50 Searched for gifts

Midway through the first month of the year, the pace of new releases has picked right up, especially for bourbon. High West has debuted a blend of sourced straight bourbons that range in age from 6 to 20 years, while Penelope has partnered with a southern furniture company on a bespoke bourbon blend. In single barrel bourbon, Knob Creek has launched the second whiskey in its Bold Pick collection, Still 630 has kick-started its celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. with a line of 12 bottled in bond single barrels, and Wyoming Whiskey has unveiled the latest edition of its annually released single barrel. And calling all Woodford fans: This week brings the return of Double Double Oaked, now in its second year of nationwide availability. 
That’s it for bourbon! Elsewhere in American whiskey, New Riff is back with this year's batch of Balboa rye, and Rebel Bourbon is trotting out its discontinued root beer-flavored whiskey once more. And from overseas, Royal...

Selecting a gift for the whisky lover in your life can be tricky, given the range of styles and whether their bar cart is already fully stocked with their favorite bottles. So, we’ve rounded up an array of accessories, gadgets, sweet treats, and cocktail kits (whiskey included) to make for some unique gifts this year. There’s even a Western-themed gift for the tequila lover. Of course, you can always check online stores of your recipient's favorite distillery.
If it's a great whisky you’re after, there is no shortage of excellent options in our Top 20 list. An ultimate gift guide of our favorite whiskies this year, it considers affordability, availability, and special appeal. 
Gifts With a Personal Touch
Elijah Craig Char No. 3 Cologne
Elijah Craig is extending its bourbon beyond sipping, crossing into the realm of men’s fragrance. No. 3 Cologne was designed to emulate the sensory experience of the label’s bourbon. Crafted from...

While they’re already serving up robust cocktails in inviting atmospheres, these distilleries are getting a makeover this holiday season—transformed into pop-up bars with festive lights, holiday decor, and playful themes to bring holiday cheer. We’ve rounded up 13 distilleries that are pulling out all the stops, with looks ranging from winter wonderlands to iconic Christmas movie-themed makeovers. There’s plenty of yule-themed fun at these distilleries.
Artisan Distillery & Craft Bar – The Elf Bar
San Antonio, Texas
Open through December 24th
Artisan Distillery and Craft Bar in downtown San Antonio mainly makes vodka, though it also produces a handful of whiskeys. This holiday season, its downtown location has been turned into a North Pole-themed wonderland inspired by the film “Elf”. Book a table and enjoy an interactive experience filled with surprises, karaoke, Christmas trivia, and of course, specialty cocktails to sip...

Buffalo Trace Distillery is getting ready for its 27th annual Holidays at the Trace celebration, set to run from December 4-31, and tickets go on sale tomorrow, November 18, at 10 a.m. EST. The distillery is offering several holiday-themed experiences, including light shows and a cocktail trail for bourbon lovers.
The Buffalo Trace Light Trail Experience offers a family-friendly after-hours walk through thousands of holiday lights, running for 12 nights across three consecutive weekends—December 4-7, December 11-14, and December 18-21. Guests can walk through a 60-foot-long light tunnel and several themed light scenes. Seasonal food and drinks will be available along the walk, including hot chocolate and tastings of Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream for guests over the age of 21. Reservations are required, though the walk is free. Register here under Spirited Nights. 
Adult guests at the Light Trail Experience can upgrade their visit for $25 per person and enjoy the...

International travel opens up a world of unforgettable experiences and a world of opportunity for whisky shoppers. Airports, border shops, ports, airplanes, cruise ships, and ferries all offer a chance to buy whisky in Travel Retail with no taxes or duties, and thus potentially cheaper than what you’d pay at home. Over the years, Travel Retail has become very big business, with airports in particular offering sophisticated high-end shopping venues.
Modern Travel Retail is engineered to steer a captive audience through a gauntlet of eager salespeople and flashy advertising for alcohol, tobacco, fragrances, cosmetics, oversized chocolate bars, toys, gifts, souvenirs, sunglasses, electronics, and travel accessories. In some airports, passengers must pass through the shopping areas right after security before they can reach the main lounge.
But even the most time-pressed traveler will note that not every bottle offers a fabulous deal. The savings are nearly impossible to...

Your dad has enough ties, novelty T-shirts, coffee mugs, and socks. Upgrade your gifting game and get him something that will replace a forced smile with a wide grin: a wonderful bottle. Whether he’s a seasoned sipper or a whisky neophyte, we’ve selected 12 standout spirits ranging from special scotch single malts to cult-favorite bourbons to accessible, underrated ryes—and a few exceptional whisky-adjacent options—all guaranteed to earn you favorite-child status. Here’s hoping whatever you buy him, Dad will crack the bottle and pour a glass for you, too.  
93 points - Yamazaki 12 year old Japanese single malt, 43%, $150
A mainstay among the best Japanese whiskies for good reason. This single malt whisky matures in three types of barrels: bourbon, oloroso sherry, and mizunara oak. The resulting liquid is floral, light, complex, and balanced. It’s pleasing, sip after sip.
92 points - Bowmore 15 year old scotch single malt, 43%...

