The best varieties of scotch tape

I am glad to welcome you again, dear friends! I have so much to tell you! Dived into the topic - Scotch whiskey, its brands are the most popular and the best, how they differ and who produces. And I have learned so many interesting things that I hasten to share with you.

A little about scotch tape in general

As you know from the previous post, Scotland is considered the birthplace of whiskey, which there (that is, not only there, but everywhere) is called Scotch and on every bottle of the drink produced in this country of the Kingdom, there is the Whiskey Scotch mark.

There are several significant differences between the original Scotch Scotch and whiskey produced elsewhere, which can only be called Whiskey or Bourbon.

There are several types of Scotch whiskey:

• Malt - Scotch made from 100% barley malt only.
• Single Malt is a single malt whiskey made in one distillery and bottled there.
• Single Cask Malt is a mixture of multi-malt varieties aged in one barrel.
• Pure Malt is a composition of several brands of single malt whiskey produced in different distilleries, aged in one barrel.
• Blend is a blended whiskey, a combination of different types of malt and grain alcohols in varying proportions.
• Grain is a whiskey made from pure wheat alcohol of very high quality. This is the most expensive brand of unmalted scotch.
• Single Grain is also a pure grain whiskey, lower in the category.
• Grain Single Barrel is a scotch made from a mixture of grain alcohols, aged in one barrel for at least 6 months.
• Pure Grain is a combination of several grain drinks produced at different distilleries.

It's rare to find pure grain whiskey here. Most often it is a blend or single malt varieties. A total of 148 brands of Scottish Scotch are currently on the market.

The most famous brands of scotch tape

If you ask someone who knows a little about whiskey which brand is the most famous, he will no doubt name Johnnie walker... In Russian, the name sounds like Johnny Walker - this is the name of the founder of the distillery. The event happened back in 1820. It is now the world's best-selling brand. There are 5 Johnnie Walker labels:

• The cheapest is Red Label. Its manufacturer positions it as an "everyday" scotch tape. Consists of 35 varieties of barley, the base is the Cardu brand, aged in sherry barrels for 3 to 5 years.
  The cost of a bottle with us ranges from 1.8-2.0 thousand rubles per 0.7 liter bottle. Further I will indicate just such a spill - for convenience. The first price - in online stores and wholesalers, the second - in retail trade. This is the number 1 whiskey in the world. 7.5 million 9-liter crates are sold every year worldwide!

• Black Label is a great blend, aged over 12 years. It contains almost 40 single malt alcohols. It has the softest, honeyed taste and a light smoky note in the aroma. The cost is 3.0-4.2 thousand rubles.

• Gold Label, or it is also called the "Golden Label", has an aging of at least 18 years and is made up of 15 of the most valuable barley and grain alcohols. The recipe was developed for the centenary of the Johnny Walker & Sons Company. It is considered the most "honey and smoky" brand. Price - within 5-5.5 thousand rubles.

• Blue Label is one of the most valuable brands of a very rare blend. A limited edition of this composition is produced annually, in which each bottle (only 0.7 liters) has a personal number. The taste contains notes of smoke, dark chocolate, cedar and oriental spices. The cost of a bottle is from 15 to 20 thousand rubles. A variation is the Blue Label King George V Edition brand, half of the collection of which is supplied to the royal court, and the other is sold at auctions. According to journalists, almost everything goes to the United Arab Emirates.

• Platinum Label is the newest product of the company. Year of birth - 2011, the author of the blend is Jim Beveridge. Alcohols have been infused for at least 18 years, the composition is kept secret. Experts say that the blend was created under the influence of the blend master's trip to India. And therefore, scotch has a very strong, spicy and at the same time sweet taste with a traditional smoky aroma. The price is about 8 thousand rubles.

Among luxury whiskeys, the brand has been holding the championship for decades Chivas regal - products of the Chivas Brothers distillery (founded in 1801).

The blend is 39-41% malt whiskey. Available in three varieties: Chivas Regal 12 Y.O. with 12-year aging (price about 3 thousand rubles per 0.7 l), with 18-year-old - Chivas Regal Gold Signature 18 Y.O. (6.5 thousand rubles) and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50 Y.O., created for the 50th anniversary of the Queen's coronation in 2003.

Feature - colored bottles, imitating the play of precious stones on the royal crown. The price of an exclusive bottle is from 15 thousand rubles.

Whiskey scotch glenlivet, reads like Glenlivet, is one of the finest Single Malt brands. Date of birth - 1824. Withstands from 12 to 25 years. Drying of malt is carried out with peat smoke, which is practically fresh in composition, extracted only in one place.

It has a rather light golden color, honey flavor and delicate smoky floral fleur. Aged in bourbon barrels (one type is from sherry), and for almost 200 years now, water has been taken from only one source. Cost - from 4 thousand rubles. for a 12-year-old bottle up to 30-35 thousand - for a 25-year-old.

Famous grouse - the national pride of Scotland. Only there is the wild grouse partridge, which is shown on the label. Strength of drink 43% alc. Consists of malt spirits from two distilleries. The best-selling brand in Scotland itself.

And at the same time, many houses have their own recipes for how to make Faymous Grose. Connoisseurs note spices and orange in the taste, caramel in the aftertaste, and fruits (orange and cherry) and peat smoke in the aroma. The price is in the region of 2-2.5 thousand rubles.

Among the very famous and valuable brands, you should definitely name:

• Ballantine's - the third largest sales in the world. Has the title "Impeccable Taste". Price from 1000 r. for 3 years of age and up to 35 thousand for aging for 30 years.
• Cutty sark - the lightest and most original in taste variety. And the cheapest original scotch - from 800 rubles. per bottle
• Dewar's White label - the most complex blend in composition. Has a Royal Patent and over 400 international awards. Exposure from 3 to 25 years, price 4-25 thousand rubles.
• Glenfiddich or scotch tape with antlers. Every 4th bottle sold in the world has them on the label. This is an elite class single malt whiskey. A bottle with a 40-year-old drink costs 210 thousand rubles. The cheapest is about 4 thousand.

The most popular whiskey in Russia

Well, I want to finish my review with the most popular brand among my compatriots. Naturally, this is the White Horse - White horse... Also, this whiskey is the first in Japan, the second in Brazil and the third in the United States in popularity.

It is interesting that at home this drink is not even included in the top 20. But on the other hand, the manufacturer is White Horse Distillers Limited, the only one that has the Queen's Award for Achievements in the Development of International Trade.

Recently, the distilleries were bought by Diageo, which now owns almost half of the listed brands. The White Horse blend contains more than 20 types of malt and grain alcohols, the taste is sweet, with fruit, the aroma is smoky, with hints of vanilla.

