Whisky ranking – a roundup of the 15 best whiskies!

Whisky has long ceased to be a drink reserved for an elite circle of connoisseurs. Its popularity is growing worldwide, and the whisky ranking is a topic that attracts both beginners and more seasoned enthusiasts. But before we dive into the world of single malts, peaty notes, and sherry casks, it’s worth pausing for a moment to answer a simple question: what’s behind this surge of interest?

Whisky on a global scale – how did it all begin?

Just 15–20 years ago, store shelves were dominated by simple blended brands—easily available, uncomplicated, offering a basic range of flavors. Today, the situation is completely different.

Why is whisky becoming an increasingly popular spirit?

People are increasingly reaching for whisky because it’s a spirit with history, character, and depth. It offers something that wines or vodka often lack—a richness of experience. And that’s what draws people in.

What can you do with whisky?

• analyze – exploring the aroma, color, finish, and flavor;
• collect – especially limited editions from renowned distilleries;
• to savor – during gatherings, tastings, or quiet evenings alone with a good book.

Over time, people are becoming more aware that whisky is more than just johnnie walker from the supermarket. Questions arise about oak, vanilla, smokiness, and even the origin of the barrels—were they previously used for bourbon, sherry, or perhaps oloroso?

A few words about the price of whisky

You often hear questions like: “Does whisky under 150 PLN make sense?”, “Is a ranking of whiskies under 100 PLN just marketing?” or “Is it worth paying extra for a whisky under 300 PLN or even under 500 PLN?”

The answer depends on what you’re looking for. However, keep in mind that price doesn’t always reflect quality. There are some very reliable options in the lower price ranges—perfect for getting started.

Examples of good whiskies:

1. Whisky ranking under 100 PLN – dominated by blended whiskies with a smooth flavor profile, often featuring caramel notes and a short finish.
2. Whisky ranking under 200 PLN – you’ll find the first single malts here, often matured in bourbon casks, offering more intriguing aromas and a more pronounced malty character.
3. Whisky ranking up to 300 PLN – this is where you enter the world of more sophisticated spirits, with oak notes, smoky accents, or dried plum.
4. Whisky ranking up to 500 PLN and above – here you’ll often find peated single malts, smoky whiskies, complex and intense, perfect for slow sipping.
5. Whisky ranking up to 1000 PLN – a category aimed more at enthusiasts and collectors than everyday tasters. Here you’ll find not only Ardbeg 10, Laphroaig, but also limited editions from unique oloroso sherry casks.

Whisky ranking – [TOP 15] whiskies for 100, 150, 200, 300 and 500 PLN!

Here is a whisky ranking featuring the TOP 15 bottles across various price ranges – from whisky under 100 PLN, through 150 PLN, 200 PLN, up to 300 and 500 PLN. This list was created with different tastes and experience levels in mind – you’ll find both timeless classics and less obvious picks here.

Whisky ranking under 100 PLN

Whisky under 100 PLN is most often chosen by beginners, as a last-minute gift, or for cocktails. Is it possible to find something decent at this price? Surprisingly—yes.

The ranking in this price category is mainly a battle between popularity and quality. Here you’ll find whisky that’s straightforward in taste, yet unpretentious. If you’re looking for excitement—this isn’t the place. But for mixing, as a starting point, or as a gift—absolutely.

1. Ballantine’s Finest

One of the most popular choices among blended whisky. Light and sweet, with a caramel and vanilla profile. Perfect on the rocks or in a cocktail. A great option as a gift for a woman.

2. Grant’s Triple Wood

Triple-matured: in bourbon casks, fresh oak, and sherry – it may not be an investment in gold, but for this price, the profile is surprisingly complex – nutty, honeyed, with a hint of spice. Simple, yet honest.

3. William Lawson’s

A bit smokier, with a hint of peat – yet still smooth and approachable. If you’re just starting out and looking for an alternative to the usual brands, it’s definitely worth a try.

Whisky ranking under 150 PLN – your first step towards quality

This is where you start to see bottles that you can enjoy neat – no ice, no cola. Still mostly blended, but with a more complex character.

This category already features distinct flavor profiles—oak, caramel, nut, and sometimes smoke. Some options are perfect for slow sipping, enjoyed neat.

4. Johnnie Walker Black Label

12 years of aging, distinct smoky notes, a hint of sherry, a delicate finish with dried plum. This is a legendary whisky and one of the best-selling in the world.

5. Famous Grouse Smoky Black

This version has more peat than the classic one. Perfect for those who want to gently enter the world of peated whisky, but aren’t quite ready for Islay yet.

6. Bushmills Black Bush

Here we have an Irish player – very pleasant, well-balanced, partially matured in sherry casks. Smooth, with a fruity note.

Whisky ranking under 200 PLN – single malts make an appearance

Whisky up to 200 PLN is where the market starts to get truly interesting. This is where you’ll find the first single malts, malt whiskies, longer aging periods, and the influence of various casks. They can make a great gift for passing the bar exam.

In this segment, the quality of the distillate, the aging technique, and the influence of the barrel are crucial. This is where the excitement begins.

7. Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve

A very approachable Scotch from the Speyside region – smooth, with notes of pear, vanilla, and an oaky finish. Perfect for starting your adventure with single malt. A great choice as a corporate anniversary gift.

