Every year, we set out on a mission to uncover the whiskeys that truly stand out—those rare finds and reliable favorites that whiskey lovers simply can’t miss. Our 3rd Annual Top 10 “Can’t Miss” Whiskeys list represents the best of the best: pours that impressed us not only with exceptional craftsmanship, but with their accessibility and undeniable wow factor.

We focused on three key pillars when creating our yearly lineup of "new to Exit 9" whiskeys. First, quality—from depth of flavor to balance and finish, only the most impressive expressions made the cut. Second, availability—because a great whiskey isn’t much use if no one can get their hands on it. And finally, the elusive wow factor—that instant, memorable spark that turns a sip into an experience.

Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just beginning your whiskey journey, these are the bottles worth seeking out. Let's dive into the ten whiskeys that earned their place at the top.