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Adelphi Highland Malt 10y 2026 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi Highland Malt 10y 2026 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi Highland Malt 10y 2026 belongs to Adelphi's Regional Range, a series created to bring Scotland's whisky regions into focus through carefully composed releases. The emphasis here is very much on the spirit itself, in line with Adelphi's stated philosophy.
For this second batch of the Highland 10 Years Old, Adelphi selected Clynelish and worked with a small parcel of bourbon barrels. Bottled at 46%, it keeps the whisky approachable while preserving the fruit, elegance and waxy texture highlighted in the product information as part of the Clynelish signature.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a fine example of why independent bottlings can be so rewarding: they offer a clear view of a distillery style through the lens of a careful bottler, without (…)Adelphi's Highland Malt 10y (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Highland Malt 10y (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Highland Malt 10y is a Scottish single malt from Teaninich distillery in the Northern Highlands. As part of Adelphi's Regional Range, it feels very much like a bottling chosen for its sense of place and distillery character rather than for broad commercial styling.
Matured for 10 years in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, it brings together gentle malt, light fruit and a restrained sherry influence. The wood remains supportive rather than dominant, helped by Adelphi's careful cask selection. Bottled at 46%, without chill filtration and without added colouring, it keeps close to the natural profile of the whisky.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we like releases such as this because they show how nuanced a Highland single malt can be when it is (…)Adelphi's Islay Malt 10y Batch 2 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Islay Malt 10y Batch 2 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Islay Malt 10y Batch 2 brings together a distinctly maritime Islay spirit and the darker influence of Oloroso sherry casks. For this second batch, Adelphi returns to Caol Ila, described in the supplied information as one of the most consistent distilleries in the world, known here for a powerful, coastal and lightly meaty distillate.
The Oloroso casks add depth rather than disguise the whisky's Islay identity. Smoke, dark fruit and tannic structure sit side by side, giving this 10-year-old single malt a rich yet approachable feel. Bottled at 46%, it has enough presence to carry the peat and sherry influence without becoming overstated.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Islay bottling we like to introduce when someone wants more than peat (…)Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Blend (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Blend (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Blend is a blended Scotch built around selected malt and grain whiskies matured in bourbon and sherry casks. The emphasis is not on showy intensity, but on a dependable, well-composed style with an easy flow.
What gives this blend its appeal is Adelphi's approach. It is bottled with the same care the bottler applies to its single malts, so the whisky feels considered rather than anonymous. Fruit, gentle vanilla, light malt and soft wood notes form the core of its character.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Scotch blend we place in front of someone looking for a smooth, neatly made whisky with a touch of cask influence and no need for complication. With only the last bottles remaining, it is also a release that is (…)Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Peated (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Peated (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Peated is a Scottish blended whisky put together from selected malt and grain whiskies sourced from different distilleries across Scotland. Its identity comes from the peated element in the blend, including whisky from the islands, bringing smoke and a maritime edge to the glass.
Adelphi assembles this in small batches, keeping the focus on a hands-on, carefully judged style. Bottling at 46% without chill filtration supports that idea: the whisky keeps its direct smoky nature rather than being softened into something overly polished.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a compelling choice for those who enjoy a peated Scottish blend with a clear coastal accent, gentle grain notes and a firmer smoky line. With the last (…)Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Peated Batch 2 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Peated Batch 2 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Private Stock Reserve Peated Batch 2 is a Scottish blended whisky built from selected malt and grain whiskies drawn from different distilleries across Scotland. Part of the whisky used comes from the islands, giving the blend its smoky, peated edge while still keeping the broader structure of a blended whisky.
The strength of this release lies in Adelphi's small-batch approach. Rather than feeling like a standard blend, it carries the sense of a carefully composed whisky, bottled at 46% and without chill filtration. That keeps the presentation close to the style Adelphi wants to show in this Regional Range bottling.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a good choice for drinkers who enjoy peat smoke but also appreciate the added dimension that (…)Adelphi's Speyside Malt 10y (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Speyside Malt 10y (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Speyside Malt 10y is a Scottish single malt with a clear focus on the softer, fruit-led side of Speyside. The whisky comes from Glen Elgin distillery, in the heart of the region, and is bottled by Adelphi as part of its Regional Range. Bottled in small batches, it feels more like a carefully selected view of Speyside than a broad regional label.
