For many whisky drinkers and whisk(e)y enthusiasts, there are some annual events and recurring appearances on the whisky calendar that we eagerly await each year. For example, it might be annual releases (such as the hotly-anticipated Diageo Special Releases bottlings), or the results from any of the many annual whisky awards and competitions. However, for whisky lovers who are really serious and passionate about this great drink, the annual release that we most look forward to each year is the new edition of the Malt Whisky Yearbook.
The Malt Whisky Yearbook for 2025 is out now and, as always, it’s an absolute ripper of a read. Editor, Ingvar Ronde, has again outdone himself with a superb publication. This year’s edition is all the more special in that it marks the 20th Edition. Yes, this wonderful resource has been informing, educating, and entertaining us now for twenty years!
So what makes this the “must-have” book? There are so many reasons, but the executive summary is that it is so many different things in one small package:
- It’s an encyclopedia of all the whisky distilleries around the world (874 of them!) with a particularly strong focus on the distilleries of Scotland. The listings tell the story and history of each distillery; notable achievements or developments; and notable bottlings and releases. Plus details on who owns the distillery, and its contact details, should you wish to get in touch.
- It’s up-to-date! Being an annual publication, it is updated each year with all appropriate amendments, updates, changes in facts/detail, and information. With the industry as dynamic and fluid as it’s ever been, you can turn to this book with confidence, knowing what you’re reading is current and correct.
- It has informative, well-researched, and well-written articles. The Malt Whisky Yearbook 2025 edition has brilliant feature articles from the likes of Charles Maclean, Nick Morgan, Gavin D Smith, Ian Wisniewski, Mark Jennings, and Kristiane Sherry. The first four there are some of the most recognised and accomplished whisky authors, each having published many books on the subject. And the last two are well-known writers in their own respective areas of expertise.
- It’s a “finger on the pulse” book – this year’s edition has contributions from seven knowledgeable whisky folks active on social media who discuss current trends, issues, challenges, tips, and hot-topics that so many of us are discussing and debating at present. It’s a window into whisky’s current zeitgeist.
- It also contains some fascinating industry facts and figures that are informative, telling, and even eye-opening if you’re keen to learn more about the actual industry behind the liquid. There’s data on sales, exports, production figures/capacities for distilleries, who owns which distilleries, and so on. It’s a must-have for any budding whisky brand ambassador, bartender, or drinks writer.
- It has a listing of recommended whisky shops and retailers all over the world, as well as listings of independent bottlers, brands, and other relevant entities.
- And, whilst we love and appreciate you enjoy spending time here at Whisky & Wisdom, we recognise there are other great whisky resources and websites out there, too! The Malt Whisky Yearbook has a listing of the author’s favourite whisky websites and Youtube accounts that he follows and holds as being excellent. And we certainly agree with and endorse his selections.
So, if there was a tag or buyline to summarise the Malt Whisky Yearbook in one sentence? Well, how about this one on the inside cover…
With Christmas around the corner, now’s the perfect time to grab a copy – either for the whisky-loving member of your family, or simply just yourself! You can grab a copy directly from the publisher at Malt Whisky Yearbook 2025. Happy reading!
Cheers,
AD
PS….interested in other whisky reads? You might like our reviews on:
The Highland Coast 700 Whisky Route – HC700
