Whisky from Jack Daniels
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Jack Daniels N°7 1l
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Jack Daniels N°7 1l
Only 3 left in stock!
Jack Daniels N°7 1l is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States with a clear focus on fruit and oak. The use of New Oak gives the whiskey a noticeable woody side, while the fruit-driven element keeps the profile open and approachable.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a familiar American whiskey for those who appreciate a straightforward Tennessee style without peat or salty edges. The 1 litre bottle makes it a generous format, and at 40% alcohol it stays easy to place in a wide range of drinking moments.
A light touch of spice and a subtle floral note add some lift, but the main impression remains fruit supported by oak.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.jackdaniels.com/
The flavour (…)Jack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 2024 Incl. Box
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Jack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 2024 Incl. Box
| 2 reviews
Very last one in stock!Jack Daniel's N°7 McLaren 2024 takes the familiar Tennessee whiskey identity of Jack Daniel's and presents it in a McLaren 2024 edition with a more distinctive bottle story. It stands apart from the regular shelf presence of Jack Daniel's N°7 through its specific edition name and presentation.
Inside the bottle, this remains an American Tennessee whiskey at 40%, matured in new oak. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of bottle that speaks to people who already know the name, but want a version with a little more context and visual interest.
With only the last bottles remaining, this release has more of a temporary special-edition feel than a standard everyday listing. That makes it a thoughtful gift choice or a notable addition for (…)Jack Daniels Familypack 25cl
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Jack Daniels Familypack 25cl
In stock
Jack Daniels Familypack 25cl offers Tennessee whiskey in a smaller gift format. It is a practical choice when you want something recognisable and neatly presented, without moving to a full-size bottle. At Drankenshop Broekmans, this kind of pack works well for customers looking for a compact whiskey gift with a familiar American identity.
This whiskey comes from the United States and is linked to American oak maturation, reflected in the clearly present wood-driven side of its profile. There is no age statement here, so the focus stays on the Jack Daniels Tennessee whiskey style rather than on a specific maturation age.
At 39% alcohol and in a 25 cl format, it is a modestly sized bottle for gifting, sampling or adding a smaller Jack Daniels option to the (…)Jack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 3rd Edition 2025 Incl. Box
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Jack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 3rd Edition 2025 Incl. Box
| 1 review
In stockJack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 3rd Edition 2025 is a Tennessee whiskey release built around a specific 2025 McLaren edition. In the Drankenshop Broekmans range, it stands out less as a technical curiosity and more as a bottle with a clear edition-driven identity, tied to the familiar Jack Daniels name.
Made in the United States and bottled at 43%, it comes without an age statement and is linked to American Oak maturation. The profile places wood and spice in the foreground, with lighter fruity and floral accents behind them. As only the last bottles remain, this edition is particularly relevant for those who follow the special releases within the Jack Daniel's line.
The flavour profile is led by wood and spice, both clearly present and central to the whiskey's (…)Jack Daniels Gentleman Jack
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Jack Daniels Gentleman Jack
In stock
Jack Daniels Gentleman Jack is an American Tennessee whiskey with a flavour profile that leans clearly towards fruit. Maturation in new oak brings a gentle woody note, supported by light spice and a subtle floral touch rather than a heavy, oak-driven style.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see Gentleman Jack as a smooth, approachable side of Jack Daniels, suited to those who enjoy American whiskey with a fruit-led character and a measured cask influence. Bottled at 40%, it stays within a classic, easygoing strength while retaining its Tennessee whiskey identity.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.jackdaniels.com/
The flavour profile of Jack Daniels Gentleman Jack is led by fruit, with light notes of wood, spice and a (…)Jack Daniels Single Barrel
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Jack Daniels Single Barrel
In stock
Jack Daniels Single Barrel shows Tennessee whiskey through the lens of one individual cask. Rather than presenting a broad, blended house style, it focuses on the personality of a single barrel, with new oak playing a clear role in the character of the whiskey.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a more defined way to explore Jack Daniels. There is no age statement here; the interest lies in the barrel-driven profile, where oak and spice stand at the centre and a lighter fruit note supports the overall impression.
Bottled at 45%, it has enough presence to carry that wood and spice without turning the story into something overly complicated. More information about the brand can be found at https://www.jackdaniels.com/
The stated flavour (…)Jack Daniels N°7
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Jack Daniels N°7
Last one in stock!
