Whisky Books

A Double Scotch: How Chivas Regal and The Glenlivet Became Global Icons

A Double Scotch tells the intertwined success stories of Chivas Regal and The Glenlivet two Scotch whisky brands recognized the world–over for their unparalleled quality.

A Field Guide to Whisky: An Expert Compendium to Take Your Passion and Knowledge to the Next Level

A Field Guide to Whisky is a one-stop guide for all the information a whisky enthusiast needs.

A Glass Apart: Irish Single Pot Still Whiskey

"A must read book for any fan of Irish whiskey. At a time when the category is making the mightiest of comebacks Fionnán O'Connor has written a gem of a book, digging deep in to the heart of his country's whiskey history and telling its story with style and authority. Excellent." Dominic Roskrow, Founding Director, The Craft Distillers Alliance

A Long Stride: The Story of the World's No. 1 Scotch Whisky

A Long Stride tells the story of how John Walker and a succession of ingenious and progressive business leaders embraced their Scottish roots to walk confidently on an international stage. By doing things their own way, Johnnie Walker overturned the conventions of late Victorian and Edwardian Britain, survived two world wars and the Great Depression, coming back stronger each time, to become the first truly global whisky brand, revolutionising the world of advertising along the way.

Alt Whiskeys: Alternative Whiskey Recipes and Distilling Techniques for the Adventurous Craft Distiller

Learn to make 50 alternative whiskeys: from bourbons to single malts to moonshines. The recipes use alternative grains, craft beer inspired ingredients like hops, and smoked grains to expand the distiller’s creative palette.

American Whiskey, Bourbon & Rye: A Guide to the Nation's Favorite Spirit

The bible of American whiskeys, bourbons, and ryes has been updated! Arranged alphabetically by distillery and then brand, this expanded and revised edition offers histories, ratings, and tasting notes for over 300 whiskeys - with more than 100 entirely new entries. Each section includes the contact information of the featured maker, along with its various products.

American Whiskey: Over 300 Whiskeys and 110 Distillers Tell the Story of the Nation's Spirit book

The history of whiskey straddles Kentucky and Tennessee, but American Whiskey proves that today exceptional whiskey is made across the country.

Amrut―The Great Churn: The Global Story of India’s First Single Malt

One fine day in Ooty, Bangalore-based businessman Neelakanta Rao Jagdale mixed single malt whisky with peated whisky, both crafted in his family-owned distillery. This blend would put Amrut on the world map, succeeding beyond Jagdale’s wildest dreams.

Anatomy of the Whisky Business

by Frank Kane - 1965

A Passion for Whisky: How the Tiny Scottish Island of Islay Creates Malts that Captivate the World

Individual profiles of Islay's 13 distilleries include tasting notes for selected malts that illustrate the incredible range of peated styles produced, together with a section on tasting techniques, making this an indispensable guide for Scotch whisky lovers.

Appreciating Whisky: The Connoisseur's Guide to Nosing, Tasting and Enjoying Scotch

Appreciating Whisky offers the reader detailed, structured knowledge on how to develop his or her palate for whisky.

A Sense of Place: A journey around Scotland’s whisky

In this beautifully crafted narrative, award-winning writer Dave Broom examines Scotch whisky from the point of view of its terroir - the land, weather, history, craft and culture that feed and enhance the whisky itself.

A Table: Whisky from Glass to Plate

Martine Nouet is an authority on both whisky and French cuisine. In 2015 she won the Grand Prix du Livre Spirits with Le Guide Hachette des whiskies. Her new cookbook takes an original slant on whisky as an accompaniment to good food. She presents 60 recipes honed from her many years of experience as whisky presenter and cook.

A Teacher's Tale

Another book given to me when representing the brand back in Maxxium UK days - all about Teacher's scotch whisky.

Beer Hunter, Whisky Chaser In Honour of Michael Jackson

A collection of writings on whisky and beer published to honour the memory of Michael Jackson. With contributions from the most respected experts in both fields and all profits going to the Parkinson's Disease Society, there's just no excuse not to buy it.

Blending 101

In this second volume of The Canadian Whisky Master Class: whisky connoisseurs and amateur enthusiasts are constantly seeking ways to better understand the many differences between Canadian, Scotch, Irish and American whiskeys.

Blood and Whiskey: The Life and Times of Jack Daniel

The first-ever biography of the man who created America's most famous whiskey. Born in Lynchburg, Tennessee, in 1850, Jack Daniel became a legendary moonshiner at age 15 before launching a legitimate distillery ten years later. By the time he died in 1911, he was an American legend-and his Old No. 7 Tennessee sipping whiskey was an international sensation, the winner of gold medals at the St. Louis World's Fair and the Liege International Exposition in Belgium.

Bourbon Empire: The Past and Future of America's Whiskey

Unraveling the many myths and misconceptions surrounding America's most iconic spirit, Bourbon Empire traces a history that spans frontier rebellion, Gilded Age corruption, and the magic of Madison Avenue. Whiskey has profoundly influenced America's political, economic, and cultural destiny, just as those same factors have inspired the evolution and unique flavour of the whiskey itself.

Bourbon, Straight: The Uncut And Unfiltered Story Of American Whiskey

The book follows the trail of America whiskey-making from its 17th century origins right up to the present day. In it, readers will discover the history of the American whiskey industry, how American whiskey is made and marketed, the differences among various types of American whiskey (bourbon, rye, Tennessee) and how they compare to other world whiskies.

Bourbon, Strange

How Did a Product with Four Simple Ingredients Get So Strange A well-funded attempt to degrade bourbon winds up protecting it. A wealthy United States Treasury Secretary gives himself a valuable franchise and no one objects. A rye whiskey empire spawns a renowned robber baron. The biggest company in the business shoot itself in the foot, repeatedly. An American whiskey type is named after the king of France and no one knows why. Members of two reviled immigrant minorities save the bourbon industry. Mushrooms improve bourbon s taste. Those are just a few of the surprising, true stories in Bourbon, Strange.

Bourbon: The Complete Guide to the Essential American Spirit

A deluxe illustrated history of and guide to Kentucky bourbon, featuring framing-quality reproductions of archival photographs, rare bottle labels, and more, all in an elegant boxed set with a pull-out drawer.

