The Regions

Welcome welcome. Today I will be speaking about the different regions of whisky distillation in Scotland. This discussion of flavors only applies to single malts. Blends are blends of different regions...so it's a mixture.

Now, there are 4 main regions of whisky distillation* (actually there is 5...but I'll explain later). They are the Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside, and Islay.

Lowlands: The most delicate of the regions. Light, herbal, and complex, the Lowlands region is the southern half of the main body of Scotland. There are only 3 lowlands distilleries active. They Bladnoch, Auchentoshan and Glenkinchie. The Lowlands is the only region using the triple distillation method. Each malt is distilled 3 times before being casked and bottled. I think the main reason other regions do not is that it's time consuming! 3 times the time necessary. Also, flavor-wise, other regions do not lend themselves to such delicacy. Lowlands are widely enjoyed by many, but they lack the romanticism of the Highlands. The Lowlands geography is flat, for from the dramatic hill and mountains of the Highlands or the craggy coasts of Islay. Lowlands are a perfect summer's day scotch. One can taste the grass in the heat, the delicate flowers from the breeze, the supple sweetness of the honey, and all without offending a delicate nose. Lowlands are underrated and underappreciated. One can only hope more distilleries find a foothold.

Highlands: The largest region, this region is smokey, fruity, heavier than lowlands, spicy, and varied. Since the region is so large, whiskies can vary from the heathery spice of Northern Highlands to the fruity flavors of Southern Highlands. Some famous distilleries are Oban, Glenmorangie, Dalmore, Dalwwhinnie, among many. They are more full-bodied than Lowlands and carry a more viscous feeling to the liquid on your tongue. This, compounded with the smokiness and spiciness of certain malts makes a Highland a sitting experience (or at least a stopping experience). Not one to drink on the go (nor is any scotch, really).

Speyside: Surrounded by the Highlands, the Speyside region  occupies a specific space within the scotch ethos. Speyside is the center of scotch whisky. Located along the river Spey, more than half of the distilleries in all of Scotland are located in this region. The flavors are strong of smoke, fruit, syrup, and elegance. Famous distilleries include Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Glenlivet. Speyside has a firm body followed by distinct flavors ranging from fruitiness to smokiness, spice with nuts and coffee. The most well-known.

Islay: Named after the island and pronounced "eye-luh", these are tastes of the sea. Salty, seaweed, iodine, smoke, PEAT PEAT PEAT, and warmth, Islay whiskies are the most distinct of any region. My personal favorite, Islay whiskies are NOT for beginners. They can be overwhelming to nostrils and tongues alike, but once conquered offer the most intense flavors (in my opinion). Islay often astound me because they are the same ingredients...but they taste so radically different. Amazing.

Now...for the 5th. Campbeltown was once a booming capital of Scotland for whisky, but has since fallen into near nothingness. As of recent, the distilleries are making a comeback. Whiskies include Glen Scotia, Glengyle, and Springbank. The whiskies from here are a cross between and Islay and the mainland whiskies. There is a definite peatiness and saltiness, but to a much lesser degree. The whiskies tend of be bright and light as opposed to the oilier, heavier Islays.

There are a few other islands where whiskies come from (notably Talisker), but not entire regions.

Now you're thinking, "Which is best?" Impossible to tell. That's like asking if I like to breathe. Ok, terrible simile. But what mood am I in? What's the weather outside? What time is it? Have I eaten? Lowlands are perfect for hot days. Highlands are wonderful paired with a cigar. Speysides are wonderful digestives. Islays are a meal in themselves! Campbeltown can be an aperitif. Is your palate sensitive? Do you like the beach? Do you like fruit? Nuts? Chocolate? The possibilities are endless. Currently I have 2 islays, a lowlands, a Campbeltown, and 2 blends. Next...perhaps a Highlands. I've had my eye on a few different ones. Amongst my friends, I have the affinity for islays (although I'm working on them!). They don't particulary enjoy the harshness that can be associated with many islays. Different strokes for different folks. 

So there you have it. My painless regional variations. What's you mood? 

Next time: a review!