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I finally sat down to put the GlenAllachie Sinteis releases through their paces, and what I found was a fascinating study in how two different virgin oaks can shape a whisky in completely different directions. Sinteis means synthesis in Scots Gaelic, and that name could not be more fitting. Both Billy Walker and I share a genuine passion for virgin oak whiskies, so getting to taste these side by side was a real treat, even if my train back from London had thrown my entire evening into chaos. The Part Two release, a 10-year-old marrying Oloroso sherry with Scottish virgin oak, is something of a passion project for Billy. Now, Scottish virgin oak has a chequered history. Glengoyne tried it on a 16-year-old small batch over a decade ago, and I have to say, that was a pretty unpleasant bottle. This, though, is a different beast entirely. The nose is all buttery, brown sugar pastry notes, sweet licorice, and red hot cinnamon, before this wonderfully specific note of cola syrup emerges. Anyone who has worked behind a bar and had to change the postmix gun will know exactly what I mean. On the palate it turns earthier and more herbal, drifting between oregano, mint, angelica root and lemongrass, with chewy, barky woods on the finish. Cherry cola in a French patisserie, essentially. The Part Three release, a 12-year-old built on French virgin oak and Oloroso, is the newest of the pair. Billy told me something interesting during one of our nerdy cask conversations: he believes Scottish and French virgin oak share a very similar spice profile. You can taste the family resemblance. The nose here is sweeter and even more decadent, all custard, hot cross buns, royal icing, almond and a lovely mocha coffee note. The palate, however, surprises you by turning drier, driven by dried citrus and these intriguing vermouth notes, both the grassy white and the tart Italian red. It finishes like the last sip of an old fashioned, all morphing bitters and sugar. Both retail at around £70, and both are genuinely worth your time. The Part Three earns a solid eight and a half from me, one of the strongest examples of that fizzy, gingery French oak character you will find. But the Part Two takes the crown with a nine. Perhaps I am a closet advocate for Scottish virgin oak after all. So which approach speaks to you, the cola syrup intrigue of the Scottish oak or the patisserie richness of the French? Let me know in the comments. To see my side-by-side tasting of The GlenAllachie Sinteis whiskies, check out my YouTube video.

Even with some big stories of closures and external purchases running through Irish whiskey distilleries, it is still an immensely strong category in the world of whiskey. Whether you are looking for newer brands or something a little unusual from a more famous location, Ireland has a wealth of options to choose from, with plenty of scope for experimentation. The list below includes a few select choices that we love the sound of, and in some cases have even purchased full bottles for personal enjoyment. Check it out and let us know which one you like the sound of most. Jameson Distillers Batch Single Pot Still, 46%, £60 / $50 – Spirits Gold 2026, 96 points This is a bottle that I have bought and enjoyed over the last few months, so I was quite happy to see it pick up such a prestigious award. It is a classic single pot still style from Midleton Distillers, matured in five different cask types. The key ones are ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, so nothing too unusual there. Then it gets fun, with three separate fresh oak influences: American, Spanish, and Irish virgin oak. This is a bottle that needs some time after opening to allow those cask influences to really balance out, but it is all about honeycomb, salted caramel, spicy toffee, ginger, and orange peel. A really fun, interesting release from the folks at Midleton. The Donn Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 46%, Join The Waitlist – Spirits Gold Outstanding 2026, 98 points Another release with a strong focus on unusual cask influences. Originally launched in 2023, The Donn has been a focal point of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. Alongside more traditional oak influences from ex-bourbon, ex-tawny port, and ex-Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, there is also Hungarian oak at work here. It is not stated whether this comes from ex-Hungarian wine casks, such as Tokaji, or from fresh Hungarian oak, but it is clearly providing a huge amount of flavor for those with a sweet tooth. Expect piles of dark chocolate, pecans, and maple syrup, with toasted oak and nutty dryness. It is a rather lovely expression of new Irish whiskey. McConnell’s 20 Year Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey, 51.2%, £300 / $375 – Spirits Gold 2026, 95 points The first release in the Cromac Collection from McConnell’s, this is one of the creamiest, sweetest older single malts I have ever had the joy of trying. McConnell’s has always impressed me with its core releases, but that consistency of quality has also shone through in its older bottlings. This whiskey spends 19 years in ex-bourbon casks before being moved into ex-tawny port casks, and you can really feel the quality of those woods. This is not an old release being sold simply because of its age. It is genuinely wonderful. It is full of creamy white chocolate and fresh raspberry, while the palate develops further with baked plums, spiced red apple, and notes of lemon and black pepper. The finish is massive, with a long, brooding profile that moves between grapefruit and lime juice before returning to more of that luscious toffee and white chocolate style. Limerick Spirits The Society Cask Select Single Malt, 57.5%, £110 / $150 – Spirit Silver 2026, 94 points This is a nine-year-old single malt whiskey, distilled in 2016 and matured in ex-bourbon casks for all of those wonderful foundation flavors of honey, toffee, and vanilla. It is then moved into ex-Marsala wine casks. Marsala is an excellent sweet wine from Sicily, and it brings deeper, nuttier, more syrupy notes to add to that ex-bourbon foundation. Being bottled at cask strength allows this whiskey to really show off all of its qualities. If you are into interesting casks from an interesting company, do check out the Limerick Spirits website for all of its fun offerings. Killowen Distillery Signature Rum & Raisin Peated Single Malt, 55%, £51 / $63 – Spirit Silver 2026, 94 points A fully peated Irish single malt matured in ex-dark rum and ex-Pedro Ximénez casks, bottled at 55% ABV. How can you say no to this? Killowen has become known for making incredible quality Irish whiskeys, as well as naming them after the flavor profiles found within the bottle. This is loaded with hefty smokiness, followed by rich aromas of toasted coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, and tropical fruits. It is an excellent, fun bottle of single malt that showcases exactly what kind of quality distilling is happening in Northern Ireland. This is somewhere you all need to visit and taste the liquids for yourselves. Teeling Crystal Single Malt, 46%, £68 / $90 – Spirit Silver 2026, 93 points To create crystal malt, you have to use a process called stewing. This starts like other barley germination processes, but once the barley has germinated, it is heated in a closed environment, essentially mashing the starches in the barley. The sugars created during that process are then caramelized by the heated environment. The use of heat and time helps create a specific flavor and profile. So, the whiskey. Teeling is no stranger to experimentation, and here we have distillers’ barley and crystal malt, dual fermentation with distillers’ yeast and white wine yeast, triple distillation, and maturation solely in fresh American oak. Now breathe. There are massive, crisp aromas of green apple and pear on the nose, with a super buttery taste profile of honey and toffee. The finish is very, very long, with notes of spiced pineapple, cinnamon, and caramel. An incredible bottle of whiskey. Beara Distillery Black Cask Blended, 40%, £35 / $45 – Spirit Bronze 2026, 89 points This is a somewhat classic Irish blended whiskey, but with one important and deliberate variation. It is a combination of Irish single malt whiskeys and Irish grain whiskeys, with the grain element matured in extra-char ex-bourbon casks. This gives the overall whiskey a creamier, richer feel. It is then watered down with Caha Mountain spring water and bottled. The result has excellent aromas of ginger, chocolate, and fresh melon, with a taste and finish of toasted oak, sweet caramel, and soft, gentle spices. An excellent example of new, affordable Irish whiskey. Irish Whiskey Still Has Plenty To Say Irish whiskey is not going anywhere, even with a downturn in the global market. It remains a massive, dense force in the whiskey world, with the ability to be a little more flexible in what it can release and how it can be matured. Check out the experiments, check out the newer distilleries, and, of course, make sure you still get involved with the bigger distilleries to see what the wider world is buying.

Pursuit Spirits, the independent whiskey blender founded by the creators of the Bourbon Pursuit podcast, has officially joined the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The move makes the brand’s Louisville home on Whiskey Row an official destination for bourbon enthusiasts, co-founders Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil confirmed on 7 July 2026. The inclusion marks a full-circle moment for the founders. Eleven years ago, in April 2015, Coleman and Cecil recorded Episode #8 of Bourbon Pursuit. They interviewed Adam Johnson of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The pair have since recorded more than 1,200 episodes. Their media venture has now transitioned into a physical destination. Pursuit Spirits does not operate a traditional distillery. Instead, the brand sources award-winning bourbon and rye barrels from multiple distilleries across the country to create small-batch expressions. Its Whiskey Row experience skips the conventional “51% corn tour” to focus on barrel maturation and blending. Visitors can book “The Whole Shebang!”, an interactive experience where guests conduct a private barrel selection, use a whiskey thief to fill their bottle, and label their own bottle of Pursuit United on a bottling line. Guests can also visit Trial + Error, a vintage-inspired basement cocktail lounge offering experimental cocktails and rare whiskey flights dating back to the brand’s 2018 debut. “Pursuit Spirits is a great example of the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that continues to propel Kentucky’s signature Bourbon industry,” said Eric Gregory, president of the KDA. “We are proud to welcome them to the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail experience and look forward to introducing visitors from around the world to their distinctive perspective, passion for whiskey, and commitment to our timeless craft.” Since opening in August 2025, the venue has booked 3,244 guests, including over 1,500 who completed “The Whole Shebang”. It has served 4,163 signature Old Fashioneds at Trial + Error. To support expansion into six new markets, the company has added 12 new positions across its hospitality and operations teams. “This is only the beginning,” said Coleman, co-founder and COO of Pursuit Spirits. “We created Bourbon Pursuit and Pursuit Spirits to break the traditional whiskey mold. Joining the Kentucky Bourbon Trail allows us to scale that mission, offering visitors the absolute best experience on the Trail.”

