The Best Whisky
Discover your next favorite dram with our impartial selections of the best bottles for every budget and palate.
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The Whiskey Wash Independent Buying Guides
Finding the perfect dram is a journey, not a transaction. Our “Best Whiskies” guides are curated by our team of dedicated experts, including renowned voices like Phil Dwyer (of Whiskey Wednesday), to help you navigate the shelf with confidence.
Our promise is simple: We are never paid to feature a bottle in these guides.
Whether we are hunting for the best value Scotch, the finest Japanese single malts, or the top-tier Bourbons, our selections are based on genuine, subjective tasting experiences and extensive research. We buy our own bottles or source samples directly from distilleries, ensuring our opinions remain uncompromised by advertising revenue. These lists are living documents, updated regularly as we discover new favorites that deserve a spot in your cabinet.
Meet the People who Make it Happen
Mark Littler
Editor In Chief
Mark Littler is the owner and Editor-in-Chief of The Whiskey Wash, a Spears 500 Whiskey Advisor, prominent whisky and antiques broker, and a regular contributor to Forbes.com, known for his expertise in the global whisky market.
Beth Squires
Deputy Editor
Beth Squires is the Deputy Editor of The Whiskey Wash and a graduate of the OurWhisky Foundation’s Atonia Programme. With over half a decade of industry experience, she is passionate about writing stories that highlight innovation, diversity, and sustainability across the global whisky landscape.
Phil Dwyer
Head Of UK Reviews
Phil Dwyer is a freelance whisky writer and consultant with over a decade of experience in whisky retail and online whisky education. Best known for hosting Whisky Wednesday on YouTube, he is dedicated to making whisky accessible and enjoyable by cutting through jargon and complexity.
Charles Steele
Head Of US Reviews
Charles Steele is a Portland-based attorney and freelance writer whose legal background brings an analytical approach to whiskey and other aged spirits. A native of the Pacific Northwest, he writes for The Whiskey Wash and has a particular interest in whiskey, whiskey-based cocktails, and unconventional spirits.
Hannah Thompson
Senior In House Writer
Hannah Thompson is a whisky educator specialising in the secondary whisky market, with a focus on helping consumers make informed, education-led cask decisions. She has worked in the sector since 2019 and combines a background in research and creative writing with practical market insight.
Mark Bostock
Reviewer
Mark Bostock has been part of the Mark Littler Ltd content writing team since 2019 and brings a strong passion for whisky, particularly independent bottlings. A meticulous researcher with a keen interest in the history of Scotch whisky, he combines growing expertise with genuine enthusiasm.
Pete “Jeff Whisky” Jeffery
Reviewer
Pete “Jeff Whisky” Jeffery is a South West–based whisky reviewer known for his irreverent approach and a refusal to take the spirit too seriously. The creative force behind the Jeff Whisky YouTube channel, he has been featured in the Malt Whisky Yearbook and has contributed to a range of whisky platforms.
Ed Leigh
Reviewer
Ed Leigh is a London-based authority on independent bottlers and artisan scotch whisky. He is the founder of TopWhiskies.com, a specialist retailer focused on small-batch releases, and holds wine and spirits certifications from The Wine & Spirit Education Trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you select the "Best" whiskies for these guides?
Our lists are curated by independent critics and industry veterans. We judge bottles on balance, complexity, and character—not price or marketing hype. For a look at the absolute pinnacle of our ratings, check our guide to the Best Whiskey According To Experts, which aggregates top-scoring drams from across the industry.
I’m new to whiskey. Where should I start?
The world of whiskey can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. We have a dedicated guide for the Best Beginner Whiskey, focusing on bottles that are approachable, smooth, and affordable. We often recommend starting with a lighter profile before moving on to Best Peated Whiskey or high-proof Best Cask Strength Whiskey.
Do you cover world whiskies beyond just Scotch and Bourbon?
Absolutely. While we love the classics, the whiskey world is global. Our team extensively covers the Best Japanese Whisky, Best Indian Whisky, Best English Whisky, and Best Canadian Whisky. We believe some of the most exciting innovation is happening in these emerging and re-emerging regions.
I’m looking for a bottle to mix with, not just sip neat. Can you help?
Yes. Great whiskey makes great drinks. We have specific guides for the Best For Cocktails Whiskey, selecting bottles that stand up to mixers without disappearing. If you prefer a sweeter or more specific profile, you might also enjoy our curated list of the Best Flavored Whiskey.
What is the difference between Single Malt, Single Barrel, and Blended?
It comes down to how the whiskey is assembled.
- Best Single Malt Whiskey: Product of one distillery (usually 100% malted barley).
- Best Blended Whiskey: A mix of grain and malt whiskies (often smoother and consistent).
- Best Single Barrel Whiskey: Bottled from one individual cask, offering a unique, unrepeatable flavor profile.
We have specific buying guides for each style to help you explore the differences.
Do you have recommendations for non-drinkers?
Yes. The alcohol-free movement is growing rapidly, and technology has improved significantly. We review and rank the Whiskey Substitutes that actually capture the essence of whiskey (oak, spice, and warmth) without the alcohol, perfect for mocktails or sober curiosity.
How do I find a great bottle on a budget?
Price does not always equal quality. Our Best Value Whiskey guide specifically targets bottles that punch above their weight class—delivering exceptional flavor for a price that is friendly to your wallet.
What makes "Rye" different from American Whiskey?
All Rye is American whiskey (mostly), but not all American whiskey is Rye! Rye must be made from at least 51% rye grain, giving it a signature spicy, peppery "bite." If you enjoy bold flavors, check out our list of the Best Rye Whiskey. For broader styles, including wheat or malt heavy recipes, see our Best American Whiskey guide.