The Classic Malts

The Six Classic Malts of Scotland have been carefully selected to best represent the malt whisky producing regions of Scotland. Each is unique as a result of distinct water supplies, barley and distillery still formations and together they embrace the full diversity of regional tastes and styles.

The six main whisky producing areas which distil malt whisky are influenced by their specific location and traditions. The island malts from Skye, Jura, Mull and Orkney are characterised by a peaty, smoky nose and flavour. The island of Islay, off Scotland’s west coast, is home to many distinctive malts, with the sea air and peat combining to create the distinctive Islay tang found in many blended whiskies. The Highlands are the biggest malt whisky producing region and offers the widest variety of malts. Northern highland malts are generally sweeter and have more body than their lowland relations. The malt whisky produced in the Lowlands has always been lighter and drier in character than that from the Highlands, which is why these malts make such excellent aperitifs. Speyside malts are the sweetest whiskies, with a rich and complex flavour which, once recognised, is easy to identify. Formerly the home to nearly 30 distilleries in the past, the West Highland style of malts are generally mellow, un-peated and mostly fruity.

The Six Classic Malts of Scotland

Lowlands : Glenkinchie 10 Year Old

Western Highlands : Oban 14 Year Old

Speyside : Cragganmore 12 Years Old

Islands : Talksker 10 Year Old

Islay : Lagavulin 16 Year Old

Northern Highlands : Dalwhinnie 15 Years Old

If you are a seasoned malt whisky drinker or a first time taster on a voyage of discovery, the Classic Malts are the perfect entry to this wonderful world. It should come as no surprise to visitors to any of the distilleries that they are invariably set in some of the most spectacular scenery Scotland has to offer: it is only fitting, after all, that usige beath, the water of life, is made in God’s country.