American whiskey isn’t just about bourbon and rye anymore, although we will be talking about quite a few of them in this article. The variety and style within American whiskey can be truly baffling, and while American single malt is still a newly defined category, it offers a real point of difference for whiskey drinkers. Below is a personal selection of high-scoring American whiskeys from the IWSC 2026 that, if I saw them on the shelf, would be an instant buy. Warfield Gently Peated American Single Malt, 50%, $64.99 / £48 – Spirit Gold, 97 points This distillery is speaking my language when it comes to balance and flavor. Combining locally grown Idaho barley with heavily peated barley imported from Scotland, the final result isn’t an ashtray bomb soaked in iodine. Instead, it is a restrained and balanced flavor profile that should remind you of the subtle smokiness found in some Scottish whiskeys, alongside Warfield’s own distillery character of chocolate, honey, and sweet malted barley. If I could get my hands on this in the UK, it would be an instant buy. For the time being, a small sample will have to do. Redemption Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 46%, $33 / £26 – Spirit Gold, 95 points A bourbon with a 21% rye kick behind it, what more could you want? If aromas and flavors of honey, vanilla, and coconut excite you, but you also want a hefty hit of lemon, cinnamon, and allspice in the background, then this is the bourbon for you. My first experience of Redemption bourbon was in a wonderful whiskey bar in Liverpool called Van Winkle. As a fan of Wild Turkey and Old Grand-Dad, this made total sense to me. Even though it is hard to find in the UK, and trying to beat Wild Turkey on price is a dangerous game, if I could have this as a house pour it would be a top contender. Belle Meade Bourbon Cask Strength Reserve, 54.2%, $58.99 / £45 – Spirit Gold, 95 points A rather potent blend of straight bourbon whiskeys, put together by the folks at Belle Meade, but this time at cask strength. This is another high-rye bourbon, with only five barrels per batch and ages ranging from 7 to 11 years old across the different releases. What I’ve tried from Belle Meade in the past has always leaned on stone fruits, notably some wonderful cherry notes, as well as a bucket full of caramel. That is also the case with the cask strength variation. It is heavy and dense with cherries and cherry liqueur, with loads of vanilla, caramel, and toffee. Honestly, it reminds me of the smell of a Snickers chocolate bar. O.H. Ingram Flagship Bourbon Batch 5, 58.25%, $79.99 / £60 – Spirit Gold, 95 points A blend of only eight high-rye bourbon barrels, with a mash bill of 36% rye, 60% corn, and 4% malted barley. This brand was something I hadn’t come across before, so when someone handed me a sample of this, I have to say it really struck a chord. This is one of the richest and most decadent bottles of bourbon I’ve tried in a long time. It is heavy with freshly baked apple pie, thick vanilla ice cream, butterscotch, and caramelized brown sugar. The palate is dense and rich, with milk chocolate and more butterscotch, while the rye comes across as a nice earthy contrast to the creaminess. The finish is all cinnamon, buttery pastry, more caramelized sugar, and Irish coffee. Simply wonderful. Smokeye Hill 5 Year Old Barrel Proof Blended Rye Whiskey, 65.6%, $99 / £74 – Spirit Gold, 95 points Variety of influence is what this blended rye is all about. Putting the absolutely massive ABV to one side, we have a distillate aged in regular-sized and slightly smaller new American oak barrels, with multiple different char levels involved. Aged for at least five years and bottled at 65.6% ABV, this is an exemplary style of blended rye whiskey. The nose is like rye meets sherry: lots of nutty sweetness, with lemon oil and date notes, along with some excellent nutmeg. The palate is bold and sweet, with melted toffee, honey, and baked lemons, all backed up by a decent crack of black pepper. The finish is rich with more honey, freshly cut oak, Earl Grey tea, and gentle spiciness. A must-find if you can. Frey Ranch Distillery Farm Strength Uncut 6 Year Old Rye Whiskey, 60%+, $79.99 / £60 – Spirit Silver, 93 points A 100% winter cereal rye bottled at 60% ABV or above, this is what Frey Ranch has built its reputation on, along with its wonderful bourbon releases. The bottle comes with the heaviest stopper I’ve ever held, and thankfully, the flavor backs it up. There is lots of zingy grapefruit and orange zest, with toasted nuts and whipped honey. Taste-wise, it is fully loaded with butter and spice. You get a real battle on the tongue between layered, buttered pastry notes and full-blown, dominant spiciness, which pulls through with lots of fresh oak and dark chocolate. Outstanding. Mary Dowling Winter Wheat Bourbon, 45.5%, $50 / £40 – Spirit Silver, 92 points Now, wheat is something I haven’t really spoken about much, which is odd for me, but here we are. This bourbon contains 65% corn, 25% winter wheat, and 10% malted barley, and is matured in level three charred barrels. The taste is wonderful, loaded with cherries, cocoa, toasted nuts, and sweet espresso coffee. However, the story of Mary Dowling is as interesting as the whiskey itself. She was the first female distiller to move her entire production to Mexico to evade the dry laws spreading through the country. She was targeted by the government, and her buildings were raided in Lawrenceburg, a city where she had become the wealthiest woman and one of the strongest civic leaders in the area, championing better health and welfare services. All of that while also creating a relatively unknown whiskey legacy. I feel that is something we need to change. Which IWSC 2026 American Whiskey Would You Pick? This year’s IWSC results show just how much there is to explore in American whiskey right now. Yes, bourbon and rye are still doing a lot of heavy lifting, but peated American single malt, winter wheat bourbon, farm-strength rye, and high-proof blends are all bringing something different to the table. These are the bottles that stood out to me, either because I’ve tried them, want to track them down, or think they offer something genuinely exciting. Now I want to know what you think. Which American whiskey from the IWSC 2026 would be your top pick? Let us know in the comments.

Aaron Goldfarb knows a thing or two about American whiskey. The award-winning author – and card-carrying Kentucky Colonel – has written numerous books on the subject. One of his most popular was a 2019 tome entitled Hacking Whiskey, in which he shares ingenious techniques for molding and re-shaping aged spirits to incorporate and extract novel flavors from the comfort of your home bar; a DIY exercise intended to enhance whatever was initially placed into the bottle. Of course his all-time favorite bottles are in need of no adulteration, whatsoever. And after nearly two decades in the industry Goldfarb has compiled dozens that could fall into this vaunted subcategory. Many of them are specific vintages of one-off liquids that would be more accurately labeled as “unobtainium” rather than mere bourbon or rye. Ask him to pick one to rule them all and you’d expect some degree of hesitancy. But when it comes to relatively attainable offerings – stuff that you can hope to find on the shelves of your local liquor store on any given day, he actually is quite quick to single out one selection in particular: “Is it possible Russell’s Reserve 13 is the best yearly bourbon release these days?" Goldfarb rhetorically asks himself when prodded for response. “In a world of overhyped (and overpriced) allocated whiskeys, it quietly continues to deliver, year after year. So I’d say yes.” It’s a timely reveal, considering that the label just released a 2026 iteration of the modern classic. And this is a special one: bottled in honor of master distiller Eddie Russell’s 45th anniversary with Wild Turkey, the Kentucky-based producer responsible for the liquid. Eddie first introduced the eponymous offshoot back in 2001 to honor his legendary dad, Jimmy Russell. But it wasn’t until 2021 that a 13-year variant hit shelves. The latest is a brown sugar bomb, bottled at a cask strength of 121.2 proof and -- despite the official age statement – was actually compiled from barrels between 14 and 18 years in age. “Deep and rich in flavor and aroma, this is Wild Turkey par excellence: toffee, oak, pipe smoke, leather, and a spicy finish,” says Goldfarb of the Russell’s Reserve 13 taste profile. "Non-chill filtered and barrel proof, this is a bourbon lover’s bourbon—not some luxury release meant to appeal to the masses with more money than taste. The Russell family has always made bourbon for people like them and this will forever be their crown jewel.” To clarify his first point about luxury release: this is a $200 bottle of bourbon, which comfortably qualifies it as an ultra-premium product. But it’s also one that you can usually find for close to retail price. The secondary market isn’t forcing you to drop 10x the SRP – as it does for so many of Russell’s allocated counterparts. Perhaps this boils down to a phenomenon that Goldfarb has been writing about for over a decade. While the masses see Wild Turkey as some sort of bottom-shelf label, “bourbon cognoscenti” recognize the sophisticated “funk” this special distillery brings to the bottle. Indeed, for three generations (and for over 70 years) the Russell family has been crafting whiskey in a special way. To underscore the point, the brand unveiled a short film on the subject this June, coinciding with its latest bourbon release. You can watch it below. But you also don’t have to take the company’s own word for it. Trust an expert instead. As Goldfarb points out, Russell’s Reserve 13 isn’t just built different from the rest – it’s built better. Eddie, it seems, has found a way to “hack whiskey” before it even enters the bottle.

