Select a Region

Single malts are often classified according to the region in which they were distilled. Scotch-wise, Scotland is basically segregated into four regions: Highland, Lowland, Speyside and Islay. Each region produces Scotch with different characteristics. When you hear them described, you can select the region that sounds most appealing to you and choose from a list of recommended Scotches from that region. (Many of the brand recommendations in this section come from Scotchwhisky.com; see Resources.)

Highland

The Highland region is the largest by far, and the single malts produced there vary widely. The region can be further subdivided into the Northern, Eastern, Western and Central Highlands, and doing so allows for more specific commentary.

The Northern Highlands distilleries produce lighter whiskies that are known for their delicacy, complex aroma and slight saltiness (due to their being distilled by the sea). Recommended Northern Highland brands include Balblair, Clynelish, Glenmorangie (the most popular single malt in Scotland), Highland Park and Pulteney.

The Eastern Highlands distilleries are known for whiskies that are medium-bodied, smooth and slightly smoky. The two Eastern Highlands scotches that are most recommended are Glendronach and Royal Lochnagar.

Western Highlands single malts are somewhat sweet and have a peppery finish and a hint of smoke. The most recommended (the latter two are promoted as "Classic Malts") are Ben Nevis, Oban, and Talisker (known for its extremely hot, peppery flavor).

Central Highlands whiskies are said to be light-bodied, somewhat sweet and very fragrant, with a dry finish. The most recommended of these are Dalwhinnie (another "classic malt") and Edradour.

Lowland

There are not many Lowland distilleries, but they have always been known for making single malts much lighter and mellower than other Scotch whiskies. Lowland whiskies used to be very popular with the English, who found the light flavor more suitable for their delicate palates. However, Lowland Scotches all have the powerful, complex flavors and aromas that are distinct to single-malt whiskies, and they might well be the best Scotches for beginners who aren't sure they can deal with an Islay malt or a Talisker.

The most recommended Lowland brands are Auchentoshan and Glenkinchie.

Speyside

The Speyside region is located within the Highlands, but the Speyside distilleries are all adjacent to the River Spey, and they are thought to have sufficiently unique characteristics to warrant a region of their own. This region boasts the highest concentration of distilleries, and the whiskies they produce are known for their sweetness and their complex and elegant flavors and aromas. More than half of the distilleries in Scotland are located in the relatively small Speyside region, and they produce many brands that are highly recommended. The "Top Class" Speyside whiskies include: Aultmore, Glen Grant, Linkwood, Benrinnes, Glenlivet, Longmorn, Cragganmore, Glenlossie, Macallan, Glen Elgin, Glenrothes and Mortlach.

Islay

Islay (pronounced "eye-la") is a small island off the western coast of Scotland, and it is home to the heaviest, strongest-flavored, smokiest and most challenging of the single malts. Some drinkers love their complexity and robustness, while others think they are unspeakably foul. Their strong flavor is thought to be due to the Islay region's exposure to the high winds and seas of the west coast. Salty spray is blown far inland, and this can get into the water and the peat, both of which are used in the production of Islay malts. These whiskies might not be good for neophytes, but if you are already sure you like the flavors of single-malt Scotches in general, it is probably worth your while to try some of these.

Some recommended brands are: Bowmore (one of the milder Islays), Caol Ila (pronounced "cal-eela"), Lagavulin and Laphroaig (pronounced "La-frayg").

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How to Choose a Good Scotch

Select a Region

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