Party season is in full swing. So what will you be drinking? 

Choosing what bottle to bring to an event – be it a dinner party, housewarming or weekend BBQ – is an important consideration. It shows off your personality, taste and how well you know the host. 

You want something not too safe but not too niche so that it dusts at the back of the drinks cabinet. Not too simple but also versatile enough that it caters to every guest. The answer? Smooth, scotch whisky. 

Known as liquid gold, whisky is more than a drink, it’s an experience everyone can enjoy. Bringing a quality whisky to a party not only showcases your good taste but also provides a conversation starter, a way to connect with others, and a means to share a bit of history and craftsmanship.

From summer gatherings to festive occasions, whisky works at any event all year round. But which is best to bring?

Whether you’re new to the whisky scene and want to impress, or are looking for a new expression outside of your usual go to, selecting the perfect bottle can elevate any gathering. 

Here are the best whiskies to bring to a party, whether you’re planning on sharing, gifting or sipping solo.

The key to choosing the right whisky lies in understanding the preferences of your fellow party-goers and the nature of the event. Is it a casual get-together, a formal dinner, or a celebration of a special occasion? Do your friends prefer something smooth and easy to sip, or are they fans of robust, smoky flavours? 

Our curated list covers a range of styles, ensuring there’s a perfect bottle for every scenario. So, pour yourself a dram and join us as we explore the best whiskies to bring to a party, ensuring your contribution is both appreciated and remembered.

For the whisky beginners and those who like things original. The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a celebration of our classic flavours, bound up in a creamy single malt scotch. It’s a symbol of freedom and tradition, a dedication to our founder George Smith who started it all.

Whisky from a variety of aged oak casks and first-fill American casks creates a distinct, sweet smoothness with hints of fruity tones and delicate zesty notes. It’s the perfect bottle to bring for those who are yet to discover the joy of whisky drinking, as well as a party where cocktails will be made a plenty. 

Sip with soda, in a Whisky Smash or a Scotch Mule alfresco this summer whilst the BBQ sizzles. Or pour into spice-infused boiling water for a Hot Toddy by the fire with friends.

Give the gift of something unexpected with The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve. Part finished in barrels that previously held Caribbean rum, this expression is an excellent choice for whisky lovers, rum drinkers and those who like to mix things up.

The summery taste of syrupy bananas, sweet pear and red apple is met with rich caramel. The ultimate spirit for warmer weather. Serve neat over ice or shake up a fruity cocktail to share. We love it in our Whisky Margarita, a drink designed for batching all summer long. We’re sure the host won’t mind if you take over cocktail hour for this exotic serve.

Heading to a spontaneous gathering? Rock up with a bottle of The Glenlivet 12 Year Old and bring the drink of the party. This smooth, fruity scotch is made for entertaining, with notes of pineapple and a balanced, creamy finish.

Versatile enough to sip on its own, in a mixer or shaken with ingredients from your host’s drinks cabinet, it’s the perfect expression to inspire an unplanned cocktail hour. Create the modern classic Paper Plane or raise a glass to the occasion with a sparkling twist on a French 75. It’s also an excellent base for a Whisky Sour, the original party cocktail.

Whether you’re bringing a bottle to drink, or looking for a gift to be remembered, The Glenlivet 15 Year Old ticks every box. Deep golden and distinctively rich, it’s an exotic liquid made for those who appreciate a quality whisky.

Selectively mature in French oak casks, this expression gains a unique, pleasing spiciness with buttery notes of sweet almond. It’s an excellent choice for hosts who enjoy making classic cocktails such as The Godfather and Vieux Carré. As well as those whose drink of choice is the Negroni. Encourage your host to swap from gin to scotch in the whisky alternative, the Boulevardier.

Finished in first-fill Oloroso Sherry, Troncais oak Cognac and Vintage Colheita Port casks, The Glenlivet 21 Year Old is a luscious, extra special whisky. Gift to your party host or open after dinner for a digestif drink shared with friends. 

Serve on the rocks and enjoy the rich spiced layers of sweet cinnamon, juicy sultanas and fragrant nutmeg, intertwined with caramelised pears and chocolate coated ginger. This bottle was made for sharing a love of whisky.

Discover more ways to be an excellent party guest including the best whiskies to gift and our guide to what to bring to a dinner party. And next time it’s your turn to host, make sure to shake up a whisky cocktail from our collection.