Give the gift of whisky, whether it's a scotch, bourbon or Irish whiskey – we have identified the best bottles available
Whisky is a thoughtful gift because there's so much choice, which means you can tailor a bottle to the individual or introduce a whisky fan to something new. But if you don't know your bourbon from your scotch, your Islay from your Speyside, choosing the right brand can be quite a daunting task. We have rounded up the best whiskies on the market. There's something for everyone, whether they’re an ardent scotch drinker, a cocktail king or a budding enthusiast, we've got you covered. We've also done our best to avoid the jargon, because this can make whisky quite intimidating to some. Key to remember is that you have Scotch whisky and Irish whiskey – outside of these two nations, bottlers can decide themselves whether they're keeping or dropping the 'e'. Learn more in our article on 'Whiskey or whisky, what's the difference?'. Best whiskies to buy as gifts at a glance Best Welsh whisky: Penderyn Portwood, £45.96 Best Danish whisky: Stauning HØST, £44.50 Best Taiwanese whisky: Kavalan Sherry Oak, £102.60 Best Indian whisky: Amrut Fusion, £53.75 Best for the whisky buff: Nikka Yoichi single malt, £76.75 Best for sherry sweetness: Balvenie DoubleWood 12, £46.96 Best for fans of smoky whisky: Lagavulin 16-year-old, £73.19 Best for fans of classic flavours: The Macallan 12-year-old, £124.99 Best for English whisky lovers: Bourbon Cask Cotswolds Distillery, £76 Best for trying something new: Daddy Rack Tennessee whiskey, £39.95 Best for Irish whiskey enthusiasts: Green Spot single pot still, £44.13 Best for smooth, fruity whiskey fans: Teeling single malt, £51.95 Best for American whiskey explorers: Maker's Mark 46 bourbon whiskey, £38.50 Best for environmentally conscious whisky fans: Old Pulteney 15-year-old, £74.99 Best whiskey for cocktails: Sexton single malt Irish whiskey, £25.05 Best for the casual whiskey drinker: Jack Daniel's single barrel select, £40.37 Best whiskies to buy as gifts in 2026 Penderyn Portwood – 46% ABV Available from Amazon (£45.96), Master of Malt (£59.75), The Whisky Exchange (£59.75) Best Welsh whisky The idea for Penderyn – the first Welsh whisky distillery in over a century – was born, as many great ideas are, during a late night in a pub. Established at the foot of the Brecon Beacons by a group of likely lads and steered for a time by legendary master distiller Dr Jim Swan, Penderyn consistently produces award-winning whisky. The Portwood is matured in ruby port barrels and is a deep stew of berries and summer fruits – these first appear on the nose with a dusting of cocoa before the fruits take centre stage on the palate, with baking spices supporting. Available from: Amazon (£45.96) Master of Malt (£59.75) The Whisky Exchange (£59.75) Stauning HØST – 40.5% ABV Available from Master of Malt (£44.50), The Whisky Exchange (£44.50) Best Danish whisky Scandinavian spirits are a delight to explore. Bursting with character, you'll often find that most spirits from northern Europe share an ingredient: rye. It's plentiful in Denmark, so it makes sense that this storming Stauning spirit is named HØST, translating to ‘harvest’ in English, as a celebration of the rye and barley cultivation that surrounds the distillery. The nose is invitingly sweet and creamy, marrying vanilla and beeswax with lemon zest. The flora and fauna of the fields that inspired the bottle burst through the palate: orchard fruits and berries are at the fore, preceding a cinnamon spice finish. Available from: Master of Malt (£44.50) The Whisky Exchange (£44.50) Kavalan Sherry Oak – 46% ABV Available from Master of Malt (£99.50), Amazon (£102.60) Best Taiwanese whisky Since its establishment in 2005, Kavalan has earned a reputation for excellence, with its Solist releases in particular enjoying widespread acclaim. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Yilan County, the distillery benefits from the pure spring water from Snow Mountain, as well as the Central Mountains. The subtropical climate also accelerates the maturation process, adding tremendous depth of character in a short space of time. Kavalan Sherry Oak is matured in handpicked Spanish sherry casks, and this is evident on the nose, with dried fruits and baking spices flooding in. The spices follow through to the palate, and are joined by plum and blackberry. Available from: Master of Malt (£99.50) Amazon (£102.60) Amrut Fusion – 50% ABV Available from Master of Malt (£53.75) Best Indian whisky Based in Bangalore and founded in 1948 by Shri J.N. Radhakrishna, Amrut is another distillery that is pioneering whisky in its country. Amrut Fusion is a blend of 75 per cent Indian barley and 25 per cent peated Scottish barley, which results in a spirit that is both sweet and slick, spicy and smoky – it's a difficult line to walk, but it's one this bottle does magnificently. Barley is at the fore on the nose, with spices and juicy fruits ahead of a whisper of peat. The peat muscles into the crowd on the palate, along with dark chocolate and fruity notes. Available from: Master of Malt (£53.75) Nikka Yoichi single malt – 45% ABV Available from Amazon (£69.28), Master of Malt (£76.75), The Whisky Exchange (£77.25) Best for the whisky buff Nikka are one half of an indomitable pair of distilleries in Japan that have been at the peak of the Far East whisky market for decades. The Yoichi single malt is Nikka's greatest success; the bottle leans into Nikka's Scottish inspiration without being contrived, while bursting with their uniquely Japanese flavour profile. On the nose it's delicately balanced, matching peat and tropical fruit, and a complex palate follows the same formula with added nuts. Ideal for a young whisky buff. Read our full review of Nikka Yoichi single malt. Available from: Amazon (£69.28) Master of Malt (£76.75) The Whisky Exchange (£77.25) Balvenie DoubleWood – 40% ABV Available from The Whisky Exchange (£46.50) Best for sherry sweetness Take a trip to Speyside with this opulent, flavourful addition from Balvenie. Expect rich milk chocolate on the palate, with fresh raspberry, warming cinnamon and a hint of spicy black pepper to finish. Every true whisky connoisseur could do with a bottle of this special single malt on their shelves. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£46.50) Latest Deals Lagavulin 16-year-old – 43% ABV Available from Amazon (£72.99) Best for fans of smoky whisky Lagavulin's 16-year-old expression is a titan of the industry. One of the world's most popular single malts, this whisky is a go-to at local pubs and enjoyed by the rich and famous. Definitive of the Islay region, imposing smoky notes are tempered by a rich sweetness. For the whisky geek in your life. Read our full review of Lagavulin 16-year-old. Available from: Amazon (£72.99) The Macallan 12-year-old Triple Cask – 40% ABV Available from Amazon (£124.99) Best for fans of classic flavours A sumptuous blend of creamy vanilla and dark berries with just the right amount of kick provided by pepper and spices. This 12-year-old dram is testament to the stature The Macallan holds in the whisky world – it is delicate, sophisticated and oozes class. Perfect for the swanky whisky drinker in your world. Read our full review of The Macallan 12-year-old Triple Cask. Available from: Amazon (£124.99) undefined Cotswolds Distillery bourbon cask single malt whisky – 59% ABV Available from Cotswold Distillery (£76) Best for English whisky lovers This rich, smooth single malt matured in bourbon casks has plenty of characteristic vanilla flavours, sweet honey notes and candied fruit. It’s a punchy cask-strength expression made for slow sipping. Although the Cotswolds Distillery is relatively new to scene, having been established in 2014, it’s producing some exciting drams. The ideal gift for any whisky lover looking to expand their English whisky collection. Available from: Cotswold Distillery (£76) undefined Green Spot single pot still – 40% ABV Available from Amazon (£44.13) Best for Irish whiskey enthusiasts Once upon a time this whiskey was exclusively sold in Mitchell's grocers in Dublin. The bottle is now much adored throughout the world and in 2018 was awarded 'liquid gold' status by Jim Murray in his respected whisky bible. This whiskey is a supremely sippable, stubbornly Irish celebration of caramel and fruit. Give this one to any newbies or theatre geeks, any stage enthusiasts are sure to be bowled over by the company this whiskey keeps. Read our full review of Green Spot single pot still. Available from: Amazon (£44.13) undefined Teeling single malt – 46% ABV Available from The Whisky Exchange (£49.25) Best for smooth, fruity whiskey fans A modern Irish whiskey that oozes the smoothness and warmth associated with the Emerald Isle's heritage drams. This Dublin-made tipple caresses the tongue with summer fruits, warm spices and pepper. A drinking experience that will keep your friends around long after dinner has been served. Best presented to any Irish whiskey heads you know. Read our full review of Teeling single malt. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£49.25) Maker’s Mark 46 bourbon whiskey – 47% ABV Available from Master of Malt (£38.50) Best for American whiskey explorers Whiskey aficionado Jim Murray awarded this bourbon his 'liquid gold' award in 2014. This spiced bourbon was the first addition to the Maker’s Mark range since the 1950s. The whiskey pitches a bag of spices against the sweet funfair notes typically found in bourbon. Nutmeg takes over from toffee apple with the subtlety of an earthquake but it is a pleasant seismic shift. The ideal gift for lovers of American whiskey. Read our full review of Maker's Mark 46 bourbon whiskey. Available from: Master of Malt (£38.50) Latest Deals Old Pulteney 15-year-old – 46% Available from Amazon (£74.99) Best for environmentally conscious whisky fans A scotch that packs in spice and sea spray. Pulteney is an environmentally conscious distillery based in the Scottish coastal town of Wick. Its whiskies are unmistakably born at sea; they burst with salty sea air and the bracing freshness that comes as a result. Its 15-year-old expression is no exception; salinity is balanced with delicate vanilla and warming spices, matched by sweet toffee and light floral flavours. A whisky bursting with character and flavour. Buy this bottle for the whisky drinking eco-warrior in your circle. Available from: Amazon (£74.99) Sexton single malt Irish whiskey – 40% Available from Amazon (£25.05), The Whisky Exchange (£34.75) Best whiskey for cocktails Sexton have developed a liquid that is perfect for mixing – it's both super smooth and bursting with intense fruity, spicy flavours. The nose of the whisky is incredibly rich with almonds, cocoa and buttered baking spices. On the palate, honey provides a smooth base layer with accents of peppered pears, baking spice, citrus and prunes. Over ice it works well as an easy sipping whiskey, while the bold and demanding flavours of the palate make it a cocktail makers dream with so many different characteristics to draw out of the liquid. Available from: Amazon (£25.05) The Whisky Exchange (£34.75) Jack Daniel’s single barrel select – 45% Available from Amazon (£40.37), Master of Malt (£43.99) Best for the casual whiskey drinker The Jack Daniel's distillery, the very first in the United States, was officially established in 1866, two years after Jasper 'Jack' Newton Daniel learned the art of whiskey-making from a reverend and a slave. Attention to detail and an insistence on doing the hard work in-house has made Jack Daniel’s the distillery it is today. The nose of this single barrel select whiskey is typical of Tennessee whisky – it's full-bodied, sweet and promises plenty of indulgent golden syrup notes on the palate. Your tongue is flooded with corn and caramelised sugar, honey and baking spices. Rye provides a pepperiness that punctuates the thick layers of sweetness, preventing it from becoming sickly. The finish is enduring, with notes of pepper, citrus fruits and honey. Available from: Amazon (£40.37) Master of Malt (£43.99) More reviews Best Scotch whisky Best Irish whiskey Best bourbon Best craft whiskies Best whisky subscriptions and clubs Best whiskey glasses Best advent calendars If you have any questions or suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. For information on alcohol guidelines, read our guide to drinking responsibly.
