The Best Scotch Whiskey

When you think of whiskey, Scotch is often the first thing that comes to mind. It's known for its distinct flavors and the care that goes into making each bottle. From casual drinkers to serious collectors, Scotch has something for everyone.

If you're in Liverpool, NY, and looking to explore the world of Scotch, Pascale's Liquors on Oswego Road is a great place to start. We've got shelves stocked with various Scotch whiskeys, from well-known brands to hidden gems.

Scotch isn’t just any whiskey – it has to follow a few rules to earn the name "Scotch."

First, Scotch has to be made in Scotland (no surprises there). It's mostly made from barley, and it needs to age in oak barrels for at least three years. These rules make sure that when you buy a bottle of Scotch, you're getting the real deal.

Scotch has been around for a long time. People in Scotland have been making it for hundreds of years. At first, it was just a local drink, but over time, people all over the world started to enjoy it.

One cool thing about Scotch is that it can taste different depending on where in Scotland it's made. There are five main regions:

1. Highlands: These often taste a bit sweet, maybe with a hint of honey.
2. Speyside: Known for being fruity and easy to drink.
3. Islay: If you like smoky flavors, Islay Scotch is for you.
4. Lowlands: These are usually lighter and smoother.
5. Campbeltown: These can be a mix of flavors, sometimes salty or smoky.

When you're looking at Scotch, you'll often see "single malt" or "blended" on the label. Single malt means the whiskey comes from just one distillery and is made only from barley. Blended Scotch mixes whiskeys from different distilleries and can use other grains too. Both can be great – it just depends on what you like.

Scotch whiskey and single malt Scotch may sound similar, but they represent different categories within the whiskey world. Scotch whiskey is an umbrella term for any whiskey made in Scotland according to specific regulations. This includes various styles like blended Scotch, single grain, and single malt, offering a wide range of flavors depending on the blend of grains and distillation methods.

Single malt Scotch, on the other hand, is a more refined category made from 100% malted barley and produced at a single distillery. It’s known for its distinct, often more complex flavor profiles that reflect the characteristics of a specific distillery. While all single malts are Scotch, not all Scotch whiskeys are single malts. Single malts are often seen as the gold standard, celebrated for their craftsmanship and depth of flavor.

Here are our top picks for best scotch whiskey under $100:

To fully enjoy Scotch whiskey, it's worth taking the time to taste it properly. Start by observing the color, which can give clues about age and cask type. Then, gently swirl the whiskey and smell it, taking in the various aromas. When you taste, let it coat your tongue before swallowing to experience all the flavors.

For the best tasting experience, use a tulip-shaped glass or a Glencairn whiskey glass. These shapes concentrate the aromas, enhancing your nosing experience. Avoid using ice, as it can dull the flavors. Instead, try adding a few drops of water to open up the whiskey's aromas and flavors.

Rich, smoky Scotches pair well with strong cheeses or dark chocolate. Lighter Scotches complement seafood, particularly smoked salmon. For a classic pairing, try Scotch with haggis or other traditional Scottish dishes.

Aging has a huge impact on Scotch whiskey production and its flavor. As the spirit rests in oak barrels, it undergoes significant changes that shape its final flavor profile.

During aging, the whiskey interacts with the wood, absorbing compounds that add complexity to its taste. Tannins from the oak contribute to a drying sensation and add depth. The porous nature of the wood allows for slow oxidation, softening harsh flavors and developing fruity and floral notes.

The type of oak used also plays a role. American oak often imparts vanilla and coconut notes, while European oak can add spicy and dried fruit flavors. Many distilleries use barrels that previously held other spirits, like sherry or bourbon, which can introduce additional flavor elements.

As Scotch ages, it also loses volume due to evaporation - known as the "angel's share". This concentrates the flavors, making older whiskies generally more intense.

While age is important in Scotch production, it's not always true that older means better. Here are some common myths:

1.  Myth: Older Scotch is always superior 
Reality: Quality depends on various factors, including the cask quality and storage conditions. A well-made 12-year-old can outshine a poorly stored 25-             year-old.

2.  Myth: Age statements guarantee consistency
Reality: Age statements only indicate the youngest whiskey in the bottle. A 12-year-old Scotch might contain much older whiskies blended in.

3.  Myth: Non-age statement (NAS) whiskies are inferior
Reality: Many high-quality Scotches don't carry age statements. Skilled blending can create excellent whiskies regardless of age.

Young Scotch (3-10 years)

• Flavor Profile: More pronounced grain or malt flavors
• Intensity: Can be more fiery or spirity
• Flavor Definition: Sharper, more defined flavors
• Price: Usually less expensive
• Best Use: Great in cocktails or for those who enjoy bolder flavors

Old Scotch (18+ years)

• Flavor Profile: Smoother and more mellow
• Intensity: More complex, layered flavors
• Flavor Definition: May have stronger wood influence
• Price: Usually more expensive
• Best Use: Generally preferred for sipping neat or with a drop of water

While purists might insist on drinking Scotch neat, there's a whole world of delicious cocktails that showcase this versatile spirit.

Here are some classic Scotch cocktails:

• Rob Roy: Often called the Scotch Manhattan, it's made with Scotch, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
• Rusty Nail: A simple yet potent mix of Scotch and Drambuie (a Scotch-based liqueur).
• Blood and Sand: Named after a 1922 bullfighter movie, it combines Scotch, sweet vermouth, cherry liqueur, and orange juice.
• Penicillin: A modern classic featuring blended Scotch, lemon juice, honey-ginger syrup, and a float of peaty Islay Scotch.
• Bobby Burns: A sophisticated blend of Scotch, sweet vermouth, and Bénédictine liqueur.

If you're new to Scotch or a longtime fan looking for the best scotch whiskey, remember that there's always something new to try. Whether you prefer the smoky flavors of Islay or the fruity notes from Speyside, each Scotch has a distinct taste and story. Enjoy it neat, with water, or mixed into your favorite cocktails—there’s no wrong way to drink it.

If you want to start your own Scotch adventure or add to your collection, come visit us at Pascale's Liquors. We're at 7401 Oswego Road in Liverpool, NY. Our staff knows a lot about Scotch and loves helping customers find the right bottle.

Can't make it to the store? No problem. Give us a call at (315) 701-0781 or check out what we have on our website at www.pascalesliquor.com. Whether you're looking for a gift, a new favorite for yourself, or just want to try something different, we're here to help you find a great Scotch.