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Scottish Whisky

Whisky could easily be described as the backbone of Scottish life: economically, socially and culturally. It is thought that the process of distillation first appeared in Scotland around the 4th or 5th centuries AD and probably arrived from Ireland. However, like many other indispensable inventions from Scotland it might as well have been dreamt up here. whisky, Scotch or Uisge Beatha is widely regarded as the premier spirit in the world.

Water of Life

Uisge Beatha is the Gaelic term for 'water of life', which itself possibly stems from the Latin aqua vitae. Distilling began in monasteries, to produce medicine, now healing the soul more than any other wound.

Until the early nineteenth century the production of whisky was mainly a domestic activity based in the rural farming communities, especially the Highlands. The whisky production process helped to pay rents, use up surplus grain and providing cattle feed from spent grains.

Traditionally the season for whisky production ran from August to April, with the summer months' workload being dependent on demand. This off-peak time was known as the 'silent season'.

Robert Burns famously wrote that 'Whisky and freedom gang thegither', echoing the independent spirit of Scotland and the Scots.

In a social context whisky is to provide a warm welcome or a fond farewell to a friend or weary traveller; to usher in the birth of a new baby and mourn the passing of a loved one; and to treat ailments and close business dealings. In fact, there are countless excuses for having a dram.

Today whisky is one of the most important economic products in the UK. It is a top export product, racking up sales of over £2.2 billion and contributes around £1.8 billion to the trade balance for the food and drinks industry, making it the single most important sector in this industry.

Many have tried to imitate Scotch whisky with no success, including the Germans and the Japanese. The Welsh have recently produced their own whisky, which is good, and Ireland has a long tradition of whiskey production; but none of these is Scotch whisky.

With such a rich history and influential standing it's no wonder that there's a large amount of excellent writing on whisky, covering the tasting, making and effect of Scotland's national drink.

Whisky History

Scottish Whisky Labels

The history of whisky making is explained in Scotch Whisky: A Liquid History by Charles MacLean. MacLean is a world renowned expert on whisky and the founder of WhiskyMax.com, a site set up to encourage and get the most out of the whisky experience. He is also a member of the worldwide group of enthusiasts known as the Malt Maniacs.

John Hughes, a former marketeer with Famous Grouse has written two books about the business end of the trade. Scotland's Malt Whisky Distilleries is an illustrated account of the politics, taxation and social history associated with whisky production; and Still Going Strong: A History Of Whisky Advertising tells the tales of how some of the best known brands, like Johnnie Walker and Bells became world favourites.

The business of whisky is tied strongly to the branding and development of those brands. F. Paul Pacult's book A Double Scotch; How Chivas Regal And The Glenlivet Became Global Icons is as much a business book as a homage to two classic Scotches. Further explanation of the roles played by the characters behind Scotch whisky is found in The Whisky Barons by Allen Andrews and The Whisky Men by Gavin D. Smith.

The texts on the history of the drink and those involved in its production and promotion are complemented by the various 'guides' to the world of Scotch whisky. Gavin D. Smith's A to Z of Whisky provides definitions, sources and meanings of whisky related words; L'almanach Du Whisky Pur Malt by Wallace Milroy is in its 6th edition and now includes pointers on how to match malt whiskies with regional cuisine. Charles MacLean offers his opinions for the enthusiastic amateur in his comprehensive guide Malt Whisky. Graham Nown also caters for the expert and beginner in Malt Whisky: A Comprehensive Guide For Both Novice And Connoisseur. Michael Jackson, the Beer Hunter, brings his expertise to bear on malt whisky the way he did with beer in Michael Jackson's Malt Whisky Companion.

Whisky Tour Guides

Pot Whisky Stills, Rosebank Distillery, 1979

Originally self-published under the imprint 'Distillery Cat Books' by Japanese whisky enthusiast and expert Misako Udo is a popular title amongst aficionados, The Complete And Ultimate Guide To Scottish Whisky Distilleries For The Whisky Enthusiast.

In addition to these guides is a directory by Phillip Hills, The Scotch Whisky Directory, which analyses the flavours in Scotch and presents the findings here in a digestible format.

All good whisky explorers must be accompanied by their pocket guides and Charles MacLean does not disappoint with his Pocket Guide To Scotch Whisky, now in its 4th edition.

A map is of course a useful item, especially when all areas of Scotland are represented with a distillery worth a trip. Angels' Share Malt Whisky Map of Scotland by Neil Wilson and Jim McEwan provides a full colour map with tasting notes.

Norman S. Newton explores the whisky island of Islay and tells the story of the island from Viking visits to the production of the water of life. The story of this magical isle is also continued in Andrew Jefford's book Peat Smoke and Spirit: A Portrait of Islay and its Whiskies.

The original capital of whisky is described in The Distilleries of Campbeltown: The Rise and Fall of the Whisky Capital of the World by David Stirk, which describes an a small area that at one time was home to 29 different distilleries.

