Whisky, an age-old spirit steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, has become a beloved beverage around the world. This rich history is in stark contrast to the bright lights of a joyless supermarket but not everyone can buy directly from a distillery.
With the popularity of whisky on the rise, many consumers are left wondering, can you find quality whiskies at your local supermarkets? Here we will dive into the world of supermarket whiskies, explore their offerings, and potential drawbacks. Let’s get started!
Do Supermarkets Have Good Whiskies?
Yes, and no. You’ll find many great whiskies on the supermarket shelf from a variety of well-known brands. Whether you’re looking for a smooth blended whisky or a beautifully peated single malt, you’ll find them all at the supermarket.
So why the hesitation in our answer? There are a few issues, with the first being a cost limit. Supermarkets know that they aren’t going to shift a lot of whisky bottles that are priced above £50, so they are barely sold.
For high-value whiskies, buyers are more likely to purchase from specialty whisky sites, dedicated stores or distilleries. It means that if you wanted a premium bottle of whisky, your local supermarket almost certainly won’t stock it.
The other issue is selection. Supermarkets will only dedicate a certain amount of shelf space to whisky which limits the brands they offer. They also focus on more famous brands too such as Glenfiddich, Jura and Glenlivet.
It means that a whisky-lover has probably already tasted all the whiskies a supermarket sells. So do supermarkets have good whiskies? In the £30-£50 range they have plenty but if you wanted something a little more special, you may need to look elsewhere.
Pros and Cons of Buying Supermarket Whisky
Still on the fence about where to buy your whisky from? If so, let’s check out the pros and cons to make your life a little easier.
Pros of Purchasing Whisky from Supermarkets
Convenience – One of the most significant advantages of buying whisky from supermarkets is the convenience factor. You can browse and purchase whisky alongside your regular grocery shopping, saving you time and effort.
Accessible Pricing – Supermarkets often provide competitive pricing on popular whisky brands. This makes it more affordable for whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike to explore different options without breaking the bank.
Decent Variety – While a little limited, large supermarkets so still carry an array of whisky types, from Scotch to Irish to American. This variety allows consumers to experiment with different styles and regions without having to visit specialty liquor stores.
Special Offers – Supermarkets frequently offer special promotions and discounts on alcohol, including whisky. Seasonal sales, loyalty programs, and bundle deals can make purchasing quality whisky more affordable.
Online Shopping – Some supermarkets have embraced e-commerce, enabling customers to order whisky online for home delivery or pickup. This convenience is especially valuable for those who might not have a physical supermarket nearby.
Pros of Purchasing Whisky from Supermarkets
Limited Selection – While supermarkets have broadened their whisky offerings, they may still have a more limited selection compared to dedicated liquor stores or online specialty retailers. Rare or highly specialized whiskies will not be available.
Lack of Expertise – While some supermarket staff members are knowledgeable about whisky, they might not have the same level of expertise as staff in dedicated liquor stores. This can impact the quality of recommendations and advice given to customers.
Storage Conditions – Whisky is sensitive to temperature and light, which can affect its flavor and quality over time. Supermarkets might not always offer the best storage conditions, potentially compromising the integrity of the whisky.
Authenticity and Quality – While many supermarkets carry reputable brands, some may also stock lower-quality or generic whiskies that lack the depth of flavor and craftsmanship found in premium options. It’s essential for consumers to do their research to ensure they are getting a quality product.
Should I Buy Supermarket Whisky?
It depends on who you are and what you’re looking for. If you’re new to whiskies and want to try a high-quality bottle, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with buying supermarket whisky. You’ll find a wide range of whiskies to enjoy.
If you’re buying for someone else, you won’t go wrong with a top-shelf whisky. That being said, a whisky lover has probably tried every whisky there. If you wanted to make your present a little more special, consider buying from somewhere else to get them a whisky they may never have tried.
Final Thoughts
Supermarkets in the UK have undoubtedly become a more accessible and convenient option for purchasing whisky, offering a range of choices to suit various tastes and budgets.
While there are notable advantages to buying whisky from supermarkets, such as convenience and competitive pricing, it’s essential for consumers to be aware of potential drawbacks, such as limited selection and potential compromises in storage conditions.
While “good” is subjective, there will always be a range of high-quality whiskies in supermarkets. But if you want something a little rarer or more special, consider looking online or visiting a specialty retailer instead.