Whisky production from grain to glass

⁨⁨Introduction

⁨How does Scotch whisky transform from barley to the golden dram swirling evocatively in your glass? In this article, Scotch whisky expert and bartender Ervin Trykowski breaks down the process, sharing the craft behind this iconic spirit.

The Magic of Scotland

Scotland, a fiercely proud country with a population of 5.5 million, produces more whisky than the rest of the world combined. How can that be so? The answer is, like a fine Scotch, a blend of several things: good fortune, incredible craftsmanship, and visionary minds. From Helen Cummings, who pioneered whisky-making, to the Walkers of Johnnie Walker fame who brought Scotch to the world, it’s a story of passion and ingenuity. But it’s not just history that makes Scotch special. Distillers have spent over 500 years perfecting their craft, staying true to tradition while embracing sustainability. By 2040, many aim to achieve Net-Zero emissions. Scotch isn’t just a drink; it’s a legacy.

The Process: Malting, Milling, and Mashing

It all starts with barley. Malting is a process where the grain is tricked into thinking it’s spring, germinating to release its natural sugars. Peat smoke or hot air is used to dry the barley, giving Scotch its signature smoky character.

Next, the barley is turned into grist, a coarse flour, in mills that have stood the test of time – many for over a century. Finally, the grist is mixed with water in a mash tun. Different water temperatures extract the sugars, creating a sweet liquid known as wort. This is the foundation of the whisky’s flavour.

Marrying, Blending, and Bottling

Marrying is the harmonious union of casks from a single distillery. The age on the bottle reflects the youngest whisky in the mix – no shortcuts, no exceptions.

Blending is where artistry meets precision. Blenders combine single malt and single grain whiskies from across Scotland, sometimes up to 40 distilleries, to craft blends like Johnnie Walker. Ensuring consistency across every bottle is a feat of craftsmanship, akin to painting the same masterpiece with an ever-changing palette.

Single malt whiskies are always bottled in Scotland, preserving their authenticity. Blends, however, can be bottled internationally, bringing Scotch to every corner of the globe.

A Lasting Legacy

From its humble beginnings to global acclaim, Scotch whisky is a testament to patience, craftsmanship, and enduring passion. Every dram tells a story, every sip connects you to a tradition that has spanned centuries.