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  • 10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK 2022 1
  • 10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK 2022 2
  • 10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK 2022 3
  • 10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK 2022 4
  • 10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK 2022 5

10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK 2022

Scotch whisky is one of the most popular spirits in the world, and it's easy to see why. This traditional tipple is easy to drink and bursting with bold, smoky flavours ideal for a Scotch and soda, an after-dinner cocktail, or just as a wee nip before bed. With its peat bogs and clear mountain waters, Scotland's unique geography has enabled it to produce many an exceptional whisky, so many, in fact, that a lot of us aren't sure where to start sipping!


Enter our buying guide: Full of tips on knowing your single malts from your single blends, how to identify peaty West coast flavours or lighter Highland tones, and a tasting guide to get you up to scratch for your next trip to the pub. Plus, we've compiled a top ten list from acclaimed distilleries such as Johnnie Walker, Glenfiddich and Dalwhinnie, including high-end choices, bottles under £30, and a gift set of miniatures. Slàinte!

Last updated 28/03/2024
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Table of Contents

What Characterises a Scotch Whisky?

What Characterises a Scotch Whisky?

But the notable character of Scotch whisky comes from its use of wholly malted barley. Typically, the grains are encouraged to sprout prior to being dried using peat smoke. The mixture is then twice, and sometimes even triple, distilled before being casked for a minimum of two years.


Oak barrels are commonly used for scotch maturation. This is because oak contains the organic compounds cellulose and hemicellulose, which caramelise the liquid and provide sweetness and Scotch's signature amber colour. Furthermore, the porous wood aids in oxidation for a smoother, fruitier taste. 

How to Choose a Scotch Whisky in the UK ― Buying Guide

When it comes to Scotch whisky you'll quickly find yourself spoilt for choice. Here are some tips on how to differentiate between bottles, to have you sitting down with a fine Scotch in no time! 

1

Malt, Grain, Single or Blend? Learn the Lingo to Narrow Down Your Choice

Whisky terminology can sometimes get a bit confusing, especially if you're just starting out in the world of Scotch. Understanding the lingo will help you narrow down your choices when searching for a Scotch whisky online.

Single Scotch Whiskies Are a Top Choice for Whisky Tasters to Sample

Single Scotch Whiskies Are a Top Choice for Whisky Tasters to Sample
Source:amazon.co.uk


The two main types of Scotch whisky are single malt and single grain. To be considered a ‘single’ whisky, it must be fully produced and matured at a single distillery.


Single malt whisky is one of the most popular Scotch whiskies worldwide. It’s made using 100% malted barley, which is why it has a maltier taste than other Scottish whiskies. Single grain whiskies, however, use a base of malted barley alongside other cereals. These can be a variety of other grains such as wheat, oat, rye, maize or corn, which provide more variation in terms of the flavour profile. 


If you're interested in whisky tasting, a single whisky is the perfect way to sample the unique flavours of a specific distillery

Whether Blended With Single Malt or Grain, Blended Whiskies Offer a Wider Flavour Variation

Whether Blended With Single Malt or Grain, Blended Whiskies Offer a Wider Flavour Variation
Source:amazon.co.uk


Blended whiskies combine different batches of single whiskies, sometimes from two or more distilleries, to achieve a specific flavour profile. There are three main categories of blended whisky that pertain to the specific blending technique used: blended scotch, blended malt scotch, and blended grain scotch. 


Blended scotch is made by blending together one or more single malt whiskies with a single grain. Less commonly found, blended malt scotch or ‘pure malt’ whisky blends two or more single malt scotch whiskies from at least two different distilleries. 


And lastly, blended grain scotch, which utilises a similar method to a blended malt. The only difference is that single grain whiskies are used instead of single malts. The artistry behind blending is knowing how to select and combine complementary whiskies. Different blenders have their own individual methods, but looking out for these blends will provide the widest range of flavour variation of Scotch varieties. 

2

Consider the Region Your Whisky Comes From and How it Influences Its Flavour

Scotland’s topography has a big influence on its whisky production, so the region your scotch comes from can be a good indicator of the particular flavours you can expect from the final product. Of course, a great way to discover which you prefer is to sample several, but the following advice should help you whittle it down. 

Choose West Coast and Island Distilleries for Strong Peaty Flavours and Smokey Tones

Choose West Coast and Island Distilleries for Strong Peaty Flavours and Smokey Tones

If you're a fan of earthy, aromatic 'peated' whiskies, look out for those hailing from the West Coast and the Scottish Isles. These include Laphroaig, Talisker and Highland Park among many others. They're not for everyone but certainly have many a follower. 


Whisky produced by distilleries along the West coast of Scotland, the Orkney Islands and the Inner Hebridean islands also have salty and smoky flavour profiles. This is partly because of the peat bogs along the Northern and Western coasts, which gives the water a higher peat content.


Go a bit further south and you'll find a mighty Scotch hailing from Islay. These whiskies are often a bit oily and the most heavily peated, providing some seriously strong peated flavours. 


