TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Spirit Types in the World
Often dubbed as the whisky center, Speyside is one of five official Scottish whisky regions. Although it is geographically a part of Highlands, this area is a separate appellation, because of the large concentration of distilleries and the high-quality single malts that come from the area.
Whiskies that are produced in the region are less peaty than other styles, but their character can vary from floral and fruity to rich and spicy. Although they were once similar to the robust styles in the Highlands, most distilleries in the area have shifted their focus on lighter and sweeter styles that display classic flavors of vanilla, apple, honey, oak, and dry fruit.
THE BEST Speyside whisky Spirits
Longmorn
Longmorn 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
The Glenlivet
The Glenlivet 15 Years Old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold 2021, 2020
Extra old Cognac label is the one with a blend that has been aged the longest. Although the previous legislation stated that XO needs to be at least six years old, new categorization, which will be fully implemented by March 31, 2019, will indicate that to be labeled as an XO, the blend will have to be at least ten years old.
However, the age limitation only signifies that the youngest in the blend is six (ten) years old, but when it comes to XO most blends are significantly older than that. XO Cognac should always be served neat in a snifter glass, and are best enjoyed as a digestif.
THE BEST XO Cognac Brandies
Martell
Single Cru Grande Champagne XO
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Cognac XO N°20
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Single Cask N. 89
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold 2020
Tsikoudia is a Cretan spirit that is distilled from fermented grape pomace (strafylo)—the solid remains that are left after the grapes have been pressed. Tsikoudia is traditionally distilled in October and November, usually in small, family-owned copper stills.
The final product is a clear, potent, and colorless drink with an alcohol content that can vary from 40 to 65% ABV. Tsikoudia is similar to tsipouro, another pomace spirit that is produced in other parts of Greece. Unlike tsipouro, tsikoudia is typically distilled only once, which helps preserve flavors and aromas.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Viljamovka is a type of fruit brandy (rakija) that is distilled from Williams pear. This mellow and aromatic spirit is produced and enjoyed in several Balkan countries. It is often regarded as the finest type of fruit brandy produced in the region.
Viljamovka is made with fresh, ripe pears that are fermented before they are distilled. The result is a clear and colorless spirit that typically has an intensive pear aroma, mellow flavor, and a long, warming finish. Viljamovka is traditionally enjoyed as an aperitif.
Extra añejo tequila variety is matured for at least three years in oak barrels that have a maximum capacity of 160 gallons (600 liters). Longer aging time creates a drink of exceptional quality, and ultra-aged tequila varieties are typically incredibly complex, with a dark golden hue, and a mellow and long finish.
They are occasionally marketed as Reserva and usually come with a high price tag.
THE BEST Extra añejo tequila Spirits
Avion Tequila
Reserva 44 Extra Añejo
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023
Añejo is a tequila variety that has been matured for at least one year in oak barrels with a maximum capacity of 160 gallons (600 liters). The barrels are occasionally those once used for bourbon or cognac. This resting period in these barrels imparts a slightly darker golden hue to Añejo tequila, while its aromatic profile becomes more complex, and usually displays aromas of spices and vanilla.
THE BEST Añejo tequila Spirits
Don Fulano
Añejo Tequila
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2022
Cierto Tequila
Cierto Private Collection Añejo
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold 2022, 2021
Milagro Tequila
Milagro Añejo Tequila
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold 2023
Milagro Tequila
Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Añejo Tequila
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold 2023
Slavonian plum brandy is the most popular drink in eastern Croatia. It is distilled from locally grown fresh and ripe plums such as Bistrica, which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. This clear drink can range from light yellow to amber in color, depending on whether it is aged in Slavonian oak.
It is characterized by harmonious aromas of plums and a long finish, while its alcohol content may range from 37.5 to 42.5%. Slavonian šljivovica is not merely a drink, it is deeply integrated into Slavonian tradition, and no special event or gathering is complete without a shot of well-chilled šljivovica.
Considered to be one of the first grape brandy varieties produced in France, Armagnac originated in Gascony, a historic area now divided between the regions of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Occitanie. The first written records on Armagnac date back to the 15th century, when it was mainly used as a stomach remedy.
Although the predominant grape is Ugni Blanc, ten different grapes are allowed in its production, and since the 19th century, Armagnac is almost always distilled once. The final blend is then aged in oak casks for a minimum of two years. Maturation provides Armagnac with the signature complex flavor, and while young varieties show vanilla and honey notes, matured versions are typically characterized by the flavor of roasted nuts, licorice, and tobacco.
THE BEST Armagnac Brandies
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Hors D’age
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Château du Tariquet
Pure Folle Blanche 15 YO Bas-Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Armagnac Gold Trophy 2020
Chateau de Laubade
Cask Strength 1994 Bas Armagnac
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy 2022
Armagnac Janneau
Armagnac Chevalier D'Espalet VS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Dark rum is probably the most complex and confusing rum category. The term is often differently explained, but it is mostly used to classify longer-aged rum styles with more pronounced flavors. Although the color is primarily attained from long-term aging in charred sherry or bourbon barrel, it can also be obtained from different distillation techniques, longer contact with molasses, and the addition of caramel.
