Called liquid sunshine by playwright George Bernard Shaw, whiskey is a Gaelic word that means “water of life.” This water of life can be made using barley, rye, wheat, or even corn and is referred to in different ways depending on the location and the primary ingredient being distilled. In the United States and Ireland, whiskey is spelled with the “e,” while other parts of the world spell it “whisky” without the “e.” Further, whisky made in Scotland is primarily made using barley and is called Scotch whisky, while whiskey made in the Southeastern United States using corn is called bourbon whiskey. No matter the name, here are some must-try bottles for any whiskey lover.
Torabhaig Single Malt – Allt Gleann
Made in Scotland's Isle of Skye—which is Norse for misty isle and fitting given its Game of Thrones-like ambiance—this elegant, non-chill-filtered expression is named after the stream that flows down the side of the distillery and is the second of four expressions to be released under the Torabhaig Legacy Series (the first is sold out). Using traditional wooden washbacks for fermentation and classic twin copper stills, Torabhaig Distillery has developed a distinctive signature style described as well-tempered peat, bringing a complexity of flavor and delivering a truly balanced character in each sip.
$60.99; Torabhaig.com
Traigh Bhan 19 Year Batch 4
Part of a highly sought-after and collectible Ardbeg series, Batch 4 is the award-winning Scotch icon’s latest expression. It is matured in a slightly higher proportion of Oloroso sherry casks and was inspired by Traigh Bhan beach in Islay, Scotland’s fifth-largest island. It was bottled under a full moon and offers aromas of herbal pine, lime sorbet, and eucalyptus on the nose. On the palate, expect a rush of smokey wood followed by dark chocolate and roasted coffee beans and a finish with medicinal and spicy notes ranging from menthol and fresh lemongrass to clove and white pepper.
$299.99; Ardbeg.com
Shibui Single Grain White Oak
Since its debut stateside, Shibui has become the most-awarded Japanese Whisky in the United States. This varietal is non-chill-filtered and made from Japanese premium indica long-grain rice. It is aged in virgin European white oak casks for 10 years in Okinawa before being bottled. On the nose, there is a buttery, creamy richness with just a hint of fruit. Upon tasting, enjoy layers of tropical fruit salad, sea salt caramel, and whipped cream, as well as warm cornbread straight from the oven. The finish is long but not exaggerated, making the tastebuds eager for another sip.
$179.99; ShibuiWhisky.com
Mulholland American Whiskey
Named for the (in)famous Mulholland Drive in Los Angeles and inspired by diverse and boldly unapologetic creativity in Hollywood and beyond, this brand was founded by longtime friends Walton Goggins, an Emmy-nominated actor best-known for his roles in The Righteous Gemstones, Justified, and Vice Principals, and lauded photographer Matthew Alper. An American whiskey born in Indiana, aged in Kentucky, and finished in California, it features corn, rye, and malted barley and opens with notes of vanilla bean, sweet corn, and baking spices. On the palate, expect dried fruit, rye, and then a beautiful symphony of caramel and toffee.
$36.99; MulhollandDistilling.com