Whisky
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Amrut 2015 7y Oloroso
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Amrut 2015 7y Oloroso
On request only
Amrut 2015 7y Oloroso is an Indian single malt with a very clearly defined identity: distilled in 2015, matured for seven years and drawn from a single Oloroso Sherry cask. Rather than presenting a broad house style, this bottling focuses on the personality of one individual cask.
Bottled at cask strength, at 60% alcohol, it carries a firm and concentrated presence. The Oloroso Sherry cask sits naturally alongside a profile where fruit, spice and wood are clearly part of the picture, supported by a lighter floral note.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we place in front of customers who enjoy precise, limited single cask releases. With only the last bottles remaining, it feels like a specific snapshot of Amrut seen through the lens of (…)Amrut Peated Port 2015 8y
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Amrut Peated Port 2015 8y
In stock
Amrut Peated Port 2015 8y is an Indian single malt with a very direct identity: peated, port matured and bottled at cask strength. Distilled in June 2015 and bottled in July 2023, it carries an 8 year age statement and comes in at a full 60% ABV.
Its single cask nature is central to the appeal. With 486 bottles drawn from one cask, this is not a broad house-style release, but a focused snapshot of one maturation. The port cask element supports the fruit-driven side, while peat and spice give the whisky its more forceful edge.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of bottle that speaks to drinkers who enjoy single malt with impact and definition. It is powerful, limited in scope, and built around the tension between smoke, fruit and spice rather (…)Ardnamurchan 2015 6y Tb (Thompson Brothers)
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Ardnamurchan 2015 6y Tb (Thompson Brothers)
On request only
Ardnamurchan 2015 6y Tb is a Highland single malt with a very direct identity. Distilled in 2015 and bottled in March 2022, it spent 6 years in a bourbon barrel. As a single cask release, it presents one specific cask rather than a broader, blended house interpretation.
Bottled at cask strength, 58.4% alcohol, it keeps close to the character of the barrel. Only 253 bottles were filled, so the limited nature of this release is part of its appeal, especially with the last bottles now remaining.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we like to explain rather than simply list: a compact, focused Highland malt where the available profile points to fruit as the main thread, supported by lighter floral, woody and spicy touches, without a peated (…)Ben Nevis 2015 10y (Signatory Vintage 100 Proof)
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Ben Nevis 2015 10y (Signatory Vintage 100 Proof)
On request only
Ben Nevis 2015 10y is a Highland single malt with a very direct presentation. Bottled by Signatory as part of the Signatory Vintage 100 proof range, it comes at cask strength, 57.1%, giving the whisky a firm and unpolished sense of presence.
The appeal lies in its single cask origin and Oloroso finish. Rather than a broad house-style expression, this is a closer look at one individual cask and one particular maturation path. At 10 years old, it sits in that space where maturity is present, but the whisky still keeps plenty of drive.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of bottle that speaks to drinkers who enjoy independent bottlings with a clear cask identity. With only the last bottles remaining, it also has the feeling of a release that will (…)Ben Nevis 2015 11y (Campbeltown Whisky Company - Watt Whisky)
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Ben Nevis 2015 11y (Campbeltown Whisky Company - Watt Whisky)
Very last one in stock!
Ben Nevis 2015 11y from Watt Whisky presents a very direct side of Highland single malt. Distilled in 2015 and bottled after 11 years from a Bourbon Barrel, it keeps the focus on the spirit itself: fruit, floral notes and a creamy pastry-like side rather than heavy wood influence.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are valued because they capture one individual cask rather than a broad house style. This is a single cask release at 53.7% cask strength, with only 300 bottles drawn. That gives the whisky a clear sense of place and limitation: one cask, one moment of maturation, bottled with its natural intensity intact.
The supplied profile points to ripe fruit, floral honey and a lightly waxy texture, giving this Ben Nevis both liveliness and depth. (…)Ben Nevis 2015 6y (The Whisky Trail By Elixir - Silhouette Series)
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Ben Nevis 2015 6y (The Whisky Trail By Elixir - Silhouette Series)
In stock
Ben Nevis 2015 6y presents Highland single malt in a direct, close-to-the-cask style. Distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2022 by The Whisky Trail by Elixir for the Silhouette Series, it comes from a single bourbon barrel and was bottled at cask strength.
