What Is So ‘Single’ About A Single Malt? Let’s Find Out
The name ‘single malt’ is uttered with great reverence among whisky connoisseurs. As an amateur, it might be a tad tricky to demystify the importance attached to this type of Scotch or any other kind of single malt whisky and what makes the spirit stand out.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes the single malt earnestly ‘single’ and why it is considered to be among some of the finest spirits to be produced in the realm of whisky distillation:
What does single malt whisky actually mean?
This is really straightforward. The term single malt can be broken down like this:
single: this word points out that the whisky is made at one single distillery
malt: this means that the whisky is made from finest malted barley
Hence the term single malt, to refer to whisky made from malted barley, distilled in pot stills at a single distillery.
So, single malts don’t come from the same barrel?
Absolutely not. Contrary to popular belief, single malts are many times a blend of different barrels from the same distillery; unless the bottle says ‘single cask’ – which does mean that the whisky comes from just one barrel. Otherwise, single malts stored in different casks are married to create a consistent brand style.
What is the difference between single malt and blended whisky?
Now that it is clear what a single malt really is, this difference is easy to spot:
blended whisky – is a spirit which is a mix of malt whisky and grain whisky, often sourced from multiple distilleries
blended malt whisky – is a liquor which is a mix of single malts from different distilleries
single malt – is simply made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery
Is single malt only from Scotland?
Not at all! This is a common misconception that single malt is just Scotch whisky. A single malt is a whisky made using 100% malted barley, so it can be made anywhere across the world using this grain.
While Scottish single malts might be rather popular, other countries like Ireland, India, Japan and America too are producing some excellent single malts following the simple adage: malted barley, pot stills, single distillery.
Also Read: Single Malt With Indian Cuisine: How To Pair Vegetarian Dishes Of India
What does the age on a single malt bottle signify?
As with all whiskies, age denotes the number of years that the youngest whisky in the bottle has spent in the cask. If a single malt bottle says it is aged 12 years, then the youngest whisky in the bottle has been matured for this duration of time in oak barrels.
Does single malt mean that it is of better quality?
Single malt is well-known among connoisseurs for the production process involved in its making. However, whether or not a single malt is chosen over a blended Scotch or any other grain whisky, is a matter of taste preferences. While single malts have a very distinct character and depth, there are some premium blended whiskies out there which are complete with just as much complexity and carry exquisite taste and smooth textures.
As an amateur whisky enthusiast, is it ok to begin whisky tasting with single malts?
Absolutely. If you happen to encounter a single malt, taste this whisky to delve into its deep and robust flavour notes, its smooth finish and its premium quality. This will become an interesting exploration of the flavour profile of this spirit.
However, as a beginner, do start off with a lighter, fruitier single malt and once you are familiar with these tasting notes, go for the deeper flavours of a peaty and smoky, Scottish single malt.
So, what makes the single malt stand out?
Well, it's simple really. The discussion around single malt is a result of the tradition, technique and skill that goes into making this exquisite whisky. Since the production of single malt follows certain set regulations, this premium liquor stands out precisely for this diligence and tradition that governs the making of the spirit.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
