5 Irresistible Whisky Liqueurs to Try

Although whisky liqueur starts with whisky as its base, it’s not the same as the neat whisky enthusiasts often reach for. Still, with the holidays around the corner, a liqueur can really hit the spot! Here are 5 great whisky liqueur picks.

Where whiskies are made by fermenting a mash of grains, distilling it, and then aging it for years in oak casks, whisky liqueur gets additional ingredients. Think sugar, honey, spices, cream, or flavorings.

On top of that, the alcohol content is entirely different. Whisky is bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV, while liqueurs aren’t. Those usually sit between 15 and 30 percent.

This liqueur is made with malt from Old Pulteney, a famous Scottish whisky brand. Expect a flavor that’s much milder and softer than the Old Pulteney whiskies you might be used to.

The whisky base brings a subtle grain character. Look for hints of malt, gentle spices, and a cereal-like profile, but sweeter and smoother. Ideal as an introduction for malt-whisky lovers who want something lighter.

This liqueur blends whisky with the sweetness of maple syrup and a refined Canadian touch. The result is a smooth, sweet liqueur with notes of caramel, maple, and smoky or woody undertones. It’s delicious neat, over ice, or in a decadent dessert.

This liqueur is a lovely twist on the Arran whisky base you might already know. It’s creamy and silky-smooth, with sweet notes of vanilla and milk. Thanks to its texture and gentle alcohol, it’s a great choice as a digestif, in coffee, or as a cozy way to end a meal.

This liqueur comes from a distillery renowned for traditional malt. It strikes a beautiful balance between the distinctive character of whisky and the soft sweetness of a liqueur.

A great option for whisky lovers looking to try something different. The flavor is just a touch creamier and more approachable than Edradour’s whiskies.

Finally, we can’t skip a homegrown liqueur. This is a smooth, artisanal Dutch liqueur made by Zuidam Distillers. What you’ll taste is a lovely balance of honey, spices, and single malt whisky.

On the nose, it opens with warm aromas of honey, malt, and toffee, joined by notes of brown sugar and subtle floral accents. Trust us: this is one to try. It’s not so much an angel dancing on your tongue as a little honeybee!

A whisky liqueur may not be whisky, but it’s easy to forget that established distilleries also create other beautiful spirits. If you know someone who finds whisky’s alcohol content a bit much, this is a great alternative. And who knows, they might just be tempted to try the “real stuff” afterward. Win-win, right?

So there’s nothing wrong with taking a small step back as a connoisseur now and then, pour something tasty over ice, or sneak a splash into a delicious dessert. Above all, enjoy! These bottles make wonderful Christmas gifts.