The Global Whisky Renaissance: Exploring 9 Exceptional Bottles

Beverage directors and experienced bartenders share their favorite whiskies from lesser-known whisky-producing countries, showcasing unique selections that elevate the spirits landscape.

Introduction

The whisky map has broadened remarkably, featuring over 40 countries competing in the 2024 World Whisky Awards—double the number from just a decade ago. Distilleries from Sweden to South Africa are crafting distinctive expressions that challenge traditional norms, enticing whisky aficionados to explore further.

Investment in new whisky ventures aligns with this global expansion. For instance, Starward in Australia has drawn attention since 2015, bolstered by financial backing from Distill Ventures—a company known for its commitment to innovative spirits. Denmark’s Stauning Whisky, which debuted in the U.S. last year, continues to garner a loyal following, reflective of the emerging global trends in whisky production.

The allure of world whiskies lies in their capacity to disrupt familiar categories such as bourbon and Scotch. Scott Milne, marketing director for Stauning, notes, > “As more world whiskies enter the U.S. market, they will challenge the dominance of traditional categories by offering distinct alternatives.” This shift suggests that whisky drinkers are eager for diversity, pursuing whiskeys defined by unique geographic and climatic conditions.

The innovative spirit of these distilleries often leads to exciting flavor profiles, as whisky educator Tracie Franklin articulates: > “Not only do we have these unusual countries producing whiskies that are very much attuned to their climate, agriculture, and particular flavors, but we also have amazing whiskies that now have the freedom to be more experimental.”

Discovering Unique Whiskies

SevenFifty Daily surveyed bartenders and seasoned whisky experts to reveal noteworthy bottles worth adding to your collection. Below is a selection of some of the finest world whiskies, complete with their suggested retail prices.

Kavalan Distillery Select No. 1 Single Malt Whisky, Taiwan; $54.99

Selected by Brandon Archilla, beverage director at The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club in Nashville.

Kavalan, Taiwan’s pioneering distillery, opened in 2006 and quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to whisky-making. The diverse Taiwanese climate enables faster maturation in barrels compared to Scotland, leading to richly flavored expressions. Brandon Archilla highlights that, > “Bunches of fruit on the nose… could draw some parallels to a cognac or even a fine, aged rum.” He appreciates its affordability and versatility, noting that it could be enjoyed neat or in cocktails.

Experience the rich flavors of Kavalan.

Stauning Danish Rye Whisky, Denmark; $59.99

Chosen by Aidan Bowie from The Dead Rabbit and The Irish Exit in New York City.

Aidan Bowie hails Stauning’s innovative approach to whisky-making, emphasizing its locally sourced rye and barley. He describes this unique bottling as “intensely spicy and fruit-forward,” with tasting notes that include dark chocolate and leather. Aidan believes it stands out in cocktails due to its complex character.

Stauning showcases the flavors of Denmark.

Abasolo El Whisky de Mexico, Mexico; $40

Recommended by Tracie Franklin.

Hailing from a distillery at an elevation of 7,800 feet, Abasolo employs a 4,000-year-old Mesoamerican cooking method with non-GMO maize. This results in an invitingly buttery flavor profile, making it a notable entry on this list.

Armorik Double Maturation French Single Malt, France; $84.99

Recommended by Jacob Brower, spirits manager at Amanti Vino in Montclair.

Transitioning from plant liqueurs to whisky, The Warenghem Distillery delivers an intriguing double maturation experience that captivates drinkers with its depth and richness.

Unveiling the complexity of Armorik.

Navazos-Palazzi Malt Whisky ‘Bota Punta’, Spain; $125

Endorsed by Neal Bodenheimer of Cure in New Orleans.

This Spanish malt whisky impresses with its unique texture and depth, aged to perfection in quality oloroso sherry casks. Bodenheimer appreciates its rich character, evoking a sense of luxury.

Rampur Select Single Malt Whiskey, India; $125

Chosen by Kal Lemma of The Next Whisky Bar at The Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Utilizing 100% Indian barley, this whiskey matures in bourbon barrels, resulting in a profound flavor profile that surprises with its complexity.

Armorik Single Malt Single Cask Whisky Pineau Des Charentes Cask, France; $69.99

Jessica King, co-owner of Lilou, highlights this single cask expression for its rich layers of fruity and woody aromas, despite its limited availability.

Kavalan Ex-Bourbon Oak Single Malt Whisky, Taiwan; $125

Selected by Kurtis Williams of The Gladly in Phoenix.

Described as smooth and tropical, this whisky exemplifies Taiwan’s growing prominence in the global whisky sphere.

Amrut Indian Single Malt Whiskey, India; $64.99

Praised by Akshay Wagh from J-Bar at Hotel Jerome in Aspen.

As a pioneer in Indian single malts, Amrut is celebrated for its robust flavor and versatility in cocktails.

Conclusion

With a growing collection of exquisite whiskies from around the globe, enthusiasts can delight in exploring new flavors and styles. These unique offerings reflect the artistry and innovative spirit of producers dedicated to pushing the boundaries of whisky-making.

The world of whisky is increasingly becoming a place of discovery, challenging traditional standards and inviting aficionados to taste an ever-expanding array of flavors and experiences.