Outstanding rating, 90–94 range
Orange oil, raisin and currant, oak, clove, with honey finish.
Peated
A record of whisky, bottle by bottle.
Browse whisky bottles, including single casks, with critic scores and tasting notes. No account needed.
Rock n Rye Whiskey Festival
–Mammoth Lakes · California · United States
Recent releases
View all- Batch 432026 release15 years50.0% ABV
- InchDairnie Distillery · Single Malt2017 vintage2026 release9 years57.2% ABV
- Ardnamurchan · Single Malt2018 vintage2026 release8 years60.5% ABV
Activity
View all- Very good rating, 85–89 range
Unique peated Japanese whisky. Silky mouthfeel, smoky nutty, raisin, bittersweet cocoa
- Outstanding rating, 90–94 range
Classic seaside character with stone fruit and spice.
Browse by origin
Open the mapMostly Scotch, a good deal of American, and a growing amount of everything else.
By region
Speyside3,073 bottlesSpeyside, located in the northeast of Scotland, is renowned for its rich whisky heritage. The region's whisky production dates back to the 18th century, with many distilleries established during the 19th century boom. Speyside's proximity to the River Spey provided an abundant water source, essential for whisky production. The region's history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of Scotch whisky, contributing significantly to its global reputation.
Speyside is distinguished by its focus on producing single malt whiskies that are often characterized by their smooth, sweet, and elegant profiles. The region is home to over 50 distilleries, more than any other whisky-producing area in Scotland. Speyside whiskies typically exhibit notes of apple, pear, honey, vanilla, and malt, with some expressions offering a subtle smokiness. Notable distilleries include Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Glenlivet. The region's emphasis on quality and tradition, combined with its diverse range of styles, makes Speyside a cornerstone of the Scotch whisky industry.Highland2,556 bottlesThe Highland region of Scotland boasts a rich history and origin in whisky production, dating back to the 15th century. This area, which is the largest whisky-producing region in Scotland, has a diverse landscape that includes coastal areas, mountains, and glens. The varied geography has historically influenced the development of distinct whisky styles within the region. Highland whiskies have been celebrated for centuries, with many distilleries having roots that trace back to the early days of legal and illicit distillation practices. The region's whisky heritage is deeply intertwined with Scottish culture and tradition, making it a cornerstone of the global whisky industry.
Highland whiskies are known for their unique approach to production, which often involves a combination of traditional methods and innovative techniques. The region produces a wide range of styles, from light and floral to rich and peaty. Notable distilleries such as Glenmorangie, Dalmore, and GlenDronach contribute to this diversity. Highland whiskies are often characterized by their complexity and depth, with flavors that can include heather, honey, fruit, and spice. An interesting fact about Highland whisky is that the region's vast size and varied climate conditions allow for a broad spectrum of flavor profiles, making it a versatile and highly regarded area for whisky connoisseurs.Islay1,377 bottlesIslay, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Hebrides,' has a rich history of whisky production dating back to the early 18th century. The island's remote location and unique climate have contributed to its distinct whisky-making traditions. Historically, Islay's distilleries were small, family-run operations that utilized local barley and peat, which is abundant on the island. Over time, these distilleries have grown and modernized, but they still maintain a strong connection to their roots, preserving traditional methods and recipes passed down through generations.
Islay is renowned for its heavily peated whiskies, which are characterized by their smoky, maritime flavors. This distinctive style is achieved by drying the malted barley over peat fires, imparting a robust, earthy aroma and taste. The island is home to nine active distilleries, each with its own unique take on the classic Islay profile. Notable distilleries include Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin, which are celebrated for their intense, smoky expressions. Additionally, Islay whiskies often feature notes of seaweed, brine, and medicinal qualities, reflecting the island's coastal environment. This combination of traditional techniques and unique terroir sets Islay whiskies apart from those produced in other regions.Lowland387 bottlesThe Lowland region of Scotland has a rich history in whisky production, dating back to the 18th century. Historically, the Lowlands were known for their large number of distilleries, which were often located near major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. This accessibility to trade routes facilitated the growth of the whisky industry in the region. However, the number of distilleries dwindled over the years due to various economic factors, leaving only a few operational today.
Lowland whiskies are often characterized by their light, floral, and grassy notes, making them distinct from the more robust and peaty whiskies of other Scottish regions. This is largely due to the region's tradition of triple distillation, which results in a smoother and more delicate spirit. The Lowlands are also known for producing single malts that are approachable for those new to whisky. Interesting facts include the revival of old distilleries and the emergence of new ones, contributing to a renaissance in Lowland whisky production.
Maps adapted from Briangotts and Interiot · CC BY-SA 3.0
