Best Highland Scottish 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
Islay is a Scottish island and one of the officially recognized Scottish whisky regions. There are nine operational distilleries on the island, and most of them produce strong, robust, smoky, and peated whisky, but there are also fruity and smooth examples.
Southern distilleries mostly rely on peat, and their whisky tends to be packed with salinity, while those in the north mostly focus on slightly milder and lighter styles. Regardless of some differences, Islay whisky is complimented as the strongest-flavored variety.
In terms of size, Highland is the largest region designated for the production of Scottish whisky. It covers most of the Scottish mainland, and though it sometimes includes the islands, they are mostly regarded as a separate region. Because of its size and diverse geography, Highland single malts may significantly vary in character.
Single malts from the north tend to be full-bodied, rich, and sweet, while those found in the east and the south will be lighter and more fruity. Styles from the west are typically more powerful, peaty, and smoky. Some of the top producers include Dalmore, Glenmorangie, Aberfeldy, Glen Garioch, Clynelish, Pulteney, and Oban.
Campbeltown is a small whisky region that was once the center of Scottish whisky production. Nowadays, there are only three distilleries left, but Campbeltown remains an important area that produces distinctive and unique styles. Whisky from Campbeltown can slightly vary in character, but they are usually peaty and often robust, with salty, smoky, and fruity nuances that are complemented by hints of vanilla and toffee.
Three distilleries in Campbeltown are Springbank, Glengyle, and Glen Scotia.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Stroma is a Scottish whisky-based liqueur made with a careful selection of malt whiskies from Old Pulteney. This sweet, golden-colored liqueur has a rich and smooth texture and notes of toffee, citruses, honey, and dried fruit. Their sweet character is well-balanced with earthy and grain-like Scotch undertones.
The finish is pleasant and warm. The liqueur is named after the island of Stroma, but the name also translates to an island in the stream, which is a reference to the dangerous waters around the island and off the North East coast, where the Pulteney distillery is located.
Best Highland Scottish Spirit/Liqueur Producers
Talisker distillery is an island single malt Scotch whisky distillery based in Carbost, Scotland on the Minginish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye. The distillery is operated by Diageo and Taliskers’ 10 year old whisky has been nominated as part of their Classic Malts series.
Whiskies attributed to the Talisker brand have been praised by whisky commentators such as Jim Murray.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2023, 2022
Glenfiddich is one of the most renowned and awarded producers of single malt whisky in the world, with a rich tradition dating back to 1887. Founded in Dufftown, in the heart of Scotland's Speyside region, Glenfiddich remains family-owned and proudly continues to use the same traditional production methods, combining craftsmanship with innovation.
Their whiskies are celebrated for their complex flavor profiles, elegance, and carefully selected ingredients, with a special emphasis on the purity of spring water and a long maturation process in oak casks. Glenfiddich offers a diverse range of whiskies that capture the distinct qualities of Scottish single malts.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2021, 2020, 2019
BEST Glenfiddich Spirits
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
BEST Tomintoul 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
Glen Moray is a Scottish whisky distillery located in the heart of the Speyside region, renowned for producing exceptional single malt whiskies. Established in 1897, the distillery utilizes traditional distillation methods to craft whiskies with a distinctive, rich, and fruity flavor profile.
Glen Moray is committed to its long heritage and artisanal approach, with its whisky aging in carefully selected casks to develop its unique taste.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
BEST Glen Moray Spirits
The GlenAllachie Distillery, located in Speyside, Scotland, produces single malt Scotch whisky under the guidance of master distiller Billy Walker. Known for its traditional craftsmanship, The GlenAllachie emphasizes long, patient maturation in various cask types to enhance complex flavors.
Each whisky expression, from core collections to limited editions, reflects a commitment to quality and innovation in the Scotch whisky world.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024, 2022
Old Pulteney distillery is a malt whisky production and aging facility in the Pulteneytown area of Wick, Caithness, in the Highland area of Scotland. The distillery produces the Old Pulteney single malt whisky at a number of ages and has a visitor centre in Huddart Street.
The distillery was established in 1826 in the name of Sir William Pulteney. The distillery was the most northerly on the Scottish mainland and was quite inaccessible, except by sea.
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
BEST Old Pulteney Spirits
The Isle of Raasay Distillery, located at Borodale House on the Isle of Raasay, is the first legal distillery on the island, established in 2017. The distillery produces Scotch whisky and gin, using water from its own source to fully embrace the island's influence on its products.