The 10 years of maturation in bourbon casks and refill sherry casks are handled with restraint. The cask influence supports the spirit rather than covering it: fruit comes first, followed by vanilla, light honey and a quiet touch of oak. The refill sherry element adds dried-fruit depth without pushing the whisky into a heavier style.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Speyside malt we like for its (…)Adelphi's Speyside Malt 10y Batch 2 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Speyside Malt 10y Batch 2 (Adelphi's Regional Range)
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Adelphi's Speyside Malt 10y Batch 2 gives this regional release a very specific Speyside voice. For the second batch, Adelphi selected Linkwood, whereas the first batch came from Glen Elgin. That shift gives this edition its own place within Adelphi's Regional Range.
The refill sherry casks play a supporting role rather than dominating the whisky. They bring a gentle sherry influence and a light touch of wood, while leaving room for the floral and fruity side of the spirit. Bottled at 46%, it keeps a rounded, approachable feel without losing the maturity of its ten years.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we particularly like the way this bottling avoids heaviness. It is more about elegance: orchard fruit, blossom, a little dried fruit and soft wood in the (…)Akkeshi 2018 3y (Adelphi)
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Akkeshi 2018 3y (Adelphi)
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Akkeshi 2018 3y is a young Japanese single malt with a remarkably vivid personality. Distilled at Akkeshi and bottled by Adelphi, it comes from a single bourbon barrel and was released at natural cask strength: 57.7%. That gives the whisky a direct, energetic feel, very close to the individual cask it came from.
Its appeal lies in the contrast between youth and intensity. The tasting information points to a distinctly coastal style, with saline smoke, yuzu-like citrus, wild honey and damp peat alongside fresh fruit. It is not a broad, anonymous release; it is a focused single cask snapshot.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are valued because they show a very specific side of a distillery. With only 265 bottles drawn and the final bottles now in (…)Ardnamurchan 2014 10y (Adelphi)
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Ardnamurchan 2014 10y (Adelphi)
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Ardnamurchan 2014 10y is a Highland single malt with a clear sense of place and timing. The distillery is based in the western Highlands of Scotland and was founded in 2014, the same year this whisky was distilled. That gives this bottling a direct connection to the early years of a modern distillery built around both Scottish whisky tradition and a more contemporary way of working.
Sustainability is an important part of Ardnamurchan's identity. The distillery uses renewable energy and environmentally conscious practices while focusing on high-quality single malt whisky. It is supported by Adelphi, an independent company established in 1993 and known for its expertise in selecting and bottling rare, limited whiskies.
This 10-year-old release comes from a (…)Arran 2014 11y (Adelphi)
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Arran 2014 11y (Adelphi)
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Arran 2014 11 Year Old is a notable return for Arran after years of absence. This unpeated Scotch single malt from the Isle of Arran brings together Oloroso Sherry richness and a fresh island character, giving the whisky depth without moving into a smoky style.
Drawn from a single cask, distilled in 2014 and bottled in 2025 after 11 years of maturation, it represents one very specific cask rather than a broad house-style release. Only 318 bottles were produced, and at 57.6% cask strength it keeps its natural intensity firmly intact. The Oloroso influence gives the whisky its generous, darker-fruited side, while the profile still leaves room for freshness and lift.
For Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottling that adds real character to a specialist (…)Arran Peated 2014 10y (Adelphi)
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Arran Peated 2014 10y (Adelphi)
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Arran Peated 2014 10y shows a more smoky, forceful side of Arran while still keeping the soft touch of bourbon maturation close at hand. This single malt from the Isle of Arran matured in a first fill bourbon barrel, giving its peated island character a gentler vanilla-led counterpoint.
As a single cask release bottled at cask strength, 57.1%, it feels deliberately specific rather than broadly polished. Only 230 bottles were drawn from this cask, making it a focused snapshot of one barrel's development. At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are valued because they let the cask speak clearly, without hiding the details that make it individual.
The peat is clearly present, supported by a malty core, a lightly salty edge and a long dry smoky finish. It (…)Ben Nevis 2013 11y (Adelphi)
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Ben Nevis 2013 11y (Adelphi)
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Ben Nevis 2013 11y is a Highland single malt with a firm, expressive presence. Distilled at Ben Nevis in 2013 and bottled in 2025 by Adelphi, it comes at cask strength with an alcohol level of 59.9%.
The whisky matured in a refill Oloroso sherry butt, giving it a rich and structured feel while still leaving room for the forceful Ben Nevis character to come through. Ripe fruit, wood and spice form the main lines of the whisky rather than a soft or polished style.
As a single cask release, only 624 bottles were drawn. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottling we place with care: direct, limited and very much shaped by one individual cask.
The aroma brings ripe fruit together with sherry notes and wood. On the palate it is intense yet (…)Benrinnes 2011 14y (Adelphi)
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Benrinnes 2011 14y (Adelphi)
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Benrinnes 2011 14y is a Speyside single malt with a clear cask-led identity. Matured in a refill Oloroso sherry hogshead and bottled at cask strength, it keeps close to the individual cask from which it came.
