The evolution of the whisky landscape
Dave Broom reflects on the shift in seasons, and maturation of the modern whisky drinker.
From the editors
18 April 2018
Dave Broom reflects on the shift in seasons, and maturation of the modern whisky drinker.
From the editors
12 April 2017
Dave Broom reminds us that Scotch is made to be enjoyed year-round, not just in winter.
From the editors
15 November 2017
Whisky has the power to transport us through time, but it’s a matter of chance, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
25 July 2018
Engaging with the world around you can help heighten your whisky experience, writes Dave Broom.
From the editors
04 May 2016
A sojourn on Islay prompts a further exploration of the topic of barley and its impact on whisky.
From the editors
15 March 2017
Flavour and efficiency are not enemies; embrace the evolution of barley, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
03 May 2017
A trip to San Francisco has Dave Broom pondering what lessons whisky can learn from rum.
From the editors
11 March 2016
Musings on mental retention, Bob Dylan’s Never-Ending Tour and the whisky festival circuit.
From the editors
24 April 2019
Carlsberg probably isn’t the world’s best, says Dave Broom, but can anything really be?
From the editors
09 December 2015
We should consider whisky in the same way Denis ‘The Madness’ McQuade approached football.
From the editors
09 May 2017
The momentum of progress embodies the story of human evolution, but is it a one-way street?
From the editors
28 June 2017
A centuries-old text reminds Dave Broom of the open-eyed joy that whisky once inspired.
From the editors
30 August 2017
There’s no problem categorising whisky flavour profiles, but have we been doing it the right way?
From the editors
03 January 2018
As the new year dawns, Dave Broom ponders the value of moving slowly – for people and whisky.
From the editors
25 April 2018
The curious tale of a manatee reminds Dave Broom of whisky’s power to conjure an epiphany.
From the editors
02 May 2018
In whisky as in art, says Dave Broom, we need to find space for our own interpretations.
From the editors
08 August 2018
Brands have a duty to teach the whole truth, not just their own version, says Becky Paskin.
From the editors
07 November 2017
Peated whisky brands could learn a lesson from hot sauce producers, says Becky Paskin.
From the editors
04 September 2019
Scotland’s native oak must be nurtured if it’s to be used for whisky-making, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
23 December 2015
Be selective about your whisky-drinking moments for optimum cheer, and have a very Merry Christmas.
From the editors
17 April 2019
More attention needs paying to the provenance of Sherry casks, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
05 April 2017
And, according to Richard Woodard, most single malts shouldn’t even try.
From the editors
11 September 2019
It’s the same premise as a gin and tonic, so why the resistance to Highballs, asks Dave Broom?
From the editors
03 March 2016
Do recent shipment declines signal the end of Scotch whisky’s long-running export success story?
From the editors
27 January 2016
While mostly ignored by malt aficionados, whisky regions are still important indicators of flavour.
From the editors
15 July 2015
How Marxist theory could teach the Scotch whisky industry a lesson on the perils of leadership.
From the editors
24 October 2018
Attempts to ‘simplify’ Scotch whisky are only complicating it further, says Becky Paskin.
From the editors
06 November 2015
The tyranny of figures – and a further explanation of the scoring system used for our tasting notes.
From the editors
14 January 2016
If Scotch whisky could make a New Year resolution for 2016, what should it be? A few thoughts…
From the editors
23 May 2016
An innovative Irish whiskey project opens up a new world of traceability and flavour profiles.
From the editors
17 August 2016
Dave Broom ponders the relationship between Sherry and Scotch whisky in sunny Spain.
From the editors
29 November 2016
Don’t call last orders just yet, says Dave Broom, for there’s hope to be found in music and whisky.
From the editors
02 February 2017
Dave Broom deliberates the symbolic meaning behind gifting a quaich to the new US President.
From the editors
20 September 2017
The opening of the Isle of Raasay distillery reminds Dave Broom of the importance of community.
From the editors
13 December 2017
As extraordinary whiskies become the preserve of a privileged few, how about spreading the love?
From the editors
10 April 2019
Dave Broom is impartial to chocolate eggs, but there are other ways to enjoy Easter.
From the editors
14 August 2019
A recent Instagram post has Dave Broom redefining the success of distillery innovations.
From the editors
17 October 2017
With Port Ellen, Brora and Rosebank set to reopen, Dave Broom looks at the broader context.
From the editors
14 August 2015
If age is only a number, no age whisky is a can of worms. Dave Broom reaches for the tin opener.
From the editors
31 January 2018
Diageo’s Harry Potter-esque innovations aren’t all that far-fetched, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
06 February 2019
In a world awash with whisky, warns Dave Broom, there’s no place for lazy innovation.