8. Aberfeldy 12 YO

Single malt with a smooth, honeyed profile. Aged in bourbon and sherry casks, ensuring a perfect balance between sweetness and spice.

9. Monkey Shoulder

It’s an intriguing hybrid – a blended malt, meaning a mix of only single malts. Fruity, creamy, and highly versatile. Perfect as an introduction to the world of Scottish malts.

Whisky ranking up to 300 PLN – mid-range bottles with high ambitions

This is a segment where you’ll find truly exceptional bottles. More complex, sometimes peaty, often with an intriguing story or origin. If you’re wondering what to give as a 40th birthday gift – here’s your answer!

In this price range, you’ll find whiskies that will satisfy both beginners and more discerning whisky enthusiasts.

10. Aberlour 12

Matured in sherry casks, which gives it a distinctly malty character with notes of chocolate, dried cherry, and warm spices. Long, oily finish.

11. Laphroaig 10

A classic peat. Very distinctive, smoky, with a slightly medicinal note. You’ll either love it or hate it—there’s no middle ground. Thanks to its aesthetic appearance, this whisky can also serve as a living room decoration.

12. Glenfiddich 12

One of the world’s most renowned single malt whiskies. A balance of fruity aroma, malty base, and a light finish. Perfect for those seeking more than just the basics.

Whisky ranking up to 500 PLN – unforgettable quality

Here begins whisky for those seeking an extraordinary experience. Spirits often from limited editions, aged for up to several years, with a rich flavor profile.

Aging time, wood quality, barrel selection – here, every detail matters.

13. Ardbeg 10

An icon of the Islay region. Heavy, peaty, smoky, with a distinct finish. Not for everyone, but once you fall for this style, you’re hooked. The perfect gift option for the man who has everything.

14. Caol Ila 12

More subtle than Ardbeg, yet still peaty, with a distinct salinity and a fruity note. Exceptionally well-balanced, worth every penny.

15. Nikka from the Barrel

A Japanese blend with a unique structure—full of vanilla, spices, citrus, and floral notes. The high alcohol content (51.4%) doesn’t overpower but rather enhances the flavor.

What is the difference between peated and unpeated whisky?

Peated whisky has a very distinctive, smoky aroma and flavor. The smoke is created during the drying of barley with peat—a layer of organic soil composed of decaying vegetation. Burning peat produces an effect often described as “medicinal,” “salty,” or even “hospital-like.” While this may not sound appetizing, fans of this style can’t imagine drinking any other kind of whisky.

In the Islay region, the most peated spirits in the world are produced – for example, Ardbeg 10, Laphroaig 10, Caol Ila 12. Meanwhile, in Speyside, the fruity style dominates, with distinct notes of vanilla and honey, and peat is virtually absent.

How can you tell if a whisky is peated?

Before you spend your money, there are a few things you can check on the label:

• if you see words like “peated,” “smoky,” or “Islay,” you’re dealing with a peated whisky;
• the absence of these terms usually indicates a pure single malt – with a more fruity, malty, or caramel profile.

Discover the differences between specific types of whisky:

What does “matured in oloroso sherry casks” mean?

If you’ve ever wondered why some whiskies taste like raisins, candied fruit, or even chocolate, the answer lies in oloroso sherry casks. This Spanish fortified wine is intensely aromatic and sweet, and after it has served its purpose, it imparts some of its unique characteristics to the barrels.

When the whisky is placed there afterwards, the effect is clearly noticeable:

• whisky takes on a darker color – ranging from amber to copper;
• the aroma is intense – dried fruits , cinnamon , caramel ;
• The finish is longer, smoother, and more pronounced.

You can find such bottles, for example, in the Aberlour 12, GlenDronach 12, and sometimes also in special editions of Chivas Regal.

How to read a whisky label?

You can find more information on the label than you might think.

Key elements:

• Single malt – whisky from a single distillery, made exclusively from malted barley;
• Blended whisky – a blend of various distillates, both from grains and barley;
• Age statement (e.g. 12 YO) – information about the age of the youngest whisky in the bottle;
• Cask strength – whisky bottled at barrel strength, without dilution with water;
• Non chill filtered – no chill filtration, which means a fuller flavor and richer texture.

This information helps you understand what you’re buying, but also lets you anticipate the taste and style of the whisky – without opening the bottle.

When is it worth reaching for Japanese whisky?

Japanese whisky is now a symbol of finesse and harmony. It stands out for its delicacy, meticulous production, and exceptionally well-balanced flavor. If classic Scotch feels too intense and peaty notes overwhelming, Japan is the answer.

In the up to 500 PLN range, it’s worth trying:

• Nikka from the Barrel – intense yet well-balanced, with a strong, slightly spicy finish;
• Suntory Toki – smooth and floral, with subtle citrus notes and a hint of oak.

You can also reach for Japanese whisky when you’re not sure what to buy a newlywed couple instead of flowers – seriously!

Whisky ranking – summary

Creating a whisky ranking isn’t just about listing the best bottles in a given price range. It’s a story of flavor, style, history, drinking culture, and personal choices. Because whisky—whether it’s single malt, blended malt, or peated whisky from Islay—is a language that speaks of pleasure, passion, and time. If you’re just starting out, experiment, ask questions, compare. And if you already have your favorite notes, share them, educate others, savor consciously.

Below you’ll find a selection of the finest whiskies:

And finally, to get a sense of global trends, discover the differences between specific types of whisky: