Best European Spirit/Liqueur 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
Extra old Cognac label is the one with a blend that has been aged the longest. Although the previous legislation stated that XO needs to be at least six years old, new categorization, which will be fully implemented by March 31, 2019, will indicate that to be labeled as an XO, the blend will have to be at least ten years old.
However, the age limitation only signifies that the youngest in the blend is six (ten) years old, but when it comes to XO most blends are significantly older than that. XO Cognac should always be served neat in a snifter glass, and are best enjoyed as a digestif.
THE BEST XO Cognac Brandies
Martell
Single Cru Grande Champagne XO
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Cognac XO N°20
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Single Cask N. 89
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold 2020
Tsikoudia is a Cretan spirit that is distilled from fermented grape pomace (strafylo)—the solid remains that are left after the grapes have been pressed. Tsikoudia is traditionally distilled in October and November, usually in small, family-owned copper stills.
The final product is a clear, potent, and colorless drink with an alcohol content that can vary from 40 to 65% ABV. Tsikoudia is similar to tsipouro, another pomace spirit that is produced in other parts of Greece. Unlike tsipouro, tsikoudia is typically distilled only once, which helps preserve flavors and aromas.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Viljamovka is a type of fruit brandy (rakija) that is distilled from Williams pear. This mellow and aromatic spirit is produced and enjoyed in several Balkan countries. It is often regarded as the finest type of fruit brandy produced in the region.
Viljamovka is made with fresh, ripe pears that are fermented before they are distilled. The result is a clear and colorless spirit that typically has an intensive pear aroma, mellow flavor, and a long, warming finish. Viljamovka is traditionally enjoyed as an aperitif.
Hailing from Gdańsk, this herbal liqueur is easily distinguished by the flakes of real gold. According to the written records, it first appeared in 1598, and it was an invention of a Dutch Ambrose Vermollen who created a recipe that was based on a secret combination of 20 different herbs and roots.
Considered as one of the oldest liqueurs in the world, Goldwasser comes at 40% ABV and displays both sweet and spicy cinnamon aromas, with underlying notes of licorice and mint. Though its history is closely intertwined with Poland, following the political turmoil and the Second World War Goldwasser is now produced in Germany, but it remains a symbol of the city of Gdańsk.
Slavonian plum brandy is the most popular drink in eastern Croatia. It is distilled from locally grown fresh and ripe plums such as Bistrica, which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. This clear drink can range from light yellow to amber in color, depending on whether it is aged in Slavonian oak.
It is characterized by harmonious aromas of plums and a long finish, while its alcohol content may range from 37.5 to 42.5%. Slavonian šljivovica is not merely a drink, it is deeply integrated into Slavonian tradition, and no special event or gathering is complete without a shot of well-chilled šljivovica.
Averna is a popular Italian bitter digestif that was named after its inventor Salvatore Averna who created it in 1868. Some sources state that the recipe was handed to the Avernas by a monk of the local San Spirito monastery. The exact ingredient list remains the Averna family secret, but this bittersweet liqueur is said to be made with more than 60 different herbs, roots, pomegranate, and the essential oils of bitter Sicilian lemons.
Though Averna is typically enjoyed on its own, served on the rocks or neat, it can also be used for various cocktails.
Chios Mastiha is a Greek liqueur that is made with Masticha Chiou—a resinous sap of the Schinias tree. Although Schinias is found in other Mediterranean countries, the plant only produces resin on Chios, presumably because of the island’s unique microclimate.
The liqueur is made by macerating Chios mastic or Chios mastic oil in grain spirit or distilling it with alcohol. The combination is then diluted with water and sweetened before it is bottled. Chios Mastiha must have a minimum of 15% ABV. The process results in a clear and subtly sweet spirit with fresh notes of pine, anise, herbs, and citrus fruit.
IT IS ILLEGAL TO PRODUCE AND SELL TRADITIONAL HOMEMADE BIMBER DUE TO HEALTH RISKS.
Bimber is a type of Polish homemade or illicitly distilled alcohol, much like moonshine in English-speaking countries. Bimber has deep roots in Polish rural culture, where it has been produced for centuries, particularly in times of economic hardship or during periods when alcohol was heavily taxed or regulated.
Historically, people in rural areas would distill their own alcohol to avoid the cost of commercial spirits. The process of making bimber was often passed down through generations, and it became a symbol of self-reliance and tradition in many communities.
Considered to be one of the first grape brandy varieties produced in France, Armagnac originated in Gascony, a historic area now divided between the regions of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Occitanie. The first written records on Armagnac date back to the 15th century, when it was mainly used as a stomach remedy.
Although the predominant grape is Ugni Blanc, ten different grapes are allowed in its production, and since the 19th century, Armagnac is almost always distilled once. The final blend is then aged in oak casks for a minimum of two years. Maturation provides Armagnac with the signature complex flavor, and while young varieties show vanilla and honey notes, matured versions are typically characterized by the flavor of roasted nuts, licorice, and tobacco.
THE BEST Armagnac Brandies
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Hors D’age
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Château du Tariquet
Pure Folle Blanche 15 YO Bas-Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Armagnac Gold Trophy 2020
Chateau de Laubade
Cask Strength 1994 Bas Armagnac
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy 2022
Armagnac Janneau
Armagnac Chevalier D'Espalet VS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Best European Spirit/Liqueur Producers
Aura Distillery, located in Buzet, Istria, Croatia, is a family-run business specializing in the production of spirits, liqueurs, jams, and gins made from wild herbs and fruits harvested in unspoiled nature. Their products are entirely natural, with no additives, artificial flavors, or colorings.