From the editors
20 March 2019
Restaurant critic Jay Rayner gives Dave Broom food for thought on whisky writing.
From the editors
31 July 2015
To many whisky lovers, a silent distillery is a lost treasure. But is that the whole story?
From the editors
29 October 2015
At a time when consumers clamour for more information about whisky, why does the law forbid it?
From the editors
28 April 2016
The spring chill at the start of this year’s festival can’t mask the gathering’s huge warmth.
From the editors
01 June 2016
There’s no excuse for a poorly made cocktail if it costs the earth.
From the editors
19 December 2016
Could gin soon be more popular than Scotch in the UK? Let’s all calm down, says Richard Woodard.
From the editors
19 January 2017
The UK Foreign Secretary’s working knowledge of whisky is patchy, to judge from a speech this week.
From the editors
08 July 2015
The mysterious story – and equally mysterious whisky – of one Corporal Mill.
From the editors
25 September 2015
Innovation is rife around the whisky world, from Midleton to Hakushu. Where does that leave Scotch?
From the editors
18 December 2015
Two great figures of Port and Scotch whisky, connected by their personal prejudices.
From the editors
04 January 2016
Scotch whisky, much like the traditional tobacconist, needs to evolve to appeal to a new audience.
From the editors
06 April 2016
Bagpiper, McDowell’s and the SWA acting as ‘cultural shock troops’. Where will it all end?
From the editors
30 April 2016
Car park tastings, a bat cave, the shadowy hand of the whisky maker and the weird ways of wood.
From the editors
31 May 2016
Looking back at this year’s sun-filled festival – the good, the bad and the downright odd.
From the editors
14 June 2016
Do you think the regulations governing Scotch whisky are too tough? Be careful what you wish for…
From the editors
15 February 2017
Dave Broom is inspired by the common dedication and passion shown at the first World Whisky Forum.
From the editors
05 July 2017
Dave Broom discusses changes to the way we score the whiskies we taste – and why words matter more.
From the editors
16 August 2017
Dave Broom wonders why whisky doesn’t embrace the floral flavours found in ancient Scottish spirit.
From the editors
27 September 2017
Whisky shows are no longer the sole preserve of Scotch – or indeed whisky – finds Dave Broom.
From the editors
22 November 2017
Originality needn’t depend on ripping up the rulebook, according to Richard Woodard.
From the editors
20 December 2017
Has there ever been a more exciting time for whisky? Probably not, says Richard Woodard.
From the editors
14 March 2018
Dave Broom finds much to celebrate in the diverse whiskies of Australia and New Zealand.
From the editors
29 May 2019
If Scotch wants to keep its top perch, it must change with the times, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
31 July 2019
A whisky bar’s history reflects the shifting stereotype of its drinkers, says Dave Broom.
From the editors
18 September 2019
A discriminatory Dutch nightclub reminds Becky Paskin why whisky must be more inclusive.
From the editors
29 April 2016
Archives and a liquid Speyside ramble illustrate how the past persists and informs the present.
From the editors
13 September 2017
Dave Broom discovers shifting sands in the culture of perfume making and asks what whisky can learn.
From the editors
05 June 2019
Fèis Ìle 2019 reminded Dave Broom that ‘whisky island’ is always changing.
In depth
31 July 2017
As Diageo’s whisky sales rebound, we identify six factors shaping the resurgence.
In depth
10 August 2016
The end of Diageo’s educational programme signals a major change in philosophy for the company.
In depth
01 February 2016
Getting under the skin of Russia’s vast and potentially lethal black market in counterfeit spirits.
In depth
11 June 2018
Soaring growth in whisky tourism is paving the way for a new generation of Scotch distillery.
In depth
06 October 2016
The new move by Chivas Regal says a lot about the current state of the Scotch whisky market.
In depth
10 July 2017
Once touted as Islay’s ninth whisky distillery, here’s the full story behind Gartbreck.
In depth
14 September 2017
Irish whiskey is resurgent, but are some of the new companies being economical with the truth?
In depth
13 December 2017
Distillers are coming up with ever more inventive ways of working with this tricky grain.
In depth
20 May 2019
After years of record-breaking increases, there are signs that the market may be softening.
In depth
11 October 2017
Now just an empty shell, the Falkirk distillery could be producing spirit within two years.
In depth
04 May 2016
Did the Jack Daniel’s owner overpay in spending £285m on BenRiach, GlenDronach and Glenglassaugh?
In depth
29 September 2016
No industry appetite for change, says John Glaser – but he still believes that change will come.
In depth
07 December 2016
As more consumers turn their backs on whisky, distillers are trying a number of fresh ideas.