The appeal here lies in the combination of 14 years of maturation, a firm natural strength of 56.2% and the rich, full character associated in the supplied information with Benrinnes' partly triple distillation process. The refill sherry cask adds room for wood influence, soft spice and a restrained dried-fruit side rather than turning the whisky into a broad, generic sherry style.
As a single cask release of 282 bottles, now down to the last bottles, it has a naturally limited character. Within the Drankenshop Broekmans whisky selection, this is the (…)Benrinnes 2012 14y (Adelphi)
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Benrinnes 2012 14y (Adelphi)
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Benrinnes is presented here in one of its most convincing forms: full-bodied Speyside single malt with real weight and an oily texture. This Benrinnes 2012 14y is not built around lightness or easy sweetness, but around depth, structure and the naturally robust character associated with the distillery.
Selected by Adelphi, it comes from a single cask and was bottled at cask strength, 58.3% ABV. Maturation in a refill butt with Oloroso sherry influence gives the whisky support without letting the wood dominate. That leaves room for the distillate itself, with ripe fruit, malt and gentle spice at the centre of the experience.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this are valued because they show a very specific snapshot of one cask rather than a polished (…)Blair Athol 2013 12y (Adelphi)
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Blair Athol 2013 12y (Adelphi)
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Blair Athol 2013 12y presents a fresh, fruit-led side of this Highland distillery from Pitlochry. Blair Athol is known for a rich, malty style, yet this cask selected by Adelphi brings forward a more elegant and finely drawn expression of the spirit.
Matured for 12 years in a First Fill Bourbon Barrel and bottled at cask strength, 58.3%, it has the directness and concentration one expects from a single cask release. The bourbon barrel adds creaminess, vanilla and depth, while the distillery character remains clearly in view.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Highland single malt we like to introduce to customers who enjoy whiskies with a clear sense of origin and cask identity. As one individual cask with the last bottles now available, it (…)Chichibu 2018 6y (Adelphi) Incl. Box
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Chichibu 2018 6y (Adelphi) Incl. Box
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Chichibu 2018 6y is a Japanese single malt where the limited nature of the release is central to its appeal. Drawn from a single cask and bottled at cask strength, it was released in a run of just 210 bottles. Rather than presenting a broad house style, it captures one very specific cask from Chichibu's maturation.
Distilled in Japan in 2018, it matured in a first fill bourbon barrel. The whisky is unpeated, so the emphasis moves away from smoke and towards purity, finesse, fruit-driven character and a clear spicy side. The wood influence is present, but it plays a supporting role rather than dominating the whisky.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this bottle sits in the selection as a precise and limited Chichibu release for drinkers who appreciate Japanese single (…)Clynelish 2015 9y (Adelphi)
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Clynelish 2015 9y (Adelphi)
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Clynelish 2015 9y is a Highland single malt with a very clear identity: one cask, bottled at cask strength, matured in a refill Oloroso sherry butt. What makes that particularly engaging is the way the cask sits alongside the typical waxy Clynelish style rather than pushing it into the background.
The whisky brings together wood, spice and fruit in a measured way, supported by the sherry cask influence and the natural strength of 54.5%. It feels like a bottling built around detail: a specific cask, a defined age, and a distillery style that remains part of the conversation.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of release we like to present to customers who enjoy single cask whisky with a clear sense of origin. With 477 bottles and an exclusive export (…)Dailuaine 2010 15y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2010 15y (Adelphi)
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This Dailuaine presents Speyside in a fuller, more muscular style. The distillate has the weight to stand up to an expressive sherry cask, and Adelphi selected a 2010 single cask for this 15-year-old release, matured entirely in a First Fill Pedro Ximénez hogshead.
The PX influence deepens the whisky rather than simply sweetening it. It brings out dark fruit, chocolate and warm spice around Dailuaine's naturally robust core. Bottled at cask strength, 56.7%, it keeps that sense of concentration and directness in the glass.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to point out when someone is looking for Speyside with real weight and sherried richness. As a single cask with the last bottles remaining, it also has the appeal of a (…)Dailuaine 2013 12y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2013 12y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2013 12y is a Speyside single malt built around the individuality of one cask. Distilled in 2013 and bottled in 2025 after 12 years of maturation, it comes from a refill Oloroso sherry hogshead. Rather than presenting a broad house style, this release gives a focused view of one particular cask and its development.
