Blended Malt

A blended malt is a type of whisky that consists of malt whiskies from multiple distilleries, and which consists exclusively of malt whisky without grain whisky. Previously it was often referred to as vatted malt.

Definition

• A blend of malt whiskies from at least two distilleries.
• No grain whisky is included in the blend.
• Often used to highlight variations in flavor from different distilleries.

Production and composition

• The composition is up to the producer and can vary significantly from batch to batch.
• The malt components can come from different geographic regions and styles, providing a broad palette of aromas and flavors.
• The difference from a single malt is that blended malt does not originate from a single distillery, but from several.

Flavor and characteristics

• Typical features include fruity and sweet notes, caramel, vanilla, malt, honey, spices and possibly light smoke.
• Variations can range from light and elegant to fuller-bodied and more complex.

Comparison with other types of whiskies

• Single Malt: a whisky from one distillery based on malted barley.
• Blended Scotch Whisky: may contain both malt and grain from several distilleries; blended malt is a subcategory without grain.
• Blended Malt: the category where all components are malt whisky, and where the distilleries come from different producers.

History and naming

• Previously known as vatted malt or vatted malt whisky in many markets.
• As the industry evolved, the term became more precise and widely accepted as blended malt or blended malt Scotch Whisky in regulated terminology.

Serving and style tips

• Recommended serving: enjoy at room temperature or lightly chilled in small glasses.
• Glassware: tulip- or nosing glasses to collect aroma and flavor.
• Serving ideas: ideal as an aperitif or as part of a tasting set in a whisky tasting.