Finding a good bottle of whisky at a bargain price is a real treat for any connoisseur or casual sipper alike. Tesco, one of the UK's leading retailers, is known for its extensive whisky selection, ranging from time-honoured classics to modern favourites. In this comprehensive guide, we've gathered the top tips and insights to help you navigate the Tesco whisky online or in-store, secure the best deals and save time.
You can also listen to Episode 41 of our Honest to a Malt Podcast: Tesco Whisky 'Every Wee Helps', which is available on Spotify, Apple and other podcast platforms.
Why Tesco is a Go-To Spot for Whisky Bargains
Tesco's buying power and extensive network mean that they can offer some of the most competitive prices on whisky. From premium single malts to budget-friendly blends, there's something to suit every palate and pocket. Additionally, Tesco frequently runs promotions and discounts, making it a hotspot for whisky fans looking for quality at a great value.
Top Tesco Whisky Deals to Look Out For
Our Tesco whisky picks of April 2024
Single Malt Offers
Single malts are a favorite among whisky lovers, and Tesco often features deals on renowned distilleries. Keep an eye out for discounts on brands like Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Dalwhinnie, especially during holiday seasons or special events.
Bunnahabhain Islay Stiùireadair Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Go for something coastal with this unpeated, sherried and salty dram. The Bunnahabhain Islay Stiùireadair Single Malt brings caramel, raisins, melted sugar and brine on the nose, then on the palate it's nutty, with cinnamon, sea salt and honey. A little spice and a whollop of sherry on the finish. Coming in at 46.3% abv, so packing more flavour, it's reduced down to £26.50 on Clubcard. Old Pulteney Twelve Years Old Single Malt is similar, down to £28 on Clubcard deal. Whilst it has an age statement the higher abv on the Bunnahabhain delivers more flavour. Both unpeated, the Old Pulteney is made in ex-bourbon casks and brings fresh brine, toffee and salty sea air, honey, vanilla and spicy fruit.
Ardbeg 10 Year Old Single Malt Whisky
When it's reduced to around £40, it is excellent value. A modern classic the Ardbeg 10 Year Old from Islay, is a crisp, sweet, peat monster with bags of smokiness. Currently £40.50 on Clubbard deal.
Laphroaig Islay 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Fancy something peated? The Laphroaig Islay Select Single Malt is reduced to £31 (down from £41) on clubcard. This sweet, smoky, peaty and oaky whisky is a real sharpener. It's a mixture of cask types and comes in at 40% abv.
Glen Moray Speyside Single Malt
A staple budget whisky on price, but not on taste, this Glen Moray Speyside, comes in under £20. Just £19.75 on Clubcard. Light and sweet with citrus and biscuit notes. Creamy toffee and some blackcurrant give the 40% abv a lift. Glenfiddich 12 is similar and is currently on a deal down to £31 on Clubcard
Glen Moray Twisted Wine Single Malt Whisky
The Glen Moray Twisted Vine is very tasty and reduced to £24 on Clubcard. Easily it punches above it's 40% abv. The use of cognac casks brings dried fruit, nuts and spice. It's mouth-coating and has a coffee tiramisu note running through the nose to palate. It's not on offer, but is delicious!
Glenmorangie Lasanta Single Malt Whisky
Glenmorangie Lasanta, a 12 year old expression, you will enjoy sun dried sweetness, spice radiating with raisins, honeycomb, and cinnamon. A really lovely looking bottle and label, currently reduced to £37.50 from £51 on a Clubcard deal.
Cotswolds Distillery Single Malt Whisky
An exceptional English whisky, and one when reduced down to £30, that is a no-brainer, the Cotswolds Distillery Single Malt is made from 100% locally grown, floor-malted barley, distilled twice in our bespoke copper pot stills, then aged in first-fill Kentucky ex-Bourbon barrels and highly active shaved, toasted and re-charred American Oak red wine casks. The nose gives malt, cereal and porridge, before orange and lemon, and some floral notes.
Full and creamy to taste with the orange, lemon continuing and black pepper. A lovely vanilla custard note dwells.
