Could football actually be coming home this time? Much to the disdain of many Scottish family members, England have made it through to the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
Just Argentina stand between England and a second ever World Cup final, so now the question begs — who should be starting for the Three Lions? We do things differently here in the whisky world, so here’s our alternative Whisky XI that represents England best!
Goalkeeper
It’s important our goalkeeper is reliable and Wire Works is exactly that. We could have picked any number of expressions, but Wire Works Caduro is patient and steady.
Buy Wire Works Caduro now: Master of Malt, £58.90
Defenders
Firstly, our full-backs need to be balanced with a bit of a kick to defend against the Argentine wide players. Both Cooper King First Edition Fruit + Spice and Doghouse Distillery Debt Collector brings these qualities.
The most important things for our centre backs is high strength and reputable names to keep the back four organised. At 63.9% and 55.2% ABV respectively, Adnams Distiller’s Choice Sherry Cask and Cotswolds Hearts & Crafts Pineau des Charentes make a perfect pairing.
Buy Doghouse Distillery Debt Collector now: Master of Malt, £49.95
Midfielders
The midfield three needs to be full of quality, while bringing a range of strength, experience and capability. The Heart Cut #16 Fielden can provide protection to the back four with its high strength, while The English Sherry Cask Matured is a worthy captain and Filey Bay Orange Wine Barrique can handle the heat of the US.
Buy The Heart Cut #16 Fielden now: Master of Malt, £66.50
Buy The English Sherry Cask Matured now: Master of Malt, £58.95
Buy Filey Bay Orange Wine Barrique now: The Whisky Exchange, £61.75
Forwards
Oxford Artisan Distillery The Dissertation and Gulliver 47 Pedro Ximénez Cask cover each wing, bringing two different flavour profiles that can keep defenders on their toes and unexpecting.
For our striker leading the line, look no further than the immense quality of The Lakes Distillery Signature. If any English whisky is getting this team goals to reach the final, it’s this one.
Buy Gulliver 47 Pedro Ximénez Cask now: Master of Malt, £71.35
Buy The Lakes Distillery Signature now: Master of Malt, £73.95 | The Whisky Exchange, £68.95
Do you agree with our picks? Who was snubbed from our lineup? Head over to our Instagram and let us know what you would have changed!
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This article is not affiliated with, licensed by or endorsed by FIFA, UEFA, or any national football association, nor any kit manufacturer.
