Father's Day is approaching, and finding a quality whisky without breaking the bank is easier than ever. Supermarket shelves now stock impressive bottles at affordable prices, thanks to the growing popularity of whisky and improved offerings from retailers. Industry experts have shared their top picks for the best supermarket whiskies to gift this year.
Billy Abbott, author of A Philosophy of Whisky, notes that great whisky is available at almost every price point. Aldi and Lidl have both received awards for their own-label expressions, proving that affordable options can rival premium bottles. The rise of cocktail culture, particularly among younger drinkers, has driven supermarkets to raise their game.
Joanne Gould, a food and drink journalist, recommends the 12-year-old single malt from a well-known supermarket brand, describing it as 'approachably smooth and silky with lots of stone fruit and sweetness'. She suggests pairing it with gingery mixers for a refreshing drink.
Jonathan Hatchman, a whisky expert, praises Laphroaig 10-year-old as an 'exemplary Islay single malt with unapologetically bold character', featuring medicinal peat smoke and iodine. He highlights its consistency and maturity, making it a reliable choice for peat lovers.
For those seeking a smoky Islay whisky, Gould points to Smokehead Islay Single Malt, available at Morrisons. She describes it as 'uber-peaty and woody' with a slight sherried style, ideal for autumn evenings.
Aidy Smith, presenter of The Three Drinkers, recommends a small-batch English whisky inspired by American styles, crafted in Blackpool. It offers vibrant notes of orange marmalade, vanilla, and cinnamon, and is triple-distilled in ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and virgin oak casks. Priced at £26, it drops to £18 with a Nectar card.
Hatchman also highlights Michter's US 1 as a favourite distillery, producing excellent bourbon and rye. Whether you prefer smooth blends, peated single malts, or sweet bourbon, there is a supermarket whisky to suit every dad's taste.
