As a whiskey enthusiast, I can say that pairing fine whiskey with a well-chosen cigar elevates the experience. This article lists the top 10 most expensive whiskeys in the US. These whiskeys, from rare single malt scotches to exclusive bourbons, have been aged for decades and are highly sought-after. We’ve also included a recommended cigar pairing for each whiskey to complement their complex flavors and rich aromas.

1. The Macallan 1946 – This rare single malt whiskey from Scotches is widely regarded as one of the world’s finest and most expensive whiskeys. This particular expression is known for its rich, fruity flavor and smooth finish, with notes of oak, vanilla, and spice complementing the whiskey’s signature sweetness.

The Macallan 1946 has received praise from many notable figures in the world of whiskey and beyond. It’s rumored that legendary Cuban leader Fidel Castro was a fan of this particular expression, and would often pair it with a fine Cuban cigar. The brand and type of cigar he preferred are not known, but it’s said that he often recommended this pairing to friends and associates.

With a price tag of over $460,000, the Macallan 1946 is a rare and highly coveted whiskey that is typically only available through auction. It’s exceptional taste and unique history make it a must-have for serious whiskey collectors and enthusiasts.

2. The Macallan 1926 – Considered one of the rarest and most expensive whiskeys in the world, the Macallan 1926 is highly sought after by whiskey collectors and enthusiasts alike. This single malt whiskey from Scotland is known for its complex, multi-layered flavor profile, featuring notes of dried fruit, spice, and a hint of peat smoke.

Famous figures such as Sir Elton John and Jay-Z have been known to praise the Macallan 1926, with Jay-Z reportedly spending over $500,000 on a single bottle. It’s rumored that he paired this exquisite whiskey with a cigar from the Cohiba brand, a favorite among cigar aficionados.

With only 40 bottles ever produced, the Macallan 1926 is an incredibly rare and exclusive whiskey. Its value has only continued to increase over time, with one bottle selling at auction for a record-breaking $1.2 million in 2019. For those lucky enough to taste it, the Macallan 1926 is an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of what a single malt whiskey can be.

3. The Glenlivet 1943 – This exceptional single malt whiskey from Scotland is highly coveted among whiskey connoisseurs for its unique flavor profile and rarity. The Glenlivet 1943 is known for its smooth and velvety texture, with a delightful honeyed sweetness and subtle notes of vanilla and caramel. Its rich aroma features hints of tropical fruits and spices that perfectly complement the whiskey’s complex flavor profile.

Famous whiskey enthusiasts like Charles III King of the United Kingdom have praised The Glenlivet brand, which has been in production since 1824. Although it’s unclear if he has specifically tried the 1943 expression, it’s not hard to imagine him enjoying it alongside a cigar from one of his preferred brands, like Davidoff or Cohiba.

With only 40 bottles produced, The Glenlivet 1943 is a highly exclusive whiskey that commands a price of over $30,000. It’s a rare and treasured addition to any whiskey collection, showcasing the best of what a single malt whiskey can offer.

4. The Balvenie 50-Year-Old – This extraordinary single malt whiskey from Scotland is aged for an impressive 50 years, resulting in a complex and rich flavor profile that has garnered attention from whiskey enthusiasts and collectors around the world. The Balvenie 50-Year-Old is known for its woody notes, with hints of spice and dark fruit that perfectly balance its smooth, velvety texture.

Famous figures such as British actor Sir Ian McKellen and American director Steven Spielberg have been known to enjoy The Balvenie brand. While it’s unclear if they have tried the 50-Year-Old expression, it’s easy to imagine them pairing it with a cigar from a brand like Arturo Fuente or Montecristo.

With a price tag of over $40,000, The Balvenie 50-Year-Old is a highly prized and sought-after whiskey. Its rarity, exceptional taste, and impressive age make it a must-have for any serious whiskey collector or enthusiast.

5. Old Rip Van Winkle 25-Year-Old – This exceptional bourbon whiskey from Kentucky is aged for a quarter of a century, resulting in a smooth and mellow flavor profile that has made it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. The Old Rip Van Winkle 25-Year-Old is known for its distinct caramel finish and notes of vanilla and oak that perfectly balance its sweetness.

Famous figures such as former US President Barack Obama have been known to appreciate the finer things in life, including bourbon whiskey. While it’s unclear if he has tried the Old Rip Van Winkle 25-Year-Old Expression specifically, it’s not hard to imagine him pairing it with a cigar from a brand like Ashton or Romeo y Julieta.

With a price tag of over $1,800, the Old Rip Van Winkle 25-Year-Old is a highly sought-after bourbon whiskey that is a must-have for serious bourbon enthusiasts. Its exceptional taste and long aging process make it a true gem in the world of whiskey.

6. Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year – This limited-edition bourbon whiskey from Kentucky is aged for an impressive 23 years, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture that perfectly complements its rich, oaky flavor. The Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year is known for its complex flavor profile, featuring notes of vanilla, caramel, and dark fruit that create a perfect balance.

Famous whiskey enthusiasts like American actor Matthew McConaughey have been known to appreciate the quality of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve. While it’s unclear if he has specifically recommended a cigar pairing, a bold and robust cigar from a brand like theirs Pappy, Partagas, or Hoyo de Monterrey would likely complement the whiskey’s strong flavor.

With a price tag of over $3,000, Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Year is a highly coveted and exclusive bourbon whiskey. Its long aging process and exceptional taste make it a prized possession for any serious whiskey collector or enthusiast.

7. The Macallan 1951 – This highly sought-after single malt whiskey from Scotland is known for its rich and fruity flavor profile, with a smooth and creamy finish that perfectly balances its sweetness. The Macallan 1951 features a complex and multi-layered taste, with hints of vanilla, honey, and dried fruit that create a unique and unforgettable experience.

Famous whiskey enthusiasts like British actor Sean Connery have been known to enjoy The Macallan brand, with Connery reportedly once purchasing a bottle of The Macallan 1951 for over $30,000. As for a recommended cigar pairing, a full-bodied and robust cigar from a brand like Cohiba or Arturo Fuente would likely complement the whiskey’s strong flavor.

With only 135 bottles ever produced, The Macallan 1951 is a rare and highly exclusive whiskey that commands a price of over $75,000. It’s exceptional taste and unique history make it a must-have for serious whiskey collectors and enthusiasts.

8. The Dalmore 62 – This remarkable single malt whiskey from Scotland is aged for over six decades, resulting in a rich and velvety texture that perfectly complements its complex and oaky flavor profile. The Dalmore 62 features a unique taste, with notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and dried fruit that create a truly unforgettable experience.

Famous figures like British actor Hugh Jackman have been known to appreciate the quality of The Dalmore brand, with Jackman reportedly being gifted a bottle of The Dalmore 62 on his 50th birthday. As for a recommended cigar pairing, a medium-bodied and flavorful cigar from a brand like Montecristo or Davidoff would likely complement the whiskey’s rich and complex flavor.

With a price tag of over $250,000, The Dalmore 62 is one of the most expensive and highly sought-after whiskeys in the world. Its rarity, exceptional taste, and impressive age make it a true gem in the world of whiskey and a prized possession for any serious whiskey collector or enthusiast.

9. Springbank 1919 – This exceptional single malt whiskey from Scotland is over a century old, resulting in a complex and deeply nuanced flavor profile that has made it one of the rarest and most expensive whiskeys in the world. The Springbank 1919 is known for its distinct woody taste, with hints of vanilla and spice that perfectly balance its smoky aroma.

Famous figures like American actor Nicholas Cage have been known to appreciate the quality of The Springbank brand, with Cage reportedly purchasing a bottle of The Springbank 1919 for over $78,000. As for a recommended cigar pairing, a full-bodied and flavorful cigar from a brand like Davidoff or Arturo Fuente would likely complement the whiskey’s rich and complex flavor.

With only four bottles ever produced, The Springbank 1919 is an incredibly rare and highly exclusive whiskey that commands a price of over $78,000. It’s exceptional taste and unique history make it a must-have for serious whiskey collectors and enthusiasts who seek out the rarest and most exquisite expressions in the world of whiskey.

10. The Glenfiddich 1937 – This remarkable single malt whiskey from Scotland has been aged for over seven decades, resulting in a smooth and velvety texture that perfectly complements its rich and fruity flavor profile. The Glenfiddich 1937 is known for its unique and complex taste, featuring notes of honey, dried fruit, and a subtle hint of peat smoke that creates a truly unforgettable experience.

While it’s unclear if any famous figures have specifically praised The Glenfiddich 1937, the brand itself is a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout its history. As for a recommended cigar pairing, a medium-bodied and flavorful cigar from a brand like Cohiba or Montecristo would likely complement the whiskey’s rich and fruity flavors.

With only 61 bottles ever produced, The Glenfiddich 1937 is an incredibly rare and exclusive whiskey that commands a price of over $71,000. It’s exceptional taste and impressive age make it a must-have for any serious whiskey collector or enthusiast who seeks out the most exquisite and rare expressions in the world of whiskey.

We hope that this list of the top 10 most expensive whiskeys in the USA has inspired you to explore the world of luxury spirits and indulge in the finest whiskeys. Remember, when it comes to enjoying these exceptional spirits, take your time, savor the flavors, and always enjoy them in moderation.

As a writer with over 20 years of experience, I am always thrilled to share my passion for whiskey and spirits with others. In the future, I look forward to bringing you even more articles that will take your breath away, as we delve deeper into the fascinating world of fine spirits. Until then, cheers! 

Oliver Brown