Best European Spirit/Liqueur Types
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
Courvoisier
Cognac XO Royal
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
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.
Hailing from Gdańsk, this herbal liqueur is easily distinguished by the flakes of real gold. According to the written records, it first appeared in 1598, and it was an invention of a Dutch Ambrose Vermollen who created a recipe that was based on a secret combination of 20 different herbs and roots.
Considered as one of the oldest liqueurs in the world, Goldwasser comes at 40% ABV and displays both sweet and spicy cinnamon aromas, with underlying notes of licorice and mint. Though its history is closely intertwined with Poland, following the political turmoil and the Second World War Goldwasser is now produced in Germany, but it remains a symbol of the city of Gdańsk.
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.
Averna is a popular Italian bitter digestif that was named after its inventor Salvatore Averna who created it in 1868. Some sources state that the recipe was handed to the Avernas by a monk of the local San Spirito monastery. The exact ingredient list remains the Averna family secret, but this bittersweet liqueur is said to be made with more than 60 different herbs, roots, pomegranate, and the essential oils of bitter Sicilian lemons.
Though Averna is typically enjoyed on its own, served on the rocks or neat, it can also be used for various cocktails.
Chios Mastiha is a Greek liqueur that is made with Masticha Chiou—a resinous sap of the Schinias tree. Although Schinias is found in other Mediterranean countries, the plant only produces resin on Chios, presumably because of the island’s unique microclimate.
The liqueur is made by macerating Chios mastic or Chios mastic oil in grain spirit or distilling it with alcohol. The combination is then diluted with water and sweetened before it is bottled. Chios Mastiha must have a minimum of 15% ABV. The process results in a clear and subtly sweet spirit with fresh notes of pine, anise, herbs, and citrus fruit.
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
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Napoleon
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
Ortolan
De Sable XO Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2024
Hailing from Saronno, this renowned amaretto brand is produced with a base spirit, apricot kernel oil, burnt sugar, and 17 different herbs, fruits, and spices. The brand claimed the invention of the original amaretto in the 16th century, and throughout history, its production has remained in the hands of Reina family. Disaronno is distinguished for its use of apricot kernel oil, which provides it with a distinctive combination of almond and apricot flavors.
Because of its sweetness and smooth texture, it can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but it can also work well in a variety of cocktails and long drinks.
Best European Spirit/Liqueur Producers
Redbreast is a brand of single pot still Irish Whiskey produced by the Irish Distillers subsidiary of Pernod Ricard. It was originally bottled by Gilbey's, a Dublin spirits merchant using distillate sourced from Jameson's Bow Street Distillery.[1] In the 1980s, the brand was purchased by Irish Distillers, the producer of Jameson.
It is the largest selling single pot still Irish whiskey in the world.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021, 2020
Highland Park Distillery, located in Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, Scotland, is one of the oldest distilleries in the country, founded in 1798. Known for its distinctively rich and smoky single malt whiskies, Highland Park combines traditional craftsmanship with the unique influence of Orkney’s coastal climate and local peat.
The distillery's whiskies are celebrated for their balance of heather honey sweetness and aromatic peat smoke, crafted using time-honored methods and aged in sherry-seasoned oak casks.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
BEST Highland Park Spirits
Plantation Rum is a distinguished rum brand known for producing high-quality spirits with a focus on traditional craftsmanship and distinctive flavors. It is part of the Maison Ferrand family, a renowned producer of fine spirits, including cognac.
Plantation Rum is sourced from various regions around the world, including the Caribbean and Central America, where it is distilled using time-honored methods and aged in a combination of tropical and European barrels to enhance its complexity and character.
Plantation Rum is celebrated for its range of expressions, from rich, spiced varieties to more delicate, fruity offerings. The rum is crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of the sugarcane and the aging process, with each bottle reflecting the terroir of its origin.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Rum & Cachaça Masters - Gold
2023, 2022
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023, 2022, 2019
BEST Plantation Rum Spirits
Loch Lomond Whiskies is a renowned Scottish whisky brand, celebrated for its high-quality single malt and blended whiskies. Based near the iconic Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands, the distillery draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty and pure water source, which contribute to the distinct character of its whiskies.
The brand is known for its innovation in whisky production, utilizing unique distillation methods. One of their signature techniques is the use of a custom-designed still, called the “Loch Lomond still,” which allows for a wide range of flavor profiles, from rich and fruity to smooth and smoky.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
Distilleria Sibona is one of the oldest distilleries in the Piedmont region, located in the heart of Roero. It is renowned for its artisanal production of grappa, utilizing fresh pomace from prestigious local wineries. Sibona holds a unique historical distillation license and prides itself on its deep connection to traditional methods while incorporating modern techniques to ensure high-quality products.
Their grappa is aged in various types of barrels, including those used for sherry, port, and whiskey, enhancing the flavor profile and creating distinctive spirits.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2022, 2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021
BEST Distilleria Sibona Spirits
Torres Brandy is a renowned Spanish producer of high-quality brandies and spirits, based in Vilafranca del Penedès, Barcelona. The brand is part of the Torres family legacy, which has been dedicated to winemaking and distillation for generations since 1928.
They are recognized for blending tradition with innovation, producing premium spirits crafted from select white wines and aged meticulously in oak barrels. Their product portfolio includes various expressions of brandy, such as Torres 10, Torres 15, Torres 20, and Jaime I, each representing distinct levels of aging and complexity.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Miguel Torres Spirits
Royal Salute is a blended Scotch whisky brand produced and bottled by Chivas Brothers in Strathisla Distillery in Speyside, Scotland. Royal Salute is a luxury Scotch whisky brand, launched in 1953 as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. Known for its exclusivity, Royal Salute only produces whiskies aged 21 years or more, combining elegance and quality.
The brand celebrates British heritage through special releases and collaborations in art, fashion, and polo. Each bottle reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and tradition, catering to connoisseurs worldwide.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2021, 2020, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Ardbeg is a renowned Scottish whisky distillery from the island of Islay, celebrated for the intensely smoky and distinctive flavor of its products. Founded in 1815, the distillery is recognized for its unique process of drying barley over a peat fire, which imparts a singular aroma and richness to their whiskies.
With numerous awards and a loyal fan base worldwide, Ardbeg whisky is hailed as one of the most esteemed representations of the Islay style, often described as a true delight for peat lovers.
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
2024
Ferrand Cognac is a prestigious and renowned producer of high-quality cognac, based in the heart of the Cognac region in France. Founded in 1989 by Alexandre Gabriel, Ferrand is dedicated to producing premium, artisanal cognac using traditional methods and the finest ingredients.
The brand is known for its focus on craftsmanship, blending heritage with innovation, creating some of the most refined and well-respected cognacs in the world. Ferrand Cognac uses grapes from the renowned Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus, the top-rated regions in Cognac production.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2014
BEST Ferrand Cognac Spirits
Domaine Grand Comté, located in Roquelaure in the Gers department of southwestern France, is a family-owned estate managed by Michel Baylac and his daughter Aurélie, continuing a legacy dating back to 1860. The estate spans 15 hectares of vineyards planted on clay-limestone soils typical of the Haut-Armagnac terroir, and operates under sustainable farming practices that respect the environment.
Domaine Grand Comté produces a range of high-quality beverages, including IGP Côtes de Gascogne wines (red, rosé, and white), traditional Floc de Gascogne aperitifs, and aged Armagnac. The estate also offers sparkling wines crafted through traditional fermentation methods.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
BEST Domaine Du Grand Comte Spirits
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 European Spirits and Liqueurs” list until April 03, 2025, 8,341 ratings were recorded, of which 6,489 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.