The best limoncello to buy: expert taste test 2026
Discover our pick of the best limoncello to buy. These summery picks include traditional Italian bottles along with modern takes on this classic digestif.
Limoncello is a distinctly Italian liqueur although some fine examples are being produced in other countries, including the UK. It breathes la dolce vita, offering its drinkers refreshment, relaxation and an aid to digestion. The spirit is typically enjoyed straight from the freezer after a meal but is also the base of many a summertime cocktail, usually poured over crushed ice. Here, we’ve rounded up the best limoncellos available, ranging from revived family recipes from Amalfi to a Cornwall-based brand. Whether you like them sweet and juicy, or bitter, there’s something here for everyone. So, make some space in the freezer, grab yourself a short glass and a place in the sun. For over 400 buyer’s guides, visit our reviews section and find taste tests of gin, vodka, tequila, rum, whisky and much more. Best limoncello to buy at a glance Best budget limoncello: Luxardo limoncello, £18.75 Best limoncello for a spritz: Mamma Mia limoncello, £29.50 Best sherbet limoncello: Terra Di Limoni, limoncello di Amalfi, £21.25 Best Australian limoncello: Manly Spirits Co, Zesty Limoncello, £34.50 Best historic limoncello: Staibano limoncello, £21 Best creamy limoncello: Tosolini limoncello, £28.25 Best fresh limoncello: Dolce Cilento limoncello, £19.99 Best traditional limoncello: Pallini limoncello, £25.99 Best low ABV limoncello: Saint Ives Liquor Company limoncello, £20.42 Best for a digestif: Strega limoncello di Sorrento, £15.95 Jump to: What is limoncello? Where does limoncello come from? The best limoncello to buy 2026 The best limoncello to buy 2026 Luxardo limoncello Available from The Whisky Exchange (£18.75), Drink Supermarket (£20.49) Best budget limoncello ABV: 27% Try this signature bottle from one of the continent’s oldest liqueur makers. This timeless expression by Luxardo is still, for the most part, made to the same family recipe that was first sold in 1905. It is a definitive limoncello, bursting with freshness, and it makes the perfect cello gimlet. Read our full Luxardo limoncello review. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£18.75) Drink Supermarket (£20.49) Mamma Mia limoncello Available from The Whisky Exchange (£29.50) Best limoncello for a spritz Be transported to sunny days with this zesty limoncello. It’s less sweet than many traditional options, with a fresh citrus flavour from Italian lemons – ideal for sipping or mixing into a spritz. Available from The Whisky Exchange (£29.50) Terra Di Limoni, limoncello di Amalfi Available from The Whisky Exchange (£21.25) Best sherbet limoncello ABV: 25% Terra di Limoni has been producing limoncello since the 1980s but the firm’s parent company has been trading in Amalfi lemons for nearly a century, and the flavour of them sings in this bottle. It is a limoncello that is as juicy as it is balanced, presenting with a lemon sherbet profile and long finish that is satisfying and refreshing. Read our full Terra Di Limoni limoncello review. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£21.25) Manly Spirits Co Zesty Limoncello Latest Deals Best Australian limoncello Limoncello served from the surf. This Australian distillery has perfected the art of the cool and refreshing with its line of spirits. This limoncello is lovingly handcrafted to an Amalfi recipe using freshly foraged, hand-peeled lemons, infused with a grain spirit for a juicy and revitalizing tipple. Read our full Manly Spirits limoncello review. Latest Deals Staibano limoncello Available from The Great Wine Company (£21) Best historic limoncello ABV: 25% We all love a romantic story behind our booze and Staibano delivers on this in abundance. This liqueur brand was founded by the great-grandson of one of Amalfi’s foremost limoncello distillers, and you can tell why this recipe stood the test of time. It is made using the local lemons and delicately balances bitter, sweet and sherbet notes. Read our full Staibano limoncello review. Available from: The Great Wine Company (£21) Tosolini limoncello Available from The Whisky Exchange (£28.25) Best creamy limoncello ABV: 28% Creamy, zesty and incredibly moreish – this limoncello hits all the right notes and comes courtesy of one of Italy’s most influential distilleries, a company that has been getting it right and for a very long time. Read our full Tosolini limoncello review. Latest Deals Dolce Cilento limoncello Available from Amazon (£19.99) Best fresh limoncello ABV: 25% This multi-award-winning limoncello is about as fresh as they come. Amalfi lemons are infused within two hours of harvest to maximise flavour and combat sourness. The complex palate hints at nutmeg and vanilla alongside the usual juicy lemon flavours for a very clean and refreshing tipple. Read our full Dolce Cilento limoncello review. Available from: Amazon (£19.99) Pallini limoncello Available from Drink Supermarket (£25.99), Master of Malt (£23.99) Best traditional limoncello ABV: 26% An historic limoncello that has stood the test of time for reasons that become evident in the drinking. A traditional recipe is made using modern techniques to produce a supremely balanced and moreish liqueur, and the result is creamy and juicy and full of nuance. Read our full Pallini limoncello review. Available from: Drink Supermarket (£25.99) Master of Malt (£23.99) Saint Ives Liquor Company limoncello Available from Master of Malt (£20.42) Best low ABV limoncello ABV: 22% This Cornish limoncello flips traditional Amalfi recipes on their head. It is a bitter, still and very refreshing version, unique as it is moreish. It’s impossible to have just one glass. Read our full Saint Ives Liquor Company limoncello review. Available from: Master of Malt (£20.42) Strega limoncello di Sorrento Available from Master of Malt (£15.95) Best for a digestif ABV: 30% Strega aren’t known primarily for their limoncello but they could be. This well balanced, juicy and waxy affair is smooth, refreshing and perfect for washing down a big meal. Read our full Strega limoncello di Sorrento review. Available from: Master of Malt (£15.95) What is limoncello? Limoncello is a sweet and tangy lemon liqueur made by infusing lemon zest in alcohol, typically vodka, and then sweetening the mixture with sugar. The result is a vibrant, zesty drink with a strong citrus flavour and yellow colour. Limoncello is known for its refreshing and slightly sweet taste, making it popular as both an aperitif and a digestif. It can be enjoyed on its own, served chilled, or used as an ingredient in a variety of desserts and cocktails. You can even make limoncello at home: try our limoncello recipe using the best quality lemons you can find. Where does limoncello come from? Just where and when limoncello was born is up for debate. There are competing claims from many corners of the Italian peninsula and its surrounding islands. The people of Capri maintain the liqueur was first distilled on their island in the early 1900s. Anyone from Sorrento will tell you they were the first, in 1890, while over in Amalfi you’ll hear other stories about its provenance. What we do know for sure is that, wherever the spirit came from, it is to this day inextricably linked to all these three regions of Italy. However, Amalfi is the current torchbearer, on account of its superior lemons. Sfusato lemons, also known as Sfusato Amalfitano, were brought to the Amalfi coast from the Middle East some centuries ago and they are perfect for making limoncello. The most notable feature of the Sfusato is that it grows to twice the size of your average lemon, ideal for when you’re bottling thousands of litres of lemon liqueur. It is also known for its thick, aromatic and oily skin and its sensationally low acidity – so low, they are often eaten in salads. How to serve limoncello Limoncello spritz cocktail Limoncello & raspberry semifreddo Aperol & limoncello cocktail Limoncello plum tart More limoncello recipe inspiration Related reviews The best cocktail shakers All our gin taste tests The best vodka on test The best bottles of rum to buy Are you a fan of limoncello? Share your product suggestions with us below... This review was last updated in January 2026. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
16 best canned cocktails, tried and tested 2025
Ever tried a cocktail in a can? How about gin in a tin? Ideal for picnics, a tinned tipple can be both convenient and delicious. Read our review to discover the best on the market
Summer is here, and that means, canned cocktail season makes it annual return too. Light and easy to carry, open and drink from, not to mention easy to recycle, cans are the ideal vessel for alcohol on the go. Whether you’re heading to a picnic or going camping, you’re no longer restricted to just beer and cider – the world of convenient booze has exploded and you can now get just about any of your favourite cocktails in a can. Canned cocktails range in style from affordable supermarket ranges of the classics (such as mojitos and a gin and tonic), to innovative new mixes and gourmet creations using top quality ingredients. Pick up a single can in the supermarket or get a multi-pack delivery of something special to feed a crowd at your next barbecue or summer party. They save you the hassle of mixing up individual drinks for everybody and can be popped in the fridge at a moment's notice. The idea of having your favourite cocktail pre-mixed and ready to drink might sound great, but how do these drinks measure up to cocktails made in a bar or at home? We blind-tasted more than 25 canned cocktails, from mojitos to martinis and everything in between. Below are our top picks of the best canned cocktails - judged on having a balanced taste, clear flavours and a finished cocktail we'd want to go back to. For more drinks inspiration, visit our reviews section and find over 400 practical buyer's guides, plus taste tests of the best gin, vodka and more. Best canned cocktails at a glance Best canned margarita: Pimentae grapefruit margarita, £32/8 x 125ml Best canned passion fruit martini: MOTH - passion fruit martini, Moth, £26/8 x 125ml Best canned cocktail collection: GATHER flavour collection, £19.99/5 x 125ml Best canned sangria: Daughters of the Vine red sangria, £2.75 Best negroni: Tanqueray Negroni, £4.05/100ml Best cosmopolitan: Ciroc Cosmopolitan, £4.05/100ml Best for a refreshing sip: Minus 196 - Lemon, £2.25/330ml