Whisky
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Amrut 10y Artist (La Maison Du Whisky - Artist Collection)
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Amrut 10y Artist (La Maison Du Whisky - Artist Collection)
Only 3 left in stock!
Amrut 10y Artist shows Indian single malt through the lens of La Maison du Whisky's Artist Collection. Rather than a broad release, this is a single cask whisky, distilled in 2010 and bottled in 2020 at ten years of age.
The Pedro Ximenez cask gives the bottling a clear point of focus, while the 63.9% cask strength keeps the presentation powerful and direct. It feels like a close-up view of one particular Amrut cask, bottled without being softened into a larger batch.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this are valued for their specificity: one cask, 279 bottles, and now down to the last bottles. It is the kind of whisky that invites attention from drinkers who enjoy limited single cask bottlings with a strong sense of origin and selection.
Craigellachie 2011 (Signatory Vintage 100 Proof)
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Craigellachie 2011 (Signatory Vintage 100 Proof)
On request only
Craigellachie 2011 is a Speyside single malt with a decidedly specialist feel. Distilled in 2011, aged for 15 years and bottled by Signatory as part of the Signatory Vintage 100 proof range, it is presented at 57.1%, so the strength is part of the whisky's personality rather than a background detail.
The Pedro Ximenez cask gives this release a clear point of focus. It brings the bottling into a more characterful corner of Speyside, while still keeping the emphasis on a named distillery, a defined vintage and a precise Signatory selection.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this are valued because they show how a familiar single malt can take on a different angle through bottler, cask and bottling strength. With the last bottles now in view, Craigellachie (…)Croftenga 2005 16y Awwif (Alistair Walker - Infrequent Flyers)
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Croftenga 2005 16y Awwif (Alistair Walker - Infrequent Flyers)
On request only
Croftenga 2005 16y Awwif is a Highland single malt bottled at cask strength, coming in at 56.4%. Distilled on 23 February 2005 and bottled on 1 March 2021, it spent 16 years maturing before being released.
Its appeal lies in its very specific origin: one Pedro Ximenez cask, bottled by Alistair Walker as part of the Infrequent Flyers range. With 605 bottles drawn from that single cask, this is not a whisky built around a house style, but a focused release showing the personality of one individual cask.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we value bottlings like this because they give whisky drinkers something concrete to explore: age, cask, strength and provenance all coming together in a limited release. The last available bottles underline that scarcity, while the (…)Dailuaine 2015 10y (Adelphi)
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Dailuaine 2015 10y (Adelphi)
On request only
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 (…)Edradour 2001 21y (Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice) Tube Incl.
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Edradour 2001 21y (Signatory Vintage Symington's Choice) Tube Incl.
In stock
Edradour 2001 21y is a Highland single malt with a very precise identity: distilled on 6 December 2001, matured for 21 years and bottled by Signatory on 31 October 2023 as part of the Symington's Choice range.
It comes from a single first fill Pedro Ximénez sherry hogshead and was bottled at cask strength, 53.3%, with natural colour and without chill filtration. Only 321 bottles were drawn from the cask, so this is less about a broad house style and more about one individual cask captured at a particular point in its maturation.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this stand out because they combine maturity, cask strength and genuine small-batch scarcity. The fact that these are the last bottles simply reinforces the nature of the whisky: once (…)Edradour 2014 11y Px Tube Incl.
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Edradour 2014 11y Px Tube Incl.
On request only
Edradour 2014 11y PX is a Highland single malt shaped by a clear sense of time and cask influence. Distilled in 2014 and matured for 11 years, it carries its Pedro Ximenez reference openly in both name and cask indication.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a whisky for drinkers who are drawn to a spicier style rather than a peated one. The profile points to pronounced spice, supported by a lighter fruity side and a gentle touch of wood.
Bottled at 46%, it has enough presence to feel purposeful in the glass. With only the last bottles remaining, this Edradour is also a release with limited availability.
The available profile points to a whisky with spice as its main feature. Fruit sits more in the background, while the wood influence (…)Edradour N°1 6y
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Edradour N°1 6y
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 01/11/2026Edradour N°1 6y is the second part of an edition created in honour of Andrew Symington's 40-year career in the whisky industry. It was distilled at Edradour No. 1, the historic distillery, and is particularly interesting when tasted alongside the companion release from Edradour No. 2.
