How to Buy a Single Malt Scotch

Single malt scotch is the pinnacle product of any whiskey distillery. It is not meant to be slammed down from a shot glass or mixed with cola. It is to be sipped and savored. Once you try single malt scotch, you will be hooked.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Know what makes single malt different. Single malt scotch is made from malted barley only. Blended scotch is made from unmalted barley, wheat and other grains.

2. Become familiar with Highland Single Malt. These come from the "high country" in Scotland and are lighter in body and flavor, with hints of smoke and subtle spice.

3. Get acquainted with Lowland Single Malt. From the "low country," the flavors are complex with hints of citrus for older single malts and are light and delicate for the younger single malts.

4. Recognize Speyside Single Malt Scotch. Located near the Highlands, Speyside Single Malt Scotch is big and rich in body and slightly nutty and a little musty in flavor.

5. Learn about Islay Single Malt Scotch. This region is off the western coast of Scotland. Single Malt Scotch from this area is light- to medium-bodied, with peaty and sometimes briny flavor and a slight hint of smokiness.

Tips & Warnings

• Try The Dalwhinne, The Dalmore and Glenmorangie from the Highlands.
• Seek out Glenkinchie and Interleven to experience Lowland Single Malt Scotch.
• Find Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Bowmore to enjoy single malts from Islay.
• Look for The Glenlivet, The Glenfiddich and Knockando to experience Speyside Single Malt Scotch.
• The numbers after the names indicate how many years the single malt has been aged. The older the scotch, the higher the price. Stick with 10, 12 and 15 years if you are a beginner.

Resources

• Find price ranges and tasting notes at Whiskeyguild.
• Learn more about Scotch distilleries.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.