On this I say goodbye, although I could still tell a lot of interesting things about scotch tape. I will switch to other drinks for now - well, so as not to be offended. Subscribe - and you will receive a letter with a new, exciting investigation on the topic of alcohol.And remember - everything is good in moderation!

Best regards, Pavel Dorofeev.

Aberlour Highlands 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is considered outstanding. Tea leaf and aroma of zest with subtle nuances of bread. Delicate yet rich, with a lot of flavor. Well balanced and fresh. Speyside Malt Whiskey Guide.

Ardbeg Isle of Islay 17 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is considered outstanding. Malty, flowery and smoky. Attractively oak. Super uniform, with a balance of peaty, floral and honey flavors. Delightful.

Bowmore Isle of Islay 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as a classic. Peat city. Classic Islay. Like a campfire in front of you. Iodine and peaty, with a hint of tea and smoke. The great and powerful. If you want Islay, drink it.

Caol Ila Isle of Islay 15 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as a classic. A distinctive and serious whiskey. Parts of iodine, saltiness and floral aroma with traces of peat. Will give you taste. Long, long finish.

Cardhu Highlands 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Not massive, but delicate malt. Focused character. A scent of walnut, honey and garlic, with a woody addition. Lots of taste. Peaty, smoky aftertaste.

Cragganmore Highlands 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. An intriguing bouquet of aromas, vanilla, coconut and hay. Very gentle and pleasant. The malt is felt more on the nose than on the palate. Sit back in your chair and suck in the air of this whiskey.

Dalwhinnie Highlands 15 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Pale color. The aroma is reminiscent of Fino sherry, with a touch of salt, sea and honey. Light and delicate. A lot of skill and taste. Salt and freshness at the finish. Good aperitif.

Glenfarclas Highlands 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Fatty and rich whiskey. Bread, toffee and smoke, with hints of sherry oak flavor. Big and bread in the sky. Perceived with a full mouth. Malt whiskey for Chardanne lovers.

Glen Grant Highlands 17 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, they are considered outstanding. Excellent aperitif style. A pleasant, harmonious spirit with a lemon grain, floral and honey aroma and taste. Fresh vision. Outstanding for this style.

Glenmorangie Highlands Sherry Wood Finish Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, they are considered outstanding. Gently scalding taste dissolution. Complex aromas of smoke, honey, caramel, vanilla and orange seed. Creeps up to the sky and finishes as well as possible, with great character.

Glenmorangie Highlands Madeira Wood Finish Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. A good malt whiskey for starters. Creamy, vanilla and sherry aromas. Attractive but not exhilarating. Medium-bodied. Average aftertaste. A very good drink.

Glenmorangie Highlands Port Wood Finish Single Malt Scotch. Curious whiskey. Excessively reddish color. Unusual aromas of raspberry, fruit and wood. Medium-bodied, with grape and alcohol flavors. Not your typical single malt whiskey.

Glenmorangie Highlands 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. Refreshing and easy to drink. Light color. A very sweet oaky scent with hints of cheap cologne and talcum powder. Lightweight and refreshing finish.

Glenrother Speyside Distilled in 1982 Single Malt Scotch. There is no characteristic assertiveness. Hints of iodine, smoke and earth scent. Very spicy and poorly welded, with a bready, aggressive character.

Glen Keith Highlands Distitilled Before 1983 Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Speyside malt whiskey with a special flavor. Salted hazelnuts with a milky, creamy tone. A similar character is felt on the palate, manifested in the aftertaste.

Glendronach Highlands 15 years old Single Malt Scotch. Burnt toffee, crème brulee on the palate, a lot of oak. Very, very woody. Slightly bready, rosin-like aftertaste. Aged 100% in sherry barrels.

Glenfiddich Highlands Special Reserve A light single malt whiskey with a light taste and a fresh finish. Very light color. Youthful aromas of hay and flowers.

Glengoyne Highlands 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. Rather ordinary. Sweet scent of coconut, milk and cream. Spicy and bready on the palate. Excessive wood. Not enough body.

Glenkinchie Lowlands 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. Almost nothing is felt in the nose, except for pure alcohol and droplets of wood and straw, but bread in the palate. Light and light, with some straw and smoky character and a refreshing and sweet aftertaste.

Highland Park Orkney Islands 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. A light scent of earth, attractive to the palate. The aroma of quin (bark), oil and alcohol. Delicate with almond, peaty and nutty flavors. Long honey aftertaste.

Isle of Jura Isle of Jura 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, they are considered outstanding. Big surprise. Delicate aroma of salted almonds, peat and iodine. The finest taste with a high and fresh aftertaste that rolls over and over again. Almost classic quality.

Knockando Speyside Distilled in 1984 Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Lightweight yet elegant. Pale color. Creamy, cereal and floral aroma. Soft and pleasant to drink.

Lagavulin Isle of Isley 16 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Stylish and full of flavor. Spicy peat, salt, iodine and orange in the aroma, with a pleasant woody and vanilla character. Salty, pungent taste of the sea breeze on the palate. Long taste. Easy bread finish.

Laphroaig Isle of Islay 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Rough and malleable and very good. Unmistakable Islay. Intense peaty, iodine and stained character. Very, very smoky, with peat in the foreground. Slightly dry at the finish. An almost outstanding whiskey.

Ledaig Isle of Mull Over 15 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as a classic. Perfectly balanced and balanced. From Tobermory. Delightful, fresh scent of honey, bread, peat and hay. Summer and lovely. Medium to full-bodied with a lush floral flavor. Dry finish.

Longmorn Highlands 15 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, they are considered outstanding. Speyside at its most elegant. Bright and lively with floral and honey aromas. Fresh and delicate with a fresh, delicate and refreshing finish.

Oban West Highlands 14 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, they are considered outstanding. Whiskey for thought. Complex aroma of walnut, marzipan, peat, roasted oak and malt. Harmonious and pleasant malt, with a delicious taste and a long and juicy aftertaste. Almost classic.

Old Fettercairn Highlands 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. Oily and woody with a waxy character. Heavy in both aroma and taste.

Old Pulteney 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. Produces distillery Inver House, built on the site of the oldest and northernmost distillery in Scotland - Pulteney. The brand has a strong position at the bottom of the prestigious top-selling list in the single malt scotch tape sector.

Royal Challenge Premium Blended Mixed Scotch Tape from Shaw Wallace. For blending, malt whiskeys of Lowland and Eisley are used with small admixtures of Highland. Distillation, mixing, aging and filling takes place at the Morrison Bowmore distillery in Scotland. First appeared in June 1999.

Scapa Orkney 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. A refreshing and invigorating single malt whiskey. Vanilla, honey and floral aromas. Medium-bodied, with a creamy and pale nutty flavor. Fresh finish.

Strathisla Highlands 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. With an overly woody aroma with a sweet vanilla accent.