If you’re traveling to Kentucky as a whiskey tourist, chances are the state’s northern reaches aren’t first on your list of places to visit. That’s by no means a snub as much as a statement of fact—the vast majority of the state’s distilleries are dotted across the center of the commonwealth, in the “Amber Triangle” formed by Lexington, Louisville, and Bardstown. These days, however, there’s a hub of whiskey activity humming to the north, with Covington at the center of it all. Here's your guide to spending 48 hours in Covington.

The city of Covington (population 40,984) lies just across the river from Cincinnati, a travel hub with an airport bigger and more accessible than what you’ll find in Louisville or Lexington. Covington touts a rich, albeit lesser-known distilling history (one of its politicians, John G. Carlisle, was a co-creator of the Bottled in Bond Act, for starters) that’s resulted in a...

For any gathering, whether it be your next whisky club meeting or an informal tasting with friends, there are better carrying options for your favorite whiskies than a simple cardboard box. This array of carrier bags, which come in a variety of styles and sizes, meet all your practical needs while also offering a bit of style. Most of them have room for tumblers, barware, and other accoutrements, and they also make great gifts.
Leather Whiskey Carrier, $200

(Pictured above left) Crafted from 3.5 mm full-grain cowhide that, in time, will fade to a natural patina. This bag holds a bottle of whisky and four tumblers (not included), making it ideal to share a pour when visiting friends or picnicking. Leather dividers protect the glasses. 
Double Barrel Bottle Tote, $290

(Pictured above right) If you belong to a whisky club, you'll want this sleek tote to transport prized whiskies to bottle shares. Pictured with an optional leather case that includes two...

With Valentine's Day fast approaching, it's easy to fall on reliable standbys like a dozen roses and a candlelit dinner, or for the whisky lover, a favorite bottle. While all are fitting, this year, go the extra mile for that special someone who enjoys a dram with one of these whisky-centric gifts. Step out of the hours-long florist line and opt for a flower-adorned bourbon cocktail kit, or treat the whiskey lover in your life to a customized bottle with a special message on the label. Single malt scotch lovers will be head over heels with a truffle assortment infused with their favorite whiskies. 
J. Mattingly 1845 Custom Bourbon Experience 
Kentucky-based J. Mattingly 1845 is offering a choice of their signature double staved bourbon or rye in a customized 750ml bottle for $99.00. Send a sweet message with a fully customized label, followed by a selection from three different bottle shape options...

The best high-proof whiskies offer a combination of balance, power, and amped-up flavor. Generally defined as being above 50% ABV but often going far higher than that, they make for great whisky sipping any time of year but are perhaps best suited for the winter months. Sipping over ice or with a bit of water—which coaxes out additional flavors—is the preferred tasting method for most people, though some brave souls enjoy them neat. We've assembled this list of high-powered sippers that will make great gifts for the holiday season, or you can enjoy them on your own. There's quite a bit of variety here, with American whiskeys leading the way, joined by a strong contingent of scotch, an Irish expression, and an Irish-American blend. The good news is that they're all priced at $100 or lower, with some coming far below that threshold.
13 High-Proof Whiskies Perfect For The Season
95 points - Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Special Release Coy...

When shopping for the whisky lover(s) in your life, it might be tempting to get them a bottle of whisky and call it a day. A beloved bottling is a thoughtful gift, to be sure (and our Top 20 list is a great place to look when going that route), but there are plenty of whisky-centric presents that are more personalized to certain interests, hobbies, or livelihoods. From whisky-themed jewelry and apparel to whisky-infused chocolates, whisky-scented candles, and even whisky-branded golf putters, there are a number of more distinctive gifts for all the pals and loved ones in your life who appreciate whisky.
Stuff Those Stockings
Tasting Note Notebook ($15)

Great for either the blossoming whisky taster in your life or the seasoned pro, this 48-page memo book from Field Notes is a fantastic way to log a whisky journey, and the notes tasted along the way. As a bonus, it's waterproof, so there's no need to cry over spilled whisky (unless it's more than a splash, of...

Update December 9, 2024: The two bottles of Willett sold above the pre-sale estimate and achieved $13,750 each. The sale price includes the buyer's premiums/fees.
Nine years ago, Lexington, Kentucky-based priest Father Jim Sichko wanted to bring something that embodied the spirit of Kentucky on a trip to Vatican City to meet with Pope Francis. Sichko’s gift? Pappy Van Winkle 23 year old bourbon. The moment, predictably, went viral, and ever since, Sichko has been bringing Pope Francis rare and allocated whiskeys as gifts.
Sichko’s visit with His Holiness this past May included two rare Willett Distillery bourbons, but those bottles weren’t gifted; instead they were signed by Pope Francis and will be heading to a Sotheby’s Whisky & Whiskey auction, with all proceeds benefiting a quartet of charities. The auction opens for bidding on November 20 and will end with a live sale on December 7.
What Are the Papal Willett Distillery...

Pat Fallon’s health was rapidly deteriorating when he reached out to Francisco Melendez in 2022.
The 52 year old former Marine was in full kidney failure following a series of medical misfortunes stemming from a lung injury. With dialysis as his lifeline, “The only solution was a new kidney,” Fallon recounts, “but no one I knew was a viable donor.” To amplify his plea, Fallon tapped Melendez, founder of a Texas nonprofit and The Sinner’s Club, a whiskey group on Facebook of which Fallon was a member.
Melendez raced into action, blasting Fallon’s dire situation to the entire 5,800-member group. Within minutes, a dozen offers to get tested flooded in; within weeks, five had completed the test. One, a bubbly coordinator for an audiologist and part-time bartender named Brittany McCaffety, was a perfect match. “I called Francisco and Pat and said ‘This is happening!’ and we all cried on the call,” McCaffety...