Whisky Tales

Illegal Whisky

Whisky also provokes storytelling and stories surrounding it. Yet again Charles MacLean introduces us to some great tales celebrating the loosener of the tongue in Charles MacLean's Whisky Tales: Peaty Drams to Warm the Cockles of Your Heart. Edward Burns tells of the Victorian scandal of the adulteration of whisky in public houses throughout the country in It's a Bad thing Whisky, Especially Bad Whisky.

Compton Mackenzie's Whisky Galore could not possibly be left out of a list on whisky writing, but is tempered with the true tale of the fate of the SS Politician and the lucky islanders who salvaged the cargo in Polly: The True Story Behind Whisky Galore, by Roger Hutchinson. More information is also available in Scotch on the Rocks, the original true story by Arthur Swinson.

Writer, folklorist and performer Stuart McHardy tells us Tales of Whisky and Smuggling that are both humorous and tragic; while poet Robin Laing has been inspired by The Whisky Muse.

Iain Banks, one of Scotland's most popular modern writers, takes us on his quest Raw Spirit: In Search of the Perfect Dram, where he visits some of the greatest distilleries in the world in search of the elusive nip. Neil Wilson also writes about the adventure of a group of sailing Scots as they attempted to visit all ten distilleries on Islay, Jura, Mull and Skye in The Island Whisky Trail.

For comic and bizarre writing on whisky try Gavin D. Smith's Whisky Wit and Wisdom: A Verbal Distillation, which offers a light hearted look at a very serious drink; or The Road to Craigellachie by Hans Offringa and Donner Corry, which is an unique journey of discovery and drinking.

Although Scotch whisky is the focus of this list and a reason for living we must tip our hats to our Celtic cousins in Ireland and their tasty efforts in whiskey production. The Lost Distilleries of Ireland by Brian Townsend is a comprehensive look at the history of Irish distilling (there's a similar title for Scotland, also by Brian Townsend, Scotch Missed); and The Malt Whisky File by John D. Lamond and Robin Tucek includes both Scotch and Irish malt whiskies, complete with tasting notes.

Happy reading, drinking, and Slainte Mhath!

