Whisky from Glenmorangie
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Glenmorangie 14y Quinta Ruban Port Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie 14y Quinta Ruban Port Incl. Box
In stock
Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old is a Highland single malt shaped by its port finish. It begins its maturation in old bourbon casks, building a sweet, fruity foundation, before being transferred to specially selected ruby port pipes from Portugal. That second stage adds depth, a velvety texture and bolder chocolate flavours.
Its appeal lies in the way fruit, gentle spice and the darker richness of port come together. Glenmorangie describes the whisky as made using the tallest stills in Scotland, and it is not chill-filtered, helping to preserve its fuller mouthfeel and layered flavour. Bottled at 46%, it has enough presence to enjoy neat, with a splash of water or over a few ice cubes.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of single malt we would (…)Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry 15y Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry 15y Incl. Box
Only 2 left in stock!
Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry 15y is a Highland single malt where maturation plays a central role. The use of both bourbon and sherry casks gives this whisky a different angle from a malt shaped by bourbon casks alone, while keeping away from a heavily peated or coastal style.
With 15 years of age, this Glenmorangie has had time to develop a composed cask-influenced character. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see it as a Scottish single malt for drinkers who enjoy a style built around gentle fruit, light spice, subtle wood and a small floral touch rather than smoke or salt.
The sherry reference in the name is important here. It points towards a richer side of Glenmorangie, supported by sherry cask influence, yet the 43% strength keeps the whisky in a measured and (…)Glenmorangie 16y The Nectar Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie 16y The Nectar Incl. Box
Only 2 left in stock!
Glenmorangie 16y The Nectar is a Highland single malt built around maturity and a distinctive Sauternes finish. Sixteen years gives it a more developed presence, while the finishing cask adds a particular direction to the whisky without turning it into a heavily wooded style.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would introduce as a fruit-and-spice led Glenmorangie rather than a smoky or maritime whisky. The profile points towards clear fruity and spiced notes, with lighter floral and woody touches in support.
Bottled at 46%, The Nectar has enough strength to carry its character with confidence. It is a Glenmorangie for those moments when you want a Highland single malt with age, polish and a finishing style that gives the whisky its own (…)Glenmorangie Original 12y Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie Original 12y Incl. Box
In stock
Glenmorangie Original 12y is a Scottish Highland single malt, aged for 12 years and bottled at 40%. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would place it in conversation with customers looking for a Highland whisky where fruit takes the lead, without peat smoke or a salty edge shaping the style.
The Bourbon Barrel maturation gives the whisky its frame, while the overall impression remains fruit-led. Lighter floral notes, gentle wood and mild spice sit around that core rather than taking over. It is not built around smoke or heavy intensity; its charm lies in a clear and approachable single malt character.
The name Original 12y fits the picture well: Glenmorangie, Scotland, the Highlands, twelve years of age, and a flavour profile that keeps fruit at the centre.
Glenmorangie 10y Orig Mini
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Glenmorangie 10y Orig Mini
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Glenmorangie 10y Orig Mini is a compact introduction to a 10-year-old Highland single malt matured in American oak. The mini format makes it a convenient way to explore Glenmorangie without committing to a full bottle straight away.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as part of the gentler side of Scotch single malt: not a peated style, but one built around light fruit, a soft floral touch, gentle spice and a modest influence from oak. At 40% alcohol, it stays approachable in structure while still carrying the identity of a matured Highland whisky.
With only the last bottles remaining, this small-format release is a pleasant discovery while it is still available.
Additional information about the brand can be found at (…)Glenmorangie 12y Barrel Select Calvados
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Glenmorangie 12y Barrel Select Calvados
In stock
Glenmorangie 12y Barrel Select Calvados is a Highland single malt shaped by a Calvados cask finish. That detail gives this 12-year-old whisky its main point of interest: it remains clearly within the Glenmorangie single malt world, yet the finishing cask introduces a less familiar direction.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would present this bottle to someone curious about how cask finishing can change the feel of a whisky without turning it into something heavy or smoky. The 46% strength gives it enough presence to carry its spiced side, while the lighter fruit, floral and wood accents keep the profile from becoming one-dimensional.