The month of February is off to a solid start, with some notable older whiskies going under the hammer. Unicorn Auctions held two sales this month already, with the pick of the bottles reaching five-figure sums. Van Winkle rarities such as Van Winkle Special Reserve 20 year old for Cork ‘n Bottle ($22,500) and Old Rip Van Winkle Family Reserve Delilah’s 10th Anniversary Private Barrel ($19,800) topped the February No Reserves auction, and would make proud additions to any collector’s trophy cabinet. Speyside Whisky Auctions scored big this month too, setting a substantial new house record when it sold a bottle of Macallan 1950 Tales of The Macallan Volume I for $62,940. The second release in this Macallan series, aged for 73 years, was recently released and priced at $89,000.
Unicorn Auctions January 2024 Auction Parts I–III 
Auctions ended February 4th


American: Willett Family Estate 22 year old Doug’s Black Ink Private Barrel...

Stocking stuffers are usually the Christmas items to be purchased last, but they can also be first on the list of most fun and memorable of gifts on Christmas morning. We've assembled a list of small items for your whisky lover's stocking, though there are plenty more in Santa's workshop, of course. A bottle of whisky is perhaps a bit too large for the average foot, but many whisky makers offer their products in smaller bottles—Blanton's, for example, is available in a three-pack of 50 mini bottles, and numerous other whisky makers do similar things. Distillery gift shops are also fantastic places to hunt for hidden mini-treasures, whether they be whiskies or other modest little gems.
Sláinte Cuffed Beanie  
$25
toastthemoon.blog
Whisky is great any time of the year, but there’s something about its warming powers in the colder months; just like this black cuffed beanie. Simple, stylish, and a definite conversation...

While whisky itself makes a great gift for aficionados, those whisky-related extras can be a fun add-on for any whisky lover. Whether it's Pappy Van Winkle cigars, a Redbreast birdfeeder for the yard, or your very own Jack Daniel's barrel, here are some holiday gifts to suit a variety of whisky lovers' fancies. You can also smoke your own cocktails, or for the high-rollers, gift a bourbon sculpture to help liven up the whisky room. Happy shopping!
 
Flight Holder
$20
mysticbarrels.com
This tray is handcrafted in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from Kentucky whiskey barrels, including Heaven Hill and Jim Beam. It is designed to hold three Glencairn glasses (not included) and serves as a nice presentation for tasting flights.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Scented Candle
$25
buffalotracedistillery.com
Bourbon lovers will relish coming home to the scent of their favorite whiskey. Made by Candleberry Candle Co., this 26 oz. jar...

The holiday season is swiftly approaching, and with it, a slew of extra-special releases that would make interesting end-of-year gifts. For the car lover in your life, there is Bowmore's latest opus in partnership with luxury British automaker Aston Martin. Also out is a new edition from the Heaven's Door Bootleg series—the crème de la crème of the brand, which was created in partnership with Bob Dylan. Of great interest to us is the new release from Old Overholt, a 10 year old, cask strength rye priced at $100. That seems like quite a departure for this price-friendly label that has long been a favorite of rye lovers, though this release is in fact a throwback to Old Overholt ryes of the previous century. 
Elsewhere in new whisky, High West returns with a fresh edition of The Prisoner's Share, this one using no sourced whiskey, as it's 100% made at High West's Wanship...

When Prohibition Pig opened just over a decade ago, high-quality Southern fare with barbecue and a big-time whiskey program were almost impossible in Vermont. But this bar and restaurant changed the paradigm for both, and it remains the premier stop for whisky lovers in the Green Mountain State.
Prohibition Pig sits right on Main Street in the heart of Waterbury’s historic district, about three minutes from the highway exit that’s also the gateway to Stowe, Vermont’s most famous ski resort and vibrant four-season tourism spot. Skiers, hikers, and visitors all year round routinely make the short (l5-20 minutes) exodus from Stowe–with no shortage of great bars and restaurants of its own–to reach the Pig. Waterbury is also home to another foodie favorite, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, whose factory tour is one of the state’s most popular attractions. You can be indulging childhood sweet tooth fantasies one moment and five minutes later belly...

In planning out a wedding day, selecting a special location is the first big step. Once upon a time, a distillery wouldn’t have been on the menu of choices. But as whiskey has grown ever more popular, distilleries and matrimony have become an unlikely pair. Weddings, meet whiskey.
Distillers around the country have added event spaces to host weddings, creating distinct and memorable places where brides and grooms can celebrate their love—for each other, of course, but also for their favorite spirit. You can get married in the rickhouse, have your reception in the tasting room, and take photos next to stills. Your guests can sample the distillery’s whiskeys and tour areas that aren’t usually open to the public.

“From the barrels to the stills, distillery properties offer really unique elements that a traditional wedding venue won’t have,” says Becca George, owner and event planner at Nashville, Tennessee-based wedding firm Modern...

