Tag: Scotland;

The Six Scottish Malt Regions

Scotland can be divided into six different malt making segments or regions; Islay, Campbeltown, speyside, Islands Lowlands and highlands. Each of these regions produce a different malt as the characteristics are different so too are the methods of distilling. Climate variations, raw materials, and production methods all play a roll in the differing of these malts.

Islay

This is a small island off the western coast of Scotland and is the site of many wonderful malt distilleries. They have many variations of malts however the most notable carry a tangy smoky peaty taste. The current number of running distilleries is at eight although at onetime there was said to be twenty-three, with the newest edition opened in 2005.

Lowlands

This mountainless and flat region is apparent by its name and is also in the most southern region of Scotland. This brew is contains less of the smoke, peat, and salt than most other malts coming from Scotland and it carries with it a mildly fiery yet smooth taste.

Speyside

This is undoubtedly the center of the whiskey universe in Scotland. The Spey River runs directly through the area hence the name. A good majority of top distilleries use water from the river in their processes. Although some of the characteristics vary in speyside it is still a part of the Highland geographically speaking. Someone interested in trying a traditional Scottish malt for the first time would do well with this malt, as it is rich and relatively mild in taste.

Highlands

The largest malt-producing region in Scotland is by far the Highlands. This brew is smoky and very rich. In comparison to malts from the lowlands, many of the different distilleries produce a different taste to their malts. This is caused by the varying microclimate differences. The use of many different raw materials and the inclusion of some changed production routines also contribute to these distinctions in taste

Campbeltown

At one time Campbeltown was Scotlands prime distillery site. Twenty-one distilleries were active in and around 1886 however only three are currently in business. This region is still considered a separate malt state for the value of historians.

Islands

Arran, Orkney, Mull, Jura, and skye make up the body of islands that sometimes get confused with Islay. This is in fact an entirely separate region. Those whom have some experience drinking malts generally enjoy the malts from this region.

All You Need To Know About Whiskey

In meaning, whiskey translates to water of life. Whiskey originated from Scotland during the early 1400’s, and is very popular around the world today. Even today, whiskey tastes much like it did when it first began. Manufacturers of whiskey are strong on heritage, and therefore do all they can to capture the flavor that whiskey has always been known for.

For any occasion, whiskey is truly great. Whiskey is commonly used during weddings and ceremonies, and both the bride and groom will drink it to signify a relationship that will stand the test of time. The drink isnt only served with weddings, as it is also popular in bars and restaurants as well. Those wishing to signify friendship can also serve whisky as a gesture of wanting to be friends.

Whiskey also makes a great gift for friends, employees, and even executives. Around the office, whiskey is very popular. When someone has had a tough day at work, few things bring out the best like whiskey. It can help someone relax, and make them feel at ease. Drink enough of it however – and you will feel as if you are king of the world!

Although it has many uses, one of the best is ice cubes. If you combine whiskey with ice cubes, the combination is truly inspiring. People often refer to it as whiskey on the rocks, as it is very commonly served in bars and restaurants. Whiskey on the rocks is also refreshing, as the ice cubes help to take some of the bite away from the otherwise strong and potent drink.

There are several variations of whiskey as well. Scottish whiskey, Jack Daniels, and Wild Turkey are among the most popular. Scottish whiskey is very popular in different parts of the world, while Jack Daniels is the preferred brand of whiskey in the United States. Jack is served at many bars and restaurants, and provides a great mixed drink if you pair it with Coke.

If youre looking to buy some whiskey for your home, youll never have to worry about having trouble finding it. ABC stores are the best source, although if you live in a state such as California you can find it at your local grocery or department store. Whiskey is one of the best selling forms of hard liquor, with thousands of people around the world drinking it quite frequently.

Easy to find and easy to use, whiskey is easily one of the best types of alcohol that you can buy. You can use it at parties or socials, or just keep it for yourself. Whiskey is also great the body, if you drink a shot of it a day. With various ways to be used and a bold crisp flavor – whiskey is something that you can never go wrong with.