Scotland, a country celebrated for its fine whisky, has been diversifying its spirits production, creating innovative beverages that, while derived from whisky, deviate from traditional methods either through the infusion of additional flavours, younger ageing periods, or unconventional maturation techniques. These spirits, though not technically classified as whisky, offer a unique and diverse range of flavours while showcasing Scotland's rich distilling heritage.
Spirits Aged Under Three Years
By law, Scotch whisky must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. However, some distilleries have been producing spirits using the same base as whisky - malted barley or grain - but aged for a shorter period. These spirits, often referred to as "New Make" or "Spirit Drinks," provide a glimpse into the raw character of the distillery’s output before the maturation process imparts additional flavours and complexity. Although they lack the depth and nuance of traditionally aged whisky, these spirits showcase the pure, unadulterated flavours of the malt or grain and the distillery's character.
Botanical Spirits
Drawing inspiration from the world of gin, some Scottish distilleries are experimenting with botanical spirits. These are made by redistilling whisky with botanicals or by infusing botanicals during the maturation process. The result is a spirit that marries the rich, earthy tones of whisky with the aromatic, herbal qualities of botanicals. These can include traditional gin botanicals like juniper, coriander, and citrus peel or locally sourced Scottish herbs and plants, providing a new level of flavour experimentation.
Whisky Liqueurs
Whisky liqueurs have been part of Scottish tradition for centuries, combining whisky with honey, herbs, spices, and other sweeteners. These liqueurs, such as Drambuie and Glayva, are sweeter and lower in alcohol content than traditional whisky and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of various cocktails. They offer a rich tapestry of flavours, from sweet and herbal to spicy and complex, making them accessible even to those who might not typically enjoy straight whisky.
Finished Spirits
Some Scottish spirits undergo a process called finishing, where they are transferred to a second cask previously used for maturing other wines or spirits. While this is common in whisky production, some distilleries are pushing boundaries by using casks from a wide array of different sources, such as rum, tequila, or unusual wine varieties. These spirits, though based on whisky, take on a character so distinctly different from their origin that they become a category of their own, often surprising connoisseurs with their unexpected flavour profiles.
Hybrid Spirits
Hybrid spirits involve blending Scotch with other spirits or even with fermented products. Examples include spirits that blend Scotch whisky with rum or bourbon, creating a product that has characteristics of both. These hybrids are a testament to the innovative spirit of modern distilleries, breaking down traditional barriers to create new, exciting flavours.The landscape of Scotch-based spirits is as diverse as it is exciting. These products reflect a willingness among distillers to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional whisky-making, offering consumers an expansive palette of tastes and experiences. While they may not meet the strict legal definitions of Scotch whisky, they carry forward Scotland’s legacy of distillation and contribute richly to its celebrated spirits culture.