Whiskey enthusiasts, this year is shaping up to be a marvelous year for all the whiskey lovers out there! From smooth and complex bourbons to bold, peaty scotch and refined Japanese blends, this year’s offerings have something for every discerning palate. Be it a seasoned connoisseur or someone new to the world of whisky, we have a wide range of whiskeys that are sure to impress with their exceptional flavors, unique aging process, and meticulous craftsmanship, catering to every budget and occasion.
Let's Explore the 10 Best Whiskeys You Should try in 2024 and Embark on New Adventures
1. The Macallan 30 Double Cask Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
A masterpiece of craftsmanship, matured for three decades in both American and European oak sherry-seasoned casks. This long aging process gives this whisky the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Enriched with notes of dried fruits, toffee, and vanilla complimented by subtle hints of oak and spice. With its luxurious finish and unparalleled richness, this 30-year-old Scotch is a true collector’s item and a celebration of Highland whisky heritage.
Price: Around $6000
Mash Bill: 100% malted barley
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillery: The Macallan
Region: Speyside, Scotland
Finish: Long and smooth, with lingering sweet spice and oak
Pairing suggestion: Dark chocolate truffles, aged cheeses, or smoked salmon
2. Yamazaki 18 Year Old Single Malt Japanese Whisky
The prestigious Japanese whisky from the house of Japan’s oldest malt distillery ‘Yamazaki’. Aged for 18 years in American, Spanish and Japanese oak casks, it offers a complex profile, rich flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruits and subtle smoke- balanced by soft and full-bodied texture. Perfect sip for those seeking a truly special pour, loved by connoisseurs for its elegance and depth.
Price: Quite expensive around $1000
Mash Bill: 100% malted barley
Type: Japanese Whisky (Single Malt)
Distillery: Yamazaki
Region: Osaka Prefecture, Japan
Finish: Long and smooth
Pairing suggestion: Dark chocolate, aged cheeses, or a rich, savory dish like grilled steak
3. Hibiki 21 Year Old Japanese Whisky
This 21 Year Old Japanese Whisky is Hibiki’s masterpiece of blending- offers a deep and complex flavor profile. Aged for over two decades, combining the finest malt and grain whiskies from Suntory distilleries. Boasted with notes of dried fruit, rich honey, dark chocolate, and a hint of smoky oak, perfectly balanced with a velvety finish. One of the classic choices with the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and precision, perfect for connoisseurs. Ideal for celebrating special occasions or sending a luxury gift to someone very special.
Price: Expensive around $1500
Mash Bill: Blend of malt and grain whiskies
Type: Japanese Blended Whisky
Distillery: Suntory Whisky
Brand: Hibiki
Region: Japan
Finish: Long and rich
Pairing suggestion: Dark chocolate, dried fruits, and aged cheeses
4. William Larue Weller Bourbon 125.3 Proof (2021 Release)
The 2021 release of W.L Weller bourbon is one of the rare gems in the world of premium bourbon. This straight bourbon embodies the rich heritage of the Buffalo Trace distillery- crafted from a Wheated mash bill and bottled at an impressive 123.5 proof. Aged to perfection and delivers a bold, yet smoother character, offering a truly distinctive tasting experience for bourbon lovers. This bottle is perfect for milestone events as a centerpiece of the table.
Price: Expensive around $2500
Mash Bill: Wheated bourbon mash bill
Type: Straight bourbon
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Region: Kentucky, USA
Finish: Long and Warm finish
Pairing suggestion: Chocolate mousse, grilled meats, or an artisan cheese platter
5. Pappy Van Winkle's 20 Year Family Reserve
This bottle from Pappy Van Winkle’s is the epitome of luxury bourbon, highly sought-after whiskey, aged for two decades- resulting in a very complex and flavor enriched profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. This 20 Year Family Reserve is known for its rarity and unique quality, showcasing the Van Winkle family's dedication to craftsmanship. Worth sipping on milestone events, or coveted to any bourbon whiskey collection.
Price: High range around $4000
Mash Bill: Blend of corn, rye, and barley
Type: Straight bourbon whiskey
Distillery: Van Winkle Family
Region: Kentucky, USA
Finish: Long and complex
Pairing suggestion: Rich, dark chocolate dessert or a fine cigar
6. Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon whiskey
One of the most celebrated American whiskey, Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon- known for its silky and refined character. It is the first single-barrel bourbon crafted at Buffalo Trace distillery, setting a high standard for quality by offering a unique tasting experience with each sip. It’s rich flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey, balanced with hints of citrus and spice. Its smooth finish and unique horse bottle design make it a favorite among collectors and bourbon lovers alike. Explore the high rye bourbon for sipping neat or on the rocks.
