Deciphering Single Malt Scotch Whiskey

Unless you've been partaking in the best single malt scotch for some twenty years now, you might be unaware of the differences between scotch, and I'm not just talking about brand names. When you shop at a discount liquor store, you'll notice there is single malt, blended, single grain, and a few other varieties. What exactly is the difference and what is the best for you?

If you're new to the whole whiskey game, you may not be aware that there is even a difference between scotch and whiskey. Scotch is a type of whiskey made in Scotland. In England, when one mentions whiskey, he is usually talking about scotch and not American whiskey. Scotch is divided into five categories: single malt scotch whiskey, single grain scotch whiskey, blended malt scotch whiskey, blended grain scotch whiskey, and blended scotch whiskey. Although each one has distinct characteristics, all scotch whiskey must follow certain guidelines. It must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. It must also be at least 40% alcohol by volume.

All blended scotch whiskey is made from either single malt scotch whiskey or single grain scotch whiskey. Single malt scotch is only produced with water and malted barely from a single distillery. It is also distilled in pot stills. Single grain is also produced at a single distillery, however, the scotch will contain other malted or unmalted whole grains besides the water and barely. It should also be noted that the term "single" doesn't mean only one type of grain was used. "Single" refers only to the fact that one distillery was used.

Things get a little tricky with blended scotch whiskey. Blended malt scotch whiskey means it is a blend of two or more single malt scotch whiskeys from different distilleries. Blended grain is a blend of two or more single grain scotch whiskeys from different distilleries. Finally, blended scotch whiskey means it is a blend of one or more single malt with one or more single grain scotch whiskeys. A bit confusing, but the names can guide you to their origins.

Now that you know the technical definitions, how does this impact taste and price? A good majority of the whiskeys produced in Scotland is blended. Blended is more popular because the taste is not as strong, yet it still remains complex. It is also cheaper than single malt scotch whiskey. But if you're looking for character and serious flavor, then a single malt or single grain is the right choice for you. It's best to begin your scotch journey with a blended scotch and prepare yourself for the rich flavors of a single malt.

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