Whiskies beyond borders
The whisky map is in revolution mode! While the old guard—Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and Kentucky—still lead the way with their iconic styles, there’s a fresh crowd on the scene, daring to mix traditional techniques with a dash of creative rebellion. You can now find smoky drams in England, sherry-aged drops in Scandinavia, and even Argentinian whisky with Mizunara notes. Wild, isn’t it?
Totally!
To kick off your adventure, here’s a little guide—a springboard into the journey ahead. These regions and styles might just have a whisky that speaks your language. Remember, no maps or compasses here; curiosity is your guide, and a taste for the unexpected is all you need. Let’s get cracking.
Scotland, Sweet Scotland: the journey begins
Lowlands: subtle and mysterious
The Lowlands offer smooth, elegant drams—floral, citrusy, and just a tad sweet—perfect for beginners dipping their toes into whisky. But don’t mistake subtlety for simplicity; the Lowlands are breaking out of their shell. Bladnoch, for instance, is redefining expectations with sherry-cask whiskies that bring rich, ripe fruit and smoky undertones, proof that even Lowlands whiskies can go deep and intense. For those looking to turn up the volume in their glass, this one’s for you.
Speyside:the candy store you’ll never want to leave
Welcome to the “Golden Triangle” of Scotch. Speyside is the land of iconic distilleries like Glenfiddich and Macallan, where whiskies are sweet, fruity, and just a little magical. Here you’ll taste apple, pear, honey, and even vanilla. Often aged in Oloroso or Amontillado casks, Speyside whiskies bring that deep sherry touch, like an endlessly satisfying sweet-spice combo. It’s like a delicious dessert— except, of course, it’s all whisky!
Pro tip: If you’re someone who loves spotting wine-like notes in your whisky, welcome to your playground! Here, you’ll find double maturations, exotic finishes like Sauternes, Port, and even Ales. For a treat, try a Balvenie 17 Double Wood, or an Aberlour 12.
Here’s a fun experiment: pair the same whisky with a bit of dark chocolate or a selection of cheeses and watch the flavours transform. Each bite brings out something unique in the whisky.
Highlands: an epic adventure for all tastes
If you consider yourself an explorer, in search of new horizons, the Highlands are your map….believe me, it’s like an epic Scottish novel, where every chapter holds a new flavour. Imagine yourself among its rugged peaks, salt-washed coasts, and ever-shifting skies.
And just like its landscapes, Highland whiskies are so diverse that they cannot be classified into a single style. Each bottle is like a chapter full of history, mystery and tradition. Here’s a sneak peek:
- Southern Highlands: Soft and dry, whispering tales of green countryside, for those after a subtle, delicate dram. Aberfeldy or Glenturret are a must.
- Eastern Highlands: Rich, fruity, and complex, they’re perfect for exploring intermediate whisky territory. Glen Garioch 15 is one to try.
- Northern Highlands: Rough and rugged, echoing the sea spray and rocky shores. Old Pulteney is for those who want that coastal vibe in their glass.
- Western Highlands: Oban and Ben Nevis bring a salty, coastal character with a hint of smoke. Perfect if you’re after a bold experience. Go on, award yourself a medal when you reach this level!
Islands: a wild and salty trip
It may not be an “official” whisky region, but Scotland’s whisky-producing islands deserve a place all their own. Places like Arran, Skye, Mull, and Raasay are whisky worlds with their own rugged charm, coastal vibes, and wild, mineral flavors. Each island is a little whisky “micro-climate,” with its own unique terroir and quirks.
Here’s a fun fact: on Raasay, they make whisky with pure rainwater straight from the island. Yes, rainwater. These folks are living in 2824—seriously next-level stuff! Try the Isle of Raasay Single Malt, matured in Manzanilla de Sanlúcar casks. It’s unlike anything else and, let’s be honest, it’s worth a visit.