In depth
20 February 2017
Scotch whisky exports bounced back last year, thanks largely to single malt and the US market.
In depth
26 May 2016
Assessing the pros and cons of being part of the European Union for the Scotch whisky industry.
In depth
18 July 2017
The challenges of building a £100m new distillery, by the man who came up with the idea.
In depth
18 July 2019
Incidents like the recent Jim Beam warehouse fire can have a huge environmental impact.
In depth
09 October 2017
We delve further into the plans to revive the two cult distilleries after nearly 40 years.
In depth
04 May 2017
What does the striking new look and range rethink say about the modern face of single malt?
In depth
19 June 2019
The range of casks that can be used to age Scotch is now wider – but the rules remain tight.
In depth
05 July 2018
A behind-the-scenes look at the revamp of the world’s third most popular Scotch whisky.
In depth
26 September 2019
The inside story of the US$150m distillery, and the remarkable landscape it calls home.
In depth
31 December 2015
Scotchwhisky.com may only have been in operation for three months, but what a year it’s been.
In depth
13 November 2015
Diageo’s experimental Whiskey Union concept is fundamental to the group’s Scotch growth strategy.
In depth
17 November 2015
The murky waters of auctioning whisky labels is not only unclear, it’s unregulated too.
In depth
27 October 2015
Scotch is experiencing an identity crisis. Why would it want to taste like Bourbon?
Latest news
14 December 2017
The Orkney distillery’s latest expression is the first of two releases observing the seasons.
Latest news
25 March 2019
The 16-year-old single malt whisky has been part-matured in Rioja-seasoned wine casks.
Latest news
28 July 2017
Swimmers take to Islay’s waters to create a blended malt that will be sold for charity.
Latest news
15 January 2019
Eight single malts inspired by the fantasy series are now available for pre-order in Europe.
Latest news
13 December 2017
The Lowland distillery will bottle its first malt more than a decade after it was founded.
Latest news
31 July 2018
This second entry in the whisky’s Cask Series is a Sainsbury’s-only exclusive.
Latest news
15 September 2016
Gregg Glass will join Whyte & Mackay as blender and whisky maker, reporting to Richard Paterson.
Latest news
11 November 2016
Those investing in whisky are more likely to be satisfied than those investing in wine or watches.
Latest news
01 September 2016
Two new duty free exclusive whiskies will form part of the firm’s core travel retail range.
Latest news
27 January 2017
The money is being used to support the protection of the endangered grouse species across the UK.
Latest news
09 August 2018
The blended Scotch has signed a three-year sponsorship deal with the Premier League football team.
Latest news
09 May 2018
The blended Scotch has partnered with HBO to create a new Game of Thrones themed whisky.
Latest news
18 September 2019
The festive bottling from Douglas Laing is a cask-strength edition of the Islay blended malt.
Latest news
17 December 2018
The new releases include ‘spirit drink’ Stranger & Stranger and blended malt whisky Juveniles.
Latest news
04 October 2019
The Orkney distillery will re-release the age statement for the first time in 10 years.
Latest news
10 May 2018
The 17-year-old single malt, aged in American oak, marks the coming of spring and summer.
Latest news
07 August 2018
The distillery’s owners will use funds from the campaign to move production to a new, larger site.
Latest news
11 January 2018
The brand’s experimental Blenders’ Batch Sherry Cask Finish debuts as a travel retail exclusive.
Latest news
08 August 2019
The Speyside distillery has revealed a duo of ‘incredibly sweet’ wine-finished Taiwan exclusives.
Latest news
07 September 2019
The English distillery has unveiled the first of its Whiskymaker’s Reserve expressions.
Latest news
16 January 2018
The Highland distillery has unveiled new releases of two vintage single malts.
Latest news
10 August 2018
The 2018 collection features malts from Bunnahabhain, Deanston, Tobermory and Ledaig.
Latest news
12 October 2018
The first whisky in Macallan’s new duty free series is an exercise in ‘unconventional maturation’.
Latest news
19 June 2019
The ‘highly limited’ distillery-exclusive bottling has been finished in a Pedro Ximénez Sherry butt.
Latest news
30 September 2019
The former owner’s legacy will be remembered with 15 new single malts presented as chapters.
Latest news
10 June 2019
The Fife distillery has become the ‘first’ in over a century to use oats to make Scotch whisky.
Latest news
13 October 2017
The new range, exclusive to travel retail, includes four NAS single malt whiskies.
Latest news
24 May 2018
The Lagavulin manager will leave her post to bring the cult Islay malt back into production.
Latest news
04 May 2016
The Scottish international scrum-half is to set up a Scotch-focused retail business in the US.
