Scotch whisky
Spirit
Scotch whisky is a whisky made in Scotland from malted barley, grain or both, and aged at least three years in oak casks. UK law sets its rules, including a bottling strength of at least 40% ABV.
Also called: Scotch · Scotch whiskey
- ABV range
- 40–60%
- US proof
- 80–120
- Calories (per oz)
- ~64
- Shelf life (opened)
- Best within about 1 to 2 years. Safe for much longer, but the malt and smoke fade over time.
Popular drinks with Scotch whisky
343 recipes with Scotch whisky.
Add Scotch whisky to your bar in the Garçon mobile app
Two ingredient drinks with Scotch whisky
Substitutes for Scotch whisky
| Substitute | Ratio | Note | Zero-proof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blended Scotch whisky | 1:1 | The everyday Scotch. Works for blended malt and grain whisky, but it has little smoke, so it will not replace a peated float. | |
| Rye whiskey | 1:1 | Drier and spicier, with no smoke. Works in a stirred drink like a Rob Roy, where the sweet vermouth balances it. | |
| Bourbon | 1:1 | Sweeter and without the smoke. Works in highballs and sours, but it changes the taste of the drink. | |
| Lyre's American Malt | 1:1 | Non-alcoholic, under 0.5% ABV, with malt and oak notes. It lacks the peat smoke of most Scotch. |
Types of Scotch whisky
- Blended Scotch whisky
- Single malt Scotch whisky
- Blended malt – A mix of single malts from several distilleries, with no grain whisky.
- Grain – Made from wheat or maize in a column still. Usually used in blends.
- Peated – Malted barley dried over peat smoke, which gives a smoky taste. Islay whiskies are often peated.
- Peated single malt – A single malt made from peated barley, with a strong smoky taste.
Frequently asked questions about Scotch whisky
Scotch is sipped neat or with a splash of water, which opens up the malt and the smoke. It also makes a classic highball with soda water, and it is the base of the Rob Roy.
The classic serve: Neat in a tumbler, with a few drops of still water.