To add to the confusion, the term dark rum is sometimes used to distinguish it for clear, white rum or to denote Demerara rum from Guyana. Good-quality dark rum can be appreciated neat, but it is also used in cocktails to provide a somewhat heavier element and more flavor.
THE BEST Dark Rum Spirits
Ten To One
Black History Month Artist Edition
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
William Grant & Sons
Wood's 100 Old Navy Rum
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold 2016, 2014, 2012
Reposado is a tequila variety that has been aged for a minimum of two, and a maximum of twelve months, usually in French or American oak. This tequila is characterized by a pale golden color and mellow agave flavor. It is praised for its complexity and a great, subtle balance of agave and wood aromas.
Reposado is the most common tequila variety enjoyed in Mexico.
THE BEST Reposado tequila Spirits
Cierto Tequila
Cierto Reserve Collection Reposado
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
Cutwater Spirits
Cutwater Tequila Reposado
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold 2023, 2022, 2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Spirit Producers in the World
Reid's Distillery is a family-run craft distillery devoted to the art of exceptional gin making, where passion for quality, tradition, and modern creativity come together in every bottle. Their gins are crafted using Canadian wheat and a thoughtful blend of botanicals, with wild-foraged Canadian juniper taking center stage to deliver a truly distinctive flavor profile.
Inspired by a spirit of exploration and a desire to create something uniquely their own, Reid’s combines classic distillation techniques with a bold, contemporary approach. The result is a collection of gins that are elegant, nuanced, and instantly memorable—ranging from timeless dry styles to inventive, aromatic expressions.
Ampersand Distilling is a family-run distillery devoted to the craft of spirit-making that blends technical precision, artistic expression, and a deep commitment to quality. Their philosophy, reflected in the very name "Ampersand," symbolizes the union of seemingly opposite worlds—science and tradition, craftsmanship and innovation, simplicity and complexity.
Driven by a passion for creating something genuine and enduring, the team meticulously oversees every step of the process—from selecting ingredients to refining the final flavor profile—ensuring that each spirit embodies character, clarity, and consistency.
Sheringham Distillery is an award-winning distillery located on the west coast of Canada, in Langford, British Columbia. Founded with the vision of creating premium, handcrafted spirits that reflect the spirit and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Sheringham quickly earned a reputation for its quality, innovation, and commitment to local ingredients.
They are best known for their Seaside Gin, a unique gin infused with notes of sea salt and local seaweed from the shores of Vancouver Island, creating a complex yet refreshing flavor profile. It is often recognized as one of the best gins in Canada.
AWARDS
World Liqueur Awards - Country Winner
2024
BEST Sheringham Distillery Spirits
Ocho Tequila is a renowned producer of high-quality, artisanal tequila, celebrated for its commitment to tradition and transparency. Founded by Tomas Estes, a global tequila ambassador, and Carlos Camarena, a master distiller from a legendary tequila family, Ocho is known for being the first tequila to designate its production from specific agave fields, emphasizing terroir in its flavor profile.
Crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave grown in Jalisco, Mexico, Ocho Tequila is produced using traditional methods, including slow cooking in brick ovens and natural fermentation. Each batch is made from agave harvested in a single estate, showcasing the unique characteristics of the land.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020
BEST Tequila Ocho Spirits
High Bank Distillery, based in Columbus, Ohio, was founded by four partners with a passion for quality spirits. Inspired by the historical confluence of the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, which led to Columbus's founding in 1812, the distillery produces a range of premium spirits, including whiskey, vodka, and gin.
Their "Whiskey War" blend has won awards for Best Blended Whiskey in America for three consecutive years at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. In addition to the distillery, High Bank operates restaurants where guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails and modern American cuisine.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2023
BEST High Bank Distillery Spirits
Iichiko is a renowned Japanese producer of shochu, a traditional Japanese spirit made from various ingredients like barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. Founded by Sanwa Shurui, Iichiko is famous for its commitment to high-quality production and innovation.
Headquartered in the Oita Prefecture of Kyushu, Japan, an area known for its clean water and natural beauty, Iichiko has become a global leader in the shochu industry. Iichiko's most notable products include its flagship barley-based shochu, iichiko Saiten, which is crafted using unique methods such as the "all Koji" fermentation technique.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2022
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
BEST Iichiko Spirits
Mezcal Vago is a producer focused on small-batch, artisanal mezcals sourced from remote regions of Oaxaca, Mexico. The brand collaborates with four master mezcaleros, each using traditional methods passed down through generations. Their mezcals reflect the distinct terroir of the area and the unique craftsmanship of each producer.
Mezcal Vago emphasizes authenticity, sustainability, and the deep cultural heritage of mezcal-making.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2022, 2020
BEST Mezcal Vago Spirits
Heaven Hill Distillery, founded in 1935, is one of the largest independent, family-owned distilleries in the United States. Located in Bardstown, Kentucky, it is renowned for producing some of the most iconic American whiskeys, including Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny.