Islay: where whisky rocks your world
Islay is where whisky goes full rock ‘n’ roll—a festival of bold flavours and emotions. Known for its famously smoky whiskies, this island’s distinctive character blends peat, smoke, and a dash of salty spice, often with hints of seaweed and earthy tones. Distilleries like Laphroaig and Caol Ila deliver such unforgettable drams that, once tasted, they’re etched in your memory. Sipping an Islay is like diving headfirst into a bonfire of aromas—intense, thrilling, and a freaking wild.
Helpful Hint: The smoky, peaty taste of Islay whisky tends to spark strong opinions; it’s either a love affair with that campfire-in-a-glass feeling, or it’s…well, not your thing.
If you’re one for deep, rugged flavours, Islay will hook you and never let go. And if the smoky punch feels like a bit much, no worries, my friend. There are gentler options too. Try a Bunnahabhain or a Bruichladdich; they capture Islay’s spirit but go easy on the intensity. In fact, a Bunnahabhain Stiúireadair is like finding a calm spot in the eye of the storm—rich and rewarding without the full-blown peat power.
Campbeltown: the dram that leaves a mark on you
Although the island today is home to only three distilleries, it more than makes up for it with whiskies that are a real gem. Campbeltown whiskies are robust, deep and full of character, with a complexity that fuses saline, smoky, herbal and a touch of sweet caramel. It is as if the entire spectrum of Scottish flavours were concentrated in each bottle, a true sensory game that leaves no one indifferent.
Now, if we talk about what really puts Campbeltown on the map, Springbank is a must-try name. This distillery is a living legend, known for its unique style and artisanal approach, as well as a reference for true connoisseurs. If by any chance you come across a bottle of the 18-year-old or 21, buy it and treat it like a Ferrari 250 GTO.
Only for connoisseurs: If you are an aficionado looking for something out of the ordinary, something that challenges your palate, Campbeltown is the place to stop. You won’t find easy, monotonous whiskies here.
And if you’re a single malt lover, you can’t miss another of my favourites in the world… a Glen Scotia Victoriana. This whisky, with its blend of robust body and elegance, is by far one of the best I have ever tasted. Brace yourself and look for a special moment. It’s a f***ing roller coaster ride.
Let’s see what else there is…
If all this hasn’t blown your mind…remember, we haven’t even left Scotland yet. Beyond its coasts and hills, we find emerging regions in Asia, America and Europe that offer a wide variety of unique styles and flavours that are revolutionizing the industry with fresh flavours and ideas and a vibrant energy that deserves to be explored. So, without further ado, let’s see what else the world of whiskey has in store for us…
Irish Whiskey: easy-going elegance and smoothness
For those in search of a smooth, easy-going dram, Irish whiskey is just the ticket. Thanks to its triple distillation process, Irish whiskey boasts a characteristic softness, making it perfect for newcomers to the whisky world and seasoned sippers alike who appreciate a gentle touch. Legendary distilleries like Jameson and Bushmills serve up whiskies that are smooth and subtly floral, while Teeling offers a twist with more complex options that range from fruity to lightly spiced.
And then there’s Green Spot (and its luscious sibling, Yellow Spot) or Two Stacks…absolute treasures! These are some of my personal favourites for their superb balance of sweetness, spice, and just a hint of oakiness. If you’re yet to try an Irish whiskey, this is a brilliant place to start. They’re whiskies with charm, a dash of elegance, and, best of all, they’re easy to fall in love with.
American Whiskey: In Bourbon We Trust (and Rye and White Dogs too)
We cross the Atlantic and come to American whiskey, where bourbon and rye take the crown. Bourbon, made primarily from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, stands out for its robust sweetness. Notes of vanilla, caramel and toasted oak make it a comforting and flavourful drink; labels like Elijah Craig or Willett are a must try.
For those looking for more intense and spicy flavours, rye is ideal. This rye whiskey offers a bold profile, with notes of black pepper and clove that give it a dry, complex edge, perfect for enjoying neat or in a Manhattan. While many prefer rye in cocktails, I invite you to try it neat; labels like Rare Character Rye Maple Cask Finish or Old Pepper Barrel Proof (sister to Woodford Reserve in Lexington) will make you feel like you’re in an Old West movie, with bluegrass music playing in the background.
