The Top Ten Whiskey Brands You Should Try
Quick! Which brand has a yellow upside down W as their logo? What company uses a pointed checkmark for their trademark? It’s not so easy is it? Jokes. They’re some of the most recognized brands around the world and people as far away as Kenya and Siberia could recognize them. While the products may vary slightly depending on who is in charge, for the most part, they’re known to be somewhat uniform in taste and comfort. An Air Jordan will always be warm and delicious just as a Big Mac will always be a comfortable and timeless classic to shoot hoops with. Wait.
But what about whiskey makers? Which brands consistently put out the best products? This week, let’s discover the top 10 whiskey brands you should try! To uphold the all-inclusive view we always do, we’ll include anything that might be labeled as one, including but not limited to whiskeys, whiskies, bourbons, Scotches, ryes, blended, etc. I guess that’s about it.
Sazerac
Sazerac, a renowned name among whiskey aficionados, boasts a lineup of highly coveted spirits that exemplify excellence in every sip. With a reputation built on exceptional craftsmanship and distinct flavor profiles, Sazerac's products are sought after for their rarity and exceptional taste. From the iconic Sazerac Rye to the smooth and complex Buffalo Trace Bourbon, each offering in their Signature Collection promises a unique and unforgettable whiskey experience. Whether you're drawn to the rich heritage of their classic expressions or the innovative twists found in their limited releases, Sazerac ensures that every bottle delivers a memorable journey through the world of whiskey. Add a selection of Sazerac's prized brands to your collection for an unparalleled whiskey experience that epitomizes the essence of true drinkability.
Products to try: Blanton’s, W.L. Weller, Buffalo Trace, Pappy Van Winkle
WhistlePig
WhistlePig Whiskey, the premier independent craft whiskey brand, leads the industry by pushing boundaries to create the boldest and best rye whiskeys globally. Situated off the grid in Vermont, their whiskey is meticulously crafted by a new generation of distillers and blenders who reimagine and unlock the essence of Rye Whiskey. Their distinctiveness stems from their unconventional roots, free from generations of family tradition. They dare to dream big, act boldly, and embrace risk, constantly experimenting to produce one-of-a-kind whiskeys. At WhistlePig, they believe in the joy of making and savoring exceptional whiskey without formality. With the world's most awarded rye whiskey in their portfolio, every pour of WhistlePig is an invitation to experience the pinnacle of craft and innovation in the world of whiskey.
Products to try: Whistlepig Piggyback Rye Whiskey, WhistlePig Boss Hog X The Ten Commandments Straight Rye Whiskey, Whistlepig Old World Cask Finish 12 Years Whiskey, Whistlepig 6 Year, 10 Year, 12 Year, 15 Year, 18 Year Combo
Suntory
Since 1923, Suntory has been at the forefront of pioneering the Art of Japanese Whisky. Revered among whisky enthusiasts worldwide, the creation and innovation unique to Suntory Whisky stand as a testament to their dedication to excellence. With a rich heritage spanning nearly a century, Suntory continues to captivate connoisseurs with their distinctively crafted expressions, each embodying the meticulous attention to detail and traditional craftsmanship synonymous with Japanese culture. From the smooth and delicate flavors of their single malts to the harmonious blends that showcase the depth of Japanese whisky-making expertise, Suntory whiskies offer an unparalleled sensory experience that transcends borders.
Products to try: Hibiki Harmony Japanese Whisky, Yamazaki Limited Edition Single Malt Japanese Whisky 2023 Release, Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky, Suntory World Whisky AO
Crown Royal
In 1939, a historic visit by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada sparked a remarkable journey in the world of whisky. Inspired by the occasion, a Canadian spirits entrepreneur embarked on a quest to create a whisky befitting royalty. After meticulously trialing over 600 blends, he unveiled a masterpiece: Crown Royal. Crafted from approximately fifty whiskies, this exquisitely smooth blend was presented in a cut-glass decanter, adorned with a regal purple bag and gold stitching. As the royal couple embarked on their journey across North America, 10 cases of Crown Royal accompanied them, igniting rumors of unparalleled whisky fit for a king. Since its release in the United States in the 1960s, Crown Royal has risen to become the top-selling Canadian whisky, cherished for its uncompromising quality and exquisite flavor. Every drop of Crown Royal is crafted to meet the same exacting standards set forth by its founder, ensuring that it remains, to many discerning palates, the epitome of fine whisky.
Products to try: Crown Royal Salted Caramel Flavored Whisky, Crown Royal Reserve Blended Canadian Whisky, Crown Royal 4 Pack Combo Whisky
Lagavulin
Nestled on the windswept Isle of Islay, Lagavulin stands as one of the oldest distilleries on the island, boasting a legacy spanning over two centuries. Revered by whisky enthusiasts worldwide, Lagavulin is celebrated for its signature smoky and peaty flavor profile, embodying the essence of Islay's rugged landscape. With each drop, Lagavulin captures the very spirit of its surroundings—a strength of character instilled by the island's untamed beauty. Renowned as the definitive Islay malt, Lagavulin whisky is an embodiment of intensity, richness, and complexity. For over 200 years, this beloved distillery has crafted whiskies that evoke the essence of Islay, offering a truly immersive sensory experience unlike any other.