Jack Daniels N°7 is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States with a straightforward and recognisable style. Matured in new oak, it shows a clear wood influence, supported by a distinctly fruity side. Lighter touches of spice and floral character sit in the background, giving the whiskey its shape without making it feel overly heavy.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is one of those American whiskey names that many customers already know, yet it still deserves to be approached for what it is: a 40% Jack Daniels expression without an age statement, focused on its familiar house character rather than on maturation age.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.jackdaniels.com/
The flavour profile centres on wood and (…)Jack Daniel's Mclaren 2024 No Giftbox
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Jack Daniel's Mclaren 2024 No Giftbox
In stock
Jack Daniel's McLaren 2024 No Giftbox is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States, presented here as a 2024 release linked to the McLaren name. This version comes without a giftbox, keeping the focus on the bottle and the whiskey itself.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this bottling stands out as a more specific Jack Daniel's release rather than a standard shelf item. With only the last bottles available, it has a sense of limited availability for those looking for this particular 2024 edition.
Bottled at 40%, it sits in a style where fruit and oak are the most noticeable elements. The American oak influence supports the woody side of the whiskey, while lighter spice and a gentle floral note add some extra detail without pushing the profile into a smoky or saline (…)Jack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 4th Edition 2026 Incl. Box
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Jack Daniel's N°7 Mclaren 4th Edition 2026 Incl. Box
Temporarily sold out
Jack Daniel's N°7 McLaren 4th Edition 2026 brings together Tennessee whiskey and Formula 1 in a limited release built around the partnership between Jack Daniel's and the McLaren Formula 1 Team. The collector design refers to McLaren's 1000th Grand Prix and the 160th anniversary of the Jack Daniel's distillery.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this bottle stands out because it carries more than a familiar whiskey name. It connects the Old No.7 character with the atmosphere of motorsport, design and brand heritage, making the 2026 edition feel clearly separate from the standard presentation.
Matured in American oak, it keeps the recognisable warmth of Tennessee whiskey while the tasting notes point toward caramel, vanilla, ripe banana and toasted oak. Fruity and (…)Jack Daniel's Oloroso Sherry Finish Single Malt 1l
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Jack Daniel's Oloroso Sherry Finish Single Malt 1l
In stock
Jack Daniel's Oloroso Sherry Finish Single Malt 1l shows a different side of Jack Daniels: a 6-year-old American single malt finished in sherry casks. The Oloroso Sherry Finish gives the whiskey a clear identity, with wood and spice playing a more prominent role than peat smoke or salty notes.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would point out to someone curious about Jack Daniels in a more malt-driven style. The combination of American origin, single malt character, 45% alcohol and sherry finishing gives it a more layered feel than the name alone might suggest.
The one-litre bottle also makes it a generous choice for sharing, especially when the table is open to discovering an American single malt with a sherry-cask accent.
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Flavorful & Balanced #2 Conquête
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Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Flavorful & Balanced #2 Conquête
On request only
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Flavorful & Balanced #2 Conquête presents Tennessee whiskey from the United States in a more focused, cask-driven form. Drawn from a single cask and bottled at cask strength, it carries its 64.5% strength with the kind of presence that makes this style stand apart from more standard releases.
American oak is central to the story here. The profile points clearly towards wood, spice and fruit, with a lighter floral note in support. That makes the Flavorful & Balanced name feel well chosen: this is a powerful whiskey, but one built around more than strength alone.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as the kind of bottle that invites a closer look at what a single barrel Jack Daniel's can express. With the last bottles (…)Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Heritage 1l Incl. Box
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Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Heritage 1l Incl. Box
Only 3 left in stock!
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Heritage 1l shows a more assertive side of this American whiskey name. The Single Barrel indication gives the bottle a clear point of difference: the focus is on the character of one individual barrel rather than a broader standard bottling.
At 50% alcohol, it has a noticeably stronger presence than a lighter everyday pour. The one-litre format adds to that sense of substance, making this Heritage release feel like a more deliberate interpretation of Jack Daniel's.
For Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle that speaks to customers who already recognise the brand but want to explore it through a more focused bottling. Single Barrel, Heritage and 50% strength are the key ideas here: familiar American whiskey, presented (…)Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Sweet Forward #2 Conquête
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Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Sweet Forward #2 Conquête
On request only
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Sweet Forward #2 Conquête is a Tennessee whiskey built around the personality of one individual cask. Bottled at cask strength at 64.5%, it presents Jack Daniel's in a more direct and concentrated form than a standard-strength release.
The Sweet Forward name sets the tone: the sweeter side is placed at the front, with clear fruit, spice and oak influence shaping the profile. Maturation in American oak supports that wood-driven structure, while no age statement is given in the supplied information.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this sits naturally among the bottles chosen for drinkers who want to explore a more distinctive single barrel side of Jack Daniel's. With only the last bottles remaining, Conquête also has the feel (…)Jack Daniel's Travelers Bold & Spicy 50cl
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Jack Daniel's Travelers Bold & Spicy 50cl
Very last one in stock!
