More than a hundred distinct brands offer single malt, single grain, and types of blended Scotch, which is Scotland’s national drink. Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland, and Speyside are the five regions of Scotland responsible for manufacturing whisky, and each has its own unique flavor profile thanks to phrazle the impact of the local water and environment.
Scotch whisky must adhere to a number of rules established by the Scottish government. The whisky must firstly be produced in Scotland. Malted barley and water are required, although other whole grains can be included. However, save from water and caramel coloring, no other additives are allowed. All whisky must be at least three years old and less than 94.8% ABV, and it must be aged in oak barrels in Scotland.
Travelers are planning trips to distilleries all around the world as interest in distilled spirits grows. That means more people will want to see Scotland’s historic distilleries, some of which date back centuries. A reference to whisky manufacture can be found in the Exchequer Rolls from 1494.
Single-malt Scotch whisky from the Oban distillery, located in the town of Oban on Scotland’s west coast, has been made there since 1794. Sweepstakes Two winners (aged 21 and above) will get a trip for two to Oban, Scotland, including all expenses paid. Derek Maclean, who works at the distillery, built the apartment where the guests would stay, known as the Oban Abode. There will be a number of local activities available, as well as a VIP tour of a distillery. On September 2, 2021, the entry period will close.
On this special day, you can celebrate with a Scotch on the rocks before dinner or a neat Scotch afterward. You may also try a Scotch-based cocktail like a Rob Roy, which is similar to a Manhattan but is made with Scotch instead of rye or bourbon. Scotch whisky isn’t typically paired with food, but there are actually quite a few excellent combinations.
Nuts, cheeses, and meats go well with Scotch whiskeys, and dark chocolate is another good pairing. I just had a 12-year-old GlenDronach single-malt Scotch with some aged Manchego cheese, and the combination was fantastic. No crackers were necessary to enjoy the harmonious pairing of the Scotch’s subtle sweetness and the cheese’s tangy sharpness. The Scotch went great with a handful of salted cashews as well.
A glass of Scotch, some snacks, and a travel brochure could be the perfect way to kick off a trip to the birthplace of a spirit that is seeing renewed popularity centuries after it was first created.