Blended Whisky Offers
Blends can provide exceptional value for money without compromising on taste. Tesco frequently offers specials on popular brands such as Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, and Monkey Shoulder. Checking the end aisles and promotional sections can lead to great finds.
Toki Suntory Whisky Blended Japanese
Lovely in a high-ball Toki Suntory blended whisky is reduced to £28 on a Clubcard deal. Sweet and savoury balanced, you will find honey, green apples and basil on the nose. Grapefruit, green grapes, peppermint, thyme on the palate and a ginger, vanilla, oak and pepper on the finish. Perfect with soda, or lemonade.
Bourbon Whisky Offers
Eagle Rare Single Barrel 10 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey
Eagle Rare 10, yes it's on offer, and is £32.50 on Clubcard deal. At 45% for a 10 year old bourbon it is outstanding value. You'll get toasted oak on the nose, orange peel and maple syrup. It's more complex than other bourbons, but still easy to sip and you will find vanilla, honey, walnuts, spice, leather and red fruit in the palate and finish. Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select Tennessee Whiskey is also reduced to £37 (from £47) on Clubcard deal, if you fancy something different, or Elijah Craig 47% is down to £32 from £42 on Clubcard.
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon Whiskey
Wild Turkey 101 is on offer and reduced from £34 to £25.50 on clubcard offer. That is superb value for an above average staple bourbon. Expect layers of caramel, toffee, vanilla, orange with a little spice and pepper.
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
The cheapest bourbon we are recommending on offer. This Buffalo Trace 40% is reduced to £19 on Clubcard deal. Spicy and sweet, with toffee, coffee, caramel and chocolate. It's creamy, but with some cinnamon, and a little apple. Good value at this price for a bourbon.
Tesco's Own Brand Selections
Don't overlook Tesco's own brand of whiskies, which often present the best value for money. With a range that includes both single malts and blends, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the budget-conscious shopper.
Tesco Special Reserve Scotch Whisky
Whilst it is mega cheap, the Tesco Special Reserve Scotch Whisky at £14.00, is 3 years old or more and grain. It will be very sweet and we would advise spending more and getting something else, unless you drink exclusively with mixer.
Smart Buying Strategies for Tesco Whisky Shoppers
Dig Into Whisky Festivals
Tesco participates in whisky festivals, offering a concentrated selection of deals. These are prime times to stock up on your favorite bottles or to try something new at a lower risk.
Leverage Clubcard Points and Vouchers
If you're a Tesco Clubcard holder, you can use your points and vouchers to secure discounts on whisky purchases. Sometimes, exclusive deals are available for Clubcard members, so it's worth signing up if you haven't already.
Keep an Eye on Seasonal Sales
Like many retailers, Tesco has sale periods where discounts are more prevalent. Major holidays like Christmas, New Year, Father's Day, and even supermarket anniversaries can see prices on whisky drop significantly.
Making the Most of Online Tesco Whisky Purchases
In addition to in-store bargains, Tesco's online platform offers convenience and sometimes exclusive online discounts. Sign up for email alerts to stay informed about upcoming sales and special offers right in your inbox.
Our View: Savvy Shopping for Your Perfect Tesco Whisky
Exploring Tesco's whisky range can lead you to some fantastic bargains, especially when armed with the inside knowledge shared in this guide. Whether you're a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of this storied spirit, taking advantage of Tesco's deals ensures that you get to enjoy decent whiskies without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Whisky From Tesco
What is the best time of year to buy whisky from Tesco?
The best times to buy whisky from Tesco are during whisky festivals, seasonal sales, and the holiday season when discounts are commonly available.
Can I use Tesco Clubcard points to buy whisky?
Yes, you can use Tesco Clubcard points and vouchers to save money on whisky purchases, and sometimes special deals are offered to Clubcard holders.
Does Tesco offer exclusive online whisky deals?
Tesco's online store may provide exclusive discounts that are not available in-store, so it's a good idea to check their website and sign up for email notifications.
