As prices for rare and collectible bottles soar, whisky enthusiasts across the UK are increasingly turning to supermarket aisles to discover their next favourite dram. A significant market shift is seeing drinkers prioritise value and quality over prestige, with younger generations embracing whisky through cocktails and social media.
The Democratisation of Whisky: From Luxury to Everyday Enjoyment
Historically viewed as a working-class staple before becoming an upper-class luxury, whisky has undergone a remarkable transformation. For over a century, it was often seen as a stodgy "old man's drink." Today, however, it's more popular than ever with millennials and Gen Z, driven by cocktail culture, online influence, and the rising availability of high-quality, affordable whisky.
"You can find great whisky available at almost every price point," confirms Billy Abbott, author of A Philosophy of Whisky. "While more affordable whiskies will often not have the bells and whistles of more expensive bottles, you can find great quality wherever you look." This trend is evidenced by supermarket success stories; three of Aldi's whiskies have been ranked among the world's best, while Lidl has previously won gold at the World Whisky Awards.
Expert-Recommended Supermarket Whiskies for Your Cabinet
Our panel of spirits experts – including journalist Joanne Gould, reviewer Jonathan Hatchman, and TV presenter Aidy Smith – have handpicked seven standout bottles available from UK supermarkets and online retailers. The selection spans styles from peaty Islay single malts to smooth Irish whiskey and sweet American bourbon.
Top Value Pick: Bankhall Single Malt
Crafted in Blackpool but inspired by American styles, this bold, youthful whisky is triple-distilled and aged for just over three years in charred virgin oak. Aidy Smith notes vibrant notes of orange marmalade, vanilla, and dark chocolate. Typically £25 at Sainsbury's, it drops to £18 with a Nectar card.
Silky Sophistication: Glenmorangie The Original 12 Years Old
Joanne Gould recommends this approachably smooth single malt, praising its stone fruit and sweetness. It's currently on offer at Waitrose for £30 (down from £41), making it exceptional value. Gould suggests enjoying it neat as a nightcap or with gingery mixers.
Peaty Powerhouse: Laphroaig 10 Year Old
A staple for expert Jonathan Hatchman, this exemplary Islay single malt offers an unapologetically bold character of medicinal peat smoke and iodine. Hatchman highlights its consistency and complex finish. Find it at Waitrose Cellar for £29.
Ultra-Smoky Choice: Smokeshead Islay Single Malt
For those who love intense peat, Gould points to this uber-peaty, woody whisky with a slight sherried style, available at Morrisons for £41. She describes it as "not for the fainthearted."
Benchmark Bourbon: Michter's Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Hatchman's favourite from a revered distillery, this bourbon is an absolute benchmark of the style, featuring gorgeous vanilla, corn, and caramel notes. At 45.7% ABV, he recommends drinking it neat or with minimal ice. It's available on Amazon for £64.
Overlooked Irish Gem: Redbreast 12-Year-Old
Often overshadowed by its older siblings, this Irish whiskey is matured in American oak and Oloroso sherry butts. Hatchman praises its bold baking spice character and buttery finish. It retains the signature smoothness of Irish whiskey and costs £64 at Waitrose.
Award-Winning Bourbon: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Crafted at one of America's oldest distilleries, this bourbon delights with a complex nose of vanilla, mint, and molasses. Aidy Smith notes its harmonious palate of brown sugar and spice, making it perfect for an Old Fashioned. It's a multi-award winner and costs £27 at Tesco.
Navigating the World of Affordable Whisky
The world of whisky is broadly divided into five key styles: Scotch, Irish, American, Canadian, and Japanese. Within these are further variations like single malts, blends, cask strength, and peated expressions. While blended and Irish whiskeys are known for their smooth, broad appeal, American bourbon has seen a particular surge in popularity recently, its sweeter profile acting as a gateway for new drinkers.
Whether you're exploring the herbaceous notes of a Bankhall Single Malt for under £30 or the rich complexity of a Michter's bourbon, the message from experts is clear: exceptional whisky is no longer confined to specialist shops or eye-watering price tags. The supermarket shelf now holds a world of flavour waiting to be discovered.