The refill sherry cask adds depth while keeping the distillery's full, spicy character clearly in view. Bottling at cask strength, 53.5%, gives the whisky a direct and unfiltered feel in terms of presentation. With 265 bottles drawn and the last bottles now indicated, it is a release with a naturally limited window of availability.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this Dailuaine sits well among the single cask whiskies for drinkers who (…)Dailuaine 2015 10y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2015 10y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2015 10y is a Speyside single malt with a generous, malty core and a clear emphasis on ripe fruit. Bottled at cask strength, 58%, it keeps a firm presence in the glass while still showing the roundness that comes from maturation.
The refill PX hogshead plays an important role here. It adds sweetness, depth and fruit-driven warmth, but it does not cover the distillery character. That balance between malt structure and gentle sherry influence is what makes this Dailuaine particularly engaging.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we would point out to someone looking for a powerful Speyside with body, softness and a fruit-rich profile. With only the last bottles remaining, it is also a release to discover while it is still within (…)Dailuaine 2015 10y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2015 10y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine is one of those Speyside distilleries that often sits slightly away from the spotlight, which makes a carefully chosen independent bottling all the more appealing. This 2015 Dailuaine was selected by Adelphi and matured for 10 years in a first-fill Pedro Ximenez cask.
The cask brings the whisky into a fruit-led, honeyed register, supported by gentle spice and a creamy impression. Bottled at 55.4% cask strength, it keeps its full presence in the glass, while still retaining the elegance associated with its Speyside origin.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we value bottlings like this because they show a very specific side of a distillery rather than a broad house style. As a single cask release drawn from only a few hundred bottles, now down to the last (…)Dalmore 2015 9y (Adelphi)
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Dalmore 2015 9y (Adelphi)
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Dalmore 2015 9y shows a more direct side of Highland single malt: one cask, bottled at natural cask strength, with the distillate kept firmly in focus. It matured in a first fill bourbon American Standard Barrel, a choice that supports the whisky without taking away its clear, malt-driven identity.
At 59.1% and with only 238 bottles drawn from the cask, this is a compact release rather than a regular house expression. The story here is about a specific barrel and a specific moment in maturation, with bourbon cask influence, youthful energy and a clean whisky character all sitting close together.
For Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Dalmore that adds depth to a whisky selection: not because it tries to be everything at once, but because it gives a (…)Glasgow Dis 2016 10y (Adelphi)
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Glasgow Dis 2016 10y (Adelphi)
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Glasgow Distillery is one of Scotland's younger distilleries, founded in 2014 and already recognised for its modern outlook and strong quality focus. This 10-year-old single malt captures that contemporary spirit in a bold, clearly defined style.
Selected by Adelphi, this release is among the very first independent 10-year-old Glasgow whiskies. At Drankenshop Broekmans, that makes it stand out: a single cask bottling, drawn at cask strength from a Virgin Oak Hogshead. The cask brings depth, spice and a pronounced wood influence, while the distillery character remains elegant and distinct.
Bottled at 58.1%, it is a powerful Lowland single malt rather than a gentle one. With only the last bottles remaining, this is a particularly interesting way to taste an (…)
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about whisky
What is whisky?
Whisky is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains (such as barley, corn, rye or wheat) and then aged in wooden casks, usually oak. The result is a complex drink with aromas that can range from fruity and floral to smoky, spicy or woody.
Generally speaking, a drink must meet the following basic requirements to be called whisky:
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Made from grains
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Fermented with yeast
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Distilled to a maximum of ±94.8% alcohol (so that flavour is retained)
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Matured in wooden casks
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Bottled with a minimum of 40% alcohol
Which whisky is tasty?
Which whisky is good? Which whisky is good? The answer to these questions is so specific and so personal that we cannot possibly answer them for everyone. In our range of whisky you will find more than 3,000 bottlings, each with their own taste and profile, to objectively identify a universal "good whisky" is impossible.
You can look for the whisky you like in different ways. Either you start from whisky with a fairly flat and neutral flavour profile and expand and explore from there, but other enthusiasts prefer to start at the extremes to quickly discover what they absolutely do not like. We would not recommend that second approach, as whisky with a distinct character is often an "aqcuired taste", something you gradually work towards and often learn to develop an appreciation for as you build your palate.
Are you looking for a whisky for someone else and have no idea what they drink and what they like? If so, limit yourself to whisky with a light and balanced flavour profile. With most of our whisky, you will find a flavour profile where the whisky is rated from 0 to 3 on six basic pillars: peaty, spicy, salty, woody, floral and fruity. If you blindly buy a whisky for someone else, limit yourself to whisky where none of the six pillars slip through. If you do know what kind of whisky the lucky person drinks, then with a bit of luck, you can also find that whisky in our range and from there you can look for other whiskies that have a similar flavour profile.
