Hi there, fans of whisky! You probably like whisky if you’re reading this. However, choosing between blended and single malt whiskies may be challenging. Do you prefer smooth and consistent blended whisky or strong and rich single malt whisky?
Trying to explore Scotch may seem like going across centuries of history like a confused person in a haunted castle. Scotch needn’t be frightening. There are a few more questions to answer beyond Scotch geography (knowing what taste characteristics originate from each Scotch-producing region). Whether to go for Blended or single malt.
Choosing between blended and single malt whisky is tricky, but this blog post can help you decide whether you should have a glass of Glenfiddich or something else.
About single malt whisky:
Only malted barley, water, and yeast make single malt whisky. It is produced using a pot still at a single distillery. It spends at least three years in wood barrels. It has rich and subtle tastes due to variables, including the cask type, maturation time, and distillery location.
What’s blended whisky?
Mixing whiskies from multiple distilleries creates blended whisky. It may be prepared from single malt and grain whiskies. It usually ages for three years in wood barrels. Each batch of whisky is blended to ensure taste consistency. Blended whisky is smooth and consistent. This makes it a common cocktail ingredient and a softer taster.
Differences between single malt and blended whisky
Blended and single malt whiskies differ in flavour. Single malt whisky tastes different, whereas blended whisky is smooth. Single malt whisky is smoky, peaty, fruity, or spicy; blended whisky is smooth, sweet, or light. Who knew peated whisky was the smokiest?
Price is another major distinction between the whiskies. Due to its more complicated manufacture and lengthier ageing, single malt whisky costs more than blended whisky. Both varieties of whisky have numerous economical possibilities.
When choosing single malt or blended whisky, age counts. Blended whiskies may be younger, but single malt whisky must be aged three years. Longer-aged blended whiskies provide more complexity and taste.
Which is better?
The choice between single malt and blended whisky boils down to personal preference. For a rich, powerful taste, single malt whisky may be optimal. Blended whisky may be superior for a smoother, more consistent taste. Your taste preferences should guide your choice.
The occasion might also influence whisky selection. The more expensive single malt whisky is usually kept for special events. However, blended whisky is relished in informal situations or mixed into cocktails.
Budget is another factor when selecting single malt or blended whisky. Single malt whisky costs extra owing to its restricted manufacturing and higher-quality components. However, blended whisky uses whiskies from many distilleries, making it cheaper. Consider your budget before choosing.
Conclusion
Single malt and blended whiskies are popular spirits with different flavours. Its flavour is rich and complex, but blended whisky is smoother and lighter. Consider budget, occasion, and personal preference while making this option.
There is no right or incorrect answer; it depends on personal preferences. If you like the richness and depth of single malt or the smoothness and consistency of blended whisky, you may enjoy both individually.