We cover a lot of Buffalo Trace whiskey releases here, and for good reason—they are often excellent and sometimes highly collectible. But Buffalo Trace has some sister distilleries that are owned by parent company Sazerac that are also worth considering, including A. Smith Bowman and Barton 1792. The latter just announced the release of two new whiskeys, and both are worth tracking down based on their uniqueness and high quality. Barton 1792, named after the year Kentucky became a state, is located in Bardstown and is part of Barton Brands, which is owned by Sazerac. The core expression is 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, and there are some other more limited expressions in the lineup as well like Full Proof, High Rye, and Port Finish. All the whiskey made at Barton has been bourbon—that is, until now, because the first new expression is 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, the very first straight rye to be included in the 1792 portfolio. According to the distillery, the whiskey is made using the same distillation and barrel-entry proof as the core bourbon, but then deviates from there. First of all, master distiller Ross Cornelissen decided to use the distillery’s bourbon yeast strain instead of a neutral yeast during fermentation to add more fruit flavors to the whiskey. Also, the rye grain, which is obviously a majority of the mashbill (the exact proportions are not revealed), was sourced from Canada, Europe, and the northern U.S. The Canadian rye is said to contribute floral notes, the American rye provides peppery spice, and the European rye adds bready, herbal depth. The whiskey was bottled at 100 proof, which Cornelissen believed provided the most balance. “Many seasoned bourbon drinkers turn to rye when they’re ready to explore something new,” he said in a statement. “With 1792 Bourbon’s high-rye mash bill, this release offers fans a familiar spice profile with a recognizable rye character.” We got to sample the whiskey and it is very good, with just enough spice and fruit to make it recognizable as a rye, but ample notes of oak, vanilla, and maple to balance out those sharper flavors. The second new whiskey is called 1792 XV, the oldest age statement bourbon in the lineup at 15 years old, and the first cask-strength expression bottled at 124.2 proof. “This release wasn’t part of a planned experiment in barrel-proof whiskey,” said Cornelissen. “We noticed that several of our oldest barrels were developing extraordinary characteristics, with flavors and nuances that stood out on their own. That discovery inspired us to do something special, which ultimately led to the creation of XV.” This is a strong bourbon that doesn’t drink overly hot, and there are nice notes of licorice, grape soda, dark chocolate, toasted peanuts, and caramel sundae on the palate. 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (SRP $40) is available now in select markets around the country, while 1792 XV (SRP $250) is limited to global travel retail and can be found at airports like L.A.X., S.F.O., and South Korea’s Incheon International Airport (I.C.N.).

Why imported Scotch whisky is becoming cheaper in India What's the story The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will come into effect on July 15, and one of its major impacts will be on the price of imported Scotch whisky and gin in India. The FTA proposes a phased reduction in import duties on these beverages. Initially, the import duty would be halved from the current 150% to 75%, and further reduced to 40% by the end of the 10th year. Price impact Final retail price will not be equal to import duty-cut Despite the significant cut in import duty, consumers shouldn't expect an equal percentage drop in prices. Paul P John, Chairman of John Distilleries, explained that import duty is just one component of the final retail price. Other costs such as state excise duties, VAT, distributor and retailer margins as well as logistics and marketing expenses contribute significantly to what consumers ultimately pay. Savings forecast Initial benefit of 5-10% expected John estimated that consumers could see an initial retail benefit of around 5-10%, which could translate into a few hundred rupees per bottle. However, this would depend on the state of residence and the type of Scotch purchased. In high-tax states like Maharashtra, customs duty makes up only 10-15% of the final retail price, thus limiting the impact of lower tariffs. Tariff impact Impact varies across different states In states with relatively lower taxes such as Haryana, prices could fall by up to 15%. However, in states where government corporations control liquor distribution such as Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the reduction may not immediately reach consumers. This is because state authorities could absorb the duty savings instead of passing them on to consumers. Beneficiary brands Bottled-in-origin Scotch whiskies likely to benefit the most Bottled-in-origin (BIO) Scotch whiskies are likely to benefit the most from this deal. These are fully distilled, aged, labeled, and bottled in Scotland before being imported into India. John said, "Bottled-in-origin imported Scotch will see some impact," but bulk-imported and bottled-in-India Scotch may not see as much of a benefit. He also hinted at more low-end Scotch entrants into India with prices in the Bottled in India range. Brand impact Popular Scotch brands that could get cheaper in India soon Popular Scotch brands like Johnnie Walker Black Label Aged 12 Years Blended Scotch Whisky and Chivas Regal 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, currently priced at ₹3,888 for a 750ml bottle, could see their prices drop to ₹3,499-₹3,694 after a 5-10% reduction. Similarly, Ballantine's Finest Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml), now costing around ₹2,634 could go down to ₹2,502-₹2,371 in India.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery has released Aberfeldy 24-Year-Old White Port Double Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky, a limited-edition expression finished in White Port casks. The whisky is available exclusively from the distillery and its online store from July 7, 2026, priced at £350 (US$450). The bottling is the latest addition to the distillery’s Exceptional Cask Series. Only 252 bottles have been produced. The release finishes Aberfeldy’s signature honeyed style in carefully selected White Port casks sourced from Portugal’s Douro Valley. Aberfeldy has produced whisky in Highland Perthshire since 1898. According to the official notes from the brand, the whisky offers flavors of ripe orchard fruits, honeyed apricots, citrus blossom and vanilla. Stephanie Macleod, malt master at Aberfeldy, said the decision to use White Port casks was “a deliberate one.” “Port cask maturation is often known for bringing a lively character to whisky, but White Port offers something particularly fresh and vibrant,” Macleod said. “Rich in notes of citrus peel, stone fruits and delicate nuttiness, the casks complement rather than overpower Aberfeldy’s signature honeyed style, creating an expression that feels bright, elegant and perfectly suited to the season.” Macleod added that the team “wanted to capture something unexpected.” “[It is] a whisky that retains the depth and refinement expected of a 24-Year-Old Single Malt while introducing a brighter, more expressive character through the White Port finish,” she said. “It is a whisky that transports you, offering a taste of Portugal through the lens of Aberfeldy craftsmanship.” The launch builds on the distillery’s ongoing exploration of wine cask finishing. Previous expressions in the range have used Tuscan red wine casks and Cadillac French wine casks to enhance the distillery’s honeyed character. Aberfeldy is the spiritual home of the Dewar’s blended Scotch whisky brand, which is owned by Bacardi. Visitors to the distillery can sample drams at the Distillery Bar throughout the summer for £13 (US$17). The distillery reopened its visitor center following a multi-million-pound refurbishment in 2021, adding tasting experiences and a redesigned brand home.

The company behind Crown Royal whisky says it has agreed to sell its bottling plant in southern Ontario. A spokesperson for Diageo says in a statement that while the agreement for the Amherstburg facility has been signed, details about its buyer won't be shared. The statement says more information will be shared "when appropriate." The plant, in a historic town along the Canada-U.S. border, was put up for sale after Diageo announced its closure, effectively cutting about 200 jobs. Ontario Premier Doug Ford in response threatened to pull Crown Royal from liquor store shelves, though he backed down after Diageo agreed to $23 million in spending in the province. Diageo has bottling and distillation facilities in Manitoba and Quebec, and has said its Crown Royal products will still be mashed, distilled and aged at Canadian facilities. This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 6, 2026. Aaron Sousa, The Canadian Press