Bourbon: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of an American Whiskey

Bourbon is not just alcohol -- this amber-colored drink is deeply ingrained in American culture and tangled in American history. From the early days of raw corn liquor to the myriad distilleries that have proliferated around the country today, bourbon has come to symbolize America.

Bourbon: The Story of Kentucky Whiskey

Whiskey expert Clay Risen explores the origins, history, and evolution of America’s distilling craft and culture in this luxurious boxed set.

Bringing Whisky to The People since 2005 - 20 years of The Whisky Lounge

Interviews by Isabel Graham-Yool

Buffalo, Barrels & Bourbon

Buffalo, Barrels, & Bourbon tells the fascinating tale of the Buffalo Trace Distillery, from the time of the earliest explorations of Kentucky to the present day. Author and award-winning spirits expert F. Paul Pacult takes readers on a journey through history that covers the American Revolutionary War, U.S Civil War, two World Wars, Prohibition, and the Great Depression.

Campbeltown Whisky: An Encyclopaedia

Poet and historian Angus Martin was born in Campbeltown in 1952 and has lived there all his life. In this, his thirty-seventh book, he has employed his intimate knowledge of the history and families of his native community to produce the definitive account of the distillers, distilleries and related trades and industries which transformed a small West Highland fishing town into the whisky-making capital of the world.

Canadian Whisky, Second Edition: The New Portable Expert

Davin de Kergommeaux takes readers on a journey through the first systematic presentation of Canadian whisky: how it's made, who makes it, why it has its own unique flavours, its history, culture and the rich centuries of folklore surrounding it.

Canadian Whisky - the essential portable expert

In this fully updated edition of Canadian Whisky, the nation’s authority himself, Davin de Kergommeaux celebrates the country’s often underplayed—yet integral—role in this storied spirit. A trusted independent whisky expert, de Kergommeaux has travelled the country in search of all things whisky to share the very latest findings, photographs, and tasting notes.

Canadian Whisky: The Product and The Industry

William F. Rannie. Lincoln. 1976.

Cask Management for Distillers

Designed to give distillers of all levels a better understanding of the spirit maturation process. Chapters detail important considerations and concepts such as the effect of wood species on maturation and spirit quality, the chemistry underlying cask aging, the selection of the best casks, and how to manipulate a number of important variables to best achieve your desired spirit profile.

Cask Strength: The Story of the Barrel, the Secret Ingredient in Your Drink

Cask Strength tells the story of the unsung hero of the world of spirits, wine, and beer and an invention as ancient and important as the wheel--the humble barrel. Discover the barrel's rich history, as well as the incredible skill and innovation that goes into producing your favourite drinks.

Charcoal & Whisky

"Charcoal & Whisky" is a book containing a series of drawings that document the whisky-making process and was created during Daniel Zalkus' time as a Glenfiddich Artist in Residence.

Charles MacLean's Whisky Tales

For centuries, whisky has tickled the palettes of the famous and the infamous alike, the good as well as the downright sinful. In this study, Charles MacLean pours a lifetime's passion and knowledge of Scotch whisky into an extraordinary array of anecdotes about this popular drink and those who have loved it from Robbie Burns, Scotland's best-loved poet, to comedian Dave Allen.

Chasing the Dram: Finding the Spirit of Whisky

Whisky is Scotland's national drink and has been for over five hundred years, since then becoming a global phenomenon. It is a drink that is a profound and important part of Scottish life and culture but, unlike other countries and their national libations, it has hardly been used in food. Rachel McCormack is going to change that with this book.

Chronicles Of The Maltmen Craft In Glasgow, 1605-1879 (1895)

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. The original version may be difficult to source/ find.

Collecting Scotch Whisky: An Illustrated Encyclopedia

The book is a work of passion by Emmanuel and it looks at more than 2,500 rare bottles of both independent and official bottlings, including 12,500 photographs of many of these rarely seen bottles, and fascinating interviews.

Craigellachie: The Romantic and the Pragmatic

Learn about the history of Craigellachie distillery with this book from Dave Broom, covering all aspects of Craigellachie's story. From romantics, to pragmatists, warfare to engineering, fiddles to moonshine and much more, this book will unveil the incredible story of this distillery.

Cutty Sark the making of a whisky brand

As I recall, I was given this book as a gift after The Edrington Group had purchased the brand from Berry Bros & Rudd. All about the Cutty Sark brand of course.

Descubriendo el Mundo del Whisky (in Spanish)

By Gisela García Gleria. Un libro escrito en español y creado con profundo respeto por quienes hacen grande a esta industria, en todos los sentidos. Arte y whisky se unen, creando una forma original de acercarse a este maravilloso mundo del whisky, integrando mi propia visión subjetiva y creativa para comprender y recrear el whisky a través de mis pinturas con el trabajo técnico de investigación sobre los procesos de producción y los tipos de whisky, entre otros temas.

Edradour The Myth, The Mafia & The Magic

A history of Edradour Distillery in Pitlochry, filled with fascinating insights, anecdotes and eye-opening details about the distillery's proprietors, which include an associate of the New York Mafia in 1930s.

English Whisky: The journey from grain to glass

More and more distilleries here in England, both large commercial ones and micro-distilleries, are exploring new and exciting flavours, playing around with different grains, shapes of stills and flavour profiles. Many of these distilleries are now becoming serious world-class operations, a far cry from the small craft distilleries of even 20 years ago.

Everything You Need to Know About Whisky: (But are too afraid to ask)

Whisky experts Nick Morgan and The Whisky Exchange open the lid on the whisky industry, revealing what makes one of the world's simplest spirits just so popular. Everything You Need to Know About Whisky will answer all of your burning questions; from what makes the perfect scotch and how to drink it like a pro to an exploration of distilleries around the world and their fascinating (often scandalous) histories.

Exploring 'New World' Whiskies: A Global Journey Beyond Tradition

Exploring ‘New World’ Whiskies is your passport to the vibrant and innovative whisky landscapes of Japan, India, Taiwan, Australia, Sweden, England, Wales, New Zealand and beyond.

Famous for a Reason: The Story of the Famous Grouse

From humble beginnings in Perth in the early nineteenth century Matthew Gloag established a thriving whisky business that found favour with the royal household and the Scottish public alike. The family business he established struck gold in 1896 when they created the The Famous Grouse - a blended whisky that became a national favourite.