Best paloma: MOTH - Paloma, £4/200ml Best classic gin and tonic: Sipsmith gin and tonic, £3/250ml Best canned sex on the beach: Tapp'd On the Beach, £26.50/12-pack Best gin and lemonade: Edinburgh Gin strawberry and pink peppercorn, £2.40/250ml Best tropical cocktail: LuvJus pineapple and mint, £29.95/12-pack Best twist on a vodka soda: East London Liquor Co. vodka and rhubarb, £2.70/250ml Best gourmet canned cocktail: Goldling sundown, £17/6-pack Best bloody mary: Bloody Drinks Bloody Mary, £3.50/250ml Best piña colada: Malibu piña colada, £2.25/250ml Best canned cocktails to buy 2025 Pimentae grapefruit margarita Available from Pimentae (£32/8 x 125ml) Best canned margarita Our newest favourite dinky canned cocktail for BBQs and park gatherings, and the prettiest addition to your picnic basket. A fresh and fragrant blend of sharp pink grapefruit, premium tequila and a touch of sweetness from agave for balance. Paloma fans will enjoy this – cucumber, spicy and Tommy's margarita cans are available too. Available from: Pimentae (£32/8 x 125ml) Moth passion fruit martini Available from Moth (£26/8 x 125ml), Waitrose (£4/125ml) Best canned passion fruit martini The latest release for summer 2025 from canned cocktail stalwarts Moth, this is a classic blend of smooth vodka, passion fruit liqueur and vanilla. One for the sweet tooth, it’s the perfect tropical cocktail when a sunny day comes round. Available from Moth (£26/8 x 125ml) Waitrose (£4/125ml) GATHER flavour collection Available from Amazon (£19.99/5 x 150ml) Struggling to choose a favourite cocktail? This gourmet-inspired collection is a hit with us and perfect for party hosting when everyone likes a different drink. Classic cocktails get indulgent twists with something for everyone - our favourites are the fruity Raspberry Ripple Daiquiri and Spicy Mango Margarita. Available from: Amazon (£19.99/5 x 150ml) Daughters of the Vine red sangria Available from Sainsbury's (£2.75) Best sangria Channel holiday vibes during your next picnic with this canned sangria, which sees red wine infused with blood orange and ginger for a fruity alternative to familiar canned cocktails. The ginger adds a kick and it is surprisingly strong (7% ABV) so don't be fooled into thinking this will be weak, it's a sipper. We like it with a chunky ice cube in too. Available from: Sainsbury's (£2.75) Tanqueray negroni Available from Tesco (£4.05) Best negroni Ingredients: gin, vermouth, Campari The Tanqueray negroni is part of the ‘cocktail collection’ from the Diageo stable, available in both cans and bottles. The collection promises bar-quality cocktails at home, and it's certainly succeeding. The negroni enjoyed a moment after the sbagliato variation went viral, and the classic concoction is a balance of bitter, sweet and aromatic notes that come together in a rejuvenating pour. The bold juniper and rich herbaceous notes of Tanqueray go a long way here – a delicious trellis for the vermouth to build on. Available from: Tesco (£4.05) Ciroc cosmopolitan Available from Tesco (£4.05) Best cosmopolitan Ingredients: vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime The cosmopolitan is traditionally made using vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and freshly squeezed lime juice, and this Ciroc version hits all the points you’d want: it's sweet, refreshing and unbelievably drinkable. We recommend serving it cold with a twist of lime for an additional hint of citrus. Available from: Tesco (£4.05) Suntory Minus 196 – lemon Available from Tesco (£2.25) Best for a refreshing sip Ingredients: vodka, shochu, lemon Japan has a reputation for being on the frontier of food-tech, and Minus 196 is a vodka-based RTD ('ready to drink') that's a prime example of this. The brand flash-freezes fruits in liquid nitrogen at -196C before crushing and infusing them in vodka and shochu. Crisp with icy, refreshing lemon, this is one to serve ice-cold at a barbecue – just keep topping up the supply, as your guests will race through them. Available from: Continental Food Store (£2.89) MOTH - Paloma Available from Sainsbury's (£4) Best canned paloma Ingredients: Tequila, grapefruit, lime, soda MOTH is one of the noisiest kids on the block in the world of canned cocktails; a registered B Corp which essentially means the company is doing good by its employees and the planet, offering generous annual leave and committing to sustainable practices. A cocktail certainly rocketing in popularity: the Paloma is a super simple concoction consisting of grapefruit, soda, lime and tequila. MOTH have the Paloma nailed with its electric zing, the grapefruit is crisp and the tequila provides a welcome kick. Be sure to pour this one over a tall glass stacked with ice and garnished with a wedge of grapefruit. Available from: Sainsbury's (£4) Sipsmith gin & tonic (250ml), 6.5% ABV Available from Ocado (£3) Best classic canned gin and tonic Ingredients: Dry gin and tonic water Our favourite G&T overall, Sipsmith is a strong contender in the canned cocktail industry. The subtle sweetness is just right – a real achievement for a canned gin & tonic. The botanicals are present and distinguished, blended with a smooth, high-quality gin. Coming in at 6.5% ABV, it's the strongest G&T on our list but the booze isn't overpowering. You'll want to break out these gorgeous copper tins on your next picnic or barbecue. Available from: Ocado (£3) Tapp'd On The Beach (250ml), 6% ABV Available from Tapp'd (£26.50/12-pack) Best canned sex on the beach For a fruity and sweet cocktail, this canned version of a classic cocktail blends peach, raspberry and cranberry juices with a double shot of craft vodka. It's a canned cocktail with a punch, but the cranberry stops it from being too sweet. There are plenty more to choose from Tapp'd too, including strawberry daiquiri, piña colada and blue lagoon canned drinks. Available from: Tapp'd (£26.50/12-pack) Edinburgh Gin strawberry and pink peppercorn (250ml), 5% ABV Available from Tesco (£2.40/250ml) Best gin and lemonade Ingredients: strawberry and pink peppercorn gin, pink lemonade For those who like a slightly sweeter gin, this is perfect. A release from Edinburgh Gin, this combines its strawberry and pink peppercorn gin with pink lemonade for an easy drinking G&T that's ideal for summer. The slight warmth from the pink peppercorns cuts through the fruity sweetness for a well-balanced sip of sugar and spice. Available from: Tesco (£2.25/250ml) LuvJus Pineapple & mint (250ml), 4.8% ABV Available from Amazon (£29.95/12-pack) Best tropical cocktail Ingredients: Pineapple, mint, jasmine, Korean ginseng, vodka Capture the taste of summer with a fruity canned cocktail by LuvJus. This playful brand delivers vibrant drinks with a kick of Korean ginseng and clean, crisp vodka. The pineapple & mint drink is reminiscent of a lightened-up piña colada – full of tropical, sunny flavours. The full-bodied drink has lots of depth with hints of floral jasmine and cooling mint. It would make the perfect portable cocktail for an afternoon barbecue or warm beach day. Available from: Amazon (£29.95/12-pack) East London Liquor Co. Vodka & rhubarb (250ml), 4.6% ABV Available from Tesco (£2.70/250ml) Best twist on a vodka soda Ingredients: British wheat vodka, natural rhubarb soda Cool down this summer with this refreshing, fruity cocktail from East London Liquor Co. The rhubarb & vodka cocktail was one of our favourites that we tried. The vibrant rhubarb flavour is fresh and doesn't taste artificial. The booze is well balanced and the sweetness is just right. We also enjoyed the rum & ginger cocktail. We love that the flavours are all natural with no preservatives or artificial sweeteners. Available from: East London Liquor Co. (£39/12 pack) Goldling Sundown (250ml), 4.8% ABV Available from Goldling (£17/6-pack) Best gourmet canned cocktail Ingredients: organic vodka, soda, Persian lime, pineapple, kaffir lime leaf If you want the full cocktail bar experience in your home (or in the park, on the beach, on holiday...), then Goldling's canned cocktails go a step above a simple spirit and mixer with gourmet ingredients. The Sundown cocktail is juicily pineapple-forward, balanced by tart lime and the bitter edge of soda. It is refreshing and light and despite the bold fruit flavour, it is absolutely not too sweet. It prides itself on being 100 calories, 100% organic and all natural. We also enjoyed the Moonlight - a sweeter option with strawberries and pomegranate. Available from: Goldling (£17/6-pack) Bloody Drinks Bloody Mary (250ml), 6.3% ABV Available from Sainsbury's (£3.50/250ml) Best Bloody Mary Ingredients: Tomato juice, vodka, Amontillado sherry, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce Complete a Sunday brunch spread with an easy bloody Mary cocktail in a can. The classic cocktail from Bloody Drinks is powerful and tastes as high-quality as a freshly mixed drink at the bar. It boasts a strong vodka kick paired with dry, fruity Amontillado sherry. The fresh tomato juice is mixed with tangy, savoury flavours like Worcestershire sauce, a hint of soy sauce and some heat from Tabasco sauce. Available from: Sainsbury's (£3.50/250ml) Malibu piña colada (250ml), 5% ABV Available from Tesco (£2/250ml), Sainsbury's (£2.25/250ml) Best piña colada Ingredients: Caribbean rum with juices and flavourings ‘If you like piña coladas’ and you like them very sweet, then this one’s for you. As you'd expect from a Malibu product, the coconut flavour is dominant, but pineapple comes through strongly, too, and both lend to the overall sweetness. Like most of the cocktails we tried, the booze tastes barely present. Despite this, the drink was generally liked by the judges and praised for its smooth, almost creamy texture. Available from: Tesco (£2/250ml) Sainsbury's (£2.25/250ml) Related reviews The best bottled cocktails The best canned wines The best rosé wine All our best gin guides The best rum taste tested The best picnic hampers The best cool boxes The best portable barbecues The best supermarket picnic food The best gas barbecues The best picnic gadgets Best cocktail subscriptions and clubs Cocktail recipes Summer drinks inspiration Our top mojito recipes Easy cocktail recipes Top 10 retro cocktail recipes 10 gin cocktails you can make in minutes Top 10 rum cocktail recipes This review was last updated in June 2025. If you have any questions or suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. For information on alcohol guidelines, read our guide to drinking responsibly.