Awards lists are always useful, but they become much more interesting when the winning bottles are actually affordable. Scotch whisky can get expensive very quickly, especially when medals, high scores, and limited releases are involved, so it is worth paying attention to the bottles that performed well without pushing into luxury pricing. This year’s International Wine & Spirit Competition included a strong mix of established distilleries, newer releases, and independent brands. The list below focuses on Scotch whiskies that offer a genuine sense of value, whether that means an accessible way into a classic distillery style, an interesting cask influence, or a bottle from a producer that is making its way back onto the market. Bowmore 9 Year Old, 40%, £26 / $32 – Spirit Gold Outstanding 2026, 98 points It has been a huge year for Bowmore. Its 21 Year Old release picked up a major award earlier in the year, and now one of its youngest expressions is picking up medals too. The whisky follows a classic Bowmore cask program, with most of the liquid matured in ex-bourbon casks, alongside some ex-European oak sherry casks in the vatting. It is a gently peated, sweet, orchard fruit-driven single malt, with wonderfully malty and honeyed notes running through the flavor. Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 12 Year Old, 46%, £36 / $44 – Spirit Gold 2026, 96 points A personal favorite of mine. The whisky is named after one of the islands within Loch Lomond and is the only core release from the distillery that does not contain any peated whisky at all. All of this whisky is distilled in Loch Lomond’s straight-neck pot stills and, as mentioned, is fully unpeated. The nose is full of rich tropical fruits, including melon and guava, while the palate brings gentle spice and lots of warm honey notes. The finish rounds things out with more of those sweet fruits and a soft oak influence. Glenmorangie 14 Year Old Quinta Ruban, 46%, £38 / $48 – Spirit Gold 2026, 96 points A classic. This was one of the first bottles of whisky I ever purchased, and the color of the liquid is still so captivating, with its soft pink hue. Ex-bourbon matured Glenmorangie is an incredible foundation for just about anything. The liquid is then finished in ex-ruby port casks for four years, adding layers of orange, dark chocolate, soft red fruits, sticky honey, and a warm, gentle finish with classic Glenmorangie coconut and toffee notes. Aberlour 12 Year Old Double Cask, 40%, £43 / $55 – Spirit Gold 2026, 95 points I feel as if I do not talk about Aberlour enough, and that needs to change. Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, this marriage of cask types gives you that classic, well-rounded Speyside feel. It is full of rich fruits, spiced milk chocolate, red grapes, and toffee. A wonderful single malt Scotch whisky that is often hidden in the shadows of some of its towering neighbors. Glen Moray Forbidden Fruit, 40%, £36 / $44 – Spirit Gold 2026, 95 points A similar story to the Aberlour above, but instead of sherry influence, this release brings in ex-Calvados casks, which are becoming a more common sight at several distilleries around the world. Glen Moray is well known for its super light, clean style of whisky, and it takes to most cask types very well. We reviewed this release a while back, and it is a perfect summertime whisky. It is apples, apples, and more apples. Crisp, sweet, and a great mixing whisky. Nobel Rebel Orchard Outburst, 46%, £39 / $49 – Spirit Gold 2026, 95 points An incredible combination of Scotch whiskies focused on bright, crisp, green flavors of pears, apples, and grapes. Put together by Michael Henry and using some white wine yeast, Orchard Outburst manages to be experimental, affordable, interesting, and very accessible when it comes to how you might want to drink it. Another wonderful release from the folks at Loch Lomond. Tormore 12 Year Old, 46%, £54 / $67 – Spirit Gold 2026, 95 points I am writing this in the middle of a heat wave in the UK, and this release sounds like the most refreshing cure for the remarkable heat. Mostly matured in ex-bourbon casks, with some other cask influences involved, Tormore’s fruit-driven character really comes to life in this bottle. It is full of peach, green apple, elderflower, and some warming, slightly spicier notes of nutmeg and rum-laced fudge. Much like Scapa, it is wonderful to see Tormore back and taking up some market space for those interested in seeing how this distillery re-establishes itself in the modern world. Affordable Scotch Still Has Plenty To Offer These whiskies show that you do not need to spend a fortune to find classic Scotch flavor profiles, or to explore newer, more playful ones. The inclusion of a Calvados-influenced Glen Moray and the new flagship release from Tormore shows that interesting, fun Scotch whisky is still being released at approachable prices. Fair play, too, to some of the bigger, more classical brands, which have shown that they can still pull their weight when it comes to quality and value.

The India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to come into effect on 15 July. One of the biggest takeaways for Indian consumers is the gradual reduction in prices of imported Scotch whisky and gin. Under the agreement, import tariffs on whisky and gin will be cut from the current 150% to 75% initially, then to 40% by the 10th year of the deal. However, consumers should not expect prices to fall by the same percentage as the reduction in import duty. According to Paul P John, Chairman, John Distilleries, import duty is only one part of the final retail price. Other costs, such as state excise duties, VAT, distributor and retailer margins, logistics, packaging and marketing, make up a much larger share of what consumers ultimately pay. As a result, the benefits of lower tariffs are likely to be gradual and will vary across states. The actual savings will depend on where you live and the type of Scotch you buy. John says, “Consumers might see an initial retail benefit of roughly 5–10%, which may translate into a few hundred rupees per bottle. This will also depend on the state where the consumer is located.” He explains that in high-tax states such as Maharashtra, customs duty accounts for only 10-15% of the final retail price, limiting the impact of lower tariffs. Consumers there may see price cuts of around 5%, provided importers pass on the benefit. In states with relatively lower taxes, such as Haryana, prices could fall by as much as 15%. However, in states where government corporations control liquor distribution, such as Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the reduction may not immediately reach consumers as state authorities could absorb the duty savings instead. The biggest beneficiaries are expected to be bottled-in-origin (BIO) Scotch whiskies, which are those fully distilled, aged, labelled and bottled in Scotland before being imported into India. John highlighted that, “Bottled-in-origin imported Scotch will see some impact, while bulk-imported and bottled-in-India Scotch is likely to see more muted benefits. We should see more low-end Scotch entrants into India with prices in the Bottled in India Scotch range.” For example, a 750 ml bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label Aged 12 Years Blended Scotch Whisky and a 750 ml bottle of Chivas Regal 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky are both currently priced at ₹3,888. Their prices could fall to ₹ 3,499– ₹ 3,694 after a 5–10% reduction, resulting in savings of ₹194– ₹389 per bottle. Similarly, Ballantine's Finest Blended Scotch Whisky (750 ml), currently priced at around ₹2,634, could fall to ₹2,502– ₹2,371 in India. A 750 ml bottle of Monkey Shoulder The Original Batch 27 Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, currently priced at ₹4,390, could decline to ₹4,171– ₹3,951. Meanwhile, Lagavulin 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750 ml), priced at ₹11,413, could become available for around ₹10,842– ₹10,272. Source: Wine-Searcher; Prices as of June 26, 2026. Actual prices may vary. Consumers may have to wait before seeing cheaper bottles on store shelves. John mentioned, “Six months to a year after the implementation, depending on when the changes are made and the state in question. Importers will need to clear old inventories, rebuild RTM costs and register the new MRPs in the state. The benefits will be visible to consumers only after this.” Apart from lower prices, consumers could also benefit from greater choice. More Scotch brands, especially in the affordable premium segment, could enter the Indian market as imports become more viable. John believes the agreement will ultimately benefit both consumers and the domestic industry. “We may see a bigger participation from UK-based companies in India, maybe with some local bottling too. The trend of premiumization will continue, and while the market will open to more foreign participation, the Indian companies offering quality will also gain more recognition by comparison with a wider base,” he concluded. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are solely those of the expert and not those of Mint. Sheetal Goel is a Content Producer at Livemint, where she covers corporate developments, personal finance, business trends, markets, and SEBI-related updates. She focuses on simplifying complex financial concepts and presenting them in a clear, reader-friendly manner, thereby helping audiences better understand investment trends, personal finance, and market developments. Her writing focuses on making finance more accessible to everyday readers while maintaining clarity, accuracy, and relevance. <br><br> She holds a degree in Economics (Hons.) along with an MBA in Finance, which has helped her develop a strong foundation in financial analysis, market understanding, and business reporting. Before joining journalism, she worked with finance and broking firms, where she closely followed market developments, investment strategies, and evolving industry trends. This practical exposure strengthened her understanding of financial markets. She has also written content across multiple formats and platforms, including YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. <br><br> Over time, she has developed expertise in covering market-linked stories, investor-focused topics, and regulatory updates in a simplified yet informative style. 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The International Whisky Competition has just announced its 2026 results, judging entries blind on a 100-point scale and awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category. Indian whisky has its own set of categories here, and today we are going to look at the two producers that swept the awards. Two producers account for all six of the top placements. Indri, made by Piccadily Distilleries in Haryana, took the three single malt spots, while Pernod Ricard’s Seagram’s brands took the three blended spots. The two groups represent different approaches to Indian whisky, demonstrating that, even as Indian single malts dominate headlines and competitions, blends still have something to offer. Indri Diwali Collector’s Edition 2025 Award: Best Indian Whisky, 1st Place, Best Single Malt Indian Whisky, 1st Place, 93.53 points Tasting Notes: Peat smoke, barley, earthy notes, nuttiness, raisins, dates, oak, floral notes Find Your Next Bottle: £350 / $660 / ₹23,451 Indri releases a Diwali Collector’s Edition each year to mark the festival, and the 2025 bottling was finished in Marsala wine casks sourced from Sicily. It is made by Piccadily Distilleries at their distillery in Indri, a village in the Karnal district of Haryana, using indigenous six-row Indian barley and copper pot stills. Master Blender Surrinder Kumar, who previously worked at Amrut, oversees the range. This single malt whisky was bottled at 58.5% ABV, without chill filtration or added color. The release is limited and individually numbered, with label artwork by designer Krsnaa Mehta. In the UK, 180 bottles were released at around £250, and it also won Best Special Edition Design at the World Whiskies Awards 2026. Indri Dru Cask Strength Single Malt Indian Whisky Award: Best Indian Whisky, 2nd Place, Best Single Malt Indian Whisky, 2nd Place, 90.87 points Tasting Notes: Fruit basket, vanilla, citrus, spice, chocolate, honey Find Your Next Bottle: £67 / $90 Dru comes from the same distillery in Haryana, and its name is Sanskrit for wood. This one was matured entirely in ex-bourbon barrels and bottled at cask strength, 57.2% ABV, without chill filtration or added color. Like the rest of the Indri range, it is made from indigenous six-row Indian barley and distilled in copper pot stills. One quirk worth mentioning is that Dru was made for export markets and is not sold in India, so drinkers in the UK and US have easier access to it than those closer to where it is produced. It carries no age statement. Indri Agneya Single Malt Indian Whisky Award: Best Indian Whisky, 3rd Place, Best Single Malt Indian Whisky, 3rd Place, 89.70 points Tasting Notes: Chocolate, vanilla, spice, dried apple, apricot, fruit jam, peat dust, banana, toffee, melon, salt Find Your Next Bottle: £45 / $70 Agneya, whose name comes from the Sanskrit word for “belonging to fire,” is Indri’s lightly peated single malt and a permanent part of the range rather than a limited run, which sets it apart from the two bottles above. It was matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and bottled at 46% ABV, without chill filtration or added color. As with the rest of the range, it comes from Piccadily’s distillery in Indri, Haryana, and is made from indigenous six-row Indian barley. Of the three Indri whiskies here, Agneya is the easiest to find abroad, and it has sold across a number of export markets. It does, however, seem difficult to find in India. Seagram’s Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection Award: Best Blended Indian Whisky, 1st Place, 85.87 points Tasting Notes: Fruit, vanilla, coconut, butterscotch, caramel, oak, nuts, spice Find Your Next Bottle: ₹400 The three blended winners work differently from the Indri single malts above them. Rather than being distilled entirely from malted barley at one distillery, they are Indian blended whiskies that combine imported Scotch malt with Indian grain spirit, a style that reflects how a large share of the Indian whisky market is built. Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection sits at the top of that group. Pernod Ricard launched it in December 2011, and at the time it was the most expensive whisky produced in India. According to Pernod Ricard, it blends Scotch malts matured through a Solera process with Indian grain spirit, with the Scotch component coming from its Chivas Brothers business in Scotland. It is bottled at 42.8% ABV and is sold mainly within India. Seagram’s Oaken Glow Award: Best Blended Indian Whisky, 2nd Place, 85.03 points Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, wood, oak, spice Find Your Next Bottle: ₹300 Oaken Glow is another Pernod Ricard India blend of Scotch malt and Indian grain spirit, and it is built around a smoky character. The Scotch malt component reportedly comes from the Dalmunach Distillery on the River Spey in Scotland, which supplies the peated element, according to various retail listings. The whisky is blended and bottled in India. It is bottled at 42.8% ABV. This is a domestic Indian release aimed at the local market rather than an export product, and it has previously picked up medals at the London Spirits Competition. It sits in a more affordable tier than the Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection above it. Seagram’s Royal Stag Double Dark Peaty Whisky Award: Best Blended Indian Whisky, 3rd Place Tasting Notes: Smoke, peat, toffee, dark chocolate, nuts, spice Find Your Next Bottle: ₹800 Royal Stag Double Dark Peaty is the newest of the six, launched by Pernod Ricard India in August 2024 as an extension of Royal Stag, one of the company’s core Indian whisky brands. It was rolled out in stages across states including Maharashtra, Assam, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Like the other two blends here, it pairs Scotch malt with Indian grain spirit, and Pernod Ricard describes it as using double-distilled Scotch malts matured in dark charred American and European oak barrels, along with peated malt. Unlike the other five whiskies, the IWC did not publish a point score for this one, so its third-place finish stands without a number attached until the IWC updates the score. It is sold within India. Two Producers Dominate The 2026 results split cleanly into two stories. On the single malt side, Indri took all three places, with the Diwali Collector’s Edition 2025, Dru, and Agneya showing what Piccadily’s distillery in Haryana can do across limited, cask-strength, and peated styles. On the blended side, Pernod Ricard’s Seagram’s brands filled every spot, drawing on imported Scotch malt and Indian grain spirit at a range of price points. It is interesting that just two producers account for all six placements, with familiar names like Amrut and Paul John absent from these particular results. Indian whisky is making a splash, well and truly, though these categories rest on a narrow base at the International Whisky Competition for now. Have you tried any of these six? Are there any you’d like to get your hands on, and what do you make of the awards? Let us know in the comments.