Matured for 6 years in first fill Pedro Ximénez hogsheads, this Highland single malt was bottled at cask strength, 57.1% ABV. It is non-chill filtered and bottled at natural colour, keeping the presentation close to the whisky as it came from the cask.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this Edradour as a whisky for drinkers who enjoy a bold, dark-fruited and spice-led style. The combination of youthful energy, high strength and Pedro Ximénez maturation gives it (…)Glen Spey 2008 18y (Signatory - Cask Collection)
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Glen Spey 2008 18y (Signatory - Cask Collection)
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 01/11/2026Glen Spey 2008 18y is a Speyside single malt from Rothes, bottled by Signatory as part of the Cask Collection. Rather than a broad house-style release, this is a single cask whisky bottled at cask strength, shaped by maturation in a 1st Fill Pedro Ximénez hogshead.
With 18 years of age, natural colour and a strength of 54.4%, it keeps a direct connection to the cask. The supplied tasting notes point to a darker, sweetly spiced style, with fig, date, raisins, caramel, milk chocolate and mocha carried by a creamy texture.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this have a natural place among whiskies for people who enjoy seeing how one distillery, one cask and one maturation path come together. This Glen Spey offers a focused look at Speyside malt (…)Glencadam Reserva Pedro Ximenez Tube Incl.
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Glencadam Reserva Pedro Ximenez Tube Incl.
| 1 review
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 17/11/2026Glencadam Reserva Pedro Ximenez shows the Highland single malt from Glencadam in a richer, more dessert-led style. Its Pedro Ximénez cask finish is central to the experience, bringing pronounced sweetness, pastry-like notes and a darker spicy depth.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a fitting choice for drinkers looking for a clearly cask-influenced single malt without peat taking the lead. Bottled at 46%, it has enough weight to carry the sweet, spiced and fruity elements with confidence.
There is no age statement here; the focus is on style and flavour. Warm, generous and built around dried fruit, chocolate, caramel and spice, it is the kind of Highland whisky that naturally suits a slower glass after dinner.
The aroma opens in (…)Glendronach 1991 31y#1106
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Glendronach 1991 31y#1106
On request only
Glendronach 1991 31y #1106 is a Highland single malt with a very clear identity. It was distilled on 22 November 1991 and bottled in 2023, after 31 years in a single ex-Pedro Ximenez sherry puncheon.
That cask choice is central to the whisky's story. The supplied profile points to a deep sherried style, with plum, chocolate, raisins, ginger and tobacco running through the experience. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Glendronach we would introduce to someone looking for mature sherry-cask character with dark fruit, spice and a more sensual side.
Bottled at cask strength, 50.9%, it keeps close to the power of the original cask. Only 667 bottles came from cask 1106, making this a very specific expression of one long-aged whisky. With the last (…)Glendronach 1992 30y #1088
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Glendronach 1992 30y #1088
On request only
Glendronach 1992 30y #1088 is built around one very specific cask. Distilled on 4 December 1992 and bottled in 2023, this Highland single malt spent thirty years in Puncheon #1088, a cask that had previously held Pedro Ximenez sherry.
That single cask origin gives the whisky a clear sense of place and time: one mature Glendronach, one sherry-seasoned Puncheon, 685 bottles. With the last bottles now in circulation, its appeal lies not just in scarcity, but in the depth of character that this kind of long maturation can show.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a Glendronach for drinkers who appreciate powerful sherried whisky with dark fruit, spice, cocoa, coffee and oak at the centre. Bottled at 56%, it has real presence in the glass, while the tasting (…)Glendronach 1996 20y B14 Incl. Box
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Glendronach 1996 20y B14 Incl. Box
On request only
Glendronach 1996 20y B14 is a Highland single malt built around one very specific cask rather than a broad house-style blend. It was distilled on 16 February 1996 and bottled on 1 September 2016 after 20 years in a Pedro Ximenez cask.
Because this is a single cask release bottled at cask strength, at 53%, it presents a particular maturation in a direct way. Only 596 bottles were filled, and with the last bottles indicated, it has the feel of a limited parcel rather than a whisky that can simply be replaced. At Drankenshop Broekmans, that makes it the kind of bottle we would introduce as a specific cask story, not just another age-stated malt.
The supplied profile points towards clear fruit and spice, with wood playing a lighter supporting role. The Pedro (…)Glendronach Ode Dark Incl. Box
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Glendronach Ode Dark Incl. Box
In stock
Glendronach Ode Dark lives up to its name with a distinctly dark, generous style. This Highland single malt is matured in Pedro Ximenez casks and bottled at 50.8%, giving it the strength to carry its deep notes of chocolate, coffee and dark fruit with real presence.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Glendronach that often speaks to drinkers who enjoy richness without looking for smoke. The emphasis is on depth, spice and fruit, with the cask influence adding intensity rather than simply weight.
