By the 7-year mark, whisky truly starts to exhibit the influence of its cask. The youthful, spirited undertones it once had started to mellow, giving way to the deeper nuances derived from the wood. This age indicates a transition, where the whisky matures from its lively beginnings to a more refined and multifaceted character.
Blended malt whisky merges single malts from various distilleries. This stands apart from blended whisky, which combines single malt with single grains, and from single malt whisky, made in just one distillery. A 7-year-old blended malt whisky captures the fundamental traits of malt whisky, presenting a broad spectrum of flavours.
Creating blended malt whisky is an intricate task. Skilled blenders handpick single malts based on criteria like age, regional nuances, cask type, and distinct flavour notes. Their aim is simple: to weave these individual elements into a consistent and well-rounded taste. Interestingly, even if the single malts are sourced from diverse distilleries, they can originate from the same or various whisky regions, enhancing the blend's depth.
The flavour profile of a 7-year-old blended malt whisky is varied. It can range from the strong, smoky hints reminiscent of Islay malts to the delicate, fruity notes typical of Speyside malts. This flavour richness stems from the assortment of single malts in the blend. To ensure a uniform taste across batches, one needs a refined palate and a deep knowledge of malt whisky's many shades.
Concerning age labelling, a blended malt whisky's label will mention the age of the youngest whisky in the mix, in keeping with industry guidelines. However, the blend could also incorporate whiskies that are older than this, deepening its taste. With a focus on malt, these whiskies tend to have a fuller flavour compared to other categories. In the marketplace, blended malts hold a distinct place, known for their value. They encapsulate the sophisticated notes usually found in single malts but often with a gentler price tag, attracting both seasoned whisky aficionados and those newly venturing into the world of whisky.