3 Whiskey Destinations You Didn’t See Coming

Whiskey travel’s having a glow-up...and it’s not just happening in Kentucky or Islay.

Whiskey travel used to mean a short list: Kentucky, Scotland, maybe Ireland if you were feeling adventurous. But the category has grown up. Today’s whiskey travelers are looking beyond the obvious, drawn to places where distilling traditions are evolving, creativity is high, and the experience feels earned rather than packaged.

These destinations qualify as unexpected not because they lack pedigree, but because they’re still flying under the radar. They reward curiosity, not crowds.

If this kind of off-the-beaten-path sipping is your style, you’ll find more inspiration inside my Whiskey Travel Hub, where I collect destination guides and planning insights for whiskey-forward trips.

And, if you’re ready to sip something new and explore a little further, here are three whiskey destinations worth the miles (or at least a spot on your wish list):

Cognac, France: An Unexpected Whiskey Destination

Yes, that Cognac. The brandy capital is now home to a wave of up-and-coming whiskey producers bringing elegance, complexity, and just a touch of French drama to the glass. Plus: you’re still surrounded by vineyards and châteaux. Tough life.

Check Out:

• Brenne Whisky – Crafted at a third-generation farm distillery in Cognac, Brenne offers a unique French single malt experience.

• Maison Rémy Martin – While renowned for Cognac, Rémy Martin offers immersive tours that delve into their distillation expertise.

Nagano & Yamanashi, Japan: Japan’s Quiet Whiskey Regions

These two neighboring prefectures are redefining Japanese whisky... one alpine view and precision-distilled dram at a time. Nagano brings mountain air and meticulous blending, while Yamanashi adds lush valleys, hot springs, and Mt. Fuji peeking in the background. This isn’t tourist-trap territory. It’s quiet, thoughtful whisky, crafted with care.

Check Out:

• Mars Shinshu Distillery – Japan’s highest distillery, known for mountain-aged single malts and creative releases.

• Komoro Distillery – A sleek, modern distillery set near Mt. Asama, led by world-renowned blender Ian Chang.

• Shizuoka Distillery – Technically in neighboring Shizuoka but perfect for pairing with Yamanashi travel. Cedar casks, volcanic spring water, and serious craft cred.

  
  

Pacific Northwest, USA: American Whiskey Beyond Kentucky

Oregon and Washington may not scream “whiskey trail,” but don’t be fooled. This is where the craft spirit movement is thriving with bold distillers pushing boundaries with single malts, heritage grains, and wine barrel finishes. Plus, you’re never far from a tasting room with a vineyard view, a volcano, or both. Rugged, creative, and a little foggy in the best way.

Check Out:

• Westward Whiskey – An award-winning American single malt whiskey distillery in Portland, Oregon, known for its bold and innovative spirits.

• Woodinville Whiskey Co. – A grain-to-glass distillery in Washington state, offering handcrafted whiskeys in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

• Hood River Distillers – Oregon's oldest distillery, producing a variety of spirits with a focus on local ingredients and sustainability.

  
  

Why These Places Work (and Why Planning Matters)

What ties these destinations together isn’t geography. It’s intention.

Each one offers whiskey experiences that make sense in context, when paired correctly with the right pace, lodging, and surrounding experiences. That’s the difference between simply visiting a distillery and building a trip that actually feels cohesive.

This is the kind of planning I do best: matching unexpected whiskey destinations to the people who will appreciate them most, then shaping the details so the trip feels thoughtful rather than rushed.

📥 Want two more bonus picks? Grab my free guide: Top 5 Under-the-Radar Whiskey Trails.  it’s packed with sips, scenery, and smart reasons to plan a trip.