Jack Daniel's Travelers Bold & Spicy is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States with a distinctly assertive personality. The name is a useful guide here: Bold & Spicy points toward a style where oak and spice are given real presence, supported by a strength of 53.5%.
Maturation in American Oak fits that direction well. Rather than presenting Jack Daniel's in a softer, more restrained way, this bottling puts more emphasis on structure, wood influence and a spicier edge. At Drankenshop Broekmans, it sits neatly among bottles for drinkers who already know the brand and want to explore a firmer, more outspoken side of it.
With only the last bottles remaining, there is also a sense of limited availability around this release. No age statement is given, (…)Jack Daniel's Travelers Sweet & Oaky 50cl
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Jack Daniel's Travelers Sweet & Oaky 50cl
| 1 review
In stockJack Daniel's Travelers Sweet & Oaky is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States with a clear sense of direction from the very first words on the label. It leans into sweetness and American oak, supported by a higher strength of 53.5% ABV that gives the whiskey a more assertive presence.
Rather than centring the story on an age statement, this release focuses on style and flavour. The American oak influence sits at the heart of it, with spice playing an important supporting role and lighter fruit and floral touches around the edges.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this 50cl Travelers bottling is the kind of Jack Daniel's expression we would point out to someone looking beyond the familiar core range into something stronger, woodier and more defined. With only (…)Jack Daniels Bonded Rye
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Jack Daniels Bonded Rye
In stock
Jack Daniels Bonded Rye puts rye firmly at the centre of the whiskey. That gives it a spicier, more energetic feel, with the kind of presence that suits drinkers looking for a more pronounced American whiskey style.
American Oak maturation supports that profile with a clear wood influence, while spice and gentle fruit notes keep the whiskey from feeling one-dimensional. At 50% alcohol, it has real weight in the glass and a confident delivery.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a rye for customers who enjoy American whiskey with a bit more drive, while still appreciating familiar sweeter notes such as caramel and dried fruit. Its popularity makes sense: it is bold, structured and easy to understand without being flat or simple.
The aroma (…)Jack Daniels Frank Sinatra 1l
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Jack Daniels Frank Sinatra 1l
Temporarily sold out
Jack Daniels Frank Sinatra 1l is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States with a clearly wood-driven profile. The Frank Sinatra name gives this bottle its own place within the Jack Daniels range, and the one-litre format adds a more generous presence than a standard bottle.
American oak plays an important role here, reflected in a profile where wood is the leading feature, supported by noticeable spice and a lighter touch of fruit. At 45% alcohol, it carries a little extra weight, while no age statement is given.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a fitting choice for customers who already appreciate Jack Daniels and want a version with more emphasis on oak and spice.
Additional information about the brand can be found at (…)Jack Daniels N°7 + Blanket Incl. Box
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Jack Daniels N°7 + Blanket Incl. Box
In stock
Jack Daniels N°7 + Blanket brings Tennessee whiskey from the United States in a more atmospheric presentation, with the added blanket giving the bottle a relaxed, comfort-led feel. It is the kind of package that suits quieter evenings, where the presentation matters almost as much as the whiskey itself.
Bottled at 40%, it is linked to new oak maturation, and that fits the stated flavour direction: wood is clearly present, with fruit also playing an important role. Gentle spice and a light floral note add some lift, while peat and smoke are not part of the profile given here.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a pleasant Jack Daniels N°7 option for anyone looking for a more complete, gift-ready version of the whiskey. With only the last bottles (…)Jack Daniels N°7 + Glass
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Jack Daniels N°7 + Glass
In stock
Jack Daniels N°7 + Glas pairs Jack Daniels Tennessee whiskey with a matching glass, giving the bottle a more complete presentation without making the giftpack feel overly formal.
Made in the United States and matured in American Oak, it sits in a clearly spiced style with lighter support from wood, fruit and floral tones. There is no age statement here, so the focus remains on the familiar character of Jack Daniels N°7 rather than on a specific maturation age.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this giftpack fits neatly for anyone looking for an American Tennessee whiskey with a presentable, practical touch. The included glass makes it easy to give as a gift, while still keeping the whiskey itself at the centre of attention.
Jack Daniels N°7 (…)Jack Daniels N°7 + Towel Incl. Box
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Jack Daniels N°7 + Towel Incl. Box
In stock
Jack Daniels N°7 + Towel presents Jack Daniels Tennessee whiskey in a set that includes a towel, giving it a more gift-oriented feel than a standard bottle on its own.
