Scotland is the home of Scotch whisky, and no country makes it with the same range or reputation. By law it must be distilled here, matured in oak casks for at least three years and bottled at 40% ABV or higher. Inside those rules sits huge variety: delicate floral drams, and whiskies thick with peat smoke.
Single malt and blended Scotch, and how they differ
Start with the split between single malt and blended Scotch. A single malt is made from malted barley at one distillery and distilled in copper pot stills, carrying the clearest stamp of place. Blended Scotch marries malt with lighter grain whisky from several distilleries, giving the smooth, consistent style that made names like Johnnie Walker famous. Browse the full range of whisky, or explore our other spirits.
The five whisky regions and their signature styles
Scotland has five whisky regions, each with its own accent. Speyside is the fruity, elegant heartland, full of apple, pear and honey and often matured in sherry casks. Islay sits at the other pole, all peat smoke, brine and seaweed from barley dried over peat fires. The Highland region is the most varied, rich and malty or lightly smoky, while Lowland malts are light and grassy and Campbeltown drams are briny. An age statement marks the youngest whisky inside; longer in oak usually means a rounder spirit.
Scotch whisky FAQ
What is the difference between single malt and blended Scotch?
Single malt comes from one distillery and uses only malted barley, so it shows the most character. Blended Scotch mixes malt with grain whisky from several distilleries for a smoother, more approachable style.
How should I drink Scotch whisky?
Try it neat first to read its natural aromas. A few drops of water can open up a rich malt, though with peated Islay whisky many prefer it undiluted so the smoke stays intact.
What does an age statement mean?
It shows the age of the youngest whisky in the bottle, counted from time in oak. A ten year old malt may contain older whisky too, but nothing younger.