Scotch Whisky

The land of Scotland has many types of whisky. Yet the generic term “Scotch” is used abroad in places such as the United States. But when people think of “Scotch” they often more or less think of a heavily peated, smokey and earthy alcohol. But that is particularly true with some “Scotch” such as Islay’s Regional whiskys. Where as, Speyside have more caramel, butter-scotch and sometimes slightly salty experiences for an example.

Scotlands Whisky Regions

Here is a lovey yet simple map to illustrate the regions.

*Image is from http://www.highestspirits.com/whats-whisky-part-3-scotland/

There a few main regions for whisky in Scotland, 4-6 depending who you ask. Some of which, don’t necessarily produce whisky that is distinctive of that regions particular flavour profile. But, all in all, there still is regional profiles that the majority fall into. Some of it is subjective really. But a very high percentage of that region’s distillery’s will have the tell tail notes of said region like Islays are majority very peaty and earthy. But then there is one or two who have little and are more fruity and bright. And then each distillery and or blends can be very unique and pose different characteristics. Click here to view some reviews.

The main Regions are:

Highland

Islay’s

Lowland

Speyside

There are also other regions such as Cambletown and Islands. But one thing I would note that Scotland has thousands of islands, stretching up the Western coast to the outer Hebrides and the To Orkney. So there is room for a Vast change in flavour profiles for each of these islands due to many aspects. But currently they are lumped together in one Region or labelled Highland.

Regions Characteristics

These are some of the well noted characteristics for each region. But as stated in the start of the post, this may be true for the average run of the mill distillery in a region. But there will be some Wild Card distillers in there. An example of a Wild Card would be Bunnahabhain as stated in my review. In summary its an Islay whisky but if i had to blind taste it i would think its more Highland or Lowland in flavour, smell and its general character.

Cambeltown

Cambeltown whiskys are known for being rich and full of flavour. Hints of fruits, vanilla, toffee and also some smokey and oak notes.

Highland

Highland whiskys cover a large area and therefore have vast differences in the characteristics. From soft and smooth, fiery and spicy. The region is famous for single malts. Currently Islands is lumped in with Highlands region.

Islay (i-la)

“The hardcore” these whiskys are usually for the more experienced as they are full on everything. They are usually heavily peated, smoked and fiery.

Lowland

Good starting whiskys along with Speyside. Gentler whiskys with grassy, honey and lighter cream notes usually. Sometimes a little spice to them. But I often find apple and grain notes as well. The lowlands where famous for blends.

Speyside

This is where it is best to start off with Scotch Whisky. Nearly all Speysides are super friendly and easy to drink. Typical characteristics are: Apple, pear, honey, vanilla, butter, butter scotch and mild spice. This area is heavily dense in distillery’s due to the fertile glens down each side of the River Spey. Matured in Cherry Casks

Speyside, Lowland, Highland, Cambeltown and Islay’s is the order In my opinion of progressing through whisky levels.

For Some Whisky reviews please click here