Made in the United States and bottled at 40%, it is linked here with new oak, a detail that fits the supplied flavour profile: wood has a clear presence, supported by fruit and a lighter touch of spice. There is no peated or salty direction indicated, so the focus remains on that wood-fruit style rather than smoke or maritime notes.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this edition stands out as a familiar Jack Daniels N°7 presentation with an added accessory, and it is currently down to the last bottles.
The supplied flavour profile points to a whiskey where wood and fruit are the (…)Jack Daniels N°7 1,5l
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Jack Daniels N°7 1,5l
In stock
Jack Daniels N°7 1.5l is an American Tennessee whiskey with a familiar, wood-led style supported by clear fruitiness and a gentle touch of spice. The larger bottle size gives it a different purpose from a standard bottle: it feels more suited to sharing, keeping in a home bar, or having a well-known whiskey ready when several glasses are being poured.
New oak plays an important role in its character, giving the whiskey a firm woody foundation. Alongside that, the profile shows a noticeable fruity side, with lighter floral and spiced accents adding some lift without changing its straightforward Tennessee identity.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we see as a dependable choice within the American whiskey range: recognisable, easy to (…)Jack Daniels N°7 35cl
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Jack Daniels N°7 35cl
In stock
Jack Daniels N°7 35cl is a Tennessee whiskey from the United States, offered here in a smaller 35cl bottle. That format is part of its appeal: convenient when you want to get to know the style, keep a compact bottle at home, or choose something smaller than the standard size.
New oak is an important part of its character. The flavour profile points most clearly toward wood and fruit, supported by lighter spice and a subtle floral note. Nothing in the supplied profile suggests peat or salinity, so the focus stays on that wood-fruit character rather than smoke or coastal notes.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would place in the conversation when someone asks for Tennessee whiskey in a practical format. With an alcoholic strength of (…)Jack Daniels N°7 3l
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Jack Daniels N°7 3l
Temporarily sold out
Jack Daniels N°7 3l is the familiar Tennessee whiskey from Jack Daniels presented in a striking large bottle. At three litres, it is clearly made for sharing moments rather than quiet sampling: a bottle for the bar, the party table or a home selection where a well-known American whiskey has its place.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this release stands out through that generous format and the recognisable style behind it. It is a 40% whiskey from the United States, matured in new oak, with wood playing a clear role alongside a fruit-driven side and a lighter touch of spice and floral character.
The result is a whiskey with a straightforward identity, made more noticeable here by the impressive 3 litre presentation.
Additional information about (…)Jack Daniels N°7 Mini Glass Bottle
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Jack Daniels N°7 Mini Glass Bottle
In stock
Jack Daniels N°7 Mini Glass Bottle brings the Jack Daniels name into a compact glass bottle, with N°7 at the centre of the presentation. The small format is the main point here: it is a neat way to choose a smaller bottle rather than opening or gifting a full-size one.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this American whiskey fits well for customers looking for a practical miniature, whether for discovery, gifting or adding to a drinks selection. Bottled at 40% alcohol, it sits firmly within the classic whiskey category while keeping the presentation straightforward and recognisable.
No specific tasting notes have been supplied for this miniature. The available information only confirms that it is an American whiskey from Jack Daniels, bottled at 40% alcohol.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about whisky
What is whisky?
Whisky is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains (such as barley, corn, rye or wheat) and then aged in wooden casks, usually oak. The result is a complex drink with aromas that can range from fruity and floral to smoky, spicy or woody.
Generally speaking, a drink must meet the following basic requirements to be called whisky:
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Made from grains
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Fermented with yeast
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Distilled to a maximum of ±94.8% alcohol (so that flavour is retained)
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Matured in wooden casks
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Bottled with a minimum of 40% alcohol
Which whisky is tasty?
Which whisky is good? Which whisky is good? The answer to these questions is so specific and so personal that we cannot possibly answer them for everyone. In our range of whisky you will find more than 3,000 bottlings, each with their own taste and profile, to objectively identify a universal "good whisky" is impossible.
You can look for the whisky you like in different ways. Either you start from whisky with a fairly flat and neutral flavour profile and expand and explore from there, but other enthusiasts prefer to start at the extremes to quickly discover what they absolutely do not like. We would not recommend that second approach, as whisky with a distinct character is often an "aqcuired taste", something you gradually work towards and often learn to develop an appreciation for as you build your palate.
Are you looking for a whisky for someone else and have no idea what they drink and what they like? If so, limit yourself to whisky with a light and balanced flavour profile. With most of our whisky, you will find a flavour profile where the whisky is rated from 0 to 3 on six basic pillars: peaty, spicy, salty, woody, floral and fruity. If you blindly buy a whisky for someone else, limit yourself to whisky where none of the six pillars slip through. If you do know what kind of whisky the lucky person drinks, then with a bit of luck, you can also find that whisky in our range and from there you can look for other whiskies that have a similar flavour profile.
