During my last two walks around Edinburgh I have started seeing some early signs of the changing season - and it's really put a spring in my step.

Perhaps I'm also in a particularly good mood as it's my birthday this week.

So as a little birthday special I wanted to tell you about a couple of whiskies that I've particularly enjoyed during my 29th year here on earth. Maybe these recommendations could be helpful if you are looking for a whisky to gift someone with an upcoming birthday or to add a bottle to your own shelves?

First up we have Table Whisky which is a single grain whisky from The Leith Export Co, which has been matured in new oak and also sherry casks. For those of you not familiar with grain whisky, it's a type of whisky which can be distilled in either pot stills or column stills (single malt is only made in pot stills in Scotland) and it can also be made from other cereals like corn or wheat, not just barley. This is a whisky I wish I could always have in my house. I'm already a fan of a good grain whisky and this one is rich in flavour, sweet and really approachable. A lovely whisky to enjoy after dinner or after climbing a mountain top - trust me, I've tried it both ways.

© Herald Scotland