The key to remember is that all ryes, scotches, and bourbons are types of whiskey, but not all whiskeys are ryes, scotches or bourbons. The same way all Chardonnays are white wine but not all white wines are Chardonnays. Bourbon, scotch, rye and the like are different types of whiskey that come from different regions and share different taste properties.
What Makes A Scotch, A Scotch?
So, what needs to be in a Scotch in order to be able to call it Scotch? It must be produced, bottled, and distilled in Scotland. Must be based on barley and water and must be aged in casks for at least three years. Whole grains and other cereal can be added to the malted barley mash in order to produce different flavor varieties.
Probably the most popular scotch term is single malt. That means, it is a whisky from a single Scottish distillery that is based on barley and water. It contains no other cereals, must be distilled and bottled in Scotland. A blended scotch requires at least one single malt scotch that is then paired with at least one single grain Scotch.
Now that you know what scotch is, we’ll introduce you to a handful of bottles every new scotch drinker should try. When you’re selecting your first dram of Scotch, stick with a gentler spirit. A “gentle” whisky will contain no peat, which makes the dram sweeter and the burn minimal. You’re looking for more of a warm hug and less of a slap in the face.
Beginner Scotch Recommendations
Macallan Double Cask 12-year-old
The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old forms part of their Double Cask range which marries the classic Macallan style and the unmistakable sweetness of American oak. This is a fully rounded single malt in perfect balance, with flavors of honey, citrus and ginger.
Auchentoshan 12-year-old Single Malt
A Single Malt Scotch whisky with a distinctive aroma of crème brulee to the nose with a burst of citrus and then Auchentoshan’s signature nuttiness and green leafiness. A smooth whisky taste with sweet notes along with hints of tangerine and lime characterize this 12-year-old.
Highland Park 12-Year-Old Single Malt
Matured predominantly in European and American sherry seasoned oak casks, this iconic 12-Year-Old single malt whisky is spicy and well-rounded, packed with the flavors of sun-kissed Seville oranges and rich fruitcake spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves; you’ll find molten heather honey in this whisky’s waves of heathery peat smoke.
Glenmorangie Original 10-year-old Single Malt
Made it in giraffe-high stills, and then aged 10 years in bourbon casks to absorb all manner of delectable flavors. The result is a smooth whisky which welcomes you with a rush of citrus, then holds your attention with layers of luscious flavor, from orange to honey and creamy vanilla, with bursts of peach.
Aberlour 12-year-old Single Malt
Maturation in a mix of bourbon and sherry casks makes this Speyside single malt dessert-like in flavor. With notes of figs on the nose, more dark fruits enter the fray upon the first sip: raisins and dates, backed by caramel and milk chocolate.
