World Whisky Tour: 9 Global Gems

Published: 05 November 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

As the chill of November settles in, there’s nothing quite like pouring a dram of fine whisky to warm the soul. You know that moment when the amber liquid catches the light, and the first sip reveals layers of flavor that transport you far away? Whisky, with its roots deep in Scottish hills, now dances across the globe, from misty Japanese mountains to sun-baked Indian plains.

It’s more than a drink; it’s a story in every bottle, a nod to tradition and innovation. In this guide, I take you on a world tour of nine standout whiskies, one from each corner of the map. Each one brings something special – a smoky whisper, a fruity burst, or a creamy smoothness that lingers. I tasted them neat with a drop of water to unlock their secrets, judging on depth, balance, value for money, and how they play with a wedge of cheddar or dark chocolate. So, grab your favorite glass, and let’s sip our way around the world.

Kicking off in Scotland, the heartland, we have The Glenlivet 12 Year Old Single Malt. This Speyside beauty shines with apple orchard freshness and a touch of oak. Pour it, and pear drops greet your nose, followed by a palate of honeyed malt and vanilla cream. It finishes light and clean, perfect for newcomers or pairing with smoked salmon. At around £30, it punches way above its weight – smooth as silk, complex enough to keep you coming back. Generations toast with Glenlivet; it embodies that classic Scotch elegance without fuss.

Cross the Irish Sea to Northern Ireland for Bushmills 10 Year Old Single Malt. Ireland’s triple distillation gives it that silky texture whisky lovers rave about. Green apple and floral notes dance on the tongue, with a hint of spice from the bourbon cask aging. It’s elegant and approachable, like a chat with an old friend over roast beef. For £35, you get purity and poise that rivals pricier options. Bushmills whispers of ancient Celtic traditions, yet feels utterly modern in your hand.

England joins the party with The English Whisky Company’s Cotswolds 5 Year Old. This gem from the rolling hills surprises with its rich, fruity profile. Think baked apple pie and toffee on the nose, then a burst of citrus and nutty depth in the mouth. The finish warms with gentle spice. Pair it with blue cheese for heaven. Around £45, it shows England’s craft scene thrives with bold flavors. From barley fields to bottle, it captures the Cotswolds’ pastoral charm in every drop.

Wales brings peaty punch with Penderyn Madeira Finish Single Malt. Distilled in the Brecon Beacons, it wears its island heritage proudly. Sherry sweetness mingles with coastal brine, delivering waves of dark fruit and chocolate. Smooth and medium-bodied, it loves a fireside evening with dark meat. £40 gets you a taste of Welsh wildness that’s both familiar and fresh. Penderyn honors the dragon on its label with fiery spirit and graceful poise.

Now, hop the Atlantic to the US for Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Bourbon counts as whiskey here, and this wheated wonder stands out. Caramel and vanilla lead the charge, backed by cinnamon heat and orchard fruit. It’s versatile – sip it straight or mix in an Old Fashioned – and pairs brilliantly with barbecue ribs. At £25, it’s a steal for everyday luxury. The red wax seal promises handmade care, straight from Kentucky’s bluegrass heart.

Japan’s precision shines in Yamazaki 12 Year Old Single Malt. From Suntory’s flagship distillery, it whispers of Mizunara oak magic. Peach, coconut, and a floral hint unfold gently, with clove spice building to a long, elegant finish. Delicate yet profound, it elevates sushi nights or quiet reflection. £150 might sting, but quality like this endures. Yamazaki evokes cherry blossoms in whisky form – refined, balanced, timeless.

India heats things up with Paul John Brilliance Single Malt. From Goa, this unpeated tropical stunner bursts with pineapple, mango, and vanilla pod. Light and vibrant, it refreshes like a summer breeze, with a subtle oak hug. Try it with spicy curry to tame the flames. £50 delivers exotic flair that redefines what whisky can be. Paul John blends Indian ingenuity with global craft, turning heat into harmony.

Australia’s down under delights await in Sullivan’s Cove French Oak Cask Double Wood. Tasmania’s cool climate yields this sherry-seasoned marvel. Raisin, fig, and mocha swirl in harmony, creamy and full-bodied with a spicy kick. It sings with lamb roasts. £120 rewards patience with layers that evolve sip by sip. Sullivan’s Cove captures Australia’s rugged beauty – bold, layered, unforgettable.

Finally, Iceland’s icy edge in Flóki Single Malt. From the land of fire and ice, it smokes with heather and sea salt, tempered by vanilla sweetness. Peat meets purity in a balanced, intriguing pour that finishes crisp. Pair with smoked fish for Nordic bliss. £80 captures a unique terroir that’s bold and beautiful. Flóki honors Viking explorers with a spirit as adventurous as the aurora.

Each of these nine whiskies tells a tale of place and passion. Scotland’s classics ground us, while newcomers like India and Iceland thrill with twists. Prices vary, but value shines through – from budget-friendly bourbons to investment-worthy malts. I added a splash of water to each, nosed deeply, sipped slowly, and savored pairings: sharp cheeses cut richness, chocolates amplify sweetness, meats ground the smoke. Depth means layers that unfold; complexity blends notes seamlessly; smoothness glides without burn. No harsh alcohols here – just harmony. Beginners start light, experts chase the peat; everyone finds joy.

Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or just curious, these bottles invite exploration. Stock your shelf, share with mates, or gift to a loved one. Whisky bridges borders, warms winters, and sparks stories. Next dram? Yours to choose. Slàinte!