Flavored whiskeys often get a bad rap from traditionalists, dismissed as too sweet or gimmicky. But there’s no denying their growing appeal. These expressions offer a fun, accessible way into whiskey—especially for newcomers or cocktail fans—by leaning into nostalgic, dessert-like, or fruit-forward flavors. What once felt like a novelty is now gaining serious traction, with even top spirits competitions recognizing standout bottles.
From honey-infused bourbons to peanut butter drams, the category is evolving fast. In this guide, we explore some of the most daring flavored whiskeys to try in 2025—grouped by theme, and chosen for both their character and creativity.
Sweet & Decadent Flavored Whiskeys
Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey
BUY NOW: From $30
Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey, launched in April 2024, leans all in on nostalgia, capturing the gooey, toasted essence of a campfire s’more. Layers of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallow come through clearly, with a soft, dessert-like finish that’s both playful and polished. At 35% ABV, it’s light and versatile—great as a chilled shot, a creamy cocktail base, or even splashed into hot cocoa.
While it won’t satisfy purists seeking depth or intensity, its natural-tasting flavor and smooth texture make it a standout for what it is: a fun, well-crafted dessert whiskey that doesn’t forget it’s still whiskey. I was able to sample this whiskey in Lousiville last year, and I miss it dearly (…please ship to the UK. I beg of you).
Cocoa Bomb Chocolate Whiskey
BUY NOW: From $39.99
Heritage Distilling’s Cocoa Bomb Whiskey is exactly what it sounds like—a rich, boozy chocolate truffle in a glass. With notes of dark cocoa and cocoa nibs, it delivers a velvety aroma and finishes with just enough whiskey warmth to balance the sweetness. At 75 proof and made with natural flavorings, it’s more refined than your average dessert dram.
Best enjoyed over ice or in cocktail twists like a mocha-spiked iced coffee, it’s a treat for chocolate lovers. That said, it’s unapologetically sweet, so those seeking a classic whiskey bite—or more than a small pour—might find it a bit much.
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Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
BUY NOW: From $20
Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey is the original that kickstarted a trend, delivering creamy peanut butter richness with caramel, vanilla, and a touch of salt to keep things balanced. Think peanut butter cookie in liquid form—indulgent, smooth, and unmistakably sweet. It shines as a dessert pour, a playful shot, or in cocktails like PB&J mixers and spiked shakes.
Hugely popular and often imitated, it’s a go-to for those craving something fun and different. That said, it’s a love-it-or-leave-it dram: intensely sweet, a little goes a long way, and it’s definitely not for purists seeking traditional whiskey character.
Fruity & Refreshing Flavored-Whiskeys
Crown Royal Peach
BUY NOW: From $23
Crown Royal Peach is a summer favorite that delivers ripe, juicy peach flavor without veering into syrupy territory. From the first whiff, it’s like biting into a sun-warmed peach, backed by the smoothness of Crown Royal’s signature whisky. Light, balanced, and incredibly sippable, it’s ideal for peach iced tea cocktails, lemonades, or simply poured over ice on a warm day.
Its crowd-pleasing charm has made it a seasonal hit—sometimes hard to find, always easy to enjoy. While it won’t win over fans of bold, smoky drams, its subtle sweetness and quality base make it one of the more refined fruit-flavored whiskies out there.
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple
BUY NOW: From $25
Jack Daniel’s Apple brings a crisp, tart green apple kick to its mellow Tennessee whiskey base, striking a sweet-sour balance that feels more Granny Smith than candy shop. Hints of vanilla and caramel round it out with a toffee apple twist. Refreshing over ice and easy to mix—whether into a summery highball with soda or a spiced autumn cocktail—it’s versatile across the seasons.
Widely available and approachable even for non-JD fans, it delivers real fruit flavor without going overboard on sugar. Purists may find it lacks traditional whiskey depth, but for flavored whiskey fans, it’s a smart, balanced pick.
Jim Beam Orange
BUY NOW: From $18
Jim Beam Orange blends bright citrus zest with bourbon’s classic warmth, delivering a smooth, tangy sip that leans more fresh orange peel than syrupy sweet. Vanilla and oak provide a familiar base, while the citrus lifts the profile into something lighter and more refreshing. It’s excellent with cola, lemonade, or especially ginger ale, where the flavors really pop.
Best served over ice, it’s a great pick for summer drinks or simple citrusy cocktails. That said, it can be tricky to find—and while approachable, its lighter 35% ABV means it’s more for mixing than for sipping neat.
Honey-Infused Whiskey
Tullamore D.E.W Honey
BUY NOW: From $24
Tullamore D.E.W. Honey blends smooth Irish whiskey with 100% natural Bohemian honey, offering a silky sip filled with floral sweetness, vanilla, and gentle malt. It’s more “liquid gold” than classic dram—sweet, rich, and easygoing, with a lingering honeyed finish.
Best over ice or mixed into cocktails like a lemonade highball or hot toddy, it’s also earned a spot in the creative bartender’s toolkit (yes, even over ice cream). While its low ABV and liqueur-like profile may not thrill purists, it’s a warm, approachable pour for anyone looking to ease into whiskey—or simply enjoy a sweet twist on tradition.
When & Why Flavored Whiskeys Shine
Flavored whiskeys shine brightest when matched to the moment—peach and apple for summer sipping, dessert-inspired drams for after-dinner indulgence, and honey blends for cozy cocktails or brunch mixers. They also simplify creative cocktails with built-in flavor, making mixology more approachable. Most of all, they serve as an easy gateway into whiskey, welcoming newcomers while offering seasoned drinkers a fun change of pace.
No, they won’t replace a well-aged single malt or a balanced bourbon—but they’re not trying to. Flavored whiskeys bring warmth, sweetness, and a sense of play to whiskey drinking—reminding us that whiskey can be both serious and seriously fun.
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