8 Reasons to love Scotch
With International Scotch Day upon us, we asked eight of the biggest names in whisky ‘what’s your favourite thing about Scotch?’
As if we needed another excuse to continue our love affair with Scotch, today (8th February) is International Scotch Day.
Right now there are over 22 million casks of Scotch whisky slowly maturing in warehouses across Scotland, each with its own distinct flavour.
They’ve been made by the 142 Scotch whisky distilleries producing spirit across the country, from the Lowlands to the Highlands, Islay to Edinburgh. No two distilleries are alike. Each has its own character shaped by people, place and ingredients that results in a style of whisky that is completely unique.
With its rich history and varied styles, there are a multitude of things to love about Scotch whisky. But don’t just take our word for it: We asked those making an impact in the industry today what they love most about Scotch whisky.
Nicola Riske, Brand Education Manager, The Macallan
“What I adore about Scotch whisky is the complexity of flavours that it offers. Discovering the aromas, textures and character of the liquid – especially with others – is one of my favourite things to do. It sparks such brilliant conversations and I get to use all of my senses in the process. I find it both an analytical and emotive process, which I truly love.”
Jackie Thomson, Visitor Centre Manager, Ardbeg
“The sense of community. Living on Islay and receiving visitors who travel here who in turn become part of a vibrant whisky community means transcending the liquid. Islay is far enough away from the chaotic world that it is good for the soul. There is so much sea and sky and sand and rock and wind and silence that it seeps into your pores and the connection with the whisky is powerful.”
Annabel Thomas, Founder, Nc’Nean
“Picking one favourite is tough when there are so many great things about Scotch, but ultimately I think it comes down to flavour. The versatility of the spirit is just wonderful. Especially when you consider what strict parameters it is made within – you can be drinking a beautifully smooth rich single malt with soda over ice on a summer’s evening or cradling a smoky bomb on a winter’s evening in a pub. In between you get sweet, salty, funky, herbal… and all this just from malted barley, yeast, wood, and in some cases, peat.”
Emma Walker, Master Blender, Johnnie Walker
“My favourite thing about Scotch whisky is the great people you get to work with, and the different places where Scotch is made that impact flavour throughout production.”
Jamie Johnson, Brand Ambassador, Glenfiddich Canada
“I have come to love almost everything about Scotch, so I guess the big answer would be: I love the journey. I love the journey of the process of Scotch, from grain to glass. I love the journey through history in its molecules, through traditions passed down and generations of whisky makers living through so many historical moments. I love the journey in the glass – the nose, the palate and the finish, leaving it for a bit and then returning to it. I love the journey of memory and stories it awakens. Taking me back to a time and place or celebration that makes me feel so warm and happy.”
Chelsey Belec and Pam Dobbin, Hosts, the Dram Fine Podcast
“Our love for whisky began and continues to be rooted in the lifelong connections it has brought to us. Whisky, ultimately, has provided us jobs, harboured lifelong friendships and even has been the conduit to finding true love. Investing our time into learning and loving Scotch whisky has changed the trajectory of our lives for the better. Absolutely. There is also something very special about drinking Scotch as you are the ultimate destination of a lengthy production process that is rich with history and tradition.”
Lauren Wood, Dufftown Distilleries & VIP Ambassador, William Grant & Sons
“I’ve worked for a few different companies over the years and the people have been the highlight. Whisky brings people together with shared interests, passions, best practices and so on. We learn so much from each other, it’s a constant source of inspiration in both professional and personal capacities. I love stepping into a distillery and experiencing the different smells, the fluctuating temperatures and hearing stories from those that work there. I also love the versatility of Scotch whisky. I enjoy a dram neat, with water and I’m also open to trying any Scotch whisky cocktail. I truly believe there is something for everyone when it comes to Scotch.”
Tracie Franklin, whisky & Spirits Educator
“As one of the first global whiskies, Scotch had acquired a complicated reputation. It was exclusive and yet on every back bar. It was the drink of hairy burly Scotsmen, but my lovely sassy wardrobe mistress drank it every night. I wasn’t sure what to expect when the first glass of single malt landed in my hand but the smell of burnt rubber, bandaids, and smoked meat was like nothing I had experienced before. I fell in love with the dynamic and overwhelming flavours of Islay and this became my solace after a long day of travel and performing. However, it wasn’t until a cosmopolitan friend I adored ordered me a Speyside dram that I began to understand the dichotomy of Scotch whisky. It was delicate and bold, traditional and innovative, inclusive and luxurious, and it changed my life. My favourite thing about Scotch is that it can be everything and anything I want it to be.”
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