Which Whisky Is Good?

Ask any whisky enthusiast, and you’ll likely get a different answer each time. A "good" whisky doesn’t have to be expensive or rare. It’s one that delivers harmony, depth, and satisfaction, whether you're sipping it neat or mixing it into a cocktail. Smooth Irish blends like Jameson, sweet bourbons like Buffalo Trace, or easy-drinking Scotches such as Monkey Shoulder are often recommended as good starting points. They’re approachable, well-crafted, and widely available.

But for others, "good" might mean bold and smoky, like Laphroaig 10, or sweet and complex like a sherry-aged GlenDronach. It’s personal, and that’s the beauty of it.

Which Whisky Is Best?

This is the question that sparks endless debate. Is it the most expensive? The rarest? The most awarded?

The truth is, there’s no definitive answer. The best whisky depends on your taste, context, and preferences. That said, a few names consistently rise to the top in global rankings and enthusiast circles:

• The Macallan 18 – Luxury in a glass

• Yamazaki 18 – A refined Japanese masterpiece

• Redbreast 12 – A standout Irish Single Pot Still

• Pappy Van Winkle – The unicorn of American bourbon

But the best whisky for you might be the one that takes you by surprise, the one you share on a special night, or the one that simply makes you smile after a long day.

What Is Australia’s #1 Selling Whisky?

This is one of the most frequently searched whisky questions in Australia, and the answer might surprise you.

As of recent retail sales data, Johnnie Walker Red Label consistently ranks as Australia’s #1 selling whisky. Its popularity is driven by brand recognition, affordability, and versatility, making it a staple in both home bars and hospitality venues.

Among Australian-made whiskies, Starward, particularly the Starward Nova, has earned critical acclaim and is gaining traction both locally and internationally. The rise of local distilleries means Australia’s whisky scene is no longer just importing; it's now proudly exporting quality whisky with a uniquely Australian flavour.

A World of Whisky: Regional Styles That Define the Spirit

Whisky changes with its environment, and regional identity is part of its magic:

• Scotland: The spiritual home of whisky, from Speyside’s elegant malts to Islay’s peated powerhouses.

• India: Triple-distilled and smooth, known for blends and distinctive Single Pot Still whiskies.

• United States: Bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey lead a bold, sweet, and spicy charge.

• Japan: Inspired by Scotland, refined by precision, elegant, balanced, and award-winning.

• Canada: Blended, light, and easy to sip, Canadian whiskies are subtle and versatile.

• Australia: A rising force, with distilleries in Tasmania, Victoria, and beyond producing unique, terroir-driven drams.

Whisky Isn’t Just Tasted, It’s Experienced

The flavour of whisky is shaped not only by ingredients and barrels, but by story and setting. A dram by a winter fire tastes different from one sipped by the sea. The same whisky shared among friends transforms with conversation and context.

Food pairing, tasting rituals, and even collection trends are part of the broader culture. And yes, while collectors chase investment-grade bottles, the true heart of whisky lies in drinking it, appreciating the moment, not just the label.

Which Whisky Is Right for You?

Whether you’re searching “what is the best whisky to buy?” or “which whisky is smoothest for beginners?”, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best whisky is the one that resonates with your palate and your story.

So explore. Taste broadly. Discover a smoky Scotch, a sweet bourbon, a floral Japanese pour, or a spicy rye, and let each bottle tell its tale.

In the end, the question isn’t “Which whisky is best?” but rather “Which whisky is best for you, right now?”

And that’s the kind of question worth pouring a glass to ponder.