Whisky

Whisky is one of the world’s most diverse and storied spirits, produced in a wide range of styles across multiple countries, each with its own traditions, regulations, and flavour profiles. At its core, whisky is a distilled spirit made from cereal grains, most commonly barley, corn, rye, or wheat, matured in oak casks to develop complexity, colour, and character. While the spelling varies (“whisky” in Scotland, Canada, and Japan; “whiskey” in Ireland and the United States), the craftsmanship and cultural significance are universal.

The production process begins with malting (in the case of malt whisky), mashing, fermentation, and distillation. Depending on the style and location, distillers may use copper pot stills for a richer, more characterful spirit or continuous column stills for a lighter, more neutral base. The choice of grain, still type, and maturation conditions all have a profound effect on the final flavour.

Whisky is made worldwide, but several regions are particularly renowned for their traditions and styles. Scotch whisky is governed by strict regulations and is typically aged for at least three years in oak casks. It is divided into categories such as single malt, single grain, blended malt, blended grain, and blended Scotch. Regional variations add further nuance: Speyside malts are often elegant and fruity, Islay whiskies are famously peaty and maritime, and Highland drams range from light and floral to rich and robust.

Irish whiskey is often triple-distilled for smoothness, with a style that may incorporate malted and unmalted barley. American whiskey encompasses bourbon, rye, Tennessee whiskey, and more, each with its own legal definitions and flavour profiles, from the sweet corn richness of bourbon to the spicy dryness of rye. Canadian whisky is typically light and smooth, often with a high rye content, while Japanese whisky takes inspiration from Scotch traditions, offering precision, balance, and finesse. Emerging whisky-producing nations, including Taiwan, Australia, and India, are also gaining international acclaim for innovative approaches and award-winning releases.

Cask maturation is central to whisky’s identity. Ex-bourbon barrels impart vanilla, honey, and coconut notes; sherry casks bring dried fruit, spice, and nuttiness; and more unusual cask finishes - port, rum, wine - add unique twists. Age statements indicate the youngest whisky in the bottle, but non-age-statement (NAS) whiskies can also offer depth and complexity, especially when blending younger, vibrant spirit with older, more mature stock.

Whisky is incredibly versatile in how it can be enjoyed. Neat or with a splash of water allows the full complexity to shine, while highballs, Old Fashioneds, and Whisky Sours show how well it works in cocktails. It pairs beautifully with food, from chocolate and cheese to smoked meats and seafood, and lends itself to tasting flights that explore differences in region, age, or cask type.

Our Whisky collection brings together a carefully curated selection from Scotland, Ireland, the United States, Japan, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a smooth everyday dram, a rare collector’s bottle, or something to expand your palate, each whisky in our range has been chosen for its quality, authenticity, and ability to tell a story in every glass.