Best Alcoholic Beverage Types in the World
Brunello di Montalcino is a red Italian wine produced in the vineyards surrounding the town of Montalcino in the Tuscany wine region. Though it was initially considered to be made from a separate grape variety named Brunello, it was later discovered that the grape used in the production of the wine is in fact Sangiovese.
Regarded as one of the most renowned Italian wines, Brunello di Montalcino was awarded the designation of origin (DOCG), and it is produced with 100% Sangiovese grapes. At first, it comes off as juicy and spicy, with notes of oregano and balsamic, and it may develop strong aromas of cherry and leather.
This full-bodied, red wine is made from Nebbiolo grapes in a small area in Piedmont with a unique soil and climate conditions. It has been produced since the 19th century, and soon after its invention, it became a favorite among the Italian and European nobility.
According to Italian DOCG regulations, Barolo needs to matured for at least 36 months, while those aged for five years carry the prestigious Riserva label. It is a robust, but elegant wine, which is very high in tannins that soften with aging.
THE BEST Barolo Wine Appellations
Vintage Port is a style made from the best grapes of a single year harvest. It is considered the most prestigious and the highest quality port style. Vintage is not produced every year, but only when port houses decide that the wine is of sufficient quality.
Vintages make only about 2% of all port production, and in the best years, all port houses will declare a Vintage. The decision to declare a Vintage can be made after Portugal’s Port Wine Institute had approved it. Vintages are barrel-aged for two to three years and are not filtered before they are bottled.
Rías Baixas is a Spanish appellation located along the Atlantic coast in Galicia. The entire region is divided into five subregions: Salnes Valley, O Rosal, Soutomaior, Ribeira do Ulla, and Condado do Tea. There are several permitted grape varieties, but Albariño prospers and dominates in the entire region.
Other permitted grapes that are sometimes used include Treixadura, Loureiro, Caiño Blanco, Torrontes, and Godello. The styles slightly differ depending on the subregion and the production, but most of the wines hail from the region are pale golden, fresh, and aromatic.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the largest and the most important appellation in the southern part of the Rhône Valley that comprises of five communes. Most Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines are predominantly red blends, with a small percentage of whites.
Officially eighteen grape varieties are allowed, including different colors of the same grape variety. However, the most common are Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Cinsault grapes. These rich wines can greatly differ in style, but they are mainly characterized by the spicy and earthy aromas of red berries, black pepper, tar, and leather.
THE BEST Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Appellations

Domaine de la Solitude
2021 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vin de la Solitude Red
James Suckling - 99 points 2024

Vinsanto is a dessert wine hailing from Santorini. It is made with sun-dried Assyrtiko and Aidani grapes. Despite a surprisingly similar name, this Greek wine does not have much in common with the more famous Vin Santo from Tuscany. The grapes are sun-dried for approximately fourteen days and are then fermented and aged.
This wine has to be oak-aged for a minimum of two years, but most producers opt for longer maturation. The result is a sweet and dense wine packed with flavor and rich in aromas. Although both grape varieties are white-skinned, Vinsanto will attain a luscious golden color that tends to turn into darker amber hues as the wine ages.
Naousa is a Greek appellation located in the region of Macedonia. The wines produced under the designation are made exclusively from Xynomavro—an indigenous Greek grape that is often compared to Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo. Naousa wines display the perfect balance of tannins, sugar, and acidity, while the typical aromas and flavors include a complex combination of savory notes that are often reminiscent of dark and red fruit, tomatoes, plums, earth, tobacco, herbs, and spices.
Naousa ages exceptionally well and is rarely enjoyed young. Because of its complexity and finesse, it is often cited as one of the finest Greek wines. An ideal pairing for this tannic wine is game, lamb, tomato-based sauces, rich stews, sausages, mushrooms, and aged cheese.
Georgian amphora wine is produced with an ancient wine-making method in which pressed grapes, including skins, juice (tkbili), stalks, and pips, are poured in traditional terracotta amphorae known as qvevri (kvevri). The amphorae are sealed and are then buried underground, or kept in Marani—underground cellars.
Usually, the wine is left to ferment from five to six months. The method is used throughout the country, though the wines can slightly vary in styles depending on the region. In Kakheti, the wine is produced with whole chacha—pomace—while in Imereti approximately only a third is used.
Dwójniak is a traditional mead product with an alcohol content ranging from 15 to 18 % vol., fermented from mead wort and produced throughout Poland. To be called Dwójniak, mead must be made from one part honey and one part water.
It gets its name from the numeral 2, referring to the proportions of mead and water. It is a clear alcoholic beverage, with a unique aroma and flavor of honey, which may be enhanced using spices such as cloves, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon. It is golden to dark amber in color, depending on the type of honey used in the process.
Póltorak is a mead produced in Poland in accordance with old Polish traditions that date back over a thousand years. Its alcohol content ranges from 15 to 18% vol. and it is fermented from mead wort. In order to be called Póltorak", the mead must be made in proportions of one part honey to 0,5 part water (alternatively, water mixed with fruit juice).
It gets its name from the numeral '1,5' (póltora in Polish), referring to the ratio of honey and water. This alcoholic beverage is golden to dark amber, with a delicate aroma and flavor of honey, which may be enhanced with spices such as ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon or cloves.
Best Alcoholic Beverage Producers in the World
Louis Roederer is one of the most prestigious and oldest independent Champagne houses, synonymous with luxury, tradition, and innovation. Founded in 1776 in the heart of Champagne, in the city of Reims, this family-run house has been nurturing the art of producing exceptional Champagnes for centuries, captivating connoisseurs worldwide.
The true rise of the house began in 1833, when Louis Roederer took over the family business and introduced a revolutionary approach—unlike other producers who purchased grapes, he decided to own and cultivate his own vineyards. This decision allowed him complete control over quality, terroir, and the unique style of his Champagnes, establishing the Louis Roederer brand’s distinctive signature.
AWARDS