Field Guide to Whisky, A: An Expert Compendium to Take Your Passion and Knowledge to the Next Level

A Field Guide to Whisky is a one-stop guide for all the information a whisky enthusiast needs. With the whisky market booming all over the world, now is a perfect time for a comprehensive guide to this popular brown spirit.

Fire Water: Experimental Smoked Whiskeys

Take your craft brewing and distilling to a whole new level with Fire Water: experimental smoked malts and whiskeys. This book focuses on smoked whiskey, malt, and beer with an emphasis on techniques to maximize smoke flavor and intensity. 80 different woods and other smoke fuel sources were used to create flavor profiles for the distiller or brewer looking for creative recipes.

Founding Spirits: George Washington and the Beginnings of the American Whiskey Industry

George Washington's largely unknown and unexamined role as the entrepreneurial owner of one of the largest whiskey distilleries in 18th-century America forms the core of this detailed portrayal of the origins of the American whiskey industry.

From Barley to Blarney: A Whiskey Lover's Guide to Ireland

From medieval monks to recent renaissance, From Barley to Blarney: A Whiskey Lover's Guide to Ireland includes everything you need to understand, appreciate, and mix one of the world’s fastest-growing (and most delicious!) spirits.

Glen Garioch: The Manson Distillery : a Hidden Gem in Aberdeenshire (2013)

By Patrick Brossard

Goodness Nose: The Passionate Revelations of a Scotch Whisky Master Blender

Richard Paterson has Scotch whisky running through his veins. His grandfather and father were both prominent in the Scotch whisky industry in Glasgow for decades before Richard joined a competing whisky brokerage firm to start his apprenticeship. But this is no dry textbook on blending. Far from it. Humour, insight, history, a love of people and an abiding and evangelical passion inform every page. For the first time one of the world's foremost whisky blenders reveals how he rose through the ranks to top of his profession.

Great Brand Stories Scotch Whisky

This book looks at Scotch as an uber-brand and tells the story of its enduring spirit. All individual whisky brands rely on the "Scotch" brand to win new customers and retain the loyalty of existing ones. Stuart Delves provides a fascinating examination of how such a brand evolved across the world, its unique role in the industry, its future, and the key lessons for other brands.

Hacking Whiskey: Smoking, Blending, Fat Washing, and Other Whiskey Experiments

This is not your ordinary whiskey book, it's a collection of ingenious ideas and shortcuts to help you temper your whiskey to greatness in the privacy of your own home.

Highland Park 50 Year Old Whisky History And Information Book

The story of Highland Park 50 year old. (Available via auction houses and eBay).

How To Make Whiskey: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Whiskey

Everything you need to know to ferment and distill whiskey right the first time.

Iconic Whisky: Tasting Notes and Flavour Charts for 1,000 of the World's Best Whiskies

Featuring 1,000 listed whiskies from around the world, this exceptional and unique guidebook is a must-have for whisky amateurs and connoisseurs alike. It provides a visual categorisation of the main aromas (nose, body, finish and strength), plus additional tasting notes based on the authors' uniquely conceived aroma wheel.

Independent Scotch - The History of Independent Bottlers

The History of Independent Bottlers by David Stirk is an investigative love letter to the world of independent whisky bottlers, twinned with David’s career in the industry.

Islay: Ships Smoke and Spirit: Barley, Boats and Barrels

Alliteration runs riot in the title of this new book in which detailed research, observation and commentary from Guthrie Hutton married with freshly-discovered period photographs, take us on a tour of the Scottish island which is, above all, renowned for its whisky.

Japanese Whisky, Scotch Blend: The Japanese Whisky King and His Scotch Wife Rita

Japanese Whisky, Scotch Blend is the story of one man's determination to succeed, both in business and love, despite criticism and cultural barriers. It is also the story of a young girl's move to Japan, a land of unfamiliar customs and even stranger language, her joys and heartaches, the struggle of life during the second World War, and her determination to build a family home.

Japanese Whisky: The Ultimate Guide to the World's Most Desirable Spirit with Tasting Notes from Japan's Leading Whisky Blogger

For the first time in English, this book presents over a hundred independently scored whisky tastings from leading Japanese whisky blogger, Yuji Kawasaki, shedding new light on Japan's most famous single malts as well as grain whiskies and blends.

Jim Murray's Whisky Bible

This is the most comprehensive and thoroughly researched guide to the world's whiskies ever produced according to Jim Murray.

Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey: An American Heritage

On May 4, 1964, Congress designated bourbon as a distinctive product of the United States, and it remains the only spirit produced in this country to enjoy such protection. Its history stretches back almost to the founding of the nation and includes many colorful characters, both well known and obscure, from the hatchet-wielding prohibitionist Carry Nation to George Garvin Brown, who in 1872 created Old Forester, the first bourbon to be sold only by the bottle.

Le Nez du Bourbon & American Whiskey 12 aromas

Follow your nose and take a trip to the land of American whiskeys including bourbon, the best-known of them all.

Let Me Tell You About Whisky

A guide to whisky from the 'Let me tell you about...' series, combining the knowledge of veteran writer Gavin Smith and friend of TWE Neil Ridley to give an engaging and well-written snapshot of the world of whisky.

Le Snob Guide to Whisky (English Edition)

Evocative and richly appointed with little-known facts, this book is about savouring the world s most sophisticated spirit to the full.

Let's Collect Scotch Whisky

by David Daiches (1986)

Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest

Embark on a captivating journey with Love & Whiskey. New York Times bestselling author Fawn Weaver unveils the hidden narrative behind one of America’s most iconic whiskey brands.

MacLean's Miscellany of Whisky

In these pages are all you need to know to appreciate the world's finest spirit, and Scotland s most generous gift to the world. Wide ranging in its scope, yet served up in easily digestible portions, liberally spiced with quirky and unusual stories and quotations, MacLean's Miscellany of Whisky delves seams which have been previously ignored, opens up long-closed galleries.

Maker's Mark My Autobiography

This book is all about the Maker's Mark brand (clearly!) and it was given to me when working with this fantastic American brand.

