Best whisky gifts this Christmas

1. The best gifts for... whisky traditionalists

For some enthusiasts, whisky is all about classic, heritage brands known for exquisite craftsmanship. When buying for a traditionalist, consider the type of whisky they prefer.

While the two most well-known varieties are single malt and blended, there are actually five in total, including blended malt, single grain and blended grain. There’s also provenance to consider. For a classic Islay single malt, Talisker is a great choice, made by the sea like a true maritime malt. On the other hand, you have The Singleton of Dufftown, based in the heart of Speyside and a wonderful representation of single malts from the region.

TALISKER 10 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT SCOTCH

This bottle of Talisker has a famously rich and powerful smoky flavour, with a warm peppery finish. The smoky flavour comes through thanks to the peat that’s burned during the malting process. Crafted on the shores of the Isle of Skye, it carries the salted smoke of an island weathered by wind and waves.

JOHNNIE WALKER GOLD LABEL RESERVE BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve is a Gold Medal award-winning blend created by Master Blender Jim Beveridge to celebrate nearly 200 years of the art of blending. This blend includes all the bold flavours that make Johnnie Walker legendary. Rich fruit and vanilla alongside spicy, sweet woody notes and subtle smokiness – every flavour shines through in this vibrant whisky.

2. The best gifts for... stylish innovators

Although whisky has a reputation for being time-honoured and perhaps even a little old-fashioned, some distilleries offer a modern twist on tradition. Either through new techniques, unique ingredients, or fresh perspectives, the resulting spirits and serves from these innovative distilleries are original and exciting. Whisky lovers with an experimental side, will love these contemporary ideas.

JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE LABEL ICE CHALET

Inspired by Alpine landscapes and the bold beauty of winter, Master Blender Emma Walker created this unique blend made from rare whiskies from some of our most northern and highest altitude distilleries: Brora, Clynelish and Dalwhinnie. Expect an unrivalled depth of flavour, with a sweet vanilla, spiced apple and plum nose and a fruity palate with undertones of soft wood and gentle smoke. With its smooth combination of gentle smoke, spice and rich fruits, this unique expression will transport you to a luxurious winter wonderland.

SINGLETON OF DUFFTOWN 12 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT WHISKY

The Singleton has quietly become the whisky to pair with your desserts. The unmistakable taste of The Singleton comes from a unique combination of European Oak casks that bring rich fruit aromas, and American Oak casks that release honeyed hints of vanilla, make it a perfect accompaniment to moments of sweet indulgence.

3. The best gifts for... home bartenders

A beautiful bottle of whisky is a focal point on any bar cart, and for the budding mixologist, a whisky gift set that features special glassware can further elevate their home bar. Or, for a one-of-a-kind, personalised gift, design your own custom box with a classic bottle, some beautiful tumblers, and a set of whisky stones.

SINGLETON OF DUFFTOWN 12 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT WHISKY WITH TWO GLASSES

With a decadent aroma of toasted nuts, rich fruits, brown sugar, and coffee, The Singleton of Dufftown is a well-balanced whisky that can be enjoyed by all. Perfect neat, over ice, or in a highball with soda or ginger ale, these matching glasses are the ideal accompaniment to explore all the flavours of this delicious Speyside whisky. 

JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE LABEL GIFT PACK WITH TWO CRYSTAL GLASSES

Only 1 in 10,000 casks from our unparalleled reserves of aging Scotch – including some from long-closed ‘ghost’ distilleries – is considered to have the remarkable depth of character needed to craft this exceptionally smooth whisky. Presented in an elegant gift box with two crystal tumblers, this is an extra-special gift.

4. The best gifts for... adventure seekers

For adventurers eager to push boundaries in their whisky experiences, look to special releases and limited editions – especially those attached to big-name master blenders and world-renowned chefs. Adventure-seekers love to explore and will appreciate your thoughtfulness in helping them discover bold new flavours.

LAGAVULIN OFFERMAN 2024 CARIBBEAN CASK FINISH EDITION

Nick Offerman's limited editions are interpretations of his many passions. He works closely with Lagavulin from distillation to maturation and the packaging details — resulting in a first-class authentic whisky at cask strength that delights novices and connoisseurs worldwide. The 4th edition matured for 11 years and was then aged for 8 months in ex-Caribbean rum casks. The result is a rare combination of classic Islay Single Malt and the exotic sweetness of Caribbean rum. A truly unique release.

LAGAVULIN 2021 DISTILLERS EDITION SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

Distilled in 2006 and bottled in 2021, this distiller’s edition does not disappoint. The whisky has been double-matured and finished in Pedro Ximenez cask wood for an intense sweetness that blends beautifully with the smokiness of the regular Lagavulin release. It’s a deliciously complex sip that will impress those with more daring palates.

5. The best gifts for... seasoned collectors

For the collector, try a rare or limited-edition whisky that could increase in value over time. Distillers periodically release small amounts of highly collectible bottles for special occasions or as part of one-off collaborations. When buying for a whisky collector, find out what’s on their dream list, or set them off on a new series they can continue collecting in the future.

6. The best gifts for... the one who has it all

If you’re buying for a serious whisky lover who already owns a whisky water dropper, a set of Glencairn glasses, and special ice cube trays, what’s left? Well, there’s always something to discover... Whisky-infused soaps? Whisky-scented candles? A handheld cocktail smoker? The possibilities are endless when you think outside the bottle.

From distillery tours to rare releases, discover more on our sister site, Malts.com.

7. Don't forget to engrave

For a truly special keepsake, add your own personalised engraving to your bottle. Simply select this option at check-out, and add your message. 

SHOP ENGRAVABLE BOTTLES.