The best rye whiskey – an expert taste test
Have you tried rye whiskey? This American spirit is well worth exploring. Read our expert buyer's guide to find some of our best bottles of rye whiskey and serving suggestions
Rye whiskey is an American staple, although they aren’t the only ones whipping up the spicy tipple. The history of rye whiskey in North America dates back to the 18th century – by 1808, farmers in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania were distilling so much rye that they were selling half a barrel for each head in the country. So, what makes a rye whiskey? Quite simply, it has to be mostly made of rye – the mashbill (the recipe) must contain no less than 51 per cent rye grain – making it a close cousin of bourbon which must contain no less than 51 per cent corn. Although, rye is a much spicier style of whiskey than bourbon. It is best described as a beautiful ball of peppery fruit that melts away into oaky caramel. If you fancy a tipple with a bit more of a kick, this is the style of whiskey for you. Read on for our best rye whiskey to buy. For over 400 buyer’s guides, visit our reviews section and find taste tests of gin, vodka, tequila, rum, whisky and much more. The best rye whisky at a glance Best unorthodox rye whiskey: FEW Immortal rye whiskey, £60.95 Best high-strength rye whiskey: Pikesville six-year-old 110 proof straight rye, £78.49 Best traditional rye whiskey: Colonel E.H. Taylor small batch straight rye, £81.95 Best affordable rye whiskey: Bulleit 95 rye, £38.50 Best for cocktails: Sazerac, £35.75 Best gentle rye whiskey: Knob Creek straight rye whiskey, £48.53 Best cult favourite: Michter’s US*1 straight rye, £60.25 Best rye whiskey from beyond America: Kyrö rye whiskey, £49.95 Best after dinner whiskey: Rittenhouse straight rye 100 proof, £42.25 Best complex rye whiskey: WhistlePig 10-year-old small batch rye, £89.99 Best well-known rye whiskey: Jack Daniel's single barrel rye, £63.75 What is rye whiskey? While bourbon is the United States’ most popular whiskey style, it looks as though rye whiskey slowly catching up, having gained far more popularity in recent years. Two main styles of rye whiskey are available today, American and Canadian, but to be labelled American rye whiskey the spirit needs to be produced from a mashbill containing more than 51 per cent rye. Bourbon, for instance, must be made with a mash bill of more than 51 per cent corn. But while Bourbon is characteristically sweet, rye whiskey is typically spicier, bolder and arguably more complex in terms of flavour. Having fallen out of favour during the Second World War, rye whiskey has experienced a renewed increase in popularity during recent years, primarily led by bartenders showcasing classic cocktails traditionally featuring American rye whiskey (think a manhattan or sazerac), and is now becoming far more popular both nationwide and across Canada, Europe and Japan. The best rye whiskey to buy in 2025: taste tested by experts FEW Immortal Rye Whiskey Available from The Whisky Exchange (£60.95), Master of Malt (£65.95) Best unorthodox rye whiskey ABV: 46.5% The Chicago suburb of Evanston was once considered “the seat of Prohibition”, as well as the established headquarters of the temperance movement, continuing to ban alcohol until 1972. Today, Evanston is home to one of Illinois’ most exciting distilleries, FEW Spirits, which focuses on an impressive range of craft distilled whiskeys. Using the distillery’s cask strength rye as a base, FEW Immortal rye whiskey is brought down to bottling strength with cold-extracted Eight Immortals oolong tea, which lends some pleasing floral notes to the whiskey and provides enhanced smoothness. Aromas of typical rye spiciness, some pine resin, faint lemongrass, red grape and a grassy quality. The tea element is a little more nuanced on the palate, with the addition of pink peppercorn, star anise and some gorgeous fruity notes of ripe plum, peach and dragon fruit which continue on the long, warm finish. It’s a great, unusual take on a classic style without ever becoming gimmicky. JH Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£60.95) Master of Malt (£65.95) Pikesville six-year-old 110 proof straight rye Available from The Bottle Club (£78.49) Best high strength rye whiskey ABV: 55% Read our full review of Pikesville straight rye A ‘Liquid Gold’ whiskey. Pikesville was the last standing rye in Maryland when prohibition was repealed and we’re over the moon it made it. This classic rye comes with a bit of extra oomph – it takes a typical rye character of spice and caramel and bombards it with buttery and tropical flavours. A must try. Available from: The Bottle Club (£78.49) Colonel E.H. Taylor small batch straight rye Available from The Whisky Exchange (£81.95), Master of Malt (£81.95) Best traditional rye whiskey ABV: 50% Read our full review of Colonel E.H. Taylor straight rye Jim Murray’s Liquid Gold award says it all, twice. This much-venerated whiskey from Colonel E.H. Taylor is a benchmark of the rye style. Tantalisingly slick and syrupy rye is stretched out and wrapped around a goodie bag of fruits and fairground treats, with popcorn and butterscotch at the fore. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£81.95) Master of Malt (£81.95) Bulleit 95 rye Available from The Whisky Exchange (£38.50), Master of Malt (£38.50) Best affordable whiskey ABV: 45% Read our full review of Bulleit rye whiskey A much revered and decorated rye whiskey from one of America’s most-loved distilleries. Vanilla and tobacco oppose each other with deep red berries, white pepper and orchard fruits providing the glue in the middle of the pair. A complex but well-balanced whiskey that’s impossible to put down. undefined Sazerac straight rye Available from The Whisky Exchange (£35.75), Waitrose Cellar (£47) Best for cocktails ABV: 45% Read our full review of Sazerac straight rye whiskey A whiskey with a well-earned place in history. This legendary rye was the base for America’s first ever branded cocktail. Hailing from the swinging streets of New Orleans, Sazerac is a decadent, syrupy and spicy whiskey that calls on you to indulge and waste a few hours. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£35.75) Waitrose Cellar (£47) Knob Creek rye whiskey undefined Best gentle rye whiskey ABV: 50% Read our full review of Knob Creek rye whiskey Knob Creek knows its way around a whiskey. The brand is part of the Jim Beam family and is well-famed for its bourbon. Knob Creek’s rye expression has proved a resounding success since its launch in 2012. This whiskey does the basics beautifully, marrying caramel and pepper with precision for an encompassing, smooth mouthful. undefined Michter’s US*1 straight rye Available from The Whisky Exchange (£60.25), Available from Master of Malt (£49.95) Master of Malt (£68) Best cult favourite ABV: 42.4% Read our full review of Michter's US*1 straight rye whiskey Michter’s traces its ancestry all the way back to the first ever whiskey company in the United States. Famed for its unique small-batch offerings, this has a cult following. The straight rye expression brings freshly squeezed citrus together with burnt oak and cracked black pepper. Well balanced and undemanding, this is easy to sip all night long. undefined Kyrö rye whiskey Available from Master of Malt (£49.95) Best rye whiskey from beyond America ABV: 47.2% Read our full review of Kyrö single malt rye whiskey Kyrö is one of the funnest distilleries around. This Finnish company produces spirits with the motto ‘in rye we trust’. Its commitment to the grain has produced some spectacular spirits, and the whiskey is no exception. This bottle is slick with honey and vanilla with the right amount of dry pepper to keep you honest. Available from: Master of Malt (£49.95) Rittenhouse straight rye 100 proof Latest Deals Best after dinner whiskey ABV: 50% Read our review of Rittenhouse straight rye whiskey A ‘bottled-in-bond’ whiskey from the much respected Heaven Hill Distillery, this distinctively Pensylvannian bottle is thick with chocolate orange and baking spices dominating. One to sip and savour as an after dinner treat. undefined WhistlePig 10-year-old straight rye Latest Deals Best complex rye whiskey ABV: 50% Read our full review of WhistlePig 10-year-old rye whiskey A much respected rye whiskey from one of North America’s youngest top distilleries. This tipple is complex, drawing on every inch of your tastebuds, taking you from buttery marzipan to black pepper and cloves and everywhere in between. Spicy, sweet and eminently sippable. Jack Daniel’s single barrel rye Available from The Whisky Exchange (£63.75), Master of Malt (£63.75) Best well-known rye whiskey ABV: 45% Read our full review of Jack Daniel's single barrel rye whiskey You know the name but not like this. This single barrel rye is Jack Daniel's’ first new grain whiskey in 150 years. This special edition offering is dry, sweet, spicy and fruity, with each polarising flavour profile married in perfect harmony. A straightforward easy sipper. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£63.75) Master of Malt (£63.75) Rye whiskey cocktails Put your bottle of rye whiskey to good use in one of our classic cocktail recipes. Sazerac Sweet manhattan New York sour The best whisky cocktail recipes More whisky reviews The best Japanese whisky The best whisky to buy as a gift The best bourbon whiskey The best craft whisky The best Scotch whisky The best Irish whiskey Best whiskey glasses Are you a fan of rye whiskey? Share your product suggestions below... This review was last updated in April 2025. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
If you like vodka cocktails such as bloody mary, cosmopolitan, martini and white russian, buying the best bottle will ensure optimum results. Read our expert guide to this versatile spirit.
Vodka is celebrated as the perfect mixer, often used to give standard drinks a little more kick. A measure of vodka in your cola or ginger ale, for example, is the ground floor on the elevator to discovering an entire skyscraper of vodka cocktails. However, vodka is no longer just about simply adding alcohol to your apple juice, as producers look at adding character and flavour to their spirit, from the base product to the distillation method. The result is a new order of flavoursome vodkas that work as well in a naked martini as they do in a Moscow mule. To call vodka a flavourless spirit is now to do it a disservice: the flavours may be delicate, but these intricacies and the distinctions between them are to be celebrated. Brendan Hodrien is a lifestyle writer who specialises in drinks reviews. He has written drinks round ups for a variety of publications, including The Independent, i and the Evening Standard, often specialising in whisky reviews. Here, he has picked the best vodkas, from big names such as Absolut, Chase and Ciroc, to interesting small producers and vintage bottles. Visit our reviews section to find over 400 more buyer's guides, including taste tests of the best gin, whisky, rum, brandy and more, plus gift guides such as the best cocktail gifts for a cocktail lover. Best vodkas at a glance Best vodka for a dry martini: Absolut Elyx, £34.89 Best vodka for a party crowd pleaser: Ciroc vodka, £30.99 Best sustainable vodka: Black Cow Vodka, £26.99 Best vodka for an espresso martini: Portobello Road coffee bean vodka, £27.95 Best fresh vodka: Penderyn Brecon Five Black, £32.90 Best Polish vodka: Potocki vodka, £35.50 Best vodka for beer lovers: Adnam’s Longshore vodka, £34.99 Best unique vodka bottle: Crystal Head vodka, £41.95 Best unusual vodka: Chase English oak smoked vodka, £42.30 Best vodka for sipping: Sipsmith sipping vodka, £30 Best fruity vodka: St George all purpose vodka, £40.95 Best London vodka: East London Liquor Company vodka, £26.75 The best vodka to buy 2025 Absolut Elyx Available from Amazon (£34.89), Ocado (£44.50) Best vodka for a dry martini Star rating: 5/5 Absolut Elyx falls at the luxury end of Swedish outlet Absolut’s offering. It's sure to be a mainstay of upscale bars in years to come, due to its affability with dry vermouth and its slick bottle, designed by London agency Stranger & Stranger. The elegant butteriness you expect from a wheat-based vodka comes through on the palate, along with sweet and nutty notes. It pairs brilliantly with a good-quality Martini vermouth, such as Dolin. Available from: Amazon (£34.89) Ocado (£44.50) Ciroc Premium vodka Available from Master of Malt (£31.75), Amazon (£30.99), Sainsbury's (£41) Best vodka for a party crowd pleaser Star rating: 4/5 Inevitably, Ciroc was going to make this list. The French titan is unusual in that it's a vodka made from grapes as opposed to a grain. French grapes are made into a wine which is then five-times distilled to produce the vodka, which rose to superstar vodka fame when it was celebrated by music mogul Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs. Despite being made from grapes, Ciroc is known for its subtle citrus finish, at once crisp and clean. This is one to be served as an uber cold shot. Available from: Master of Malt (£31.75) Amazon (£30.99) Sainsbury's (£41) Black Cow Vodka Available from Amazon (£26.99), Master of Malt (£28.95) Best sustainable vodka Star rating: 4/5 Black Cow Vodka is thinking way outside of the box, producing spirit from milk. It's a marvel of sustainability and innovation: when making cheese, milk is separated into curds and whey. The whey often ends up wasted – so instead, Black Cow ferment and distil it into vodka. The end result is as creamy as expected with a smattering of pepper sprinkled throughout an almost buttery character. This is excellent with soda and a slice of grapefruit. Available from: Amazon (£26.99) Master of Malt (£28.95) Portobello Road coffee bean vodka Available from Amazon (£26.97), Master of Malt (£27.94) Best vodka for an espresso martini Star rating: 4/5 At least 3kg of potatoes go into making each bottle of Portobello Road vodka. This particular expression from the distillery, famed for its award-winning gin, involves steeping Colombian coffee beans in vodka-filled coffee pot stills for 24 hours before the liquid is then redistilled. The end result is a vodka with that morning coffee aroma, a scent which is carried through to a creamily smooth palate. This is a vodka crying out to be made into an espresso martini. Available from: Amazon (£26.97) Master of Malt (£27.94) Penderyn Brecon Five Black Available from Master of Malt (£32.70), Amazon (£25) Best fresh vodka Star rating: 5/5 Penderyn Distillery is a Welsh powerhouse, knocking out alcoholic delights from its idyllic premises in the Brecon Beacons. Presented in a striking bottle as black as the charcoal the five-times distilled vodka is filtered through, you’ll want to keep this on your shelf long after it’s finished. Freshness is a character which runs rich through the distillery’s offering, as you’d expect given the bucolic base and the fresh glacier water used. The overall profile is clean, crisp and as subtly peppery as it is fruity. Enjoy over the rocks or with tonic and a slice of lemon (in the sun, of course). Available from: Master of Malt (£32.70) Amazon (£25) Potocki vodka Available from The Whisky Exchange (£35.50) Best Polish vodka The past decade has seen plenty of vodkas hiding behind highly-massaged marketing stories, but amongst them are some true gems - with plenty of heritage. Potocki has one of the strongest histories in distillation, with original documents tracing its production back to 1784. The spirit today is made from rye and is lightly filtered before bottling to retain its strength of flavour and classic earthy finish. A ‘must try’ on this list, for quality, consistency and history alone. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£35.50) Adnams Copper House Longshore vodka Available from Adnams (£34.99), Amazon (£38.95) Best vodka for beer lovers If there’s one thing that Adnams know a thing or two about, it’s beer. With great brewing knowledge comes a keenness to experiment with different grains and the Adnams Copper House, a gleaming distillery which looks like the embodiment of a Jules Verne novel, has produced this vodka using barley, oats and wheat. This gives the resulting vodka a creamy but deliciously peppery note. Available from: Adnams (£34.99) Amazon (£38.95) Crystal Head vodka Available from The Whisky Exchange (£41.95), Amazon (£54.11) Best unique vodka bottle One of the most eye-catching bottle designs to ever be produced – not just in vodka, but the spirits world in general – Crystal Head has been developed in part by comedy legend Dan Aykroyd – once a Ghostbuster, now a spirits maker! With the bottle made by Bruni Glass in Italy, the spirit inside is quadruple-distilled then filtered through quartz crystals, which have come to be known as Herkimer diamonds. Hints of minerals add depth to this genuine gem of the spirits worlds. Available from: The Whisky Exchange (£41.95) Amazon (£54.11) Chase English oak smoked vodka Available from Amazon (£42.30) Best unusual vodka Not all vodka comes from mainland Europe and this smoked edition, made in Hereford, is enhanced by delicate notes from ex-Scottish whisky casks from the island of Islay. It has a slight caramel colour to it, taken from the oak barrels in which it has laid slumbering for a number of months, resulting in a taste more akin to a mezcal than a vodka. Available from: Amazon (£42.30) Sipsmith sipping vodka undefined Best vodka for sipping The chaps at Sipsmith set up their small operation in urban West London in 2009 to distill in traditional copper pot stills: the first people to do so in nearly two centuries in London. Another small team making a range of spirits, their now-famous gin is highly acclaimed, and so is their vodka. Distilled using their 300 litre still named Prudence, it is an English rose of a vodka. Latest Deals St George all purpose vodka Available from Master of Malt (£40.95) Best fruity vodka Based in California, the chaps at St George are truly experimental. This vodka is born of a passion to create a more ‘normal’ vodka to work with soda, tonic and in a Martini, and they achieve this by using pear juice which is mixed with a grain base. And delicious it is too. Smooth is the word of the day here. Available from: Master of Malt (£40.95) East London Liquor Company vodka Available from Amazon (£28), The Whisky Exchange (£26.75) Best London vodka Made using 100% British wheat, this hidden gem is made a short walk from Mile End station in the very heart of London’s East End. Their distillery is also a restaurant, bottle shop, bar and a place where you can even distill spirits yourself. It really is a playground for the adventurous drinker, and their vodka doesn’t disappoint. It’s as good over ice as it is with tonic. Available from: Amazon (£28) The Whisky Exchange (£26.75) What is vodka made from? Just what vodka is is as simple or as complex as you want it to be. Simply, it is a mixture of ethanol and water, a neutral spirit. When you look under the hood, vodka is plenty more: it is characterised by its base ingredients, it's the base of myriad popular liqueurs. To understand the complexities of vodka, it's essential to understand how this shottable, mixable and sippable spirit is made. Vodka involves fermenting just about anything with a sugar or starch content - such as rye, wheat, potato, or molasses – and distilling the pulp to produce ethanol which is then mixed with water. The flavour is in the detail. What's the best mixer for vodka? How you want to enjoy your vodka depends on the evening you want to have. Tonic paired with a citrus-hued vodka will make an incredibly refreshing drink. Higher purity vodkas, ones which have been distilled a number of times, are crisp, clean and enjoyable over ice or served straight from the freezer. The bow-tied elephant in the room is the Martini (shaken, not stirred), and here it is open season; if you prefer a creamier character, then deploy a potato vodka. If you want something more peppery for your sophisticated, serve then turn to a rye-based spirit. How we tested vodka We taste tested vodkas in a variety of ways: served neat and from the freezer, with tonic and, inevitably, in an array of cocktails. We were looking for smoothness (at the lesser end of the spectrum the spirit can taste like just that: raw alcohol diluted with a spot of water) and a distinct flavour profile, a character which would make you choose one vodka over another. Vodka cocktail recipes Put your bottle to good use in one of our vodka cocktail recipes, whether you're after a classic mix or new spin on this timeless spirit. Bloody mary Cosmopolitan White russian Long island ice tea Sex on the beach Passion fruit martini Vodka martini All our best vodka cocktail recipes Spirits and drinks reviews The best whisky The best rum The best bourbon The best traditional gins The best mezcal The best pisco The best rosé wine The best sustainable spirits to buy Which vodka do you drink? We'd love to hear your product suggestions. This review was last updated in January 2025. If you have any questions or suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. For information on alcohol guidelines, read our guide to drinking responsibly.
Try premium whiskies delivered direct to your door by joining a whisky club - read on for our full reviews of the best whisky subscriptions and clubs.
Whisky can be an intimidating drink for some. Many are intrigued but mystified by the spirit. For others whisky is a hobby and a passion. Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or a curious newbie, whisky subscriptions are a great way to go. Subscription boxes are everywhere these days, and that makes sense: as our lives have become busier and more complicated, it is helpful for others to organise our meals, chocolates, beers or even cheeses for us. Whisky is no exception. There are dozens of services out there to keep you in stock of drams of the finest, with options for those looking to learn and explore, as well those who know exactly what they like. We’ve rounded up the best whisky subscriptions on the market so that you can find a service to match your budget and palate. For more unbiased expert buyer’s guides, visit our reviews section to find 400+ round-ups of everything from the best English sparkling wine through to recipe delivery boxes. Best whisky subscriptions at a glance Best for combining old and new: Pour & Sip, £29.95 a month Best for learning about whisky: Flaviar, from £158 for 2 quarterly deliveries Best for ultra-premium whiskies: The Dram Team, from £45 a month Best for full bottles of whisky: Summerton Whisky Club, £59.95 bi-monthly Best for letterbox delivery: Whisky Me, from £8.95 a month Best for gifting: The Whisky Tasting Company, from £89 for 3 deliveries Best whisky subscriptions to buy 2024 Pour & Sip Available from Pour & Sip (from £29.95 a month) Best for: Celebrating the old and exploring the new. Powered by Master of Malt, you know you’re in for a treat with Pour & Sip. This subscription service offers punters five 30ml drams of whisky each month with selections ranging from the rare and wonderful to long celebrated classics. Bespoke tasting notes are included to guide you through each drop. The service’s welcome pack includes two Glencairn glasses and there are twice monthly live tasting sessions which are broadcast across Twitter, YouTube and Facebook. If you miss the session you can catch up at your leisure or check out past episodes which cover your favourite drams. An interactive community chats away in the comments section of the tastings, and members also have access to discounts on full bottles as well as the ability to earn loyalty points. Pour & Sip is terrific value at £29.95 a month. Available from: Pour & Sip (from £29.95 a month) Flaviar Available from Flaviar (from £158 for 2 deliveries) Best for: Learning and loving, swot up on the finest spirits as you drink them. If you’re endorsed by Tony Hawk then you’ve got to be pretty cool and, to be fair to Flaviar, it is. The proposition here is an enticing one: a quarterly delivery of a full bottle of booze plus a selection of smaller drams. You pick which full bottle you want and also select from a range of carefully curated miniatures, with these sample-sized bottles taking you on journeys through peaty whisky to ultra-smooth Irish offerings. Flaviar isn’t just about whisky either – you can grab a full bottle of rum and a selection box of whisky or vice versa, with numerous different spirits on offer. Flaviar pitches itself as a club rather than a subscription service, with a host of activities available from your dashboard. Members can level up their booze knowledge at the School of Spirits, drink along with on-demand online tastings and attend exclusive distillery tours. Tastings and tours are currently online but aim to be available in person again in the future. If you’re looking for boozy edu-tainment then Flaviar is the place to go. Available from: Flaviar (from £158 for 2 deliveries) The Dram Team Available from The Dram Team (from £45 a month) Best for: Sampling ultra-premium whiskies without breaking the bank. An excellent choice for the curious, the beginners and the experienced enthusiasts. The Dram Team offers a selection box containing five 25ml drams of whisky which cost on average £50 per full bottle, with some stretching up to £150 per 70cl. The box is completed by the all-important Sixth Dram, a 10ml bottle of whisky which costs £200-250 per 70cl. Chris, The Dram Team’s founder, fell in love with whisky at a tasting event. Several years later he decided to take that whisky-tasting experience and put it in a box for people to enjoy. Boxes start at £45 per month with gift subscriptions also on offer. Available from: The Dram Team (from £45 a month) Summerton Whisky Club Available from Summerton Whisky Club (£59.95 bi-monthly) Best for: Full bottles of aged whisky at great value. Subscribers receive a bottle of aged whisky every other month, with each bottle hand selected by founder Dan Humphrey. The mission for Summerton is to get great whiskies out into the world. On average a bottle will be cheaper to receive through the Summerton club than to buy in a supermarket, with some past offerings being worth double the subscription price, while other whiskies are exclusive to the club. Furthermore there is an eager community connecting over chatrooms and linking up each year for the online Summerton Club Whisky Festival, as well as discounts on full bottles. A bargain at £50 every two months. Available from: Summerton Whisky Club (£59.95 bi-monthly) Whisky Me Available from Whisky Me (from £8.95 a month) Best for: Never missing a delivery of precious whisky. Whisky Me is a market disrupting proposition. Why deliver whisky in a pouch instead of a bottle? The answer is quite simple: money and efficiency. With Whisky Me you never miss your delivery, it’s just posted through your door. In addition, the pouch is lighter than a traditional glass bottle and requires less packaging, so it is cheaper to post, hence why Whisky Me is able to offer its customers such a competitive price. What’s more, if you send 12 pouches back, you get a free refill. Customers can choose from a traditional single malt scotch subscription or a discovery option which includes whiskies from the USA, Japan and elsewhere in between. Alternatively, you can get both. Subscriptions start at just £8.95 per month, making Whisky Me the best value option on the market. Available from: Whisky Me (from £8.95 a month) The Whisky Tasting Company Available from The Whisky Tasting Company (from £89 for 3 deliveries) Best for: Gifting something special with the help of an expert team. The people behind The Whisky Tasting Company are from good whisky stock. Co-owner Colin Sinclair is the nephew of one of the Glenmorangie’s famed Sixteen Men of Tain. The Whisky Tasting Company was actually the first whisky subscription to launch in the UK, hitting the market in 2010. It was also the first to create a whisky tasting set by combining offerings from various distilleries as opposed to a single firm. The company even owns its own bottling facility near Lockerbie, with every step of the process done in-house: sourcing, bottling, labelling, packing and dispatching. Where The Whisky Tasting Company really excels is in gifting – you can purchase the ideal subscription for your loved one or order a one-off box to suit their taste or the occasion. The first box is personalised, giving you the option to write a special message for your lucky recipient. Thereafter they can kick back and raise a toast to you of an evening as the whiskies keep rolling in. Boxes are delivered every three months and contain five 30ml drams of rare and fine whisky, with prices starting at £89 for three deliveries. Available from: The Whisky Tasting Company (from £89 for 3 deliveries) More like this The best meat delivery boxes tried and tested Best chocolate subscriptions Best cheese subscriptions Best tea subscriptions and deliveries Best beer subscriptions Best gin subscriptions Best healthy meal box subscriptions Best sustainable spirits Best cocktail subscriptions and clubs Best whiskey glasses If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
Looking to order gin online to arrive direct to your doorstep? Read our expert review of the best gin subscriptions and clubs.