Malts and Malting

This book by Dennis Briggs gives a comprehensive overview of malts and malt competitors, how they are made and evaluated.

Malt Whisky: The Complete Guide

Malt whisky has captured the hearts of spirits drinkers worldwide, especially in recent years. This fully revised and updated edition of the award-winning Malt Whisky is now in a handy portable size, making it the perfect companion for touring Scotland's distilleries.

Malt Whisky Yearbook: The Facts, the People, the News, the Stories

This is one of my favourite drinks books. Whisky enthusiasts all over the world look forward to the Malt Whisky Yearbook every autumn. The 2024 release is the 19th edition and again it is fully revised and packed with new and up-to-date information on more than 400 whisky distilleries from all over the world. Distinguished whisky experts contribute with new features written exclusively for this new edition along with details of hundreds of whisky shops, whisky sites and new bottlings.

Not Another F*cking Whisky Book

Reflections On A Life of Whisky, Mischief and Mayhem by Mitch Bechard

Not Your Average Joe: A Biography of Joseph William Hobbs (1891–1963), Whisky Entrepreneur

Not Your Average Joe tells the fascinating story of how the son of a bankrupt English farmer rose to be one of the leading figures in the history of the Scotch whisky industry, making two fortunes and losing one along the way.

On the Production Methods of Pot Still Whisky

In the winter of 1920, the 25 year-old Masataka Taketsuru, with his new wife Rita in tow, arrived in Campbeltown, a small town on the west coast of Scotland. Taketsuru would go on to establish his own company - Nikka Whisky.

Opening The Case: The Affairs of Pattisons' Whisky

This book by Justine Hazlehurst is the culmination of four years of dedicated writing and extensive research, revealing new findings about the Pattisons during this tumultuous time in the history of Scotch whisky – some of which have never been published before.

Paddy Drinks: The World of Modern Irish Whiskey Cocktails

A collection of Irish whiskey recipes from the acclaimed Dead Rabbit in New York City The folks behind the world-renowned, award-winning Irish pub, Dead Rabbit, know a thing or two about whiskey, and about making great whiskey cocktails.

Pappyland: A Story of Family, Fine Bourbon, and the Things That Last

As a journalist said of Pappy Van Winkle, 'You could call it bourbon, or you could call it a $5,000 bottle of liquified, barrel-aged unobtanium.' Julian Van Winkle, the third-generation head of his family's business, is now thought of as something like the Buddha of Bourbon - Booze Yoda, as Wright Thompson calls him. A bottle of the 23-year-old Pappy starts at $3000 on the internet. As Julian is the first to say, things have gone completely nuts.

Peat and Whisky: The Unbreakable Bond

Mike Billett used all the knowledge he gained over a 40-year career in research and education of geology, soil and water science, along with a deep love of a good whisky. This book has been described by big names in the world of whisky, such as Charles MacLean, Gavin D Smith, Neil Wilson and Brian Townsend, as an ‘outstanding’, ‘important’, ‘compelling’, ‘entertaining’ work and ‘essential reading for all whisky lovers’.

Peat Smoke and Spirit: A Portrait of Islay and Its Whiskies

In PEAT SMOKE AND SPIRIT, Islay's fascinating story is uncovered: from its history and stories of the many shipwrecks which litter its shores, to the beautiful wildlife, landscape and topography of the island revealed through intimate descriptions of the austerely beautiful and remote countryside. Interleaved through these different narrative strands comes the story of the whiskies themselves, traced from a distant past of bothies and illegal stills to present-day legality and prosperity.

Pioneering Spirits:A Tour of Scotland's 21st Century Whisky Distilleries

More distilleries were built in Scotland during the first two decades of the 21st century than in the entire previous millennium. In this book, industry expert David Stirk examines the new and pioneering distilleries that dot the Scottish landscape. A must-read for all whisky fans.

Return to the Glen: Adventures on the Scotch Whisky Trail

by Richard Grindal

Savour: A guide to tasting and exploring whiskies of the world

Savour is a modern guide to one of the world's most flavour-forward drinks: whisky. Gone are the days of the drink being only for a narrow group of people.

Scotch Missed: Scotland's Lost Distilleries

This is a revised third edition of the hardback published in 1993 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the first documentary records of the making of Scotch whisky in 1494. Brian Townsend has now detailed the remnants and ruins of almost every Victorian working distillery in Scotland. In this new edition he has fully updated the most recent closures and has sourced over 35 new archive photographs of many of Scotland s lost distilleries.

Scotch: Stories Behind Scotlands Iconic Spirit

This is the story behind Scotland’s iconic spirit via an extensive road trip across the country. Photographer Horst A. Friedrichs and travel writer Stuart Husband offer an insight into Scotland’s whisky distilleries and explains in detail how each crafts its own spirit.

SCOTCH The Balmoral Guide to Scottish Whisky

Written by Cameron Ewen, bar manager of SCOTCH, The Balmoral hotel bar, and Moa Reynolds, whisky writer and spirits judge. A great guide for the novice to the expert! Includes Cameron’s top 100 whiskies that he has selected from SCOTCH’s vast collection of 500+ bottles.

Scotch: The Whisky of Scotland in Fact and Story

A classic work on Scotch and its origins, Lockhart's book has long been regarded as a whisky classic. Including the foreword written by his late son in 1995, fully updated and revised, this book covers some of the lesser known episodes in the industry's history.

Scotch Whisky: A Liquid History

Whisky is widely considered the finest spirit in the world and its history has evolved against a fascinating backdrop. This is the story of a traditional spirit with an intriguing past. The book explores and unfolds, decade by decade, the history, secrets and untold tales surrounding one of the world's most popular tipples.

Scotch Whisky by Gavin D. Smith

Scotch Whisky: Explore the History and Craft of Scotch Whisky and Learn How to Make Your Own

Written for those who love Scotch whisky, this 183-page book will introduce you to the history of Scotch, the processes used by commercial Scotch distilleries in Scotland, and some of the science of producing Scotch.

Scotch Whisky: Its Past and Present

by David Daiches (1969)

Scotch Whisky: Questions and Answers

by Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) - 1953. This book may be difficult to source/ find.

