Scotch Whisky
Whisk(e)y is one of the most celebrated spirit categories with such an enormous variation in styles and processes that it offers the broadest spectrum of aromas, textures and tastes.
The term 'Whisky' is derived from the Gaelic word "uisge beatha" (pronounced Ooshky-bay), meaning 'water of life'.
This was shortened to 'usky' by English soldiers stationed in Ireland and then 'Whisky' in English.
Production requires three simple ingredients:
- Starch: cereal grain convered to sugar and fermented to become a wash (beer)
- Malted barley
- Peat - typical of Scotch Whisky.
Whisk(e)y can be made anywhere in the world (see our North American/ Irish whiskey section) - however, Scotch can only be made in Scotland.
Scotch Whisky is double distilled and matured in a variety of casks (oak, sherry, bourbon, charred...), in Scotland, for a minimum of three years.
Flavors depend on the region and maturation and finish, but typically include peat smoke, floral, grain, honey, nut, and wood aromas.
- Single Malt is a malt whisky from one distillery (pot still)
- Single Grain is a grain whisky from one distillery (continuous still)
- Blended Malt is a blend of malt whiskies from a number of distilleries
- Blended whisky is a blend of malt and grain whiskies. this accounts for over 90% of the production of Scotch whisky.
CHECK OUT THESE SCOTCH WHISKY BRANDS FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THEIR STYLE AND RANGE:
BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKIES
Buchanan's
Buchanan’s is a blended Scotch Whisky created by James Buchanan in 1884 with four award-winning Scotch Whiskies.
Dimple
Dimple blended Scotch whisky consists of over thirty malt and grain whiskies, and is produced by Haig, Scotland's oldest surviving Scotch Whisky distiller.
J&B
J&B brings together a blend of 42 single malt and grain whiskies for a smooth, delicious Scotch whisky that's ideal for mixing.
Johnnie Walker
The world’s most iconic and best selling blended Scotch whisky: from the vibrant Red Label to the super-premium Blue Label - and beyond.
Old Parr
A blended Scotch whisky launched in 1909, named after the reputed oldest man in England.
VAT 69
A high quality and accessible blended Scotch whisky with a firm smoky base flavor.
White Horse
Created in 1890, White Horse is a blended Scotch whisky named after one of Scotland's famous coaching inns.
SINGLE MALT WHISKIES
Cardhu
An unmissable Speyside Single Malt Whisky. Sweet and smooth with a warmth and cleanliness of taste.
Caol Ila
This Single Malt whisky is a subtle take on western island smokiness down to its maritime location on the island of Islay.
Clynelish
A single malt constantly praised for its unique combination of North Highland and maritime qualities.
Cragganmore
Established in 1869, Cragganmore is a Speyside Single Malt Whisky with a rich fruity taste.
Glenkinchie
A Lowland Single Malt Whisky, Glenkinchie is one of the handful of distilleries still operating in the region known as the 'garden of Scotland'.
Dalwhinnie
As an Highland malt, Dalwhinnie is a subtle, floral and elegant Single Malt Whisky with a slight hint of peatiness.
Haig Club
Scotland's hidden gem, Haig Club is a Single Grain Scotch Whisky, made only at Cameronbridge Distillery - the oldest grain distillery in Scotland.
Lagavulin
With a scent of massive peat smoke, a subtle hint of seaweed and a deep, intense sweetness, Lagavulin is a classic Islay Single Malt Whisky.
Mortlach
Born of innovation, rich in character and tradition. Beloved of connoisseurs, from a Speyside few know. Re-born as a family of four fine, rare Single malt whiskies.
Oban
Oban, made on the western coastline of the Highlands, is a Scottish Single Malt Whisky with a distinct maritime notes that echoes its western island neighbours
The Singleton
The Singleton of Glen Ord, Dufftown or Glendullan are all Single Malts whiskies from The Singleton distillery in Speyside. Approachable, naturally rich,and with rounded flavour, they are ideal for those new to whisky.
Talisker
Powerful and spicy, with a peppery finish and a touch of island smoke, the award-winning Single Malt Whisky is the only one on the Isle of Skye.
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