Ode Dark is not built around an age statement, but around atmosphere and concentration. It is a full-flavoured single malt with a dessert-like darkness, a whisky to pour when you want something dense, polished and warmly expressive.
The aroma (…)Glenglassaugh 50y
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Glenglassaugh 50y
Very last one in stock!
Glenglassaugh 50y is the kind of Scottish single malt that speaks quietly but carries real weight. A whisky matured for 50 years naturally invites a slower kind of attention, where the interest lies in time, origin and the individuality of the cask rather than in broad stylistic claims.
This Speyside release comes from a single Pedro Ximenez cask and was bottled in a run of just 264 bottles. With the last bottles now remaining, its limited nature is very much part of the story. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see bottlings like this as bottles for drinkers who appreciate a precise snapshot of long maturation from one individual cask.
Bottled at cask strength at 40.1%, this 50-year-old Glenglassaugh keeps a direct connection to the cask it came from. It is a (…)Glengoyne 2013 13y Pedro Ximenez *PRESALE*
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Glengoyne 2013 13y Pedro Ximenez *PRESALE*
Pre-order
Glengoyne 2013 13y Pedro Ximenez brings together the distillery's naturally fruity, unpeated Highland style with the richer influence of Pedro Ximenez casks. Distilled in 2013, it first matured in classic Glengoyne casks before the Pedro Ximenez element added extra sweetness, depth and roundness.
What makes this release stand out is its generous, dessert-like feel while still keeping the fruit at the centre. The cask influence brings warmth, spice, chocolate tones and treacle toffee around the distillate rather than covering it. Its natural colour comes entirely from maturation and the interaction between whisky and wood.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Glengoyne we like to introduce to customers looking for a richer take on fruity single malt (…)Islay 19y Macb (Elixir Distillers - Macbeth Series)
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Islay 19y Macb (Elixir Distillers - Macbeth Series)
In stock
This 19-year-old Islay single malt is part of the Macbeth Collection, a series of 42 Scottish whiskies named after characters from William Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth. Within that collection, First Witch belongs to the four smoky whiskies, a fitting role for a malt from a distillery on Islay's Kildalton coast with a clearly smoky profile.
Maturation in Pedro Ximenez casks gives the whisky a darker, fruit-laden side alongside its maritime Islay nature. The smoke is not standing on its own here; it is joined by dried fruit, spice, salt and savoury notes. Bottled at cask strength, 51.7%, it keeps its natural weight and intensity.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to place in context: a 19-year-old Islay malt, part of a carefully (…)Islay 2007 18y #10004 (Berry Bros - Berry's Exceptional Casks)
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Islay 2007 18y #10004 (Berry Bros - Berry's Exceptional Casks)
In stock
Islay 2007 18y #10004 is a single malt with a clear island signature: smoke, peat, salt and a lightly medicinal edge that immediately points towards Islay. With the distillery left undisclosed, the focus shifts to the whisky itself and to the influence of the cask.
Berry Bros. & Rudd bottled this as a single cask at cask strength after 18 years of maturation, with 673 bottles released. The Pedro Ximénez cask adds a darker, sweeter layer to the robust Islay core, bringing dates and chocolate alongside maritime smoke and peat. It does not turn the whisky into something overly sweet; instead, the PX element gives weight and contrast to the smoky, salty character.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to present when someone is (…)Kavalan Pedro Ximenez 95cl
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Kavalan Pedro Ximenez 95cl
In stock
Kavalan Solist Pedro Ximenez is a whisky where the cask takes the lead. Every Solist release is bottled at cask strength and drawn from a single cask; at Kavalan, the master distiller assesses each cask individually and decides when it has reached the right moment for bottling. This Pedro Ximenez cask Solist is therefore not a repeatable standard release, but a very specific selection.
At 56.3%, this Taiwanese single malt keeps the direct, full-strength style of the Solist range. The Pedro Ximenez cask influence gives it a sweet, nutty direction, while wood and spice remain clearly present in the profile. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of bottle for someone who wants to taste the individuality of one particular cask.
As a single cask with (…)Kavalan Pedro Ximenez Cask Solist
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Kavalan Pedro Ximenez Cask Solist
Only 2 left in stock!
Kavalan Pedro Ximenez Cask Solist is a Taiwanese single malt built around the core idea of the Solist range: one individual cask, bottled at cask strength, with its own identity left intact. At Kavalan, each cask is judged on its own, and the master distiller decides when it has reached the right moment for bottling.
