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This week we are back to the topic of alcohol again, more specifically whisky. Did I mention I like whisky? I mentioned in a previous issue that I will revisit the topic of whisky regions in Scotland and explain it in more detail so here we are. Whisky is traditionally split into 5 geographical regions; they all have their distinct flavour profiles and characteristics. However, the borders of these regions are being increasingly muddled and I personally don’t believe there is a need for such strict categorisation anymore. Having said that, I do believe that it is an interesting point of knowledge and could serve as a gateway for people new to whisky.
Speyside - Whisky, whisky and more whisky.
This region is named as such due to it being situated along River Spey to the east of Inverness. This region has the highest density of whisky distilleries in the world with over 60 distilleries. Flavour Profile: Whisky made here tends not to have a strong peat flavour and is easy drinking with sweet, fruity flavours reminiscent of dried fruit. Notable Whiskies: Macallan, The Glenfiddich, Glenlivet
Highlands - Rolling hills and picturesque countryside.
Highlands whisky is extremely diverse due to its large area. It stretches from the north of Glasgow all the way up to north of Scotland. It also spans coast to coast from Aberdeen in the east to Oban in the west. Flavour Profile: Whisky made here is extremely diverse and often takes on characteristics of the closest adjacent region. A bit of this and that. Notable Whiskies: Glenmorangie, Dalmore, Deanston
Lowland - Gentle and subtle.
The lowland region spans from the border to England right up to Edinburgh and the south of Glasgow. This part of Scotland is relatively flat and the whisky made here reflects that as well. Flavour Profile: Whisky made here have light grassy notes with sweet florally influences like honey, toffee, and cinnamon. Notable Whiskies: Auchentoshan, Glenkinchie, Lindores Abbey
Islay - Fiery and intense.
This region consists of only one small island. Pronounced eye-luh, this region is home to strong, intense whiskies which carries heavy peat and smoke. Flavour Profile: Intense peat and smoke coupled with salinity and meaty flavours from the coastal influence. They pack a punch and can sometimes carry medicinal notes. Notable Whiskies: Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Bruichladdich
Campbeltown - A fall from grace.
The smallest region, Campbeltown is located at the southern tip of the Kintyre peninsula in between Arran and Northern Ireland. Once the whisky capital of the world with easy access to the Atlantic, this region now is only home to 3 distilleries. Flavour Profile: Whisky made here is a cross between the fiery Islay whiskies and the rich fruity notes found in Highlands and Speyside whisky. It also carries a more pungent and intense flavour. Notable Whiskies: Springbank, Glen Scotia
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