Sip a dram the classic way or surprise guests with a smooth pairing
From Speyside’s lush valleys to the rolling Highland hills, Scotland’s got a wee love affair with whisky. It’s a romance that goes back in time to the late 1400s and spans the country, which now boasts more than 150 distilleries. So, what makes Scotch so special?
Simply put, Scotch is whisky with a Scottish passport, meaning the grain-based liquor has been distilled in Scotland and aged in an oak barrel. After that, the definition becomes more nuanced. There are two basic types of Scotch whisky, from which all blends are made: single malt and single grain. Single malt means the 100 per cent malted barley whisky has been distilled in a copper pot at one distillery and never blended. Single grain whisky has been distilled at one distillery but may include other grains. And then there are the blends, which means the whisky can be a unique recipe from multiple grains and distilleries.
Whether it’s a Speyside single malt like Glenfiddich 12, 14 or 15 Year Old, or The Balvenie 12 Year Doublewood, a Highland expression like Deanston Virgin Oak or a blended Scotch like Grant’s Triple Wood or Monkey Shoulder (crafted from Speyside malts), each dram tells a story of its origin. Smooth and well-balanced, this amber elixir is ideal for sipping on a cool evening or for serving up to guests with unexpected snacks and treats. Enjoy it neat, with a few drops of water or on the rocks — any way you pour it, it’s time for a fall fling with this fine spirit. Scroll down for some fresh ideas and unique pairings.
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Dynamic duos: Scotch and flavour pairings
Caramel and Spice
Pair with cheese: Scotch’s aromas of baked apple, caramel and spice work well with cheese. Nibble an aged gouda or cheddar alongside Glenfiddich 14 Year Old Bourbon Barrel Reserve.
Smoky and Sweet
Add a treat: Create an unexpectedly playful pairing by enjoying Scotch with a delightful puff of cotton candy. Try it with Grant's Triple Wood Blended Scotch Whisky.
Honey and Spice
Complement with sweet: Match the honeyed and caramel notes in Scotch by enjoying with a bit of honey comb. Look for orange blossom honey comb for something special to go with Deanston Virgin Oak.