Scotland's Malt Whiskies

by John Wilson (1974)

Scotland's Malt Whiskies - a dram by dram guide

by John Wilson (1978)

Scotland's Secret History: The Illicit Distilling and Smuggling of Whisky

Illicit distilling in Scotland was seen as a 'right of man' at the end of the 17th century. Attempts to enforce excise duty on the spirit were therefore met with resistance, ranging from riots to more and more ingenious ways of avoiding paying tax. In this book and Charles MacLean and Daniel MacCannell give a fascinating insight into the day-to-day struggles that led to the increase in illicit distilling from the mid-1600s, then to its eventual demise in the early twentieth century.

Scotland Stills & Mash: A Visitor's Guide to Distilleries, Breweries and Wineries

Spirit of Place: Whisky Distilleries of Scotland

A new handbook sized editon of Spirit of Place, a wide-ranging and evocative portrait of Scotland's distilleries, with text by renowned whisky expert Charles MacLean and photographs by Lara Platman and Alan MacDonald.

Stillhouse Stories - Tunroom Tales

In this informative and entertaining series of interviews leading whisky writer Gavin D. Smith reveals the workings of the Scotch whisky industry in a series of interviews with characters who have lived and worked in the business of making Scotch.

Still Stories: From Kentucky to Kilbeggan

More than a decade after his successful road story "The Road to Craigellachie," Hans Offringa has a new book full of fascinating stories from the wonderful world of whisky.

Tasmanian Whisky: The Devil’s Share

Whether your interests lie in matters Tasmanian or in the world of whisky this is a desirable read. If they are in both of these fascinating domains, then it is an absolute must!

Tasting Whiskey

Whiskey drinkers are discerning when it comes to their favourite spirit. In this complete appreciation of every kind of whiskey, readers will learn how whiskey is made and how to taste it. Lew Bryson explains the differences among the four types of whiskey (and when it should be spelled whisky) and discusses the regions where they are made, the process of tasting, and how to collect and age whiskey.

The Art of Whisky: A Deluxe Blend of Historic Posters from the Public Record Office

The Art of Whisky: The Vanishing Spirits of Single Malt Scotch

THE ART OF WHISKY is a breathtaking and unusual gift book for whisky connoisseurs celebrating the spirit from an unexpectedly beautiful angle.

The Balvenie: A Centenary Celebration 1893 - 1993

By Derek Cooper (available via auction sites)

The Best Collection of Malt Scotch Whisky by Valentino Zagatti (Red and Green Book)

Written by Valentino Zagatti, former owner of one of the largest collections of whiskies in the world. These books are now out of print and have been updated by The Whisky Couple with the release of 'The Unseen Valentino Zagatii Collection'.

The Big Man of Jim Beam

This book is the biography of Booker Noe, sixth generation Beam Master Distiller and Jim Beam's grandson. I never met him but did meet his son, Fred Noe, a few times whilst he was visiting the UK. This book by award-winning author Jim Kokoris, a close friend of Booker Noe and the Beam family, chronicles Booker's life from his boyhood in small town Kentucky through to his rise to bourbon prominence.

The Classic Whisky Guide

"The Classic Whisky Guide" is a comprehensive and highly entertaining work of reference by Jim Murray (2009).

The Complete Whiskey Course: A Comprehensive Tasting School in Ten Classes

The definitive book on understanding and appreciating the exploding world of whiskey. Renowned whiskey educator Robin Robinson demystifies the "water of life" in a definitive, heavily illustrated tome designed to take readers on a global tour of the ever-expanding world of whiskey.

The definitive guide to buying vintage Macallan

This book on Macallan single malt may be slightly out of date but still interesting if someone is looking to read into the history of the brand or has some old stock at home.

The Definitive Guide to Canadian Distilleries

This is an indispensable guide to the past, present and future of Canada's distilleries. Written by bona fide Canadian spirits expert Davin de Kergommeaux, this book covers more than 200 of the most exciting and cutting-edge distilleries, large and small, who are shaping the industry today.

The Distillation of Whisky

With introductions from renowned whisky expert Dave Broom and Alan Winchester, former Master Distiller at The Glenlivet, The Distillation of Whisky, 1927-1931 provides an unparalleled insight into the whisky-making techniques of the early twentieth century.

The Distilleries of Campbeltown

This book is a new addition to my collection and it refers to the rise and fall of Campbeltown, the Victorian whisky capital of the World.

The Distilleries of Great Britain & Ireland

With hundreds of ultra-high definition images carefully restored by the British Library’s digitization team, this book, the earliest comprehensive photographic survey in existence of its kind, is an indispensable insight into the long-lost past of Scotland and Ireland’s national drink.

The Founder's Tale: A Good Idea and a Glass of Malt

This is the story of how one man, with a bit of help from his friends, created a revolution in the hitherto staid world of Scotch Whisky. But by creating the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, he gave whisky drinkers access to the finest distilled liquor on the planet - and what's more, he had a great time doing it.

The Great Drams of Scotland

This first book by Greg Dillon was selected as our Book of the Month for October 2017.

The History of Lindores Abbey - The Spiritual Home of Scotch Whisky

History is at the heart of what makes Lindores unique, and it’s something our visitors are always eager to explore. Thanks to the passion and knowledge of two of our tour guides, we’ve captured this remarkable story in a beautifully crafted booklet.

The History of the Distillers Company, 1877-1939: Diversification and Growth in Whisky and Chemicals

The Distillers Company (DCL) existed from 1877 until 1986 when it was acquired by Guinness. This book covers DCL's history from its founding as the merger of six firms to its position as one of Britain's largest manufacturing companies with diversified interests around the world. It is an extraordinary story of growth, acquisition, and diversification.

The History of Whiskey: in 100 Bottles, Barrels, and More

In this beautiful volume, renowned whiskey educator Robin Robinson skilfully chronicles the dynamic evolution of whiskey.

The Island Whisky Trail: An Illustrated Guide to the Hebridean Whisky Distilleries

This guide for the whisky enthusiast covers the distilleries of Islay, Jura, Mull and Skye along with historical information on distilling on Arran and in Argyll.

The Japanese Way of Whisky: Japan’s whiskies and how to enjoy them

Award-winning author and Japanese whisky expert, Dave Broom, tells the stories of Japan's whisky distilleries, unveiling the philosophy that lies behind this fascinating whisky culture, and revealing how it relates to many Japanese concepts.

