Definition

Feb 7, 2024

Whisky Words: Esters

Esters are one of the groups of flavour compounds that we find in malt whisky. You create an ester by combining an acid with an alcohol, and these esters then give you the fruity, floral aromas that we can get in some Scotch whisky.

Feb 7, 2024

Whisky Words: Barrel

A barrel is a type of cask. It's used for making bourbon and it holds 200 litres of spirit. And it's always made from American oak.

Jan 29, 2024

Whisky Words: Husk

Vic Cameron, one of our whisky lecturers says: “Husk is one of the components of the barleycorn. It's the outer protective shell that protects the whole corn."

Jan 22, 2024

Whisky Words: Quaich

Vic Cameron, one of our whisky lecturers says: “A quaich is a small two handled drinking vessel that you can drink whisky out of. It used to be used for friendship ceremonies and it can be used at weddings for joining the two families.

Jan 16, 2024

Whisky Words: Caramel Colouring

Caramel colouring refers to the addition of E150a, a colour compound, which can be used in the Scotch whisky industry for consistency of colour.

Jan 10, 2024

Whisky Words: Pagoda

Vic Cameron, one of our whisky lecturers explains: “A pagoda is the roof of a kiln that enhances natural ventilation. It used to be in every distillery, there'd be a kiln and a pagoda roof. It was invented by Charles Doig, and the first one was built at Dailuaine distillery on Speyside.”

Jan 3, 2024

Congeners

Congeners are an important concept to understand if you love Scotch whisky because they significantly influence the flavour, aroma and overall character of the whisky.