Is whisky Scotch or Irish?
Both Scotland and Ireland claim the origins of whisky, and both countries have a rich history of distilling it. The earliest written mention of whisky comes from Ireland, from the 12th century. But Scotland has brought the art of whisky making to perfection and today is famous worldwide for its whiskies. Ultimately, whisky is both Scottish and Irish, each with its own unique traditions and flavours.
What is Scotch whisky?
In addition to the basic rules to speak of whisky, there are a number of additional conditions for Scotch whisky.
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Must be wholly produced and matured in Scotland
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Aged for at least 3 years in oak casks
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Only water and caramel colour (E150a) may be added
Which Scottish regions are famous for their whisky?
Scotland is divided into a number of regions, each of which makes its own signature whisky. Exactly how many there are depends on how accurately you want to describe them.
On the Scottish mainland, we talk about
- Highland (Ben Nevis, Ardnamurchan, Edradour, ...)
- Lowland (Johnny Cree, Lochlea, Auchentoshan, ...)
- Campbeltown (Springbank, Kilkerran, Longrow, ...)
- Speyside (Benriach, Tomintoul, Glenglassaugh, ...)
As the first island, Islay is always mentioned separately. From Islay come mainly peated whiskies such as Bowmore, Port Ellen, Bruichladdich and Ardbeg.
You will also find a number of islands around Scotland, called the "Islands". Within that group, another distinction is often made between
- Isle of Arran
- Isle of Harris
- Jura
- Mull (Ledaig, Tobermory, ...)
- Orkney (Highland Park, Scapa, ...)
- Skye (Talisker, ...)
What is Irish whiskey?
To speak of Irish whiskey, the drink must meet a number of additional conditions.
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Produced and matured in Ireland
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Aged for at least 3 years in wooden casks
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Often triple-distilled, but this is not compulsory
What is American whiskey?
American whiskey is also again subject to a number of specific rules, in addition to the basic guidelines to speak of whiskey.
For bourbon whiskey:
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At least 51% corn in the grain mix
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Matured in new charred oak barrels
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Distilled to a maximum of 80% alcohol
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In the barrel a maximum of 62.5% alcohol
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No additives allowed (except water)
For rye whiskey, at least 51% rye must be used.
Tennessee whiskey follows the same guidelines as bourbon, but must be filtered through charcoal.
What is the difference between "whisky" and "whiskey"
The difference in terminology is related to the country of origin. In principle, "whiskey" is always referred to, except when spirits from the United States or Ireland are involved. In those countries, the term "whiskey" is consistently used.
What is the difference between single malt, blended and grain whisky?
Single malt whisky comes from a single distillery and is made exclusively from malted barley. These whiskies often have a distinct and characterful flavour profile. Blended whisky is a mix of different whiskies (both malt and grain) and tends to be softer and more approachable. Grain whisky is made from other grains such as corn or wheat and is often used in blends, but also exists as a separate bottling with a lighter style.
What is a "no age statement" whisky?
If a whisky is marked "NAS" or "No Age Statement", it means that no age is stated on the bottle.
When an age is mentioned on the bottle, it must, according to the rules, always be the youngest whisky in the blend and not the age that is most represented percentage-wise in the blend. A producer will therefore deliberately choose not to state an age on his bottle in two cases: when an old whisky is blended with a small proportion of younger whisky, or when young whisky is blended with a proportion of older whisky. In the first case, he does not want to put a young age on his bottle if his blend contains mainly older whisky, and in the second case, marketing-wise it is more interesting to go out with that particle of older whisky.
What is a "single cask" whisky?
A single cask means that the whisky in the bottle comes from only one cask and was not blended with another whisky from another cask. Because the content comes from a single cask, the number of bottles depends on the size of the cask and the evaporation of the product (the so-called Angel's Share), the number of bottles is limited (and often numbered) and no new bottles of this specific reference come onto the market. A single cask is thus always unique in flavour and profile, and never quite comparable to similar bottles that do not come from the same cask.
What is a whisky at "cask strength" ?
A cask strength whisky is not diluted with water before bottling, but goes straight from the cask into the bottle and therefore retains the alcohol percentage during/after cask maturation. One of the advantages of cask strength whisky is that as a drinker you can decide how strong you like your whisky by diluting or not diluting it with a little water yourself according to your preference, rather than the producer having already done this for you. Cask Strength whisky has a higher alcohol content and this can sometimes suppress the subtlety of the whisky.
What does the term non-chill filtered mean?