There is no peated emphasis here. The appeal lies more in the dialogue between Highland single malt character and the Calvados (…)Glenmorangie 12y Malaga
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Glenmorangie 12y Malaga
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Glenmorangie 12y Malaga is a Highland single malt with a rather specific identity: a 12-year-old Glenmorangie carrying the Malaga designation and bottled at 47.3%. That combination gives it a more distinctive place than a regular core-range style bottling, especially for drinkers who enjoy exploring particular releases from familiar names.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we would point out quietly rather than loudly. Its interest lies in the details: Glenmorangie, Highland origin, 12 years of age, the Malaga reference and a slightly higher bottling strength. Together, they make it feel like a release with its own story rather than just another single malt on the shelf.
With the final bottles now indicated and the whisky marked as a (…)Glenmorangie 12y Palo Cortado
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Glenmorangie 12y Palo Cortado
In stock
Glenmorangie 12y Palo Cortado is a(n) whisky from Scotland by the brand Glenmorangie. It falls within the whisky group under the category Single Malt. This whisky comes from the Highland region. Glenmorangie 12y Palo Cortado is regarded by us as a Collector's Item, which makes many a collector's heart beat that little bit faster. It is one of the many references you can currently buy online at Drankenshop Broekmans.
IMPORTANT: This whisky from Glenmorangie will never return once it is sold out. If you want to be sure that this Glenmorangie will shine in your bar cabinet, don't wait too long to order!
Our offer can sometimes be quite overwhelming. It is therefore good to know that this Glenmorangie 12y Palo Cortado has been in our collection of whisky runners (…)Glenmorangie 15y Cadboll Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie 15y Cadboll Incl. Box
In stock
Glenmorangie 15y Cadboll is a Highland single malt where the interest lies in the meeting of age and cask influence. Fifteen years gives it a more mature position, while the Amontillado Finish adds a distinctive angle without turning the whisky towards peat, salt or heaviness.
Its profile is led by spice, with wood, fruit and a light floral element playing supporting roles. That makes Cadboll feel focused rather than broad: the cask finish matters, but it does not dominate every part of the whisky's identity.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to point out to customers looking for a Highland single malt with an extra layer from maturation. With only the last bottles remaining, it is also a release that should not be seen as (…)Glenmorangie 18y Extremely Rare
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Glenmorangie 18y Extremely Rare
On request only
Glenmorangie 18y Extremely Rare is a Highland single malt shaped by time and a carefully staged maturation. It spends 15 years in old American white oak bourbon casks, after which around 30% is transferred to Spanish Oloroso sherry casks for a further three years. Once both parts have reached 18 years of age, they are brought back together.
That method gives the whisky its particular sense of finesse: fruit and wood are clearly present, with the Oloroso adding dried-fruit depth and liveliness, while the American oak keeps the sherry sweetness in balance. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a Glenmorangie for drinkers who appreciate maturity and detail rather than peat or sheer intensity.
It can be served neat, with a little water or over two or three ice (…)Glenmorangie 18y The Infinita
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Glenmorangie 18y The Infinita
Only 3 left in stock!
Glenmorangie 18y The Infinita is a Highland single malt built around maturity rather than force. Its 18 years of ageing give it a more developed presence, while the supplied flavour profile keeps it away from peat smoke and pronounced salty notes.
Maturation in bourbon and sherry casks supports a fruit-led style, with lighter touches of floral character, oak and spice sitting around it. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of whisky to introduce when someone is looking for an aged single malt with depth, but without a smoky emphasis.
Bottled at 43%, The Infinita remains composed and approachable, while the combination of Highland origin, age and cask influence gives it enough substance to enjoy slowly.
The flavour impression is (…)Glenmorangie 1989 27y
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Glenmorangie 1989 27y
Very last one in stock!
Glenmorangie 1989 27y is a Highland single malt with a very defined identity: distilled in 1989, matured for 27 years and released in a limited outturn of 6,178 bottles. It is the kind of whisky where the date matters, because it places the bottle in a specific moment of Glenmorangie's history rather than presenting it as a standard expression.
The wine finish gives this release an extra point of interest. Its story is not built on age alone; the cask finishing adds another layer to the way the whisky is framed. At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottles like this are especially rewarding to discuss, because the appeal lies in the combination of vintage, long maturation, cask choice and limited availability.