Is whisky Scotch or Irish?
Both Scotland and Ireland claim the origins of whisky, and both countries have a rich history of distilling it. The earliest written mention of whisky comes from Ireland, from the 12th century. But Scotland has brought the art of whisky making to perfection and today is famous worldwide for its whiskies. Ultimately, whisky is both Scottish and Irish, each with its own unique traditions and flavours.
What is Scotch whisky?
In addition to the basic rules to speak of whisky, there are a number of additional conditions for Scotch whisky.
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Must be wholly produced and matured in Scotland
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Aged for at least 3 years in oak casks
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Only water and caramel colour (E150a) may be added
Which Scottish regions are famous for their whisky?
Scotland is divided into a number of regions, each of which makes its own signature whisky. Exactly how many there are depends on how accurately you want to describe them.
On the Scottish mainland, we talk about
- Highland (Ben Nevis, Ardnamurchan, Edradour, ...)
- Lowland (Johnny Cree, Lochlea, Auchentoshan, ...)
- Campbeltown (Springbank, Kilkerran, Longrow, ...)
- Speyside (Benriach, Tomintoul, Glenglassaugh, ...)
As the first island, Islay is always mentioned separately. From Islay come mainly peated whiskies such as Bowmore, Port Ellen, Bruichladdich and Ardbeg.
You will also find a number of islands around Scotland, called the "Islands". Within that group, another distinction is often made between
- Isle of Arran
- Isle of Harris
- Jura
- Mull (Ledaig, Tobermory, ...)
- Orkney (Highland Park, Scapa, ...)
- Skye (Talisker, ...)
What is Irish whiskey?
To speak of Irish whiskey, the drink must meet a number of additional conditions.
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Produced and matured in Ireland
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Aged for at least 3 years in wooden casks
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Often triple-distilled, but this is not compulsory
What is American whiskey?
American whiskey is also again subject to a number of specific rules, in addition to the basic guidelines to speak of whiskey.
For bourbon whiskey:
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At least 51% corn in the grain mix
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Matured in new charred oak barrels
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Distilled to a maximum of 80% alcohol
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In the barrel a maximum of 62.5% alcohol
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No additives allowed (except water)
For rye whiskey, at least 51% rye must be used.
Tennessee whiskey follows the same guidelines as bourbon, but must be filtered through charcoal.
What is the difference between "whisky" and "whiskey"
The difference in terminology is related to the country of origin. In principle, "whiskey" is always referred to, except when spirits from the United States or Ireland are involved. In those countries, the term "whiskey" is consistently used.
What is the difference between single malt, blended and grain whisky?
Single malt whisky comes from a single distillery and is made exclusively from malted barley. These whiskies often have a distinct and characterful flavour profile. Blended whisky is a mix of different whiskies (both malt and grain) and tends to be softer and more approachable. Grain whisky is made from other grains such as corn or wheat and is often used in blends, but also exists as a separate bottling with a lighter style.
What is a "no age statement" whisky?
If a whisky is marked "NAS" or "No Age Statement", it means that no age is stated on the bottle.
When an age is mentioned on the bottle, it must, according to the rules, always be the youngest whisky in the blend and not the age that is most represented percentage-wise in the blend. A producer will therefore deliberately choose not to state an age on his bottle in two cases: when an old whisky is blended with a small proportion of younger whisky, or when young whisky is blended with a proportion of older whisky. In the first case, he does not want to put a young age on his bottle if his blend contains mainly older whisky, and in the second case, marketing-wise it is more interesting to go out with that particle of older whisky.
What is a "single cask" whisky?
A single cask means that the whisky in the bottle comes from only one cask and was not blended with another whisky from another cask. Because the content comes from a single cask, the number of bottles depends on the size of the cask and the evaporation of the product (the so-called Angel's Share), the number of bottles is limited (and often numbered) and no new bottles of this specific reference come onto the market. A single cask is thus always unique in flavour and profile, and never quite comparable to similar bottles that do not come from the same cask.
What is a whisky at "cask strength" ?
A cask strength whisky is not diluted with water before bottling, but goes straight from the cask into the bottle and therefore retains the alcohol percentage during/after cask maturation. One of the advantages of cask strength whisky is that as a drinker you can decide how strong you like your whisky by diluting or not diluting it with a little water yourself according to your preference, rather than the producer having already done this for you. Cask Strength whisky has a higher alcohol content and this can sometimes suppress the subtlety of the whisky.
What does the term non-chill filtered mean?
The term non-chill filtered, or well-known variations of it such as "unchilled filtered" or "not cold filtered", indicates that the spirit was not cold filtered before bottling. During cold filtration ("chill filtration"), the whisky is cooled to around freezing point and then filtered. This process removes certain substances from the spirit such as fatty acids, proteins and esters.