Latest news
01 October 2018
The Game of Thrones-themed blended whisky will be available globally from this month.
Latest news
03 December 2018
The whisky was made to mark the anniversary of Manchester United’s 1968 European Cup win.
Latest news
25 July 2019
A Kentucky Straight Bourbon inspired by the hit zombie apocalypse series is coming this autumn.
Latest news
02 September 2019
Scientists have discovered a barley gene which could help future-proof barley against drought.
Latest news
02 November 2016
New 15-year-old limited release has been matured exclusively in refill Port casks.
Latest news
21 March 2017
The vintage relaunch comes six years after the 1995 bottling was initially released.
Latest news
19 December 2017
The US$9,000 single malt is billed as the ‘pinnacle’ of the distillery’s Sherry Oak range.
Latest news
07 September 2018
The distillery’s new core range will feature age statements, rather than vintages.
Latest news
01 October 2018
Chivas Regal’s oldest release to date celebrates the team’s 1968 European Cup victory.
Latest news
07 August 2017
The distillery’s ‘designer cask’ expression is back on the market with a limited release.
Latest news
03 December 2015
Lagavulin and actor Nick Offerman have produced a comedic Scotch tribute to the Yule Log broadcast.
Latest news
23 November 2018
The Whisky Exchange has bottled a ‘fantastic value’ 18-year-old Orkney malt for Black Friday.
Latest news
31 January 2017
From the Scots Gaelic for ‘baked’, the single malt was extra-matured in Madeira wine casks.
Latest news
27 March 2018
The £25,000 Speyside single malt whisky will be limited to only 200 bottles worldwide.
Latest news
08 March 2018
This year’s limited edition Islay single malt recalls the ‘Summer of Love’ of the 1960s.
Latest news
09 May 2018
The Speyside distillery is launching a 10-year-old triple-distilled single malt whisky.
Latest news
02 October 2019
A blended Scotch has been created in honour of the English football club and its former manager.
Latest news
17 September 2015
Counterfeit bottle caps case represents a number of legal firsts, the organisation says.
Latest news
22 March 2016
Isle of Arran Distillers has confirmed plans to build a second distillery on the Scottish island.
Latest news
13 June 2019
Highland Park: Ness of Brodgar’s Legacy will raise funds for a dig at the Neolithic site.
Latest news
05 November 2015
The organisation writes to clarify the current legal position – and what might happen in the future.
Latest news
27 April 2017
The range redesign comes as the Orkney single malt launches a new series of special editions.
Latest news
30 August 2017
The Orkney distillery is releasing a ‘smokier, richer’ version of Highland Park next month.
Latest news
03 October 2019
The United States is enforcing a 25% import tariff on single malt Scotch whisky imports.
Latest news
20 June 2016
Remaining in the European Union will be better for the Scotch whisky industry, says Ivan Menezes.
Latest news
13 December 2018
The single malt has been matured in a single European oak ex-Sherry cask.
Latest news
31 May 2019
Macallan’s latest release contains whisky distilled from barley grown on its estate.
Latest news
27 April 2016
Brown-Forman has purchased The Benriach Distillery Company for £285 million.
Latest news
01 October 2015
After years of decline the SWA has predicted Scotch exports will improve within the year.
Latest news
18 August 2017
A Swedish study has now provided a scientific basis for this long-held belief.
Latest news
07 October 2019
Macallan’s whisky maker used his love of DJing house music to create the single malt.
Latest news
09 March 2016
The founders of London’s Worship Street Whistling Shop are opening a dedicated whisky bar this week.
Latest news
23 November 2015
A third company has joined the race to build the Scottish Borders’ first distillery since 1837.
Latest news
26 April 2018
The Elements of Islay producer intends to build a whisky distillery on the island’s south coast.
Latest news
21 June 2019
Macallan has opened the first of several new prestige whisky shops in Dubai airport.
Latest news
28 April 2016
Scotchwhisky.com’s chief engineer has been recognised for his contribution to the whisky region.
Latest news
15 April 2016
The independent bottler has introduced age statements in a step ‘toward greater transparency’.
Latest news
15 August 2018
Fans camped overnight outside the distillery in the hope of nabbing a limited edition bottle.
Latest news
05 September 2017
The withdrawal of The Glenlivet expression shocked whisky fans, but plans are afoot for its return.
Latest news
15 November 2018
The MMA fighter’s Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey has had an ‘incredible reaction’.
Features
24 June 2019
Drink better during this season’s music festivals with these campsite-friendly novelty hip flasks.
Cocktails
26 October 2016
As the temperature drops and the wind blows, whisky shines in a range of seasonal drinks recipes.