Talisker Isle of Skye 10 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as a classic. It has collected in itself a lot of things. Very complex and exciting. Pleasant malty, tobacco, zest and fresh ginger tones. Rich and warming mouth, heavy haze, muffin and honey. A very long finish.

The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whiskey. Produced by Scotland's family business, Matthew Gloag & Son Ltd, founded in the early 20th century. The success of the drink came after the granddaughter of Matthew, the founder of the company, Philip, made an original sketch of the label, using the national symbol of Scotland - the red partridge.

The Macallan Highlands 17 years old Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, they are considered outstanding. McAllan is always a winner. Abundant taste of oak, with a mass of cedar wood and the specificity of a box of cigars. A big sip with an abundance of flavor.Nut flavor at the finish.

The Macallan Highlands 18 years old / 1979 Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Slightly exaggerated for us. Dark color. A bit like Oloroso sherry with tobacco, oak and toffee flavors. A little awkward, almost oaky, with a juicy, tobaccoy character.

The Macallan Millennium Decanter 50 year old Single Malt Scotch. Handcrafted decanter, glass from Caithness Glass, copper label fused into the glass. Designed by 2000 and first exhibited in Bordeaux in June 1999 at Vinexpo.

The Singleton of Auchroisk Speyside 10 years old According to tasting ratings, it is classified as very good. Pure toffee, honey and aniseed and brown sugar flavor. Medium-bodied with chocolate, coffee and licorice flavors. Round and warming.

The Glenlivet Highlands 12 years old Single Malt Scotch. Fresh style, with a lot of cereal, marzipan and pear character. Simpler in the sky. Fresh and clean finish.

Tobermory Isle of Mull Single Malt Scotch. According to tasting ratings, it is classified as a classic. Spice and excitement. Malt and hay, salt and bread and subtle hints of earth and wood. Concentrated and full on the palate. Very long aftertaste. Get to know him better.

I am glad to welcome you again, dear friends! I have so much to tell you! Dived into the topic - Scotch whiskey, its brands are the most popular and the best, how they differ and who produces. And I have learned so many interesting things that I hasten to share with you.

A little about scotch tape in general

As you know from the previous post, Scotland is considered the birthplace of whiskey, which there (that is, not only there, but everywhere) is called Scotch and on every bottle of the drink produced in this country of the Kingdom, there is the Whiskey Scotch mark.

There are several significant differences between the original Scotch Scotch and whiskey produced elsewhere, which can only be called Whiskey or Bourbon.

There are several types of Scotch whiskey:

• Malt - Scotch made from 100% barley malt only.
• Single Malt is a single malt whiskey made in one distillery and bottled there.
• Single Cask Malt is a mixture of multi-malt varieties, aged in one barrel.
• Pure Malt is a composition of several brands of single malt whiskey produced in different distilleries, aged in one barrel.
• Blend is a blended whiskey, a combination of different types of malt and grain alcohols in varying proportions.
• Grain is a whiskey made from pure wheat alcohol of very high quality. This is the most expensive brand of unmalted scotch.
• Single Grain is also a pure grain whiskey, lower in the category.
• Grain Single Barrel is a scotch made from a mixture of grain alcohols, aged in one barrel for at least 6 months.
• Pure Grain is a combination of several grain drinks produced at different distilleries.

It's rare to find pure grain whiskey here. Most often it is a blend or single malt varieties. A total of 148 brands of Scottish Scotch are currently on the market.

The most famous brands of scotch tape

If you ask someone who knows a little about whiskey which brand is the most famous, he will no doubt name Johnnie walker... In Russian, the name sounds like Johnny Walker - this is the name of the founder of the distillery. The event happened back in 1820. It is now the world's best-selling brand. There are 5 Johnnie Walker labels:

• The cheapest is Red Label. Its manufacturer positions it as an "everyday" scotch tape. Consists of 35 varieties of barley, the base is the Cardu brand, aged in sherry barrels for 3 to 5 years.
  The cost of a bottle with us ranges from 1.8-2.0 thousand rubles per 0.7 liter bottle. Further I will indicate just such a spill - for convenience. The first price - in online stores and wholesalers, the second - in retail trade. This is the number 1 whiskey in the world. 7.5 million 9-liter crates are sold every year worldwide!

• Black Label is a great blend, aged over 12 years. It contains almost 40 single malt alcohols. It has the softest, honeyed taste and a light smoky note in the aroma. The cost is 3.0-4.2 thousand rubles.

• Gold Label, or it is also called the "Golden Label", has an aging of at least 18 years and is made up of 15 of the most valuable barley and grain alcohols. The recipe was developed for the centenary of the Johnny Walker & Sons Company. It is considered the most "honey and smoky" brand. Price - within 5-5.5 thousand rubles.

• Blue Label is one of the most valuable brands of a very rare blend.A limited edition of this composition is produced annually, in which each bottle (only 0.7 liters) has a personal number. The taste contains notes of smoke, dark chocolate, cedar and oriental spices. The cost of a bottle is from 15 to 20 thousand rubles. A variation is the Blue Label King George V Edition brand, half of the collection of which is supplied to the royal court, and the other is sold at auctions. According to journalists, almost everything goes to the United Arab Emirates.

• Platinum Label is the newest product of the company. Year of birth - 2011, the author of the blend is Jim Beveridge. Alcohols have been infused for at least 18 years, the composition is kept secret. Experts say that the blend was created under the influence of the blend master's trip to India. And that's why scotch tape has a very strong, spicy and at the same time sweet taste with a traditional smoky aroma. The price is about 8 thousand rubles.

Among luxury whiskeys, the brand has been holding the championship for decades Chivas regal - products of the Chivas Brothers distillery (founded in 1801).

The blend is 39-41% malt whiskey. Available in three varieties: Chivas Regal 12 Y.O. with 12-year aging (price about 3 thousand rubles for 0.7 l), with 18-year-old - Chivas Regal Gold Signature 18 Y.O. (6.5 thousand rubles) and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50 Y.O., created for the 50th anniversary of the Queen's coronation in 2003.

Feature - colored bottles, imitating the play of precious stones on the royal crown. The price of an exclusive bottle is from 15 thousand rubles.

Whiskey scotch glenlivet, reads like Glenlivet, is one of the finest Single Malt brands. Date of birth - 1824. Withstands from 12 to 25 years. Drying of malt is carried out by the smoke of peat, which is practically fresh in composition, extracted only in one place.

It has a rather light golden color, honey flavor and delicate smoky-floral fleur. Aged in bourbon barrels (one type is from sherry), and for almost 200 years now, water has been taken from only one source. Cost - from 4 thousand rubles. for a 12-year-old bottle up to 30-35 thousand - for a 25-year-old.