The distillery offers a diverse range of 25 types of brandies and liqueurs, four types of gin, and nine types of jams, alongside products like extra virgin olive oil and elderflower vinegar. Their flagship product, Teranino, is a liqueur made from Teran red wine and ten spices, renowned for winning numerous gold medals at prestigious global competitions.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024, 2023
European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2024
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
BEST Aura Destillery Spirits
Distilleria Sibona is one of the oldest distilleries in the Piedmont region, located in the heart of Roero. It is renowned for its artisanal production of grappa, utilizing fresh pomace from prestigious local wineries. Sibona holds a unique historical distillation license and prides itself on its deep connection to traditional methods while incorporating modern techniques to ensure high-quality products.
Their grappa is aged in various types of barrels, including those used for sherry, port, and whiskey, enhancing the flavor profile and creating distinctive spirits.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2022, 2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023, 2022, 2021
BEST Distilleria Sibona Spirits
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
Domaine Grand Comté, located in Roquelaure in the Gers department of southwestern France, is a family-owned estate managed by Michel Baylac and his daughter Aurélie, continuing a legacy dating back to 1860. The estate spans 15 hectares of vineyards planted on clay-limestone soils typical of the Haut-Armagnac terroir, and operates under sustainable farming practices that respect the environment.
Domaine Grand Comté produces a range of high-quality beverages, including IGP Côtes de Gascogne wines (red, rosé, and white), traditional Floc de Gascogne aperitifs, and aged Armagnac. The estate also offers sparkling wines crafted through traditional fermentation methods.
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
BEST Domaine Du Grand Comte Spirits
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
Plantation Rum is a distinguished rum brand known for producing high-quality spirits with a focus on traditional craftsmanship and distinctive flavors. It is part of the Maison Ferrand family, a renowned producer of fine spirits, including cognac.
Plantation Rum is sourced from various regions around the world, including the Caribbean and Central America, where it is distilled using time-honored methods and aged in a combination of tropical and European barrels to enhance its complexity and character.
Plantation Rum is celebrated for its range of expressions, from rich, spiced varieties to more delicate, fruity offerings. The rum is crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of the sugarcane and the aging process, with each bottle reflecting the terroir of its origin.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Rum & Cachaça Masters - Gold
2023, 2022
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023, 2022, 2019
BEST Plantation Rum 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
Fundador is a distinguished Spanish brandy producer, renowned for crafting the first Brandy de Jerez. Established in 1730, it stands as the oldest bodega in Jerez, Spain, with a rich history spanning nearly three centuries. The brand's legacy began in 1874 when it introduced Fundador, the inaugural Spanish brandy, marking a significant milestone in the spirits industry.
Over the years, Fundador has maintained its commitment to quality and tradition, producing brandies aged in Sherry Casks that previously held some of the finest sherry wines. Today, Fundador continues to be a leader in the production and exportation of Brandy de Jerez, offering a diverse range of products that honor its storied heritage while embracing innovation.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2022, 2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2023, 2020, 2019
BEST Fundador Spirits
Best European Spirits and Liqueurs
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
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
Depaz Reserve Speciale VSOP is a premium aged rum crafted in Martinique, made from fresh sugarcane juice grown on the fertile volcanic soil of Mount Pelée. This VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) rum is aged for at least four years in small oak barrels, which impart rich and complex flavors of vanilla, dried fruits, and spices.
It has a smooth, well-rounded taste with a subtle smokiness and a long, warm finish, making it an excellent choice for sipping or using in refined cocktails.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Rum Gold Trophy
2021
London Spirits Competition - Gold
2024
The Grappa Riserva in Botti da Madeira by Distilleria Sibona is a premium spirit aged in Madeira wine barrels, which imparts unique and refined flavors. This grappa has undergone a double aging process, first in traditional oak barrels and then in Madeira barrels, adding rich notes of dried fruit, spices, and a delicate sweetness.
The result is a well-balanced, smooth grappa with a lingering and complex finish, ideal for connoisseurs who appreciate nuanced and sophisticated spirits.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023, 2022, 2021
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Brandy Gold Trophy
2022
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
The Scotch Whisky Masters - Master
2024, 2022
Løiten Linie Aquavit is a renowned Norwegian spirit with a rich heritage, known for its distinctive flavor and traditional production process. Like other Linie Aquavits, Løiten Linie undergoes a unique maturation process where the spirit is aged in oak barrels that are shipped across the equator twice.
This journey, which allows the barrels to experience temperature changes and motion, imparts a depth of flavor and complexity to the spirit. The aquavit is flavored with a blend of spices, including caraway, fennel, and dill, giving it a balanced, smooth taste.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2022, 2021, 2020
Hors d'Âge by Domaine du Grand Comté is an exceptional aged Armagnac that showcases the pinnacle of craftsmanship and tradition. This premium spirit is aged for decades in oak barrels, allowing it to develop deep, complex flavors of dried fruits, toasted nuts, vanilla, and spices, with a smooth and luxurious finish.
Known for its refined character and rarity, Hors d'Âge is an ideal choice for connoisseurs and collectors seeking a truly timeless experience.
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
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
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2023, 2022, 2021
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2021
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
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 European Spirits and Liqueurs” list until April 17, 2025, 8,369 ratings were recorded, of which 6,516 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.