Products to try: Lagavulin Offerman Edition Caribbean Rum Cask Finish Scotch Whisky (Pre-Order), Lagavulin Distillers Edition Whisky, Lagavulin 8 Year Whisky, Lagavulin Distiller's Edition Scotch Whisky 2022 
High West
High West Distillery, founded in 2006 by David Perkins and his wife, Jane, emerged from a deep-seated passion for the art and science of whiskey-making. David's background as a biochemist laid the groundwork for his journey into distilling, sparked by a revelatory visit to a Kentucky whiskey distillery. Inspired by the parallels between fermentation, distillation, and his own scientific endeavors, the Perkins family embarked on a bold new venture. Settling in Park City, Utah, in 2004, they embraced the region's rich history and picturesque landscapes as the backdrop for their distillery. In 2007, High West began distilling operations, starting modestly with a small 250-gallon still and a rustic Saloon housed in a historic livery stable and garage in downtown Park City. Guided by David's love for the Old West and Utah's hidden whiskey heritage, High West steadily grew from its humble beginnings to become a globally recognized, award-winning brand. Today, High West Distillery stands as a testament to the Perkins family's unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional whiskey, blending tradition with innovation to create spirits that capture the spirit of the West.
Products to try: High West Campfire Whiskey, High West American Prairie Bourbon Whiskey, High West Rendezvous Rye Whiskey, High West High Country Single Malt Whiskey
Macallan
As one of the pioneering distillers in Scotland to obtain legal licensing, The Macallan has forged a legacy as a cornerstone of the whisky world. Renowned globally as a premier single malt whisky, The Macallan's journey is steeped in tradition and craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Spain, North America, and Scotland, The Macallan's creation process intricately weaves together the finest natural raw materials and traditional methods. Each expression is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to quality that defines The Macallan. With a rich heritage spanning generations, The Macallan continues to set the standard for excellence in single malt whisky, captivating palates around the globe with its unparalleled depth and complexity.
Products to try: The Macallan 12 Yr Double Cask Whisky, The Macallan No. 6 Single Malt Scotch Whisky, The Macallan Double Cask 15 Years Old Whisky, The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Year Old Scotch Whisky
Jack Daniel’s
For over 150 years, Jack Daniel's has been a beacon of excellence in the world of whiskey, offering a diverse range of products that cater to every palate. From the iconic Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, with its rich and smooth flavor profile, to the bold and robust Single Barrel Collection, where each bottle is hand-selected for its exceptional quality, Jack Daniel's has something for every whiskey lover. With its wide array of products, Jack Daniel's continues to captivate and delight whiskey connoisseurs around the world, ensuring that there's always something new to discover and savor.
Products to try: Jack Daniel’s 4 Pack Combo Whiskey, Jack Daniel's 12 Year Old Limited Release Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel's 2023 Twice Barreled Special Release Heritage Barrel Tennessee Rye Whiskey, Jack Daniel's 10 Year Old Tennessee Whiskey
Glenlivet
With a heritage spanning nearly two centuries, Glenlivet stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of Scotch whisky. Founded in 1824 by George Smith, Glenlivet was one of the first licensed distilleries in Scotland, paving the way for the country's whisky industry. Since then, Glenlivet has become synonymous with craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. From its classic Glenlivet 12 Year Old, with its smooth and delicate flavors of orchard fruits and floral notes, to the rich and complex Glenlivet 18 Year Old, aged to perfection in oak casks, each expression exemplifies the distillery's commitment to excellence. For those seeking something truly special, the Glenlivet Founders Reserve pays homage to George Smith's pioneering spirit, while the Nadurra range showcases the natural beauty of Glenlivet's whisky, bottled at cask strength and non-chill filtered. With its rich history and unparalleled dedication to quality, Glenlivet continues to set the standard for Scotch whisky, delighting enthusiasts around the world with its exceptional range of expressions.
Products to try: The Glenlivet 15 Year Old Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet 18 Year Old Scotch Whisky, Glenlivet Founder's Reserve Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve Scotch Whisky
Jefferson’s
Since its inception, Jefferson's Bourbon has redefined the art of American whiskey-making, offering a distinct range of expressions that capture the essence of innovation and craftsmanship. Named after one of America's founding fathers, Thomas Jefferson, Jefferson's Bourbon pays homage to his pioneering spirit and adventurous nature. Each bottle tells a story of exploration and discovery, as Jefferson's Bourbon sources and matures its whiskey from various regions and distilleries across the United States. From the smooth and approachable Jefferson's Reserve, aged to perfection in new American oak barrels, to the bold and flavorful Jefferson's Ocean, which undergoes a unique aging process at sea, Jefferson's Bourbon offers a diverse portfolio to suit every palate. With its commitment to quality and innovation, Jefferson's Bourbon continues to push the boundaries of what American whiskey can be, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey of flavor and discovery with every sip.
Products to try: Jefferson's The Manhattan Barrel Aged Cocktail Whiskey, Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea Rye Double Barrel Whiskey, Jefferson's Tropics Aged in Humidity Whiskey, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old Bourbon