Famous grouse - the national pride of Scotland. Only there is the wild grouse partridge, which is shown on the label. Strength of drink 43% alc. Consists of malt spirits from two distilleries. The best-selling brand in Scotland itself.

And at the same time, many houses have their own recipes for how to make Faymous Grose. Connoisseurs note spices and orange in the taste, caramel in the aftertaste, and fruits (orange and cherry) and peat smoke in the aroma. The price is in the region of 2-2.5 thousand rubles.

Among the very famous and valuable brands, you should definitely name:

• Ballantine's - the third largest sales in the world. Has the title "Impeccable Taste". Price from 1000 r. for 3 years of age and up to 35 thousand for aging 30 years.
• Cutty sark - the lightest and most original in taste variety. And the cheapest original scotch - from 800 rubles. per bottle
• Dewar's White label - the most complex blend in composition. Has a Royal Patent and over 400 international awards. Exposure from 3 to 25 years, price 4-25 thousand rubles.
• Glenfiddich or scotch tape with antlers. Every 4th bottle sold in the world has them on the label. This is an elite class single malt whiskey. A bottle with a 40-year-old drink costs 210 thousand rubles. The cheapest is about 4 thousand.

The most popular whiskey in Russia

Well, I want to finish my review with the most popular brand among my compatriots. Naturally, this is the White Horse - White horse... Also, this whiskey is the first in Japan, the second in Brazil and the third in the United States in popularity.

It is interesting that at home this drink is not even included in the top 20. But on the other hand, the manufacturer is White Horse Distillers Limited, the only one that has the Queen's Award for Achievements in the Development of International Trade.

Recently, the distilleries were bought by Diageo, which now owns almost half of the listed brands. There are more than 20 types of malt and grain alcohols in the White Horse blend, the taste is sweet, with fruit, the aroma is smoky, with hints of vanilla.

On this I say goodbye, although I could still tell a lot of interesting things about scotch tape. I will switch to other drinks for now - well, so as not to be offended. Subscribe - and you will receive a letter with a new, exciting investigation on the topic of alcohol. And remember - everything is good in moderation!

Best regards, Pavel Dorofeev.

Whiskey is an exquisite alcoholic beverage made from various types of grains using special methods of distillation, storage and aging. Usually it is drunk neat or mixed in cocktails.Like any other type of alcoholic product, this drink is produced in both the highest and the lower quality. In this article, we will give a rating of whiskey so that you can decide which option to buy for a home feast, which one is not a shame to give to a big boss, and which one to use as an investment for the future. After all, collectible bottles “go” from auctions for many thousands of dollars.

Rating of the best whiskey according to the authoritative magazine "Bibliya Whiskey"

First, it should be noted that the best whiskey is Scotch (Scotch) and Irish. A separate rating is often compiled, exclusively for these species. The aging and composition are also important - after all, the drink can be single-malt, double-malt and multi-malt. Even the material from which the barrels for storing alcohol are made matters (oak are considered the best). Taking into account all these factors, and make up the rating of whiskey. So, let's listen to the opinion of experts and see how the reputable sommeliers of the American magazine “Bible of Whiskey” distributed the prizes:

1. In the first place - whiskey Old Pulteney 21 YO, earned 97.5 estimated points out of 100 possible. The price for 700 ml is about $ 200-250, which is pretty good for the first place holder.

2. The second place of honor, according to the experts of the "Bible of Whiskey", must be given to the noble drink George T. Stagg, the price of which is about 150-160 dollars per bottle.

3. Third place goes to Parker's Heritage Collection Wheated Mash Bill Bourbon 10 YO. Its cost is much less - only $ 80-90 for a 750 ml bottle.

We have named three main winners of the ranking. Then the experts looked at the best varieties in various categories, for example: "Scotch" (Scotch whiskey), "Single malt scotch", "Irish" and "American whiskey". I must say that this, perhaps, the most authoritative rating of whiskey in the world does not include the varieties of drink widely known to Russian buyers. Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 YO, more or less familiar to us, was recognized as one of the best in the “Blended Scotch” category.

The most delicious whiskey: customer opinion

Agree, you can take into account the opinions of experts about what is the best whiskey in the world. But is it worth relying on them when talking about the taste of the product? After all, sommeliers evaluate drinks according to some special, semi-secret criteria, and what they may seem like a divine pleasure, the average customer will not like it at all. So let's take a look at the taste rating of whiskey based on consumer feedback as well as sales estimates. So, in the first place is William Lawson's drink (Baccardi company), Johnnie Walker Black Label is firmly in second place, Maccalan whiskey is in third place. Whether the experts agree with such a rating is a big question ... The above Top-3 drinks were compiled on the basis of sales growth data for 2013.

Whiskey rating in the world: top 10 most expensive drinks

Now we have come, perhaps, to the most interesting thing, because collectible whiskeys cost tens of thousands of dollars, and few people buy them just to enjoy a fragrant drink sitting by the fireplace and smoking a cigar. Such bottles are considered as investments and are carefully stored in special cabinets, which, by the way, also cost a lot of money. So, we present to your attention another whiskey rating. The main selection criterion in it was the price for one bottle of the drink (the rating was compiled on the basis of data from 2013):

1. In the first place - a blended of three varieties of whiskey Macallan, a blend of 1946, at a price of $ 460,000 per bottle. Believe me, the cost of the drink will only grow over the years.

2. On the second - Glenfiddich Janet Sheed Roberts Reserve 1955 whiskey at a price of 94,000 dollars per bottle (compared to the owner of the first place, this cost seems extremely "affordable").

3. The third place is again at Macallan, but already a blend of 1926. Price - $ 75,000 per bottle.

4.The fourth position is taken by Glenfiddich from 1937 - it seems that the brands Glenfiddich and Macallan have entered a serious competition in terms of price and product quality. The cost of a bottle of Glenfiddich 1937 is $ 71,700.

5. In fifth place is the rare brand Dalmore 62 Highland Malt Scotch Matheson at a price of $ 58,000 per bottle.

6. Positions from six to ten were taken by Macallan 55, Dalmore 50, Glenfarclas 1955, Macallan 1939 and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50, where the last digit in the name is the number of years of aging. Prices per bottle range from $ 15,500 for the Macallan 55 to $ 10,000 exactly for the Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50.

Popularity rating of inexpensive whiskeys

Of course, it's good to be a millionaire and have a bottle of ten SUVs in stock ... However, not everyone has such a pleasure. Therefore, let's take a look at the ranking of whiskey by popularity. It includes exactly those drinks that are available to the average consumer, since their price does not exceed $ 30–40 for a standard 0.7 liter bottle. In the process of compiling the rating, the taste of the drink, quality, aftertaste and other important criteria were taken into account.