If you’re into good gin but don’t fancy scouring supermarket shelves or the time-consuming researching of products online, we have the perfect solution – a gin subscription. A gin subscription will regularly deliver gin direct to your door to save your bar cart ever going dry. Subscriptions range from big bottles of premium gins paired with an array of tonics and snacks, to more niche and personalised small-batch deliveries focusing on craft gins and independent bottles. Fixed-length subscriptions also make great gifts for the gin lover in your life. So, do you want a big bottle with all the frills each month or do you want something distilled just for you and your fellow club members? Our drinks expert Brendan Hodrien has tested the best gin subscriptions and deliveries to find the perfect on for you. A lifestyle writer who specialises in drinks reviews, Brendan has previously written about the best drinks for The Independent, The i, and Evening Standard, more often than not waxing lyrical about Islay whiskies. For more unbiased expert buyers' guides, visit our reviews section to find 400+ round-ups of everything from the best English sparkling wine through to recipe delivery boxes. Looking for offers? These are the best Prime Day alcohol deals our experts have found this year. Best gin subscription boxes at a glance Best gin subscription for a special night in: Craft Gin Club, from £45 a month Best subscription for regional gin: Craft56 Scottish Gin Club, from £40 a month Best budget gin subscription: I Love Gin, £17.50 a month Best gin club for amateur mixologists: Think Gin Club, from £44 a month Best for expertly selected gin: interGin, from £44 a month Best gin subscription for miniatures: Little Gin Box, from £11 a month Best gin subscriptions to buy 2024 Craft Gin Club Available from Craft Gin Club (from £45 a month) Best gin subscription for a special night in Craft Gin Club really pull out all the stops, giving you everything you need for a night of relaxing by yourself or enjoying the company of your nearest and dearest. In your monthly box you will find a full sized bottle of craft gin, the perfect tonic pairing, sweet and savoury snacks, all the ingredients and garnishes to make the cocktail of the month and a 56 page magazine. The full-sized bottle of gin is always impressive and high quality, sourcing bottles from around the world - previous boxes have included Lantic Gin from Cornwall, Australian Forty Spotted Gin or a Provencé pink gin. We've also noticed that the bottles often have great designs, meaning your bar cart collection will shine in no time! This all encompassing offering gives you the option of divvying out the G&Ts among the family, or relaxing for a read and a snack with your feet up. Sign up to Craft Gin Club (from £45 a month) Craft56 Scottish Gin Club Available from Craft56 (£40 a month) Best subscription for regional gin Craft56’s Scottish Gin Club is premium but personal and is dedicated to promoting the best of the best from Scotland. This offering is centred on small-batch craft gins from Scotland, promising member-only exclusives, limited editions, new releases and all time Scottish favourites sourced from exciting independent Scottish producers. The gins are paired with Scottish tonics or mixers and your first box also contains a freeze-dried garnish selection to finish off the perfect G&T. Notes give information on the distillery, perfect serve and tasting notes. We are also fans of the guarantee of a 70cl bottle each month, only varying to a 50cl bottle if it is a gin of ‘truly exceptional quality’. If you're a proud Scot (or know someone who is!), this is the box for you. Sign up to Craft56 Scottish Gin Club (£40 a month) I Love Gin Club Available from I Love Gin (£17.50 a month) Best budget gin subscription I Love Gin offer a no-frills, value-for-money way to explore gin. Each box arrives with two gin miniatures and two complimentary tonics, amounting to four G&Ts (if you are disciplined with your servings). We love this bitesize approach – you get to discover new gins for a snip and the tonics are vastly varied, offering you insights to new flavours and styles of mixer that you may not have tried or thought of before. Members also get exclusive discounts on full sized bottles from the online shop, handy if you find a bottle you love. It's a fab non-daunting box to look forward to arriving each month for a fun Friday night. Sign up to the I Love Gin Club (£17.50 a month) Think Gin Club Available from Think Gin Club (from £44 a month) Best gin club for amateur mixologists If you’re going to make a stellar G&T, or any other gin cocktail for that matter, then you’ll need the tools of the trade. Think Gin Club include a free gin gift in every box - think cocktail stirrers, bar keeps and unique tools, plus you'll get a free gin glass with your first box. Each month you get a full sized bottle of craft gin, plenty of mixers to go with it, snacks and a copy of High Spirits (packed with gin of the month facts and cocktail recipes). Each box is guaranteed to be worth over £55, making your £40 a month subscription fee something of a bargain. You can also decide whether to subscribe monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly, plus you'll get 10% off your first box. Sign up to the Think Gin Club (from £44 a month) interGIN Available from interGIN (from £42 per box) Best for expertly selected gin What sets interGIN apart is that their boxes are curated by a Ginsarian (a resident gin expert). We’ve all been there: sat at the latest, trendy bar staring down a drinks menu devoid of anything that looks like home – thank goodness the person behind the bar knows everything. InterGIN have one such know-it-all. Each month you are delivered a full bottle of craft gin, accompanied by plenty of ideal tonics and garnishes, seasonal treats, snacks, syrups, mixers and Gin magazine. It feels like a proper hamper to unbox each month and is a good option if you like the fun of additional extras to make it a full experience alongside just the gin. You can choose whether to receive the box bi-monthly or quarterly: given the amount of product in each box, bi-monthly is definitely a less overwhelming option than monthly would have been. Each delivery is worth over £55 but you get it for £40, you can save even more money with the exclusive online discounts that come with membership.With your first box you even get the choice of an extra gift of last month's box as a bonus, or a bouquet of flowers! Sign up to interGIN (from £42 per box) Little Gin Box Available from Little Gin Box (from £11 a month), Red Letter Days (£55 for three months premium, with extra miniature each month), Buy a Gift (£55 for three months premium, with extra miniature each month) Best gin subscription for miniatures A simple budget option for anybody looking to explore the world of gin. For just £10 a month subscribers will receive two 50ml bottles of gin with each bottle typically coming from a different craft gin distillery. £10 a month is extremely good value considering that you can quite easily pay more than a tenner for a double G&T in many bars throughout the country, and that won't be the top-shelf stuff you get in a Little Gin Box. Also massively in this subscription's favour is that it’s letterbox friendly, there’s fewer things more annoying than waiting all month for a delivery only to be greeted by a ‘sorry we missed you’ slip. In addition to two delicious bottles of gin, each box contains tasting notes for that month’s selection. If you like what you received there’s a 10% discount code included should you want to buy a full-sized bottle. Subscriptions can be cancelled any time but there is also the option of purchasing a fixed-term subscription, ideal for birthday or Christmas gift. The question is: how much do you like the lucky person; three months, six months or 12 months? Available from: Little Gin Box (from £11 a month) Red Letter Days (£55 for three months premium subscription, with garnishes and extra miniature each month) Buy a Gift (£55 for three months premium subscription, with garnishes and extra miniature each month) Related reviews Best whisky subscriptions and clubs Best cocktail subscriptions and clubs Best tea subscriptions and deliveries Best sustainable spirits Best chocolate subscriptions and clubs Best beer subscriptions Best gin to buy as gifts Best flavoured gin Best pink gin Best sloe gin Best sustainable spirits to buy Top 5 most unusual gins we've tried If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. Are you a member of a gin club? We'd love to hear your recommendations below...