And for the adventurous, there are New Make Spirits or White Dogs: unaged whiskeys that capture the raw essence of the grain and the distillation process. Without the smoothness of a matured whiskey, they are powerful and unique, perfect for bold cocktails like a Sazerac or a Paloma with a 2-day hangover flavour (just kidding!).
Still Curious?We still have the world to travel, and as I know you like strong emotions I have left the coolest for the end….check this out…
Japan
Japanese whisky is a true art form—a kind of liquid poetry, crafted with precision, finesse, and an almost otherworldly elegance. Drawing on Scottish traditions, yet distinctly Japanese, these whiskies are masterfully balanced, clean, and nuanced. Every sip is an invitation to step into a serene, misty Japanese garden: floral and fruity notes swirl together, with just a hint of smoke—a whisper, really—that gently reveals itself if you’re patient enough. It’s like tasting the quiet beauty of a cherry blossom, or the warmth of a sunlit temple.
Some Japanese whiskies can surprise you with the crisp sweetness of a ripe peach, while others envelop you with delicate spices and soft, woody undertones that deepen as they linger. Whiskies like Suntory Yamazaki or Nikka’s Yoichi are not just drinks—they’re experiences, each one pure magic.
If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a Karuizawa, well, that’s something truly special. Karuizawa is more than rare; it’s like uncovering a secret, a bottle that feels timeless and deeply personal, as if it was meant for you alone. WoW! I remember my first taste—it was a revelation, an unforgettable moment that made me fall in love with whisky all over again.
Scandinavia: a breath of fresh air in whisky
There’s a bit of a whisky transformation brewing up north, where Scandinavian distillers are crafting drams that feel like a deep dive into the wilderness itself. Nordic whiskies are bursting with unique, local flavours, capturing the wild spirit of the landscape with indigenous ingredients and barrels made from Nordic woods. Each sip is a taste of crisp forests, rugged coastlines, and herbaceous undergrowth.
Take Stauning Curious from Sweden—it’s fresh and spicy, with an earthy kick that brings mezcal to mind. It’s a whisky that wakes up your senses and adds something completely unexpected to the glass. If you’re up for a dram that’s anything but ordinary, the Nordics might just surprise you. The best part? Every bottle feels like a little trip to Scandinavia without the airfare.
Tasmania: the hidden gem
If Australian whisky isn’t on your radar yet, Tasmania is definitely the place to start. This tiny island down under has quietly but confidently positioned itself as a whisky powerhouse. Distilleries like Lark, Sullivans Cove, and Hellyers Road have been turning heads on the global stage. And Hellyers Road? It’s officially the best-selling local whisky in Australia. With a rich, malty character that comes from the island’s exceptional Tasmanian barley, it offers a complexity that’s both fruity and robust. Here’s the deal: the taste of fresh, orchard fruits, a little vanilla cream, and a subtle maltiness that sticks to the palate in the best way possible. There’s also a touch of smoke here, with the distillery using Scottish-imported smoked barley. It’s not overwhelming, but just enough to give you a warm, comforting hug.
This whisky is a must for anyone wanting a truly Aussie dram, with a little Scottish twist. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be wondering why it took you so long to discover Tasmania’s spirits. (By the way, they have as well a whisky-based eucaliptus liqueur that is something else!)
India: let’s spice things up
For those who like their whisky spicy, and full of character, Amrut is a whisky that will grab your attention and slap you in the face (yes, you hear me well). A product of Indian climate magic, where the heat accelerates maturation, and the result is a whisky with the intensity of spices, honey, and molasses (?¿?), with a lovely underlying richness. The perfect storm that tingles the tastebuds. The richness of Amrut Fusion comes from the balance of Indian and Scottish malts, and it’s an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves whisky with a bit of a wild side. You’ll get notes of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a hint of tropical fruit, followed by a peppery finish that stays with you long after the last sip. Booooouuuummmm!
