If you've ever ordered a whisky and heard the term 'Scotch' being thrown around, you've probably wondered what the difference is between traditional and Scotch whisky. While some people associate the word Scotch with other whisky varieties, we'd argue that it could actually be placed into a league all of its own!
With a unique ingredient list, regional requirements, and even a specific production process, there's more to Scotch than meets the eye. If you want to learn more about what Scotch whisky is, how it's made, and even how to enjoy this delicious spirit, you've come to the right place.
So, let's pour a glass and explore what makes Scotch one of the most sought-after whiskies across the globe.
What Is Scotch?
Scotch whisky (usually just called 'Scotch') is a Scottish whisky primarily made from water and malted barley. In some cases, other grains may be included in the mix. However, what really gives Scotch its unique flavor is the aging process.
Aged in oak barrels, this drink has been tweaked and perfected over hundreds of years to form what we drink today.
It's important to note that there is a distinct difference between Scotch and other types of whiskies (more on this later). However, in order for a Scotch to be defined as authentic and legal, it needs to be produced in Scotland. In fact, that's where it gets its name!
While other parts of the world do produce whisky, they are usually easy to spot. But how?
Well, Scottish whisky is spelled without an 'e', which distinguishes it from other varieties like American whiskey or Irish whiskey (spelled with an 'e').
There are also other regulations that make a Scotch truly authentic, including:
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The ingredients used (malted barley and water with some other whole grains accepted for grain whiskies).
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The aging process.
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The spirit can only be distilled with an alcohol content of 94.8% or less.
The Scotch Whisky Production Process
To make a perfectly balanced Scotch, a few key ingredients are used. For single malt Scotch whiskies, the only ingredients are malted barley, water, and yeast (during the fermentation process). Of course, grain and blended whiskies also use other grains like wheat, corn, or rye to give them a different flavor profile.
The distilling process
No matter the ingredients, the production process is typically the same across the board and involves five crucial steps:
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Malting process: Barley grains are soaked in water and left to germinate. The grains then release enzymes that change starch into fermentable sugars. Once this happens, the malting process is stopped by drying the grains in a kiln. In some cases, peat smoke is used to give these Scotch whiskies a deeper and smokier flavor.
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Mashing: The dried barley is then ground into a grist and mixed with hot water in a mash tun to extract the sugars. This creates a sugary liquid called wort.
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Fermentation: The wort is moved to fermentation tanks known as washbacks. Yeast is then added to the mix, fermenting the sugars into alcohol to create a liquid similar to beer. This is known as wash.
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Distillation: The wash is distilled twice in copper pot stills (for single malt Scotch) or continuously in column stills (for grain whisky).
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Maturation: The spirit is transferred into oak barrels and aged for at least three years. This is the required minimum for whisky to be considered a Scotch.
Types Of Scotch
Scotch comes in five main types, each with unique characteristics. These types have even been separated and defined by the Scotch Whisky Regulations (2009).
If you're a true whisky connoisseur, it's important to know how to distinguish between these types. Or, at least, if you want to impress your friends and family with your whisky knowledge!
The five types of Scotch whisky include:
Single malt
Single malt Scotch whisky is typically made from malted barley at a single distillery (hence the name 'single malt'). It's also the most traditional and purest form of Scotch since it doesn't contain any other grains.
Although this whisky has a set production and distillation process, each distillery typically puts its own 'spin' onto its product. This is because factors like the water source and the maturation casks used can influence the final taste. As a result, the taste of single malt whisky ranges from lighter and more fruity notes to a rich, smoky flavor with woody notes that develop with age.
Some popular brands of single malt Scotch whisky include Glenfiddich, Macallan, Glenlivet, and Lagavulin.
Single grain
Single grain Scotch whisky is another type that is only made at a single distillery. However, if you look at the name, it's easy to see that it has been made from a mix of malted barley and other grains. Since the name 'single malt' refers to the fact that the spirit has only been made from malted barley, you can deduce that 'single grain' means that the drink incorporates other grains to get its flavor.
This whisky is generally distilled in continuous column stills, which gives it a much lighter and smoother taste. While it's less complex than single malt Scotch whisky, it's commonly used in whisky blends.
