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.
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
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.
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.
Best British Alcoholic Beverage Producers
Gusbourne is a prestigious English winery renowned for producing some of the finest sparkling and still wines in the United Kingdom. Established in 2004 in the picturesque countryside of Kent and West Sussex, Gusbourne has quickly gained an international reputation for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and terroir-driven winemaking.
The winery follows a meticulous estate-only philosophy, meaning that all its wines are exclusively made from grapes grown in its own vineyards. The unique climate and chalky soils of the region provide ideal conditions for growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, the classic grape varieties used in traditional method sparkling wines.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2024, 2023, 2022, 2020
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2023
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021, 2017, 2016
BEST Gusbourne Wines
Nyetimber is a renowned producer of sparkling wines, celebrated for its dedication to perfection and innovation. With a focus on the traditional grape varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, Nyetimber meticulously crafts wines that exude exceptional elegance and quality.
Each bottle reflects a profound commitment to precision, from grape selection to the winemaking process, ensuring a luxurious and refined experience. This producer is widely acclaimed for its expertise in sparkling wine production, utilizing time-honored methods and advanced techniques to deliver an extraordinary result.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2021
BEST Nyetimber Wines
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
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
BEST Ardbeg Spirits
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
Deanston Distillery, nestled on the banks of the River Teith in the Scottish Highlands, is known for producing handcrafted single malt Scotch whisky. Established in a former cotton mill in 1965, Deanston focuses on traditional production methods, including using only Scottish ingredients and natural maturation processes.
Their whiskies are crafted without added coloring or chill filtration, enhancing the authentic flavors.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Best British Alcoholic Beverages
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
Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs is an elegant and refined English sparkling wine, crafted exclusively from the finest Chardonnay grapes grown in Gusbourne’s estate vineyards in Kent and West Sussex. Made using the traditional method, this wine undergoes extended aging on the lees, resulting in exceptional depth, complexity, and finesse.
In the glass, Blanc de Blancs displays a pale gold color with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose is beautifully expressive, offering aromas of citrus, green apple, toasted brioche, and almond, complemented by subtle floral notes. On the palate, it is crisp and vibrant, with a distinctive minerality, well-balanced acidity, and a long, elegant finish.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2023, 2020
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2023
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Master
2024, 2022
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, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
Deanston 12-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a signature Highland expression, known for its smooth and honeyed profile. Aged in ex-bourbon casks, it presents flavors of creamy vanilla, fresh honey, and a hint of citrus, balanced by soft malt and subtle oak undertones.
This whisky is unchill-filtered and bottled at 46.3% ABV, preserving its rich, natural character. The Deanston 12-Year-Old is a versatile and approachable whisky, appealing to both newcomers and connoisseurs, with a warming, smooth finish that reflects Deanston’s commitment to quality and traditional craftsmanship.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Sherry Cask 'The Bodega' is a stunning new addition to our core range of whiskies and is the perfect choice for someone who enjoys their Single Malt with plenty of body and complexity. Matured in some of the finest casks available to the whisky industry, this cask strength Sherry matured Single Malt is both luxurious and elegant with layers of rich sweet spice and oak.
Our Master Distiller has worked with producers in some of the most prestigious Sherry Bodegas in Jerez, Spain to select only the best quality casks to be filled with our precious spirit.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Master
2023
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
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 April 24, 2025, 2,741 ratings were recorded, of which 2,422 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.