12 Best World Whiskies To Try in 2024, According to the Experts

12 Best World Whiskies To Try in 2024

The landscape of whisky production has expanded beyond traditional whisky-making regions like Scotland and Ireland, with distilleries worldwide now producing top-quality drams. Inspired by the success of Japanese whisky, distillers from diverse locations embrace experimentation, utilizing unique maturation techniques and local ingredients to craft distinct and exceptional whiskies. Environmental factors also play a crucial role, with whiskies maturing differently in various climates; for instance, whisky aged in hot, humid conditions matures more rapidly. From Tasmania to India, the global whisky scene offers a wealth of options for enthusiasts seeking unique and well-travelled bottles to enhance their collection.

BEST RYE WHISKEY: WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey

Crafted by the master distiller renowned for Maker’s Mark’s top-selling blends, this 10-year-old rye exceeded our expectations. After an extensive search, the distillery opted for casks from Sauternes, Porto, and Madeira, resulting in unmatched complexity. With prominent flavors of orange peel, green pepper, star anise, and muscovado sugar upfront, it culminates in a subtle hint of barrel char on the finish. Buy it now!

BEST IN A MANHATTAN: Sazerac Rye

Our panel unanimously praised the impeccably balanced aromas of this spicy sazerac from Buffalo Trace, featuring notes of ginger, citrus oil, butterscotch, and lingering smoke. Its velvety mouthfeel has earned it a place as our new favorite for a Manhattan, but it surprisingly pairs well with native oysters too. Trust us on that. Buy it now!

BEST SWEDISH WHISKY: Agitator Single Malt Whisky

Hailing from Arboga, Sweden, this single malt impressed our panel with its lively fruit profile, featuring notes of citrus, red apple, and dried fruit sweetness imparted by the sherry casks it's aged in. On the palate, peat and a hint of sea salt add complexity, making this a worthy sipping whisky. Try it with a dash of distilled water to bring out the nuttier backnotes. Buy it now!

BEST FRENCH WHISKY: Hautes Glaces Indigene Organic Whisky

This reinterpretation of the classic single malt begins with barley grown in the Alps, distilled over a wood fire, and aged in ex-Cognac, ex-Armagnac, and ex-wine casks. Indigene offers a must-try experience for whisky enthusiasts, starting with notes of sweet vanilla, almond, and toasted oats, followed by warming cinnamon, clove, and a hint of citrus. Enjoy it straight-up or elevate it in a Rusty Nail by shaking with Drambuie and serving on the rocks with a lemon twist. Buy it now!

BEST IN AN OLD FASHIONED: Never Say Die Rye Whiskey

Distilled in Kentucky and matured at the White Peak Distillery in England, this rye whiskey from the transatlantic brand Never Say Die boasts complexity both on the nose and palate. Sweet and warming aromas of rich caramel, apple cake, coconut, and warming spices greet the senses. On the palate, it delivers a rich and complex experience, with flavors of butterscotch, roasted vanilla pods, toasted wheat, and biscuits complemented by wonderfully rich and spicy undertones. With its excellently balanced sweetness, this whiskey would make a delicious old fashioned. Buy it now!

BEST AUSTRALIAN WHISKY: Starward Left-Field

Born in Melbourne, the foodie capital of Australia, Left-Field is matured in red wine barrels from some of the country's best wine regions, adding a red berry layer to the liquid. Aromatic and floral, it’s a treat on the nose, with cherry blossom leading to a deeper, peppery oak finish that builds and lingers. This modern, new-world whisky is versatile enough to be enjoyed neat, or with a splash of tonic should the mood take you. Buy it now!

BEST DANISH WHISKY: Stauning Host Whisky

Made from 100% floor-malted Danish grain, this unique sipper combines the best of traditional single malt and rye whisky in one dram. Fruity and floral, with apple blossom, red berries, and honey at the forefront, our panel praised its “smooth, rounded mouthfeel” and found it to be the perfect nightcap. Buy it now!

BEST CANADIAN WHISKY: Pike Creek 10 Year Old Rum Finish Canadian Whisky

Considered by many as one of Canada’s finest whiskies, Pike Creek is soft, supple, and approachable, akin to a slice of sticky fruit cake. Its finishing touch in rum barrels infuses bold notes of vanilla, syrupy sweetness, and spice. This makes it an ideal choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking new horizons. Buy it now!

BEST JAPANESE WHISKY: The House of Suntory The Chita Single Grain Japanese Whisky

Grain whiskies are often noted for their lighter flavor profiles compared to malts, but this Japanese offering defies that stereotype with its abundance of complexity. Aged in a blend of sherry, bourbon, and wine casks, it presents a delightful mix of tropical fruits, caramel, and vanilla, with a subtle hint of toasted rye-style grain. It's a standout choice that we believe sets a new standard. Buy it now!

BEST IN A MINT JULEP: Bulleit 95 Rye Bourbon Frontier Whiskey

Bulleit 95 has become a staple in bars globally since its introduction in 2011 and is equally prized for home use. Its smooth profile features sweet maple and oak notes, finishing with a delicate blend of wood and hints of dried fruit and smoke. This bourbon's versatility makes it ideal for classic cocktails, while it particularly excels in a mint julep. Buy it now!

BEST INDIAN WHISKY: Rampur Double Cask Single Malt Whisky

Rampur stands out as an Indian single malt, distinguished by its maturation in bourbon barrels and ex-sherry casks. This blend yields a harmoniously balanced whisky, characterized by vibrant tropical fruit notes, complemented by hints of caramel and warming spices in the finish. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, enthusiasts and collectors alike will find delight in adding this gem to their bar cart. Buy it now!

RUNNER-UP INDIAN WHISKY: Paul John Brilliance Indian Single Malt Whisky

Paul John presents a more budget-friendly option from the region, featuring a whisky crafted from Himalayan barley and aged in Goa. While the nose initially offers a clean, peppery aroma, the true allure unfolds on the palate, revealing a rich, malted essence. It also boasts a subtle smokiness akin to pricier Lagavulin, complemented by notes of walnuts, cinnamon, and vanilla. For the full experience, a drop of water enhances its complexity, making each sip a moment to savor. Buy it now!