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Scotch Whiskey Touring

Scotch whiskey (or whisky, without the "e", as it's spelled throughout the world - except for the U.S. and Ireland) has risen to become one the country's top industries and a major tourist draw.

Small wonder, then, that among the dozens of scotch distilleries and tasting rooms now dotting the landscape, each tries its best to impress visitors with its own unique characteristics.

While non-connoisseurs may not be able to discern the differences at first, it is definitely worth the trip to mellow-out with a wee dram (or two) if only to sample an important part of Scottish history and culture.

Blended scotch & single malts

Much like the blending of several grape varietals to create a unique wine, blended scotch is made up of malt and grain whiskey to arrive at a specific taste. The most famous of these worldwide include Chivas, Dewar's, and Johnny Walker, each with their own flavor and character. For tourists, each distillery has its own professionally-launched mega tour, as well.

However, Scotch purists will tell you that you really don't know scotch until you've experienced the unique flavor and aroma of single malts found in local, less "global" distilleries. Like wine afficiandos, you can spend a lifetime of experimenting to find your favorite taste. It may be sweet, smokey, oakey, dark, light - or a combination of all of the above.

Still one of the best-selling single malts in Scotland is Glenmorangie, located in the Northern Highlands with its own pure water source, distinct distilling process, and laid back tasting room.

Americans should especially note that scotch served with ice or "on the rocks" is a foreign concept to most Scottish distillery tasting room hosts. And tis' true - as we followed their suggestion to add only a few drops of water to release as if by magic the drink's true flavor and aroma.

Touring Scotch whiskey distilleries

To sample a variety of malt whiskey distilleries travel experts suggest that first-timers follow mapped trails accomodating one or more days of traveling by car or arranged tour.

The main Speyside whiskey trail is probably the most famous and includes stops at Aberlour, Balvenie, Glenfiddich, Speyburn, Glenlivet and Macallan.

For drinking in incredible scenery as you sample the local scotch also try the West Coast whisky trail, taking in Scotland's wild and wet seaside and the incredibly beautiful Isle of Skye.

Quick distillery trips

If your Scotland trip is limited to Edinburgh, you're still in luck with an entire education (as well as tastings) at the Scottish Whisky Heritage Centre where family-friendly audio-visual and interactive displays tells the story. To sample the genuine article in authentic surroundings, a day trip to nearby Glenkinchie Distillery is only 15 miles southeast of the city.

The Glasgow area also provides one of the best experiences for first timers at Glengoyne Distillery, 12 miles north of the city center, surrounded by picture-perfect surroundings while producing one of the more subtle tastes for scotch newbies.

More about Scotch whiskey on the Web:

• Scotch Whisky Distilleries, Scotland - the complete tour.

• Glossary of Scotch tasting terms - expound intelligentlly at your next distillery tour.

• Malt Madness - about single malt scotch whiskey - for true aficionados.

• Scotch Whisky Association - everything you always wanted to know about scotch.

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