Father’s Day is this Sunday, and we have plenty of cool whiskies that will make perfect gifts. In addition to those, you could consult our Summer 2023 Best Values and Editors’ Choice lists to make sure you've got all the options covered. This week, the whisky world is awash with new expressions. New scotches include Laphroaig Càirdeas and six age-statement blends from Ian Macleod’s Isle of Skye range. In addition, Woodford Reserve has a new bottled in bond wheat whiskey, and Heaven Hill offers a wheated whiskey from its microdistillery at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville. Meanwhile, Texas and Ireland meet, as Clonakilty has collaborated with Garrison Brothers on a new single malt that's finished in Garrison Brothers casks. Read on for more.
Laphroaig Càirdeas White Port & Madeira Casks
Style: Single malt
Origin: Scotland (Islay)
Age: Not stated

Just because dad never complains, we so often take advantage of him by not putting too much thought and effort into Father’s Day. Sure, he’ll say “thank you” to another sleeve of golf balls, of course he’ll be grateful for one more pair of dress socks, but he won’t truly be touched. This year, though, Pernod Ricard USA wants you to give your dad something that truly befits and echoes his years of devotion and nurturing. 
Well-aged whiskies, cognacs, and tequilas, like fatherhood, requires a lifetime of devotion and nurturing. Think about it. They need to be carefully added to aging vessels and maintained over the years. They need to be cultivated through nuanced aging methods, careful cask selection, and then exemplary blending. Do all that, and one day you might have such high-marque spirits as Aberlour 12 Year Scotch Whisky, Jefferson's Reserve, Redbreast 12-Year-Old, and Martell Blue Swift.

Aberlour 12 Year Scotch Whisky...

Tequila is made only in Mexico—and primarily in the state of Jalisco, which lies in the center of the country like a beating heart. Like so much of the Mexican countryside, Jalisco is remarkably scenic, offering views of high mountain ranges and scrubland, rolling fields of blue agave and Pacific Ocean beaches. While best known for tequila, Jalisco is also the birthplace of Mariachi music, whose singers will serenade you on many occasions during your visit.
Jalisco’s charming town of Tequila is to its namesake spirit what the town of Sonoma is to its surrounding wine country, and is the heart and soul of the region’s production. Located only 40 miles northwest of the cosmopolitan city of Guadalajara (population 1.5 million), Tequila is home to La Rojeña, Latin America’s oldest distillery (1798), and the only one of three distilleries owned by Mexico’s largest tequila maker, Jose Cuervo, that offers tours. With its hotels, restaurants, and...

Shopping for your favorite whisky lover can be a tough mission even when you know their personal whisky preferences—especially if you’re looking to surprise them. Thus every year, we scour the planet to bring you some fun gift options to suit the whisky fan in your life. 
We’ve included a few special bottles on this year’s list, but note that we recommend whiskies all year long, topped by our annual Top 20 list, which weighs quality, affordability, accessibility, and x-factor. You can also check out the magazine and website, where the Buying Guide offers scores and reviews. Each issue also our includes our Best Value, Editors’ Choice, and Collectible picks.
It’s a big whisky world out there. If you want to gift something other than whisky, or if your special someone keeps the whisky bar well-stocked on their own, consider these items and experiences this holiday season.
Whisky Gifts to Suit the...

It's a big weekend for whisky lovers out west. For the first time in three years, Stranahan's is staging its Snowflake Festival at the distillery in Denver to celebrate the latest release of its Snowflake single malt. The festivities kick off today, and bottles will go on sale tomorrow morning. Tonight is the first-ever WhiskyFest Las Vegas, with whiskies being poured by Bruichladdich, WhistlePig, Hibiki, and many others, and seminars by whisky makers including Dewar's, Maker's Mark, and Suntory.
WhiskyFest is a great way to taste whiskies as soon as they're released, and this week there are some notable names with new expressions. George Dickel brings back its 17 year old Tennessee whiskey, now with wider distribution, and Heaven Hill announces the latest Parker's Heritage release, a blend of aged bourbons. Meanwhile, Johnnie Walker has debuted its latest bottling for the Lunar New Year, which celebrates the Year of the...

This dazzling fall season thus far has included WhiskyFest events in San Francisco and New York City, and crowds of avid fans flocked to both to taste hard-to-find drams, new releases, and some familiar favorites as well. WhiskyFest San Francisco was held October 28th, and New York followed on November 3rd. Next up is Las Vegas on December 2nd. 
At the Marriott Marquis in San Francisco, VIP ticket holders had an opportunity to taste rarefied pours including a 30 year old single grain whisky from Fuji Whisky, Benromach Heritage 40 year old, and St George Spirits 40th Anniversary single malt. Buffalo Trace had skipped the 2021 WhiskyFest events, but was back this year to a tidal wave of people at the booth. “Right when we started it was a mad dash of humanity—a wall of humans came straight for the Antique Collection,” says Buffalo Trace brand manager Tyler Himes. “After that first hour though, we had great conversations, and a lot of people...

The Lunar New Year is welcomed with fireworks, lanterns, lion parades, gifts, amazing food, and of course, some fine whiskies. Also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, Lunar New Year is a 15 day celebration based on the lunar calendar and is one of the most widely observed holidays in the world. The festivity lasts about two weeks—this year's Lunar New Year runs from February 1 to 15—and is capped by the appearance of the full moon.Each year is named after an animal from the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. This is the Year of the Tiger, and those born under this sign are believed to be courageous, enthusiastic, and ambitious. Families travel great distances to be together to feast, drink, pray, exchange gifts, and honor the traditions and superstitions of the season in order to bring health, prosperity, good luck, and a bountiful harvest in the year ahead. The celebrations begin with the New Year's Eve reunion dinner and culminate with the Lantern Festival. Beyond...