Highland, Speyside and Lowland Whiskies Are Lighter and More Approachable for Newbies

Highland, Speyside and Lowland Whiskies Are Lighter and More Approachable for Newbies

Peated whiskies can be an acquired taste, so we recommend beginners start out by sampling lighter Scotch varieties, such as those from the Highlands, Lowlands and Speyside. Whiskies from the Highlands are considered medium-bodied. The abundance of pure mountain water gives them a lighter taste with subtle floral notes


More than half of Scotland’s malt whiskey production comes from distilleries located in the valley of the River Spey. Some famous Speyside distilleries to check out are Dalwhinnie, Johnnie Walker and Glenfiddich. Speyside whiskies have many similar characteristics to Highland whisky but with a spicier, fruitier character.


Lowland whiskies are typically the lightest. Lowland distilleries, such as Cameronbridge and Great Northern, produce whiskies with little to no peat for delicate, grassy flavours.

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10 Best Scotch Whiskies in the UK

From the Highlands and Lowlands to the Scottish Isles, we've found some excellent whiskies you'll really want to try! Here, in ranking order, are our top 10 Scotch whiskies to buy online this year. 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Glenfiddich

12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Glenfiddich  12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1

£25.00

Low Mid

The World’s Most Awarded Single Malt Scotch

2

Johnnie Walker

Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky

Johnnie Walker  Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky 1

£114.85

High

A Rare Artisanal Blend for Whisky Connoisseurs

3

Laphroaig

Quarter Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Laphroaig Quarter Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1

£38.25

Mid

A Richly Flavoured Peated Whisky

4

Compass Box

Hedonism Blended Grain Scotch Whisky

Compass Box  Hedonism Blended Grain Scotch Whisky 1

£56.95

High Mid

A Craftsman-Like Scotch That Blends Together Between Eight and Fifteen Different Grain Whiskies

5

Ardbeg Uigeadail

Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Ardbeg Uigeadail Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1

£53.00

High Mid

An Award Winning Islay Malt Whisky

6

Arran

10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Arran 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky  1

£35.95

Mid

A Gem From a New Scottish Distillery

7

Glenmorangie

The Original Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Glenmorangie  The Original Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1

£25.00

Low Mid

A Staple Single Malt and Scottish Bestseller

8

Dalwhinnie

15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Dalwhinnie  15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1

£42.50

Mid

Best After-Dinner Scotch Whisky to Accompany Dessert

9

Talisker

10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Talisker  10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1

£49.30

Mid

A Smoky Maritime Malt from the Isle of Skye

10

Haig Club

Clubman Single Grain Scotch Whisky

Haig Club  Clubman Single Grain Scotch Whisky 1

£15.00

Low

A Sweet Single Grain Whisky Suited to Mixed Drinks

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1
Source:tesco.com
Reference price
£25.00
Low Mid
Reference price
£25.00
Low Mid

The World’s Most Awarded Single Malt Scotch

The world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, Glenfiddich 12 year old is a prime example of what Speyside whisky has to offer. Using highland spring water, Glenfiddich is matured in a combination of American bourbon and Spanish sherry oak casks for fine texture and balance.


One for old time Scotch fans and beginners alike, Glenfiddich 12 has a distinctly mellow, fruity flavour profile best described as biting into a warm cinnamon baked pear. Yum! 

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No.2

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky

Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£114.85
High
Reference price
£114.85
High

A Rare Artisanal Blend for Whisky Connoisseurs

How could any top 10 Scotch whisky list not include Johnnie Walker? If you're already a Black Label devotee, we strongly suggest treating your taste buds (or someone you really like) with JW’s Blue Label blend.


An exceptionally rare mix of matured malt and grain scotch whiskies, only 1 in every 10,000 casks makes the cut! It's an artisanal fusion of candied rose petals and zesty orange with luxurious base notes of hazelnut, sherry and dark chocolate. This is one best reserved for whisky connoisseurs, served neat, alternating with sips of iced water. 

No.3

LaphroaigQuarter Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Quarter Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£38.25
Mid
Reference price
£38.25
Mid

A Richly Flavoured Peated Whisky

One of the world’s most richly flavoured whiskies, Laphroaig Quarter Cask is a full-bodied malt Scotch. By finishing the still-maturing spirit in a smaller sized quarter cask, the whisky receives increased contact with the wood of the oak barrels. This process creates a velvety softness that takes the edge off its strong peated flavour.


Laphroaig uses traditional malting floors and dying, and infuses its own malt over old peat-fired kilns. The result? A wild and untamed whisky imbued with nuances of hickory and bonfire smoke

No.4

Compass Box Hedonism Blended Grain Scotch Whisky

Hedonism Blended Grain Scotch Whisky 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£56.95
High Mid
Reference price
£56.95
High Mid

A Craftsman-Like Scotch That Blends Together Between Eight and Fifteen Different Grain Whiskies

Hedonism is an innovative new instalment in the world of whisky-making. Compass Box’s craftsman-like scotch is produced by expertly blending together between 8 and 15 different grain whiskies. From the casks selected, the majority have been matured over 20 years and all are aged in first-fill American oak.


