‘Scotch’ in Scotland

‘Scotch’ in Scotland

When you first start exploring whisky, it can be confusing: there are lots of styles, countries, and flavour profiles. One word you’ll hear constantly at tastings is “Scotch” -but what is Scotch?

Scotch whisky is whisky that is made in Scotland and protected by law. To be labelled “Scotch whisky”, it must meet key legal requirements, these are:

• it is produced and matured in Scotland, using only cereals, water, and yeast

• it is bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV

• it is matured in oak casks for at least three years

• no flavourings may be added¹

• 
  

Some people even say “three years and a day” -just to be extra sure!

After fermentation and distillation Scotch is then matured in Oak casks. 

There are five types of Scotch Whisky’s:

• Single Malt Scotch Whisky – made at a single distillery from 100% malted barley, distilled in copper pot stills

• Blended Malt Scotch Whisky – a blend of single malts from more than one distillery

• Single Grain Scotch Whisky – made at a single distillery using malted barley plus other grains (malted or unmated)

• Blended Grain Scotch Whisky – a blend of single grain Scotch whiskies from more than one distillery

• Blended Scotch Whisky – a blend of at least one single malt and at least one single grain Scotch whisky (and the largest category by global sales)¹

Scotland’s Scotch history is rich, with references to whisky-making going back to the 1400s. It’s no surprise Scotch remains one of Scotland’s most famous exports -enjoyed worldwide. ¹(and, of course, in Scotland and Devon!)

Want to learn more or try some Scotch Whisky at a local tasting? Check out: https://www.devondrams.com/events for more information!

Source:

1.Scotland.org. “Whisky.” Scotland.org. Available at: https://www.scotland.org/about-scotland/food-and-drink/whisky (Accessed: 12 April 2026).