Blended Whisky Vs Single Malt: What Is The Difference?
If you are an amateur newly exploring the realms of Scottish whisky or whisky in general, you might have often come across terms like blended whisky or single malt while describing the spirit. For connoisseurs and master distillers, this distinction matters a lot: it is what determines the processes that are involved in the production of several whiskies and how these production methods contribute to imbuing the spirit with deep flavours and rich tasting notes.
Inevitably, the difference between a blended whisky and a single malt has as much to do with the production process as with the expertise and craftsmanship associated with each one. The two terms represent distinct approaches to making whisky, each with nuanced techniques and characteristics of its own. Here’s a breakdown of these distinctions:
What Is Single Malt Whisky?
Put simply, single malt is a whisky made from 100 percent malted barley that is distilled at a single distillery. The whisky is often aged in oak casks for several years and is prized for its complexity, terroir and craftsmanship. Generally, this whisky is produced in one single location in small batches so its flavours almost always reflect the region’s water source, climate and traditions.
Now, this uncomplicated explanation reveals multiple characteristics about the single malt. One of them is that it is made using barley alone, so, essentially only one grain goes into making this whisky. Moreover, the whisky is made using malted barley, a crucial step involved in making the single malt.
Malting is the process that involves preparing barley for making whisky to get rid of its starchy components such that it can then be converted into fermentable materials. Barley is soaked for about 2–3 days and is then spread out over the malting floors so it begins to sprout. This sprouted grain is then dried using warm air in a kiln. In some cases, peat smoke is introduced during this step to add that smoky touch into the whisky’s final tasting notes.
Undoubtedly this is a very complex process which requires much technique. The result: a whisky with deep, rich, malty flavours.
Some of the more well-known examples of such single malt whisky are a Speyside or an Islay Scotch. While the former is known for its fruity, elegant and smooth flavours, the latter stands out for its robust peaty notes.
Also Read: Blended Scotch vs. Single Malt: What’s the Difference And Which One Should You Choose?
What Is Blended Whisky?
Unlike the single malt, blended whisky is a coming together of different types of whiskies – and can often include single malts and grain whiskies – from multiple distilleries. These whiskies are matured in different casks, carry different flavours and are aged for different durations. The skill of a master distiller lies in bringing together these different whiskies in such a manner that the resulting spirit delivers a consistent taste and flavour balance.
This whisky is so crafted that it carries a silkier finish, and is versatile enough to be used in the making of numerous cocktail blends. Unlike single malt whose 30 ml serve is many times presented by itself or on a bed of ice, blended whisky is an excellent contender for mixing lots of spirit-forward cocktails.
And then there is the blended Scotch whisky. This whisky from Scotland is a mixture of malted whiskies that can either be single malt whiskies, that is whiskies made from malted barley and one distiller or single grain whiskies, made from other grains like wheat or corn at one or more distilleries. What makes these whiskies stand out is that they are made keeping in mind Scottish whisky making regulations, are most often than not produced using malted grains and are carefully combined to create a harmonious flavour that is smoother and slightly more approachable than that of the single malt.
Such a blended Scotch whisky or a blended grain whisky forms an excellent base spirit for diverse cocktails. Blended whiskies are more versatile and smooth, contrary to superbly crafted single malts known more for their intricate flavours and aromas. The choice between a single malt and a blended whisky then depends on one’s taste preferences and the creative possibilities that each spirit presents.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
