When it comes to Scotch whisky, the sheer variety and range of options can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to build a collection that covers all the bases. At Film & Whiskey, we’ve reviewed over 400 whiskies, and today we’re narrowing it down to the best Scotch whiskies you can buy at every price point. Whether you're a newcomer to Scotch or a seasoned aficionado, we've got something for you in every budget range.
The Rules
To simplify the selection process, we’ve divided our recommendations into five price categories:
- Under $25
- $25 to $50
- $50 to $80
- $80 to $120
- Over $120
Within each range, we’ve picked out the Scotch whiskies that deliver the best flavor, complexity, and overall value. We’ve also included honorable mentions, so you have a few alternatives to consider.
The Picks
Under $25: Cutty Sark
Finding a good Scotch under $25 isn’t easy, but Cutty Sark stands out as a solid option. At around $17, this blended Scotch often gets overlooked, but as Brad says, “If you really just want to have some fun times on cheap Scotch, get yourself some Cutty Sark.” It’s an incredible mixer and works well for those casual sipping sessions. This might not be your go-to for savoring neat, but for cocktails and casual drinks, it’s a great pick.
$25 to $50: Speyburn 10 and Monkey Shoulder
In the $25 to $50 range, we have two standouts: Speyburn 10 and Monkey Shoulder. Speyburn 10 is an exceptional single malt that we scored around 40 out of 50. “I don’t know how they sell it for so cheap,” Bob says, “but it freaking blew our minds.” At about $30, it offers incredible value with its rich, balanced flavors that rival much more expensive bottles.
For those who prefer blended Scotch, Monkey Shoulder is your best bet. “Easily the best blended Scotch in this price range,” Brad notes. With its smooth, malty character and hints of vanilla, Monkey Shoulder is versatile enough to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in a mixed drink.
Brad also gave a shoutout to Jura 10-Year, a single malt that comes in at about $35. “Jura 10-Year is incredible, and I don’t want the price to go up,” he says. While it might be less known, it’s a fantastic whisky that’s worth seeking out.
$50 to $80: Talisker 10
The $50 to $80 range is packed with strong contenders, but Talisker 10 comes out on top. “There is a depth of flavor in the Talisker 10 that I loved,” Brad says. This single malt is priced at around $70 and delivers a powerful yet balanced experience, with smoky, peppery notes and a touch of sweetness. It’s a quintessential example of what a great Scotch should be at this price point.
In this range, we also considered Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 and Ardbeg 10, both of which are excellent. However, Talisker 10 offers the best combination of flavor and value. If you’re looking for a peated option, Ardbeg 10 is a solid alternative with its intense smoky character.
$80 to $120: Lagavulin 16 and Ardbeg Uigeadail
As we move into the $80 to $120 range, the competition heats up, but Lagavulin 16 takes the crown. “Lagavulin 16 is creamy and rich, with so many beautiful flavors going on,” Brad says. Priced at around $105, this is the barrel seagrass of Scotch—reliable, luxurious, and perfect for special occasions. Pair it with a beautifully seasoned steak, and you’re in for a life-changing experience.
Bob’s pick in this category is Ardbeg Uigeadail. “This is by far my highest-rated peated Scotch,” he says. Uigeadail balances Ardbeg’s signature smoke with a surprising sweetness, making it a unique and compelling choice. Both of these whiskies offer something special, so it really comes down to your personal preference—whether you lean towards the rich creaminess of Lagavulin or the complex smokiness of Ardbeg.
Honorable mention goes to Laphroaig Lore, which was our highest-rated Laphroaig for a long time and is another excellent choice for fans of peated whisky.
Over $120: Lagavulin 26 and Oban 18
Once you move past the $120 mark, Scotch whisky becomes a playground for the truly passionate (or the truly wealthy). At the high end, we recommend Lagavulin 26 and Oban 18. Lagavulin 26 is a rare gem that Brad describes as “a $2,400 bottle of whisky that I will never buy. But man, oh man, that pour was special.” It’s an extravagant choice, but if you ever get the chance to try it, don’t pass it up.
For something more accessible but still premium, Oban 18 is a great pickup at around $180. It’s balanced, complex, and delivers a refined whisky experience that’s perfect for those special moments when you want to savor something extraordinary.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or you’re ready to splurge, there’s a Scotch whisky out there for you. From the reliable Cutty Sark at under $25 to the luxurious Lagavulin 26, our picks cover every price point and offer something for every kind of whisky drinker. We hope this guide helps you build the perfect Scotch whisky collection, no matter your budget.
We’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite Scotch whiskies at these price points? Join the conversation on our social media channels, and for more whisky reviews and recommendations, be sure to check out the Film & Whiskey podcast. Cheers!