Wine Spectator - 98
2022

Falstaff - 100

Falstaff - 99
BEST Louis Roederer Wines
Krug is one of the most prestigious and revered Champagne houses, renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence and the artistry of champagne-making. Founded in 1843 by Johann Joseph Krug, this family-run house has always adhered to a philosophy of uncompromising quality, emphasizing the individuality of each vintage and terroir.
Krug stands apart with its unique approach—each bottle of champagne is crafted from meticulously selected wines from different years and vineyards, creating unparalleled depth, complexity, and richness. Their most iconic champagne, Krug Grande Cuvée, embodies this philosophy, blending up to 200 wines from over 10 different vintages to achieve perfect harmony and sophistication in every edition.
AWARDS

Wine Spectator - 99
2021

Falstaff - 100

Falstaff - 99
BEST Krug Wines
AWARDS

James Suckling - 99 points
2024

Falstaff - 99

Vivino - 4.6
BEST Champagne Billecart-Salmon Wines
The Champagne house Bollinger, founded in 1829 in Aÿ, France, stands as a symbol of excellence and tradition in the world of champagne. Bollinger is distinguished by its unique style that blends power, refinement, and complexity, allowing fruity aromas to fully express themselves.
Their wines, such as the iconic Special Cuvée, reflect richness and depth of flavor, thanks to a careful selection of grapes and traditional winemaking methods. For nearly two centuries, Bollinger has remained true to its family values and independence, which has enabled the house to preserve authenticity and consistent quality in its champagnes.
AWARDS

Falstaff - 100

Falstaff - 99

Vivino - 4.6
BEST Bollinger Wines
Charles Heidsieck is a prestigious Champagne house founded in 1851 in Reims, France, by Charles-Camille Heidsieck, famously known as “Champagne Charlie.” He was a pioneer in popularizing Champagne in the United States during the 19th century, earning a strong reputation thanks to his entrepreneurial spirit and charisma.
The house is renowned for its historic cellars, known as “crayères” — ancient chalk caves dating back to Roman times — which provide ideal conditions for aging Champagne. These cellars are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Throughout its history, Charles Heidsieck has earned acclaim from numerous royal and imperial families, a testament to the exceptional quality of its wines.
AWARDS

James Suckling - 95 points
2024

James Suckling - 94 points
2024

James Suckling - 93 points
2024
BEST Champagne Charles Heidsieck Wines
The Taittinger Champagne House stands as a symbol of elegance, refinement, and unwavering commitment to quality. Founded in the heart of the Champagne region, this family-owned winery nurtures a long tradition of crafting exceptional champagnes that captivate the world with their freshness, finesse, and depth of flavor.
Unlike many major houses, Taittinger remains firmly in family hands, ensuring a personal dedication to every step of the winemaking process. Their vineyards span an impressive 288 hectares, with a significant portion planted with Chardonnay — a varietal that lends Taittinger champagnes their distinctive, sophisticated character.
AWARDS