The Keeper of History

In this first volume of The Canadian Whisky Master Class, “The Keeper of History” is the inside story of one of Canada’s largest whisky distilleries—Hiram Walker & Sons Ltd.—from the perspective of Master Blender, Dr. Don Livermore.

The Knowledge: Whisky

Unravelling the mysteries of whisky, this eminently approachable and enjoyable guide delivers a working knowledge of this magical drink in all its aspects. Dave Waddell points the reader in the direction of the very best whiskies out there.

The Language of Whisky

Whisky, or “whiskey” if you prefer, is a billion-dollar industry that spans the globe; it is made from New York to Tasmania. Although whisky is an umbrella term that includes everything from Bourbon to Irish and back again, it is most synonymous with Scotch and its success as a brand. But, how did an obscure drink from the far reaches of Europe rise to become a worldwide phenomenon?

The Little Book of Whisky: A Pocket Guide to the Wonderful World of Whisky

Step into the wonderful world of whisky with this fascinating introduction to the history, production, and many varieties of one of the world's best-loved liquors.

The Lore of Whisky

This gift book by Alice Parsons celebrates whisky: an informed look at how it is made and what differentiates its many varieties; its etiquette, its language and an historical portrait of it as it has evolved over the last five centuries morphing into what we drink today.

The Lost History of Tennessee Whiskey: Heroes, Villains, and Legends From a Whiskey Story Time Forgot

Think Jack and George are the complete story of Tennessee whiskey? Think again. For far too long, the real history and legacy of Tennessee whiskey has been hidden from whiskey fans. It's a history that not only predates Kentucky Bourbon but also the Whiskey Rebellion.

The Making of Scotch Whisky: A History Of The Scottish Whisky Distilling Industry

The Making of Scotch Whisky marked a revolution in the understanding of Scotland's most famous industry when it was first published, and remains the standard work - if you can secure a copy of the first edition - for whisky buffs and trade alike. This revised edition takes account of changes in the industry since the book's publication in 1981, as well as incorporating new research into earlier periods.

The Maltmen, Customs and Excisemen of Dundee 1700-1850

Publisher Tay Valley Family History Society - 1991. This book may be difficult to source/ find.

The New Single Malt Whiskey

The New Single Malt Whiskey is a collaboration between Clay Risen, Chip Tate and Carlo DeVito. It is an essential guide to single malt whisky, both from Scotland and the 'new world. Including cocktail recipes, this is a must-read for any whisky fan.

The New Zealand Whisky Book

by Stuart Perry - 1980

The Philosophy of Whisky

From illicit distillation to worldwide export, whisky has a powerful and multi-faceted history. Writers including Robert Burns, James Joyce and Haruki Murakami have all mused on it, and there are strong opinions on every aspect, even down to how the word itself should be spelled. Get to grips with the four key ingredients - grain, wood, yeast and time - then learn how to taste whisky like a pro, from glassware to cocktails, and become a part of the international whisky family.

The Pocket Guide to Whisky

This first book by Blair Bowman was selected as our Book of the Month in May 2017.

The Road to Craigellachie whisky book Hans Offringa

A discovery tour through the world of whisky and Scotland, with an occasional detour. The journey starts in the attic of a stately home, back in 1974, and ends more than 30 years later in the Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside with its world-famous Quaich whisky bar.

The Schweppes Guide to Scotch

The Schweppes Guide to Scotch was a 1983 publication written by Phillip Morrice. Detailing the industry at that time, it contains details of the companies operating at the time and their brands. History and production information is included too. A book that was considered to have been well ahead of its time.

The Science and Commerce of Whisky

Since the publication of the first edition in 2014, the whisky industry has continued to change. This book provides the reader with an overview of the latest academic research and industry best practice in an accessible and authoritative format. Despite the recession, new distillation capacity has been added at a record pace and new consumers in new markets have entered the arena. Distillers are experimenting with new finishes, packaging and marketing techniques and amongst consumers there is a hunger for knowledge and informed commentary.

The Scotch Whisky Treasures

Written by a Scotsman who considers it a blessing to grow up with Scotch whisky, the author describes not only about the history of whisky distillation, the famous men whose passion can be found in their special malts, but also acts as a guide on tours of the main whisky regions, including the Western Isles, Speyside, Highlands, Lowlands and Campbeltown, visiting some of the greatest names in the production of Scotch.

The Secret Still. Scotland's Clandestine Whisky Makers

This work covers Scottish illicit distilling. It examines the historical events and legislation that gave rise to, and sustained, its "boom" years. During those times, the Scottish countryside, and even city centres, teemed with "sma' stills" and were awash with whiskey which had been distilled without payment of excise duty.

The Single Malt Whisky Companion: A Connoisseur's Guide

by Helen Arthur

The Spirit Of Whisky

This is an affectionate portrayal of the Scotch whisky industry. Using the anecdotes, incidents and discussions which the author has come across in the 20 years he has been associated with the business, he describes the way in which whisky is distilled, its history, traditions and myths. From distillery to peat bogs and the smallest bar in Invernesshire, the reader gains an insight into the magic which surrounds the making and partaking of the "amber nectar".

The Story of Whisky: Adventures and anecdotes covering 1000 years of history to the present day

Award-winning writers Charles MacLean and Gavin D. Smith offer a rollocking narrative; describing the adventures of the legendary characters who shaped the whisky industry.

The Terroir of Whiskey: A Distiller's Journey Into the Flavor of Place

Look at the back label of a bottle of wine and you may well see a reference to its terroir, the total local environment of the vineyard that grew the grapes, from its soil to the climate. Winemakers universally accept that where a grape is grown influences its chemistry, which in turn changes the flavor of the wine. A detailed system has codified the idea that place matters to wine. So why don’t we feel the same way about whiskey?

The Traveller's Simple Guide to Scottish Distilleries in 2025

Discover Scotland’s Finest Whiskies with Easy Itineraries, Local Tips, and Must-Visit Distillery Experiences.

The Unseen Valentino Zagatti Collection

Hans & Becky Offringa, internationally known as The Whisky Couple, have published a series of books about The Unseen Valentino Zagatti Collection, commissioned by Scotch Whisky International.

