Blended malts are steadily getting the attention it deserves. Searches for blended malt whisky on Master of Malt have jumped 27% in the last quarter alone.
Whisky lovers are exploring this versatile category like never before, and distilleries are taking notice.
Whether it’s premium blends, innovative cask finishes, or exciting new brands, blended malt whisky is carving out a strong place in the whisky scene.
What does the rise of blended malt whisky mean for the industry?
What Is Blended Malt Whisky?
Blended malt whisky is a mix of single malts from different distilleries. They have previously been called vatted malts or pure malts but those terms have fallen out of use.
It is not to be confused with blended whisky, which includes grain whisky. It’s also unlike single malt, which must come from one distillery, blended malt whisky is about harmony, combining the best of multiple distilleries to create something unique.
This style allows enough room for creativity, giving producers the freedom to craft a whisky that balances different flavour profiles, without compromising the quality of the final product.
From the peated, smoky whiskies to the sherried and the sweet, a well-blended malt can offer layers of complexity and depth.
The category is officially recognised in Scotland and that’s where the most famous blended malts are crafted, but the style has long been popular in Japan and stretches beyond to Ireland, England, France, and beyond.
Blended malts are made beyond Scotland
Why Are Blended Malts on the Rise?
The growing interest in blended malt whisky is driven by the following:
More Choice, More Adventure – Whisky drinkers are getting more adventurous, seeking out lesser-known brands and innovative expressions. The days of having “your whisky” and drinking only it seem far the in the past.
Craft Meets Collaboration – Independent bottlers and craft distilleries are blending malts to create fresh takes on traditional styles. Penderyn Patagonia, for example, combined Welsh single malt whisky with malt whisky from La Alazana Distillery in Patagonia. Blended malt whisky brands are also releasing limited editions that are catching collectors’ attention.
Premium Perception – Unlike blended whisky, which some see as lower quality (not something I agree with off-hand, every whisky should be judged individually on its merits), blended malts are gaining recognition as a premium category. If you’re marrying fine malt whisky, the chances are you’ll create something outstanding from it.
Douglas Laing makes a range of fine blended malts under different brands
The Best Blended Malt Whiskies to Try in 2025
If you’re looking to dive into the world of blended malts, here are some top-notch bottles worth trying:
Johnnie Walker Green Label 15 Year Old Whisky – well-aged single malts from the four corners of Scotland come together in this not-so-hidden gem.
The Six Isles Voyager Whisky – A bold blend of six coastal and island malts, this Ian Macleod creation brings together smoky, briny, and fruity elements.
Kamiki Blended Malt Whisky – This Japanese blended malt whisky was aged in cedar casks for a distinct, aromatic twist.
Campbeltown Loch Blended Malt Whisky – A blend from Springbank’s stable, combining the region’s trademark oiliness with a hint of peat.
Scallywag Speyside Blended Malt Whisky – A sherried Speyside blend from Douglas Laing, packed with dried fruit and toffee notes.
Michel Couvreur Overaged Malt Whisky – This blended malt gets Scotch whisky sent over to France to be aged in Sherry oak casks in Burgundy before blending.
Bankhall British Malts Whisky – Bonnington Scotch whisky, Aber Falls Welsh whisky, and English whisky Bankhall are blended in this triumphant creation.
Lambay Malt Irish Whiskey – This blended malt features whiskies from a selection of Irish distilleries alongside Lambay single malt finished in a Cognac cask.
Highland Malt Pot Still Whisky – For those who want novelty, this Highland Malt sports a unique presentation with a flavour profile to match, full of sherried richness and spice*.
Monkey Shoulder is one of the most popular blended whiskies
The Last Drop: Our final thoughts on the rise of blended malts
Blended malt whisky is proving that you don’t need to stick to single malts to experience depth and complexity.
As distilleries continue to experiment and expand their blended malt whisky selection, expect more exciting releases, new brands, and plenty of flavour exploration.
Pour yourself a dram and enjoy the ride.
*Sadly the Ship in a Bottle Whisky is sold out, we know some people were interested.
