We’re not diving into full holiday mode just yet, but here at Whisky Marketplace HQ, we're definitely feeling the chill in the air and noticing the early sunsets. Naturally, our minds are drifting to cozy, fireside drams—the kind that warm you up from the inside out.
From the richly spiced Boann PX Finish Single Pot Still and the creamy depth of Penderyn Portwood to the bold, rye-forward character of Inchdairnie Ryelaw and the timeless warmth of Blanton’s Original, each of these whiskies is perfect for savouring as winter settles in. Ready to find your new favourite fireside dram? Read on!
Staff Picks - our choices for this month
Boann PX Finish Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
The Boann PX Finish Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey is a true winter warmer, crafted with a nod to Ireland’s traditional pot still methods while drawing depth from Pedro Ximenez casks sourced from Bodegas Garvey in Jerez. This rich dram offers a cascade of warming spices that unfold like embers, balanced by a decadent dark chocolate richness and a savoury touch reminiscent of cured meats. All of this is wrapped in the comforting, sticky sweetness of dried fruits—perfect for sipping as the world outside grows cold and quiet.
£68.25 at www.thewhiskyexchange.com
Penderyn Portwood
The Penderyn Portwood, now crafted at a warming 46%, is made for cozy evenings. With its rich, creamy texture, this whisky starts its journey in bourbon casks before a final flourish in port barrels, adding layers perfect for a winter's night. On the nose, you’ll find inviting hints of dried fruits, dark chocolate, and a touch of toasty oak. The palate unfolds with smooth cream and honey, lightly spiced for depth. The finish is long and comforting, with whispers of oak and lingering honey sweetness—a perfect companion for the season.
£49.95 at www.abbeywhisky.com
Inchdairnie Ryelaw
Inchdairnie Ryelaw 2017 Single Grain Bot. 2022, made from a bold blend of 53% malted rye and 47% malted barley, brings a lively burst of spiced rye to the palate. Aged in new American oak, it offers aromatic notes of green peppercorns, warm woody spices, and a touch of soft vanilla. Flavours of malted milk biscuits and dried fruit follow, rounded out with an oily, smooth finish—ideal for savouring as the nights draw in.
£93.95 at www.htfw.com
Blanton’s Original
Blanton's Original is an old favourite that’s perfect for the season. Introduced in 1984 as the world’s first single-barrel bourbon, it set a high standard for the category and remains a classic choice. Aged in American white oak, it opens with inviting aromas of raisins and a hint of citrus and nutmeg. The palate follows with a cozy blend of subtly spiced caramel, toffee, and oak, leading to a smooth finish with lingering notes of cloves and vanilla—ideal for savouring as the days grow shorter.
£85.95 at www.abbeywhisky.com