The 27th July is National Scotch Day, so we thought we’d have a brief look back at its history and explore some of the best tasting scotch whiskies available today.
As with many of the best things, scotch whisky originated in Scotland, first distilled as long ago as 1494. Due to the lack of technical expertise and equipment, the tipple was extremely potent in the beginning and on occasion, harmful to the drinker.
The process for distilling scotch was refined over the years and gradually became a key feature in social society. When the Scottish Parliament realised how popular the drink was, they introduced a tax on malts and bottles of scotch in 1644. Distillers were driven underground and illicit smuggling became normality for over 150 years.
In 1823, after years of law breaking and the secret enjoyment of illegal scotch, the law changed, allowing the distilling of scotch whisky to resume in return for a small fee and a set payment per gallon. The smuggling gradually ceased and the industry settled into how it is known today.
These days scotch whisky is freely enjoyed by many, helping us to relax or enjoyed as a treat. It is loved so much that we have given it a national day, where distillers may offer tours and demonstrations of how the beverage is made. To mark the national celebration, here are just a few of our favourite scotch whiskies!
Having been matured in sherry casks, MacPhails Malt Scotch Whisky is 25 years old and offers a thick, traditional Speyside flavour. It is full bodied and complex, with a fruity note and herbal toffee and menthol aromas. It is well balanced, sweet and creamy, with a spicy edge.
GlenDronarch Allardice Scotch Whisky
This 18 year old scotch whisky has been matured in the finest Spanish Oloroso sherry casks and bottled at 46%. This sublime malt is unforgettable, with a sweet fudge and sugar nose, as well as fruit compote and morello cherries. This whisky can be described as seductive, with rich and bold flavours that will keep you coming back for more.
Glengoyne 10 Year Old Whisky Hamper
We love our Glengoyne Hamper, it makes a fantastic gift to someone who appreciates great tasting scotch whisky. The 10 year old scotch has a clean golden colour and a sweet, malty finish. It has been traditionally made and comes with Uisge Water from Rosshire to help bring out the aroma and taste. With the choice of a gift box or a wicker hamper basket, the treat is complete with a whisky tasting glass, Vikingstones Whisky Stones and an online learning experience for finding its origins.
This scotch whisky has a gentler flavour than some of the older ones. It is a classic amber coloured single Islay malt whisky, with a refreshing citrus and honey sweetness that is simply moreish.
There is no doubt that scotch whisky is a fantastic drink that can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone, with flavours and price tags to match all palettes and purses. If you have a whisky in mind that is not on our website, get in touch and we will work on sourcing it for you. That’s how far we will go for beautifully tasting scotch whisky!
Email us at info@finescottishhampers.com or call on 0845-3881988
Sources
https://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/food-drink/whisky/history/
http://www.scotch-whisky.org.uk/understanding-scotch/history-of-scotch-whisky/
