Best whiskeys to try in 2025 for every taste and budget

The word “whiskey” comes from the Scottish Gaelic usquebaugh, meaning “water of life”, a fitting name for one of the world’s most beloved spirits. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s typically spelled “whiskey,” while the rest of the world often drops the “e.” 

Whiskey is revered for its incredible diversity of flavors, aged in wood barrels; it can develop notes ranging from fruit and honey to smoke and spice, depending on its origin and aging process. 

Whether you like it bold or smooth, traditional or innovative, here are 13 whiskeys you’ll want to raise a glass to.

1/13

Chivas Regal 12-Year-Old

Chivas Regal is synonymous with elegance, complexity, and balance. Its 12-year-old Scotch is rich with layered aromas and a flavor profile highlighting dried fruits, honey, and a subtle wisp of smoke, a refined sensory journey with every sip.

2/13

The Macallan Double Cask 12-Year-Old

This single malt Scotch perfectly blends Macallan’s signature smoothness with the rich character of American oak sherry casks. Expect floral aromas, gentle citrus, and a delicate touch of spice, a classic expression with a modern twist.

3/13

Nomad Outland Whisky Reserva 10-Year

A beautiful union between Scotland and Spain, this whisky is distilled and initially aged in Speyside, then finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks at the historic González Byass cellars in Jerez. Youthful yet mature, it offers malt, wood, raisins, honey, and vanilla notes.

4/13

Glenfiddich 21 Gran Reserva

A top-shelf Scotch finished in Caribbean rum casks, this expression dazzles with layers of toasted cake, dried tropical fruit, and hints of vanilla flan. Complex and distinguished, it’s a must-try for serious connoisseurs.

5/13

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

Crafted from rare reserves (only 1 in every 10,000 casks makes the cut), Blue Label is a masterclass in luxury. Its aroma reveals smoke, raisins, and nuts, while the palate unfolds into honeyed heather, hazelnuts, orange zest, and a spiced sherry finish.

6/13

 Jack Daniel’s McLXJD 2025 Limited Edition

Jack Daniel’s teams up with McLaren Formula 1 for this exclusive whiskey, distilled to 43% ABV and honoring the heritage of two iconic brands. Made from 80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% malted barley, it’s charcoal-mellowed and aged in handcrafted American oak. Expect rich caramel, creamy vanilla, and a smooth, toasty finish. 

7/13

Bushmills 21-Year-Old

This 100% malted barley Irish whiskey is aged 19 years in Oloroso sherry and brandy casks, then finished for two more years in Madeira barrels. Deep and complex, it delivers dried fruit flavors, warming spices, and silky malt.

8/13

Ballantine’s 10-Year-Old

Ballantine’s invites you to toast with character. This 10-year-old Scotch, aged in American oak, boasts exceptional smoothness with honey, red apple, and caramel notes. A warm, welcoming sip that celebrates individuality and time well spent.

9/13

The Balvenie French Oak 16-Year-Old

This exceptional whisky is first aged in traditional barrels, then finished in French oak that previously held Pineau des Charentes, a fortified wine from France. Aromas of vanilla, ripe fruit, and spice lead to a palate filled with toffee, nuts, and lingering caramel. 

10/13

Jameson

A go-to Irish whiskey for free spirits. Triple-distilled for signature smoothness, Jameson is perfect on its own or mixed with ginger ale. Easygoing, approachable, and always up for a good time—best enjoyed in great company.

11/13

BIKKUN Vatted Malt Whisky M&H Edition

This is a uniquely crafted whisky that’s first aged in American oak barrels and then finished in casks that previously held oloroso sherry. It’s the result of a cross-cultural collaboration between two distilleries: Basque Moonshiners from Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, and Milk & Honey from Tel Aviv, Israel—one of the leading voices in the new wave of innovative young whisky producers making waves on the global stage.Aromatically, this whisky is rich and layered, offering notes of raisins, ripe fruit, and stone fruits, along with hints of honey, cocoa, nuts, and buttery pastries. On the palate, the honey returns, wrapped in a medley of sherry and malt flavors for a bold, complex finish.

12/13

Wild Turkey 8-Year 101

Wild Turkey 8-Year Bourbon pays homage to the brand’s heritage with a modern twist, reviving its classic age-statement roots. Carefully selected from premium barrels, this bold expression delivers a richly layered profile, think warm vanilla, spiced clove, buttery toffee, charred oak, and a hint of black cherry, culminating in a long, peppery finish. More than just a release, the 8-Year stands as a proud celebration of Master Distiller Jimmy Russell’s seven-decade legacy and a distinguished new chapter for Wild Turkey.

13/13

Teeling Blackpitts Peated Single Malt Irish Whiskey

A rare peated gem from Ireland, Teeling Blackpitts is anything but ordinary. Triple distilled and aged in both ex-Bourbon and ex-Sauternes wine casks, this unconventional single malt stands apart with its smoky edge, a result of drying the barley over peat smoke, a technique far more common in Scotch than Irish whiskey. Crafted for the bold and curious, Blackpitts delivers a richly layered experience that challenges expectations and rewards those willing to venture beyond the traditional.

Ready to pour yourself something special? Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply embracing a good drink, these smooth and smoky Scotches offer something for every palate and every occasion.