Purchase Blue Spot Whiskey in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

Blue Spot Whiskey, a beloved part of the renowned Spot Whiskey series, has garnered attention and admiration from whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. This cask-strength, single pot still Irish whiskey is rich in flavor and steeped in history, making it a must-try for both collectors and casual drinkers alike. For those in the UK, purchasing Blue Spot Whiskey can be a challenge due to its high demand and limited availability. This guide provides everything you need to know about finding and purchasing Blue Spot Whiskey in the UK.

What Makes Blue Spot Whiskey Special?

Before diving into how and where to purchase Blue Spot Whiskey in the UK, it’s important to understand why it stands out. Released by Mitchell & Son, Blue Spot is a vibrant cask-strength whiskey that carries the history of the Spot Whiskey range. It is part of the resurgence of the traditional “Spot” whiskeys that were once widely available in Ireland.

Key Features of Blue Spot Whiskey:

• Single Pot Still: A traditional style of Irish whiskey made from both malted and unmalted barley.
• Cask Strength: Bottled without dilution, Blue Spot is typically released at around 58-59% ABV.
• Matured in Three Casks: Bourbon, sherry, and Madeira casks give this whiskey a complex flavor profile.
• Aged for Seven Years: While relatively young, the blend of cask finishes results in a rich and layered experience.

Flavor Profile:

• Nose: Fresh aromas of fruit, tropical sweetness, and spice.
• Palate: Full-bodied with flavors of vanilla, dried fruit, and spices from the cask aging process.
• Finish: Long and warming with a mix of sweet and spicy notes.

Now that you understand why Blue Spot Whiskey is highly sought after, let’s explore how to get your hands on a bottle in the UK.

Where to Purchase Blue Spot Whiskey in the UK

Blue Spot Whiskey is not as readily available as other mainstream Irish whiskeys due to its limited releases and high demand. However, there are several reliable online retailers and physical stores that offer Blue Spot in the UK.

1. Online Whiskey Retailers

Online shopping is one of the most convenient ways to buy Blue Spot Whiskey. Many specialized whiskey retailers stock limited edition and hard-to-find whiskeys, including Blue Spot. Here are some trusted websites where you can check for availability:

The Whisky Exchange

• Website: The Whisky Exchange
• Description: Known for its extensive collection of rare and premium whiskeys, The Whisky Exchange frequently offers Blue Spot as part of its Irish whiskey selection. While stocks can run out quickly, it’s worth signing up for email alerts when the whiskey becomes available again.

Master of Malt

• Website: Thesinglemalt Shop
• Description: Another highly reputable online retailer, Master of Malt often stocks Blue Spot Whiskey when available. You can check their website for real-time inventory and order directly. They also provide reviews and tasting notes to help guide your purchase.

Hard to Find Whisky

• Website: Hard to Find Whisky
• Description: As the name suggests, this retailer specializes in rare and limited-edition whiskeys. Blue Spot is occasionally in stock, and they offer a helpful wishlist feature where you can add the product and get notified when it’s back in stock.

Irish Malts

• Website: Irish Malts
• Description: Dedicated to Irish whiskey, Irish Malts is a great place to find the entire Spot range. They frequently stock Blue Spot and offer international shipping, making it an excellent option for UK buyers looking for authentic Irish whiskey.

2. Physical Retail Stores in the UK

If you prefer to shop in person, there are a few high-end liquor stores and whiskey specialists in the UK where you might find Blue Spot Whiskey on the shelves:

The Whisky Shop

• Location: Nationwide
• Description: With multiple locations across the UK, The Whisky Shop often carries Blue Spot Whiskey, especially in their premium outlets. You can also check their website for availability before visiting the store.

Harrods

• Location: London
• Description: For those in or visiting London, the luxury department store Harrods has an exceptional spirits department. Blue Spot may not always be available, but it’s worth a visit for their curated selection of premium whiskeys.

Fortnum & Mason

• Location: London
• Description: Another iconic London retailer, Fortnum & Mason stocks a variety of rare and premium spirits. Blue Spot Whiskey is sometimes available, and the store offers a unique shopping experience for those looking to buy exclusive products.

3. Auctions and Whiskey Marketplaces

For collectors or those seeking older or limited-edition releases of Blue Spot, whiskey auctions and marketplaces can be a great option. These platforms often feature rare bottles that are not available in stores.

Whisky Auctioneer

• Website: Whisky Auctioneer
• Description: One of the most popular online whiskey auction sites, Whisky Auctioneer frequently features Blue Spot bottles. You can place bids on bottles or buy them outright if available.

Scotch Whisky Auctions

• Website: Scotch Whisky Auctions
• Description: Despite focusing on Scotch whiskies, this auction site occasionally offers Irish whiskeys, including Blue Spot. Keep an eye on upcoming auctions to see if Blue Spot appears.

Factors to Consider When Buying Blue Spot Whiskey

Before you make a purchase, here are a few important things to keep in mind:

1. Pricing

Blue Spot Whiskey is a premium product, and its price reflects that. In the UK, prices can range between £75 and £150 depending on the retailer and availability. Limited releases or special editions may cost more, especially in auctions or secondary markets.

2. Availability

Due to its limited production, Blue Spot is often sold out quickly. If you find it in stock at a retailer, it’s best to act fast. Signing up for notifications on various platforms can help ensure you don’t miss out when it becomes available again.

3. Shipping and Delivery

When purchasing online, always check the shipping policies, especially if you’re ordering from Ireland or an international retailer. Some stores may charge higher delivery fees or have restrictions on shipping alcohol to certain regions in the UK.

4. Authenticity

When buying from auction sites or secondary markets, always ensure that the whiskey is authentic and that the seller is reputable. Counterfeit whiskey is a risk in the luxury spirits market, so look for trusted sellers with good reviews.

Alternatives to Blue Spot Whiskey

If you are unable to find Blue Spot Whiskey, the rest of the Spot Whiskey range offers excellent alternatives:

• Green Spot: A lighter and more affordable single pot still whiskey with a classic flavor profile.
• Yellow Spot: A 12-year-old whiskey with a rich and fruity flavor, finished in Malaga wine casks.
• Red Spot: A 15-year-old whiskey matured in bourbon, sherry, and Marsala wine casks, offering a complex and robust tasting experience.

Each of these whiskeys carries the same legacy of quality and craftsmanship as Blue Spot, making them worthy alternatives if Blue Spot is out of stock.

Conclusion: How to Secure Your Blue Spot Whiskey in the UK

Blue Spot Whiskey is a highly sought-after and limited-edition Irish whiskey, making it a bit of a treasure hunt to find in the UK. By exploring online retailers, checking physical stores, and keeping an eye on auction sites, you can increase your chances of securing a bottle.

Quick Tips for Purchasing Blue Spot Whiskey in the UK:

• Shop Online: Check trusted retailers like The Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt, and Irish Malts.
• Visit Specialty Stores: High-end liquor stores like The Whisky Shop or Harrods may stock Blue Spot.
• Consider Auctions: For rare bottles, keep an eye on whiskey auction platforms like Whisky Auctioneer.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Stay informed by subscribing to notifications from your favorite retailers.

With some persistence and a bit of luck, you’ll soon be enjoying a dram of Blue Spot Whiskey, savoring its rich flavors and rich history in the comfort of your home.