Blended Malt

Blended malt whisky: the perfection of the blend

The controversy surrounding the terms: Vatted Malt, Pure Malt and Blended Malt

The terms for blended malt whisky have changed several times over the years, leading to controversial discussions. Originally, this category of whisky was referred to as ‘vatted malt’ - a 19th century term that referred to the blending of different single malts in a large cask (‘vat’). Later, the term ‘pure malt’ also appeared, suggesting that only malted barley was used. However, many consumers confused this with single malt, which led to confusion and was sometimes deliberately used for marketing purposes.

To create clarity, the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) introduced the term ‘blended malt whisky’ as an official designation in 2009. This was intended to clearly distinguish it from blended Scotch whisky, which also contains grain whisky. However, the decision was not without controversy: critics complained that ‘blended’ could give the impression that grain whisky was included, while traditionalists lamented the loss of the historical term ‘vatted malt’.

Despite the debates, ‘blended malt’ has become the standard. While purists cling to the old terms, the official regulation ensures greater transparency and a clear distinction within the whisky world.

Origin and international terms of blended malt whisky

Scotland is the undisputed home of blended malt whisky and has characterised its production for centuries. The whisky regions of Speyside, Highlands, Islay, Lowlands and Campbeltown provide the diverse flavour profiles that are essential for blending. While single malts reflect the terroir of a region, blended malts combine different styles - such as smoky Islay whiskies with fruity Speyside malts for a harmonious overall picture.

There are similar concepts outside Scotland, albeit under different names. In Japan, the term ‘pure malt’ is often used, as Japanese distilleries usually blend their own malts. In Ireland or the USA, on the other hand, blended whiskey dominates, which contains grain whisky as well as malts. Despite international variations, Scotland remains the most important producer and benchmark for quality in this category.

What makes blended malt whisky special?

Blended malt whisky is made exclusively from a blend of single malts, without the addition of grain whisky. This art of blending makes it possible to combine the best characteristics of different single malts to create an incomparable flavour experience. Blended malts offer the complexity and depth of single malts, coupled with a harmonious balance achieved through blending.

Blended malt vs. single malt, blended scotch & single grain whisky

A single malt whisky comes from just one distillery and is distilled exclusively from malted barley. This gives it a very individual flavour, which is characterised by the production method, the barley used, the stills and the barrel storage. Single malts are often multi-layered, but can also be heavily dependent on vintage fluctuations.

A blended malt whisky, on the other hand, combines different single malts, often from different regions, which results in a more complex and rounded flavour. A peaty Islay whisky, for example, can be combined with a fruity Speyside whisky to create a balanced flavour with smoky and fruity elements.

The situation is completely different with blended Scotch whisky. Both malt whisky and grain whisky are used here. Grain whisky is usually milder and lighter than malt whisky, which means that blended Scotch is often softer, less intense and more suitable for the masses. These whiskies are particularly popular for beginners or for use in cocktails.

There is another difference to single grain whisky, which - like a single malt - only comes from a single distillery, but can also contain other types of grain such as wheat or corn in addition to malted barley. This often results in lighter, sweeter and milder flavours that are less complex than malt whiskies.

Unique flavour profiles

Blended malt whiskies offer an impressive variety of flavours that vary depending on their composition and origin. Typical flavours include malt, fruit, spice, honey, vanilla and sometimes peat and smoke. This versatility makes blended malt whisky particularly attractive to connoisseurs looking for a balanced and profound drinking experience.

The influence of cask maturation

Cask maturation is a key factor that influences the final flavour profile. The choice of cask plays a decisive role, as whisky absorbs up to 70% of its flavours from the wood during storage. Bourbon and sherry casks are used particularly frequently, each bringing different nuances to the whisky. Former bourbon casks made from American white oak lend the whisky notes of vanilla, caramel, coconut and light spices, while sherry casks, which are often made from European oak, contribute more intense flavours of dried fruit, dark chocolate, nuts and a subtle sweetness.

Many blended malts combine whiskies from different cask types to achieve an even greater depth of flavour. For example, fruity and sweet notes from sherry casks can be harmoniously balanced with the creamy vanilla of a bourbon cask. This complexity makes blended malt whisky particularly exciting and allows the perfect profile to be found for every taste.

The best blended malt whisky brands

In our online shop you will find a carefully curated selection of the best blended malt whiskies. Here are some of the best-known and most prestigious brands whose products you can find here:

• Monkey Shoulder: One of the best-known blended malt brands, famous for its smooth and creamy whiskies with fruity and malty notes.
• Johnnie Walker Green Label: An excellent blended malt known for its complex and deep flavours, which come from a blend of single malts from four regions of Scotland.
• Compass Box: This innovative brand is known for its creative and high-quality blends that impress with their exceptional flavour profiles.
• Big Peat: A strong and smoky blended malt made from Islay single malts, which is appreciated for its intense peat and smoke flavours.
• Hedonism: A luxurious blended malt known for its velvety and complex flavours, achieved through the careful selection of the finest single malts.

Whisky tasting at home

Would you like to get to know the world of blended malt whisky better? Take advantage of our range of tasting sets and samples. These sets allow you to try different blended malts and discover your favourites. Also perfect as a gift idea for whisky lovers!

Buying whisky made easy

Our online shop offers you a user-friendly platform where you can order your favourite whisky easily and securely. Thanks to detailed product descriptions and customer reviews, you can quickly find the whisky that suits your taste. You also benefit from our regular promotions and discounts.

Conclusion

Blended malt whisky offers a fascinating variety of flavour profiles and aromas that will delight every whisky lover. In our online shop, you will find an exclusive selection of the best blended malt whiskies that you can order from the comfort of your own home. Immerse yourself in the world of blended malt whisky and discover the harmonious art of whisky production.