Some flavours just belong together—and whisky with hints of chocolate is one of them. Rich, smooth, and oh-so-decadent, these expressions carry notes of cocoa, coffee, and vanilla that make each sip feel like dessert in a glass. Perfect for both whisky lovers and those just starting to explore, these bottles bring out the comforting, indulgent side of the spirit. This International Chocolate Day 2025, raise a glass to these chocolate-forward whiskies that prove sometimes the sweetest pleasures come in a dram.
5 Whiskies With Chocolate Notes
The Glenlivet 18-Year-Old
A classic single malt that’s both elegant and full of flavour, The Glenlivet 18 is one to savour slowly. Aged in American oak and ex-sherry casks, it offers a balance of citrus brightness and rich, chocolatey depth. Think dark chocolate raisins, sweet vanilla, and warm spice wrapped into a silky finish.
Tasting Highlights:
- Nose: Tropical fruit, plums, dark chocolate, vanilla
- Flavour: Citrus, cocoa, cinnamon spice
- Finish: Long, with raisins and spice
Price: Around INR 9,000 (Gurgaon); INR 15,500 (Mumbai)
Chivas Regal 18-Year-Old
If you’re after something smooth and layered, Chivas 18 is a treat. It’s often described as a “chocolate lover’s whisky,” with dark chocolate, caramel, and dried fruit notes leading the way. The palate is rich and dessert-like, finishing long and sweet with just a hint of smoke.
Tasting Highlights:
- Nose: Dark chocolate, dried fruits, toffee, vanilla
- Flavour: Butterscotch, caramel, candied orange, gentle spice
- Finish: Sweet, warm, lingering
Price: INR 10,500–12,000 (Gurgaon); INR 17,000–19,000 (Mumbai)
Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition
Born from a collaboration with a local craft brewer, Jameson Caskmates is aged in stout-seasoned barrels—giving it a chocolatey, malty twist. Expect smooth Jameson character with added layers of cocoa, hazelnut, butterscotch, and creamy milk chocolate. It’s approachable, versatile, and perfect neat, on ice, or in a cocktail.
Tasting Highlights:
- Nose: Fresh hay, orchard fruits, hazelnut, milk chocolate
- Flavour: Cocoa, butterscotch, a touch of hops
- Finish: Long, bittersweet, chocolatey
Price: Varies by city, but generally more affordable than the 18-year-olds above
Aberlour A’bunadh
For fans of bold, sherry-cask whiskies, Aberlour A’bunadh is a chocolate bomb. Cask-strength and non-chill filtered, it’s rich with flavours of dark cocoa, dried cherries, and warming spice. Imagine sipping liquid fruit-and-nut chocolate with a fiery kick—intense, but unforgettable.
Tasting Highlights:
- Nose: Dark chocolate, dried fruit, cinnamon
- Flavour: Rich cocoa, orange zest, nutty sherry sweetness
- Finish: Long, warming, and slightly spicy
Price: ~INR 12,000–15,000 (depending on batch)
Dalmore 12-Year-Old
Known for its luxurious style, Dalmore 12 spends time in both bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, giving it a velvety, dessert-like profile. Expect smooth layers of chocolate orange, roasted coffee, and nutmeg—making it a go-to for anyone who likes their whisky on the indulgent side.
Tasting Highlights:
- Nose: Citrus, coffee, chocolate
- Flavour: Dark cocoa, vanilla, orange peel, spice
- Finish: Sweet, elegant, slightly nutty
Price: ~INR 8,500–10,500 in India
