Best Single Malt Whiskies To Pair With Chocolate This Christmas

There’s a certain poetry in pairing whisky with chocolate — the kind of indulgence that doesn’t shout, but whispers luxury

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FPJ Features Desk Updated: Saturday, December 20, 2025, 10:17 PM IST

There’s a certain poetry in pairing whisky with chocolate — the kind of indulgence that doesn’t shout, but whispers luxury. The warmth of a fine single malt folding into the melt of rich cocoa creates a sensory duet that transforms an ordinary night into a moment worth lingering over. With Christmas around the corner, here are standout single malts — from India’s rising stars to global icons — that pair effortlessly with fine chocolate.

Dark Chocolate Charmer

From South Seas Distillery comes Crazy Cock Indian Single Malt, a smooth yet flavour-rich whisky that strikes a harmonious balance of toasted oak, soft spice, and mellow sweetness. Its warmth and structure shine brightest with 70% dark chocolate, where the cocoa’s depth enhances the whisky’s layered character. Think roasted-nut pralines, dark chocolate with sea salt, or simple cocoa bars — Crazy Cock holds its own beautifully beside them.

Caramel-Lover’s Dream

A staple of luxury collections worldwide, Macallan Double Cask 12 offers luscious notes of dried fruits, toffee, and sweet spice from its sherry-seasoned maturation. Paired with caramel-filled chocolate or salted-caramel dark bars, it creates an indulgent fusion that feels like dessert in a glass — rich, smooth, and effortlessly opulent.

Perfect with Nutty Chocolate Classics

With warm layers of honey, spice, and dried fruits, Glenfiddich 15 brings a comforting richness that pairs wonderfully with hazelnut or almond chocolate. The nutty sweetness echoes the whisky’s own velvety depth, making this duo a crowd-pleaser for cosy evenings and celebratory nights alike.

Silky Match for Creamy Milk Chocolate

From the highlands of Jammu comes GianChand Single Malt, a delicate, fruit-forward creation from the house of DeVANS. With notes of pineapple candy, soft malt, vanilla, and gentle oak, it’s a whisky that prefers elegance over intensity. This refined profile makes it a natural companion to silky milk chocolate or white-chocolate truffles, where its subtle sweetness amplifies the chocolate’s creaminess without losing its own finesse.

Intense Dance with High-Cocoa Chocolate

Taiwan’s acclaimed Kavalan Sherry Oak thrives on boldness — dripping with flavours of raisin, dark fruit, and cocoa-like richness. Pairing it with 80–90% cocoa chocolate creates an intense, almost dramatic interaction where both whisky and chocolate elevate each other’s complexity.

Espresso Chocolate’s Perfect Match

For those who prefer power over subtlety, Aberlour A’bunadh brings cask-strength intensity layered with dark cherry, spice, and robust oak. Its depth finds a perfect companion in espresso-infused chocolate or mocha truffles, creating a pairing that feels bold, energetic, and unmistakably luxurious.

Published on: Sunday, December 21, 2025, 01:00 AM IST

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