After taking a shot earlier in year when The World Whiskies Awards named a Tasmanian single malt the world’s best, Scotland is reeling again with the release of Jim Murray’s latest version of The Whisky Bible. For the first time in the publications 12-year history, a Scottish malt did not take top honors. Here’s the whisky that did, along with other award winners and honorable mentions:
2015 World Whisky of the Year
The Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013
Only 18,000 bottles were made of this bold single malt from Japan’s oldest distillery, Suntory. The fruity whisky won’t be easy to find, but will be worth the $160 if you come across it. The Scottish killer.
2nd Place
William Larue Weller 2013
Part of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, it’s the second time a William Larue Weller Bourbon took the second spot on Murray’s list.
3rd Place
Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old
The second American-made bottle in the top 10 and the second from Buffalo Trace, Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old is a pricey treat for rye lovers. It’s packed with notes of tobacco, vanilla, and cinnamon, and boasts a finish that will stay with you long after you’ve enjoyed a glass.
Irish Whiskey of the Year
Redbreast 21-Year-Old
Redbreast is picking up steam stateside for good reason, and the bottle you should really want to try is the 21-year-old. It’s the oldest Redbreast expression, and it packs notes of dried fruit and a full mouthfeel.
European Whiskey of the Year
English Whisky Co. Chapter 14 Unpeated
English Whisky Co. Chapter 14 Unpeated – Yikes, so not only did Scotland not take home the ‘Whisky of the Year’ award, they didn’t even snag the ‘European Whisky of the Year’. That honor goes to The English Whisky Co. for their gentle Chapter 14 Unpeated single malt.