Whisky that does not undergo that specific filtering process has a number of specific properties: they often have more character, the mouthfeel is fuller and oilier and more flavour compounds are retained. Because they have more body, they often feel creamier on the palate and the aromas are more intense. The disadvantage of skipping cold filtering is that the whisky can be cloudier.
Most whisky on the market is chill filtered because it produces a clear and consistent spirit in the bottle and in the glass, even with the addition of ice or water. That consistency leads to better presentation and less chance of consumer complaints. Unchill filtered whisky is especially popular with aficionados and purists for the same reason, because they know and understand why their whisky is the way it is. For this reason, "chill filtered" is usually not explicitly stated, but "unchill filtered" is.
What is a peated whisky?
The term "peat", often also described as "smoky", "smoked" or "peated" is part of the flavour profile that is very typical and recognisable in whisky.
Peated whisky evokes scents of a seaside campfire, a smoky charcoal grill, and sometimes even medicinal, salty notes reminiscent of the Scottish coast. These whiskies have a depth and character that either enchant or terrify aficionados.
Peat is an organic material made up of compressed plant remains, formed over centuries in boggy areas. In Scotland, where peated whisky originated, peat has traditionally been used as a fuel. This later became an integral part of the whisky-making process and resulted in the unique smoky flavour these whiskies are known for.
The distinctive flavour of peated whisky is created in the malt phase of whisky production. Barley is first soaked in water and then spread out to germinate. During this process, the barley begins to develop sugars that are later needed for fermentation. Once the barley starts germinating, drying is interrupted by a fire of burning peat. The smoke soaks into the barley and impregnates it with phenols - the chemical compounds responsible for the smoky flavour.
Which whisky suits my taste (sweet, smoky, fruity...)?
Whisky can be roughly categorised by flavour profiles. Do you like sweet? Then go for whiskies with notes of vanilla, caramel or honey (often matured in bourbon casks). Prefer fruity? Choose Speyside or Irish whiskies with fresh apple and citrus aromas. If you are a fan of powerful, smoky flavours, then Islay whiskies are a good choice. Those who like spicy or woody notes may look more towards whiskies with sherry barrel maturation.
Which whisky is good for beginners?
For beginners, accessible, smooth whiskies without too much smoke or complexity are ideal. Think fruity and slightly sweet styles, such as many Irish whiskies or soft Scottish Speyside whiskies. These often have notes of apple, honey and vanilla and are easy to drink. Avoid strongly smoky (peated) whiskies at first, as that flavour is too intense for some. From there, you can gradually discover which styles suit you best.
Which whisky makes a good gift?
A good gift whisky is usually a safe, accessible choice that will appeal to many people. For example, choose a well-known single malt with a smooth and balanced profile, or a nice bottle in a gift box.
Do you know the recipient's tastes? Then you can choose more specifically: a smoky whisky for lovers of powerful flavours, or a fruity and mellow variant for beginners. In doubt? Then you will always be right with a classic, non-smoky whisky.
What does the designation PPM mean in a whisky?
The abbreviation PPM is used to describe the intensity of the peat flavour in a peated whisky. The abbreviation PPM stands for Phenol Parts Per Million, and the higher the number the more intense the peat flavour is. A whisky with 10 PPM has a subtle smoky character while a whisky with 50 PPM or higher can be a real smoke bomb.
How strong is whisky?
When people talk about the "strength" of liquor, they usually mean its alcohol content (ABV).
Whisky is a regulated product, meaning that a number of conditions must be met before the final product can be called "whisky". One of the rules is the minimum alcohol content: in the EU (including Scotch and Irish whiskey), the US and Canada, whisky must contain a minimum of 40% alcohol by volume to be called whisky.
Many standard bottlings are around 40-43%, some quality or "non-chill filtered" releases choose 46% ABV. In the US, bourbon and rye are also common at 45-50% ABV (e.g. Bottled-in-Bond at 50%). In Japan, 40-43% is common. "Cask strength" or "barrel proof" whiskies are bottled undiluted and are therefore higher in strength: usually between about 50% and 65%. Regional exceptions exist, such as India where many whiskies are bottled around 42.8% ABV,
For average commercial whiskies, 40-46% is the normal range, and you will find most whiskies within that range.
What does the designation "proof" mean in whisky?
You may also have seen "proof" written on bottles, for example "100 proof". It is an alternative way of indicating the strength of whisky and is only used in the US today. The formula is thankfully simple; the "proof" value is actually double the alcohol content (ABV). In other words, a bottle of "100 proof" corresponds to 50% alcohol.