At 58.4%, this is a whisky with real presence. Its 6 years of maturation keep the expression youthful and energetic, while the single cask origin gives it a very specific view of Ben Nevis rather than the broader profile of a larger vatting.
With only 256 bottles produced, and with the final bottles now concerned, it has the small-batch appeal that many independent whisky drinkers look for. Within the Drankenshop Broekmans range, it stands out as a compact but characterful Highland release for those who enjoy (…)Benrinnes 11y (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
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Benrinnes 11y (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
Very last one in stock!
Benrinnes 11y is a Speyside single malt bottled by Douglas Laing as part of the Old Particular Wine Cask Collection. The series focuses on single cask Scotch whiskies lifted by the influence of carefully selected wine casks, and this release captures one particular cask at 11 years of age.
Only 361 bottles were drawn from this cask, giving the whisky a clearly limited character. At Drankenshop Broekmans, releases like this are interesting because they do not try to represent a broad house style; they show a defined moment where Benrinnes spirit, maturation and cask influence meet.
Bottled at 48.4%, it has enough strength to carry its fruit, sweetness and gentle spice without feeling driven by alcohol alone. For drinkers exploring limited Speyside single (…)Clynelish 2015 9y (Adelphi)
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Clynelish 2015 9y (Adelphi)
On request only
Clynelish 2015 9y is a Highland single malt with a very clear identity: one cask, bottled at cask strength, matured in a refill Oloroso sherry butt. What makes that particularly engaging is the way the cask sits alongside the typical waxy Clynelish style rather than pushing it into the background.
The whisky brings together wood, spice and fruit in a measured way, supported by the sherry cask influence and the natural strength of 54.5%. It feels like a bottling built around detail: a specific cask, a defined age, and a distillery style that remains part of the conversation.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of release we like to present to customers who enjoy single cask whisky with a clear sense of origin. With 477 bottles and an exclusive export (…)Dalmore 2015 9y (Adelphi)
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Dalmore 2015 9y (Adelphi)
On request only
Dalmore 2015 9y shows a more direct side of Highland single malt: one cask, bottled at natural cask strength, with the distillate kept firmly in focus. It matured in a first fill bourbon American Standard Barrel, a choice that supports the whisky without taking away its clear, malt-driven identity.
At 59.1% and with only 238 bottles drawn from the cask, this is a compact release rather than a regular house expression. The story here is about a specific barrel and a specific moment in maturation, with bourbon cask influence, youthful energy and a clean whisky character all sitting close together.
For Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Dalmore that adds depth to a whisky selection: not because it tries to be everything at once, but because it gives a (…)Glencadam 2015 11y Single Cask The Nectar
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Glencadam 2015 11y Single Cask The Nectar
In stock
Glencadam 2015 11y Single Cask The Nectar was selected to celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Nectar. Rather than choosing a whisky built around sheer intensity, this release reflects a more refined idea: authenticity, elegance and the pleasure of discovering a well-chosen cask.
Drawn from a single bourbon barrel and bottled at 46% after 11 years, it represents one very specific selection rather than a broad vatting. Only 318 bottles were filled. At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are especially interesting when scarcity is supported by character, and here the appeal lies in Glencadam's clear, fruity and subtly floral side.
The bourbon barrel influence adds gentle notes of vanilla and honey around fresh orchard fruit, without taking over the (…)Glenrothes 2005 14y 50cl (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
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Glenrothes 2005 14y 50cl (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
In stock
Glenrothes 2005 14 Year Old from Douglas Laing is a Speyside single malt with a very focused identity: one distillery, one sherry butt and a limited outturn of 368 bottles. As part of the Old Particular range, it presents Glenrothes through the lens of a single cask rather than a broader house-style vatting.
Bottled at cask strength and 48.4%, it keeps close to its cask origins without becoming all about alcohol strength. The sherry butt influence sits alongside a flavour profile where fruit and wood are clearly present, supported by a lighter thread of spice.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of whisky that speaks to drinkers who enjoy individual cask selections and limited releases. With only the last bottles remaining, its availability is (…)Kavalan 2015 6y Vinho Single Cask 55,6
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Kavalan 2015 6y Vinho Single Cask 55,6
On request only
Kavalan 2015 6y Vinho Single Cask 55.6 is a Taiwanese single malt built around the individuality of one wine cask. Bottled at cask strength and drawn from a release of just 181 bottles, it speaks more of a specific cask selection than of a broad house-style expression.
Distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2022 after 6 years of maturation, this Kavalan carries the Vinho name with a clear wine cask identity. The available flavour profile points towards a whisky where fruit and spice are the main accents, with lighter touches of wood and floral character in support.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottles like this are interesting because they show how focused a single cask release can be. With its Taiwanese origin, cask strength bottling and very small outturn, it has a (…)Kavalan 2015 7y Bourbon Single Cask Incl. Box
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Kavalan 2015 7y Bourbon Single Cask Incl. Box
Only 2 left in stock!
Kavalan 2015 7y Bourbon Single Cask is a Taiwanese single malt with a very focused identity: one distillation year, one bourbon barrel and bottling at cask strength. Distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2022, it presents seven years of maturation through the lens of one individual cask rather than a broader vatting.
Only 164 bottles were released, giving this whisky a clearly limited nature. At 53.2%, it keeps the directness of cask strength, with wood, spice and fruit standing out clearly and a lighter floral accent sitting behind them.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Kavalan we like to present when someone is looking for a specific cask-driven release rather than a general introduction to the brand. The combination of Taiwanese single malt, (…)Kavalan 2015 8y Bourbon Nectar Tube Incl.
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Kavalan 2015 8y Bourbon Nectar Tube Incl.
In stock
Kavalan 2015 8y Bourbon Nectar is a Taiwanese single malt built around one very specific cask. Distilled in 2015 and bottled in October 2023 after 8 years, it matured entirely in a bourbon barrel and was released in only a very small number of bottles.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Kavalan we like to present when someone wants more than a regular expression: a compact single cask release with real presence. The 52.4% strength keeps the whisky close to its cask-driven intensity, while the bourbon barrel maturation supports the fruit, spice and toasted wood notes rather than covering them.
The Bourbon Nectar name suits the style suggested by the tasting notes: ripe tropical fruit, warm oak and a touch of spice. With only the last bottles (…)Kavalan 2015 9y Bourbon Single Cask
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Kavalan 2015 9y Bourbon Single Cask
On request only
Kavalan 2015 9y Bourbon Single Cask is a focused Taiwanese single malt built around one clearly defined idea: a single bourbon cask, nine years of maturation and bottling at cask strength. At 51.6%, it keeps the intensity of the cask intact, giving a direct impression of this particular whisky as it stood in 2024.
The bourbon cask maturation brings the whisky into a sensuous, pastry-like register, supported by fruit, flowers, spice and a measured wood influence. It is not described as smoky; the interest lies more in the way creamy sweetness, orchard fruit, spice and floral notes unfold through the whisky.
Only 140 bottles were filled, and with the last bottles now indicated, this Kavalan has a naturally limited place within the selection at Drankenshop (…)Kavalan 2015 9y Peated Single Cask 53,2
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Kavalan 2015 9y Peated Single Cask 53,2
On request only
Kavalan 2015 9y Peated Single Cask is a Taiwanese single malt with a very focused identity: one cask, nine years of maturation and bottled at cask strength. Distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2024, it presents a direct view of a single Peated Cask rather than a broader, more polished composition.
Its appeal lies in the way strength and detail meet. At 53.2%, the whisky keeps close to its cask origin, while the supplied notes point towards elegant smoke, mineral touches, saline accents and a lift of fruit and florals. The peaty, ashy and maritime side is described as flowing harmoniously, giving the whisky a layered rather than one-dimensional smoky character.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this Kavalan stands out because only 122 bottles were drawn from the cask. (…)Kavalan Solist Peated Nectar
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Kavalan Solist Peated Nectar
In stock
Kavalan Solist Peated Nectar is a Taiwanese single malt with a very focused identity: single cask, cask strength, and finished in an Islay cask. Rather than presenting a broad house-style batch, it captures one particular cask at one particular point in its life.
Distilled in April 2015 and bottled in January 2021, it comes at 54% ABV. The flavour direction is led by pronounced fruit, with wood and spice giving structure. Peat and a light salty edge sit more in the background, adding the influence of the Islay finish without turning the whisky into something dominated by smoke.
Only 166 bottles were filled, and these are now among the last bottles. At Drankenshop Broekmans, that makes this a noteworthy Kavalan for drinkers who appreciate limited single cask (…)Kornog 2015 8y Ex Libris Quelque Part Dans Le Ciel Tube Incl.
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Kornog 2015 8y Ex Libris Quelque Part Dans Le Ciel Tube Incl.