Visitors can enjoy distillery tours, tastings, and accommodation within the facility, offering a unique experience on this remote Hebridean island.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whisky Highball Gold
2023
The Gin Masters - Gold
2022
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2022
BEST Isle of Raasay Distillery Spirits
Glenmorangie is a prestigious Scottish distillery renowned for its high-quality single malt whiskies, located in Tain, in the Highland region of Scotland. Founded in 1843, the distillery uses uniquely tall copper stills, the tallest in Scotland, which contribute to the light, fruity character of their whiskies.
Glenmorangie whiskies often mature in carefully selected oak casks, including those used for special finishing processes, adding complex flavors and aromas to their award-winning products.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021, 2020, 2019
BEST The Glenmorangie Company Spirits
Tomatin Distillery, located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, is one of the highest distilleries in Scotland, situated at an elevation of 315 meters. Established in 1897, the distillery is renowned for producing rich and smooth whiskies with distinctive fruity and malty notes, thanks to the pure water sourced from the nearby Monadhliath Mountains.
Dedicated to sustainability, Tomatin blends traditional distillation methods with modern techniques, making its products highly regarded worldwide. Their portfolio features a diverse range of whiskies, from classic single malts to exclusive and vintage releases.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Silver
2024
BEST Tomatin Distillery Spirits
Best Highland Scottish Spirits and Liqueurs
The Highland Park 21-Year-Old 2022 release is a complex and mature whisky crafted from 14 casks laid down in 2000 and earlier. It opens with aromas of espresso, dark chocolate, and marmalade, followed by ginger and oriental spice from sherry-seasoned oak.
Sweet citrus and cedar notes from ex-bourbon barrels add complexity, with heather-infused peat smoke tying it all together. It's an exceptional example of Highland Park's craftsmanship, combining three distinctive cask types.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
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
Perfumed aromas of luscious tropical fruit flow on the breeze, while curious notes of herbal incense and smoke follow closely behind. Menthol lozenge and saddle soap laps over charred green pepper, before smoked mango, guava and coconut mingle in an effervescing top note.
A creamy mouthfeel leads the way into a crashing symphony of herbal, spicy flavours. Smoked maple cured bacon, charcoal, white pepper and clove rush forth amid gentle overtones of the outdoors in wood smoke and sea spray. A satisfyingly long finish welcomes more tropical notes, with fragrant heather, warm toffee and smoked butter on the horizon.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2020
Blended from over 50 of Scotland’s most exceptional malt and grain whiskies, the deep and complex flavour profile echoes the time-honoured tradition of the 62 Gun Salute. An explosion of power, bursting with a zenith of intense sweet orange, mingles with a superb depth of nutty, oaky flavour.
Just a sensation of smoke evokes a top dressing of distinction.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whiskey Gold Trophy
2023
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021, 2019
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2020
Distiller, Robert Fleming, carefully selects the finest American oak ex-bourbon barrels to mature Tomintoul 21 Year Old Single Malt, resulting in an award-winning whisky. It features fresh citrus fruits on the nose, sweet toffee on the palate, and finishes with a gentle spicy warmth.
On the nose, expect aromas of nougat, ruby grapefruit, and cranberry, while the palate delights with baked apple, honeycomb, and Danish pastries, finishing with hints of apple strudel, cedar spice, and cinnamon.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whiskey Gold Trophy
2023
Highland Park’s 18-Year-Old Viking Pride single malt whisky is known for its rich layers of baked cherries, dark chocolate, and salted honeycomb, with hints of orange zest and heathered peat smoke. This full-bodied whisky matures in sherry-seasoned European and American oak casks, creating a balanced complexity.
It has won multiple prestigious awards and is loved for its depth and smooth, slightly spicy finish.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2022
The Highland Park 12-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky is a vibrant, well-rounded expression with a distinctively balanced flavor profile. It features notes of Seville oranges, heather honey, and spiced fruitcake, along with the characteristic Orkney peat smoke.
Crafted in sherry-seasoned oak casks, this whisky has a warm and mellow finish, capturing the spirit of its island origins.
AWARDS
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
The Glenrothes 18-Year-Old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is part of the Soleo Collection. It is matured in sherry-seasoned oak casks, offering a deep and complex profile. The whisky is known for flavors of dried fruit, vanilla, spice, and a hint of citrus, providing a smooth and luxurious finish.
It's an excellent choice for whisky enthusiasts who appreciate a well-aged and richly flavored single malt.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2022, 2020
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2020
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
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