Few things are as pleasurable as a quality Scotch. But let’s make one thing clear; Scotch, Whisky or Scotch whisky can only come from Scotland.

In order to earn the classification a spirit must endure stringent requirements and follow the standards established by the Scotch Whisky Order of 1990. There are specific regulations for the ingredients, malting, fermentation, distillation and maturing process; but the most important rule is that the key ingredients are malted barley and water and they must be distilled and processed in Scotland and matured there in oak casks for no less than three years and a day.   

The main regions for whisky production are the Highlands, the Lowlands, Islay, Campbeltown and Speyside, which has almost half of Scotland’s total distilleries. The geography and climate of each region influences each whisky produced.

Highland whiskies are rounded, robust and dry, with a hint of smokiness and peatiness. Lowland malts tend to be light, soft, mellow and gentle to the palate.

Speyside whiskies are complex with refined smokiness and delicacy to their character.

Islay malts are pungent and powerful while those from Campbeltown are robust with the salty tang of the sea.  

When it comes to the type of whisky to choose there is Single Malt which means all product is from a single distillery, distilled in batches in pot stills. There are also single grain and vatted whiskies. But the most popular category is Blended Scotch which constitutes over 90% of the whisky produced in Scotland.

Master Blenders combine or ‘blend’ the various malts and grain whiskies and distil them at more than one distillery to produce a consistent “brand style.”  

Once distilled the single or blended spirit is placed into oak casks for the maturation process. These days, most casks previously contained sherry or bourbon which impacts the whisky’s color and taste. Whisky from sherry casks is usually darker or more amber in color, while whisky aged in bourbon casks tends to be a golden-yellow/honey color. 

Aging plays an important role in the whisky’s quality. Most single malts are aged for a minimum of eight years of age. Older whiskies are rarer to find and command higher prices. The age listed refers to the youngest whisky matured in the cask before bottling.  Whisky has been produced in Scotland for hundreds of years with the earliest mention being from 1495.

Some of the best known Blended brands include Dewar’s, Johnnie Walker, Cutty Sark, and Chivas Regal. 

Single malt labels are extensive but among the standouts are Glengoyne, Cragganmore and Macallan.