Value is more important than ever when choosing a whisky in 2025. Beyond the glitz of high-budget marketing campaigns designed to influence opinions, what really matters is the whisky itself—its quality, character, and what you get for your money. With prices fluctuating and premium releases becoming ever more expensive, finding a great single malt that delivers both excellence and affordability is key.
That’s exactly what this list aims to do. Whether you’re looking for an everyday dram or a special bottle that punches above its weight, these whiskies represent the best value available right now. Each selection is based on quality, craftsmanship, and price, ensuring you get the most out of every pour as we head into the new year.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Arran 10 Year Old
BUY NOW: $48
We’ve talked about this a lot—not just here at The Whiskey Wash, but across the whisky world. It has just been named Ralfy’s Whisky of the Year for 2025, which means it will undoubtedly attract plenty of attention as the year progresses. But beyond the buzz, the quality of this bottling has been consistently excellent over the past few years.
The distillery celebrates its 30th anniversary in a few months, and we can likely expect something special to mark the occasion. Aside from slight variations in its natural color from batch to batch, this whisky isn’t about hype—it’s well-received and well-regarded simply because it delivers. No one is claiming that Arran 10 Year Old is the greatest whisky in the world, but it is fantastic value for money, it does exactly what it should.
Benromach 15 Year Old
BUY NOW: $68
Another bottle that delivers exactly what it promises. It’s also the only whisky I’ve ever described as “this is what you think whisky should taste like.” A peated Speyside with some well-integrated sherry cask maturation, Benromach 15 Year Old is a balanced, complex, slightly smoky, and richly textured single malt—a whisky that feels instantly familiar and comforting with every sip.
Some may criticize it for not being bottled at 46% ABV, especially since it ticks nearly every other box for discerning whisky drinkers. But let me say this clearly—and proudly—just because it isn’t 46% doesn’t mean it isn’t exceptional. Whisky should always be judged on how it tastes, and at 43%, this delivers everything you could want – great value for money.
Kilkerran 12 Year Old
BUY NOW: $100
Some of you might be surprised by this recommendation—after all, where do you actually buy it? Fortunately, as we move into early 2025, Kilkerran products are becoming a bit more available on shop shelves. This Campbeltown single malt delivers everything you want from the region’s classic style. It’s slightly funky, a little smoky, subtly sweet, and richly textured, finishing with that signature coastal saltiness we expect from a whisky of this pedigree.
Let’s hope the same becomes true for the whiskies from Springbank Distillery and its three house single malts. Being able to find, purchase, and enjoy bottles like this is one of the true joys of being a whisky drinker. Kilkerran makes exceptional whisky—some might even argue better—so if you spot a bottle, don’t hesitate to snap it up.
Benrinnes 15 Year Old
BUY NOW: $68
This one is a bit off the beaten track, given that it’s owned by the world’s largest drinks company. Benrinnes may be a relatively small distillery within Diageo’s vast malt portfolio, but it produces a remarkably tasty 15 Year Old expression, largely matured in sherry, and priced surprisingly well in the grand scheme of things.
Yes, there are some drawbacks—it’s chill-filtered and has added coloring—but compared to many other big-brand releases of the same age, it’s an absolute steal. A sherry-matured whisky of this quality for half the price of a Macallan 15 Year Old, and even cheaper than Glendronach 15, is hard to ignore. Whisky preferences are always personal, but this bottle feels like a hidden, value gem tucked away in a corporate giant’s vast collection of offerings.
Kilchoman Machir Bay
BUY NOW: $46
Off to Islay for this one. With so many options on the smoke-filled gem of the West Coast, Kilchoman Machir Bay stands out as the island’s most consistently excellent release. Matured in 90% ex-bourbon casks with a touch of sherry influence, this whisky delivers a bold, smoky, and savory punch, balanced by just the right amount of sweetness from the American oak.
For those who prefer a sherry-forward profile, there’s also the majority sherry-matured Sanaig, which is undeniably delicious. But there’s something about younger Islay whisky in ex-bourbon casks that just works. If you’re a fan of peaty drams and haven’t yet tried Kilchoman, you’re most definitely missing out.
Filey Bay Flagship
BUY NOW: $75
Are you ready for a trip to Yorkshire? You’ll have to make one for this standout example of English single malt whisky—or, as the bottle proudly declares, Yorkshire Single Malt.
Distilled through two classic pot stills, with the option to pass through a doubler if needed, The Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery is a remarkably well-run operation. Originally a brewery before expanding into distillation, they’ve mastered the art of crafting a refreshing, light, and approachable single malt—an excellent gateway into the increasingly diverse world of English whisky.
This flagship release is fully matured in ex-bourbon casks, but for those seeking something richer, the distillery offers a variety of finishes, including STR, Moscatel, and even IPA casks, among others.
Meikle Tòir ‘The Sherry One’ 5 Year Old
BUY NOW: $59
I’ve mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating—I named this my Whisky of the Year for 2024 on Whisky Wednesday. Even beyond that recognition, it remains a wonderfully rich, smoky, and affordable single malt. From the team at GlenAllachie, but with a peated twist, this is a dram that deserves attention, especially for its great value for money.
Finished in ex-Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, bottled at 48%, and packed with deep, smoky richness, this is a whisky you’ll want on your shelf immediately—bias acknowledged. And if you’re looking for something even more distinctive, keep an eye out for The Turbo release from the same distillery.