Cocktails
06 April 2016
The last of our spring-themed features – and an indispensable guide to seasonal whisky mixing.
Cocktails
15 October 2015
Scotch has the fruit, oak and smoke to create the perfect seasonal serves for this time of year.
Culture
11 April 2019
Whisky and fashion collaborations are in season, but are these partnerships more than marketing?
Food
12 October 2017
A seasonal foray through all manner of apple-accented dishes – with a dram on the side.
Ask the professor
04 January 2017
Unpicking the political and historical reasons for Scotch’s minimum alcoholic strength.
Culture
30 October 2018
Dial up the scream factor for your Halloween movie night with these spooktacular whisky pairings.
Culture
29 June 2016
A new adaptation of Whisky Galore! deserves the iconic status of the original, says Charles MacLean.
Culture
22 November 2018
America’s biggest Bourbon families reveal how whisky plays a role in their Thanksgiving traditions.
Culture
10 January 2017
Many a dram has made an appearance on the silver screen – some authentic, others imagined.
Food
26 April 2017
The key to cooking a tender and juicy leg of lamb is simplicity, says Martine Nouet.
Cocktails
10 December 2018
Liven up the party or warm up by the fire with one of these Christmas cocktail recipes.
Culture
12 March 2019
Whisky has taken to the driver’s seat in the development of Formula One and Nascar racing.
Cocktails
11 December 2015
An appetising array of blood-warming, fortifying cocktails designed to keep out the winter chills.
Cocktails
10 July 2015
The timeless whisky and soda receives a 21st century makeover to make its flavours shine.
Cocktails
20 July 2016
Ryan Chetiyawardana serves up a tempting selection of cocktails suited to warmer days and nights.
Cocktails
09 July 2019
Drinkers don’t have to compromise on flavour with these low-abv, summery Scotch serves.
Food
05 April 2016
In food terms, spring offers invigorating, fragrant flavours as nature revives and revitalises.
Food
13 December 2018
From Islay to Utah, the fare offered at top whisky destinations is on the up and up.
Food
25 January 2017
Winter brings plenty of things to be excited about – especially when it comes to food and whisky.
Food
07 January 2016
Cold weather calls for hearty dishes – and a pinch of the right spice can make all the difference.
Culture
05 December 2016
As campaigners battle to keep Landseer’s painting in Scotland, we delve into its history.
Food
22 November 2016
Signe Johansen demonstrates how seaside cooking and drinking can be enjoyed all year round.
Food
17 April 2019
Which whisky will you choose to complement your chocolate indulgence this Easter?
Food
20 March 2017
Fiona Beckett visits Severn & Wye to learn about the art of farming, curing and smoking salmon.
Food
04 October 2016
Fiona Beckett caught up with Peter Hannan, award-winning butcher and meat supplier extraordinaire.
Food
08 September 2015
Salt: currency, source of conflict, pre-requisite for human life. And every cook’s best friend.
Food
09 March 2016
Not just for malt whisky: why the humble barley grain could be the next big thing in food circles.
Food
19 December 2017
Banish thoughts of dusty bowls of peanuts with our gourmet guide to the finest pairings.
Food
21 March 2018
We survey the UK restaurant scene to discover an array of pairings for vegan diners.
Food
19 October 2017
Leading British chefs and their sommeliers share their food and whisky matching secrets.
Food
07 October 2019
Scotland’s rivers are among the world’s best for catching salmon, a perfect match for whisky.
Food
15 August 2017
UK chefs and sommeliers are increasingly – and successfully – pairing whisky with their menus.
Food
11 December 2017
The UK’s Indian restaurants are pursuing ever more innovative food and whisky pairings.
Food
25 October 2016
Slow-cooked stews and fruity crumbles, made all the better by pairing with the perfect whisky.
Food
23 November 2016
Use our flavour-by-flavour guide to help Scotch find a place at the Thanksgiving table.
Food
17 August 2017
Whisky is an excellent, if not exactly obvious, partner to your summer salads.
Food
19 July 2016
Summer is all about cooking outdoors, from barbecues and picnics to terrace drinking and dining.
Food
30 November 2016
All the recipes and whisky advice you could possibly need to host your own St Andrew’s Day feast.
Food
12 October 2015
From Morels to Chanterelles, mushrooms offer a quintessentially autumnal touch to the table.
Food
17 July 2017
Making ice cream at home is fun – and the results can be greatly improved by adding whisky.
Cocktails
27 June 2016
Takayuki Suzuki talks to Dave Broom about the challenges of making cocktails with Scotch whisky.
Cocktails
24 July 2018
Beat the heat with these refreshing sunny-day serves recommended by top bartenders.