Read our expert review of the best rums, from dark and spicy versions to versatile spirits for sipping or in cocktails
Rum is a spirit made from sugarcane; most are made using molasses, while agricole-style rums are made using sugarcane juice. The origins of the spirit can be traced back to the Caribbean sugarcane plantations of the 17th Century with plantation owners squeezing the crop for every last penny, distilling the byproducts of sugarcane production into rum. Fast forward to the modern day, and we have rum of different colours, styles, and flavours. Dark rums get their colour from barrels during the ageing process, white rums are typically unaged and colourless as a result. With regards to strength, there are navy proof and overproof rums; the former clocks in around 57% ABV, the latter coming in above that. Each style has its merits, some are more useful for cocktail making, others are best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Whatever your preference, we’ve rounded up the finest rums for any occasion or budget. Best rums at a glance Best Jamaican rum: Appleton Estate 12 Year Old, £44.99 Best XO rum: Captain Bligh, £44.03 Best Guyanese rum: El Dorado 12 Year Old, £37.00 Best Cuban rum: Havana Selección de Maestros, £56.36 Best dark overproof rum: Goslings Black Seal 151 proof rum, £41.99 Best for gifting: The Kraken Black Spiced Rum Legendary Survivor Series - The Lighthouse Keeper, £36.25 Best white overproof: SVS, £47.66 Best Japanese rum: Kiyomi, £47.89 Best coconut rum: Aluna, £22.99 Best agricole rum: Rhum JM XO, £65.94 Best for rum and cola: Planteray Cut and Dry, €38.99 Best rums to buy 2024 Appleton Estate 12 Year Old Available from Amazon (£44.99), The Whiskey Exchange (£48.50) Best Jamaican rum Star rating: 5/5 The Appleton Estate is Jamaican Rum; according to the history books distillation first took place on the estate way back in 1749. Situated in the lush Nassau Valley, Appleton Estate purports to be one of the only rum producers with a terroir, owing to the heavenly combination of limestone filtered spring water, a lush climate and daily showers you can set your watch to. At the helm is the legendary Dr. Joy Spence, who in 1997 became the first woman in the world to become Master Blender in the spirits industry. The Appleton 12 Year Old is said to be an expression of Dr. Spence’s passion; there’s marzipan on the nose and a robust palate, smooth with cream and peppered with baking spices. Appleton’s eight-year-old expression is another excellent choice at a lower price point, with its toffee and caramel character keeping you coming back for more. Available from: Amazon (£44.99) The Whiskey Exchange (£48.50) Captain Bligh Available from Master of Malt (£44.03) Best XO rum Star rating: 5/5 In the 19th Century, Captain William Bligh was charged with the task of cleaning up the rum trade in Australia, his mission sparking a rebellion in New South Wales. Despite his economic efforts, Captain Bligh is most remembered for being a victim of the infamous mutiny aboard the HMS Bounty. In this bottle, his protectorate of the rum trade lives on and Captain Bligh XO has been awarded numerous gold medals, and in 2014 was named the world’s best rum. Aged around 10 years in Kentucky bourbon barrels, the nose is packed with tropical fruits and dark brown sugar; the palate is complex with more tropical fruits passing a parade of vanilla, oak, dried sultana and cinnamon. Available from: Master of Malt (£44.03) El Dorado 12 Year Old Available from Amazon (£37.00), Master of Malt (£37.00) Best Guyanese rum Star rating: 5/5 In 1595, Sir Walter Raleigh led an expedition in search of the legendary golden city of El Dorado, believing that this mythical metropolis was situated in the highlands of Guyana. While Sir Walter was left disappointed, if he’d stuck around another century or so he would’ve struck gold – liquid gold anyway. Considering the renown of Demerara sugar, it is no surprise that this Guyanese county is producing world class rums and has done for centuries. In the 1700s there were over 300 distilleries producing rum in Guyana, in the modern day the most prominent distillery in the country is producing the revered El Dorado Rum. The firm’s 12-year-old expression has a nose sweet with tropical fruits skewered with baking spices, both of which follow through to a palate mellow with caramel wrapped around vanilla and cocoa. Available from: Amazon (£37.00) Master of Malt (£37.00) Havana Selección de Maestros Available from Master of Malt (£56.36), The Whiskey Exchange (£59.75) Best Cuban rum Star rating: 5/5 Cuban rum may not be quite as famous as the island’s cigars but it is a tight-run race and Havana Club certainly makes a worthy case for respecting the island’s spirits output. Considering that in 1850 Cuba was producing a third of the world’s sugar, it is no surprise that the country is making some of the finest rum in the world. Each year the island’s Maestros de Ron gather to blend a special bottle, the multi-step process culminates in the masters of the craft identifying the finest casks on the island which are then blended and aged in new white oak barrels. The latest expression boasts a nose of candied nuts whilst the palate is slick with tobacco and baking spices with hints of cocoa. Available from: Master of Malt (£56.36) The Whiskey Exchange (£59.75) Goslings Black Seal 151 proof rum Available from Master of Malt (£41.99), The Whiskey Exchange (£44.95) Best dark overproof rum Star rating: 5/5 Who doesn’t love a bit of lore? Gather round. Each bottle of Goslings rum features the motif of a black seal balancing a barrel on its nose; what many may not know is that this sozzled sea creature came a long time after the rum. Trading from the 19th Century, Goslings initially sold rum direct from the barrel but roughly around the time of the First World War, the firm began decanting rum into champagne bottles reclaimed from the British officers’ mess, each bottle featuring a black wax seal. The Goslings Black Seal rum (151 proof) is an overproof variant of the core expression which packs a delicious punch. Clocking in at 75.5% ABV this surprisingly smooth pour can be summed up in two words: caramel petrol. In more words: surprisingly smooth with syrupy molasses, caramel and brown sugar dominating ahead of background cinnamon. Available from: Master of Malt (£41.99) The Whiskey Exchange (£44.95) The Kraken Black Spiced Rum Legendary Survivor Series - The Lighthouse Keeper Available from Master of Malt (£36.25) Best for gifting Star rating: 5/5 The Kraken black spiced rum is the most popular black spiced rum in the country, boasting a loyal legion of fans and two flavours (black cherry and vanilla, roast coffee) alongside the core offering. Each year, this loyal legion flocks to buy the annual limited edition bottle; each coming with a new design and backstory. The series has become eminently collectible. This year’s bottle is dedicated to the only lighthouse keeper to come face to face with the mythical beast and survive. The rum itself is worthy of such dedication – syrupy molasses is carpeted with baking spices and oak, making this an ideal rum for complex cocktail and simple pairings such as with cola or ginger beer. Available from: Master of Malt (£36.25) SVS Available from Master of Malt (£48.83) Best white overproof Star rating: 5/5 There are few rums from a setting as idyllic as Sunset Very Strong. Borne of the picturesque island of St. Vincent, this rum is a local delicacy which washed up on British shores a few years ago and has remained an 'in the know' favourite of overproof connoisseurs. 'Very Strong' is an understatement if anything; this rum clocks in at a daunting 84.5% ABV, but don’t let that put you off, this is a nuanced tipple with an incredibly satisfying oily mouthfeel, bags of marzipan in the nose and ginger and tropical fruit spilling from the palate. St Vincent locals are known to enjoy this with a splash of cold water and a squeeze of lime and who are we to argue? Available from: Master of Malt (£48.83) Kiyomi Japanese rum Available from Amazon (£47.89), Master of Malt (£48.24) Best Japanese rum Star rating: 4/5 Translated from Japanese into English as ‘pure beauty’, Kiyomi is worthy of the moniker after one glance of the bottle. Featuring a distinctive four leg design and elaborate embossing this a bottle elegant enough to hold onto after it has been thoroughly enjoyed. The rum itself hails from Okinawa, Japan’s foremost sugar producing region. Distillation began in 1961 when American GIs stationed on the island began clamouring for rum and the enterprising Mr Tadashi Matsuda was happy to oblige. Light and floral with a smoky shadow, orchard fruits and juicy citrus also run through the palate. Available from: Amazon (£47.89) Master of Malt (£48.24) Aluna coconut rum Available from Amazon (£22.99) Best coconut rum Star rating: 4/5 Rum is associated with island life, the Caribbean and tropical fruits, most prominently coconuts. This rum takes the step of pouring that delicious coconut essence straight into the bottle. Aluna coconut rum is made using a blend of Guatemalan and Caribbean rums, combined with fresh coconut water and toasted coconut. The result is a refreshing pour and a slick and satisfying mouthfeel with coconut unsurprisingly stealing the show. This rum is a delight over ice but is screaming out to be poured into a pina colada. Available from: Amazon (£22.99) Rhum JM XO Available from Master of Malt (£65.94) Best agricole rum Star rating: 4/5 Rhum JM is unique in this list as the only agricole rum – a rum made using sugarcane juice as opposed to molasses; the name belying its origin in the French Caribbean islands. Rhum JM hails from Martinique, at the foot of the scenic Mount Pelée. The distillery is perfectly located for rum production with the nearby River Roches providing mineral rich volcanic filtered water used for soaking sugarcane. The Rhum JM XO has gingerbread on the nose along with flashes of citrus. The palate is juicy with tropical fruit whilst ginger reappears alongside vanilla, an expertly blended and balanced rhum. Available from: Master of Malt (£65.94) Planteray Cut and Dry coconut rum Available from Home of Malts (€38.99) Best rum and cola Star rating: 4/5 In January 2023, Plantation Rum rebranded as Planteray and the Cut and Dry coconut rum was the first release under the new label. There is a whole coconut used per litre of Planteray Cut and Dry, each being hand picked before being cut, dried and infused with the rum. Landing on the perfect recipe took the distillery some time and a number of attempts – 97 of them, in fact. The result is the ideal rum to pair with cola; it's overflowing with coconut and vanilla with a peppering of ginger providing some punch to the palate. Available from: Home of Malts (€38.99) More on spirits... Best spiced rum Best bourbon Best artisan gins Best traditional gins 10 spirits to buy to stay on-trend Best sustainable spirits Which rum do you drink? We'd love to hear your product suggestions. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
The best pisco – top bottles to buy in the UK
Have you tried pisco yet? This South American brandy made in Peru and Chile from fermented grape juice is famously used in a pisco sour cocktail. Discover our top bottles
Where there is wine there is brandy. An age old tradition repeated across the globe, for centuries people have been taking the leftovers from winemaking and turning it into brandy, grappa, aguardiente, firewater, pisco; particularly in Italy with grappa, these distillates were for those who couldn’t afford wine. Over time brandy stopped being incidental to winemaking, going from a peasant pour to a sophisticated sip. Famous as the signature ingredient in the Pisco Sour, pisco hails from the Andean region of South America with Chile and Peru both claiming to have pioneered the spirit. The differences between the two countries’ pisco making traditions are nuanced, with Peruvian pisco being typically unaged and made using only grape juice whilst Chilean pisco can be aged and it is permitted to add water during the process. Whilst pisco can be an intimidating spirit for the unacquainted, there is plenty to explore and enjoy. We’ve rounded up the best bottles on the market, breaking down the ideal bottle for each taste and use case. Best pisco at a glance Best introductory pisco: BarSol Primero Quebranta, £30.99 Best for complexity: BarSol Acholado, £35.94 Best Chilean pisco: Waqar Pisco, £40.89 Best for pear notes: Demonio de los Andes Pisco Acholado, £28.68 Best balanced pisco: La Diablada, £37.49 Best for floral notes: El Gobernador, £29.50 Best for jasmine notes: ABA Pisco, £19.99 Best newcomer: Macchu Pisco, £35.99 Best bottle: Viñas de Oro Acholado, £26.67 Best for bartenders: Campo de Encanto Acholado, £34.55 Best pisco to buy 2024 BarSol Primero Quebranta Available from Amazon (£30.99), The Whiskey Exchange (£32.75) Best introductory pisco Star rating: 5/5 Hailing from Ica in Peru, BarSol’s name was born from the ambition to bring pisco produced under the Ica sol to bars across the world. This expression is made solely using the Quebranta grape, one of the most traditional grape varieties when it comes to Peruvian pisco. The Quebranta is a non-aromatic variety, making this a fine introduction to the category as it affords the pisco a straightforward character uncomplicated by floral overtones, the palate being a melding of subtle orchard fruits and citrus. Available from: Amazon (£30.99) The Whiskey Exchange (£32.75) BarSol Acholado Available from Amazon (£35.94), The Whiskey Exchange (£35.95) Best for complexity Star rating: 5/5 If Primero Quebranta is a recommended introduction to pisco then Acholado is the ideal next step. This expression is made using three different grape varieties as opposed to the monolithic Quebranta; though the aforementioned is 70% of the mix, the grape is joined by Italia (20%) and Torontel (10%) and nothing else - not even water is added