Celebrating the Global Rise of World Whiskies

No longer limited to Scotch and Irish whiskies, there is a growing wave of global producers creating exceptional drams. Distilleries from India to Australia are experimenting with new methods of maturation and blending, while also celebrating local produce to create unique and distinctive flavors. With the natural environment playing a role in the aging process, whiskies matured in different climates can offer unexpected complexity.

Expert Recommendations

A panel of experts and whisky veterans blind tested a range of world whiskies. They looked for drams that challenged the norms, offered complex flavors, well-integrated alcohol, and the versatility to be sipped neat or used in cocktails.

Top Picks

• 10-Year-Old Rye: Made by a renowned distiller, this rye whiskey combines casks from Sauternes, Porto, and Madeira for unparalleled complexity.
• Spicy Sazerac: This sazerac by Buffalo Trace impressed the panel with its well-balanced aromas, making it perfect for cocktails and pairing with oysters.
• Swedish Single Malt: Hailing from Arboga, Sweden, this single malt offers a unique fruit-forward flavor profile and a hint of smoke and sea salt.
• French Single Malt: Domaine des Hautes Glaces has created a classic single malt that pays homage to the French landscape with its maturation in ex-Cognac, ex-Armagnac, and ex-wine casks.
• Complex Rye Whiskey: Distilled in Kentucky and matured in England, this rye whiskey offers a complex palate with notes of caramel, apple cake, coconut, and warming spices.
• Australian Whisky: Starward Distillery from Port Melbourne is making waves with its whisky matured in red wine barrels, offering aromas of apricot jam and richer flavors of ginger, chocolate, and apple.
• Memorable Dram: Stauning's Høst combines single malt sweetness and rye spice, matured in oak casks and port barriques for a fruity and floral profile.
• Sweet Canadian Whisky: Finished in rum barrels, this Canadian whisky is smooth and syrupy with notes of orange, spices, and vanilla, making it versatile and food-friendly.
• Japanese Grain Whisky: This Japanese drop brings complexity with its mixture of tropical fruits, caramel, and vanilla, offering a unique twist on grain whiskies.
• Classic Bourbon: Bulleit 95 is exceptionally smooth with sweet notes of maple and oak, making it perfect for classic cocktails or a mint julep.
• European Sherry Cask Single Malt: Rampur's expression is a harmonious blend of sweetness and spice, with flavors of raisin, honey, and tropical fruit.
• Unpeated Indian Single Malt: Made with Himalayan barley and distilled in Goa, this Indian single malt offers flavors of barley, apple, walnuts, and festive spices.

These world whiskies prove that the global rise of whisky production has opened up a world of possibilities for whisky enthusiasts. Whether you prefer traditional styles or experimental flavors, there is a world whisky waiting to be discovered.