Find your way around the fascinating world of Scotch whisky using our four flavour profiles.
Whisky is a reflection of the geography, geology and climate of the place where it is made. While locally sourced raw materials impart distinctive characteristics, a human element also comes into play - the traditional craft of the whisky maker. To help you find your way around the fascinating world of Scotch whisky, Waitrose has created four flavour profiles.
Light and floral
The perfect starting point if you're new to whisky. Delicate flavours and soft, floral aromas, often with hints of fruit or grains, make this a perfect aperitif. Dalwhinnie shows how rewarding this category can be, now only £29 (was £35).
Light and smoky
Warm and mellow, but often quite complex, these whiskies have clean, grassy and cereal flavours. There's a definite smokiness to them, though it's sometimes quite subtle. Johnnie Walker, £28, displays all of these qualities.
Rich and fruity
Medium-bodied whiskies with character from the casks they're matured in - often old sherry barrels. Their warming flavours of dried fruit and nuts make them a good after dinner drink. Strathisla is one of the finest examples, now only £29 (was £35).
Rich and smoky
Robust and warming, these whiskies are known for their intense peaty smokiness, which overlays rich flavours of vanilla and fruit cake. Talisker Storm fits this profile perfectly, now only £34.50 (was £40).
This is just a sample of the extensive range of whiskies you'll find at Waitrose.
And with money saving offers on selected bottles, there's every reason to visit your local branch and enrich your collection.
Find your nearest branch at waitrose.com/scotland
Whisky cocktails
Many connoisseurs frown upon the practice of 'polluting' Scotch whisky. But now that moxologists have shown how well it blends with other flavours, whisky has become a favourite cocktail ingredient.
The Strathisla Rob Roy
Stir together 50ml Strathisla 12yo, 25ml sweet vermouth and a dash of Angostura bitters, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Johnnie Soda
Pour 25ml Johnnie Walker Black Label and 75ml soda water into a tall glass. Add lots of ice cubes and serve with a twist of lemon.
Drinkaware.co.uk for the facts
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