Fall 2019 Editors' Choice: Crown Royal, Michter's & Tyrconnell

In each issue of Whisky Advocate, the editors select three whiskies that we consider the most impressive, considering score, price, and availability. For Fall 2019, our Editors' Choice whiskies include a Canadian blend, a single barrel straight bourbon, and a sherry cask-finished Irish single malt.For all whiskies reviewed in the Fall 2019 issue, check out the full Buying Guide.

Outstanding Whiskies from Canada, Kentucky, and Ireland: Fall 2019

Crown Royal Noble Collection French Oak Cask-Finished93 points, 40% ABV, $60

The fourth in this series is finished in air-dried French oak. Hints of butterscotch become fruity, with tinges of vanilla as the nose opens. A luxurious creamy palate develops peppery spices that dissolve into a sweet fruitiness with a glowing warmth in the back of the throat. A dynamic dram with lovely hot spices that advance, then retreat. The long finish is mildly sweet and spicy. —Davin de Kergommeaux

Michter's US*1 Barrel Strength Single Barrel Kentucky Straight (Barrel No. 17E866)93 points, 55.3% ABV, $75

Exudes a tantalizing and heady aroma of baking spices, crème brûlée, and toasted oak, with Nilla Wafers and Jordan almonds lending confectionary notes. The oily mouthfeel and chewy viscosity are powerful yet balanced, as the lovely caramelized sweetness of grilled pound cake meets blackberry, lemon oil, ginger, and flickers of allspice. Focused and seamless in its rich tapestry of flavors. —Jeffery Lindenmuth

Tyrconnell 16 year old Oloroso & Moscatel Cask-Finished92 points, 46% ABV, $100

Sweet sherry with a heady spring floral intensity, lemon, honey, and graham crackers, yet delicate as a dandelion seed in a summer breeze. The palate is seductively sweet, with honey, effervescent lemon sherbet, caramel, and spices, showing a little more of the wine, fruit, and hints of citrus. Distinctively different, the finish is initially drying, then the fruit returns with a grapefruit peel sharpness. Terrifically good dram. (18,000 bottles) —Jonny McCormick