Cocktails
08 November 2017
Move over Bourbon; it’s time for Scotch whisky to take on the Old Fashioned.
Cocktails
02 October 2019
From Scotch blending sessions to funky Bourbon BBQ parties, LCW has it all.
Ask the professor
21 June 2016
A burnished copper pot still may have powerful visual appeal, but what are its practical advantages?
Ask the professor
18 January 2016
Analysing the vital – but often misunderstood – role that water plays in the making of whisky.
Ask the professor
01 July 2019
The Sherry-like cask seasoning agent was once commonly used by whisky distillers.
Ask the professor
30 July 2019
Does barley variety affect whisky flavour like grapes do with wine? The Prof has the answer.
Ask the professor
23 September 2015
Caramel in whisky: why is it there, what does it do and does it matter? The Whisky Prof on E150a.
Ask the professor
15 May 2017
Far from being an aesthetic afterthought, the shape and size of a still has a huge effect on whisky.
Ask the professor
07 March 2017
The Whisky Professor explains why the spelling of ‘whisky’ or ‘whiskey’ differs between countries.
Ask the professor
21 August 2018
The Whisky Prof explains one of the most complex and fascinating processes in whisky creation.
Ask the professor
29 November 2018
The Whisky Prof looks into the merits of this most traditional of whisky warehouses.
Ask the professor
05 June 2018
Just a pipe linking still with condenser? No, it’s much more complicated, says the Prof.
Ask the professor
19 October 2016
Sherry and Scotch is a complex topic, but the Whisky Professor is on hand to explain all.
Ask the professor
16 May 2016
The whisky industry is divided in its use of stainless steel and wooden washbacks. Which is best?
Ask the professor
17 July 2018
The Prof takes a break from science to consider the etymology of the lyne arm.
Ask the professor
25 April 2019
The term refers to a drink’s alcoholic strength, but the calculation differs around the world.
Ask the professor
10 September 2019
The Whisky Professor explores the differences between steam and fire-heated stills.
Ask the professor
24 September 2019
A few Scotch whisky distilleries use condensers made of steel, rather than copper, but why?
Ask the professor
02 August 2016
Most people have tasted corked wine at some point – but can the same unpleasantness affect whisky?
Ask the professor
27 July 2017
It’s one of Scotch whisky’s three ingredients, but opinion differs on yeast’s impact.
Features
04 April 2016
As part of our selection of seasonal features, Dave Broom picks the perfect drams for springtime.
The whisky virgin
11 July 2017
As the mercury nudges upwards, the Whisky Virgin discovers whisky was made for all weathers.
The whisky virgin
04 November 2015
Our innocent Whisky Virgin has fallen in love at last – but, sadly, all is not sweetness and light.
The whisky virgin
22 October 2018
The Whisky Virgin wonders how seriously to take the preference of just one whisky critic.
The whisky virgin
28 December 2018
There’s always something new to learn about whisky, as the Whisky Virgin discovers.
The whisky virgin
20 December 2017
Out to impress the rellies, our Whisky Virgin ponders which drams to crack open for Christmas.
The whisky virgin
24 July 2018
Our Whisky Virgin is feeling the heat and on the hunt for cooler ways to enjoy his whisky.
The whisky virgin
10 March 2016
Why the macho charms of Scratched Cask and Hard Fired have got the Whisky Virgin’s juices flowing.
The whisky virgin
26 August 2019
Our Whisky Virgin’s quest for enlightenment leads him to an examination of Scandinavian whisky.
Features
01 August 2019
Blenders are sharing their whisky secrets – but the reasons behind the move are complex.
Features
31 October 2018
A movement is underway to challenge blended whiskey’s reputation as cheap bottom shelf liquor.
Features
15 December 2016
‘Hygge’ is the buzzword of 2016. But what exactly does it mean? And can you do it with Scotch?
Features
08 August 2015
Are women really better at tasting than men? If so, why? An examination of whisky and gender.
Features
11 August 2016
Barley variety’s effect on flavour is a hot topic, but Bruichladdich believes there are variations.
Features
04 December 2017
A mass tasting of the Campbeltown distillery’s 2016 release of 13 single cask single malts.
Features
22 June 2016
The fine art of redesigning your product has to balance innovation with respect for heritage.
Features
10 February 2016
Plenty of tips here on how to keep that much-prized Scotch whisky collection in perfect condition.
Features
18 January 2017
As technology advances, so too do the tasks and responsibilities of master distillers.
Features
26 January 2017
It is imperative for new releases to convey brand identity, but how do producers achieve success?
Features
08 March 2017
With warmer weather and rising sea levels, producers must act fast to combat climate change.
