Scotch Whiskey

Question 1

What was the original purpose of Scotch whiskey?

Answer 1

Whiskey, or “uisge beatha” (water of life), was taken for medicinal purposes and prescribed for the prolongation of life, relief for colic, palsy, and small pox.

Question 2

Which law drove Scottish distillers underground in the 18th century due to the increase in taxes?

Answer 2

Act of Union

Question 3

What are the 5 geographical indications of Scotch?

Answer 3

Highlands
Lowlands
Speyside
Islay
Campbeltown

Question 4

What production features define Scotch Whiskey?

Answer 4

1. Must be produced from a mixture of water, malted barley, and other whole cereal grains.
2. Must be aged in oak casks in Scotland at a licensee’s excise warehouse for a minimum of 3 years.
3. Oak casks must have a maximum capacity of 185 gallons/700 liters.
4. Fermentation and distillation must occur at the same location in Scotland.

Question 5

What is a common misconception about the use of peat in Scotch?

Answer 5

That all have a heavy peat flavor. Most only have a mild “peat reek” influence. Some have no peat at all.