What is meant by "small batch"?
"Small batch" is a term indicating that the whisky was produced in relatively small quantities per batch (production run). Instead of huge volumes being mixed continuously, the distiller selected only a limited number of casks or ingredients to bring together. The idea behind it is to have more control over quality, flavour and consistency, for example by blending a few carefully chosen casks to achieve a specific flavour profile.
Small Batch often suggests craftsmanship and attention to detail, but it is not a strictly regulated term. So there is no set definition of exactly how much "small" is, and it can vary greatly from producer to producer.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive whisky?
The price difference is often in factors such as ageing time, casks used, production method and rarity. More expensive whiskies have usually matured for longer or come from special casks, providing more complexity and depth. However, this does not mean that a more expensive whisky is always "tastier". Taste remains personal, and there are also affordable whiskies of excellent quality that perfectly suit your preference.
What does the age on a whisky bottle mean?
The age on a whisky bottle indicates the minimum time the whisky has been aged in cask. In blends, this means that the youngest whisky in the blend is that age.
During that maturation, the whisky develops its flavour, colour and aromas. The longer the ageing, the more influence the cask has on the final result.
Which whisky is suitable as an investment?
If you are looking for a bottle as an investment, the references we refer to as "Collector" are often a good choice. However, it is no guarantee of success, some bottles rise in values, others do not and in a few cases a sudden hype drives the price up suddenly. For this reason, always keep Jan Broekmans' own advice in mind: don't buy whisky as an investment that you would never want to drink yourself. If the price doesn't go up, at least you'll still have the pleasure of drinking them yourself.
Is older whisky always better?
Not necessary. Older whisky can be more complex and softer, but sometimes loses fresh or fruity characteristics. Quality depends on many factors, such as the cask and the conditions in which the whisky matures.
Ultimately, "better" is a matter of taste. Some younger whiskies can be surprisingly lively and full of character, perfectly matching what you are looking for.
Does whisky mature further in the bottle?
No, whisky matures only in cask. Once the whisky is bottled, the maturation process stops completely.
In principle, the flavour remains stable, although an opened bottle can change slightly after a long time due to contact with oxygen. This is why it is best to store whisky tightly sealed and out of direct sunlight.
Is whisky going bad?
Whisky is a strong drink with a high alcohol content, which means it has a virtually unlimited shelf life. If you have a bottle of whisky that is properly sealed, you can keep it for years, even decades, without its taste or quality deteriorating. However, the flavour can change if the whisky is exposed to light, air or temperature fluctuations. If there is too much air in the bottle relative to liquid then "oxidation" can also occur, directly affecting its flavour and intensity.
So an open bottle of whisky will often lose some of its aromas over time, but it will not "go bad".
Make sure you store your bottle in a cool, dark place and seal it well after each use, and that the bottle is always at least a quarter full (the less air there is in the bottle, the less oxidation can occur). Leftovers are best poured into smaller sample bottles that can be sealed well from the outside air (apothecary bottles are ideal, glass decanters are not), or you can artificially fill the original bottle with, say, marbles to reduce the volume of air in the bottle.
What is an independent bottler?
Independent bottlers are entrepreneurs who buy whisky from existing distilleries and then bottle or blend it themselves. They are not involved in the actual production process, but they take care of the further development of the whisky. This means they select the casks themselves and decide how long the whisky matures, in order to create a unique final product.
Some whiskies are sold exclusively to independent bottlers and are not used for the original distillery's range. Examples of such bottlers include Signatory, Douglas Laing, and Cadenhead's.
There are also 'secret bottlings', where the bottler does not reveal which distillery the casks come from.
Independent bottlings are usually single casks. They are often not coloured, are usually non-chill filtered and very limited in availability, which only makes the product more unique. This constitutes a delightful change from regular whiskies, you could say.
In which glass do you pour whisky?
The classic glass in which whisky is very often poured is called a tumbler. This is a low, straight and wide glass. Some people prefer to drink their whisky from these glasses because of the tradition and the feel it gives. This glass has a wide, cylindrical shape and a thick bottom, making it perfect to use when mixing whisky with other drinks like cola or water, for example, or when you want to add ice to your whisky. It is most often used with bourbon and blended whisky.
However, connoisseurs prefer to opt for a tulip-shaped glass, as it bundles the aromas better in the nose. Snifters and copita glasses, for example, have such a shape, but are still more commonly associated with cognac and sherry. The general consensus therefore seems to be that the Glencairn glass is still usually the best choice to maximise the better whisky. The advantage of all three is that you can hold the glass in such a way that your body heat will not warm up the spirit in your glass.
