2025 proved a landmark year for whisky enthusiasts, a vibrant tapestry woven with prestigious festivals and the arrival of truly exceptional releases. Five expressions, in particular, captivated the industry and left a lasting impact – and I’m still hunting for bottles of each.
Spirit of Yorkshire Orange Wine Barrique Finish (2025)
This remarkable whisky, priced around £90, immediately impressed with its bright, confident character. Citrus notes danced alongside subtle malt and a rich brown sugar backbone, accented by hints of stewed fruit. Produced in a limited run of just 1,100 bottles, its unique profile – informed by a wine barrique finish – secured its place as a standout.
Strathmill 12 Year Old SMWS 100.46 “Strawberry Pop Tarts” (2025)
Secured at the Seven Hills Whisky Festival thanks to Phil Dwyer’s discerning eye, the Strathmill 12 SMWS 100.46 was an immediate showstopper. Described as instantly expressive, it delivered a complex layering of flavors: strawberry jam, nutty and malty notes reminiscent of Ovaltine, warm honey, brown sugar, and dried fruits. Bottled by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society after triple distillation in ex-bourbon wood casks, it epitomized the Society’s approach to showcasing unexpected pairings.
Eagle Rare 17 Year Old (Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2025)
The launch at The Savoy showcased a truly exceptional age statement. The Eagle Rare 17 Year Old, matured in new charred American oak, revealed a delightful blend of ripe cherry and macerated strawberries, interwoven with leather, vanilla, and a subtle cream soda note. This nearly two-decade maturation was a testament to Buffalo Trace’s dedication to quality.
The Sexton 11 Year Old Irish Single Malt Whiskey (2025)
Acquired at The Whiskey Jar with the OurWhisky Foundation, The Sexton 11 Year Old offered approachable elegance. Its easy-drinking character was built on nutty and malty notes – like Ovaltine – alongside warm honey, brown sugar, and dried fruits. Crafted using triple distillation in copper pot stills and aged in Oloroso sherry-seasoned French oak casks, it delivered a distinctly Irish expression at 43% ABV.
Fettercairn Vanguard 29 Year Old (2025)
Released in a remarkably limited run of just 99 bottles, the Fettercairn Vanguard 29 Year Old was a masterclass in restrained complexity. It presented stewed and dried strawberries, cream, pineapple, and apricot alongside oak spice and freshly baked pastry, finishing with a delicate note of dark chocolate. Fettercairn’s unique cooling ring distillation process, encouraging high reflux, undoubtedly contributed to its nuanced character.