2026-07-07 Bruichladdich, the Islay distillery known for challenging Scotch whisky conventions, is putting fresh attention on The Classic Laddie, its unpeated single malt presented in a bright turquoise bottle and marketed as a counterpoint to the island’s long association with smoky, heavily peated styles. The push comes as the Scotch industry continues to balance tradition with changing consumer tastes, especially among drinkers drawn to lighter flavor profiles, modern packaging and greater transparency about production. Bruichladdich, based on the Hebridean island of Islay off Scotland’s west coast, has built much of its identity around that shift. The distillery says The Classic Laddie is designed to show another side of Islay, one centered on floral, citrus and maritime notes rather than peat smoke. That message runs against one of the strongest stereotypes in Scotch. Islay has for decades been closely tied to some of the world’s most recognizable peated whiskies, with aromas often described as smoky, medicinal or sea-swept. Bruichladdich has long produced peated expressions under other labels, but The Classic Laddie has become its flagship argument that the island’s character cannot be reduced to smoke alone. The whisky is also being promoted through visual design. Instead of the dark glass and traditional labeling common in Scotch, The Classic Laddie is sold in a minimalist turquoise bottle that stands out on retail shelves and back bars. In a category where heritage cues often dominate branding, the bottle has become one of the product’s main identifiers. Bruichladdich is also emphasizing what it does not add to the whisky. The distillery says The Classic Laddie contains no caramel coloring, known in the industry as E150a, which is widely used by many producers to standardize color from batch to batch. According to the company, the whisky’s golden hue comes only from maturation in oak casks. That claim fits a broader movement among premium spirits brands to highlight natural color and minimal intervention as marks of authenticity. A second part of the strategy is traceability. Each bottle carries a code on the back label that consumers can enter on the brand’s website to see details about that specific batch. Bruichladdich says the information includes barley origin, cask types used in maturation and the year of distillation. In an industry where blending formulas and sourcing details are often treated as proprietary, that level of disclosure remains unusual. The distillery presents that openness as part of its wider identity. Founded in 1881 and revived in 2000 after a period of closure, Bruichladdich describes itself as a progressive producer rooted in Islay while willing to depart from established Scotch norms. The company has said it uses 100% Scottish barley and has made transparency and sustainability central themes in its public messaging. It has also pointed to its B Corp certification as evidence of those commitments. The renewed focus on The Classic Laddie also reflects how whisky producers are trying to reach newer audiences without abandoning core drinkers. Unpeated single malts have gained traction with consumers who may find heavily smoky whiskies difficult at first but still want an entry point into Scotch with regional identity and production credibility. Bartenders have also increasingly used lighter single malts in highballs and other simple serves that emphasize freshness over intensity. In Spain and Portugal, where Bruichladdich is represented by Amer Global Brands, that positioning is being tied to lifestyle marketing as much as tasting notes. Amer Global Brands, a family-owned drinks company active across Iberia for more than three decades, handles a portfolio that includes both owned labels and international spirits brands. Its distribution spans on-trade accounts such as hotels, restaurants and bars, as well as off-trade retail channels. For Bruichladdich, the commercial case is clear: if Islay remains one of Scotch’s most powerful place names, then proving that the island can produce whiskies beyond peat broadens both its own audience and the category’s appeal. The Classic Laddie is being used as that proof point, with packaging, production claims and batch-level disclosure all serving the same argument that modern Scotch drinkers want flavor, but they also want clarity about what is in the bottle and where it came from.

Loch Lomond Whiskies, The Spirit of The Open, is giving golf fans the chance to win one of the rarest bottles in Scotch whisky while supporting The R&A Foundation and its initiatives that help deliver good for golf and through golf. Launching at The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale and continuing through the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes, ‘The Golden Ticket’ activation will give attendees the exclusive opportunity to win one of only 100 bottles of Loch Lomond 50-Year-Old single malt whisky, valued at £25,000. Available only to spectators attending either championship, Golden Tickets will be sold on-site for £10, with all proceeds donated to The R&A Foundation. Ticket holders will automatically be entered into the grand prize draw, which will run across both championships. The competition closes on 2 August, with the winner of the Loch Lomond 50-Year-Old drawn following the conclusion of the AIG Women’s Open. One of Loch Lomond Distillery’s most prestigious releases, the 50-Year-Old was distilled in the distillery’s distinctive Straight Neck Stills and matured for half a century. One of only 100 individually numbered bottles worldwide, it delivers notes of white-fleshed fruit and crisp citrus, alongside exceptional depth developed through maturation in first-fill Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks. Funds raised through The Golden Ticket campaign will directly support The R&A Foundation which helps to deliver projects that improve lives, strengthen communities, and shape the future of golf. Combining proceeds from The Open with philanthropic funding, The R&A Foundation creates lasting impact through the game, delivering not only good for golf, but good through golf. Andrew Jack, Group Marketing Director at Loch Lomond Group, said: “As The Spirit of The Open, we are always looking for new ways to create memorable experiences for fans while supporting the wider game. The Golden Ticket does exactly that, giving spectators the chance to win one of our rarest whiskies while supporting the work of The R&A Foundation. “There is something especially fitting about using a 50-year-old whisky to support work that is building opportunities for the future. This is a whisky that was laid down decades ago with care, patience and belief in what it could become. In many ways, that reflects the work of The R&A Foundation today; creating the conditions for people, communities and future generations of golfers to flourish. “The R&A Foundation’s initiatives are helping to make golf more accessible, improve wellbeing through the game and open up pathways for aspiring talent around the world. We are proud that every Golden Ticket purchased will help support that work, turning a remarkable piece of Loch Lomond’s history into something that can make a real difference to the sport’s future.” Henry Keeling, Director – Commercial Partnerships at The R&A said, “We’re grateful to Loch Lomond Whiskies for supporting The R&A Foundation through this unique prize draw. Golf has the power to bring people together, break down barriers and make a real difference in communities and support like this helps us continue that work. Together, we’re helping create lasting impact through the game, delivering not only good for golf, but good through golf.” Located within the spectator villages at both championships, The Golden Ticket activation combines the excitement of a once-in-a-lifetime whisky prize, with the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of golf.

Isle of Harris unveils signature single malt Independent Scottish distillery Isle of Harris will launch a new core expression intended to ‘support both domestic and international growth.’ Isle of Harris Whisky is a lightly peated single malt Scotch matured in ex-Bourbon and oloroso Sherry casks. It is bottled at 46% ABV and carries an RRP of £50 (US$67) per 700ml bottle. Distillery blender, Shona Macleod, said: “The combination of Bourbon and oloroso casks brings warmth, sweetness and gentle spice, while the light peat adds depth without overpowering the spirit. “Made, matured and married in the Isle of Harris, it’s a whisky designed to be enjoyed with family and friends, perfect in a highball or a simple serve, and always with a deep sense of connection to the island it comes from.” The new expression will go on sale at Isle of Harris Distillery in Tarbert on 14 July, and can be purchased from the distillery’s online shop from 22 July. It will also be available to taste and buy at the HebCelt music festival in Stornoway 15-18 July. A wider rollout across UK speciality retail and international markets, including the US, Germany and France, will commence in August 2026. Executive chairman of Isle of Harris Distillery, Ron MacEachran, said: “The Isle of Harris Single Malt Whisky emphasises how far we’ve come as a distillery over the last 10 years. From the outset, our ambition has been to create spirits that share the story of our island with the world. “Made to pour, share and savour, this new expression has been crafted with moments of relaxed enjoyment very much in mind and with a desire to introduce our spirits to a wider community. “This launch also gives us a stronger platform for long-term international growth. By aligning our whisky more closely under the Isle of Harris name, we’re building on the global recognition already established through Isle of Harris Gin and creating a clearer identity for consumers discovering the brand for the first time.” Isle of Harris Distillery began production in 2015 and released its first single malt, The Hearach, in September 2023. It marked its 10th anniversary last year with the release of The Hearach Decade Edition. The latest addition to the distillery’s core range is its first official bottling not to use ‘The Hearach’ name, a Scots Gaelic demonym for inhabitants of Harris. In June 2026, an independent report from MKA Economics showed that Isle of Harris Distillery had contributed £13.8 million (US$18.45m) to the local economy since 2015. Related news Ad Gefrin announces 'first' Northumbrian single malts

IndyBest UK and Yahoo will earn commission from purchases made via links in this article. Pricing and availability are subject to change. 12 best Scotch whiskies worth sipping this year, taste-tested by an expert The Independent and Yahoo will earn a commission from purchases made via links in this article. Pricing and availability are subject to change. Single malt Scotch whisky is arguably the most rewarding spirits category to explore, but it’s also one of the most intimidating. Once largely defined by familiar regional shorthand, from smoky Islay malts to honeyed Speyside whiskies and lighter Lowland styles, the category now feels significantly broader. There are classic age-statement bottles, experimental cask finishes, island distilleries finding their voice and independent bottlers offering characterful alternatives to the big names. There’s absolutely no shortage of choice, but not every bottle delivers. Single malt Scotch whisky is made from malted barley at one distillery in Scotland, then matured in oak casks for at least three years. Some whiskies lean into peat smoke and coastal salinity, others focus on orchard fruit, sherry cask richness, creamy vanilla or spice. The best expressions manage to balance personality with drinkability, offering enough depth to sip slowly while still feeling coherent. I’ve tested a broad selection of single malt Scotch whiskies across different regions, styles and price points. Whether you’re buying your first serious bottle or looking for something more considered to add to your home bar, these are the best Scotch single malts worth buying right now. Read more: Best gins in 2026 The best Scotch whiskies for 2026 are: - Best overall – Glen Garioch 12 Year Old: £40.95, Masterofmalt.com - Best budget buy – Auchentoshan American Oak: £35, Ocado.com - Best premium whisky – Highland Park 18 Year Old: £141, Waitrosecellar.com - Best classic peated whisky – Laphroaig 10 Year Old: £29, Waitrosecellar.com - Best experimental whisky – Fettercairn Vanguard First Release: £93.95, Masterofmalt.com Read more: Best spiced, dark and white rums Glen Garioch 12-year-old Rating: 4.5/5 Best: single malt whiskey overall Why we love it - Excellent balance of fruit, malt and oak - Great value for the strength and quality Take note - Less instantly recognisable than bigger-name malts Glen Garioch’s 12-year-old definitely outperforms plenty of more famous names. From one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, based in Oldmeldrum in the eastern Highlands, the whisky is bottled at 48 per cent ABV and matured in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, giving it more weight and structure than many similarly priced age-statement whiskies. The nose is generous but not showy, with poached pear, malted barley, heather honey and a soft floral note. On the palate, it has a satisfying texture with hints of crème brûlée, ripe banana, pear, light oak and a little dried fruit. There’s also a faint earthy edge that keeps the sweetness in check, giving the whisky more depth than its approachable profile might first suggest. Balanced, well priced and full enough to feel substantial, this is a very strong all-rounder. Key specifications - ABV: 48% - Bottle: 70cl - Style: Highland single malt - Region: Highlands Buy now £40.95, Masterofmalt.com Auchentoshan American oak Rating: 3.5/5 Best: budget single malt whiskey Why we love it - Light and approachable - Works well in highballs Take note - Lacks depth as a sipping whisky Auchentoshan’s American oak is a useful reminder that not every single malt needs to be heavy, smoky or contemplative. From the Lowland distillery known for triple distillation, this is matured entirely in first-fill American oak bourbon casks, giving it a lighter, cleaner and more approachable profile. The nose is bright and creamy, with vanilla, coconut, lemon, orange, peach and a little grassy freshness, while being soft and easy on the palate. More vanilla joins citrus peel, light toffee, orchard fruit and a crisp grapefruit edge on the finish. There’s a little sweetness, but not much weight, which makes it feel more aperitif-like than after-dinner dram. Key specifications - ABV: 40% - Bottle: 70cl - Style: Lowland single malt - Region: Lowlands Buy now £35, Ocado.com Highland Park 18-year-old Rating: 4.5/5 Best: premium whisky Why we love it - Beautiful balance of sherry richness and gentle smoke - Complex without feeling overworked Take note - Premium price point Highland Park’s 18-year-old has long been one of the benchmark premium island single malts. Made in Orkney, it combines sherry-seasoned cask richness with the distillery’s gentle heathery peat, creating a whisky that’s mature, rounded and complex. Aromas of honey, dried fruit, soft toffee and orange peel are joined by stewed fruit, dark chocolate, toffee, heather honey and a slight peatiness on the palate, which is silky and well layered. Welcome notes of coffee and spice on the finish also help prevent the sweetness from feeling too soft. An exceptionally well balanced example of premium Scotch single malt whisky. Key specifications - ABV: 43% - Bottle: 70cl - Style: Island single malt - Region: Orkney Buy now £141, Waitrosecellar.com Laphroaig 10-year-old Rating: 4.5/5 Best: classic peated whisky Why we love it - Iconic medicinal Islay profile - Huge character for the price Take note - Divisive if you dislike peat smoke One of the defining bottles of Islay whisky, Laphroaig’s 10-year-old isn’t subtle, but it’s never tried to be. Those bold medicinal, coastal and very smoky flavours can be divisive. The nose is all sea spray, iodine, smoked fish, tar, damp peat and a little orchard fruit in the background, while there’s more sweetness on the palate than the aroma suggests, with vanilla, malt, apple and lemon cutting through the smoke. It’s not as full-bodied as some higher-strength peated whiskies, and at 40 per cent ABV it can feel a touch lighter than its reputation suggests, but the flavour identity is still unmistakable. For anyone wanting a benchmark Islay malt, Laphroaig 10 is essential. Key specifications - ABV: 40% - Bottle: 70cl - Style: Peated Islay single malt - Region: Islay Buy now £29, Waitrosecellar.com The Macallan Double Cask 12-year-old Rating: 4/5 Best: luxury classic whiskey Why we love it - Smooth and polished - Classic sherry-seasoned profile Take note - Expensive for the complexity The Macallan is one of the most famous names in single malt and this 12-year-old double cask is the most accessible route into the distillery’s current house style. Matured in American and European oak sherry-seasoned casks, it’s polished, sweet and very easy to understand, with the kind of smoothness that has helped make Macallan a global luxury benchmark. The nose is soft and immediately appealing, with fudge, candied orange, lemon peel, vanilla and gentle spice which continues on the palate alongside milk chocolate, toffee, raisin, orange peel, ginger and some lovely sweet oak. Everything is cleanly delivered, with a medium finish that brings more spice and polished wood. Great for drinkers in search of a smooth, instantly recognisable gift or home bar addition. Key specifications - ABV: 40% - Bottle: 70cl - Style: Sherry-seasoned Speyside single malt - Region: Speyside Buy now £71.94, Masterofmalt.com Fettercairn Vanguard First Release Rating: 4/5 Best: experimental whisky Why we love it - Vivid tropical fruit character - Strong creative story without losing drinkability Take note - More concept-led than traditional Fettercairn’s vanguard series explores flavour through the senses, inspired by master whisky maker Gregg Glass’s synaesthetic tasting notes and the way he “tastes in colour”. The first release also connects the whisky to music, with Mogwai’s Barry Burns and Kathryn Joseph collaborating on a piece titled Lorica Pink based on those notes. The whisky itself is much more accessible than the concept might sugge

