Blended scotch whisky has been a fixture in the whisky market since its inception. Some of the biggest whisky brands in the world, such as Johnnie Walker produce blended scotch whisky. However, in a world that is increasingly enamored with vintage, age-statement, single malt scotch, blended whisky is sometimes left out of the limelight.
Despite the growth and premiumization of the scotch whisky market, blended scotch whisky still plays a huge role in scotch whisky exports and is still the drink of choice for many whisky lovers. Today, I will highlight some of the most frequently asked questions about blended scotch whisky and invite you to add your voice to the debate. Which is better? Single malt or blended scotch?
What Is The Difference Between Blended & Single Malt Scotch Whisky?
Before we delve into the questions and everlasting debate, let’s settle the differences between single malt scotch and blended scotch whisky.
The ‘single’ category of scotch whisky is divided into two parts: single malt and single grain. Single malt scotch whisky is a spirit distilled from 100% malted barley that hails from a single distillery.
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Contrary to popular belief, single grain scotch whisky does not need to be distilled from a mash bill containing just one grain i.e. wheat. The ‘single’ refers to the fact that the spirit comes from a single distillery. As such, single grain scotch can contain a variety of cereals and grains.
The ‘blended’ category of scotch whisky is, rather confusingly, divided into three parts: blended grain scotch whisky, blended malt scotch whisky, and blended scotch whisky.
Blended grain scotch whisky is a blend of various single grain scotch whiskies that hail from more than one distillery. Blended malt scotch whisky is a blend of single malt scotch whiskies that hail from more than one distillery.
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Blended scotch whisky, perhaps the one we are all the most familiar with, is a blend of one or more single malt scotch whiskies with one or more single grain scotch whiskies.
Is Single Malt Scotch Better Than Blended Scotch Whisky?
This is a far more difficult question to answer than the first one, as it is completely subjective and depends on your preferences.
Suffice it to say that blended scotch whisky (according to the SWA) accounts for 75% of scotch whisky’s total export volume each year. It is extremely popular. However, it is also generally cheaper than single malt scotch.
The way that the scotch whisky market has evolved in recent years has meant that single malt scotch has become a luxury asset. Many people now choose to invest in whisky rather than drink it. Single malt scotch whisky is at the forefront of this. The market has exploded and prices have skyrocketed. We are currently experiencing a market dip, but the fact remains: single malt scotch whisky is more expensive, rarer, and considered more luxurious than blended whisky.
However, the explosion in price is not necessarily to do with the quality of the single malt scotch. The biggest factor in driving the value of a single malt is actually the branding and marketing. I will not go into all of this now (this would be a very long article). But, if you are interested in learning more, let me know in the comments and perhaps I address this in the future.
So, if the price of a single malt whisky does not necessarily denote quality, then what separates the two in terms of their drinkability? Like I said, personal preference. Some find blended whisky more approachable and single malts more complex. Others find blended whisky too complex and single malts easier to navigate. Basically, there is no right answer.
What Is The Purpose Of Blending Whisky?
For me, the practice of blending scotch comes down to three things: cost, flavor, and freedom.
Firstly, blending and bottling a single malt is, in general, much cheaper than producing a single malt. This is because grain whisky has a much lower production cost than single malt whisky. As such, the addition of grain whisky in the blend can lower the cost of purchasing casks for blending.
In addition to this, most blended whisky brands do not tie themselves down to an age statement, meaning that younger whisky can be used in the blend, making the enterprise more cost-effective. Blended whisky can also be produced in higher volumes than single malts can.
Now, let’s talk about flavor. Blending is described by Dewar’s Master Blender, Stephanie Macleod, as being similar to conducting an orchestra. When blending a new whisky there are endless opportunities for experimentation, and some of the combinations might not work together. However, when the right balance is achieved, the whisky sings in perfect harmony.
The various malts and grains added to a blend work seamlessly together to provide depth of flavor and a smooth drinking experience, without the need for long-term aging. (Although, there are many high-age statement blended scotch whiskies on the market.)
Once the right blend is achieved, it is much easier to replicate over a range of products and therefore encourage consumer confidence and recognition for the brand.
What Is The Best Blended Scotch Whisky?
We come back now to a question that is largely subjective. Of course, I cannot speak for everyone’s personal tastes when answering this. So, I will rely on the one metric that I do have, and that is awards.
The world’s most-awarded blended scotch whisky is Dewar’s. With over 1,000 accolades under its belt, Dewar’s has consistently produced high-quality blends from the classic Dewar’s White Label to the high-age Double Double 36 Year Old.
Master Blender, Stephanie Macleod, is also a six-time recipient of the ‘Master Blender of the Year’ award from the International Whisky Competition.
With that being said, Johnnie Walker could also reasonably lay claim to the ‘most-awarded’ title, having received numerous accolades over its long history. In today’s market though, Dewar’s is sweeping the board when it comes to awards.
There is certainly no shortage of blended scotch whisky brands to choose from. From Johnnie Walker to Chivas Regal, Famous Grouse to Ballantine’s, there is something for everyone.
How Is The Whisky Best Enjoyed?
Blended whisky is beloved for its versatility. If you prefer a neat pour, then go ahead! Blended scotch can also be great for use in cocktails. Whilst many whisky lovers would despair at the concept of using an expensive single malt in a cocktail, blends offer an affordable alternative.
One of the most beloved and classic whisky cocktails is the Whisky Highball. Simply, it is a dram of whisky topped up with soda water, and ice, and topped with lime. You can also use sparkling water or seltzer.
Margarett Waterbury tested seven different types of sodas in a whisky highball. Find out which one she prefers here.
Which Do You Prefer?
So, with the questions answered, I am interested to know which you prefer: blended or single malt scotch whisky? Do you have a preference at all? Are you more well-versed with one than another? Get in the comments and let us know.
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