In stock
Kornog 2015 8y Ex Libris Quelque Part Dans Le Ciel is a French single malt drawn from a single bourbon cask. Distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2023, it spent 8 years maturing before being released at cask strength.
Its appeal lies in that very focused presentation. Only 240 bottles were produced, and with the last bottles now remaining, this is becoming a notably limited release. At Drankenshop Broekmans, whiskies like this are interesting because they show one individual cask rather than a broader, more standardised style.
At 57.9% ABV, this is a powerful bottling with a direct character. The profile points to clear peat smoke and spice, supported by lighter touches of fruit, floral notes, saltiness and wood. It is a whisky for drinkers who enjoy intensity, (…)Ledaig 2015 10y (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
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Ledaig 2015 10y (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 27/10/2026Ledaig 2015 10y shows how compelling the meeting of peat smoke and wine cask influence can be. This single malt from the island of Mull belongs to Douglas Laing's Old Particular Wine Cask Collection, a series built around single casks finished in wine casks. Here, a Tawny Port Wine Cask finish brings a darker fruit accent to Ledaig's smoky island style.
Distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2025 after 10 years, it comes from one individual cask only. With an outturn of 342 bottles, this is less about a broad distillery profile and more about one specific cask speaking clearly: smoke, fruit, spice and a subtle saline edge.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, bottlings like this are valued because they give whisky drinkers a more focused view of a familiar name. Bottled at (…)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 (…)Linkwood 2015 10y (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
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Linkwood 2015 10y (Douglas Laing Old Particular)
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 28/10/2026Linkwood 2015 10y brings out a richer side of this Speyside single malt. Bottled by Douglas Laing as part of the Old Particular range, it was finished in a Sherry Butt, adding extra depth, dried fruit and warming spice to Linkwood's naturally elegant style.
Because this is a single cask release, it feels like a very specific snapshot rather than a broad house expression. Only 349 bottles were released worldwide, giving this bottling a focused, limited character built around fruit, pastry-like richness and spice.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a particularly interesting Linkwood for drinkers who enjoy Speyside refinement but want a little more weight and gourmand depth in the glass. The 48.4% strength gives it enough structure while keeping the (…)Peat Reek Embers 8y (Blackadder - Raw Cask) Incl. Box
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Peat Reek Embers 8y (Blackadder - Raw Cask) Incl. Box
In stock
Peat Reek Embers 8y is an Islay single malt bottled by Blackadder as part of the Raw Cask range. The name gives a good indication of its direction: peat is clearly at the centre, supported by the strength and immediacy of a 57% cask strength bottling.
Its appeal lies in the way several details come together. This is a single cask whisky, distilled in 2015 and bottled in 2023 after 8 years, with a Rum Finish adding an extra layer to the maturation story. Only 234 bottles were produced, and with the last bottles now remaining, it feels very much like a specific cask captured at one moment in time.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, independent Islay releases like this are valued for their directness and individuality. Here the peat is the main voice, while lighter notes (…)Teaninich 2015 10y (Campbeltown Whisky Company - Watt Whisky)
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Teaninich 2015 10y (Campbeltown Whisky Company - Watt Whisky)
In stock
Teaninich 2015 10 year old from Watt Whisky presents a focused Highland single malt with a clear cask story. Distilled in 2015, it spent 33 months finishing in an Oloroso hogshead, giving the whisky a dry sherry influence while keeping the fruit-driven freshness described in the release.
This is a single cask bottling, released at cask strength with an alcohol level of 56.1%. Only 282 bottles were produced, so it sits firmly in the realm of small-batch, one-cask whisky rather than regular distillery output. Its appeal lies in that directness: fruit, gentle spice and malty warmth, carried with the natural intensity of the cask.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we value bottlings like this because they show a very specific side of a distillery. Here, Teaninich is seen (…)Westland 2015 10y Golden Promise "30 Years Blackadder" Incl. Box
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Westland 2015 10y Golden Promise "30 Years Blackadder" Incl. Box
Only 3 left in stock!
Westland 2015 10y Golden Promise "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 Bourbon Barrel barrels. It is a version of 70 cl and has an alcohol content of 60,1%.
Westland 2015 10y Golden Promise "30 Years Blackadder" is bottled by Blackadder.
This whiskey is a single cask bottling. What is a single cask? A single (…)
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.
