The 25 Best Bottles to Buy for Whiskey Lovers in 2023
Whiskey makes for a great gift, there’s no doubt about it. Whether you want to spend $25, $50, or more, any whiskey drinker getting a bottle in their stocking this year will be happy. Lucky for them, today’s selection seems to just keep getting better.
From Kentucky to Japan, incredible whiskeys are getting the attention they deserve right now. Unfortunately, that means some of the most coveted Scotch, bourbon, and other bottles might be a little hard to track down this season.
The good news is that for every Van Winkle you can’t find, there are a dozen great bottles (some even better) that are perfect for the whiskey lover in your life.
We’ve collected 25 incredible bottles for our whiskey gift guide—some new, some rare, some affordable, but all just downright delicious.
Related: 50 Best Whiskeys in the World 2023
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Questions? Reach us at shop@mensjournal.com.
25 Best Whiskey Gifts of 2023
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Booker’s batches are all quality, but we tend to have a favorite every year within the slight variations. Arguably this year’s best, Kentucky Chew, is a loud, mouth-coating sipper the true bourbon lover in your life will appreciate over ice all winter.
2. Michter’s Toasted Barrel Bourbon 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Michter’s has produced one of the finest dessert bourbons in the world with Toasted Barrel. This double barreled whiskey adds marshmallow and vanilla notes on top of typical Michter’s bourbon, which makes this a real treat for just about everyone.
3. The Sexton Irish 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
You may have seen The Sexton on some of our lists in the past. It’s going to keep making appearances, because for the price and the complexity, it’s one of the best Irish whiskeys on the market today. Upgrade someone’s Jameson, or show the bourbon snob what he’s missing across the pond.
4. Laphroaig 28 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Laphroaig is known for heavy peat in its younger core bottlings, but as it gets older we tend to see a gorgeous mellowing of the whisky. This one’s lower proof and wood-and-sweetness forward character keep the smoke in the background, as if you’re sipping the whisky a few yards from a dying fire. It’s an iconic dram for an iconic whiskey lover.
5. Kavalan Distillery Select 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Kavalan is one of those unique, must-try whiskeys from a brilliant Asian distillery. Usually the best bottles are rare (and expensive), but this latest release called Distillery Select is a fantastic multi-purpose whiskey, great for cocktails and an easy sipping experience alike.
It’s on par with Japanese blends in terms of highball perfection, so your friend who loves a good mixed drink will appreciate it.
6. Arran 14 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
For the whisky lover looking to break away from “safe” popular brands, Arran is one of the market’s best hidden gems. We particularly like the 14-year-old Arran, a fruity, toffee-laden treat with an even balance between refinement and youth. Do yourself a favor and give this one to someone who likes to share.
7. Glenrothes Vintage 2004 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
We loved the unusually mature Glenrothes Vintage 2004 when it was released, so if you can find a bottle, it’s still a great gift. It’s an easy, earthy Scotch with surprising sweetness, and it’ll make a great everyday pour for someone who pours like clockwork.
8. Maker’s Holiday Wax 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Maker’s Mark is a gold standard among bourbon lovers, so for the whiskey drinker who loves it, we suggest picking up one of these special holiday double-dip wax bottles. Same great whiskey inside; festive holiday flare on top.
9. Jura 18 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
One of the lesser-known islands, Jura is currently home to one distillery of the same name. The 18-year version released in 2018 is a crazy-affordable, well-matured whisky with a balance of fruit and just a hint of smoke. It’s a perfect addition to any enthusiast’s collection—and probably a new favorite.
10. Lagavulin 12 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Part of the Diageo Special Release Collection, Lagavulin 12 is a limited edition release. It’s younger than the core 16-year bottling, and yet this might be our preferred choice for its relative strength and liveliness. Pick it up for the friend who’s always game to try something new.
11. Ardbeg 22 
Courtesy Image
Why it’s on the list:
Ardbeg 22 is one of the best limited-edition Islay scotches of the year. Its prominent but easy-going peat notes swirl with bright citrus notes from time in American oak casks, and though it’s definitely meant for an experienced peat lover, it’ll make their holiday a hell of a lot better.