James Suckling - 99 points
2024

Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2024, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017

International Wine Challenge - IWC Champion Sparkling Wine 2020 - Daniel Thibault Trophy
2020
For over 175 years, Pol Roger has stood as a symbol of uncompromising quality, refined craftsmanship, and understated sophistication in the world of champagne. Remaining proudly family-owned through five generations, the house is celebrated for its consistent style—fresh, balanced, and remarkably elegant.
Every bottle is produced and aged in Pol Roger’s own deep chalk cellars, where ideal conditions allow the wines to mature slowly and gracefully. Known for their fine bubbles, purity of structure, and vibrant freshness, Pol Roger champagnes are equally at home in grand celebrations or quiet moments of indulgence.
AWARDS

Falstaff - 100

Vivino - 4.6
BEST Pol Roger Wines
Founded in 1729, Ruinart holds the distinction of being the oldest established champagne house, born from a vision rooted in enlightenment, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for both nature and art. For nearly three centuries, Ruinart has remained true to its refined, luminous style, with Chardonnay at the heart of its identity.
Ruinart champagnes are celebrated for their purity, freshness, and bright expression. Known for their finesse and delicate minerality, they offer subtle citrus and floral notes that bring lightness and vibrancy to every sip. Their uniquely shaped bottles – inspired by 18th-century wine flasks – reflect a perfect harmony of tradition and modernity.
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
Cierto Tequila is a premium tequila producer renowned for its artisanal approach and commitment to excellence. Crafted in Jalisco, Mexico, Cierto sources 100% Blue Weber agave grown in both the highlands and lowlands, ensuring a balanced and complex flavor profile.
The brand emphasizes sustainability and traditional production techniques, including slow cooking in brick ovens and careful aging in French and American oak barrels. Cierto offers a range of luxury tequilas, including Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo expressions, each celebrated for its smoothness, richness, and elegance.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
BEST Cierto Tequila Spirits
Best Alcoholic Beverages in the World
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021
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
This high proof, Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon was named for Henry McKenna, the Irish immigrant who adapted his family's whiskey recipe to work with the grains he found in Kentucky. Henry McKenna is one of the longest aged Bottled-in-Bond whiskeys available today, resting in the barrel through 40 Kentucky seasons.
Critics agree that this is perfectly balanced Bourbon.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2023
Knappogue Castle offers a distinguished range of limited-edition single malt Irish whiskeys, each showcasing unique aging processes and cask finishes. Notably, the Knappogue Castle 21 Year Old Single Malt is a marriage of two single malts—one aged 23 years and the other 21 years—both matured in ex-bourbon casks.
This expression is non-chill filtered and bottled at 92 proof, delivering a soft and mellow taste with malty richness throughout.
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
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
With a desire to innovate and introduce a unique style of gin to Brazil, BEG developed the BEG New World Navy Gin. With 54% alcohol content, this gin contains over twice the juniper of the BEG Brazilian Boutique Dry Gin. Part of the ingredients is infused via steam extraction, while another part is macerated for 24 hours, as in the original recipe.
The result is a gin with greater complexity in aroma and flavor, ideal for enhancing your favorite drink.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024

Bartender Spirits Awards - Gold
2023
Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon, named in honor of Colonel Albert Blanton, is a pioneering bourbon with a rich legacy. Crafted from a handpicked, limited supply, this bourbon offers a deep and complex aroma, blending warm nutmeg and spices with dry vanilla notes.
The palate reveals harmonious flavors of honey, bold caramel, and corn, leading to a medium finish where the corn and nutmeg reemerge, leaving a satisfying and lasting impression. First introduced in 1984, Blanton's remains a benchmark as the first Single Barrel Bourbon sold commercially, encapsulating both history and exceptional craftsmanship.
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
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
An exquisite dessert wine from Australia's De Bortoli family winery Picked late on the vine, the grapes’ natural sugars have been allowed to intensify, resulting in a golden hued wine boasting a delicate concentration of citrus, peach and apricot flavours that are both sumptuous and fresh.
Fabulous with sweet desserts, but try it with blue cheese for an inspired pairing. One of the most famed dessert wines.
AWARDS

International Wine Challenge - IWC Great Value Champion Sweet 2023
2023

International Wine Challenge - IWC Great Value Champion Sweet 2020
2020

International Wine Challenge - IWC Great Value Champion Sweet 2019
2019
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















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 Alcoholic Beverages in the World” list until March 26, 2025, 40,389 ratings were recorded, of which 30,717 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.