At 43% alcohol, it sits at a classic bottling strength, (…)Glenmorangie 1993 25y Grand Vintage
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Glenmorangie 1993 25y Grand Vintage
In stock
Glenmorangie 1993 25y Grand Vintage is a Highland single malt built around a specific moment in time. Distilled in 1993 and aged for 25 years, it carries the appeal of an older vintage release rather than that of a regular core whisky.
Only 3,664 bottles were produced, and with the product marked as a collectors item and now down to the last bottles, its sense of scarcity is part of the story. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Glenmorangie we would introduce to someone who appreciates age, provenance and the detail of a clearly dated release.
The supplied flavour profile points towards fruit, spice and wood as the main pillars, without peat or salty notes taking the lead. Bottled at 43%, it keeps the attention on the mature Highland single malt (…)Glenmorangie 1995 Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie 1995 Incl. Box
Only 3 left in stock!
Glenmorangie 1995 is a Highland single malt built around age, vintage and cask influence. Distilled in 1995 and matured for 23 years, it presents a more mature side of Glenmorangie while remaining bottled at a measured 43% ABV.
The cask story is central here. Bourbon and sherry casks shape the whisky's direction, supporting a profile where fruit, spice and wood carry the main weight, with a lighter floral note sitting behind them. There is no peated or salty emphasis in the supplied profile, so the focus stays firmly on cask maturity rather than smoke or coastal character.
With 5,400 bottles released and the last bottles now indicated, this is no longer an everyday Glenmorangie expression. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would place it among the older Scottish (…)Glenmorangie 1996
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Glenmorangie 1996
Very last one in stock!
Glenmorangie 1996 is the kind of Highland whisky where the year immediately matters. Distilled in 1996 and bottled at 23 years of age, it is tied to a clearly defined point in time rather than simply presented as another aged whisky.
Matured in oak casks and released in a run of 10,150 bottles, it has the feel of a defined edition rather than an open-ended expression. With the last bottles now remaining, it holds a more particular place in the Highland whisky selection at Drankenshop Broekmans.
At 43% alcohol, the presentation stays measured and classic. Its interest lies in the combination of the Glenmorangie name, the 1996 distillation year and 23 years of maturation: a whisky chosen for provenance, age and a calm sense of maturity.
Glenmorangie A Tale Of Ice Cream Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie A Tale Of Ice Cream Incl. Box
In stock
Glenmorangie A Tale Of Ice Cream is a Highland single malt with a name that immediately points to a more playful side of whisky. Rather than presenting itself through an age statement, it places the emphasis on style and mood: a Glenmorangie shaped around a clearly fruity profile, with lighter floral, woody and spicy touches in support.
Its bourbon barrel maturation fits that rounded, approachable direction, without taking the whisky into smoky territory. Bottled at 46%, it has enough strength to carry its character while keeping the focus on fruit and gentle supporting notes.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we see as an engaging way to explore Glenmorangie from a more creative, dessert-inspired angle, while still staying within the world (…)Glenmorangie A Tale Of Tokyo
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Glenmorangie A Tale Of Tokyo
In stock
Glenmorangie A Tale Of Tokyo is a Scottish Highland single malt with a name that immediately sets it apart. The available product data does not give a detailed story behind the Tokyo reference, so it is best approached as a distinct Glenmorangie release rather than as a standard expression.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we would point customers first to its flavour direction. The profile places the wood influence clearly at the centre, with lighter touches of spice, fruit and floral character around it. Peat smoke and salinity are not part of the stated profile, so the whisky reads more as a wood-led Highland single malt than a smoky or coastal style.
Bottled at 46% and marked as one of the last bottles, this is a release for those who want to explore this (…)Glenmorangie Accord 12y 1l
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Glenmorangie Accord 12y 1l
On request only
Glenmorangie Accord 12y is a Highland single malt built around a clear cask conversation: bourbon and sherry. After 12 years of maturation, the whisky leans towards fruit and spice, with the wood influence kept in a supporting role rather than taking over the glass.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a Glenmorangie for drinkers who enjoy a polished Scottish single malt without a peated character. The 43% strength keeps the whisky approachable while still giving enough presence to the cask maturation.
The 1 litre bottle also makes it a generous choice for those who like to return to the same style over several evenings. Its appeal lies in the combination of Highland origin, 12 years of age and the interplay between bourbon and sherry casks.