Angels' Share Malt Whisky Map Of Scotland Neil Wilson; Jim McEwan
Compiled by top distiller, Jim McEwan of Bruichladdich, this full colour relief map highlights Scotland's whisky landscape with regional tasting notes, distillery profiles and an index of lost distilleries. On the rear of the map, contact details of Scotch whisky companies and distillery dates are listed.
Charles MacLean's Whisky Tales: Peaty Drams To Warm The Cockles Of Your Heart Charles MacLean
A lifetime's passion and knowledge of Scotch whisky is poured into an array of anecdotes about this popular drink and those who have loved it, from Robert Burns to Dave Allen. It features all sorts of 'nips' from ghost stories to poems and literary celebrations of Scotland's most generous gift to the world.
The Distilleries Of Campbeltown: The Rise And Fall Of The Whisky Capital Of The World David Stirk
Campbeltown was once the whisky capital of the world with 29 distilleries operating simultaneously in 1835. How had this remote fishing port and royal burgh become the epicentre of Scotland's greatest export? David Stirk reveals all in this insight into the movers and shakers behind this huge industry.
A Double Scotch: How Chivas Regal And The Glenlivet Became Global Icons F. Paul Pacult
An inside look at two brands that have conquered the world: Chivas Regal and The Glenlivet, the latter being the best known and highest selling single malt whisky in the world.
The Island Whisky Trail: An Illustrated Guide To The Hebridean Distilleries Neil Wilson
This guide for the whisky enthusiast covers the distilleries of the Hebrides and the west coast of Scotland. It includes photographs along with travel and local information on established distilleries, such as Bunnahabhain and Bowmore, and newer ones, such as Kilchoman on Islay.
Islay Norman S. Newton
The island of Islay lies off the coast of Argyll, and is famous for its whisky. This guide to the island contains advice and tips for visitors, including information on the history of the island, outdoor activities, and things to do and see.
L'almanach Du Whisky Pur Malt Wallace Milroy
This region-by-region, distillery-by-distillery, malt-by-malt guide concentrates on giving the enthusiast as much information as possible. The brand/malt name, water source, cask woods used for maturation and the number of stills are all included.
Malt Whisky Charles MacLean
'Malt Whisky' is a complete and fascinating guide to this popular spirit. It explores the history of malt, how it is made, why each one tastes different and how to appreciate whisky. A comprehensive guide to the distilleries is also included.
Malt Whisky: A Comprehensive Guide For Both Novice And Connoisseur Graham Nown
There are more whiskies bottled as single malts than ever before, and this book for new malt consumers will allow them to learn the subject and language of whisky, and come to appreciate its many varieties and flavours.
The Malt Whisky File John D. Lamond; Robin Tucek
This is the most comprehensive guide available to both the famous, and little known, distilleries of Scotland and Ireland and to their malt whiskies. Hundreds of detailed tasting notes are included in this expanded and revised edition.
Michael Jackson's Malt Whisky Companion Michael Jackson
Do you know your Mortlach from your Miltonduff? A Glenfiddich from a Glenlugie? Find out the differences in Michael Jackson's guide to single malts. This guide includes over 800 malts.
Peat Smoke And Spirit: A Portrait Of Islay And Its Whiskies Andrew Jefford
This is the story of Islay - from its history to the beautiful wildlife, landscape and topography of the island. Interleaved through these different narrative strands comes the story of the whiskies themselves, traced from a distant past of bothies and illegal stills to present day prosperity.
Pocket Guide To Scotch Whisky Charles MacLean
This text is for both the novice and the connoisseur. It features a history of the subject and an exploration of the distilling process, whisky categories and regions. It contains an A-Z directory of whiskies, divided into two sections.
Polly: The True Story Behind Whisky Galore Roger Hutchinson
With the help of eyewitness accounts, historical papers and official documents, Hutchinson tells the remarkable story of the SS Politician, the ship which ran aground in the Sound of Eriskay in 1941 and inspired Compton MacKenzie's Whisky Galore.
Raw Spirit: In Search Of The Perfect Dram Iain Banks
In a bid to uncover the unique spirit of the single malt whisky, author Iain Banks has decided to undertake a tour of the distilleries of his homeland. His tour of Scotland combines history, literature and landscape in an entertaining and informative account.
Scotch Missed: The Lost Distilleries Of Scotland Brian Townsend
Townsend details the ruins of almost every Victorian working distillery in Scotland, from the remnants of once-great concerns such as Saucel Distillery in Paisley to a tumble of bricks and mortar in a remote location, like Glen Tarras at Langholm.
Scotch On The Rocks: The True Story Behind 'Whisky Galore' Arthur Swinson
This is the true story about the 'Whisky Galore' boat, the SS Politician, which went down on 4th February 1941 with 240,000 bottles of whisky and £3m in Jamaican notes on board.
Scotch Whisky: A Liquid History Charles MacLean
This is the story of a traditional spirit with an intriguing past. It explores and unfolds, decade by decade, the history, secrets and untold tales surrounding Scotch whisky.
The Scotch Whisky Directory Phillip Hills
In this book, Phillip Hills has devised a simple way of presenting the flavour of a whisky by means of a simple graphic. He applies this to all of the more important Scotch whisky brands - blends and grain whiskies as well as malts - showing what flavours are to be found in each.
Scotland's Malt Whisky Distilleries John Hughes
In Scotland, between 1750 and the present day, over 700 distilleries have been legally registered to make single malt Scotch whisky. Many had very short lives. The story of every one of the 88 surviving distilleries is told in this book.
The Complete And Ultimate Guide To Scottish Whisky Distilleries: The Ultimate Companion For The Whisky Enthusiast Misako Udo
This volume is a thorough and meticulous cataloguing of the whisky industry in Scotland. Each entry includes information on the distillery's history, the type of whisky produced, the blends contributed to and the full range of single malts, information on washes, casks, and more.
Still Going Strong: A History Of Whisky Advertising John Hughes
Johnnie Walker Red Label, Black & White, Bells, J&B, Talisker, Lagavulin - all world famous brands of whiskey. In this work, John Hughes discusses their origins and their history.
Tales Of Whisky And Smuggling Stuart McHardy
This is a collection of stories about the war between the cottage whisky-makers of the Scottish Highlands and the British government. A mixture of humour and tragedy, these stories illustrate the spirit of the Highlanders.
A To Z Of Whisky Gavin D. Smith
Definitions, derivations, sources and meanings of every conceivable whisky-related word are included - from aftershots to wort by way of Irish, Islay and peat reek. Smith covers every type of whisky including Japanese.
The Whisky Barons Allen Andrews
The success of today's whisky industry is largely due to the commercial drive and foresight of a select group of whisky merchants who took the business by storm in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This is the story of how Dewar, Buchanan, Walker, Bell and Mackie established their brands.
The Whisky Distilleries Of The United Kingdom Alfred Barnard
In 1885, Alfred Barnard was secretary of 'Harper's Weekly Gazette', a journal that featured facets of the wine and spirit trade. In order to provide his readers with a history of the trade, he visited all the distilleries in Scotland, Ireland and England. This work covers Barnard's comments.
Whisky Galore Compton, Sir Mackenzie
It is 1943, and the war has brought rationing to the Hebridean Islands. It looks like the end of the world when the whisky is about to run out, and the locals are about to despair when a ship with a cargo of whisky is wrecked.
The Whisky Men Gavin D. Smith
Gavin D. Smith spent two years talking to people whose working lives have been spent in the Scotch whisky industry. He has recorded and edited the results of many conversations, which have taken place the length and breadth of Scotland, and in this book he allows the whisky-makers of Scotland to do the talking.
The Whisky Muse: Scotch Whisky In Poem And Song
Each poem and song in this anthology is accompanied by additional information, and the book is full of interesting tit-bits on the process of whisky making.
Whisky Wit & Wisdom: A Verbal Distillation Gavin D. Smith
Exploring the lighter side of whisky-making, whisky consumption, whisky over-consumption, whisky in literature, whisky and the law and even whisky and death, this book offers stories and anecdotes contributed by whisky industry personalities.