The Way of Whisky: A Journey Around Japanese Whisky

An in-depth, personal journey around Japan's whisky distilleries. Award-winning author and Japanese whisky expert, Dave Broom, tells their story and unveils the philosophy that lies behind this fascinating whisky culture, and how it relates to many Japanese concepts.

The Whiskey Atlas

Explore 100+ Distilleries, Regional Profiles & Tasting Notes from Bourbon to Scotch, Rye to Irish.

The Whisky Barons

The success of today's whisky industry is largely due to the commercial drive and foresight of a select group of whisky merchants who took the business by storm in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This is the story of how Dewar, Buchanan, Walker, Bell and Mackie established their brands and kick-started the industry. The men had much in common: they were all Scots from humble beginnings, served long apprenticeships and ultimately set out on their own to build their companies.

The Whisky Connoisseur's Company

Facts, Fables and Folklore from the World of Whisky by John Lamond

The Whisky Dictionary: An A-Z of whisky, from history & heritage to distilling & drinking

This is the drinker's guide to every aspect of whisky, from Scotch to Japanese, rye to bourbon and beyond. With hundreds of entries covering everything from history, ingredients and distilling techniques to flavour notes, cocktails and the many varieties of whisky from all around the world, renowned whisky expert Ian Wisniewski explores and unlocks the wonderful world of a drink like no other.

The Whisky Distilleries of the United Kingdom

Around 1885, Alfred Barnard was secretary of Harper's Weekly Gazette, a journal dedicated to the wine and spirit trade. In order to provide his readers with the history and descriptions of the whisky-making process, Barnard decided to visit all distilleries in Scotland, England and Ireland. Accompanied by friends, he visited over 150 distilleries.

The Whisky Men

There is geographical diversity, reflecting the whisky heartlands of Speyside and Islay, as well as many other locations, and diversity, too, in the subjects who have participated in this project. Warehousemen, mashmen, stillmen, coopers, coppersmiths, excisemen, managers, owners and even the occasional illicit distiller give us a unique insight into what the whisky industry has been like to work in during the past half century or so, and how it has changed during that time.

The Whisky River

The Spey has been referred to as the Whisky River, with half the distilleries in Scotland found along its length and in its surrounding glens. Robin Laing has set out to visit every distillery in the Speyside area, from Benromach to Tomintoul, and presents a guide to each of them here.

The Whisky World Tour: A curated guide to unforgettable distilleries and their whiskies

The Whisky World Tour takes you beyond the glass to discover 52 of the very best whisky distilleries open to the public, around the globe.

The World Atlas of Whisky - 3rd Edition

Award-winning author and whisky expert Dave Broom profiles more than 500 distilleries and explores more than 480 whiskies in this extensive world atlas. There has been major growth in the world of whisky in the last decade, with many more distilleries opening, and this new edition of the must-have reference book on whisky brings the world of whisky right up to date.

The World of Whisky

Dispel the mysteries of the whisky world with this authoritative book from David Wishart, Neil Ridley and Gavin D Smith. From the history of this great spirit, to the traditional production methods and the flavours, World of Whisky demystifies whiskies from all around the world.

The World of Whisky: The New Traditions

Offering a wealth of knowledge on whisky's rich history, production process, distilleries, and latest innovations, it also provides an insider’s look into how the best whisky makers around the world approach their craft across both iconic brands known around the world to small microdistilleries making the best whisky in countries not normally associated with this celebrated spirit.

Une brève mais intense histoire du whisky français

miers tests de distillation de malt réalisés dans les années 1980, les distilleries de whisky ont essaimé sur tout le territoire.

Whiskey

by Udo Pini (2004)

Whiskey America

What can we expect from the best whiskey producers in America today? Whiskey America showcases some of the most exciting new styles of whiskey and why they are so special. With fascinating interviews with some of the leading characters in the recent distilling revolution, this absorbing book relates the stories of how successful lawyers, doctors and city slickers made the life-changing decision to turn their backs on conventional careers to pursue the 'good life' of making spirits in the most far-flung outreaches of America.

Whiskey and Philosophy: A Small Batch of Spirited Ideas

Everyone becomes a philosopher with a drink in hand, but Whiskey & Philosophy takes this natural pairing to a new level. It explores a range of philosophical topics related to whiskey through engaging reflections written by philosophers, whiskey writers, and others.

Whiskey Distilled: A Populist Guide to the Water of Life

In this lively and authoritative guide, Greene uses bright visuals, an easy-to-read format, and the familiar vocabulary of wine to teach readers about whiskey and encourage them to make their own evaluations. Peppered with wry anecdotes drawn from her unusual life--and including recipes for delicious cocktails by some of today's most celebrated mixologists.

Whiskey Women: The Untold Story of How Women Saved Bourbon, Scotch, and Irish Whiskey

Whiskies Galore: A Tour of Scotland's Island Distilleries

Island whiskies have long held a fascination and a powerful emotional draw on whisky drinkers the world over. Their special combination of heritage, mystique, and remote location captures the imagination; their highly distinctive flavours are often imitated but seldom bettered. There have been few books on island whisky and none written in recent years.

Whisky

by Marc A. Hoffmann (2008)

Whisky and Other Spirits: Technology, Production and Marketing

It focuses on the science and technology of the process as well as the environment in which it is produced. Today, environmental concerns and sustainability of products has taken on a new level of importance. Traditional ways of packaging and marketing have also changed dramatically in recent years as the technology of packaging has moved from a staid bottle industry to spirit products that cross traditional beverage categories and packaging.

Whisky and Scotland

This witty, erudite and often lyrical toast to uisgebeatha, the Celts' 'water of life', takes us back into the mists of time when some happy man chanced upon the technique of producing a distillation from barley that rivalled the mead of the gods.

Whisky Argentino Anuario 2026

In Spanish: el primer libro que captura la esencia del whisky hecho en Argentina. Una obra que reúne historia, pasión y el presente de un movimiento que crece con fuerza. En números: 4 regiones geográficas; 12 provincias; 34 destilerías con su historia y producción anual de whisky. 45 expresiones con sus notas de cata. 117 páginas a todo color con datos únicos.

