Cocktails with Scotch Whisky
Scotch whisky is Scotland's iconic spirit, aged at least three years in oak barrels. Styles range from light and floral to intensely smoky depending on region.
No Scotch Whisky? What to use instead
- Type
- Spirit
- Strength
- 40–46% ABV
- Aroma
- Malt, Honey, Heather, Fruit, Light smoke
- Taste
- Malty, Honey, Vanilla, Fruit, Oak
- Finish
- Warming, Complex, Medium to long
15 drinks with Scotch Whisky
- AffinityDry Vermouth, Sweet Vermouth, Angostura Bitters
- Blood & SandCherry Heering, Sweet Vermouth, Orange Juice
- Bobby BurnsSweet Vermouth, Bénédictine
- Camerons KickIrish Whiskey, Lemon Juice, Orgeat
- God FatherAmaretto
- Hot ToddyHoney Syrup, Lemon Juice, Water
- Mamie TaylorLime Juice, Ginger Beer
- Morning Glory FizzLemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Egg White
- PenicillinLemon Juice, Honey Ginger Syrup, Islay Scotch
- PresbyterianSoda Water, Ginger Ale
- Rob RoySweet Vermouth, Angostura Bitters
- Rusty NailDrambuie
- Scotch & SodaSoda Water
- Scotch SourLemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Egg White
- Whisky MacGinger Wine
History
Whisky has been distilled in Scotland since at least the 15th century. The modern scotch industry developed in the 19th century with the invention of the column still and the blending of malt and grain whiskies. Each region—Highland, Lowland, Speyside, Islay, and Campbeltown—has distinct characteristics.
How it’s made
Made from malted barley (single malt) or a blend of malt and grain whiskies. The barley may be dried over peat fires, adding smokiness. Aged in used oak casks (often bourbon or sherry) for a minimum of three years in Scotland. Single malts come from one distillery.
Bottles to try
Johnnie Walker Black LabelMid-range
Well-balanced blended scotch with smoke, fruit, and vanilla. Excellent for mixing.
Glenfiddich 12Mid-range
Speyside single malt with pear, oak, and subtle sweetness. The world's best-selling single malt.
Monkey ShoulderMid-range
Blended malt scotch designed for mixing, smooth with vanilla and spice.
Johnnie Walker RedBudget
Blended Scotch, smoky and spicy, world's best-selling.
Dewar's 12 YearMid-range
Smooth blended Scotch, honey and fruit notes.
Glenlivet 12Premium
Speyside single malt, fruity and floral, approachable premium.
Got Scotch Whisky at home?
Add it to your bar in Proof and see every drink you can make with the bottles you already have.