Ever just wanted to sample a good whisky, but confused by all the different names, spellings and varieties? Single malts, blends, peaty, Highland, Irish, American… Yoh! Picking the right one feels like navigating a maze with no exit!
“Ah man, aren’t they all just whisky?” They might all be whisky, but let’s clear the fog on how they differ.
Single Malts:
There was a time when single malts were seen as inconsistent due to batch variations. However, distilleries have fine-tuned their craft, and today, single malts like Glenfiddich and Macallan are celebrated as some of the most premium whiskies available. These are distilled using a batch process at one distillery, resulting in rich, complex flavours.
Blends:
Blended whiskies mix single malts and grain whiskies from multiple distilleries, resulting in a smooth and consistent flavour. Johnnie Walker and Chivas Regal are like the comfort food of whiskies—reliable and perfect for any occasion.
So if you’re in the mood for something richly flavoured and full of character, reach reassuringly for a single malt. If you want something balanced and easy-going that’ll find favour with all your friends, picking up a blend is your best bet.
Next time you’re in the whisky aisle at your local TOPS, it’s worth remembering that, at the end of the day, the best whisky is the one you prefer or that suits the occasion!