Wemyss Malts Journal

Speyside is the most densely populated whisky region in the world, arguably the most abundant in history too, so there is plenty to cover with this region. With over 60 distilleries, Speyside is the Manhattan of whisky. Four of the five most popular single malts come from here and this is due to the history, the process and the character of their spirit. Carrying sweet notes of apple, vanilla, oak, nutmeg and dried fruit, the malts from this region are seen as both an entry level for the intrepid whisky novice but also a perfect attraction to the experienced whisky connoisseur....

According to the SWR (Scottish Whisky Regulations) there are five whisky regions: Lowland, Speyside, Islay, Highlands (Islands) and Campbeltown. The concept of the 'whisky region' has developed over the past half a century. Originally what started as a marketing strategy to display single malts from around Scotland as having distinct differences in character, flavour and style has evolved into more of a tradition than a guideline. Introduced to provide clarity for consumers, much akin to the wine regions of France and central Europe, the regions laid out the noticeable differences between a peaty Islay malt and a dry Lowland malt...

The Highland region is the largest, and one of the oldest, whisky regions and these days also incorporates the Islands (though some dispute this as an independent region). As it is the largest region, it is almost impossible for the whisky industry to arrive at a general character trait. If one was to try though, a Highland Single Malt's character is defined by tradition and history as being heavier, richer and more obviously flavoured due to their stills being smaller than other regions. This was due to the lack of access to barley meaning not as much spirit could be produced...

The whisky industry is full of language and jargon that sometimes needs to just be said in, well, English! But before we delve into the different scotch whiskies you can find, however, there are a few basics to cover. To qualify as 'Scotch Whisky' the liquid must be distilled and matured in Scotland, in oak barrels under 700l and for no less than 3 years and a day. Upon bottling the whisky cannot be below 40% alcohol by volume (ABV). So here are the five main scotch whiskies you will see: Single Malt Scotch Whisky This is the king of whiskies, and...