FOUR OF THE BEST WHISKIES FOR INTERNATIONAL WHISKY DAY 2023

By on March 27th, 2023 in Blog
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Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or just starting to explore this delicious spirit, it’s International Whisky Day on March 27th so we thought it would be a great excuse to try something new. We often get asked which whisky is the best, so we’ve made a list of the top four whiskies to drink, sip and savour at home.

But before we dive into our recommendations, let’s find out what is International Whisky Day? The day was first established in 2009 to honour the legacy of Michael James Jackson, a well-known whisky writer and journalist who passed away in 2007. Jackson was a prolific author of books on both beer and whisky, and his knowledge and passion for these beloved beverages helped to establish him as a true authority in the field.

Whisky itself has a long and storied history, dating back more than 500 years. The term “whisky” is derived from the Gaelic term “uisce na beatha,” which means “water of life.” And while the exact origins of whisky are unclear, it is widely accepted that monks travelling to Scotland before 1100AD brought fermented grain mash and created the first iteration of whisky – although the first official mention of whisky as a distilled product came in 1405.

Now, onto the main event – the whisky! 

1. Sliabh Liag Distillers The Legendary Silkie Irish Whiskey (£33)

If you’re wondering which whiskey is easiest to drink, our first recommendation is the Sliabh Liag Distillers The Legendary Silkie Irish Whiskey, which is an excellent choice for those new to whiskey. This whiskey is smooth and easygoing, with notes of citrus and peach complementing its background of earthiness. It’s also a great mixer, making it a versatile choice for any whiskey lover.

2. Clonakilty Single Grain Bordeaux Cask Irish Whiskey (£46.80)

Next up is the Clonakilty Single Grain Bordeaux Cask Irish Whiskey, which offers a unique blend of Bordeaux and County Cork flavours. This whiskey has an almost wine-like quality to it, with notes of juicy raisins, soft vanilla, and leather taking centre stage. There are also hints of hay, shortbread, and oats that give this whiskey a complex and compelling flavour profile. We think this is best drunk straight up, and perhaps with ice if you must!

3. Ardnamurchan Single Malt AD/04.22:02 (£46)

Our third recommendation is the Ardnamurchan Single Malt AD/04.22:02, which is a young but impressive whisky from the team behind renowned bottlers Adelphi. This whisky has a delicious weight and depth rarely found in such a young spirit, with flavours of red apple, peach, toffee, and cinnamon making it a true standout.

4. The English Whisky Co Smokey (£42)

Last but not least, we have The English Whisky Co Smokey. Based in Norfolk, it’s the first distillery in England for over 150 years. Their smokey whisky that’s perfect for those looking to dip their toes into peated whisky. This whisky has a laid-back, easygoing flavour with a combination of peachy, citrussy elements and an earthy smokiness that’s more charred wood and bonfire than high, acrid peat. It’s also a great mixer, but we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to savour it on its own. If you’re wondering if English whisky is any good, we firmly stand behind this one.

International Whisky Day 2023 is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some of the finest whiskys around. There’s a whisky on our list that’s sure to satisfy. So grab a glass, pour yourself a dram, and raise a toast to the water of life!