The Guide: Scotch
Scotch is the world’s most popular noble spirit. According to the Scotch Whisky Association, it is enjoyed in more than 200 countries. More than 2,500 brands are sold globally, many to private clubs or individuals. Fundamentally, Scotch is a distillate, made from elements of grains, water, and yeast. Scotch is a whiskey (spelled “whisky” in Scotland), but for a whisky to be labeled Scotch, it must be produced solely in Scotland. The country has internationally protected the label “Scotch,” registering it with the European Union and the World Trade Organization.
No one knows exactly when the first Scotch was produced, but distilling was practiced by the ancient Celts. The earliest documented record of Scottish distilling is found in the Exchequer (tax) Rolls for 1494, in an entry listing “Eight bolls of malt to Friar John Cor wherewith to make aqua vitae,” or water of life, as Scotch was called. Distilled largely in monasteries until they were closed in the 15th century, Scotch continued to gain popularity. Taxation by Parliament in the 17th century drove much production underground, but Scotch whisky reemerged after licensing was adopted in 1823.
» 200
The number of countries where scotch is enjoyed
» AD 500
First recorded distilling practiced by the Celts
» $4 Billion
Annual revenues from Scotch exports
Categories of Scotch
Single-malt Scotch is distilled at a single distillery from water and malted barley without the addition of other grains. Single-malts are distinguished by region. Scotland has four principal distilling regions — Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, and Lowland.
Blended Scotch is just that, a blend of up to 50 single-malt and grain Scotches from various producers. Many purists prefer single-malt, but it’s all in the nose and taste buds of the drinker.
Where to Drink
» Scotland Obviously, Scotland is a good place to start. Visit Dewar’s World of Whisky in Perthshire, a 90-minute drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow.
» London Try the Back Bar in Boisdale (pictured left), which has 170 Scotches on hand as well as other whiskies. The bar also has good jazz.
» Tokyo Why not take your Scotch at Casba, a groovy haunt in Shibuya that draws fashion elites like Rei Kawakubo and Marc Jacobs (if they’ll let you in, that is).
» New York Drink your Scotch “speakeasy” style, from a teacup, at Onieal’s Grand Street (174 Grand St.) or Fanelli Cafe in Soho (94 Prince St.).
Enjoying Scotch
There is no right or wrong way to drink Scotch. That said, here are some suggestions:
» Take it straight. Some enthusiasts insist on taking it straight, or “neat,” to get the full flavor.
» With a bit of water. Some say a bit of water enhances aroma and flavor. (Soft, nonchlorinated spring water is recommended.)
» Add ice. Some say this will dull taste and smell, though many find it the most refreshing way to enjoy the beverage.
» In a tulip-shaped glass. This is considered best for preserving aroma and flavor.
» Savor. Take the time to savor Scotch as you would wine.
Color Coded
A Scotch’s color generally indicates the kind of casks used to mature it and hints at the flavor. Lighter colors suggest ex-bourbon and softer vanilla flavors. Darker hues suggest spiciness, fruit tinges, and sherry tones. It should be noted that whiskies tend to darken over a long period of maturation.
What to Drink
Your choices are almost endless, though connoisseurs tend to prefer older single-malts. In 2005, England-based Whisky Magazine named Laphroaig 10 Year Old ($64), from the Islay region, as the best single-malt.