Lunar New Year kicks off on Tuesday, February 1, and Johnnie Walker is celebrating the Year of the Tiger with a special bottling for Blue Label designed by a Chinese artist. This year's festivities will last until the full moon appears on February 15, and whisky is part of the mix as always. Elsewhere, Kentucky-based Rabbit Hole has released the first whiskey in its new Distillery Series, which will highlight small batch, cask-strength bottlings. This week there's also a new rye from Jim Rutledge's Cream of Kentucky, as well as bourbons from Puncher's Chance and Buzzard's Roost. Read on for full details.Johnnie Walker Blue Label Year of the TigerStyle: Blended whiskyOrigin: ScotlandAge: Not statedABV: 40% Price: $250Release: January 2022Availability: LimitedNeed to know:Each year, Johnnie Walker releases a special Blue Label bottling (which is not a new whisky, just new packaging) in honor of Lunar New Year. This year’s limited-edition design, which celebrates the Year of the Tiger...

The year is wrapping up, and if you're still in search of a whisky gift, we have pairing ideas, more splurge-worthy items, and of course, our year-end Top 20 list is full of special and exciting bottles. It's also easier than ever to have whiskey delivered to your doorstep, but laws vary by state, so be sure to read our report on the developing landscape of direct shipping.There are a few new releases out this week, notably, an 18 year old from Crown Royal; Diageo has announced the Distillers Editions for its popular single malts like Lagavulin, Oban and Talisker; and Firestone & Robertson adds a blended bourbon to its Experimental line. Read on for full details.Crown Royal 18 year oldStyle: Blended whiskyOrigin: CanadaAge: 18 year oldABV: 40%Price: $140Release: December 2021Availability: Limited; NationwideNeed to know:This new 18 year old whisky is the oldest in Crown Royal’s current lineup.Whisky Advocate says:Crown Royal discontinued its XR expression in 2019, and as is...

As you make your way through the holiday rush, we've rounded up some gift ideas to help complete your list. There's a little something for all sorts of whisky lovers in your life, be they in need of new ways to bring the party, beautiful bottles to bedazzle their shelves, and much, much more. And if you're looking for something smaller (and edible) we have a list of great pairing gifts as well.Of course, don't forget the ultimate whisky gift guide, our annual Top 20 list, which captures the most exciting whiskies from the year, weighing quality, affordability, availability, and x-factor. We're counting down to Whisky of the Year on December 9, with the full list revealed on the following day.Whisky Gifts for Your Bar and Beyond
Bring Your Bar Absolutely EverywhereHave you ever wished you had access to your home bar while you were traveling? This backpack ($248) aims to give you just that. Complete with 17 different components, among them a stainless steel hawthorne strainer...

It’s gift giving season, and if you’re looking for something special for the whisky lover in your life, we've got you covered. There are plenty of snackable gifts available, from popcorn to barbecued ribs, specifically designed to be paired with whiskey. We also have a few other recommendations including books, luggage, and more whisky related items that will enhance your tasting experience. There are some exciting new whiskies out this week that also would make great gifts. Woodford Reserve adds to its Master’s Collection with a beer-inspired malt whiskey, High West brings its High Country single malt to a wider stage, and Barrell Craft Spirits adds two new straight bourbon blends to its lineup. Read on for full details.Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection: Five-Malt Stouted MashStyle: Straight maltOrigin: KentuckyAge: Not statedABV: 45.2%Price: $130Release: December 2021Availability: LimitedNeed to know:A version of Woodford’s straight malt whiskey, this new addition to...

You may be planning on gifting a loved one a bottle of whisky this holiday season, but pay mind to their stocking, too, and spice it up with these whisky-centric snacks or a gift card for them. From salty to sweet, these delicious bites call on Irish whiskey, scotch, and Tennessee whiskey to deliver a full tasting experience.Munchable Delights, Paired Perfectly With Whisky
A Poppable Bag of Whisky MiniaturesWe've sung the virtues of the whisky miniin the past—they're portable, inexpensive, and an easy way to try something new. Around the start of football season, Tullamore D.E.W. introduced this 6-pack of minis of its Original Irish whiskey called Tully Chips ($29 through Caskers), giving the sports-minded whisky drinker something new to bring to the watch party. Packaged to look like an actual bag of chips, this works just as great as a fun and surprising holiday gift. And pairing whiskey with chips is a winning combination. Tayto is considered the holy grail of Irish potato...

Here at Whisky Advocate, we hear one question more than any other: “What whisky should I buy?” Whether for yourself or a loved one, the gift of whisky—a well-considered, out-of-the-ordinary bottle—is perfect for any occasion, and we offer plenty of tools to help you find the right one: from Best Value and Editors' Choice picks to the annual Top 20 list, plus the full Buying Guide with over 4,000 whisky reviews, sortable by price, score, and more.But what about the whisky lover who already has a fully stocked bar, or the one whose taste is so discerning you're afraid of picking something they won't like? Each issue of Whisky Advocate includes recommended whisky gear (everything from decanters to cocktail picks to glassware), and we've made some additional picks below. There's something here for every budget and all kinds of whisky lovers, including the at-home bartender, the aspiring taster, the outdoor enthusiast, and the cigar aficionado. Some of these come with whisky, while...

