Updated January 28, 2010
I constantly get asked which whiskies I like best. Naming the best whiskies in any category is subjective at best, and every year it becomes harder to choose as overall quality improves in the whiskey industry. These are all fantastic whiskies and any of these whiskies would make a great gift for the whiskey enthusiast in your life.
- Canadian Whisky of the Year
Canadian Club Sherry Cask. Smooth and with a distinct undertone of Spanish sherry, Canadian Club is again leading the way in the world of Canadian whisky.
- Single Malt Irish Whiskey
Michael Collins Single Malt. The big guy does it again, providing a nice balance between citrus and smoke notes. A really versatile and enjoyable dram of whiskey.
- Pure Pot Still Irish Whiskey
Redbreast 12 offers up some nice apple and pear notes to pair with cinnamon, caramel, vanilla and a demerara sugar before moving into orange zest, dried plums and sultana notes.
- Blended Irish Whiskey
Jameson's may be the most versatile whiskey in the world. From an Irish coffee, to the choice of bartenders and chefs after shift, to the hipster pickleback (one shot of Jameson's followed by one shot of pickle juice), if you only stock one whiskey in your home bar this should be it.
International Whisky of the Year
Mackmyra Swedish Single Malt Whisky, 1st edition. Nice toasted notes alongside coconut, vanilla and stone fruit with just a hint of smoke. A great whisky soon to be hitting the US market.
- Japanese Single Malt Whisky of the Year
Suntory Yamazaki 18. Spice, black pepper, caramel and vanilla tones all hold their own in this wonderful dram from Suntory.
- Japanese Blended Whisky of the Year
Suntory Hibiki 12 year. A new addition to the US market, Hibiki is the first blended Japanese whisky to come into our market in some time. As good as the best blended scotch whiskies.