The term non-chill filtered, or well-known variations of it such as "unchilled filtered" or "not cold filtered", indicates that the spirit was not cold filtered before bottling. During cold filtration ("chill filtration"), the whisky is cooled to around freezing point and then filtered. This process removes certain substances from the spirit such as fatty acids, proteins and esters.
Whisky that does not undergo that specific filtering process has a number of specific properties: they often have more character, the mouthfeel is fuller and oilier and more flavour compounds are retained. Because they have more body, they often feel creamier on the palate and the aromas are more intense. The disadvantage of skipping cold filtering is that the whisky can be cloudier.
Most whisky on the market is chill filtered because it produces a clear and consistent spirit in the bottle and in the glass, even with the addition of ice or water. That consistency leads to better presentation and less chance of consumer complaints. Unchill filtered whisky is especially popular with aficionados and purists for the same reason, because they know and understand why their whisky is the way it is. For this reason, "chill filtered" is usually not explicitly stated, but "unchill filtered" is.
What is a peated whisky?
The term "peat", often also described as "smoky", "smoked" or "peated" is part of the flavour profile that is very typical and recognisable in whisky.
Peated whisky evokes scents of a seaside campfire, a smoky charcoal grill, and sometimes even medicinal, salty notes reminiscent of the Scottish coast. These whiskies have a depth and character that either enchant or terrify aficionados.
Peat is an organic material made up of compressed plant remains, formed over centuries in boggy areas. In Scotland, where peated whisky originated, peat has traditionally been used as a fuel. This later became an integral part of the whisky-making process and resulted in the unique smoky flavour these whiskies are known for.
The distinctive flavour of peated whisky is created in the malt phase of whisky production. Barley is first soaked in water and then spread out to germinate. During this process, the barley begins to develop sugars that are later needed for fermentation. Once the barley starts germinating, drying is interrupted by a fire of burning peat. The smoke soaks into the barley and impregnates it with phenols - the chemical compounds responsible for the smoky flavour.
Which whisky suits my taste (sweet, smoky, fruity...)?
Whisky can be roughly categorised by flavour profiles. Do you like sweet? Then go for whiskies with notes of vanilla, caramel or honey (often matured in bourbon casks). Prefer fruity? Choose Speyside or Irish whiskies with fresh apple and citrus aromas. If you are a fan of powerful, smoky flavours, then Islay whiskies are a good choice. Those who like spicy or woody notes may look more towards whiskies with sherry barrel maturation.
Which whisky is good for beginners?
For beginners, accessible, smooth whiskies without too much smoke or complexity are ideal. Think fruity and slightly sweet styles, such as many Irish whiskies or soft Scottish Speyside whiskies. These often have notes of apple, honey and vanilla and are easy to drink. Avoid strongly smoky (peated) whiskies at first, as that flavour is too intense for some. From there, you can gradually discover which styles suit you best.
Which whisky makes a good gift?
A good gift whisky is usually a safe, accessible choice that will appeal to many people. For example, choose a well-known single malt with a smooth and balanced profile, or a nice bottle in a gift box.
Do you know the recipient's tastes? Then you can choose more specifically: a smoky whisky for lovers of powerful flavours, or a fruity and mellow variant for beginners. In doubt? Then you will always be right with a classic, non-smoky whisky.
What does the designation PPM mean in a whisky?
The abbreviation PPM is used to describe the intensity of the peat flavour in a peated whisky. The abbreviation PPM stands for Phenol Parts Per Million, and the higher the number the more intense the peat flavour is. A whisky with 10 PPM has a subtle smoky character while a whisky with 50 PPM or higher can be a real smoke bomb.
How strong is whisky?
When people talk about the "strength" of liquor, they usually mean its alcohol content (ABV).
Whisky is a regulated product, meaning that a number of conditions must be met before the final product can be called "whisky". One of the rules is the minimum alcohol content: in the EU (including Scotch and Irish whiskey), the US and Canada, whisky must contain a minimum of 40% alcohol by volume to be called whisky.
Many standard bottlings are around 40-43%, some quality or "non-chill filtered" releases choose 46% ABV. In the US, bourbon and rye are also common at 45-50% ABV (e.g. Bottled-in-Bond at 50%). In Japan, 40-43% is common. "Cask strength" or "barrel proof" whiskies are bottled undiluted and are therefore higher in strength: usually between about 50% and 65%. Regional exceptions exist, such as India where many whiskies are bottled around 42.8% ABV,
For average commercial whiskies, 40-46% is the normal range, and you will find most whiskies within that range.
What does the designation "proof" mean in whisky?
You may also have seen "proof" written on bottles, for example "100 proof". It is an alternative way of indicating the strength of whisky and is only used in the US today. The formula is thankfully simple; the "proof" value is actually double the alcohol content (ABV). In other words, a bottle of "100 proof" corresponds to 50% alcohol.