Whisky A Tasting Course: A New Way to Think – and Drink – Whisky

The best way to find out about whisky is by drinking it. Perfect for the whisky curious, this truly hands-on handbook helps you to discover your own personal whisky style, opening up a world of new whiskies to enjoy. Tailored tasting sessions steer you through the full spectrum of whisky's aromas and flavours - from the smoky tang of Islay peat to the sandalwood scents of Japanese oak.

Whisky Classified: Choosing Single Malts by Flavour

This book on single malt whisky makes an excellent guide for all whisky drinkers, from the novice to the connoisseur. Single malt whisky is the fastest expanding sector of the booming whisky market.

Whisky Distilleries of Denmark: A guide to whisky production in Denmark

Denmark may not be one of the first countries that comes to mind when you think of whisky — but it should be. This book by Gabriele Trucionyte takes you on a journey through the Danish whisky landscape, region by region, exploring the distilleries that are shaping the country’s growing reputation for craft spirits.

Whisky Dream: Waking a Giant

Waking up a Dream - putting Bruichladdich distillery back to its feet. I picked this book by chance and read it during the holidays. Well worth checking it out as it shows the story of Bruichladdich distillery prior to the purchase by Remy.

Whisky Enthusiasts' Manual - 3,000 BC Onwards

Whisky Eretico by Silvano Samaroli (in Italian)

Una riflessione sul whisky, sulle sue origini più antiche, sull'ortodossia delle regole che ne hanno strutturato l'approccio, nascondendone l'anima profondamente libera. Scritto da una delle figure più importanti e sui generis del mondo del whisky, un manifesto provocatorio e ironico che mira dritto all'essenza senza ipocrisie di sorta.

Whisky Island: A portrait of Islay and its whiskies

In Whisky Island, Islay's fascinating story is uncovered: from its history and stories of the many shipwrecks which litter its shores, to the beautiful wildlife, landscape and topography of the island revealed through intimate descriptions of the austerely beautiful and remote countryside.

Whisky Japan: The Essential Guide to the World's Most Exotic Whisky

Japanese whisky is finally getting the international recognition it deserves. Originally created to emulate the malts of Scotland, Japanese whiskies now hold a distinct and unique place among other world-class spirits.

Whisky Legends of Islay

This witty and diverting book, from musician and whisky expert Robin Laing, captivates the reader with folklore and history reflecting aspects of Islay life, all relating back to whisky.

Whisky Miscellany

by Iain Slinn (2004)

Whiskyopolis: The Rise, Fall and Resurgence of Campbeltown's Whisky Industry

A meticulously researched book about the history of scotch whisky in the town of Campbeltown. This book delves into the archives and tells the complete story of the town that was once the centre of the world’s whisky production - book by David Stirk.

Whisky Opus: The Definitive 21st-Century Reference to the World's Greatest Distilleries and their Whiskies

From Banffshire to Bangalore, take a look at the expanding world of whisky with The Whisky Opus. Find out all about the major whisky-producing countries and 175 of the world's best distilleries.

Whiskypedia: A Gazetteer of Scotch Whisky

Why does Scotch whisky taste as it does? Where do the flavours come from? How might they have changed over the years? The flavour of Scotch whisky is as much influenced by history, craft and tradition as it is by science. Whiskypedia explores these influences.

Whisky Rising: The Definitive Guide to the Finest Whiskies and Distillers of Japan

This fully updated guide by whisky authority and Japanese whisky expert Stefan Van Eycken takes you on a tour of some of the most coveted whiskies in the world.

Whisky Science: A Condensed Distillation

This is a book about the science behind whisky: its production, its measurement, and its flavor. The main purpose of this book is to review the current state of whisky science in the open literature. The focus is principally on chemistry, which describes molecular structures and their interactions, and chemical engineering which is concerned with realizing chemical processes on an industrial scale.

Whisky Smuggling on the Border

Whisky Smuggling and Illicit Distillation on the Middle March of Northumberland by John Philipson. This book may be difficult to source/ find.

Whisky: Technology, Production and Marketing

Whisky: Technology, Production and Marketing explains in technical terms the science and technology of producing whisky, combined with information from industry experts on successfully marketing the product. World experts in Scotch whisky provide detailed insight into whisky production, from the processing of raw materials to the fermentation, distillation, maturation, blending, production of co-products, and quality testing, as well as important information on the methodology used for packaging and marketing whisky in the twenty-first century.

Whisky: The Connoisseur's Journal

This handsome cellar guide and tasting notebook is a complete resource for the whisky lover.

Whisky: The Definitive World Guide

In this sumptuous coffee-table guide from the world's bestselling whisky writer, Michael Jackson reveals the secrets of the aromas and flavours found in whisky, the stories behind great distilleries around the world, and offers his expert tasting notes for their must-try whiskies.

Whisky: The First Definitive Book on Whisky

This is in the opinion of many whisky writers and experts the finest whisky book ever written. It is certainly the first written from the point of view of the consumer and is thus hugely historically significant.

Whisky: The Manual

This highly accessible and enjoyable guide is full of practical and fascinating information about how to enjoy whisky. All whisky styles are covered, including (just whisper it) blends. Along the way a good few myths are exploded, including the idea that whisky has to be taken neat. In 'What to Drink', Dave Broom explores flavour camps - how to understand a style of whisky - and moves on to provide extensive tasting notes of the major brands, demonstrating whisky's extraordinary diversity.

Whisky Today

by Michael Gill (2006)

Whisky Wit and Wisdom: Light and Quirky Stories from Inside the Whisky

Deals with the whisky world's lighter and quirkier side. Contains wit and interesting pithy comments and history about whisky.

Wood, Whiskey and Wine: A History of Barrels

For over 2,000 years barrels have been used to store and transport a diverse array of commodities around the earth. The story of the barrel - from its earliest form, crafted by the Celtic tribes of northern Europe in the first millennium BC, to its contemporary uses - sheds light on the history of human development and technology.

Wort, Worms and Washbacks: Memoirs from the Stillhouse

The memoirs of John McDougall, one of Scotland's best known whisky distillers. The book covers his time in the industry from 1963 to 1999, during which McDougall has worked in distilleries in Speyside, Ayrshire, Islay and Campbeltown, before setting up his own business in Kelso.