Whiskey lovers, rejoice—2025 has brought some incredible bottles to the shelves, from bold American ryes to smooth Irish pot stills and rich sherry-cask-aged single malts. Whether you’re stocking your home bar or searching for that perfect gift, these standout whiskeys are some of the best you can find today.
Kavalan Solist Fino Sherry Single Cask Strength (Taiwan)
Crowned Whisky of the Year at the 2025 International Whisky Competition, this Taiwanese single malt is a flavor bomb. Matured in fino sherry casks, it delivers tropical fruit, citrus zest, chocolate, and spice. It’s bold, complex, and unforgettable.
The Notch Nantucket Island 12 Year Old Single Malt (USA)
Named Best American Single Malt at IWSC 2025, The Notch proves that world-class whiskey can come from unexpected places. This Massachusetts-made single malt is layered with notes of star anise, black pepper, and peanut brittle—a complex yet approachable pour.
Pinhook 9-Year Vertical Series Rye (USA)
If you love spice-forward whiskey, look no further. This cask-strength rye was awarded America’s Best Rye at IWSC 2025. Expect honey, toasted nuts, and baking spice—perfect for sipping neat or with a splash of water to open it up.
Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Bourbon (USA)
Maker’s Mark has released a truly special bourbon with its 2025 Cellar Aged expression. By finishing part of the aging in cooler cellars, the oak influence is balanced and refined. The result? Rich baked apple, fudge, toasted almond, and gentle spice. A must-have for bourbon enthusiasts.
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee 12 Years Old Batch #2 (USA)
Jack Daniel’s continues to prove it can do more than mass-market whiskey. This 12-year release shows impressive maturity, balancing smooth Tennessee character with deep oak, caramel, and vanilla layers.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked (USA)
A bourbon classic that has earned plenty of awards, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked uses two barrels for extra depth. The second, heavily toasted barrel adds waves of vanilla, caramel, and chocolate. It’s a great everyday sipper for those who love a rich, full-bodied pour.
Redbreast 12 Year (Ireland)
No list would be complete without a top Irish whiskey, and Redbreast 12 Year stands tall. A pot still classic, it offers silky smoothness with notes of dried fruit, nuts, and sweet spice. The limited editions (like Lustau or Tawny Port finishes) elevate it even further.
Final Pour
From Taiwan to Tennessee, the whiskey world has never been more exciting. Whether you prefer a bold rye, a smooth Irish pour, or a sherry-soaked single malt, there’s something on this list to fit your taste. If you’re looking to explore, these whiskeys are among the very best on the market right now.
Which one would you pour first?