If you do not live in Scotland, you probably drink blended scotch. Yes, a few knowledgeable drinkers appreciate single malts, single grains, and vatted scotch, but blended scotch is what most of us mortals prefer. Have the Best information about Aberfeldy 1991 – 28 Year Old – Single Cask Nation.
What exactly is blended scotch?
Blended scotch is a “marriage” of different malt and grain whiskies. Malt whiskies are heavier in body and flavor, whereas grain whiskies are much lighter. Blending is a master artist, and those who understand it are usually extremely knowledgeable and talented individuals in high demand in the scotch industry.
The master blender tastes the various whiskies and then recommends the exact proportions of malt and grain whiskies. The marriage occurs in a large tub with mechanical rotating paddles that blend the different whiskies. To further integrate the mix, compressed air is released from below. After good blending, the whisky is returned to casks for further maturation.
So, what’s the deal with the blending?
Scotch is a highly complex spirit. It retains much character and flavor because it is distilled at a lower proof. This, combined with the long maturing periods, distinguishes the products of each distillery in Scotland. Scotland has four major scotch-producing regions. Highlands, Campbeltown, Isles, and Lowlands. Each of them has a different effect. For example, Highlands malts have a lighter body and flavor and are less smoky.
Lowlands malts are less smoky and lighter in both ways. The malts from the Isles have a rich body with a smoky zing. Campbeltown malts are the most intense and have a distinct smoky flavor. The Lowlands produce the majority of grain whiskies. They are usually cheerful spirits. Even within these regions, there is a great deal of variation. Scotch has a wide range of flavors.
Now Single malts, single grains, and vatted whiskies are excellent alcoholic beverages. However, the average consumer prefers a balance of flavors and a guarantee of consistency in the spirit. In addition, scotch is a pricey drink. Finally, the consumer wants to know that he will get the same taste that he has grown to love time after time.
Blended whiskies come into play here. Blended whiskies combine the flavor of malt whiskies with the lightness of grain whiskies of varying ages to create a unique blend that hides the flaws of some whiskies while enhancing the flavors of others.
The Structure
Most blended whiskies, whether scotch or otherwise, have a higher grain content than malt. This is due to a combination of factors. To begin with, grain was initially much cheaper to produce than malt. Second, as we now know, the grain is lighter, so it appeals to a much broader audience today. This is due to the current dominance of white spirits. And they are typically lighter in the body than a full-bodied scotch malt.
The United States consumes one-third of all blended scotch produced. Thus, grain provides the necessary lightness to persuade the American palate. A typically blended whisky contains between 25 and 40% malt and the rest grain. Ballantine’s, J&B, and Whyte & Mackay all have high grain content, ranging from 70 to 80%.
On the other hand, Johnnie Walker and Teacher’s are two excellent blends with a high malt content ranging from 35 to 40%. As a result, the Indian Subcontinent is an ideal market for these brands.
Furthermore, blended scotch comprises over 25 malt whiskies and another 10-grain whisky. Whiskies from various regions and maturities are blended to create a one-of-a-kind blend that the manufacturer believes will appeal to his target audience.
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