Many whisky enthusiasts frown upon flavored whisky in the same way craft beer lovers dismiss hard root beer, or java drinkers scoff at hazelnut coffee. It’s a fair position, given that until now the majority of flavored whiskies have been saccharine-sweet spirits with a well-earned reputation of catering to neophytes and entry-level drinkers. But flavored whisky isn’t all bad. A new breed of innovative offerings, crafted with real ingredients rather than factory flavorings, offer surprisingly delicious drams. They’re taking aim at discerning drinkers, seeking open-minded converts among their ranks.

Taste It: 6 Flavored Whiskies Worth Trying

“We see a lot...