Blended Scotch vs. Single Malt: What’s the Difference And Which One Should You Choose?
Whisky is one of the most popular spirits in the world and is crafted in many varieties. With so many options, this category is considered to have several types of whisky, but two varieties that have their origins in Scotland- blended scotch and single malt. Most whisky connoisseurs tend to believe single malts are more carefully crafted, while others have a preference for blended whiskies. Beginners, however, may find it difficult to navigate this world of scotch whiskies. Here’s an easy guide to the differences between blended scotch whisky and single malt whisky everyone should know.
Origin
As the name suggests, blended scotch whisky should always originate from Scotland. Though single malt whisky was initially only crafted in Scotland, it is now created in many parts of the world, including Japan and India.
Composition
Single malt whisky is always crafted from a single malted barley distilled in only one distillery. It uses a malted barley mash that is distilled in a pot still. No other grain or cereal dilates are mixed with this distil. Once the location of the single malt whisky is known, it is easy to predict the flavour of the whisky. For example, smokey and full-bodied whisky is crafted in the Highlands of Scotland. Lowland whisky has less smoky flavour and high herbaceous and honey-like notes. For experimenting with fruity note whisky, Speyside whisky is the option. Islay Single Malt whisky is intensely flavoured with a smoky flavour.
Blended scotch whisky is a blend of different whisky crafted from barley, corn, rye or wheat in multiple distilleries. A mixture of 60-85% single-malt whisky, which is comparatively lighter and formed from wheat and 15-40% single-grain whisky are used as ingredients in a blended scotch whisky. Sometimes, even 30 single grain whisky are combined to make a blended scotch whisky, whereas there can be only one grain in it.
Production
Single malt whisky is produced from a single distillery and 100% malted barley. Traditional copper pot stills are used to follow the entire process. Oak barrels or casks are used for the maturation process. The flavour depends on the cask’s content. The single malt whisky spends any duration, from 8 to 20 years in the casks for maturation.
On the other hand, blended whisky is meticulously created by blending malt and grain whisky. A master blender performs the activities of blending particular whiskies to create a consistent flavour profile in a blended scotch whisky.
The Science Behind The Crafting
To create a harmonious balance, grain whisky is good as it makes a lighter and milder flavour. The ageing process in an oak cask also determines the flavour of any blended scotch whisky, as the flavour is infused in a wood cask. During this ageing process, the whisky mellows and integrates. The length of this mellowing and integration period can vary, but the ultimate requirement is to create a harmonized and consistent product. The oak cask determines if the blended scotch whisky will be of caramel, dried fruit, vanilla or any other flavour. The climate of the area where the ageing process occurs determines the flavour as well.
Which One To Choose?
The main difference between scotch and single malt whisky is the ingredients used. Both single malt and scotch whisky are brilliant and have their own merits and demerits when someone attempts to try any one of them. Scotch whisky has a complex and distinctive note.
So, if the connoisseur’s focus is on a complex taste, then scotch whisky is the option. If the priority is the price, then scotch whisky is of lesser price than single malt whisky. For a smoother taste, single malt whisky can be consumed. However, if the priority is on trying different flavours and complexities, then going for different scotch whisky from different regions can be perfect.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
