Top 10 Best Single Malt Whisky

For whisky enthusiasts, few things compare to the refined complexity of a well-crafted single malt. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, selecting the right bottle can be a deeply personal yet rewarding experience. 

To help guide your journey, we’ve curated a list of what we think are the top 10 best single malt whiskies. These bottles represent the finest in craftsmanship, heritage and global acclaim.

1. Glenallachie 12 Year Old Speyside Single Malt Whisky

Glenallachie, founded in 1967, is located near Aberlour in the heart of Speyside, Scotland’s most prolific whisky region. The whisky itself is known for its sherry-matured expressions, rich mouthfeel and balance of fruit, spice and oak.

Glenallachie 12-Year-Old Speyside Whisky is rich, approachable and layered, and showcases the distillery’s sherried style with elegance. 

Voted World’s Best Single Malt Whisky of 2025 in the World Whiskies Awards, this exceptional dram is a testament to outstanding craftsmanship and global acclaim. It deserves a place in every serious collection.

Price: £54.99

2. Glenlivet 18-Year-Old Speyside Malt Whisky 

Founded in 1824 by George Smith, The Glenlivet was the first legal distillery in its region and remains one of Scotland’s most iconic single malt whisky brands. 

This elegant pre-2004 edition, presented in its original dark green bottle and box, captures the brand’s classic style before its modern rebrand. A rare find and a refined addition to any serious whisky collection.

Price: £149.99

3. Balvenie 12-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch DoubleWood

This whisky is a beloved single malt from one of Scotland’s most traditional distilleries. Based in Banffshire, Balvenie is the only distillery that still grows its own barley. It uses traditional floor maltings and employs in-house coopers and coppersmiths. Balvenie is a true symbol of craftsmanship.

For those who favour a sweeter whisky, the second maturation in a fresh sherry cask provides an ideal finish.

Price: £48.99

4. Aberfeldy 18-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The Aberfeldy Distillery was established in 1896 by John Dewar & Sons to supply whisky for their blended Scotch labels. Today, it remains under the same company’s ownership, now part of Bacardi Limited’s Scotch whisky division. 

This limited-edition release combines Aberfeldy's signature honey richness with bold wine-cask complexity, adding depth and elegance. A rare and expressive whisky ideal for collectors and adventurous palates alike.

Price: £129.99

5. Aberlour 10-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky

Abelour, founded in 1879 by James Fleming, is well known for its accessible age-stated whiskies. It also has a reputation for combining classic Speyside elegance with sherry-cask depth, creating its iconic rich, sherried single malts. 

This sherried whisky is particularly appealing for newcomers or anyone seeking a classic Speyside experience with a touch of nostalgia.

Price: £109.99

6. Dalmore 12-Year-Old Highland Scotch Whisky

Founded in 1839 in Scotland, Dalmore Distillery was acquired by Clan Mackenzie descendants in 1867. He introduced the iconic 12-pointed stag emblem - a royal symbol dating back to 1263. Dalmore is renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition. 

This whisky is matured in ex-bourbon casks for nine years, then half is finished in sherry casks for three. It is rich and sweet, perfect for beginners or those with a sweet tooth.

Price: £69.99

7. Laphroaig 10-Year-Old Islay Single Malt Whisky

Laphroaig was founded in 1815 and is renowned worldwide for producing some of the peatiest and most medicinal single malts. The distillery even received a royal warrant from HRH Prince Charles in 1994.

This whisky is a classic expression of the iconic distillery, known for its intense peat smoke taste. This vintage release is highly sought after by collectors and peat lovers alike, due to the 1990s bottles becoming rarer.

Price: £124.99

8. Ardbeg Hypernova Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Ardbeg, founded in 1815, is famed worldwide for producing some of the peatiest, most intensely smoky single malts on Islay. Exclusively launched in October 2022 for Ardbeg Committee members, this whisky is arguably Ardbeg's most heavily peated and potentially the smokiest globally.

This limited, non-age-statement edition features notes of sharp peat smoke, aniseed and toasted lavender, alongside bitter almonds and dark chocolate. 

Price: £169.99

9. Benriach 16-Year-Old Speyside Malt Whisky

Benriach was founded in 1898 and is located near Elgin in Speyside. The distillery is known for combining traditional methods with innovation, including producing both peated and unpeated whiskies.

This whisky is double distilled to create a rich character embodying the maritime characteristics of a coastal whisky. It is then aged for a minimum of 10 years in American oak casks. This smooth whisky is perfect for beginners and whisky lovers alike.

Price: £79.99

10. Talisker Storm Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Talisker, founded in 1830, is the only distillery on the Isle of Skye and is famous for producing powerful, peated single malts with a distinctive maritime character.

Talisker Storm is a no-age statement whisky and is more intense than the 10-year-old. It is matured in American oak casks, delivering bold smoke and spice balanced by creamy sweetness. This whisky is a favourite among lovers of bold Island whiskies.

Price: £43.99

The Best Single Malt Whisky at Lochs of Whisky

Choosing the perfect single malt whisky is a journey of discovery. The rich diversity of styles across Scotland’s regions means there’s something for everyone. From the elegant and refined Glenlivet to the boldly smoky Ardbeg, each whisky on our list offers a unique story and character that reflects its heritage and craftsmanship.

Explore our collection of Single Malt Whiskies today, and feel free to contact us for any recommendations. 

Need help in choosing a specific whisky brand? For expert tips and advice, read our guide Top 10 Best Whisky Brands.