The distillery boasts a rich heritage in crafting premium bourbons and other spirits, blending tradition with innovation. Heaven Hill is also home to one of the largest inventories of aging whiskey in the world, reflecting its commitment to quality and authenticity.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019
BEST Heaven Hill Distillery Spirits
Starward Whisky, founded in 2007 by David Vitale, is an Australian distillery located in Melbourne. The distillery is renowned for its innovative approach to whisky production, utilizing locally sourced ingredients and maturing its spirits in Australian red wine barrels.
This unique maturation process imparts distinctive flavors to their whiskies, reflecting the rich wine heritage of the region.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
BEST Starward Spirits
Aura Distillery, located in Buzet, Istria, Croatia, is a family-run business specializing in the production of spirits, liqueurs, jams, and gins made from wild herbs and fruits harvested in unspoiled nature. Their products are entirely natural, with no additives, artificial flavors, or colorings.
The distillery offers a diverse range of 25 types of brandies and liqueurs, four types of gin, and nine types of jams, alongside products like extra virgin olive oil and elderflower vinegar. Their flagship product, Teranino, is a liqueur made from Teran red wine and ten spices, renowned for winning numerous gold medals at prestigious global competitions.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024, 2023
European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2024
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
BEST Aura Destillery Spirits
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Spirits in the World
Reid’s Signature Gin is an elegant dry gin that blends timeless distilling traditions with Canadian character and a modern approach to flavor. Crafted from high-quality Canadian wheat and infused with hand-harvested Canadian juniper and wild sweet fern, it delivers a perfectly balanced profile—crisp, aromatic, and refreshing, with subtle earthy and piney notes.
Its refined composition makes it exceptionally versatile—ideal for a classic gin and tonic, a sophisticated martini, or inventive cocktails. Whether sipped neat, over ice, or mixed, Reid’s Gin offers an experience that brings together tradition, nature, and artisanal skill in every drop.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2023
Ampersand Gin is a refined, small-batch gin that perfectly blends the art and science of distilling. Crafted with precision and care, it features a balanced infusion of seven carefully selected botanicals, including juniper, coriander, angelica root, cardamom, lemon peel, sweet almond shells, and licorice.
Distilled from locally grown wheat, it offers a crisp and refreshing profile, with subtle citrus and spice notes that create an exceptionally smooth finish. Its elegance and complexity make it a versatile choice—equally at home in a classic martini or gin and tonic, yet refined enough to be enjoyed on its own.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2022, 2021
Lemon Gin Liqueur is a handcrafted spirit that captures the essence of premium lemons. With an alcohol content of 25%, this liqueur is crafted on a gin base specifically designed to complement the juice of high-quality lemons. The result is a harmonious balance of fresh, tart lemon notes gently sweetened to create a refreshing and versatile beverage.
Ideal for various serving options, the Fresh Lemon Liqueur can be enjoyed on its own, shaken over ice, or as a key ingredient in simple cocktails. Its bright and sophisticated profile evokes the simple pleasures of summer, making it a delightful choice for any season.
AWARDS
World Liqueur Awards - Country Winner
2024
Seaside Gin is the flagship product of Sheringham Distillery, inspired by the coastline of Vancouver Island. This gin combines botanical ingredients such as juniper, rose, lavender, citrus, coriander, and cardamom with locally and sustainably harvested Alaria marginata (commonly known as “winged kelp”), which lends a subtle salty note and a unique taste of the sea.
This gin is exceptionally versatile - it can be sipped neat, enjoyed over ice, or mixed into cocktails like a classic gin and tonic. Its complex yet balanced flavor profile makes it a favorite among gin enthusiasts. Its aroma is bright and herbaceous, with a gentle saline finish that awakens the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023, 2022
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is one of the most renowned whiskeys in the world, known for its bold and intense flavor. This bourbon offers rich notes of dark chocolate, caramel, butter, with earthy tones of walnut and hazelnut, while the palate features warm vanilla, oak, and spicy notes.
With a high alcohol content, it delivers a deep and long-lasting finish. Best served neat or with a splash of water, unfiltered and in its purest form.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023, 2022, 2020
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023, 2022, 2020
Talisker 30 YO is an extremely rare, well-matured single malt bottled in strictly limited quantities. Three decades of purposeful, skilled ageing have nurtured and gently shaped this visceral whisky, created in celebration of the highest summit in Skye.
In it's lofty heights, the wild and untamed nature of this fascinating island is revealed in all its glory, and so Talisker 30 YO is also among the absolute best that Skye has to offer.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
Depaz Reserve Speciale VSOP is a premium aged rum crafted in Martinique, made from fresh sugarcane juice grown on the fertile volcanic soil of Mount Pelée. This VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) rum is aged for at least four years in small oak barrels, which impart rich and complex flavors of vanilla, dried fruits, and spices.
It has a smooth, well-rounded taste with a subtle smokiness and a long, warm finish, making it an excellent choice for sipping or using in refined cocktails.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Rum Gold Trophy
2021
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
AWARDS
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023, 2022, 2021
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023, 2022, 2021
Barrell Craft Spirits Private Release Whiskey Finished in a Pedro Ximenez Sherry Barrel DSX3 American Whiskey
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Spirits in the World” list until April 12, 2025, 7,721 ratings were recorded, of which 5,371 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.