You may be wondering what kind of flavour this technique produces, and the answer is, surprisingly sweet! Expect to taste flavours of vanilla, coconut, toffee and black cherry with a creamy milk chocolate finish.

No.5

Ardbeg UigeadailIslay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£53.00
High Mid
Reference price
£53.00
High Mid

An Award Winning Islay Malt Whisky

An intensely smoky, peaty single malt that's certainly not for beginners or the faint-hearted! Revered across the whisky world as the ultimate Islay malt, Ardbeg is full of character and complexity.


It may be one of the peatiest and smokiest out there but its surprisingly balanced with sweetness. The nose has initial aromas of Christmas cake and violets with hints of earthy cedar and pine. Chocolate raisin and treacle toffee notes rise up through the smoke to its delicious end.

No.6

Arran10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£35.95
Mid
Reference price
£35.95
Mid

A Gem From a New Scottish Distillery

This gorgeous 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky by Arran is presented with real integrity by this new, upcoming distillery. Distilled and matured in Lockranza it is non-chill-filtered and delightfully balanced, and perfect for both newbies and connoisseurs alike.


On the nose, there is an initial rush of sweetness, which gives way to oak, honey and butterscotch tones. A touch of cinnamon adds a spicy, malty edge to the soft texture on the palate, and the finish is clean, fresh with a hint of creaminess.

No.7

Glenmorangie The Original Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Reference price
£25.00
Low Mid

A Staple Single Malt and Scottish Bestseller

10 year old is the flagship single malt whisky from the Glenmorangie distillery. A Scottish bestseller, it’s considered a classic go-to by many a whisky enthusiast, and it comes at a very reasonable price


Matured in American white oak casks, it has a thick, creamy malted taste undercut by flavours of peach, lemon and vanilla. An approachable drink, we suggest a dram of Glenmorangie 10-year-old as an alternative to sherry as your aperitif of choice.

No.8

Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£42.50
Mid
Reference price
£42.50
Mid

Best After-Dinner Scotch Whisky to Accompany Dessert

Hailing from a small village in the heart of the Scottish highlands, Dalwhinnie prides itself in producing whiskies with a welcoming gentle spirit. Dalwhinnie 15 Years Old is no exception and is our top pick for an after-dinner whisky


Although not generally suited to everyday drinking, it is the perfect accompaniment for dessert – it's incredibly smooth and creamy with notes of honey, spices and heather, and we recommend pairing it with crème brûlée or bread and butter pudding.

No.9

Talisker 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Reference price
£49.30
Mid

A Smoky Maritime Malt from the Isle of Skye

Talisker 10 Year Old is a smoky maritime malt from the Isle of Skye. It’s a rugged and salty peated whisky rounded out with tasting undertones of sweet dried fruit, apple peel and spicy black pepper.


It's produced in the oldest distillery on the coast of the Isle of Skye, where water is drawn from underground springs to bring briny flavours into the mix. It won't appeal to everyone, but if you’re feeling run down, add a drop of Talisker to your hot toddy to clear a runny nose and feel instantly warmed. 

No.10

Haig Club Clubman Single Grain Scotch Whisky

Reference price
£15.00
Low

A Sweet Single Grain Whisky Suited to Mixed Drinks

It’s claimed that John Haig, the founder of the Cameronbridge distillery in 1824, pioneered the art of producing grain whisky. Whether this legend is true or not, his legacy has certainly lived on in the form of Haig Club’s Clubman Single Grain Scotch Whisky.


The stylish signature blue bottle lets you know this is part of a new modern era of Scotch whisky. Sweet, with hints of vanilla and smooth with a clean finish, try a single Clubman with cola and ice. The reason this is a whisky best suited to mixed drinks, though, is because it's somewhat lacking in depth and complexity. 

Get the Most out of Your Whisky by Learning Proper Tasting Protocol

Get the Most out of Your Whisky by Learning Proper Tasting Protocol

Next, you'll need to nose the whisky – put your nose deep into the glass and gently take a sniff. Don’t breathe in too deeply or you’ll regret it! 80% of taste comes from our sense of smell and nosing the whisky helps you to appreciate the unique aromas.


Now for the actual tasting! Take a small sip and hold it in your mouth (long enough for it to fully coat the tongue) before swallowing. Finally, add a drop of water. Instead of diluting the flavour, water allows certain alcohol-soluble flavours and oils to rise to the top, releasing hidden nuances.

More Drams for Whisky Fans

More Drams for Whisky Fans

You've impressed the socks off everyone who'll listen with your new knowledge on Scotch and found a firm favourite, so how about another addition to the liquor cabinet? Check out our other regional whisky guides below!

Summary

You may be looking for a drink to keep you dancing all night, or simply something to help you wind down after a long day, either way, there's a Scotch whisky for every occasion. With a such a wide selection to choose from and armed with our guide, take your time to sample the best of what Scotland has to offer!



Author: Wren Mann

Top 5 Scotch Whiskies

No. 1: Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

No. 2: Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky

No. 3: LaphroaigQuarter Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky

No. 4: Compass Box Hedonism Blended Grain Scotch Whisky

No. 5: Ardbeg UigeadailIslay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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