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Dylan de Jonge


Few spirits have captured the hearts and palates of spirits enthusiasts quite like whisky, a sophisticated elixir born from the perfect blend of time-honored tradition, premium ingredients, and meticulous craftsmanship. Distilled in Scotland and Ireland since at least the 15th century, single malt is now also produced in more than two dozen other countries, even including the likes of Brazil, Lebanon, Pakistan, South Africa, and Taiwan. Whisky is also widely available online, and you´ll see that there are many different types, but one of the most popular and revered varieties is single malt which connoisseurs consider to be the pinnacle of the spirit, as it is crafted using only the most superior ingredients and traditional techniques, typically in small batches. And due to its higher quality and more limited production, it is generally more expensive than blended whiskies.

How Is Single Malt Whiskey Made?

According to Scottish whisky regulations, the term ¨single malt¨ is a specific type of whisky distilled at a single distillery.using only malted barley, yeast, and water. First the barley is mashed, then fermented to create a liquid known as wort, which is then in turn distilled in pot stills to produce a more concentrated liquid called wash, with a higher alcohol content. The distillation process involves heating the wash in a still to produce steam, which is then condensed back into a liquid. The newly distilled liquid, often referred to as the new-make spirit, is then carefully matured in an oak barrel for at least three years - and often for much longer, up to 18 - allowing its unique flavor and aroma to develop. The oak barrels used for aging single malt whiskey are often made of American white oak or European oak, which impart different flavors and characteristics to the whiskey.

And let´s have a wee peek at five of the most outstanding single malt Scotches (meaning from Scotland) you can buy online.

Macallan 18 Year Double Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The Macallan is a well-known and highly respected brand of single malt whiskey, from a distillery in the northeastern Speyside region (which boasts the greatest concentration of distilleries anywhere in Scotland) licensed for 200 years now. Its 18-year-old expression is a rich and complex whiskey with notes of dried fruit, spice, and oak.

Lagavulin 16-Year Single Malt Scotch

Crafted by the eponymous, 207-year-old distillery on the Isle of Islay single malt whiskey known for its smoky and peaty flavor. This 16-year-old expression is bold and intense, with notes of smoke, peat, and seaweed.

Glenmorangie 14-Year 'Quinta Ruban'

Founded in 1843, this Highlands distillery is known for its innovative approach, and this unique expression is made using a unique combination of aged whisky. It has a rich and chocolatey flavor with notes of coffee and spice.

The Dalmore 14-Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Also in the Highlands, this distinguished distillery has been producing single malts since 1839. Its 14-year expression is aged in American oak barrels before being finished in sherry casks for a minimum of three years, giving it a rich and complex flavor profile.

Talisker Distillers Edition Amoroso Cask Single-Malt Scotch Whisky

Founded in 1830, this distillery out on the Isle of Skye in the Hebrides is known for producing rich and peaty single malt whiskies, and this special expression is aged in American oak barrels before being finished in casks which previously held amoroso sherry.

 
If you're interested in further exploring the world of single malts and buying whisky online, we invite you to check out our Bottle Barn online store and browse our selection of premium bottles from some of the world's top distilleries. And if you happen to be in California, we'd love to see you at our liquor store in Santa Rosa, where our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect bottle to suit your tastes.

Finally, don't forget to our blog, where we regularly share articles and resources for whiskey enthusiasts of all levels. We're here to help you discover and savor the many pleasures of this timeless spirit.

Cheers!