Understanding Whisky Styles

From traditional methods to modern innovation, whiskey styles shape everything from flavor to feel in the glass. Here's how to navigate the landscape:

Single Malt

Whisky made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery. Known for richness, depth, and a strong sense of place—especially in Scotland and Japan.

Try It If You Like
Complex red wines, craft beer, roasted or nutty flavors

Blended Whisky

A mix of different malt and/or grain whiskies, often crafted for balance, smoothness, and versatility. Common in Scotland, Japan, and Canada.

Try It If You Like
Blended red wines, cocktails, mellow oak and vanilla

Single Grain

Whisky made at a single distillery but using other grains (like corn or wheat) in addition to or instead of barley. Lighter in style, often used in blends or as a soft sipper.

Try It If You Like
Bourbon, soft spirits, highball cocktails

Pot Still

Ireland Only
A uniquely Irish style made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley in copper pot stills. Creamy, spicy, and rich with a signature texture.

Try It If You Like
Creamier spirits, oatmeal stout, buttered toast

Peated Whisky

Smoky, earthy whisky made by drying barley over peat fires—most famously from Islay, but also in India, Sweden, and elsewhere.

Try It If You Like
Smoky mezcal, char-grilled meats, bold reds

Cask Strength

Whisky bottled at full barrel proof, without dilution. Intensely flavorful and often high in alcohol—best enjoyed slowly, sometimes with a splash of water.

Try It If You Like
Bold spirits, espresso, dark chocolate

Cask-Finished

Whiskies aged in one type of barrel (usually bourbon) and then finished in another—like sherry, wine, rum, or port—for added complexity.

Try It If You Like
Dessert wines, spiced desserts, flavor-layered cocktails