With the transition to summer and the slow reopening of businesses, new whisky releases seem to be picking up.First, a couple of e-commerce specials. Metallica-led brand Blackened is rolling out a special box set for its 100th batch. For the first time ever, a non-band member—master blender and distiller Rob Dietrich—created the playlist of songs that was used for the whiskey's "sonic enhancement" process. Blackened Batch 100 is packaged with two 12-inch vinyl picture discs of that playlist, as well as a copy of the Blackened Zine; the set costs $149 and is available only through Spirited Gifts and Cask Cartel.For Father's Day, Teeling Irish whiskey is offering a special bottling of its single malt, engraved with "Raise Your Spirits," and donating $5 from every sale to #RaiseYourSpirits, a charitable initiative led by part-owner Bacardi to support hospitality workers. The engraved bottles are for sale for $60 through Reserve Bar.Now for whiskies that are available at traditional...

Distilling your own whiskey at home can end badly—possibly in injury or arrest. But for those interested in crafting a custom dram, including whisky clubs, there is an increasingly available and legal option designed to take you from drinker to distiller. Craft distillers like Foundry Distilling Co. in West Des Moines, Iowa and J. Rieger & Co. in Kansas City, Missouri allow customers to design and execute their own whiskey, from mash to maturation.“There's a lot of mystique, especially for the vast majority of people, about what it is to make whiskey,” Nathan Perry, head distiller at J. Rieger, says. “So many people don't understand the process. You get to actually do it, be involved, give your input.”Here's how it works: a distiller will sit down with you to discuss your ideas and flavor preferences. Some distilleries offer only their tried and true proportions of grain, called mashbills, while others will work with you to create your own recipe. Once the details are...

As the COVID-19 public health crisis deepens, more and more people are becoming isolated by practicing social distancing—staying home and limiting interactions with others as much as possible. At Whisky Advocate, we're doing the same, with our staff working remotely. It puts a crimp in some activities, like tastings, but it's the right decision for everyone's health.The coming days will be hard for all of us who enjoy gathering with friends around a good dram. But social distancing doesn't have to be miserable. As we remember that this practice will help save lives, we can also take steps to lighten the anxiety, stress, and loneliness caused by isolation. Now is the time to open up that bottle you've been saving!First up: Join us onInstagram Live every Friday at 3 p.m. Eastern. The Whisky Advocate tasting panel typically tastes together on Fridays, but that's changed for now. In an effort to keep our palates and each other engaged, we're opening up the Whisky Advocate tasting room...

Scoring a rare bottle of whiskey can feel like a victory unto itself, and St. Louis Blues left wing Robby Fabbri took that winning spirit to entirely new heights. The Blues won their first-ever Stanley Cup Wednesday night, defeating the Boston Bruins 4 to 1 in a winner-take-all Game 7, and Fabbri celebrated by drinking straight from a bottle of Van Winkle Family Reserve 13 year old rye—giving all new meaning to drinking whiskey on ice.Anything Pappy-related is the object of desire for most in the whisky community, so to see the Canadian-born Fabbri approach the bottle with such vigor is a testament to the history-making moment. Although it has a recommended retail price of $120, a bottle of the 13 year old rye would typically fetch anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000 or more.This isn't the first time Van Winkle whiskeys have been linked to sports celebrations. Just this past March, a Lexington bar owner was offering to pour the entire Van Winkle lineup at cost if the Kentucky Wildcats...

Have you been following along with the Top 20 countdown? Whiskies 5-10 have all been revealed, and we'll unveil the the rest of the list next week. Join us for the countdown, and don't forget to enter the sweepstakes to win the top three whiskies!With the holiday shopping season officially underway, now's the time to start thinking about what whisky you want to give—or receive. (For whisky-related gifts that aren't actually bottles, though, check out our gift guide.) Several distillers are offering their whiskies in special holiday packaging, including Hibiki—which we wrote about previously—J. Rieger & Co., and Woodford Reserve. The special bottle for J. Rieger Kansas City whiskey was inspired by a 1910 advertisement for the original distillery and is festooned with holly and berries, as well as a jolly Santa Claus. The whiskey's price is $35, and it's also available as part of a holiday three-pack with J. Rieger's gin and vodka ($85). The label on Woodford Reserve's...

Holiday gifting-giving can be a stressful experience, especially if you're buying for a whisky drinker with persnickety tastes. Whisky Advocate'sBuying Guide can provide excellent recommendations for the right bourbon, scotch, or other whisky in a variety of price ranges, as can our many whisky lists.But while a bottle is always a welcome gift (particularly if it's so well-decorated you don't need to wrap it, like Hibiki Japanese Harmony's special anniversary edition), you may want to extend beyond the obvious and bestow something more special. Whisky Advocate is here to help with this list of suggestions that range from the practical (shatter-proof glassware) to the utterly frivolous (cocktail glitter dust). (We can also recommend some greatstocking-stuffer items, and a host of new whisky books.)Whether you're trying to find the perfect gift for the whisky lover in your life—or you are the whisky lover and making your own wish list—this list has something for everyone...