1. First place belongs to Kingdom 12 Year Old Scotch whiskey: the product has 12 years of aging and a soft aftertaste.

2. Second on the list is Town Branch Bourbon, a famous American brand.

3. The third is Elmer T. Lee Bourbon Whiskey.

4. The fourth position is occupied by Black Bottle Blended Scotch whiskey (experts say that this “scotch” has a bright aftertaste with fruity notes).

5. In fifth place - Russell's Reserve 6 Year Old Straight Rye Whiskey, it is noteworthy that its fortress is 45 degrees.

Value for Money: Continued Popularity Rankings for Inexpensive Whiskeys

If you are a lover, not a connoisseur of this drink, the first five names given above are unlikely to cause you any associations. But, continuing the rating, you will finally see familiar brands in the list. So:

6. Six-year-old Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is in sixth place.

7. The seventh line in this rating is given to Pescadores Pumpkin Whiskey. This Thai drink has fruity and floral notes.

8. In eighth position - Smooth Ambler Exceptional White Whiskey. It is said to have a distinct corn flour flavor.

9. The ninth place was taken by a brand more or less familiar to Russians: Johnny Drum Green Label drink has a standard 40 degrees and a slightly spicy taste.

10. And the last, tenth place is given to Johnny Drum Black Label, which also has a strength of 40 degrees, and in its taste and aftertaste - hints of vanilla and ... leather.

So, we reviewed the whiskey rating compiled by experts in 2013. The main criterion in it was the price-quality ratio. The article mentioned that whiskey is also included in cocktails. Which ones? Read on.

Popular cocktails containing whiskey

Making alcoholic mixes is a whole art. A professional bartender can name a dozen cocktails that include the drink in question. Here are the best and most popular ones:

• the famous “whiskey-cola” mix (even if there are only two ingredients, but still a cocktail) - a real hit of sales;
• a cocktail called "Nail" or "Red Nail", which also includes whiskey and Scottish liqueur "Drambuie";
• many people love Irish Coffee, a hot drink to which whiskey is also added.

In general, it is customary to drink the noble “Scotch” or “Single Malt” simply with ice, so there are not many cocktails with the addition of this Scottish or Irish drink. So, we reviewed the rating of whiskey - the most expensive, as well as the most inexpensive, but at the same time of high quality, and the most popular among buyers. We hope our article will help you choose your drink or decide on a gift for a friend or colleague, because alcohol in this category is often used as a present for a birthday or any other holiday.

Table of contents:

1. Single malt whiskey
2. Blended whiskey
3. Grain whiskey
4. The best whiskey in the world
5. How to choose whiskey?

Whiskey is a distilled beverage made from various grains. There are stages in its preparation:

1. Germination of seeds (malting).
2. Fermentation.
3. Distillation.
4. Aging in oak barrels.

Whiskey is usually made from barley or wheat, but sometimes it can be made from rye. Separately, there is bourbon, which is made from corn.The strength of whiskey can vary within a very wide range, more often it is 32-50%, but sometimes there are drinks containing 60% alcohol. This variety makes it difficult to decide which whiskey to choose.

According to the difference in production technology, there are three types of whiskey:

• malt;
• blended;
• grain.

Single malt whiskey

This type of this drink is usually the answer to the question of which whiskey is the best, since it is considered elite, the most expensive and of the highest quality. Whiskey connoisseurs enjoy the best single malt whiskey. The production technology of this drink is the longest, since it must be infused in oak barrels for at least 3 years. The average exposure time is 10 years at all.

Single malt (malt whiskey) whiskey is a drink made from sprouted barley (barley malt). It must be distinguished from a grain whiskey so as not to be confused about which whiskeys are considered good.

The amazing ability of this whiskey is the dependence of its aroma and taste on the place of production.

But single malt whiskey is not all the same, but has several subspecies:

• Actually single malt whiskey is made at the same distillery, although it allows a blend of fractions from different years of harvest.
• Single cask whiskey comes from a single cask, it can have a cask strength, but it is often brought to the standard.
• Quarter cask whiskey is taken from a smaller barrel, which must be made of American oak. In this case, the strength of the drink increases to 50%, the taste is richer, and the ripening process is accelerated. This type of whiskey is most often chosen by the stronger sex, which is not surprising.
• The last type is pure malt (otherwise, blended malt or vatted malt) - a mixture of different distilleries.

Regarding single malt whiskey, there was a not unfounded opinion that it had a too pungent smell and a somewhat unusual taste. For this reason, they began to mix it with other types of whiskey. But this drink can no longer be called a single malt whiskey.

Video on which whiskeys are considered good

Although any single malt whiskey is produced according to the standard technology, in each region it acquires its own specific flavor, by which it is easy to distinguish it from others.

Producers have a little secret that they don't like to advertise too much: there are two distinct types - consumer whiskey and merchant whiskey. Both varieties are good. The only difference is that whiskey from merchants is produced in small distilleries, so it costs more. The consumer version is made on an industrial scale, so it is closer to the definition of a good inexpensive whiskey. There is also a difference in personality. Consumer whiskey has a standard good taste and aroma, and the bouquet of whiskey from the merchants "dances" strongly, and not necessarily for the better.

The location of a particular distillery and the peculiarities of the climate inevitably affect the qualities of single malt whiskey, so each batch is unique in taste. The water used in production is just as important as the way it is distilled.

The best single malt whiskey can be found in bottles with the following names:

• Glen Grant, Glenfiddich.
• Bowmore, Highland Park.
• Aberlour Single Malt.

Blended whiskey

It is this type of whiskey that can be found most often in most stores, it is the most affordable. The prices are quite reasonable, and the taste is quite pleasant.

Blending refers to the blending of malt whiskeys with grains in the production of malt whiskeys. In total, the blend can include up to 50 different varieties. If the label contains the words "Deluxe" or "Premium", it means that the blend is made up of only elite expensive sorts, and the best sorts of whiskey are in front of the buyer.

If we consider the issue in terms of sales volume, then in the world 90% of the sold whiskey is blended.There are whiskeys that contain a minimum of malt, such as Chivas Regal, although the producers trumpet otherwise. Drinks with a high proportion of malt are labeled with the word "Delux", which you need to know before choosing a good whiskey. For those who still do not understand the difference in tastes of different whiskeys, it is best to study them by blended drinks.

Andrew Usher in 1853 developed the first blended whiskey recipe, it became the most common and was later called "Old Vatted Glenlivet". Whiskey production in England has come under government control since 1860. The point of blending is not so much to get a unique bouquet, but to maintain its stability from year to year. Any batch of drink selected for blending is immediately tasted after distillation. And which whiskey is better: single malt or blended - everyone decides for himself.

Notable representatives of blended whiskeys are:

• Ballantines.
• Chivas Regal.
• Bell's.

