10 things you need to know about whisky
Whisky can be a daunting subject, so to help celebrate World Whisky Day, we spoke to whisky ambassador Colin Dunn to discover his top 10 whisky facts and the best places to drink it
1. There are three basic types of Scotch Whisky produced in Scotland: grain, malt and blended. Single Grain Scotch Whiskies such as HAIG CLUB™ and Single Malts such as LAGAVULIN™
2. Globally the most popular type of whisky is a blend, created by mixing whiskies from various malt and grain distilleries. A great example of this is the Johnnie Walker range which offers a series of award-winning blends all with different flavour profiles.
3. The spelling of whisky, or whiskey differs geographically. As a rule of thumb, American and Irish prefer 'whiskey', while Scots, Canadians and the rest of the world prefer 'whisky'
4. Whiskies made in Scotland are called Scotch! Around 90% of single malt whiskies come from Scotland and must be distilled and matured in oak casks for a minimum of three years plus one day
5. And scotch isn't just for drinking neat! Enjoy drinking Scotch cocktails in some of the best bars in the country. There are just so many different flavours that there is sure to be one to suit your palate - just ask your bartender
6. Scotch is delicious and versatile paired with food. Try a peppery Talisker with smoked salmon, or a smoky Lagavulin with blue cheese, you'll be surprised how the flavours of these whiskies resonate!
7. Whisky fans in the UK often choose to enjoy Scotch with just a little water, but in Spain they love to mix it with cola. In Japan, whisky is enjoyed with lots of soda water and ice, and in China with cold green tea.
8. There are hundreds of whisky festivals around the world where you can sample and find out what flavours you like, go experiment!
9. Celebrate World Whisky Day on the 21st May by visiting some of the top whisky bars in the UK. Newly-opened Black Rock is a whisky lover's dream, while Scarfes Bar at Rosewood London and the Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland both have an awe-inspiring collection to choose from.
10. And finally, there are no rules about drinking scotch, you just need an open mind and an open palate.
This World Whisky Day on 21 May, adults around the world will be showcasing their own passion for Scotch by sharing their #LoveScotch selfie featuring themselves with their favourite dram and tagging #LoveScotch Don’t forget to celebrate your love for Scotch with a selfie of you enjoying your favourite tipple
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