Scotland - Scottish Whisky Region

The Scottish homeland of Scotch whisky is officially divided into five regions according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA): Campbeltown, Highlands, Islay, Lowlands, and Speyside. A map showing the locations of the distilleries can also be found on the SWA website.

Scotch whisky is a very complex drink, and the region where it is produced has a significant influence on its taste and aromas. Here are some of the most important regional characteristics of Scotch whisky:

• Campbeltown : This small coastal town in Scotland was once a center of whisky production. Campbeltown whiskies typically have a salty and peaty character, derived from the proximity to the sea and the peat used in the region. Campbeltown whiskies are diverse and full of flavor. Notes of salt, smoke, fruit, vanilla, and toffee blend together in whiskies with a robust and rich character.
  
• Highlands : The Highlands are Scotland's largest whisky region, and whiskies from this area boast a wide variety of aromas and flavors. They can range from floral and fruity to malty and peaty. This region, which also includes the islands, offers a diverse range of flavors and characters. From lighter whiskies to salty coastal malts, the Highlands offer a Scotch to suit every palate.
• Islay : This island off the coast of Scotland and its whiskies have a very smoky and peaty flavor, resulting from the use of locally sourced peat. Islay is a magical island where the majority of the population is involved in whisky production. Famous for its fiery, heavily peated whiskies.
  
• Lowlands : The Lowlands are Scotland's southernmost whisky region, and whiskies from this area typically have a mild and sweet flavor derived from the use of malted barley. Soft and smooth malts are characteristic of this region, offering a gentle, elegant palate reminiscent of grass, honeysuckle, cream, ginger, toffee, toast, and cinnamon. These whiskies are often lighter in character and are perfect as an aperitif.
  
• Speyside : This region in northeast Scotland is renowned for its single malt whiskies. Speyside whiskies typically have a sweet and fruity flavor, resulting from the use of malted barley and extended maturation in oak casks. The most densely populated whisky region in the world, Speyside is famous for its fertile valleys and, of course, the River Spey. Speyside whiskies are known for being sparing with peat and bursting with fruit. Apple, pear, honey, vanilla, and spices all play a role in the expressions from this region, which are usually matured in sherry casks.