There are almost as many glasses to drink whisky from as there are whiskies! How do you choose the right one? We at Whisky Advocate are partial to the good old Glencairn, which is included with every WhiskyFest ticket and makes a great all-purpose nosing and tasting glass. But sometimes a glass that serves a different purpose is needed. Here are six options to suit a number of scenarios—perfect for gift-giving, even if it's to yourself.
Whiskey Peaks Mt. Rainier glassWhiskey Peaks Glasses—$65 for fourWhisky can spark courage and boost morale, and even if you don't take it on the trail, you can still enjoy a great dram on rocks that far surpass ice cubes. These glasses feature four of America's greatest mountain peaks—Half Dome, Denali, Mount Rainier, and Mount Whitney—and feel great in the hand. Whether you're recovering from your most recent adventure, or planning the next one, these drinking vessels will inspire you to greater heights. Helix Spinning Whiskey...

Ceramic whiskey decanters in the form of fire trucks, potbellied stoves, and animals were popular in the mid-20th century, with many distillers packaging their bourbons in the whimsical containers. Today, collectors of “old dusty whiskey,” like Mike Jasinski, find that decanters are bountiful and worthy of consideration. “What I've noticed [is that] a lot of times the decanters were given as gifts to people that didn't really like whiskey,” Jasinski says. “So you find it's never been opened because…you bought it for your dad and he put it on the shelf and it just sat there.”However, caution is in order when buying decanters for drinking. Ceramic decanters were designed to sell whiskey, not store it. They are far less reliable than glass bottles because they are often prone to evaporation. “Here's what's interesting about decanters,” Jasinski explains. “The best whiskey I've ever had came from a decanter. The worst whiskey I've ever had came from a decanter. They're...

The run-up to the holidays is full of planning, excitement—and a lot of running around. It's important to make time to catch your breath and actually enjoy the season. An advent calendar is a great daily reminder to slow down and enjoy the holiday spirit—especially if it's filled with whisky. (Get it?)You can buy a number of pre-made whisky advent calendars. What's available varies from year to year, but these companies usually offer a calendar, and sometimes several: Secret Spirits Whisky Advent Calendar, Heritage Distilling Co.,Flaviar, andDrinks by the Dram.Be aware, however, that many of these options cost hundreds, and even thousands of dollars.Then there's the DIY option—a great choice if you already have plenty of whisky. Holiday Spirits Calendars offers pre-fab advent calendars that you can fill with your choice of whiskies. “Our goal is to appeal to that segment that like to give quirky, fun, inventive gifts to their friends and family, who also happen to enjoy...

Coffee lovers have been embracing whisky barrel-aged coffee, and now British tea company eteaket has partnered with Tomatin Distillery to create a tempest in a teapot—a tea aged in scotch whisky casks. The blend of black teas from Assam, Ceylon, and Fujian has subtle flavors of fruit and smoke derived from its time in wood. It's available for a limited time only, but there are also whisky-flavored teas from the Edinburgh Tea & Coffee Company and Whittard.But why stop with the tea? Here's our recipe for a full-on whisky tea party. From bourbon-laden cakes to scotch-laced honey for your scone, these whisky treats are a great reason to raise a pinky.Tea Sets, Sweets, and Savory Foods To Go With Your Whisky Tea
Angioletti Designs makes custom whiskey tea cups.Set The SceneA tea party is an occasion to lay a beautiful table, so make sure your décor matches the theme. AngiolettiDesigns offers tea cups and tea sets featuring off-beat imagery, including whiskey themes, and will...

I've always found Father's Day gift guides kind of pointless. Then, a magical thing happened: I became a father. Hey, maybe dads do need a gift guide! One that includes only things we truly need and love, like whisky. Of course, my young daughter has no money, lacks an acceptable ID, and couldn't get herself to the liquor store if she wanted (she can't even walk yet). So perhaps I'll have to hope someone helps her with this year's father's day whisky purchase. (Hint, hint!)A Whisky For Every DadFor the new Dad:WhistlePig Boss Hog 14 year old—92 points,$300Nobody needs or deserves a whisky more than a new dad. (Ask me how I know.) For the third annual Boss Hog release, this Vermont distiller/bottler took 100% Canadian rye and finished it in scotch hogsheads. The barrel-proof result is an intriguing, one-of-a-kind spirit that's fruity and earthy with a chocolate cake-like heft and a burnt, smoky finish. Whisky may be forbidden for teething infants these days, but dad will be thankful...

Anyone who's ever gotten married knows what a double-edged sword the wedding registry can be. On the one hand, it ensures that clueless relatives are directed toward gifts the couple actually wants. On the other hand, you could end up with 42 teaspoons and only three plates. And even with a registry, someone's always going to go off-book and giveyou their idea of a great wedding present. (Thanks for the decorative bathroom art, Aunt Mary!)But sometimes everything on the registry gets snapped up by other guests—or is way out of your price range—and you need a great gift idea. Our favorite go-to, of course, is whisky, a gift guaranteed to be enjoyed and not to collect dust in the attic. Whether you're attending the nuptials of your best friend from kindergarten or you're leading the wedding party in the funky chicken dance, there's a bottle or two that will fit the situation and bring added joy to the happy occasion.The Best Whisky Gifts For Brides And GroomsIf you're the best man...

