The difference between malt and blended malt lies in the composition of the grains used to produce the whiskey. Malt whiskey is made exclusively from malted barley, while blended malt whiskey is a combination of malt whiskies from different distilleries.
Malt whiskey is often considered the purest form of whiskey, as it uses only barley as the base grain. The barley is malted, which involves soaking it in water, allowing it to germinate, and then drying it with hot air. This process activates enzymes in the barley that convert starches into fermentable sugars, which are then used to produce alcohol during the fermentation process. The malted barley is then mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged in oak barrels to create the distinct flavors and aromas associated with single malt whiskey.
On the other hand, blended malt whiskey is a combination of malt whiskies from different distilleries. This allows for a greater diversity of flavors and characteristics in the final product. Blended malt whiskies can be created by carefully selecting and mixing whiskies from different distilleries to achieve a desired flavor profile. The blending process requires expertise and a deep understanding of the individual whiskies involved to create a harmonious and balanced blend.
Blended malt whiskies often aim to showcase a range of flavors, combining the unique qualities of different malt whiskies to create a more complex and multi-dimensional drinking experience. The proportions of each malt whiskey in the blend can vary, and the blender's craftsmanship plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor balance.
The use of different grains in blended malt whiskies allows for a wider range of flavor profiles compared to single malt whiskey. While barley is still the predominant grain, other grains such as corn, rye, and wheat can also be used as base grains in the production of blended malt whiskey. These different grains contribute their own distinct flavors and characteristics, resulting in a more diverse and complex whiskey.
The main difference between malt and blended malt whiskey lies in the composition of the grains used. Malt whiskey is made exclusively from malted barley, while blended malt whiskey combines malt whiskies from different distilleries, potentially using a variety of grains. The blending process allows for a greater range of flavors and characteristics in blended malt whiskey, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more diverse and complex drinking experience.