What is meant by "small batch"?
"Small batch" is a term indicating that the whisky was produced in relatively small quantities per batch (production run). Instead of huge volumes being mixed continuously, the distiller selected only a limited number of casks or ingredients to bring together. The idea behind it is to have more control over quality, flavour and consistency, for example by blending a few carefully chosen casks to achieve a specific flavour profile.
Small Batch often suggests craftsmanship and attention to detail, but it is not a strictly regulated term. So there is no set definition of exactly how much "small" is, and it can vary greatly from producer to producer.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive whisky?
The price difference is often in factors such as ageing time, casks used, production method and rarity. More expensive whiskies have usually matured for longer or come from special casks, providing more complexity and depth. However, this does not mean that a more expensive whisky is always "tastier". Taste remains personal, and there are also affordable whiskies of excellent quality that perfectly suit your preference.
What does the age on a whisky bottle mean?
The age on a whisky bottle indicates the minimum time the whisky has been aged in cask. In blends, this means that the youngest whisky in the blend is that age.
During that maturation, the whisky develops its flavour, colour and aromas. The longer the ageing, the more influence the cask has on the final result.
Which whisky is suitable as an investment?
If you are looking for a bottle as an investment, the references we refer to as "Collector" are often a good choice. However, it is no guarantee of success, some bottles rise in values, others do not and in a few cases a sudden hype drives the price up suddenly. For this reason, always keep Jan Broekmans' own advice in mind: don't buy whisky as an investment that you would never want to drink yourself. If the price doesn't go up, at least you'll still have the pleasure of drinking them yourself.
Is older whisky always better?
Not necessary. Older whisky can be more complex and softer, but sometimes loses fresh or fruity characteristics. Quality depends on many factors, such as the cask and the conditions in which the whisky matures.
Ultimately, "better" is a matter of taste. Some younger whiskies can be surprisingly lively and full of character, perfectly matching what you are looking for.
Does whisky mature further in the bottle?
No, whisky matures only in cask. Once the whisky is bottled, the maturation process stops completely.
In principle, the flavour remains stable, although an opened bottle can change slightly after a long time due to contact with oxygen. This is why it is best to store whisky tightly sealed and out of direct sunlight.
Is whisky going bad?
Whisky is a strong drink with a high alcohol content, which means it has a virtually unlimited shelf life. If you have a bottle of whisky that is properly sealed, you can keep it for years, even decades, without its taste or quality deteriorating. However, the flavour can change if the whisky is exposed to light, air or temperature fluctuations. If there is too much air in the bottle relative to liquid then "oxidation" can also occur, directly affecting its flavour and intensity.
So an open bottle of whisky will often lose some of its aromas over time, but it will not "go bad".
Make sure you store your bottle in a cool, dark place and seal it well after each use, and that the bottle is always at least a quarter full (the less air there is in the bottle, the less oxidation can occur). Leftovers are best poured into smaller sample bottles that can be sealed well from the outside air (apothecary bottles are ideal, glass decanters are not), or you can artificially fill the original bottle with, say, marbles to reduce the volume of air in the bottle.
What is an independent bottler?
Independent bottlers are entrepreneurs who buy whisky from existing distilleries and then bottle or blend it themselves. They are not involved in the actual production process, but they take care of the further development of the whisky. This means they select the casks themselves and decide how long the whisky matures, in order to create a unique final product.
Some whiskies are sold exclusively to independent bottlers and are not used for the original distillery's range. Examples of such bottlers include Signatory, Douglas Laing, and Cadenhead's.
There are also 'secret bottlings', where the bottler does not reveal which distillery the casks come from.
Independent bottlings are usually single casks. They are often not coloured, are usually non-chill filtered and very limited in availability, which only makes the product more unique. This constitutes a delightful change from regular whiskies, you could say.
In which glass do you pour whisky?
The classic glass in which whisky is very often poured is called a tumbler. This is a low, straight and wide glass. Some people prefer to drink their whisky from these glasses because of the tradition and the feel it gives. This glass has a wide, cylindrical shape and a thick bottom, making it perfect to use when mixing whisky with other drinks like cola or water, for example, or when you want to add ice to your whisky. It is most often used with bourbon and blended whisky.
However, connoisseurs prefer to opt for a tulip-shaped glass, as it bundles the aromas better in the nose. Snifters and copita glasses, for example, have such a shape, but are still more commonly associated with cognac and sherry. The general consensus therefore seems to be that the Glencairn glass is still usually the best choice to maximise the better whisky. The advantage of all three is that you can hold the glass in such a way that your body heat will not warm up the spirit in your glass.