Distell is rolling out a series of limited-edition bottlings across its portfolio of single malt scotches—which includes Bunnahabhain, Deanston, Tobermory, and Ledaig—while Kilchoman is releasing its 2017 edition of Loch Gorm, and Copper Dog, a new blended malt from Speyside, is making its debut.

Bunnahabhain 46 year old Eich Bana Lir
Style: Single maltOrigin: ScotlandAge: 46 yearsProof: 42.1% ABV Price: $7,000Release: June 2017Availability: 198 bottles, including 30 for the U.S.
Need to know:
The oldest Bunnahabhain ever released. Eich Bhana Lir means "the great waves of the god Lir" in Scottish Gaelic and refers to the Gaelic myth of the ruler of the sea who used waves to wash gifts ashore.
Whisky Advocate says:
Like all Bunnahabhains, this whisky is non-chill filtered. In this case, it's also uncut with water. That low ABV is actually cask strength—after 46 years in the barrel, it has lost a lot to the angels'...

College graduation season is upon us, and soon gaggles of 22 year olds will pour forth from halls of higher learning eager to test out their newly minted degrees. They've completed their formal schooling—but their whisky education is just getting started.As a more experienced drinker, perhaps you'd like to impart some extracurricular knowledge on them to ensure they get off on the right foot. You may even think of yourself as a mentor or—dare we say it—spirit guide.What whisky fundamentals do you focus on? For one, there's education: Whisky 101 can help there. But you also want to make sure they're drinking the right stuff. There are probably several whiskies you wish you'd known about early in your drinking days. We've thought of a few too.Remember, this is about starting from level one—great representations of the different styles of whisky a new drinker will encounter, focusing on bottles that are easy for most folks to find. It is by no means a comprehensive list, and you...

You don't need a reason to spoil your mom—she did raise you, after all—but Mother's Day offers a great excuse. Go to brunch, take her for a pedicure, make sure she doesn't lift a finger all day. You could get her a corsage or a lovely bouquet, too, but why not give her something that lasts longer than a few days?Moving past a few obviously named candidates—we're looking at you, Four Roses and Rosebank—many whiskies offer floral aromas and perfumey notes. At this time of year, they're perfect for sipping or mixing into a cocktail. If your mom is a whisky-loving woman—whether she likes bourbon, scotch, Irish whiskey, Canadian, or even something a bit more esoteric—consult this list for our top recommendations. Click through each whisky to read the full Buying Guide review.Kilkerran 12 year old—88 points, $45A complex single malt from Glengyle Distillery in Campbeltown. Its flowerynose gives way to flavors of canned peaches, cinnamon, smoke, and licorice.Lot No. 40—94...

You came to Ireland for the whiskey—so where to get it? Distillery stores are great places to shop for gifts and apparel as well as new, rare, and distillery-exclusive whiskeys. The airport stores and Dublin whiskey shops remain your best bet for finding those special bottles to take home.Northern IrelandLaverys—BelfastEstablished in 1854, this is one of the city's best-loved bars for its diverse floors of fun, from the rooftop beer garden and live music in the back bar to the clatter of billiard balls and roar of the match on the big screen. Best of all, they sell takeaway late into the evening, including bottled craft beers, premium spirits, and cigars.Don't Miss: Local labels such as Titanic Irish whiskey and Dunville 10 year old single malt.The Vineyard—BelfastA decent collection of distillery and independent Irish whiskey bottlings, coupled with a cracking beer selection and a well-selected wine range. Reach for bottles such as the Quiet Man, Teeling Revival, or something...

With the holidays right around the corner, you may be looking for gift ideas for thethe whisky lover in your life—or maybe you're makingyour own wish list. In addition to potable presents, why not consider some thoughtfully designed whisky gear, brought to you by two bourbon brands?I.W. Harper haspaired up with hat maker Goorin Bros. to release The Harper, a limited-edition felt fedora with a whiskey-colored hat band that features the brand's “bowing man” icon on the interior. “We wanted to create a hat that not only deserved attention but possessed an ability to bring others together and create compelling conversations,” says Nathaniel Pearce, brand evangelist for Goorin Bros. “All great things have a compelling story behind them that acquires character with time. Both Goorin Bros. and I.W. Harper are heritage brands which gained their start in the 1800s.” The Harper ($160) is available at Goorin Bros. locations nationwide and online, as well as the Stitzel-Weller...

Where can I see a smoking pagoda? Look to the skies at Bowmore, Laphroaig, and Kilchoman for the tell-tale puffs of smoke billowing out through the slatted panels of the pagoda chimney, though kilning does not take place every day.Where can I see floor malting in operation at a distillery?Oddly enough, at all the places with smoking pagodas. If you're lucky, the distillery guide will let you have a go at pulling the rake through the barley.Don't tell me I can have a go at digging peat on Islay too?Yes, you can! You want to book yourself on Laphroaig's Water to Whisky Experience for the afternoon. Alternatively, spoil yourself with Bowmore's Master Distiller's tour and get your hands dirty lifting peat that could help flavor Bowmore single malt in the future.Can I taste Islay whisky straight from the cask?You bet! Several distilleries can make this dream come true if you choose the right tour. Check out the options for Ardbeg, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, and Laphroaig.Can I take a...