Glenmorangie Allta
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Glenmorangie Allta
In stock
Glenmorangie Allta is a Highland single malt with a little more force behind it. Bottled at 51.2% and presented without an age statement, it puts the focus on style rather than age: bourbon cask maturation, a clearly fruity profile, and gentle support from wood, spice and floral tones.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Glenmorangie we would point out to someone who already enjoys the distillery's single malt character but wants a stronger, more direct version. The bourbon cask influence gives it a familiar foundation, while the higher strength brings extra presence in the glass.
With the last bottles now available, Glenmorangie Allta feels less like an everyday reference and more like a specific snapshot within the Highland single malt category. (…)Glenmorangie Astar 2017
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Glenmorangie Astar 2017
In stock
Glenmorangie Astar 2017 is a Highland single malt with a clear emphasis on American oak and a robust bottling strength of 52.5%. With no age statement on the label, the focus shifts away from age and towards style: noticeable oak, a well-defined spicy side and a lighter thread of fruit in support.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Glenmorangie that stands out because it presents the distillery's Highland identity in a fuller, more oak-driven way. The 2017 release reference gives it a specific place in the range, and with only the last bottles remaining, it is not a whisky to treat as an everyday standard listing.
Astar 2017 is best understood as a single malt built around structure, wood influence and spice, rather than peat smoke or coastal (…)Glenmorangie Original 12y Mini
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Glenmorangie Original 12y Mini
Temporarily sold out
Glenmorangie Original 12y Mini is a compact presentation of a 12 year old Highland single malt from Scotland, bottled at 40%. It keeps the focus on the Glenmorangie name and the Original style, while the smaller format makes it a practical way to get acquainted with the whisky.
Maturation in Bourbon Barrel gives a gentle wood influence, but the profile points more clearly towards fruit. Light floral, spicy and woody accents sit around that fruit-led character, with no peated or salty side indicated in the data. The result is a Scotch single malt whose identity is built around clarity rather than heavy smoke.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this mini as a useful bottle for discovery, comparison or gifting: modest in size, yet still carrying the story of a 12 (…)Glenmorangie Pride 1974 41y 1l
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Glenmorangie Pride 1974 41y 1l
Very last one in stock!
Glenmorangie Pride 1974 is a Highland single malt defined by long maturation, limited availability and a very specific moment in the distillery's history. Distilled in 1974 and aged for 41 years, it sits far away from everyday whisky drinking. Only 503 bottles were released, and the fact that these are now among the last bottles adds to its quiet sense of occasion.
The maturation brings together sherry and bourbon casks, giving the whisky a profile where wood, spice and fruit all have a clear role. Bottled at cask strength at 52%, it keeps a more direct expression of its strength rather than being reduced to a standard drinking strength.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, a bottle like this is best understood as a rare Glenmorangie release for someone who appreciates (…)Glenmorangie Pride 1978 34y 1l 2nd Edition
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Glenmorangie Pride 1978 34y 1l 2nd Edition
Very last one in stock!
Glenmorangie Pride 1978 34y 2nd Edition is a Scottish Highland whisky built around time and scarcity. Distilled in 1978 and aged for 34 years, it belongs to a very different world from regular whisky releases: this is a bottle defined by its long maturation and its specific place within Glenmorangie's limited output.
The Wine Finish is an important part of its identity. The supplied information does not include detailed tasting notes, so it would be wrong to invent aromas or flavours, but the cask reference clearly tells us that the finishing period forms part of the story of this release. At 47.4% alcohol, it remains a substantial and mature presentation.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see a bottle like this as a distinctive reference point for serious whisky (…)Glenmorangie Signet Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie Signet Incl. Box
Only 2 left in stock!
Glenmorangie Signet sits at the deeper, more contemplative end of the Glenmorangie range. It is presented by the distillery as the height of its expertise: a Highland single malt built around richness, complexity and a more profound style of aroma.
The exact recipe is kept secret, but the important clues are there. Signet contains some of Glenmorangie's oldest whiskies, while its distinctive core comes from heavily roasted chocolate malt. Estate-grown barley brings the creamy Glenmorangie style, and the final composition draws together extra-mature sweet whiskies from old sherry casks, spicy toasted whiskies from newly charred oak casks, and mature stocks that give Signet its depth.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we would introduce as (…)
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.