Grain whiskey

Experts attribute grain whiskey to the lowest quality, even call it technical. Such a drink is made from burnt barley or corn. Grain whiskey also has a significant technological difference from malt whiskey in its production - for its distillation, special distillation stills are used, in which steam contributes to the continuous production of alcohol. On the open market, such a drink appears quite rarely, since it has almost no smell or taste. But after additional purification, it is used as a semi-finished product for the production of vodka or gin.

Notable brands of grain whiskey:

• Greenore.
• Choice Old Cameron Brig.

The best whiskey in the world

Whiskey producers established the World Whiskies Award in 2007, which became a kind of Oscar for them. Moreover, several nominations were highlighted:

• best malt;
• best single malt;
• best blended,

as well as the best whiskey by producer country:

• best Japanese;
• best Irish single malt, etc.

The historical spelling of the word "whiskey" is whiskey, but in the late 19th century, a distorted word "whiskey" arose to distinguish producers in other countries.

New winners are announced every year, so the question of which whiskey is better is more rhetorical. So, in 2014 the following brands won:

• Sullivans Cove French Oak Cask - the best single malt whiskey in the world;
• Taketsuru 17 Years Old - the best blended whiskey;
• The Lost Distilleries Blend - the best blended whiskey;
• Sons of Liberty Pumpk in Spice - Best Flavored Whiskey
• Master of Malt Speyside Whiskey Liqueur 40 Years Old - the best whiskey liqueur in the world;
• Teeling Single Grain - the best single grain whiskey;
• Thomas H Handy Sazerac is the finest rye whiskey.

How to choose whiskey?

The qualities of whiskey, like other drinks, depend on the ingredients and their proportions, and they create a unique bouquet.

Barley malt is the main ingredient in Scotch whiskeys, and minimalism reigns here. But the Irish decided to add rye there, which has become an integral part of the rich taste. America brought corn and wheat, and in Japan, rice and corn are added to whiskey along with barley.

A rather free choice and a combination of the original ingredients will not help in deciding which drink is the best - this is solely a matter of personal taste. When it comes to the best classic whiskeys, Scottish and Irish drinks are undoubtedly in the lead. It is important to learn how to drink whiskey correctly in order to feel the full flavor of the drink.

Video on which whiskey is the best

Choosing a whiskey in a store, you should look at its composition and strength. The more modest the composition and the higher the strength, the more solid the whiskey is. A good whiskey can be light yellow to brown in color.

The presence of sediment is not allowed.

On the walls of the bottle, when turning over, the liquid should go in a "stocking", and not in streams. After shaking the bottle with a drink, large air bubbles that do not disappear for a long time should appear in it.

Do you like whiskey? Which variety do you think is the best? Share your opinion in the comments.

There are quite a few whiskey varieties in the world.For centuries, the producers of strong wine have perfected the production technology, tested the recipes for creating a unique alcohol. As a result of many years of trial and error, distillers around the world began to produce several of the most sought-after varieties.

Whiskey varieties

In accordance with the raw materials used and the production technology, the following varieties are distinguished:

Malt whiskey

The most expensive and refined is the single malt whiskey. What does this mean? This alcohol is made from barley using a special technology and is made in accordance with old recipes and traditions. Originally, single malt whiskey was used as the basis for blending blended spirits.

In 1960, at the Glenfiddich distillery in Scotland, an old recipe for single malt alcohol was restored. Connoisseurs of good wine appreciated the revealed taste and aroma qualities of this noble drink. Since that time, single malt whiskey began to rapidly conquer the world alcohol market.

In turn, this type of strong alcohol has several options. What is the difference between single malt whiskeys?

1. Vatted malt - cask whiskey. This type of drink is born from the mixing of malt alcohol from various distilleries (pure molt). The technology of whiskey production at different enterprises is practically the same. But the water used and the special climatic conditions make the alcohol of each distillery individual. When mixing strong wines from different manufacturers, a noble drink of unique taste and aroma is obtained. This whiskey can be called two-malt, although officially such a concept does not exist in the technology of alcohol production.
2. Single malt - whiskey from one distillery. For the production of this type of alcohol, the manufacturer uses only single malt whiskey of its own production. In the technology of creating a drink, mixing only the same type of alcohol of varying degrees of aging is allowed.
3. Single cask - whiskey from one barrel. When creating this type of alcohol, the manufacturer varies only in strength. Extracted from one barrel, whiskey can have its own barrel strength, acquired during maturation, or it can be brought by the creator to a standard strength.

Grain whiskey

This type of strong whiskey is made mainly from corn. It is the lowest-tasting drink that has no aroma. Scope of the drink - use for blending. Although a small batch of pure grain whiskey goes on sale.

The drink, which is planned to be used for blending, undergoes single distillation. With more thorough distillation (up to 5 times), alcohol is used to create vodka and gin.

Blended (Blend whiskey)

90% of the production volume is blended drink. What is the difference between single malt alcohol and blended alcohol? The answer is simple - the composition. Blended spirits are composed of single malt and grain whiskeys. Each producer of spirits creates its own unique bouquet, taking into account the traditions and preferences of the consumer. The most famous and noble is the Scottish blended version.

When getting acquainted with this amazing drink, many people have a question - which whiskey is better single malt or blended. You can find the answer to this question only by trying these drinks. As you know, there is no comrade in taste and color. Some people like the rich bouquet created as a result of the blend. Someone prefers a discreet, monogamous drink. This problem can be solved only by experience. And everyone will have their own solution.

Bourbon

Another type is bourbon. This is an American whiskey made from corn using a special technology. And, although it belongs to the category of whiskey, it has an absolutely unique taste and aroma, different from other types of this alcohol.

Classification by place of production

In addition to the classification by composition, the drink is also divided by the country of origin.

• Scottish (scotch). The most common whiskey is produced in Scotland. According to tradition, Scotch is the whiskey for which the spirit was produced in Scotland. And no matter in what part of the world this drink was bottled. A huge number of distilleries supply single malt and blended whiskey to the world market.
• Irish. A distinctive feature of this alcohol is the absence of a smoky aftertaste. Alcohol with such properties is born thanks to the special maturation process and the container used.
• American. In America, spirits are made from corn, rye and a small amount of barley. Due to the peculiarities in the technological process and the unique recipe, the drink differs significantly from the Scottish and Irish.
• Canadian. In Canada, the main raw material for alcohol production is rye. The label "RYE" is found on the labels of this drink.
• Japanese. Alcohol produced in Japan goes to the Asian market, it is almost impossible to taste it here.... The quality of Japanese whiskey is similar to scotch. The difference lies in the absence of a peaty flavor.

Each species is original in its own way and deserves attention. The final choice remains with the consumer.