Just over two years since launching, Saltire Rare Malt has unveiled its largest investment in people to date, appointing five respected whisky professionals across North America and Asia Pacific as the award-winning independent Scotch whisky bottler accelerates its global ambitions. Joining Saltire Rare Malt are Gary Clark as National Sales Manager – USA, Jared Card and George B. Summer as Brand Ambassadors for the Mid-Atlantic and New York respectively, Laura Sol as Business Development Manager and Kotaro Kurihara as Product Marketing Specialist for Asia Pacific. Since launching in 2024, Saltire Rare Malt’s carefully curated bottlings have reached collectors and trade partners throughout Europe, North America, Asia and South Africa, reinforcing its growing reputation as one of Scotland’s most exciting independent Scotch whisky bottlers. Founded in Falkland, Fife – the birthplace of Scotch whisky more than 530 years ago – Saltire Rare Malt was born from the longstanding friendship of Nigel Heywood and Keith Rennie and a shared ambition to take exceptional Scotch whisky from the heart of Scotland to spirits lovers across the globe. Working alongside internationally acclaimed whisky experts Hans and Becky Offringa, known globally as The Whisky Couple, the business has built a reputation for exceptional single cask and limited-edition bottlings that celebrate rarity, heritage and craftsmanship. Appointed as National Sales Manager – USA, Gary Clark brings almost four decades of experience across hospitality, wholesale distribution and premium spirits. Born in Edinburgh and raised in Texas, he is an internationally recognised whisky educator, holds multiple WSET qualifications and is the author of respected publications on Japanese whisky and American whiskey. Across the United States, Jared Card and George B. Summer contribute more than 45 years of combined experience spanning supplier, distributor, retail and hospitality. Jared is widely respected for his engaging whisky education and trade tastings throughout the Mid-Atlantic, while George, founder of Guided by the Spirits, has successfully developed premium spirits brands through trade education, distributor partnerships and luxury consumer experiences. Completing the appointments, Laura Sol brings extensive expertise in brand strategy, business development and commercial partnerships, while Kotaro Kurihara, fluent in English and Japanese, will support sales and marketing activity across Japan, China, Taiwan and South Korea, helping develop one of Saltire Rare Malt’s most important international markets. Keith Rennie, co-founder of Saltire Rare Malt, said: “From day one, our ambition has been to build an international Scotch whisky company while staying true to Scotland’s whisky heritage. Just over two years on, we’re proud to see our bottlings enjoyed by collectors around the world, but we believe the best is still to come.” “Gary, Jared, George, Laura and Kotaro each bring exceptional knowledge, experience and relationships to Saltire Rare Malt. This investment gives us the platform to accelerate our global ambitions, strengthen partnerships and take our whiskies to even more whisky lovers, collectors and trade partners around the world.” From its home in Falkland, Saltire Rare Malt is combining Scotland’s whisky heritage with global ambition to build one of the country’s most exciting independent Scotch whisky businesses. The Saltire Rare Malt Collection is available online at: www.saltireraremalt.com

Table Whisky, the single grain scotch whisky from the team behind Port of Leith Distillery, is launching in a new 100ml can. The format will be available from July 3, 2026, with a recommended retail price of $8 (£6.50). The can contains the same whisky found in every Table Whisky bottle. Each 100ml can holds two 50ml serves. Table Whisky is distilled in Edinburgh, matured in a combination of virgin oak and Sherry casks, and blended in Leith. The whisky is bottled at 43% ABV. According to the brand, the new format opens up more occasions for enjoying scotch, whether traveling, gathering with friends, or “simply wherever the table happens to be.” The can can be enjoyed straight, poured over ice, or mixed into the brand’s signature Table Ginger serve with ice, ginger ale, and a wedge of lime. Vaibhav Sood, head of whisky at Port of Leith Distillery, said: “Table Whisky has always been about making scotch whisky feel uncomplicated and approachable, without compromising on flavour. We wanted to create a whisky people could enjoy however they prefer, whether that’s neat, over ice or mixed.” Sood added: “The can is simply another expression of that same idea. It’s the same whisky, just in a format that fits more occasions. Whether you’re at home or travelling further afield, you can now quite literally take the table with you.” The brand has built its reputation on positioning scotch as an everyday product rather than a spirit reserved for special occasions. The official tasting notes from the brand describe the whisky as bringing together “rich vanilla sweetness, gentle spice and a smooth, approachable character.” Port of Leith Distillery is Scotland’s first vertical distillery, located in the Leith district of Edinburgh. The distillery opened to the public in 2023 and produces both scotch whisky and fortified wines. The 100ml can will be sold through selected retailers and directly from the Port of Leith Shop. The single grain Scotch category has grown in recent years as brands seek to attract new consumers with more accessible flavor profiles and formats.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has announced the launch of a new blind tasting competition, with the aim of finding Europe’s best whisky taster. Caskmaster 2026, which is the Society’s first UK blind whisky tasting championship, follows the success of a similar competition run by SMWS Australia. Open to both members and non-members, the competition will challenge participants to identify eight whiskies from a curated line-up of nine using only their nose and palate. Four qualifying heats will take place across the Society’s UK Members’ Rooms during August and September, with the top five tasters from each heat progressing to the Grand Final at The Vaults in Leith, Edinburgh, on Thursday November 12th. Competitors will have 30 minutes to nose and taste eight carefully selected Society drams before identifying each one from a line-up of nine. No discussion or collaboration is permitted. The five highest-scoring competitors from each heat will be announced on the night and will secure their place in the Grand Final. Each £50 ticket includes the eight drams and a Society supper. There is no additional charge for finalists to attend the Grand Final, while qualifiers from the London heat will also have their travel and accommodation to Edinburgh covered. The inaugural Caskmaster champion will earn the title of Europe’s best whisky taster, alongside lifetime membership of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society and one of just 14 places on The Speysider – an exclusive four-day whisky retreat in Speyside, taking place from March 12th–15th 2027. Qualifying heats will take place at: The Vaults, Leith – Wednesday August 12th Queen Street, Edinburgh – Wednesday August 19th Bath Street, Glasgow – Wednesday August 26th 19 Greville Street, London – Wednesday September 2nd Commenting on the launch, Calum Lawson, Member Experience Manager at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, said: “At the Society, we’ve always believed that flavour should do the talking. Caskmaster puts that philosophy to the ultimate test. This is whisky as it should be – shared, debated and enjoyed – but with a healthy dose of competition thrown in. It’s a rare opportunity to test your palate against like-minded people and, for one champion, walk away with a prize that will last a lifetime.” Full details and tickets for SMWS Caskmaster 2026 are now available via: smws.com. Leave a comment

