Well, what's your whisky? It can be a difficult question to answer, given the variety of whisky in the world, but finding out is half the fun. The beauty of whisky is that every batch is different and the final flavour is affected during every part of the process, from where the water is sourced, to how the grain is dried, to which barrels are used to mature the whisky. Have those barrels been charred? And what was in them before the whisky? Every region does it differently, which means there's a whisky out there for everyone. The first step to finding yours? Understanding the flavour profiles.
Flavour Profile: Smoky
Smoky flavours are typically associated with whisky from Islay, an island off Scotland's west coast. The flavours range from a subtle, cigar-like or earthy smokiness to a big, peaty richness that can taste like you're sipping a campfire. Though those new to whisky may be put off by the smokiness, these whiskies are a really rewarding drinking experience once you get a taste for them.
Flavour Profile: Spicy
Spice up your life with a whisky characterised by either sweet, warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, or a strong peppery bite that kicks the back of the throat. The spice is a result of oak barrels, with flavours being affected by both the type of wood – American or European oak – as well as what was stored in the barrel before the whisky was matured. A bourbon cask will make for a sweeter spice, while something like a sherry or port cask offers more of a bite.
Flavour Profile: Fruity
Who's feeling fruity? It doesn't matter whether you go bananas over tropical fruits or prefer the zesty zip of citrus, there's a whisky that'll fit the bill. Ripe or raw, cooked or candied, these fruit flavours are often found in Speyside whiskies and present the perfect entry point for those beginning their whisky journey.
Flavour Profile: Delicate
That's right, a whisky can be even described as delicate. Subtlety and elegance are key here, with floral, grassy notes, or perhaps a nuttiness or caramel flavour, running the show. Make no mistake, these whiskies are still complex and rewarding, they're just not as 'in your face' as their counterparts.




























