5 of the best whiskies for Christmas 2025
Halloween’s over - it’s nearly Christmas!!! I know this is an unpopular opinion but I can’t wait for the start of November as it always signals the start of the run in to Christmas. Now, I'm not suggesting putting up your Christmas tree or wrapping presents just yet (and I think I might leave the Christmas playlist for another week or two) but as the nights draw in I do love to think about the best whiskies to enjoy on these long dark evenings. So below I've created what I think is a great shopping guide either for yourself or a loved one this festive season. Enjoy!
The one for most people:
Balvenie Doublewood 12 year old
This bottle is a classic - and for good reason! It featured on my list of top 12 year old whiskies last year and it’s a whisky you can’t really go wrong with - a classic speyside at a reasonable price. I don’t think anyone will be disappointed to find this under the tree or at the bottom of their stocking!
Typically available for less than £50
The one for the elegant upgrade:
Glendronach 15 year old
This is a wonderful bottle of older Speyside whisky. It ain’t cheap but it ain’t half good! At £80 the recipient of this bottle will know you care and they will really enjoy the whisky - perfect for a an evening tipple with a chunk of Christmas pudding!
Typically available for around £80
The one for the flavour-twister:
Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old
One of the most famous distilleries in the world (and a frequent purveyor of gifts) offers this 14 year old dram that is finished in Port casks. A slightly lighter offering than some of the others on this list but a really surprising spirit with orange, marshmallow and dark chocolate all prominent. Ideal if you’re looking for something a little more unpredictable!
Typically available for around £50
The one for the peat aficionado:
Ardbeg Uigeadail
A beloved whisky for anyone looking for a peaty dram this Christmas. The perfect blend between sweet and smoke with a little espresso mixed in for good taste. This may not be one for everyone but if you like your peat, you’ll love this!
Typically available for £70
The one for the special occasion:
“A Good Old-Fashioned Christmas Whisky” 2009 - 16 Year Old
This year’s special release from The Whisky Exchange looks like a corker! The distillery is undisclosed but with tasting notes of rich fruitcake, brandy butter, cinnamon and nutmeg it is bound to be a winner for after Christmas dinner!
Only available from The Whisky Exchange for around £80