This special vatting (pronounced ‘Oog-a-dal’) combines Ardbeg’s traditional deep, smoky notes with luscious, raisiny tones of ex-Sherry casks. This expression was voted by the 120,000+ strong Ardbeg Committee as their favorite from the maker.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Fruit, Honey, Malt, Peat, Smoked Barley | ABV: 54.2%

2. Bowmore 15

Matured first in bourbon barrels then in Oloroso casks, Bowmore’s 15-year-old Scotch is a fine example of a sherry cask finish whisky. The final three years spent in Oloroso sherry casks give Bowmore 15 its rich, deep color and robust warming finish.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Palate: Woody, Pine, Toffee, Malt, Smoke | ABV: 43%

3. Kilchoman Machir Bay

Machir Bay, Kilchoman’s signature peated single malt, is a vatting of Kilchoman matured in both bourbon and sherry casks. Named after Islay’s most spectacular beach, the high proportion of bourbon barrels creates a distinct balance of classic Islay character and fresh floral complexity. 

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Palate: Tropical Fruit, Dried Raisin, Smoke | ABV: 46%

4. Lagavulin 16

Discover the distinct flavors of the islands of Scotland with Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky. This 86-proof whisky has the intense, full-bodied flavor reminiscent of a driftwood fire at dusk. The taste of dry peat smoke with strong maritime notes results in a complex dram complemented by a long, elegant finish.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Palate: Malt, Sherry, Fruit, Peat, Oak | ABV: 43%

5. Port Charlotte 10

Port Charlotte's 10-year-old is conceived, distilled, matured, and bottled only on Islay. Made from 100% Scottish barley, it’s trickle-distilled through tall, narrow-necked stills for a balanced, heathery style of barbeque smoke.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Oak, Smoke, Sea Salt, Custard, Cream, Grape | ABV: 50%

6. Bunnahabhain 12

Bunnahabhain’s 12-year Islay single malt Scotch was the beginning of the brand’s core range. Non-chill filtered and natural in color, this expression lets you taste the origins of Bunnahabhain with an alluring balance of sweet fruit, nuts, and vanilla, along with a delicate coastal influence.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Sherry, Nut, Malt, Sultana | ABV: 46.3%

7. Cao ila 12

Caol Ila 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky comes with a rich yet subdued, citric fruitiness. With a sweet start, the whisky ends with a lengthy, slightly sour finish. Perfect on its own or mixed in a cocktail, this award-winning whisky is best enjoyed when served neat in a rocks glass, adding ice or a splash of water for taste.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Tar, Smoke, Cooked Fruit | ABV: 43%

8. Laphroaig 10

Laphroaig 10 Year Old is aged for ten years and distilled following the traditions laid down over the last 200 years by a succession of passionate and skilled master distillers. This is a truly classic single malt Scotch, made from malted barley which is first cold-smoked and then dried over a peat fire.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Seaweed, Vanilla, Cream, Oak, Spices | ABV: 43%

9. Bruichladdich Classic Laddie

This signature bottling and the definitive Bruichladdich Scotch showcases the brand’s classic, floral, elegant house style, The Classic Laddie is made from 100% Scottish barley, trickle-distilled, non-chill filtered, and free of coloring.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Apples, Grapes, Cinnamon, Brown Sugar | ABV: 50%

10. Compass Box The Peat Monster

In 2019, Compass Box created a new label for The Peat Monster and its evolved recipe, in honor of its 10th anniversary limited release. All batches of The Peat Monster released since 2019 now feature this specially commissioned artwork.

Region: Islay | Tasting Notes: Peat, Oak, Floral, Bacon, Papaya | ABV: 46%