The 10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the World

Wondering what are the best Scotch whiskies? 

It’s common knowledge that true whisky, as we know it today, has been crafted in Scotland for centuries. However, many claim that its roots stretch back to Ireland. Legend has it that some monks, returning from Ireland, brought along a basic recipe for what would eventually evolve into the renowned Scotch whisky.

We’ve done our homework, scouring reviews by industry experts. Based on their insights, we’ve curated a list of the world’s best Scotch whiskies. So, without further ado, here’s our selection.

1. Aberfeldy 21 YO Madeira Cask

Hailing from the Highlands with a hint of peatiness, Aberfeldy 21 YO is aged in former Madeira oak casks. It has a delicate aroma and flavor profile. Upon first sip, you’ll notice hints of sweet tobacco, with a spicy, lingering finish. Its initial scent is a delightful blend of honey, heather tea, and toasted malt, with subtle woody undertones. Packaged in a stylish 700 ml bottle with an elegant case, it’s the perfect gift for whisky connoisseurs who appreciate quality.

2. Lagavulin 16 YO Scotch Whisky Single Malt

One of the best scotch whiskies among whisky enthusiasts is undoubtedly Lagavulin 16 YO Scotch Whisky Single Malt. Crafted in 1816 by the renowned Lagavulin brand at their distillery in Islay, it offers a unique and unmistakable flavor profile, with fruity notes and a subtle hint of vanilla. Aged for 16 years in oak barrels formerly used for bourbon, it has a rich amber hue. 

3. Whisky Balvenie 12 YO Doublewood

A top pick for whisky lovers, Whisky Balvenie 12 YO Doublewood has been made at the Balvenie distillery in Speyside since 1892. This whisky ages for 12 years in American oak Bourbon barrels before a nine-month finish in Spanish oak Sherry Oloroso casks. Its sweet, fruity flavor with Sherry hints stands out, alongside cinnamon spice and a long, smooth finish. Clearly one of the best Scotch whiskies.

4. Dalwhinnie 15 YO Scotch Whisky Single Malt

Loved by consumers for its smooth taste, Dalwhinnie 15 YO Scotch Whisky Single Malt features hints of heather, honey, and vanilla. Aged for 15 years in oak barrels, it’s a true Highland Scotch. One of its unique features is its water source, Allt an t-Sluic, sourced from 600 meters above sea level. Clearly one of the finest Scotch whiskies out there.

5. Caol Ila 12 YO

Located on the Isle of Islay, the Caol Ila distillery crafts one of the best Scotch whiskies. It presents a clear, golden hue. Caol Ila 12 YO has a fresh and floral aroma, with that characteristic salty tang of Islay whiskies. The taste is wonderfully diverse, offering sweet notes and ripe fruit alongside a hint of smoky peat. 

6. AnCnoc 12 YO

Ranked among the best Scotch whiskies, AnCnoc 12 YO is distilled at Knockdhu in the Highlands and aged to perfection. Its sweet, fruity flavor profile offers notes of candied apple, lavender honey, and malted barley. Credit for its unique aroma goes to the American oak ex-Bourbon barrels. A must-have for any whisky lover’s collection.

7. Ardbeg 10 YO

Established in 1815, Ardbeg is  one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries. Ardbeg 10 YO has a peaty aroma, nicely complemented by hints of lime and black pepper. The finish leaves a delightful taste of coffee and roasted almonds. This whisky is definitely a favorite among connoisseurs for its bold flavor.

8. Laphroaig 10 YO Single Malt

This whisky is quite popular, and for good reason – it offers a great quality-to-cost ratio. Laphroaig Single Malt is a traditional Scottish whisky that won’t empty your wallet, aged for a decade. Its rich, full-bodied flavor with a hint of seaweed on the finish comes from the malt drying process over a peat fire on the Isle of Islay.

9. Talisker 10 YO Single Malt

Talisker Single Malt is distilled on the Isle of Skye and aged for 10 years in oak barrels, following tradition. It offers a distinctive flavor profile, combining sea breeze with hints of black pepper. Experts consider it an excellent starting point for newcomers to the whisky world.

10. Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 YO

Johnnie Walker Black Label has been around since 1819, and it’s one of the most popular whiskies globally. Aged for 12 years, it’s highly regarded by enthusiasts. Less experienced drinkers enjoy it, too. Thanks to the fermentation process in oak barrels, it features an aroma of tropical fruits with traces of vanilla and a full-bodied flavor.