Whiskey, with its storied heritage and complex flavor spectrum, remains one of the world’s most cherished spirits. Even amid shifting markets and changing economic tides, global demand has held strong. In 2024, several nations according to Yahoo Finance continue to lead in whisky consumption, each reflecting its own unique cultural connection to this iconic drink. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 countries driving the world’s enduring passion for their Old-Fashioneds!
10. Canada – 1.19 liters per person
Home to Crown Royal—one of the world’s most popular whiskey brands—Canada is known for producing some of the most distinctive and innovative whiskies on the market. While Scotch enjoys a strong following, Canadians also have a growing taste for American whiskey, importing $76 million worth of it from the United States in 2022.
9. India – 1.24 liters per person
India is the largest whiskey-consuming nation in the world, accounting for nearly half of global whiskey consumption. In 2022, it also surpassed France to become the top importer of Scotch whisky, bringing in over 219 million bottles—a remarkable 60% increase from the 136 million bottles imported the previous year.
8. Ireland – 1.24 liters per person
Once considered the global capital of whiskey, Ireland is now experiencing a remarkable revival. The country has expanded from just two operational distilleries—Bushmills and Midleton—to around 45 today, with many more planned. This resurgence is reflected in export performance as well, with the value of Irish whiskey exports surpassing €1 billion ($1.1 billion) for the first time in 2022.
7. United Kingdom – – 1.25 liters per person
Although the United Kingdom produces some of the finest whiskies in the world, it has also become a major destination for American whiskey exports. This surge followed the UK’s decision two years ago to lift a four-year tariff on U.S. whiskey, revitalizing transatlantic trade and boosting demand among British consumers.
6. United Arab Emirates – 1.27 liters per person
The UAE has rapidly evolved into a global hub for commerce, travel, and leisure. Its cosmopolitan mix of residents and booming tourism industry have fueled a growing appetite for premium spirits—whiskey in particular—cementing its place as a key market for luxury alcohol consumption.
5. Spain – 1.29 liters per person
Spain’s passion for Scotch whisky runs deep, with Johnnie Walker and Ballantine’s ranking among the nation’s favorite brands. The country also boasts a small but growing whisky industry of its own—led by Destilerías y Crianza del Whisky, its most renowned distillery.
4. Australia – 1.13 liters per person
Australians have cultivated a strong taste for American whiskey, making the country one of the largest importers of U.S. whiskey in 2022, with imports valued at $117 million. The spirit’s popularity surged during the Covid-19 lockdowns, when American brands became a household favorite—led by the enduring dominance of Jack Daniel’s.
3. United States – 1.41 liters per person
Whiskey has long held a special place in American drinking culture. Last year alone, over 31 million nine-liter cases of American whiskey were sold nationwide, earning distillers nearly $5.3 billion in revenue. In Kentucky, bourbon stands as a cornerstone of the state’s economy—a $9 billion industry supporting more than 22,500 jobs. The state also collects over $286 million annually in tax revenue from its world-famous whiskey production.
2. Uruguay – 1.77 liters per person
Uruguay’s enduring love for whisky stems from its historical connection to Scottish immigrants and a long-standing appreciation for premium Scotch. The nation has also cultivated its own whisky industry, which typically imports Scotch in bulk, blends it with locally distilled spirits, and bottles the final product under domestic labels tailored for the local market.
1. France – 2.15 liters per person
France tops the global rankings for whiskey consumption, with an average of about 2.15 liters per person each year. Scotch remains the clear favorite, and in 2022, the country imported 205 million bottles—making it the world’s second-largest market for Scotch whisky after India overtook the lead. Among the most popular brands in France are William Peel, Ballantine’s, and Sir Edward’s, which dominate market share.
As we see from the data, Scotch whisky remains a global favorite, with cultural and economic factors influencing its consumption patterns in different countries. While some markets have seen a dip in demand, others, like India and Japan, are experiencing a surge in appreciation for this timeless spirit. Whether it’s enjoyed in celebratory settings or quiet, reflective moments, Scotch whisky continues to connect people across the world.
10 Great Whisky Cocktails
Time to go out and purchase a bottle and then make some great cocktails!
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