10 Best Good Whiskey

Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a highly regarded option in the world of single malts. With an impressive age of 16 years, this whiskey benefits from extensive maturation, resulting in a complex flavor profile. The 43% ABV ensures a strong yet smooth drinking experience. This whiskey is known for its intense smoky, peaty character, complemented by sweet and salty notes, making it ideal for those who appreciate robust flavors.

Originating from the Islay region, it carries the typical characteristics of Islay whiskies, which are known for their smoky and peaty profiles. Lagavulin has earned numerous awards, including Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, attesting to its quality and popularity among connoisseurs. It is also highly rated by customers, with a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from over 13,000 reviews, suggesting consistent satisfaction.

Packaged in a gift box, it makes for a fantastic gift, especially for fans of peaty whiskies. However, the intense flavor profile might not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who prefer milder whiskies. Delivery limitations outside mainland UK may also be a point to consider for potential buyers. Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay is a superb choice for enthusiasts of rich, smoky, and complex single malt Scotch whiskies, especially those interested in Islay varieties.

Jameson Original Triple Distilled Blended Irish Whiskey is a smooth and well-loved choice for those looking for a classic Irish whiskey. It’s a blended whiskey that combines traditional Irish pot still and fine grain whiskeys, matured for at least four years, which gives it a nice balance of rich flavors. With 40% alcohol by volume, it’s typical strength that suits most whiskey drinkers. The triple distillation process, done in copper stills in Ireland, results in a smooth taste with spicy wood, vanilla, nutty notes, and a touch of sweet sherry.

This flavor profile makes it versatile—great for enjoying neat, but also as a base for popular cocktails like Whiskey Sour or an Old Fashioned, or mixed with ginger ale and lime for something lighter. Its 1-liter bottle size is practical for regular use or sharing. Jameson Original is especially popular for its consistent quality and has won several awards, confirming its respected place in the whiskey world.

While it doesn’t have an old age statement, the four-year maturation is enough to offer a mellow, approachable whiskey ideal for both beginners and fans of Irish whiskey. If you want a smooth, flavorful whiskey from Ireland with a good reputation and flexibility in how you drink it, Jameson Original is a solid pick.

Jack Daniel's Gentleman Tennessee Whiskey is a smooth, well-crafted Tennessee whiskey known for its unique double mellowing process, which gives it a soft and refined character. This additional charcoal filtering sets it apart from the classic Old No 7, making it particularly smooth and pleasant to sip. With 40% alcohol by volume, it sits comfortably in the standard range for whiskey strength, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers.

The flavor profile highlights gentle notes of vanilla, maple syrup, and a touch of citrus, balanced with a warm finish—ideal if you enjoy slightly sweet and approachable whiskey flavors. It's a versatile choice for celebrating special moments or enjoying casually with friends. The whiskey is not aged for a specific number of years (non-vintage), so if you prefer older, heavily aged whiskeys with stronger oak or smokier profiles, this might feel lighter than expected.

Produced in the United States, specifically Tennessee, the product maintains the classic Tennessee whiskey style. This bottle is a good fit for those looking for a premium, smooth whiskey with a mild sweetness and easy drinkability, rather than a bold or heavily peated option. Its wide popularity and high customer rating suggest it’s a reliable go-to for many whiskey enthusiasts.