Few categories in the world of spirits carry the same sense of reverence, craftsmanship, and global prestige as Scotch whisky. In recent years, Scotch has experienced a renewed momentum—driven by distillers who honor time-honored traditions while embracing creativity in aging, blending, and flavor expression. The 2025 New York World Spirits Competition celebrated this balance of heritage and innovation, with entries that showcased the category’s remarkable depth and range.

Known for producing some of the world’s most powerfully peated whiskies, Ardbeg has long been celebrated as a standard-bearer of Islay Scotch. The distillery’s Wee Beastie proves that boldness and balance can coexist beautifully—even in a young whisky. Matured for just five years, this expression captures the untamed essence of Ardbeg’s house style while offering remarkable depth for its age.

The Glenmorangie name is synonymous with elegance, innovation, and balance, and its Infinita 18 Year Old is a stunning testament to the artistry of long aging. This expression represents a masterful harmony of time, oak, and spirit, delivering a whisky that is both intricate and effortlessly drinkable. The Infinita showcases Glenmorangie’s expertise in cask selection and maturation.

Another triumph from Glenmorangie, A Tale of Spices brings a more expressive, flavor-forward approach to single malt. Without an age statement, this release allows the distillery’s creativity to shine, layering vibrant fruit and spice within a luxuriously textured profile. A Tale of Spices reflects the growing appreciation for no-age-statement whiskies that emphasize character and innovation over convention—proof that great Scotch is defined not only by age, but by creativity. 

As one of the world’s most iconic whisky brands, Johnnie Walker continues to set the standard for excellence in blended Scotch. The Black Ruby expression reaffirms the brand’s mastery of balance, offering a luxurious and modern take on the art of blending. Black Ruby exemplifies what Johnnie Walker does best—creating a seamless harmony of flavor that appeals to both new whisky enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

The Scotch winners of the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition reflect both the mastery of heritage brands and the evolving tastes of modern whisky drinkers. From Ardbeg’s smoky intensity to Glenmorangie’s layered refinement and Johnnie Walker’s polished blend, this year’s honorees showcase the artistry that continues to define Scotch whisky.

Whether you prefer peated power, sherried sophistication, or balanced blends, this year’s winners remind us that Scotch’s enduring magic lies in its diversity—and in its ability to tell a story through every sip.