Do you drink whisky with ice?
The most loaded question is whether you should drink whisky at room temperature or "on the rocks". We take no position on right or wrong and advise everyone to enjoy it in the way that suits them best. If you like a particular whisky better on ice rather than at room temperature, who are we to deprive you of that pleasure?
That said, there are some differences: a room-temperature whisky evaporates more easily, making the nose more intense as with a chilled whisky. In turn, using ice dilutes the whisky, so the flavour and intensity can diminish once that ice starts to melt in your glass. Whisky stones can be a good alternative if you don't like a whisky at room temperature but at the same time don't want your spirit to be diluted by the melting ice in your glass either.
Should you add water to whisky?
Adding water to whisky is not a must, but it can help release aromas better. Especially with whiskies with a higher alcohol content, a few drops of water can make the flavour more accessible.
Most important is personal preference: drink whisky the way you like it best, pure, with water or possibly with ice.
What is a "dram"?
A "dram" usually refers to one serving of whisky. The quantity of a dram is around 3cl, some serve 2.5cl and others go up to 3.5cl. From a 5cl sample or mini-bottle, you basically get just 2 drams, enough to discover a spirit for two.
Handy to remember if you ever want to organise a tasting yourself: from a standard 70cl bottle with a standard filling level you get:
- 35 drams of 2cl (tip: the bottle pilot on our webshop doses exactly 2cl)
- 28 drams of 2.5cl
- 23 drams of 3cl
- 20 drams of 3.5cl
However, do not count too strictly when organising a tasting, and always keep a few drams in reserve in case there is a spillage when pouring or the bottle does not contain exactly 70cl spirit (with older bottlings, the filling level can decrease slightly over time due to natural processes). And don't forget to include the host of your tasting, of course!
What does "angel's share" mean?
The term "angel's share" refers to the part of a whisky (or other matured spirit) that slowly evaporates in the barrel during the maturation process. As the spirit is aged in wooden barrels for years, a small amount of alcohol and water escapes through the pores of the wood each time. This loss can amount to about 2% per year, depending on factors such as climate, storage location and barrel type. The name is meant poetically: it is said that this part is "for the angels".
Although technically a loss for the distiller, the angel's share plays a crucial role in the development of flavour and aroma. The evaporation concentrates the residual flavours, and the contact with the wood provides complexity such as vanilla, spice and fruity notes. In warmer climates (such as rum), the angel's share tends to be greater, resulting in faster maturation than, for example, in cooler whisky regions such as Scotland.
How do I get started on Scotch whisky?
Many people assume that a more expensive bottle of Scotch whisky is automatically better. It sounds logical: the higher the price, the better the quality. But in reality, the difference between a bottle of a few tens and one of thousands of euros is rarely purely in the taste. What you pay has much more to do with age, scarcity, marketing and reputation than with what you actually taste in your glass.
To understand this properly, it helps to look at Scotch in different "levels". Each level tells you something about what you are drinking and, more importantly, what you are paying for, but not every epicurean goes through all these levels.
You can read all about it in our blog post Why an expensive Scotch doesn't necessarily taste better - the different levels of Scotch.
How do I get started on Irish whiskey?
At one time, Irish whiskey dominated the world. In the late 19th century, more than 70% of all whiskey came from Ireland. But wars, trade conflicts and prohibition in the US caused a dramatic decline. By 1980, barely two distilleries remained. Today, that picture has been completely reversed. Ireland once again has dozens of distilleries and the range of offerings ranges from simple entry-level bottles to rare collector's items costing thousands of euros.
But as always, more expensive does not automatically mean better. What do you actually get for your money? And from what point do you mainly pay for prestige? You can read more about it in our blog post Irish whiskey explained: from pub classics to million-dollar bottles.
How do I get started with Japanese whisky?
In 1918, a young Japanese student Masataka Taketsuru left for Scotland with one clear goal: to learn how to make whisky. He studied in Glasgow, apprenticed at several distilleries and obsessively noted down every detail of the process. Those notes would later form the basis of the Japanese whisky industry.
Today, Japanese whisky is a phenomenon. Bottles go under the hammer for tens of thousands of euros, distilleries can barely keep up with demand and the number of producers has exploded. But at the same time, that also makes it confusing: where do you start if you just want to drink it?
You'll discover all about it in our blog post Japanese whisky explained: from entry-level to untraceable.
Where can I buy whisky?
Basic whisky and no-name whisky can be found in any shop or supermarket, but you undoubtedly want something more. Then you're in the right place at Drankenshop Broekmans, because our range of almost 3,000 whiskies covers all brands, all distilleries, all bottlers, all flavour profiles and all price ranges.