Features
27 March 2017
More recently developed eco-friendly uses for whisky waste include powering distilleries and cars.
Features
24 July 2017
Dr Swan will be remembered as the godfather of Taiwanese whisky for his work establishing Kavalan.
Features
18 July 2016
Dave Broom has hand-picked a selection of Scotch whiskies to perfectly match the warmer weather.
Features
25 October 2017
The demise of dramming is one of the biggest changes in Scotch whisky in the last 40 years.
Features
18 February 2019
The style that almost vanished from the whisky universe is now very much back in vogue.
Features
06 August 2018
A crackpot collection of some of the craziest creations in the Scotch whisky universe.
Features
17 September 2019
Alternative grains are back in fashion as distillers add oats, rye and wheat to their pots.
Features
02 April 2019
Owned by its community, a new form of whisky distillery is giving back to the local economy.
Features
08 August 2019
The islands’ early Scotch producers defied the odds to put Orkney's whisky on the map.
Features
23 January 2017
We’ve covered spring, summer, autumn, and now Dave Broom shares his top winter whiskies.
Features
13 November 2017
How this wine-drinking nation became the world’s biggest consumer of single malts in the 1970s.
Features
11 January 2018
It’s a busy time for architects as the boom in new Scotch whisky distilleries continues.
Features
19 August 2019
With over 40 new distilleries opening this decade, is Scotch on course to repeat history?
Features
06 December 2016
Let us help you find the perfect present for the whisky lovers in your life this Christmas.
Features
05 September 2018
Discover the whiskies created to promote films, television shows and even video games.
Features
24 October 2016
Fill your glasses with cask-driven whiskies, overflowing with fruits, wood character and memories.
Features
25 January 2018
We celebrate it every year, but how did the Burns Night tradition begin?
Features
31 May 2018
These are the hotspots to hit if you want to earn your drams the hard way.
Features
20 November 2018
Screw chocolate – count down to Christmas with a whisky advent calendar to suit any budget.
Features
06 February 2018
Canada’s not the only country forcing its residents to jump hoops in the name of a decent dram.
Features
25 July 2016
Could the creation of a shared ‘flavour language’ help us communicate what we smell?
Features
21 May 2018
The historic bottler embraces change and continuity, 123 years after it was established.
Features
07 July 2016
Dave Broom travelled to Japan to explore how distillers are driving innovation in grain whisky.
Features
20 June 2017
Twenty years on, recalling the night when spirit once again ran from Ardbeg’s stills.
Features
18 May 2016
Dave Broom explores how peat is cut and burned, and busts myths surrounding PPM and peaty water.
Features
20 April 2016
Edrington’s move to Glasgow brings to an end The Fair City’s long-standing association with Scotch.
Features
26 June 2018
If stocks are limited, where are all the new Japanese whisky brands coming from?
Features
31 January 2019
As one of whisky’s three ingredients, yeast offers huge possibilities in flavour creation.
Features
20 June 2019
Distilleries are rediscovering the unique flavours oats can bring to whisky.
Features
24 September 2019
The historic crop, grown in Scotland for 1,000-plus years, is being revived by distillers.
Features
28 March 2019
The city that ruled the whisky world is back in the spotlight after decades of decline.
Features
19 September 2019
The construction of a humble whisky cask is more complex than you’d think.
Features
19 July 2017
The feline heroes famed for their mouse-hunting prowess at Scotland’s whisky distilleries.
Features
14 May 2019
Thinking about buying your own cask of maturing whisky? Here’s a guide to what’s out there.
Features
01 February 2017
Bill Lumsden tells us how the concept of the Madeira-finished Private Edition release developed.
Features
11 April 2016
A hefty dose of experimentation characterises the brewer’s foray into spirits production.
Features
27 September 2016
Eddie Russell’s first visit to a Scotch whisky distillery in the company of Dennis Malcolm.
Features
08 May 2017
Maintaining quality and consistency is vital when you’re selling millions of bottles a year.
Features
22 May 2017
Charting the history of ‘Whisky City’ in the run-up to this week’s Campbeltown Malts Festival.
Features
26 June 2019
The remote Highland region is set to return to whisky production after more than 150 years.
Features
12 August 2019
From barley field to still house, soaring temperatures can create challenges for distillers.
Features
20 August 2018
Looking into the past, present and future of the Highland distillery, founded in 1843.
Features
24 December 2018
Are you a malt maniac or dram dunce? Put your brains to the test in our annual whisky quiz.
Features
14 February 2019
Heart-warming tales of true love, from a fateful plane crash to whisky’s greatest bromance.
Features
17 December 2015
The trickiest gift to wrap is a bottle of whisky or wine, but with a little flair it needn’t be.