South America: whisky, peaks and Tango sips
South America has been quietly working its whisky magic, and it’s about time we give it the attention it deserves. Argentina’s La Alazana distillery is all about fresh, distinctive flavours, thanks to its maturation in the high latitudes of Patagonia. The result? A whisky that’s crisp, vibrant, and full of energy. The first thing that hits me when I try it is the brightness—the kind of fresh-cut grass, floral sweetness that you get from a warm spring day. The subtle maltiness is balanced perfectly by just a touch of spice and oak, giving it a delightful depth. It’s not a heavy whisky, but it has enough character to make you sit up and say…wtf?¿?
Over in Buenos Aires, Black Wolf is experimenting with some interesting wood choices, including oak barrels that have been used to age Malbec, Syrah, and even lenga wood. These unique cask choices give the whisky an earthy, smoky finish that I can’t get enough of. It’s not a full-on smoky bomb like Islay, but there’s a gentle, woodsy embrace that lingers on your tongue.
And then there’s Chile, where Wüfko is making waves with a whisky that’s as wild and feral as the landscape it’s created in. Distilled with malts from the Araucanía region and water from the Coastal Range, Wüfko captures the essence of Chile’s extreme climate. Its rest in oak barrels for 6 years in a climate of extreme contrasts (cold winter and hot summer) gives it an accelerated maturation, equivalent to 12 years in Scotland. Woah.
The result? A rich, complex whisky with a deep, almost earthy profile. There’s a mix of dark fruits—think dried cherries and blackberries—combined with a bit of smoke and a sharp, spicy kick. But what really makes Wüfko stand out is its backstory. It’s one of the first whiskies in Chile to be created by a woman—Evelyn Leyton—whose innovation and passion have brought a refreshing perspective to the Chilean whisky scene. Bravo indeed!
Tips for a whisky-fueled christmas
Something tells me you’re in the mood for a good whisky right now… and what better time to enjoy it than during the holiday season? With all the gatherings, dinners, and family commitments, why not spice things up with a blind whisky tasting? It’s the perfect way to discover new drams, have a laugh, and find out who has the sharpest palate in the group! Trust me, the results are always entertaining.
Here are a few tips to make your whisky adventure a smash hit:
- The mystery bottle challenge: Ask each guest to bring a mystery bottle. No hints allowed—surprise is key! Make sure no one knows what anyone else is bringing. It’s like the ultimate game of whisky detective.
- Blind tasting order: Once the bottles are lined up, take turns sampling them in a set order, ensuring no one knows which is which. It’s like a little whisky treasure hunt for your taste buds. Encourage everyone to talk about what they’re tasting—flavours, textures, aromas—don’t be shy. You might discover a flavour you never even knew existed! (And a pro tip: make sure you write down your impressions, or you’ll forget everything after the first few sips. Trust me on this one.)
- Be bold, be curious: This is your moment to explore! Try whisky cocktails, experiment with different ice cubes, or even take the plunge into a smoky dram if you haven’t before. Life’s too short not to try new things—whisky’s no exception.
- Whisky exploration at its best: This blind tasting is all about having fun and being a whisky explorer. Whether you’re discovering new favourites or getting into a heated debate over which dram was the best, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.
And don’t forget, friends…
The key to enjoying a great whisky isn’t just in the taste, it’s about moderation and respect—for the drink, the moment, and those around you. Sip it slowly, savour it, and share it. That’s what makes the experience truly special. A glass in good company is a chance to unwind, tell stories, and make lasting memories. In the end, whisky reminds us of life’s essentials: to be present, cherish the little moments, and revel in the joy of sharing time with the people who matter most.
Sláinte!!!
If you are interested in going deeper or having a personalized experience, don’t hesitate to contact me. Private tastings and immersive experiences are a great way to learn and enjoy in good company. Let’s talk!