There are hundreds of different blends of Scotch Whiskey that vary according to the water used and the amount of peat in the surrounding area, the temperature and the length and method of distillation.
Here are a selection of six top brands of single malt (unblended whiskeys):
Laphroaig. 10 year old malt.
The Laphroaig distillery is situated on the Scottish Island of Islay using the smoky, peaty spring water found on the island. The bottle bears the Prince of Wales Crest as it one of the Prince Charles' favourite tipples.
Talkisker. 18 year old, single island malt.
Distilled on the western Scottish Island of Skye, this single malt has a very strong aroma and a distinct flavour which comes from the spring water that permeates through the rocks next door to the distillery. This is a full bodied, smooth whiskey with a distinct flavor.
Blair Athol. 12 year old single malt.
This single malt whiskey is distilled in the Scottish Highlands. It is dark in color and has a mellow but distinctive aroma. There is clearly a touch of spice and lemon peel in the after taste.
Drumguish. 5 year old single malt.
Speyside distillery takes it's water from the river Tromie. This distillery has some of the smallest commercial stills in Scotland. The aroma of this single malt is fresh and clean with a very slight menthol touch. The pale spirit has a reputation for being the "best whiskey in the world."
Glenfarclas. Single malt.
This rich and powerful spirit is distilled in Speyside. Glenfarclas comes in a range of ages: 10, 12 and 17 year old single malt and the strength of the spirit varies accordingly. The 17 year old version is 43% proof. It also comes in a powerful 60% cask strength. The overall flavor of this spirit is malty, smoky and slightly dry.
Braeval. Single malt.
The Braeval distillery in Banffshire, Scotland is only 25 years old. The aroma of this whiskey which is often used to make blends, is malty with a touch of dried grass. It tastes spicy and slightly sweet with a hint of vanilla and is best enjoyed neat.
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