A wedding toast is more than just a few words clinked over champagne glasses. It’s a moment. A chance to share something real—funny, heartfelt, maybe a little embarrassing—in honor of two people choosing each other. And while champagne is the traditional go-to, whiskey brings something deeper to the table. Bold. Smooth. It’s a little smoky if you like it that way. Pairing your toast with the right whiskey can elevate the entire experience—not just for you but for everyone listening (and sipping).

Here’s how to match the right kind of toast with the right kind of whiskey.

1. The Sentimental Toast + Buffalo Trace Bourbon

This toast brings a tear—or at least a glassy eye. You’re telling the story of how the couple met or how one partner has changed for the better. It’s about love, growth, and moments that matter. This kind of toast deserves something with warmth and character.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is a perfect match. It’s rich, smooth, and layered—with notes of caramel, vanilla, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. It’s a bourbon that feels familiar and sincere, like a heartfelt memory. It doesn’t overpower—it complements.

How to deliver it: Speak slowly. Pause when it matters. Don’t rush the emotion—let it land. Your whiskey, like your words, should be savored.

2. The Funny Roast + Bold Bourbon

If you’re a sibling or best friend, your job might be to lighten the mood. You’ve got the stories—awkward teenage years, bad haircuts, failed first dates. This is the roast-with-love kind of toast. It’s funny but not cruel. Honest but still appropriate.

For this, go with a bold bourbon—something high-proof with personality, like Wild Turkey Rare Breed or Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. Bourbons have sweetness (like caramel and vanilla) and kick. They match the energy of a well-timed punchline.

How to deliver it: Know your crowd. Keep it light, not mean. And take a sip before your first joke—it’ll calm your nerves and set the tone.

3. The Short and Sweet Toast + Irish Whiskey

Not everyone wants to give a speech. Maybe you’re nervous. You may not be close enough for a long story. That’s okay. A short toast—one or two lines, heartfelt or humorous—can still be memorable.

For these quick hits, Irish whiskey is your friend. Smooth, approachable, and easy to sip. Jameson is the obvious choice, but Redbreast 12 or Green Spot are great if you want something more refined.

How to deliver it: Raise your glass, smile, say your piece, and get out of the way. Let the whiskey—and the moment—do the rest.

4. The Romantic Partner Toast + Peated Scotch

Your words carry weight if you’re the groom, bride, or one-half of the couple giving a thank-you speech. You’re speaking from the heart—to your spouse, guests, and family. It’s personal. Honest. Sometimes raw.

A peated Scotch, like Laphroaig 10 or Ardbeg Uigeadail, can bring that emotional gravity. It’s smoky and intense, not for everyone—but deeply memorable. Just like your toast should be.

How to deliver it: Speak to your partner first. Let your voice shake if it does. Then, toast to everyone who got you here. Take a sip, breathe, and smile.

5. The Wild Card Toast + Japanese Whisky

Maybe you’re the wildcard—funny, unpredictable, but always a crowd-pleaser. Your toast weaves between humour and heart, keeps people on their toes, and ends with something surprisingly profound.

Japanese whisky perfectly matches that tone. It’s elegant but complex, with a balance that surprises you. Try Hakushu 12 for something lightly smoky or Hibiki Harmony for a smooth, floral finish.

How to deliver it: Be yourself. If you’re quirky, don’t try to be polished. Let your toast be as unique as your pour.

Don’t Just Raise Your Glass—Match It

Choosing the proper whiskey for your wedding toast isn’t about impressing anyone. It’s about enhancing the experience—for you and the people who matter. A good whiskey can calm your nerves, fill a quiet pause, or give your words an extra bit of weight.

And if you’re not sure what to pick? Go with something you enjoy. The best toasts come from a place of authenticity—and the best whiskey is the one that helps you speak from the heart.

Let your toast be honest, whether you’re telling a love story, roasting a lifelong friend, or just trying not to cry in front of a hundred people. Let your whiskey be worthy. And remember: It’s not just a drink. It’s part of the moment.