When I got the idea to write an article about Scotch whiskey, it was already quite cold outside, and winter was gradually coming to the whole territory of Russia. It is in the cold and dank seasons, sometimes, after a working day, you want to warm up, perhaps your most favorite strong drink - whiskey.

For many centuries, it was Scotland that was the leader in the production of whiskey, so they have achieved an incredible variety of tastes and smells of this wonderful drink. The efforts that Scotland's distillers are making to perfect their national beverage is exciting. It seems that for them there is no limit of perfection. That is why this article is about Scotch Whiskey.

The first written mention of whiskey was found in the records of the Treasury Tax Office of Scotland, which are dated June 1, 1495. The notes stated: "By order of the king, give Brother John Cora eight boxes of malt for the 'water of life' made."

"Water of life" - this was the name of the alcoholic drink that was distilled from malt. Subsequently, the drink was given the name - whiskey. If you count the amount of whiskey you get from 8 boxes of malt, you get about 1,500 bottles, which the monk John produced in 1494.

Scotland

Over the decades, whiskey has been gaining popularity throughout Scotland. In 1644, the government began levying taxes on whiskey producers in order to generate income from the drink and control all production. However, despite all attempts to regulate and receive income from distillers, people began to produce whiskey clandestinely and this activity flourished more than ever.
By 1780, Scotland had 8 official distilleries and over 400 underground. By 1823, the local parliament realized that it would be possible to bring producers out of the shadows only by easing tax collections. This is how the Excise Act was born.

The popularity of Scotch whiskey was gaining momentum again by 1831 with the advent of a new production method. Now, thanks to new technology, distilleries were able to produce softer alcohols at a significantly lower cost.

In 1880, Scotch whiskey began its worldwide expansion thanks to a small insect that devoured vineyards in France. Vineyards began to be cut down en masse, which led to a drop in the production of wine and cognac. And since wine and cognac were the most popular drinks that were consumed every day, they had to be replaced with something. Actually, Scotch whiskey has become a new popular drink all over the world.

There are two main types of Scotch whiskey in the world: single malt and grain. Of these types, 3 subcategories still stand out: blended, malt blended, grain blended.

Scotch whiskey

1. Single Malt Scotch Whiskey

Single malt Scotch whiskey is by far the most popular type of whiskey in the world.Basically, it is a whiskey produced in a single distillery using malted barley (malt) and water. Single malt whiskey contains no other grains and must be produced exclusively in Scotland.

2. Grain Scotch Whiskey

Grain Scotch whiskey is less common in the world. Whole grain whiskey is produced using malt, water, and various grains or cereals. Grain Scotch whiskey should be produced in one distillery and only in Scotland, where it gets the name "Scotch". It is from this type of whiskey that various blends are made.

3. Blended Scotch Whiskey

This type of Scotch whiskey is made from at least one or more single malt whiskeys to be blended with one or more grain Scotch whiskeys from different distilleries.

4. Malt blended Scotch whiskey

Malt blended Scotch whiskey is actually one of the most unusual whiskeys to be found today. Basically, it is a blended whiskey made from several single malt Scotch whiskeys that are produced in different distilleries. Previously, this whiskey was called "Pure Malt".

5. Grain blended Scotch whiskey

Grain blended Scotch whiskey is very similar to malt blended whiskey, except that it uses two or more grain Scotch whiskeys from different distilleries. Then all this is mixed and the product is obtained.

The myth of two-malt and three-malt whiskey

Surely, someone has heard of "two-malt" or "three-malt" whiskey. In fact, this is nothing more than a marketing ploy by the producers of single malt whiskey. Basically, the word "two-malt whiskey" means that the whiskey was settled in two different oak barrels.

While most consumers have a general idea that Scotch whiskey should always come from Scotland, few realize that in fact, the production of this drink is based on a regulatory act that regulates everything from the size of the bottle to the grinding process. malt.

The title "Scotch" is defined and governed by UK legislation called "The Scotch Whiskey Regulations 2009 No.2890" or SWR. The act regulates whiskey production technology, packaging, labeling, even advertising within the UK; the rest of the world is under SWR.

1. The whiskey must be produced in a distillery in Scotland from water and malt, to which only whole grains of other grains can be added. Moreover, the grains themselves in the production process must be:

• Processed and made into a homogeneous mass.
• Converted to fermentable substrate only by endogenous enzymes.
• Fermented with yeast only.
• The concentration of alcohol after distillation is not less than 94.8%.
• The whiskey must be “matured” in a regulated excise warehouse in Scotland in oak barrels with a capacity of no more than 700 liters for at least three years.

2. Scotch whiskey must retain the color, aroma and flavor of the raw materials from which it was made.
3. Scotch whiskey must not contain any substance other than water and E150A sugar color.
4. The minimum percentage of alcohol in the final product is 40%.

Whiskey production starts with water. It is for this reason that many distilleries are located near the pure spring. It used to be difficult to deliver clean water, so distilleries were abundantly built near water bodies.

Whiskey production, distillation

One of the features of Scotch whiskey is that the water in Scotland is very "soft" and contains few minerals. The western territories of Scotland, especially the islands, are characterized by water with a high content of peat. In swampy areas, water flows through peat bogs, which even have a brownish tint. There is no direct evidence that this particular water gives the whiskey a peaty flavor, but many distilleries protect their springs and take pride in them.

Legally, there is no reason to use barley grown exclusively in Scotland in the production. However, the vast majority of distilleries use local barley, probably for economic reasons.

After the water is prepared, it is poured into various vessels and tanks and malted barley is produced. The grains are soaked in water and left for several days in order for them to germinate. Then they are dried with hot air or peat smoke, which stops the growth of barley shoots and prevents them from rotting. Further, most distilleries grind malted barley, but there are still adherents of the traditional production method, which allows the barley to be used whole, without grinding.

Now that the malted barley is prepared, it is poured into a special kettle and water is poured. At a certain temperature, the mixture ferments and turns into a dark slurry called wort. Next comes the fermentation process. The wort is pumped into a wooden or stainless steel barrel. While stirring the wort, yeast is added to the barrels. Within 48 hours, carbon dioxide is released and the wort is converted into alcohol.

The next step is to distill the whiskey. In fact, the alcohol extraction technology does not differ from what was used even in our country for the production of moonshine. Only the volumes are different. After the first run, a liquid is obtained with an alcohol concentration of about 28%. The process is repeated until the proportion of alcohol is about 70%. Then the liquid is poured into oak barrels and allowed to infuse for at least 3 years. It is noteworthy that the barrels are not airtight, therefore, the whiskey will acquire a different smell from the location and storage of the barrels.

Scotland is divided into 5 distinct districts, where distilleries produce a variety of whiskeys, each with its own unique flavor.