Price: Mid-Average around $100-200
Mash Bill: High rye bourbon mash bill
Type: Single Barrel Bourbon
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Brand: Blanton's
Region: Kentucky, USA
Finish: Long and Soft
Pairing suggestion: Grilled steak, dark chocolate, or a rich cheese platter
7. Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a legendary spirit with deep roots in American history- its charred oak barrel aging boasts rich, complex flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak with a subtle balance of spice. Ideal for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in the classic cocktails, every whiskey enthusiast, seeking premium bourbons should must-sip this Buffalo Trace collection once. Best part is that this fine spirit is super affordable for those who want to savor authentic whiskey on a budget.
Price: Affordable
Mash Bill: Corn, Rye, and Malted Barley
Type: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Region: Frankfort, Kentucky, USA
Finish: Smooth
Pairing suggestion: Grilled steaks, smoked brisket, dark chocolate, or rich cheeses
8. Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey
This Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey is Angel's Envy limited-edition spirit that captivates bourbon enthusiasts with its robust flavors and outstanding quality. Its aging process undergoes a unique finishing process in port wine barrels to enhance its deep and rich profile. Savor the symphony of dark chocolate, ripe fruits, and tasted oaks. A bold yet balanced whiskey- bottled at cask strength, showcasing an intense character, a prized edition to any collection- offering premium and memorable bourbon experience.
Price: Mid-Average around $300-400
Mash Bill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Type: Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Angel's Envy
Region: Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Finish: Long and smooth
Pairing suggestion: Dark chocolate, aged cheeses, grilled meats, or a fine cigar cheeses
9. Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Basil Hayden an approachable yet sophisticated Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Refined, small-batch bourbon known for its balance and smooth flavors. Hailing from Jim Beam distillery, crafted with a high-rye mash bill including- 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% malted barley which offers a delicate spice that blends seamlessly with hints of caramel, oak, and dried fruit. It delivers a light-bodied experience, making it affable for every bourbon lover. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks or mix it with a classic cocktail for an adventurous ride.
Price: Affordable
Mash Bill: High-rye mash bill
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Jim Beam
Brand: Basil Hayden's
Region: Clermont, Kentucky, USA
Finish: Smooth and warm
Pairing suggestion: Chocolates, smoked meats, or sharp cheeses
10. Maker's Mark Bourbon Whisky
Savor the unique craftsmanship and rich heritage of Maker’s Mark bourbon whisky, known for its smooth, sweet flavor profile. This Kentucky bourbon is distilled with a meticulous blend of corn, wheat, and barley. Its signature red wax seal and handcrafted quality make each bottle a symbol of excellence with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak offer a refined drinking experience for both discerning palates and newcomers- can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in classic cocktails. Perfect for special occasions or family and friends get together.
From ultra-premium scotch and bourbons to approachable and affordable bottles, this 2024 explore these top 10 whisky for yourself or for sending as a gift to someone special. If you are sipping it for yourself or very fond of drinking bourbon with new styles try out these interesting tips to drink bourbon whiskey to make your experience even more better. So why wait? Grab your glasses and discover the flavorful world of whiskey with these amazing bottles.
Price: Affordable
Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 16% Red Winter Wheat, 14% Malted Barley
Type: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Maker's Mark
Region: Loretto, Kentucky, USA
Finish: Smooth
Pairing suggestion: Grilled meats, rich cheeses, or dark chocolate desserts
FAQ
What is the best way to drink whiskey?
Ideally there are various ways to enjoy whiskey, but it totally depends on the personal preferences. Some may like it neat, served at room temperature, some with a block of ice or some in cocktails like Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Whiskey Sour.
Is whisky good for gifting?
Whisky makes an excellent present for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It is versatile, with options to choose from based on the recipient’s taste. Pick any bottle from affordable Basil Hyden, Maker’s Mark, to premium Macallan, and W.L. Wellar, or you can also visit a wine and spirits gift store for liquor gift baskets. A rare or limited edition is a luxurious gift for special occasions, making every celebration a memorable moment.
What food goes well with whisky?
Delicious food always enhances the flavor of alcoholic beverages. Rich food goes perfectly well with the hardcore bourbon and whisky. Try experimenting with chocolates, aged cheese, grilled meats and chicken or nuts and dried fruits.
Which whisky is best at a low price?
Some distilleries offer robust whisky at affordable prices for those who wish to savor those premium, limited edition tastes at their budget. Buffalo Trace, Basil Hayden’s, and Maker’s Mark are such brands that offer bottles at lower prices with great tasting experience.
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