‘The Finest Scotch – A connoisseur’s delight!’
If there is a beverage for the connoisseur, it has to be Scotch, the classic whisky that is popular with both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. Aged in oak casks, Scotch whisky has been crafted in Scotland for over 500 years, and its tradition and prized taste is as much part of the enjoyment of it as its smoothness, smokiness and sweetness.
No two bottles of Scotch are the same, as each whisky is crafted to reflect the individual distinctiveness of the whisky maker, the region and the cask. There are five main whisky regions of Scotland—Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside, Campbeltown and Islay—each renowned for its own individual flavor and characteristics.
The Highland region has a particularly varied whisky with a diverse range of flavors. Malts from this region are known for their combination of peatiness, smokiness and spice, as well as a sweetness. The Lowland region is milder and lighter than its highland counterpart, but still has some smoky notes and a hint of spice. The Speyside region packs a punch with powerful flavors, producing some of the heaviest and most peaty of Scotch whiskies. The region is home to some of the most sought after expressions such as The Macallan and Glenfidditch. Campbeltown is the smallest whisky-producing region in Scotland, known for its intense salty notes and strong flavor. Islay is renowned for its intensely smoky and peaty whiskies.
Whilst there’s a huge range of Scotch whiskies to choose from, some are considered to be the cream of the crop and are more sought after than others. The types of Scotch typically considered to be the top shelf whiskies include single malt, blended Scotch and grain whisky.
Single Malt Scotch is whisky that is made from just one distillery and is crafted from just one type of grain and distilled according to the traditional requirements of the Scotch Whisky Association. Blended Scotch is created by combining different whiskies from several distilleries. The aim of the blend is to create variety and complexity in taste. Grain whisky is crafted from corn, wheat and barley, and is distilled as a single whisky or used as part of a blend.
No matter what type whisky is enjoyed, the flavor will depend on the artisan behind the product and this is why some Scotch whiskies have become so renowned and highly sought after. To give you an idea of which are considered to be the best, here is a list of some of the top rated Scotch whiskies from each region:
Highlands – Glenmorangie 10 Year, Glenmorangie Astar, Aberlour A’bunadh, Highland Park 12 Year and Dalmore 12 Year
Lowlands – Auchentoshan 12 Year, Glenkinchie 10 Year, Auchentoshan Three Wood and Rosebank 12 Year
Speyside – Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year, The Macallan 18 Year, Glenfiddich 12 Year and Balvenie 15 Year
Campbeltown – Springbank 10 Year, Glen Scotia Double Cask and Kilkerran 12 Year
Islay – Lagavulin 16 Year, Ardbeg 10 Year, Bruichladdich Classic Laddie and Laphroaig 10 Year
No matter the taste and preference, Scotch whisky offers connoisseurs the perfect Beverage to savor and enjoy. Whether it’s a single cask, a blend or a grain whisky, Scotch whisky is certainly an acquired taste that rewards all who seek it.