A respected yet often overlooked Scotch whisky has earned major global acclaim. The Isle of Skye 25 Year Old has been awarded Best Blended Scotch (16+ Years) and Best Overall Blended Scotch Whisky at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) — one of the world’s most influential and respected spirits competitions.
Judges praised the whisky as “a beautifully crafted Scotch,” placing Isle of Skye 25 Year Old ahead of leading global competitors and reinforcing its reputation as one of Scotland’s most characterful blended Scotch whiskies. The SFWSC, judged blind and featuring over 1,500 whisky entries in 2025, remains a critical benchmark for consumers, collectors, and industry professionals.
Leonard Russell, Chairman & Managing Director of Ian Macleod Distillers, commented:
“As a family-owned Scotch whisky company, we have always focused on quality and long-term craft. Isle of Skye has been part of our business for generations. To have the 25-Year-Old recognised at this level, in a blind competition of such credibility, is meaningful. It reinforces the excellence of the whisky and supports our ambition to introduce Isle of Skye to more whisky drinkers around the world.”
The Isle of Skye 25 Year Old is crafted from mature whiskies sourced from both Skye and mainland Scotland, matured in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, and blended with a high malt content to deliver depth, richness, and refined character.
The broader Isle of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky range (40% ABV) draws inspiration from the landscapes and spirit of the Isle of Skye, combining island and mainland malts and grains to create blends renowned for richness, depth, and gentle peat influence.
Tasting Notes – Isle of Skye 25 Year Old
Nose: Rich oak, ginger, vanilla, red apple, citrus.
Palate: Rounded and fruity, with malt, apple, and light peat smoke.
Finish: Long, balanced, with subtle apricot notes.
RRP: £250 / $179 / €284 (70cl).
