The world of spirits has been abuzz with the latest rankings of the top 50 rated spirits in the world, and the results are in! The list, published by TasteAtlas, a leading culinary compendium and food and travel guide, is based on the opinions of nearly 50,000 food experts from around the world. With over 10,000 foods and drinks catalogued, the website has created a world atlas of traditional dishes, local ingredients, and authentic restaurants.

It is no surprise that whiskies from Scotland have taken up a significant portion of the list, with four of the five whisky regions in the country represented. However, it is Islay whisky that has come out on top, claiming the number one spot in the rankings.

Islay whisky is produced in one of the officially recognized Scottish whisky regions, located on the southernmost Hebridean island of Islay. With eight operational distilleries on the island, Islay whisky is renowned for its strong, robust, smoky, and peated flavor profile. Despite this, there are also fruity and smooth examples of the whisky available.

Joining Islay whisky in the top 10 spirits are Lambanog, a potent Filipino drink, French spirit Rhum agricole, French grape brandy Armagnac, London Dry Gin, Cognac, Gin, Balkan fruit brandy Viljamovka, and Reposado tequila. Highland whisky came in at third place, while Speyside whisky claimed the 23rd spot, and Lowland whisky followed in 35th place.

TasteAtlas had high praise for Islay whisky, describing it as the strongest-flavored variety of whisky. The southern distilleries on the island mostly rely on peat, which contributes to the whisky's characteristic salinity, while the northern distilleries focus on milder and lighter styles. Despite the differences in production methods, Islay whisky is beloved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide for its bold and complex flavor profile.

The rankings are a testament to the diversity and quality of spirits available around the world, with a wide range of drinks from different regions making the list. Whether you are a whisky aficionado or a lover of spirits in general, the top 50 ranking is sure to have something to pique your interest.
March 27, 2023 — Andy Cook