6 Must Try Single Malt Drams

A mix of refinement, elegance, and blue-collar grit are all tied up in the history of single malt whisky — a tradition that began in Scotland but has since spread across the world. While the alcohol market has exploded with thousands of spirits, blends, and other concoctions, the simplicity and sophistication of a traditional tumbler of whisky remain hard to beat. There’s something intimately exceptional about sitting down at home after a long day with a glass (or two) of single malt whisky. Below, we explore what defines this iconic drink and recommend some of the best single malt whiskies on the market today.

What Defines a Single Malt Whisky?

Before diving into recommendations, it's important to clarify a few common misconceptions. First, “scotch” and “whiskey” are not synonymous. Scotch is a type of whisky made in Scotland, typically distilled from malted barley. Bourbon, by contrast, is an American whiskey — usually from Kentucky or Tennessee — and distilled primarily from corn.

When discussing single malt whiskies, we mostly refer to Scotch whiskies made from malted barley. The term “single” indicates that the whisky comes from one distillery and is not blended with other whiskies. While single malts are primarily made from barley, they may include small amounts of other grains — but must still originate from a single distillery to earn the designation.

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1. Lagavulin 16 Year Old

Lagavulin produces one of the finest single malt whiskies on the market. Their 16 Year Old expression earned runner-up in the 2014 TWE Whisky of the Year. It's deep, dry, and boldly smoky — with aromas reminiscent of smoky bacon and subtle citrus notes. Its rich amber hue is equally pleasing. Buy Lagavulin 16 Year Old here.

2. Bowmore 15 Year Old

If you prefer darker spirits, Bowmore's 15 Year Old single malt is a standout. Aged in both bourbon and sherry casks, the final three years in Oloroso sherry casks give it its deep colour and warm finish. Expect rich raisin and dark chocolate aromas balanced with Bowmore’s signature smokiness. Buy Bowmore 15 Year Old here.

3. Highland Park Fire Edition

This 15-year-old Scotch marks a milestone for Highland Park, known for their innovation. The Fire Edition features rich notes of sweet red fruits, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, and oak wood spices, finishing with a hint of damsons. Bottled at 45.2% ABV, it comes in a striking crimson-red bottle. Limited to 28,000 bottles, this was the final release in a trilogy following the Ice Edition. Buy Highland Park Fire Edition here — if it hasn’t sold out.

4. Glen Scotia Double Cask

Glen Scotia’s Double Cask is aged first in bourbon barrels and finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. It delivers a unique blend of spicy fruits, vanilla oak, and a hint of sea spray. Expect initial sweetness — toffee and caramelised sugar — followed by a dry, full-bodied finish. Buy Glen Scotia Double Cask here.

5. Ardbeg Uigeadail

Hard to pronounce but easy to enjoy, Ardbeg Uigeadail was named “World Whisky of the Year” by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible. Its strong raisin notes are mellowed by signature peat smoke, delivering bold complexity. At 54.2% ABV, it’s a potent, rewarding dram. Buy Ardbeg Uigeadail here.

6. Aberlour 12 Year Old

Aberlour’s 12 Year Old Single Malt stands out with its vibrant citrus character and soft, sweet finish. Aged in a double cask process, it offers warm spice and a golden amber hue with ruby highlights. Hints of apple on the nose round out this balanced, elegant Scotch. Buy Aberlour 12 Year Old here.

If you’re looking to elevate your liquor cabinet with sophistication and substance, any of these six single malt Scotch whiskies are exceptional choices.