Spirits writers have a tendency to wax poetic about certain expressions or distilleries. Perhaps it’s because we understand that a delicious dram is a reflection of not only the place where it comes from but also the people who made it.
That’s why January 25, 1759—the birthdate of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard—has become a sacred holiday for whisky lovers. Burns Night is traditionally marked with good Scotch, good food, and an appreciation for the poet who famously celebrated both. I’ve attended my share of lavish dinners honoring the poet, complete with readings from Burns’ work, including his famous “Address to a Haggis.”
This Sunday, I’ll be dutifully raising a glass of Scotch to toast Burns and I encourage you to do the same. If the mood strikes, you can even read some of his poems. Break out a special bottle you've been saving for a special occasion, or pick up one of our favorite Scotch whiskies that garnered high praise in the 2026 Men’s Journal Whiskey Awards.
While you’ll find some trusty standbys, like our best overall Scotch winner Ardbeg Ten, you’ll also discover some new bottles.
Here’s to Burns—the poet laureate of Scotch drinkers!