The Highlands

The whiskey produced in this area is known for its medium strength. Today there are many distilleries that produce whiskey in the area, including: Aberfeldy, Balblair, Ben Nevis, Clynelish, The Dalmore, Dalwhinnie, Glen Ord, Glenmorangie, Oban and Old Pulteney. Distilleries are located on the islands: Arran, Jura, Tobermory, Highland Park and Scapa, as well as Talisker. While many whiskey connoisseurs believe the islands should have their own neighborhood, they are still part of The Highlands.

The Lowlands

Whiskey produced in this area is considered to be softer and more delicate. Very often local distilleries do without peat-drying the malt, hence the light taste. Today the following distilleries operate: Auchentoshan, Bladnoch, Glenkinchie and Daftmill. The last distillery should release its first batch of whiskey only in 2015, as it opened relatively recently.

Speyside

The most expensive and famous whiskey is produced in this area of ​​Scotland. Distilleries include Aberlour, The Balvenie, Cardhu, Cragganmore, Glenfarclas, Glenfiddich, Glenglassaugh, The Glenlivet, Glen Moray and The Macallan.

Campbeltown (Campbeltown)

As a rule, whiskey from this area is not under 10 years old. At the moment, active production is carried out by: Glen Scotia, Glengyle and Springbank.

Islay

Islay whiskey has the most pronounced taste and aroma. Due to the large amount of peat, the whiskey turns out to be of a dark caramel color with the taste of peat, iodine, algae and salt. Today, 8 distilleries are involved in production: Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Lagavulin and Laphroaig.

Nowadays, Scotch whiskey is drunk in various flavors, ranging from pure drinking to dozens of cocktails. However, connoisseurs of this drink do not accept mixing, for example, 15 year old whiskey with soda. Only in pure form or slightly diluted with water. If you are visiting a whiskey connoisseur, most likely, you will first be offered a drink in its pure form, secondly with water, thirdly with ice, and lastly whiskey and cola (the connoisseur may not offer the last cocktail).

What whiskey is drunk from

In bars, clubs and restaurants, you will be offered a transparent cylindrical glass with a thick bottom. Such a glass is called - rox. However, diehard whiskey aficionados or tasters choose tulip-shaped glasses. According to experts, such a glass allows you to appreciate all the notes of taste and smell of whiskey, concentrating the aroma.

Whiskey glasses

How to drink whiskey, the basics

The best way to drink whiskey is pure.Drink at room temperature (17-20 Celsius - ideal), allows you to enjoy the aroma and aftertaste of whiskey. However, most people prefer to chill their whiskey and add ice cubes to everything else. With each piece of ice, whiskey loses its uniqueness due to the dilution of water in it. In addition, the cold "closes" the whiskey aroma and you risk not catching the taste.

I would recommend putting no more than 2 ice cubes in a glass and not waiting for them to completely dissolve. Otherwise, you will not be able to tell whether it is diluted cognac or whiskey.

Recently, whiskey stones have become popular. Their principle is simple: you put stones in the refrigerator, they cool there and, if necessary, you add these chilled stones instead of ice cubes to a glass of whiskey. In my opinion, this is another marketing ploy that makes you spend extra money. They do nothing special, they only give a reason to brag about the presence of stones in a glass, nothing more.

Whiskey with stones

The classic use of whiskey is 50/50 diluted with pure water. Although some think that this is only to reduce the concentration of alcohol, nevertheless, the drink turns out to be aromatic and equally tasty.

True connoisseurs of whiskey, as well as professional tasters, recommend rinsing the glass with the same whiskey before starting. Those. You pour a small amount into a washed glass and whisk the whiskey so that all the sides of the vessel are washed with whiskey. Next, pour this whiskey into the sink. A clean glass of foreign odors is ready for drinking and will not allow other odors to interfere with enjoying the whiskey. You can consider this a waste of whiskey, but experts say that even the water with which they washed the glass has a smell and must be removed.

How to drink whiskey, process

Pour the whiskey into a clean glass. Rotate the glass with the drink so that it rolls along the walls without splashing over the edges. See how the leftover whiskey drips on the sides of the glass. The thicker and more oily whiskey you drink, the slower the residue will flow down the walls.

Now that you have looked at your whiskey, bring the glass to your nose and take a deep breath through your nose and mouth, smelling the drink as you exhale. Do not bring the glass too close, or the alcohol fumes can take your breath away.

How to drink whiskey, the tasting process

Repeat the operation several times: turn the whiskey -> bring it to the nose -> inhale the aroma. Each time, the taste and aroma of the whiskey will change. Try to feel all the shades and enjoy the bouquet of aromas.

Next, pour some cool still water into a glass and sip the drink. Try chatting whiskey in your mouth so that all receptors get a taste. This is how you will feel all its subtleties. Swallow the drink, take a breath and try to sip more of your whiskey from the glass.

Scotch whiskey is slowly gaining popularity in Russia and people are beginning to understand good alcohol. Of course, everyone has their own taste, however, you can give some recommendations for choosing a good whiskey, which has proven itself only from the best side in the old world.

Whiskey from The Highlands

• Highland Park is 12 years old.
• Scapa is 16 years old.
• Talisker is 18 years old.

Whiskey from The Lowlands

• Auchentoshan Three Wood.
• Glenkinchie is 12 years old.
• Rosebank is 12 years old.

Whiskey from the Speyside area

• The Macallan Fine Oak.
• The Macallan is 12 years old.
• The Macallan is 25 years old.
• Aberlour is 12 years old.
• Aberlour A'bunadh.
• The Balvenie Doublewood.

Islay whiskey

• Bowmore is 18 years old.
• Lagavulin is 16 years old.
• Caol Ila Moch.
• Laphroaig is 12 years old.

Scotch whiskey has always been and most likely will not be a drink for everyone. Someone adores it and prefers to drink it in a cozy home environment, savoring every sip. Someone hates whiskey and prefers something else. In any case, the taste and color of a friend is not.

For those who just want to start tasting such a noble drink as Scotch whiskey, we recommend starting with milder varieties such as Auchentoshan 12 years old or the Dalwhinnie 15 years old.You shouldn't rate whiskeys starting with White Horse or Grant's, as there is more alcohol than taste.

And one more little piece of advice for those people who like to collect guests. Store expensive and less expensive whiskey separately. At the moment when people ask you to try first one, then another, without understanding whiskey, you risk ruining yourself with good alcohol, the value of which is not understood by everyone. Therefore, keep in the bar 1-2 bottles of average quality, for example, Jameson or Jack Daniel's, so that later you would not be so bitter to look at the drunk bottle of whiskey worth $ 300, which you loved to sip in the evenings. Treat those who understand good alcohol.

Thank you for your attention, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite alcoholic drink - Scotland whiskey. Good luck and may only the best whiskey be on your table.