5 Best Whiskies From Around the World
Whisky-making is shaped by local climate, grain, water and tradition, which is why no two countries’ whiskies ever taste quite the same. If you already know the classic Scotch and Bourbon staples, these five bottles from five different corners of the globe are worth adding to your next tasting.
Archie Rose, Australia
Australia’s whisky scene is still young but growing fast, and the award-winning Archie Rose distillery is one of the names putting it on the map. Archie Rose whisky is distinctly earthy, with vibrant notes of cinnamon, apple and nutmeg on the palate.
The finish is buttery, with a hint of smokiness that gives it a drying quality experienced whisky lovers know how to appreciate — and it goes great with your favourite appetisers. Archie Rose is an easy one to fall in love with.
Two Doves, Serbia
Serbia, nestled in the northern Balkan Peninsula, isn’t a country most people associate with whisky-crafting — but local distilleries are proving they can compete with top makers around the globe, with the soft, yet mostly bitter Two Doves single malt.
Matured in oak barrels for four years from natural ingredients, it pours a beautiful dark golden hue with a very sweet aroma — another fine example of world-class craftsmanship. Don’t let the unassuming bottle design put you off trying this family-owned recipe.
The Willett, United States
Established in 1936, the Willett Distillery has built a long and proud tradition crafting bourbon and rye. Among its range, the Willett Family Estate Bottled 4 Year Rye stands out: a distinctly sweet nose of tart cherry and cinnamon, with a hint of oak.
On the palate, expect burnt vanilla alongside dark cherry and spice, closing with a long, lingering, spicy finish. The four-year maturing process gives it a unique hue from the branded cherry and oak seeping into the body.
Definitely one of the best whiskies to try at least once.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony, Japan
Japan isn’t the first country that comes to mind when you think of whisky craftsmanship, but experienced aficionados know a fine spirit can hail from the Land of the Rising Sun. The Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a good example why: a luminous amber hue with a distinctly sweet palate.
This unique blend brings together many subtle aromas, with rose complemented by rosemary and mature woodiness making a striking presence as soon as you open the bottle. The palate has a honey-like sweetness, with white chocolate and just a hint of orange peel, and a subtle finish of Japanese oak lingering on the tongue.
Royal Brackla, Scotland
Scotland is synonymous with great whisky, and it’s no surprise one of the country’s finest distilleries makes this list. The Royal Brackla 21YO is one of the best Scotch whiskies you may not have tried yet, with a vivid russet colour and a palate full of complex tastes.
It’s characterised by apples and pears on the nose, while the palate turns distinctly chocolatey, with ginger and more fruit notes. Old-wood notes are present with every sip, and the finish is long and heavy, leaving a lingering chocolate and cocoa taste.
Whisky-making has been an art form since the 15th century, with distilleries around the globe preserving the tradition and craftsmanship passed down through generations, each adding its own mix of spices and ingredients. If you’re looking to expand your palate and discover new tastes, these five bottles are a solid place to start.
Peter is a men’s lifestyle writer at Gentleman Zone magazine from the UK. Follow Peter on Twitter for more tips.