Forget the notion that exceptional whisky requires a princely sum. A new wave of expertly curated supermarket spirits is challenging premium brands, offering remarkable quality at a fraction of the price. We've consulted spirits experts to bring you the definitive list of the best value whiskies lining UK supermarket shelves right now.
The Ultimate Supermarket Whisky Hall of Fame
Gone are the days when supermarket aisles were a last resort for whisky lovers. Today, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco are collaborating with renowned distilleries to create exclusive bottlings that rival their expensive counterparts.
1. Aldi's Highland Black 8 Year Old
Price: Around £13.49
Why experts love it: This consistent award-winner offers notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of spice. It's frequently praised as one of the best value single malts available anywhere, proving age statements needn't break the bank.
2. Lidl's Queen Margot Scotch Whisky
Price: Approximately £14.99
Why experts love it: A smooth, approachable blended Scotch that delivers well above its price point. Perfect for cocktails or enjoying neat, it's become a staple for savvy whisky drinkers.
3. Tesco Finest Speyside Single Malt
Price: Around £20
Why experts love it: Aged for 10 years, this Speyside malt offers classic notes of orchard fruits, honey, and a gentle oakiness. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with malts costing twice as much.
What Makes These Whiskies Special?
Supermarket own-label whiskies often come from the same respected distilleries that produce famous brands. The savings come from cutting out the marketing costs and prestigious packaging, allowing the quality of the spirit itself to shine through.
Many of these bottlings have beaten established luxury brands in blind tastings, demonstrating that price doesn't always correlate with quality when it comes to whisky.
How to Choose Your Perfect Supermarket Whisky
- For beginners: Start with a smooth blended Scotch or a gentle Speyside single malt
- For peat lovers: Look for Islay single malts – several supermarkets offer excellent options
- For cocktails: A good blended whisky will work perfectly in whisky sours or Old Fashioneds
- For sipping neat: Explore aged single malts or small-batch offerings
The message from experts is clear: some of the best whisky values today aren't found in specialist shops but in your local supermarket. With quality improving every year, there's never been a better time to explore these surprisingly sophisticated spirits.
