Scotch lovers can find some of the best selections of their favorite pour in Boston. Whether you’re a fan of the peaty Scotch of Islay or the smoother variations from Speyside, check out these bars with incredible whisky selections in Boston.
Hops N Scotch
Hops N Scotch‘s playful name gives away the specialties of the house: beer and Scotch whisky. The easy-going vibes and lengthy scotch menu make this a hub for Brookline spirits lovers. Like all good whisky bars worth their salt, Hops N Scotch divides its menu by region. Sample drams from Islay, Campbeltown, the Lowlands or the Highlands. There’s a pour for every budget. Sip for as little as $10 or go ham with a $55 pour of Macallan Rare Cask. Each menu item has tasting notes so you know exactly what you’re in for and can choose drams to fit your palate best.
Scotch and Cigars (©Valiant Made)
The Last Hurrah
Visit the Omni Hotel and take a seat in one of Boston’s most famous whiskey bars. The Last Hurrah is a luxurious spot (think soft, leather upholstery and mahogany paneling) to sip Scotch on Boston’s historic Freedom Trail. There are more than 50 scotches on the back bar, and the bar staff can help guide you to the best whisky for your palate.
Citizen Public House And Oyster Bar
Who says you have to drink champagne with oysters? Why not combine the briny mollusks with peaty, smoky Scotch at Citizen Public House And Oyster Bar? This neighborhood tavern behind Fenway Park is a go-to spot for whisky lovers. The every changing whisk(e)y collection has more than 350 offerings, many from Scotland. There are two curated flights dedicated to Scottish libations. Try the “I Wanna Be A Baller, Scotch Caller” to sample the Blair Athol 23-year Special Release; Orphan Barrel “Foragers Keep” Pittyvaich 1993 and the Laphroig 25-year Cask Strength 2018 Edition. The “Keep Your Bearings Straight” features a trio of Compass Box pours.
Compass Box Pours (Courtesy Citizen Pub)
Worden Hall
Head to South Boston for American fare and a modest Scotch selection to pair with it. Worden Hall, named after a 19th Century guest house in Saratoga Springs, is the place to go for a casual meal and a glass of whisky. The menu caters to more mainstream Scotch lovers. Oban, Macallan, Dalwhinnie, and Johnny Walker are just a few of the brands available.
(©Andrew Seaman)
The Quiet Few
The Quiet Few is back open at 100% capacity both inside and outside, so hurry over and order an ounce or two of Scotland’s finest. This joint keeps it casual even though the spirits selection is top shelf. The average price for a Scotch pour here is about $16, making it an affordable place to celebrate National Scotch Day. Sip favorite brands like Balvenie, Lagavulin, and Bunnahabhain. Pair your dram with a plate of disco poutine waffle fries with chicken gravy and cheese curds.
Federal Wine & Spirits
Bring the party home for National Scotch Day by picking a bottle of your favorite Scotch at Federal Wine & Spirits, Boston’s premier spot for fine spirits. It has garnered attention from Whiskey Advocate for its splendid selection of Scotch. Each month Federal Wine & Spirits highlights a fine and rare spirit offering. For example, April’s selection was a bottling out of Speyside, Dailuane 11-year Scotch whisky; a 59% new release aged in sherry casks and well worth the $89 price tag.
Scotch at Home (©Taylor Brandon)