Do you drink whisky with ice?
The most loaded question is whether you should drink whisky at room temperature or "on the rocks". We take no position on right or wrong and advise everyone to enjoy it in the way that suits them best. If you like a particular whisky better on ice rather than at room temperature, who are we to deprive you of that pleasure?
That said, there are some differences: a room-temperature whisky evaporates more easily, making the nose more intense as with a chilled whisky. In turn, using ice dilutes the whisky, so the flavour and intensity can diminish once that ice starts to melt in your glass. Whisky stones can be a good alternative if you don't like a whisky at room temperature but at the same time don't want your spirit to be diluted by the melting ice in your glass either.
Should you add water to whisky?
Adding water to whisky is not a must, but it can help release aromas better. Especially with whiskies with a higher alcohol content, a few drops of water can make the flavour more accessible.
Most important is personal preference: drink whisky the way you like it best, pure, with water or possibly with ice.
What is a "dram"?
A "dram" usually refers to one serving of whisky. The quantity of a dram is around 3cl, some serve 2.5cl and others go up to 3.5cl. From a 5cl sample or mini-bottle, you basically get just 2 drams, enough to discover a spirit for two.
Handy to remember if you ever want to organise a tasting yourself: from a standard 70cl bottle with a standard filling level you get:
- 35 drams of 2cl (tip: the bottle pilot on our webshop doses exactly 2cl)
- 28 drams of 2.5cl
- 23 drams of 3cl
- 20 drams of 3.5cl
However, do not count too strictly when organising a tasting, and always keep a few drams in reserve in case there is a spillage when pouring or the bottle does not contain exactly 70cl spirit (with older bottlings, the filling level can decrease slightly over time due to natural processes). And don't forget to include the host of your tasting, of course!
What does "angel's share" mean?
The term "angel's share" refers to the part of a whisky (or other matured spirit) that slowly evaporates in the barrel during the maturation process. As the spirit is aged in wooden barrels for years, a small amount of alcohol and water escapes through the pores of the wood each time. This loss can amount to about 2% per year, depending on factors such as climate, storage location and barrel type. The name is meant poetically: it is said that this part is "for the angels".
Although technically a loss for the distiller, the angel's share plays a crucial role in the development of flavour and aroma. The evaporation concentrates the residual flavours, and the contact with the wood provides complexity such as vanilla, spice and fruity notes. In warmer climates (such as rum), the angel's share tends to be greater, resulting in faster maturation than, for example, in cooler whisky regions such as Scotland.
How do I get started on Scotch whisky?
Many people assume that a more expensive bottle of Scotch whisky is automatically better. It sounds logical: the higher the price, the better the quality. But in reality, the difference between a bottle of a few tens and one of thousands of euros is rarely purely in the taste. What you pay has much more to do with age, scarcity, marketing and reputation than with what you actually taste in your glass.
To understand this properly, it helps to look at Scotch in different "levels". Each level tells you something about what you are drinking and, more importantly, what you are paying for, but not every epicurean goes through all these levels.
You can read all about it in our blog post Why an expensive Scotch doesn't necessarily taste better - the different levels of Scotch.
How do I get started on Irish whiskey?
At one time, Irish whiskey dominated the world. In the late 19th century, more than 70% of all whiskey came from Ireland. But wars, trade conflicts and prohibition in the US caused a dramatic decline. By 1980, barely two distilleries remained. Today, that picture has been completely reversed. Ireland once again has dozens of distilleries and the range of offerings ranges from simple entry-level bottles to rare collector's items costing thousands of euros.
But as always, more expensive does not automatically mean better. What do you actually get for your money? And from what point do you mainly pay for prestige? You can read more about it in our blog post Irish whiskey explained: from pub classics to million-dollar bottles.
How do I get started with Japanese whisky?
In 1918, a young Japanese student Masataka Taketsuru left for Scotland with one clear goal: to learn how to make whisky. He studied in Glasgow, apprenticed at several distilleries and obsessively noted down every detail of the process. Those notes would later form the basis of the Japanese whisky industry.
Today, Japanese whisky is a phenomenon. Bottles go under the hammer for tens of thousands of euros, distilleries can barely keep up with demand and the number of producers has exploded. But at the same time, that also makes it confusing: where do you start if you just want to drink it?
You'll discover all about it in our blog post Japanese whisky explained: from entry-level to untraceable.
Where can I buy whisky?
Basic whisky and no-name whisky can be found in any shop or supermarket, but you undoubtedly want something more. Then you're in the right place at Drankenshop Broekmans, because our range of almost 3,000 whiskies covers all brands, all distilleries, all bottlers, all flavour profiles and all price ranges.