This Pedro Ximenez Cask Solist was bottled on 13 June 2016 at 56.3% ABV. Only 547 bottles came from this single cask, giving it a very specific place within the Kavalan line-up. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we value bottlings like this because they show how much personality can come from one carefully selected cask.
With its cask strength presentation, limited outturn and status as one of the last bottles, this release has clear appeal for those who (…)Linkwood 2015 10y (Adelphi)
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Linkwood 2015 10y (Adelphi)
On request only
Linkwood 2015 10y presents Speyside single malt in a more concentrated and cask-driven form. Distilled at Linkwood in 2015, it spent 10 years in a first fill Pedro Ximenez hogshead, giving the whisky a clear sherry-cask direction while keeping the focus on one individual maturation.
This is a single cask release, bottled at cask strength with an outturn of 280 bottles and selected exclusively for the European market. At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are valued because they show a very specific side of a distillery: one cask, one maturation path, one limited release.
At 57.8%, it is firmly built, with the Pedro Ximenez influence shaping the richer side of the whisky. The remaining bottles underline its limited nature, making it a compact but (…)Speyside (M) 2011 14y Unchill Filtered (Signatory)
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Speyside (M) 2011 14y Unchill Filtered (Signatory)
On request only
Speyside (M) 2011 14y Unchill Filtered is an independent single malt with a deliberately discreet identity. The distillery remains undisclosed, yet Signatory gives the whisky clear points of reference: Speyside origin, distilled in 2011, matured for 14 years and bottled in the Unchill Filtered range at 48.2%.
The Pedro Ximenez cask gives the maturation an evident role in the whisky's character. Fruit, spice and wood are all clearly present in the profile, while peat and salinity stay out of the picture. That keeps the focus on a Speyside malt shaped by cask influence without turning it into a smoky or coastal style.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are valued for the way they sit outside the usual distillery releases. The undisclosed source, (…)Stag Wine (Dalmore) 2013 10y 13.106 (Scotch Malt Whisky Society - Artist Collection) Tube Incl.
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Stag Wine (Dalmore) 2013 10y 13.106 (Scotch Malt Whisky Society - Artist Collection) Tube Incl.
In stock
Stag Wine 13.106 is a Highland single malt from Dalmore, distilled in 2013 and bottled in 2023 at 10 years of age. It comes from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society's Artist Collection, a setting where the focus is firmly on an individual cask rather than a recurring house expression.
The appeal here lies in its specificity. This is a single cask bottling from a Pedro Ximenez cask, released at cask strength with an alcoholic strength of 60.1%. Only 237 bottles were filled, and with the last bottles now available, the release has the quiet tension of something finite rather than widely reproducible.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we place in front of someone who enjoys seeing a distillery through one sharply defined lens. It is Dalmore (…)Tullibardine 2010 12y (Cadenhead - Original Collection)
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Tullibardine 2010 12y (Cadenhead - Original Collection)
On request only
Tullibardine 2010 12y is a Highland single malt with a very specific angle: an independent Cadenhead bottling from the Original Collection, matured in a Pedro Ximenez cask and bottled at 46%.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we like to point out when someone is looking beyond the standard distillery range. It shows Tullibardine through Cadenhead's lens, with the cask choice giving the whisky a clearly spiced direction, while lighter fruit, floral and woody touches sit in support.
With only the last bottles remaining, this release has the feel of a particular snapshot rather than a permanent expression. For anyone curious about Highland single malt seen through an independent bottler's selection, it offers a focused and characterful way to (…)Westland 2019 5y Peated Malt "30 Years Blackadder" Incl. Box
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Westland 2019 5y Peated Malt "30 Years Blackadder" Incl. Box
Only 3 left in stock!
Westland 2019 5y Peated Malt "30 Years Blackadder" is a(n) whiskey from United States by the brand Westland. It falls within the whiskey group under the category Single Malt. It is one of the many references you can currently buy online at Drankenshop Broekmans.
IMPORTANT: This whiskey from Westland will never return once it is sold out. If you want to be sure that this Westland will shine in your bar cabinet, don't wait too long to order!
This whiskey is matured in Pedro Ximenez barrels. It is a version of 70 cl and has an alcohol content of 57,6%.
Westland 2019 5y Peated Malt "30 Years Blackadder" is bottled by Blackadder.
This whiskey is a single cask bottling. What is a single cask? A single cask (…)
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.
