Whisky tasting is a niche for some, and most people will tell you that the perfect whisky has this or has that, or is between this age and that age. The truth is, it’s all subject to personal taste. But what really makes a whisky a whisky? In our essential guide to whisky tasting we’ve picked things which might help you work out what’s for you and what’s not when it comes to this fine art.

Whisky “Experts”

The first thing you need to know, is someone who says they’re an expert when it comes to whisky tasting, and then proceeds to tell you what the best whisky is, is not an expert.

The truth is there is no such thing as an expert .. or even the perfect whisky. A whisky is a whisky and will appeal to different people with different tastes. Some people will tell you never to mix a whisky with anything other than water. While others will happily tell you their favourite whisky cocktail recipes.

Often, you will find the Islay locals will be more than willing to share their favourite malts with you. As they’ve had several years to explore the tastes of the local distilleries.

There is no such thing as a double or triple malt

Anybody who tries to sell you a “double malt” or a “triple malt” is having you on! There is no such thing.

Single malt simply means a whisky unblended with any other malt. So, anything other than a single malt is a blend. No ifs or buts about it!

It’s all about the barrel!

This might sound a bit cliche, but it’s true. The kind of barrel and where it is from has an impact on the flavour and composition of the whisky. Usually, whisky distilleries will use barrels that were previously used for alcohols such as sherry and therefore soaked in flavour. Furthermore, casks are usually made of oak.

The Key Malt Whiskies

The five most common types of Scotch Whisky, named after the area in Scotland where they are distilled:

• Islay Malts
• Highland Malts
• Strathspey Malts
• Lowland Malts
• Campbeltown Malts

Each of these whiskies have their own signature taste. Of course, a trip to Islay is incomplete without a whisky tasting session or two! Islay itself is home to eight whisky distilleries and with copious supplies of peat and fresh water on hand, Islay malts have arguably the strongest taste out of all the malt whiskies in the world. They are well known for their dry finish and particularly those from the southern part of the island are known for having quite the bite too!

Come and join us…

So without further adieu, we beckon you to come join us on the beautiful island of Islay and use this tasting guide to help you begin exploring the wonderful whisky offering of Islay!

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Dying to put pen to paper and churn out that next chapter of your debut novel? Perhaps you’ve simply had enough of your final year university dissertation? A writer’s retreat can work absolutely wonders … and Islay Cottages is the destination for you!

A Writer’s Retreat Surrounded by Nature

Whatever the block is to your creativity, the Queen of the Hebrides, Islay is certain to help clear your mind. Benefit from a stroll across one of Islay’s twenty unspoilt beaches and meditate on the tranquillity that the remote island brings.

Enjoy one of Islay’s many nature trails. Or, if you’re looking to give your mind a complete break, why not hop onto one of Islay Sea Adventures for a wildlife spotting excursion! Spot seals and porpoises in their natural habitat whilst scaling the Islay coastline. If you’re in luck, you may just spot some basking sharks too!

Look to Islay’s sky to spot some of the rarest and most majestic birds in the world. Islay is home to over 100 species of bird including eagles, hawks, falcons, ospreys and buzzards.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Islay is also home to a rich culture and history. A quick visit to the Museum of Islay Life in Port Charlotte will be a testament to that. Be inspired for writing the next chapter of your book with the Islay community and take the time to explore the eight active whisky distilleries on the island. Dip your toes into whisky tasting with a tour around Kilchoman Distillery, conveniently located a stone’s throw away from our lovely self-catering cottages.

Escape to Islay and beat Writer’s Block

An escape to tranquillity and serenity can only be a good thing for writer’s block. Why not kick back and relax at Islay Cottages? We’re sure your writer’s retreat will be nothing but soothing. Book now and get planning your trip to the Outer Hebrides!

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