during the process of making any BarSol pisco. The result is more bombastic and complex than the Quebranta expression with the grape notes juicier and joined by dark berries, spices and a hint of toffee. Available from: Amazon (£35.94) The Whiskey Exchange (£35.95) Waqar Pisco Available from Master of Malt (£40.89), The Whiskey Exchange (£42.75) Best Chilean pisco Star rating: 5/5 Making a strong case for the merits of Chilean pisco is Waqar, produced in the Tulahuén Valley at the foot of the Andes. Five generations of the Camposano family have been distilling the spirit, the family hand picks the muscat grapes used to produce this pisco. The use of muscat grapes is evident on the nose and the palate with the pisco inevitably boasting the same fruity and floral character you would expect from a muscat wine; pear and citrus are at the fore ahead of punches of spice. Available from: Master of Malt (£40.89) The Whiskey Exchange (£42.75) Demonio de los Andes Pisco Acholado Available from Master of Malt (£28.68), The Whiskey Exchange (£32.25) Best for pear notes Star rating: 5/5 This pisco is named after Don Francisco de Carvajal, a Spanish military officer nicknamed The Demon of the Andes owing to his brutal reputation during Peru’s 16th Century civil wars; the thinking being that the controversial figure’s bravado and robustness is mirrored in the character of the pisco. Acholado translates in this instance as ‘mongrel’, referring to the quintet of grape varieties used (Quebranta, Albilla, Torontel, Moscatel, and Italia), the mix produces an in-your-face floral pisco with notes of rose and slices of pear at the fore. Available from: Master of Malt (£28.68) The Whiskey Exchange (£32.25) La Diablada Available from Master of Malt (£37.49), Amazon (£37.49) Best balanced pisco Star rating: 5/5 Another acholado pisco, La Diablada is named after a dance performed in the Andean region of South America, particularly in Bolivia, Peru and Chile. A mainstay of carnival celebrations, the dancers often employ elaborate costumes to perform the dance which depicts a battle between angels and devils. This pisco isn’t as tumultuous as the story of the dance and instead is made up of delicate rose and citrus notes with fresh grapes also on the palate. Available from: Master of Malt (£37.49) Amazon (£37.49) El Gobernador Available from Master of Malt (£29.50), The Whiskey Exchange (£32.25) Best for floral notes Star rating: 4/5 El Gobernador is a member of the Torres family stable, the firm best known for its eponymous Spanish brandy. Having begun distillation in the Penedès region of Spain in 1928 the family expanded into Chile in 1979 and El Gobernador was born in the Limarí Valley. Deploying Rose Muscat and Muscat of Alexandria grapes, the firm uses a single distillation method devised to preserve the terpenic aromas of the grapes; the result is floral and fruity, marrying rose and lemon zest. Available from: Master of Malt (£29.50) The Whiskey Exchange (£32.25) ABA Pisco Available from Master of Malt (£19.99), The Whiskey Exchange (£20.95) Best for jasmine notes Star rating: 4/5 Founded in 1921 by Alberto Aguirre Taborga, we are now onto the third generation of the family at the helm of the ABA Pisquera. The firm is dedicated to traditional, artisanal methods, cutting no corners from field to bottle. Grapes are picked by hand and fermented at a low temperature in order to best preserve aromas, deepen flavours and aid in producing a smoother final product. ABA pisco is full of floral notes with jasmine dominating, the palate is also sweet with honey, all rounded off by tangerine. Available from: Master of Malt (£19.99) The Whiskey Exchange (£20.95) Macchu Pisco Available from Drink Supermarket (£35.99), Amazon (£43.52) Best newcomer Star rating: 4/5 A baby in comparison to some of the more ancient pisco distilleries in this list, Macchu Pisco was founded in 2006 by the Asher sisters, Melanie and Lizzie. The former was studying at Harvard when she decided to pursue her passion for her native spirit, the motivation to sell the liquid being in her blood with her Grandmother having traded in pisco from her bodega in Lima. This expression is made using only the Quebranta grape - a well balanced tipple, the liquid is crisp with citrus and a hint of lemongrass. Available from: Drink Supermarket (£35.99) Amazon (£43.52) Viñas de Oro Acholado Available from Master of Malt (£26.67), Amazon (£26.67) Best bottle Star rating: 4/5 Viñas de Oro is another pisco house situated in the Ica valley, delivering its piscos in a sleek vase like bottle you’ll want to keep hold of. A region noted for its grape cultivation, boasting an ideal soil composition, it is well shielded by the Andes mountains and the desert climate helps mitigate against the diseases that can plague crops in a wetter environment. This Acholado is made using Quebranta, Italia, and Torontel, the palate is smooth and sweet with notes of honey and herbaceous citrus. Available from: Master of Malt (£26.67) Amazon (£26.67) Campo de Encanto Acholado Available from Master of Malt (£34.55), The Whiskey Exchange (£42.50) Best for bartenders Star rating: 4/5 The brainchild of sommelier Walter Moore, bartender Duggan McDonnell and Peruvian distiller Carlos Romero; the thinking behind this pisco is that it is by bartenders, for bartenders and as such is expectedly delicious at the base of a pisco sour. This acholado is made using Quebranta, Torontel and Italia grapes; floral and fruity on the palate, stone fruits mingle with jasmine and lemongrass for a complex and crisp sip. Available from: Master of Malt (£34.55) The Whiskey Exchange (£42.50) Learn how to make the perfect pisco sour. Related reviews Best mezcal Best brandy Best tequila If you have any questions or suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. For information on alcohol guidelines, read our guide to drinking responsibly
White rum, aged for a shorter time than dark rum, is essential to piña coladas and mojitos. Read our expert review of the best bottles to buy, including brands such as Montanya Platino and Bacardi.
Rum is one of the most ubiquitous and versatile spirits in the world. We’ve been enjoying this sugarcane-based booze for centuries, and you'll find it in bars across the world either poured over ice in a short glass or at the base of a refreshing cocktail. The story of rum is an uncomfortable one. Common consensus says that it was born when slaves in the Caribbean and Americas started to ferment molasses, a 'waste' product from the sugarcane industry. The spirit eventually became mainstream and it was common practice for a sugar plantation to distill its own rum. Naturally, rum became a staple of naval life. Up until the mid-20th century, the British Royal Navy served each sailor a ration of rum a day. Over the years the spirit also became inextricable from pirate lore. Best white rums at a glance Best overproof white rum: Sunset Very Strong rum, £47.71 Best white rum from a female-owned distillery: Montanya Platino white rum, £35.75 Best Bacardi rum: Bacardi Facundo NEO white rum, £55.50 Best Venezuelan white rum: Diplomático Planas white rum, £28.99 Best Scottish white rum: Ninefold Pure single rum, £38.34 Best English white rum: Cape Cornwall white rum, £32.49 Best white rum for a Piña Colada: Chairman's Reserve white label rum, £23.95 Best white rum for sweet palates: El Dorado 3 year old white rum, £26.25 Best white rum for sipping: Real McCoy 3 year old white rum, £41.75 Best eco-friendly white rum: Copalli white rum, £35.50 Best white rum to buy 2024 Sunset Very Strong rum (84.5% ABV) Available from Master of Malt (£47.71), VIP Bottles (£48.99) Best overproof white rum Clocking in at an imposing 84.5% ABV, this may be a step too far for some. But if you're willing to take a leap of faith then you’ll be handsomely rewarded. This is a rum packed with as much flavour as alcohol. Just the right amount of water and a big squeeze of lime will give you a vanilla and raisin-laced tumbler of refreshment. Read our full Sunset Very Strong rum review. Available from: Master of Malt (£47.71) VIP Bottles (£48.99) Montanya Platino white rum (40% ABV) Available from Master of Malt (£34.95), Spirits Kiosk (£34.95), The Whisky Exchange (£35.75) Best white rum from a female-owned distillery Montanya Platino is proud to be from a female-founded, -owned and -operated distillery in Colorado. An early mover in the craft spirits game, this distillery has nailed the art of making rum – its white expression is a particular favourite, bursting with baking spices and a dry nuttiness. We loved it in Montanya’s Sonic Rum cocktail, where a combo of tonic and soda helps open up the complex flavours of the rum without diluting them too much. Read our full Montanya Platino review. Latest Deals Bacardi Facundo NEO white rum (40% ABV) Available from The Bottle Club (£54.99), Amazon (£55.49), Master of Malt (£55.49), The Whisky Exchange (£55.50), Drinkmonger (£62.95) Best Bacardi rum The most successful rum brand on the planet pays tribute to its founder with this premium edition rum. Don Facundo kicked things off in Cuba centuries ago and his legacy is paid homage to with this sophisticated and refreshing palate of creamy vanilla and custard along with tropical fruits and pepper. Pour over ice and raise your glass to The Don. Read our full Bacardi Facundo NEO white rum review. Latest Deals Diplomático Planas white rum (47% ABV) Available from VIP Bottles (£28.99), Amazon (£29.95), Amathus Drinks (£32.70), Master of Malt (£33.05) Best Venezuelan white rum Diplomático produces world-beating spirits from the foot of the Andes Mountains. This white rum highlights everything we love about the distillery – it's a complex spirit, sweet and spicy, with mingling caramel, chilli and ground nut notes. Try it in a martini with dry vermouth. Read our full Diplomático Planas white rum review. Latest Deals Ninefold pure single rum (40% ABV) Available from Master of Malt (£33.52) Best Scottish white rum A modern rum from an ancient estate in the south of Scotland. This unlikely delight is un-aged and packed full of big, sharp flavours such as ginger and tart citrus but there’s also plenty of smooth, chewy caramel. Put this at the base of a warm rum punch to dispel any sniffles – think of it as a pirate’s hot toddy. Read our full Ninefold pure single rum review. Available from: Master of Malt (£33.52) Cape Cornwall white rum (40% ABV) Available from Master of Malt (£32.49), Amazon (£36.99) Best English white rum This spirit takes its inspiration from the smugglers of old and pays tribute to such a heritage by mixing Caribbean rum with Cornish water, making it as unique as it is delicious. Cape Cornwall white rum delivers on everything you're looking for, with tropical fruits met by burnt brown sugar and fresh earthy flavours. Ideal for the base of daiquiri, or equally delicious served with ginger beer. Read our full Cape Cornwall white rum review. Latest Deals Chairman’s Reserve White Label rum (43% ABV) Available from Master of Malt (£23.95), Drink Supermarket (£26.99), The Whisky Exchange (£29.50) Best white rum for a Piña Colada This is a St Lucian delight from an adored distillery. The rum is aged like the rest of the Chairman’s Reserve line, but it's filtered to remove the colour, resulting in a white rum packed with bold citrus and punchy pepper notes. Marry those citrus flavours with creamy coconut in an ice-cold piña colada. Read our full Chairman’s Reserve White Label rum review. Latest Deals El Dorado 3 Year Old white rum (40% ABV) Available from Master of Malt (£25.49), The Whisky Exchange (£26.25), Amazon (£28.27) Best white rum for sweet palates El Dorado was once a mythical kingdom made of gold. Now, it's a mythically good rum. This Demerara rum is the flag bearer for the Guyanese industry, once numbering hundreds of operations, but now consolidated into the prolific Diamond Distillery. This sugary, nutty spirit is unbeatable at its price point and is perfect in a daiquiri. Read our full El Dorado 3 Year Old white rum review. Latest Deals Real McCoy 3 Year Old white rum (40% ABV) Available from Spirits Kiosk (£33.95), Amazon (£41.75), Drinkmonger (£43.75) Best white rum for sipping This rum celebrates the legacy of a man who gave us the saying ‘the real McCoy’ – a legendary figure who refused to dilute his spirits. This modern day tribute to Bill McCoy is made with no additives; just pure, unadulterated, top-notch rum. The Real McCoy 3 Year Old comes packed with chocolate, coconut and scorches of pepper. It goes incredibly well in a Bloody Mary. Read our full Real McCoy 3 Year Old white rum review. Latest Deals Copalli white rum (42% ABV) Available from The Whisky Exchange (£35.50) Best eco-friendly white rum Rainforest rum from a picturesque landscape in Belize. As clean and tasty as they come, this eco-friendly rum draws inspiration from ancient local traditions. An incredibly fresh, even grassy rum, the hints of mint and citrus in the background make this the perfect choice for a mojito. Read our full Copalli white rum review. Latest Deals What's the difference between white and dark rum? There are plenty of rum varieties, differentiated based on colour, strength and spice. You’re more likely to sip a dark rum and mix a white rum. This is due to the methods of maturation. A white rum is typically aged for a shorter time and in steel tanks, while dark rums are usually aged for longer in oak barrels, which impart more mellow and chewable flavours. There are exceptions to the rule, of course – some white rums are aged in barrels and then filtered to remove the signature golden colour. Whether you like them young and sharp or old and mellow, we’ve narrowed down the best white rums on the market today. More on white rum... Mojito cake How to make piña colada Best ever rum cocktail recipes White rum cocktails Mojito – glossary Rum – glossary Are you a fan of white rum? Share your product suggestions with us below... 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