I get this question in my store all the time: “What is the difference between Single Malt and Blended Scotch?”  

First of all, in order to be labeled Scotch whisky, it must be made in Scotland.  All Scotch must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years and any age statement written on the bottle must reflect the youngest whisky used to produce that product.

What is Scotch made from?  It is made from malted barley which has been processed into a mash, converted to a fermentable substrate, and then fermented by the addition of yeast, distilled at an alcoholic strength by volume less than 94 percent, aged in oak casks not exceeding 700 liters for a minimum of three years, and then blended with water (usually a source on or next to the distillery) to a minimum strength by volume of 40 percent (80 proof).

Malt whisky production begins when the barley is malted-by steeping the barley in water, and then allowing it to get to the point of germination. Malting releases enzymes that break down starches in the grain and help convert them into sugars. When the desired state of germination is reached the malted barley is dried using smoke. Many (but not all) distillers add peat to the fire to give an earthy, peaty flavor to the spirit. Scotland was traditionally divided into four regions: The Highlands, Lowland, Islay and Campbeltown. Speyside, encompassing the Spey river valley in north-east Scotland, once considered part of the Highlands, has almost half of the total number of distilleries in Scotland within its geographic boundaries; consequently it is officially recognized as a region unto itself.

The Islands is not recognized as a region by the Scotch Whisky Association and is considered part of the Highlands region.

When talking about a Scottish Whisky (Scotch), there are two main categories of product – blends and single malts. The difference between the two is simple. A single malt is made entirely by distillations from a single producer at a single site, whereas a blend is created by mixing distillation from multiple producers.

Blends are typically also a mix of malt and grain whiskeys (though there are exceptions), whereas a single malt is obviously only made from malt whiskeys.

Blended whisky was first produced in the mid 1800’s, and the main goal is to produce a consistent marketable product. Typically the bulk of a blend is made up of grain whisky which is cheaper to produce, lending itself to a more cost effective product. The grain aspect is an unmalted cereal such as wheat or maize and it lends itself to a harsher flavor than whisky from malted grains. Confusion can often arise when talking about a single malt. The term single actually refers to the fact that it is sourced from a single distiller and the end product is a crafted blend of malts of various ages. The goal here is to retain the character of the product while retaining as much consistency between batches as possible.

Is one better than the other?  It is all up to the individual taster. One person may prefer a blend over a single malt. One thing that is not always understood about scotch is there are some factors that play into the taste of a single malt scotch.  One factor is the geographical area in which the distillery is located in. Try a scotch from Islay and one from Highland and you will instantly see a big difference. The Islay is much smokier and peaty while the Highland tends to have a lighter, sweeter flavor. Also, scotches are aged in different types of barrels, which impart various flavors into the final product. Used Sherry, Bourbon, Port, and even wine casks are used to enhance the flavor of Single Malts.  

So no matter if you are blended or single malt scotch drinker, there are many different types to choose from.  All it takes is a little experimentation to find out which type of scotch your taste buds are attracted to.   Start off with a Highland scotch and move your way up to the Islay scotches.   Remember, it doesn’t get better sitting in the bottle like wine, so find your favorite bottle and share it with your friends today!

Scotch suggestions:

Blends

Famous Grouse — The No. 1 selling scotch in Scotland!  It is medium bodied with only a touch of peat and smoke.  They also make a new Famous Grouse Black which is deeper and richer.

The Dimple Pinch 15 year-old Established in 1627, the oldest distillers of Scotch whisky in the world.   Peppery nose, soft, smooth and supple, elegant and solid.

Single Malt

Oban 14 year-old — The house style for Oban malt is: Medium. Quite malty and sweet opening, with a medium body and a generous dry finish. A hint of spiciness perhaps, and seashore on the nose.

Highland Park 15 year-old A smooth, easy to drink scotch that has a light floral flavor paired with a gentle smokey finish.  

Lagavulin 16 year-old Pungent and potent with a rich peat and deep smoky finish.

— Matt Garofalo is the owner of The Oconee Cellar Wine & Spirits located next to Publix on Hwy 44.