3 of the Top Budget UK Supermarket Whiskies

Right now, we get that times are incredibly hard financially. What with double-digit inflation, interest rates that just keep creeping up, rising energy prices, political unrest, conflict in Europe, and of course, the small matter of the remnants of a global pandemic, it’s easy to see why people are so fed up.

Without dwelling too much on the negatives, times are tough and we’re all feeling the pinch financially. Just because we’re having to tighten the purse strings however, that doesn’t mean that we can’t enjoy a treat now and then.

For those who appreciate a good whisky, or whiskey, you will be pleased to hear that there are now a selection of supermarket own branded whiskies with fantastic reviews, that not only taste amazing, but are also very affordable.

No, your eyes are not deceiving you, we really are recommending supermarket whiskies, 3 of them in fact. Here’s a look at 3 of the top UK supermarket whiskies for people on a budget.

Tesco Special Reserve Scotch Whisky

To some whisky aficionados, the thought of drinking a supermarket-own brand of whisky is scarier than getting into the ring with a prime Mike Tyson, after he caught you badmouthing him behind his back.

In reality however, supermarkets have come a long way in the whisky producing world and this offering from Tesco is surprisingly good.

Distilled in the Highlands of Scotland, this Scotch has been matured for 3 years in oak casks to give it a wonderful light golden amber colour and aroma.

At 40% ABV, it’s not as strong as some Scotch out there, but it more than does the trick, and the trademark “burn” is most definitely there.

On the nose you get smoked oak aromas, with hints of figs and honey.

On the palate you get grains, a touch of vanilla, more honey, toffee, and a touch of toasted oak.

The finish is medium and provides more honey and smoked oak notes, giving a very mellow finish.

Lidl Ben Bracken Speyside

Next up we have an offering from one of the UK’s budget supermarkets – Lidl.

Lidl’s Ben Bracken Speyside single malt is ideal for whisky drinkers who enjoy a lighter whisky, perhaps served in a highball.

This is another 40% ABV whisky, but it has a much darker colour than the offering from Tesco, with a deep golden honey colour.

On the nose you get a hint of toasted hazelnut, dried figs, cinnamon, and golden syrup.

On the palate you get creamy vanilla fudge, ginger, warmed honey, more cinnamon, and sticky dates. There is the slightest hint of roasted coffee lingering in the background, just begging to be discovered.

The finish is surprisingly long and light, offering up notes of gingerbread, toffee, and more honey.

Sainsbury’s Blended Scotch Whisky

Last, but certainly not least, we have Sainsbury’s Blended Scotch Whisky.

This whisky is the most affordable on our list today, but don’t let that fool you, because it more than holds its own against its competitors.

This 40% ABV blended Scotch is a fantastic colour, providing a rich scorched toffee colour that’s very pleasant on the eyes.

On the nose you immediately get toasted oak, accompanied by mixed berries, vanilla, caramelised sugar, and the lightest touches of woodsmoke.

On the palate the vanilla and demerara sugar shines through right away, accompanied by sticky plums and dates, nutmeg, and a touch of woodsmoke.

The finish is medium-long, and offers notes of plum, oak, and toffee.

Tags: Top Budget UK Supermarket Whiskies

Greg

My name is Greg, and I’m a brand strategy consultant, writer, speaker, host and judge specialising in premium spirits. My mission is to experience, share and inspire with everything great about whisky, whiskey, gin, beer and fine dining through my writing, my brand building and my whisky tastings.