How to Buy Scotch Whiskey

Scotch Whiskey (Whisky) must be made in Scotland to bear the name, where whisky-making is an ancient art, passed down through the generations. Other places around the world make whisky--like the US, for example, where it's called bourbon. There's a lot to know about Scotch Whisky, especially if you're spending a lot of money or giving it as a gift.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for a label that clearly states "Made in Scotland" or "Scotch Whisky." Labels that say things like "Scottish Whiskey" can be deceiving; "Scotch Whisky" is the appropriate term.

2. Decide on a variety of whisky. Scotch whiskies come in five types: single malt, single grain, blended (or pure or vatted), blended grain, or blended Scotch Whisky. The latter three are not only blends of grains, but blended grains from different distilleries. As a general rule, the single malts are the most expensive.

3. Choose a region of origin. Scotland has six Scotch-producing regions, each with its own generations-old methods of whisky-making. The regions, which are usually listed on the label, are: Lowland, Highland (Dalmore, Aberfeldy), Speyside (Glenfiddich, the Glenlivet), the Islands (Orkney), Campbeltown (Glengyle, Glen Scotia), and Islay (Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain).

4. Taste a variety of whiskies and compare the flavors of whiskies aged for different amounts of time. Most are aged a minimum of eight years, some a great deal more. Beware, though: just because a whisky is aged a long time doesn't necessarily mean it's better.

5. Note the color of different whiskies you taste. Those aged in old sherry barrels are usually darker, while those aged in recycled bourbon barrels tend to be lighter.

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