Blended
Blended Scotch whisky is made by combining different types of Scotch, usually a blend between a single malt Scotch and a single grain Scotch from different distilleries. The goal of blending whisky is to create a more consistent taste across every bottle.
Interestingly, this type of Scotch is typically what most people buy and consume since it comes with a smoother, more balanced flavor profile. For example, Johnnie Walker Blue is a blended Scotch whisky.
Blended malt
Blended malt Scotch whisky (also referred to as a vatted malt) is a blend of single malts from different distilleries. For this blend, no single grain whisky is involved. And, since it exclusively contains multiple single malt Scotch whiskies, it tends to have a richer and more complex flavor.
One of the most popular examples of a blended malt is Johnnie Walker Green Label.
Blended grain
Blended grain Scotch whisky is the opposite of its malt counterpart; instead of exclusively using single malts, it uses a combination of single grains from multiple distilleries.
These blends aren't commonly found on their own. Instead, they're typically used for other blended whiskies. Since they only use grain whisky, the result is a lighter and smoother flavor than any other single malt, single grain, or blended Scotch whisky.
What Makes Scotch Different From Other Whiskies?
So, what sets Scotch apart from other whiskies? The most obvious factor is that Scotch must be produced in Scotland for it to be considered traditional and authentic. This is similar to the regional exclusivity of Champagne from France or Tequila from Mexico.
Additionally, the ingredients for Scotch whisky are simple and limited to barley, water, and certain grains. However, for other whiskies like bourbon (which is made in the U.S.), the main ingredient is usually a grain like corn.
When it comes to the production process, Scotch is usually distilled twice. Other whisky, like Irish whiskey, is typically distilled three times for a smoother drink. And when it comes to flavor, Scotch can range from smoky to floral tones. In contrast, for whiskies like bourbon, the flavor profile is much sweeter, with an almost caramelized taste.
How Best To Enjoy Scotch Whisky
Scotch is an incredibly versatile drink that can be enjoyed in several different ways. So, if you're new to Scotch whisky or you just want to try something out of the norm, here are the most common ways to savor it:
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Neat: This is usually considered the most 'traditional' way to enjoy Scotch, where the drink is poured straight from the bottle without any additions.
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With water: Adding a few drops of water to your Scotch can really open up its flavors and aromas—especially with high-proof whiskies. The water helps reduce the spirit's intensity, which means you can enjoy a smoother drinking experience.
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On the rocks: Serving your Scotch over ice or 'on the rocks' can help chill your drink and mellow its intensity. While this is a somewhat controversial practice (some argue that ice can numb your palate and dull the flavor), you can always use larger ice blocks or whisky stones to slow the dilution.
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In cocktails: Although Scotch is usually sipped on its own, it has become a popular addition to several cocktails. The most well-known Scotch-based cocktail has got to be a Scotch and soda, but it can also be used in a Rob Roy or Penicillin.
FAQs
Is Scotch more expensive than whiskey?
While Scotch can be more expensive than other whiskies, this isn't always the case. Blended Scotch is typically cheaper than traditional single malt Scotch whisky, but it depends on the brand you're buying.
Remember, since Scotch is highly regulated and involves a much stricter production process, the price will usually reflect that. That means you may pay more for a Scotch than an Irish whiskey, but the price tag is well worth the flavor and drinking experience!
What is the most popular Scotch?
Arguably, the most popular Scotch across the globe is Johnnie Walker—particularly their Red and Black Label varieties. However, in Scotland, The Famous Grouse is well-known (and well-loved) as one of the best whiskies in the country.
Does Scotch whisky go off?
As long as Scotch whisky is unopened, it can last for years! You just need to be sure to keep it in a cool, dark room to retain its color and flavors.
Once you open your bottle of Scotch, oxidation will slowly start to change the flavor profile of your drink. So, if you want to enjoy it while its flavor is still strong, it's best to drink it within a year or two of opening it.
Final Thoughts
Scotch whisky is one of the smoothest and most delicious spirits in the whisky family. And, with so many unique characteristics, it's not hard to see why. In fact, whisky lovers around the world will typically seek out an authentic Scotch whisky as their drink of choice.
If you want to try out this delicacy for yourself, then be sure to check out our Scotch collection. From single malt whisky to blended varieties, we have something to suit every palate.