Features
20 October 2015
What qualities have we come to expect from the world’s best bars? Becky Paskin investigates.
Features
21 January 2016
Scotch whisky personalities choose their favourite Scottish toasts with which to raise a dram.
Interviews
12 July 2018
One of Italy’s Scotch whisky pioneers, and the man behind Milan’s legendary Bar Metrò.
Interviews
13 February 2018
The Midleton master distiller talks serendipity, single pot still and experimentation.
Interviews
04 February 2016
Glenmorangie’s restless experimenter on innovation, LVMH and creating a new whisky in 24 hours.
Interviews
28 September 2017
The malt master and a pioneer of double cask maturation reflects on his career.
Interviews
21 April 2016
Glenfiddich’s malt master on chemistry, SPPM and being a world bagpiping champion.
Interviews
29 August 2017
Dalmore’s eccentric master blender reflects on a lifetime of devotion to whisky.
Famous whisky drinkers
04 July 2018
The baseball legend was famed for his home runs – and his formidable off-field appetites.
Famous whisky drinkers
28 November 2016
The controversial American football star had a particular soft spot for Johnnie Walker Red.
Famous whisky drinkers
10 December 2015
From plots to assassinate Lenin to championing malts over blends, the dramatic story of ‘RBL’.
Famous whisky drinkers
04 September 2017
The author of A Clockwork Orange was almost as prolific with whisky and he was with the pen.
Famous whisky drinkers
30 July 2018
Scotch played a part in Close developing a reputation as the ‘bravest’ man in cricket.
Famous whisky drinkers
21 August 2017
The English-born journalist and polemicist loved controversy, and Johnnie Walker Black Label.
Famous whisky drinkers
30 April 2018
The Carry On… actor loved Scotch so much he’d insist on bringing a case on-set with him.
Famous whisky drinkers
20 October 2015
Despite her stern demeanour, the not-so-merry monarch was a great lover of Scotch whisky.
Famous whisky drinkers
15 February 2018
The four-time Oscar winner had a long and distinguished career – and a love for Famous Grouse.
Famous whisky drinkers
12 April 2018
The American writer and poet had a lasting, but devastating, love for Scotch whisky.
Whisky heroes
07 March 2018
The story of the woman whose astuteness helped create one of Scotch whisky’s strongest businesses.
Famous whisky drinkers
12 June 2019
Marvel’s hard-drinking noir hero shot to fame in her own critically-acclaimed Netflix series.
Famous whisky drinkers
30 May 2019
Tove Jansson’s much-loved creation, father of Moomintroll, is a lover of fine old whisky.
Famous whisky drinkers
21 January 2019
America’s most loved singer had a colourful off-stage life, with Jack Daniel’s to the fore.
Whisky heroes
17 October 2018
'Hal' Currie brought distilling back to the Isle of Arran after more than 150 years.
Whisky heroes
07 May 2018
The story of one of the 19th century’s great black-market whisky still manufacturers.
Whisky heroes
30 November 2015
Flamboyance, fraud and 500 talking parrots: when boom turned to bust with the ‘Pattison Crash’.
Whisky heroes
23 January 2018
He was the man behind the distillery’s cult 1960s and 1970s bottlings – but how did he do it?
Legendary Bottlings
06 August 2019
These early bottlings from Cadenhead challenge the historic narrative of single malt.
Legendary Bottlings
10 October 2019
This celebrated single malt remains, to many, one of the greatest whiskies ever made.
The collectors
17 February 2016
The life of a Laphroaig lover – and the difficulties of building such a huge collection today.
The collectors
11 October 2018
The Italian collector on how he amassed one of the world’s most enviable whisky collections.
The collectors
09 January 2017
A chance encounter with a knowledgeable bartender was the beginning of a life-long love for whisky.
The collectors
02 May 2019
The master blender on how his whisky collection has transformed into a record of his career.
The collectors
08 June 2016
Myths, escalating prices and how he was ‘trapped’ into collecting the legendary Islay single malt.
The collectors
20 September 2017
What started as a hobby turned into a sound investment for this Strathisla-loving Swiss.
The collectors
18 April 2018
The Falkirk native is enchanted by Rosebank distillery, particularly bottlings by SMWS.
The collectors
03 January 2018
The Dutch artist was lured into collecting by the exuberant fruit of this Speyside single malt.
The collectors
26 June 2017
An endeavour to taste as many whiskies as possible uncovered a penchant for St Magdalene Scotch.
The collectors
19 September 2018
The Belgian electrician who came late to whisky, but indulges his passion to the full.
The collectors
02 July 2019
The Chinese collector credits Richard Paterson for his love of Dalmore’s single malts.