Best British Alcoholic Beverage 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.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Contrary to its name, this cocktail does not have much in common with a classic Martini. Porn Star is a version that combines vanilla-flavored vodka, passion fruit liqueur, lime juice, and passion fruit purée, while a shot of Champagne (sometimes Prosecco) is served on the side.
To prepare it, all the ingredients, except sparkling wine, are poured in a shaker filled with ice and are shaken, and then strained into a chilled glass. The cocktail was created in the early 2000s by Douglas Ankrah at The Townhouse bar. Ankrah initially named it Maverick but decided to change it as the drink reminded him of something a porn star would drink.
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.
Imperial stout is a strong and opaque dark beer that was first brewed in London, but which is mostly associated with Russia, Baltic countries, and recently with the United States. Modern imperial stouts will typically range from deep red to dark brown.
They are full-bodied, rich, complex, and intense with typical flavors of roasted malt, dark and dried fruit, chocolate, and coffee. Most varieties will be high in alcohol, typically between 8 to 12% ABV, and they will mostly be high in hops and bitter hop flavors.
THE BEST Imperial stout Ales
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Espresso Martini is a rich and creamy cocktail made with a combination of vodka, espresso, sugar syrup, and coffee liqueur. All ingredients are first mixed in a shaker with ice, and then strained into a Martini glass. There should be a nice froth on top, which is usually garnished with a few coffee beans.
This cocktail was invented by Dick Bradsell, a bartending guru, who first named it Vodka Espresso, and then Pharmaceutical Stimulant. He first prepared it at Fred’s Club in the late 1980s for a young model who is now world-famous.
Sweet stout is a beer style that is usually brewed with the addition of milk sugar (lactose). It is also known as cream or milk stout, and it emerged in England sometime in the early 1900s. Sweet stouts are dark and full-bodied beers that have grainy malt flavors and aromas, often with hints of coffee and chocolate.
They are smooth and creamy, with medium hop bitterness, while their malty character is well-balanced with medium to high sweetness. Sweet stouts are an ideal pairing with chocolate desserts, but they can also work well with creamy cheese varieties, spicy dishes, game, and rich sauces.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Gimlet is a simple yet classic cocktail that originated in England. The cocktail is named after Sir Thomas Gimlette, who supposedly invented it at the end of the 19th century. In the past, Gimlet was made with equal parts gin and lime cordial (typically Rose's lime juice), but modern versions are usually less sweet and made with one part lime cordial and two parts gin.
The ingredients should be well stirred with ice in a mixing glass and served with a lime wheel garnish.
Scotch ale is a beer style distinguished for its malty character and rich caramel flavors. These big, bold, and full-bodied beers are typically light copper to dark-brown and mostly have a high alcohol content, usually falling between 6 to 10% ABV range.
Their aromas and flavors are dominated by rich malty expressions and caramel-like qualities, along with typical notes of molasses, dried fruit, and plums. They often have some malty sweetness on the palate, while the hop aroma and flavor are low or absent.
THE BEST Scotch ale Ales
Best British Alcoholic Beverage Producers
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
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
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
John Dewar & Sons, established in 1846 in Perth, Scotland, by John Dewar, is a prominent name in the Scotch whisky industry. The company expanded rapidly under the leadership of John’s sons, Alexander and Tommy, who successfully promoted the brand worldwide.
In 1998, Dewar & Sons became part of Bacardi and continues to thrive with operations across Scotland. The company owns five distilleries: Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, Macduff, and Royal Brackla, contributing to its rich heritage in whisky production.
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
Glengoyne Distillery is a renowned whisky distillery located in the Scottish Highlands, just north of Glasgow, known for its commitment to crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whisky. The distillery, which has been in operation since 1833, produces whiskies that are celebrated for their smoothness, depth, and complexity.
What sets Glengoyne apart is its traditional approach to whisky-making, particularly its focus on slow maturation. The distillery uses copper pot stills to distill its whisky and matures it in oak casks that are carefully chosen to impart unique flavors.
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
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
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 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
Eden Mill is a Scottish distillery and brewery located in St Andrews, Fife, known for producing premium gins, whiskies, and beers. Established in 2012, it was the first to make spirits in the region in over 150 years. The distillery emphasizes sustainability, utilizing renewable energy sources and collaborating with local companies to repurpose by-products.
Eden Mill's products, such as their coastal gins and distinctive single malt whisky, draw inspiration from the local landscape, incorporating botanicals sourced from around the distillery. In June 2023, they began constructing a new distillery and visitor center on the banks of the River Eden, aiming to become operational later in 2024.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
BEST Eden Mill Spirits
Best British Alcoholic Beverages
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
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 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
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Master
2024, 2022
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whisky Highball Gold
2024, 2023
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2023
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
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
Loch Lomond 12 Years Old Inchmoan whisky comes from the Loch Lomond distillery, known for its ability to blend traditional methods with innovative distillation techniques, creating exceptional whiskies that carry the authentic character of the Scottish Highlands region.
Inchmoan 12 Year Old is a whisky that embodies the essence of smoky, layered flavors, offering a rich and unforgettable tasting experience.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
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
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 British Alcoholic Beverages” list until March 24, 2025, 2,716 ratings were recorded, of which 2,397 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.