Exploring the Distinction: Whisky vs Scotch–Does Authentic Scotch Have to be Made in Scotland?
Whisky is a delightful drink to savour, especially on cold days or in the company of friends. It offers such a rich variety of flavours and aromas, making it perfect to sip on the rocks or as a base for cocktails. Whichever way you like your whisky, it’s a great way to enhance the vibe of any gathering or for your solo indulgence.
But there’s whisky, and then there’s Scotch whisky, renowned globally for its rich history and distinct flavours. However, a common question that arises when it comes to Scotch is, to be authentic, does it have to be made in Scotland?
First Things, First – What is Scotch Whisky?
Typically, Scotch is made from all the ingredients that regular whisky is made with. There’s malted barley, although wheat and rye may also be used. For those who don’t know what malted barley is, it’s simply barley that has been allowed to germinate by soaking it in water. Water, mostly soft water with a low pH level, is another key component, which can help kick-start the fermentation process within the yeast and malted barley.
Yes, it Has to be Produced in Scotland to be Labelled as “Scotch”
What sets Scotch apart is that it has to be distilled and matured in Scotland for a minimum aging period of three years in oak barrels and has to have a minimum alcoholic strength of 40 percent, according to strict regulations laid down by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). It has to be produced in one of these five areas of Scotland: Highland, Lowland, Speyside, Campbeltown, and Islay. The regulations are very particular about the different aspects of production, from the ingredients to the distillation, aging, and bottling process.
One notable example is Japanese whisky, which has a production process very reminiscent of Scottish techniques. Other countries, such as France, India, and Germany, have their own brands of whiskies that bear similarities to Scotch in terms of flavour, but despite these resemblances, they cannot be classified as Scotch whisky. For instance, Godawan, is a “single malt” produced in Alwar, Rajasthan with locally grown barley.
The strict guidelines about the production of Scotch aren’t just limited to this spirit. For instance, not every sparkling wine is considered Champagne. It has to be produced and bottled in the Champagne region of France. This geographical indication also applies to Cognac, a type of brandy made in the Cognac region of France. The same goes for Bourbon too; it must be produced in the United States, primarily in Kentucky. While bourbon can be made in other states and regions, Kentucky is known for its bourbon production and has specific legal requirements for bourbon production.
What More do I Need to Know About Scotch Whisky?
That there are five categories of Scotch whisky that you should know of:
Single Malt
Single malt Scotch whisky’s primary characteristic is that it is exclusively distilled at a single distillery using only water and 100 percent malted barley, without the addition of any other cereals. The production process involves batch distillation in copper pot stills. This factor, along with the fact that it’s not mass-produced to the extent other categories of Scotch are – only 10 percent of whisky coming out of Scotland is considered single malt – makes this Scotch premium and on the higher end. Singleton and Talisker single malts are among the premium single malts available in India.
Blended Malt
This category of Scotch whisky is crafted by blending together multiple batches of single malt Scotch whiskies from different distilleries. As a result, you get a unique blend of complex yet balanced flavours.
Single Grain
Single grain Scotch is distilled at a single distillery using water, malted barley, and a medley of other cereals like rye, wheat and corn. These grains can be malted or unmalted. The main difference between single malt and single grain Scotch is that the latter incorporates a variety of cereals in its production.
Blended Grain
This type of Scotch is a blend of single grain Scotch whiskies, which have been distilled at different distilleries.
Blended Scotch
This type of whisky is created by blending together multiple single malt and single grain whiskies from different distilleries. It’s usually master blenders that come up with the right proportions to achieve the desired flavour profile.
How to Enjoy Scotch Whisky
Whether you choose a single malt like Singleton or Talisker, or a single grain Scotch, there’s no wrong choice. Here are some tips that can help you enjoy Scotch better:
Try it neat without any water to experience the true character and aroma.
A tulip-shaped copita glass is ideal, although you can also enjoy your Scotch in a rocks glass.
Add a splash of water, or some ice. But be sure to just add a splash and use a large ice cube so you don’t dilute the taste.
Drink responsibly, and nurse your drink. Sip and savour slowly to maximise the experience.
