Whisky Exchange, one of the largest online spirits retailers in the United Kingdom has announced its yearly award of Whisky of the Year.
Choosing just one whisky to celebrate is never easy, but we’re delighted to announce our Whisky of the Year for 2025 from an incredible shortlist of six, crowned by our panel of industry experts and the attendees at our judging event in London. ~ Whisky Exchange
This year's winner is New Riff Bourbon Bottled in Bond!
Image credit: New Riff
The shortlist consisted of the following whiskies: Glenglassaugh Portsoy, Glen Scotia Victoriana, Kilchoman Sanaig, Green Spot Leoville Barton Bordeaux Finish, and Glencadam 15 Year Old.
“Blind tasting is always a great way to remove all preconceptions about liquid, and it was fantastic to see that two American whiskies – one Bourbon and one American single malt – took the crown this year. American whiskey is often seen by Scotch lovers as maybe not as exciting as Scottish single malts, but this lineup shows it can certainly hold its own on the world stage. Flavour, complexity, and downright drinkability won outright in these tastings.” ~ Dawn Davies MW, head buyer at The Whisky Exchange
Specs - New Riff Bourbon Bottled in Bond
- AGE: 4 Years Old
- PROOF: 100
- ABV: 50%
- MASHBILL: 65% Corn 30% Rye 5% Malted Barley
- Bottled in Bond without Chill Filtration
About New Riff Bourbon Bottled in Bond From The Brand
Image credit: Whisky Exchange
New Riff Distilling’s core Bourbon expression is a genuinely high-rye, full bodied whiskey offering savory, spicy character, featuring a mash bill of non-GMO grains at 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley. Aged four years in 53-gallon toasted and charred new oak barrels, there are no shortcuts taken in our production. All New Riff whiskeys are made with the full sour mash Kentucky Regimen; all carry an age statement, and are always bottled in bond without chill filtration.
The New Wave Whisky Whisky Of The Year 2025
Additionally there was a second prize that was given called the New Wave Whisky of the Year. The winner, another American whiskey was: Copperworks Release 046 American Single Malt Whiskey. American single malt is a burgeoning category and this complex whiskey from Copperworks is a perfect example of the style. Distilled with Genie barley from a single farm in Oregon, Copperworks showcases notes of floral, fruity with a dash of citrus.
About The Whisky Exchange
Founded by Rajbir and Sukhinder Singh who shipped their first orders back in 1999. They have grown their business from a two-man operation to the world’s leading retailer of premium spirits. They aimed to build a global community that’s as passionate about quality drinks. They believe in sharing their collective knowledge, encouraging exploration, and championing producers they are passionate about.
