Single Malt vs Blended Whisky: What’s the Difference?

Are you a beginner connoisseur looking for the next best whisky? Whether you’re debating single malt vs blended, or you’ve never tried the spirit before, find your perfect type in this comparison.

In this article, will we cover:

• What is the difference between single malt and blended whisky?

• Is single malt better than blended whisky?

• Single malt vs blended price

• Blended vs single malt food pairings

What Is the Difference Between Single Malt and Blended Whisky?

Single Malt Whisky

Single malt whisky is made from pure malted barley and is distilled at an individual distillery. Most batches are aged in rare oak barrels from America or Europe. The production method and maturation time is unique to both the whisky and the distillery. However, it is also the most followed process by producers across the world.

Blended Whisky

Blended whisky is made from multiple types of malts and grains from different distilleries. Because of its simple process, it accounts for the majority of the Scotch whisky market. The short maturation time allows for a balanced flavour that is not too strong, but is still open to experimentation if not quite right.

Is Single Malt Better Than Blended Whisky?

Single Malt Whisky

Single malt whisky is thought to be more luxurious than blended whisky. For example, it may use higher quality ingredients that enhance the texture and flavour.

Blended Whisky

However, blended whisky generally tastes smoother as the flavour never fully develops. This makes it perfect for beginners who are ready to venture into the world of hard spirits.

While single malt whisky is the clear favourite for taste and blended for fast availability, it purely boils down to preference. After all, be it single or blended, no two whiskies taste alike.

Single Malt vs Blended Price

Single Malt Whisky

Connoisseurs looking for a premium whisky often opt for single malt. Not only are the ingredients rarer, but are truly richer in flavour due to the long maturation process. As such, each single malt batch is limited.

Blended Whisky

Whereas, blended whisky is typically more affordable as it uses common malts and grains. It also boasts a shorter maturation period, making the production process quicker and inexpensive.

Where there are 20 blended whiskies, there may only be 10 single malt bottles. If they are labelled £60 a piece, the price of one blended whisky may be just £30. However, it really depends on the brand, batch and production process.

Blended vs Single Malt Food Pairings

Regardless of blended vs single malt, it’s important to emphasise the liquor with the correct food pairing. If you can’t decide which whisky type is for you, perhaps your choice in cuisine will sway you.

Single Malt Whisky

If you are a lover of rich flavours that you would find in an exquisite restaurant, then we recommend single malt. Some common food pairings include:

• Snack: Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)

• Lunch: Cheese (aged cheddar, gouda, blue) and smoked salmon

• Dinner: Steak or lamb with spicy or peppery notes

• Dessert: Caramel or toffee sweet, or dark chocolate with fruity or nutty notes

Blended Whisky

If you have a sweet tooth, but still appreciate stronger flavours, we recommend blended whisky. Some common food pairings include:

• Snack: Nuts (mixed batch or roasted almonds), stuffed mushrooms or shrimp cocktail

• Lunch: Charcuterie with cured meats (prosciutto salami, smoked sausage) and mild cheese (gouda, havarti, swiss), or bruschetta

• Dinner: Barbecued meats (ribs, chicken wings, pulled pork) with smoky or spicy notes

• Dessert: Fresh or dried fruits (apples, pears, figs)

Single Malt and Blended Spirits Available at Lochs of Whisky

In the difficult case of single malt vs blended whisky, we offer no contest. We recommend any beginner try blended whisky before navigating through the strong flavours of single malt. However, if you’re no stranger to hard spirits and a luxurious meal, then single malt whisky is for you.

Alternatively, why not try both? Here at Lochs of Whisky, we stock both single malt and blended whisky. Whether you prefer a classic Scotch or you want to branch out into world favourites, we provide something for everyone.

If you have any queries about our whisky, don’t hesitate to contact us.