Isle of Harris unveils signature single malt Independent Scottish distillery Isle of Harris will launch a new core expression intended to ‘support both domestic and international growth.’ Isle of Harris Whisky is a lightly peated single malt Scotch matured in ex-Bourbon and oloroso Sherry casks. It is bottled at 46% ABV and carries an RRP of £50 (US$67) per 700ml bottle. Distillery blender, Shona Macleod, said: “The combination of Bourbon and oloroso casks brings warmth, sweetness and gentle spice, while the light peat adds depth without overpowering the spirit. “Made, matured and married in the Isle of Harris, it’s a whisky designed to be enjoyed with family and friends, perfect in a highball or a simple serve, and always with a deep sense of connection to the island it comes from.” The new expression will go on sale at Isle of Harris Distillery in Tarbert on 14 July, and can be purchased from the distillery’s online shop from 22 July. It will also be available to taste and buy at the HebCelt music festival in Stornoway 15-18 July. A wider rollout across UK speciality retail and international markets, including the US, Germany and France, will commence in August 2026. Executive chairman of Isle of Harris Distillery, Ron MacEachran, said: “The Isle of Harris Single Malt Whisky emphasises how far we’ve come as a distillery over the last 10 years. From the outset, our ambition has been to create spirits that share the story of our island with the world. “Made to pour, share and savour, this new expression has been crafted with moments of relaxed enjoyment very much in mind and with a desire to introduce our spirits to a wider community. “This launch also gives us a stronger platform for long-term international growth. By aligning our whisky more closely under the Isle of Harris name, we’re building on the global recognition already established through Isle of Harris Gin and creating a clearer identity for consumers discovering the brand for the first time.” Isle of Harris Distillery began production in 2015 and released its first single malt, The Hearach, in September 2023. It marked its 10th anniversary last year with the release of The Hearach Decade Edition. The latest addition to the distillery’s core range is its first official bottling not to use ‘The Hearach’ name, a Scots Gaelic demonym for inhabitants of Harris. In June 2026, an independent report from MKA Economics showed that Isle of Harris Distillery had contributed £13.8 million (US$18.45m) to the local economy since 2015. Related news Ad Gefrin announces 'first' Northumbrian single malts

Fireball Whisky offers free head shaves and chance to win Miami trip near Hyde Park ahead of Pitbull concert Fireball Cinnamon Whisky will host an event at a barbershop near Hyde Park in central London this Friday, inviting members of the public to shave their heads “Fire-Bald” for the chance to win a trip to Miami – all timed to coincide with Pitbull’s performance at BST Hyde Park on the same day. The event, dubbed Fireball’s Bald Spot, will run from midday to 6pm at 11 Curzon Street, roughly a five-minute walk from the Park Lane entrance of Hyde Park. The premise honours Cuban-American rapper Pitbull (who performs under the name Mr Worldwide). Attendees over 18 are invited to have their heads shaved at the venue in a nod to the musician’s look. Those who go through with the challenge will then be able to spin what the brand calls the Fireball Winning Wheel, with a stated one-in-six chance of winning the top prize. That prize consists of an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Miami, including flights, five nights in a hotel, nightlife access and spending money. Participants who do not win big can also claim smaller rewards such as Fireball miniatures or cash. Music will be played at the shop to evoke a Miami atmosphere, and shots will be available for those of legal drinking age. Though Fireball explains the event is independent and in no way associated or affiliated with Pitbull or the festival, the challenge marks the artist’s appearance at BST Hyde Park. The venue is located just next door to the park or around a six-minute walk from Green Park Underground station, and fans can visit free of charge. Food Desk Fireball’s Bald Spot takes place on 10th July 2026 at Ted’s Grooming Room, 11 Curzon Street, London W1J 5HJ. Entry is free of charge. For further information about Fireball Whisky, visit the brand’s website here. Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube RSS

The Best Western Plus University Inn in Moscow is inviting you to Whiskey Wednesday featuring Midnight Highway on July 8, at 6:00 pm in the courtyard. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome. Midnight Highway performs around the Pacific Northwest and plays a blend of modern country and classic rock. The evening will also feature whiskey flights, bourbon cocktails, and a special Whiskey Wednesday menu. More information is available here.

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As tall ships entered the harbor this Fourth of July, the moment reflected a long-standing American affinity for exploration and discovery. As the Official American Whiskey of Sail4th 250, Jefferson’s Bourbon draws on a similar spirit, incorporating the ocean itself as part of its aging process. “We couldn't be more happy to be part of the tall Ships. This is all about exploration and adventure, and that's what we've been doing for the last 29 years at Jefferson's Ocean.” -Trey Zoeller, Founder It's that love of exploration that set Zoeller and his father on a path to create something very special nearly 30 years ago. Trey comes from a family of Kentucky historians that date back to his eighth-generation grandmother, the first woman in the whiskey business. Her innovative spirit lives on in Trey and his father. That innovation and curiosity led Trey to discover the ocean aging process in barrels that sail on ships around the globe, making nature its laboratory. The tall ships of the world have brought smiles, majestic moments and awe to many. Jefferson’s Bourbon joins this once-in-a-lifetime celebration by pouring the Official Cocktail of Sail4th 250: the High Seas Highball. Guests 21 and older can enjoy this limited-edition cocktail at Cobble Fish (located on Pier 16) from 7/6 - ⅞. To learn more about Jefferson’s Bourbon, visit https://jeffersonsbourbon.com/ As tall ships entered the harbor this Fourth of July, the moment reflected a long-standing American affinity for exploration and discovery. As the Official American Whiskey of Sail4th 250, Jefferson’s Bourbon draws on a similar spirit, incorporating the ocean itself as part of its aging process. “We couldn't be more happy to be part of the tall Ships. This is all about exploration and adventure, and that's what we've been doing for the last 29 years at Jefferson's Ocean.” -Trey Zoeller, Founder It's that love of exploration that set Zoeller and his father on a path to create something very special nearly 30 years ago. Trey comes from a family of Kentucky historians that date back to his eighth-generation grandmother, the first woman in the whiskey business. Her innovative spirit lives on in Trey and his father. That innovation and curiosity led Trey to discover the ocean aging process in barrels that sail on ships around the globe, making nature its laboratory. The tall ships of the world have brought smiles, majestic moments and awe to many. Jefferson’s Bourbon joins this once-in-a-lifetime celebration by pouring the Official Cocktail of Sail4th 250: the High Seas Highball. Guests 21 and older can enjoy this limited-edition cocktail at Cobble Fish (located on Pier 16) from 7/6 - ⅞. To learn more about Jefferson’s Bourbon, visit https://jeffersonsbourbon.com/ Sign up for our newsletter to stay connected and get updates for all things Sail4th 250!

‘Dawgs on Tour: How Do You Like Your Whiskey? This is one of those needlessly confusing magical weeks in professional golf where there are two PGA Tour events occuring concurrently. You have options for your golf viewing pleasure, and while the events are fairly disparate, they’re contested in areas famous for good spirits. After the PGA Tour bailed out the (European) DP World Tour with a cash infusion, they also propped it up by cross-pollinating some of the Tours and players in a few select instances. This is one of those instances. The Scottish Open has long been a staple of European Tour golf, and normally a tune-up for the British Open. It offers similar weather, similar time zones, and somewhat similar golf courses. The PGA Tour used its purse power to squeeze onto the Scottish Open dias, co-sanctioned the event by upping the prize money and offering FedEx Cup points, and leveraged that to bring some of the big US stars over to Europe for a couple of weeks. All this bolsters ratings and the somewhat scant bank accounts of the DP World Tour. The Scottish has decidedly found a home at the Rennaissance Club – even if they haven’t decided how to pronounce it. It is both linksy and parkland in nature – it has 3 holes along the Scottish coast but was orignally carved out of a pine forest. After a spring and summer of big golf events jammed too close to each other causing some big names to skip a week here and there, all the big names will be on property this week. And because it is technically a DP World Tour event, some LIV golfers are able to play like Jon Rahm. Back in the States, the PGA Tour is holding an “alternate field event” in Louisville, KY at the Hurstbourne Country Club. The field of the ISCO Championship is less familiar that the Scottish field, unless you’re a week-in week-out golf junkie like myself. You have your Luke Lists, your Christiaan Bezuidenhouts, Tom Hoges and Denny McCarthys, and you have your Jackson Koivuns and J.B. Holmes to boot. Dawgs in the Genesis Scottish Open field: Chris Kirk, Harris English, Brian Harman, Sepp Straka ‘Dawgs in the ISCO Championship field: Davis Thompson, Brendon Todd. The purses will probably tell you most of the story. In Scotland, they’re handing out $9 million in total and $1.575 million to the winner. In Louisville, its cut to $4 million in total and a paltry $720,000 to the victor. Because of the time zones, the Scottish will be on Golf Channel Thursday and Friday from 11am-2pm ET, Golf Channel Friday and Saturday 10am-noon and then noon-3pm on CBS. The ISCO will be exclusively on Golf Channel 4-7 pm all four days. So different tournaments, different continents, different time zones, different fields, and different distilling. But they both have former Bulldogs. Enjoy your break from soccer, and as always… GO ‘DAWGS!!! ‘