Whisky
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Kilchoman Rockside 11y Incl. Box
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Kilchoman Rockside 11y Incl. Box
In stock
Kilchoman Rockside 11y is an Islay single malt with a very specific sense of place. The barley is grown exclusively on Rockside farm on Islay, and the full production journey, from cultivation to bottling, takes place on site. That gives this whisky its Single Farm Single Malt identity.
Eleven years in bourbon and sherry casks bring together gentle peat smoke, fruit, citrus freshness and spice. With a light peat level of 20 PPM, the smoke stays refined rather than dominant, while bottling at 46%, without chill filtration and without added colouring, keeps the whisky close to its natural character.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a Kilchoman with a particularly clear story: unmistakably Islay, yet shaped by one farm, one production chain and a (…)Maclean's Nose
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Maclean's Nose
In stock
Maclean's Nose is a blended Scotch whisky with a clear west coast Scottish identity. Its make-up gives it real substance: 70% malt whisky, supported by a generous proportion of casks that previously held sherry. It does not come across as a neutral blend, but as a whisky with weight, colour and a distinct point of view.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see Maclean's Nose as the kind of blend that deserves a proper introduction. It is bottled at 46%, non-chill filtered and presented at natural colour, choices that help preserve the whisky's original depth and texture.
There is also thought behind the presentation. This limited edition consists of 25,000 bottles, and the label is made from ground barley paper, a by-product of whisky production. It is a small (…)Symington's Blend 10y (Signatory Vintage Various)
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Symington's Blend 10y (Signatory Vintage Various)
In stock
Symington's Blend 10y is a ten-year-old blended Scotch bottled by Signatory, shaped by a combination of bourbon and sherry cask influence. It is a straightforward whisky in the best sense: clear in style, approachable, and built around gentle fruit, honeyed notes and toasted wood.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would point out to someone looking for a Scotch blend with a little more substance than a very basic everyday whisky, but without peat or heavy oak taking over.
Bottled at 46%, it keeps a good sense of presence while remaining easy to enjoy. The bourbon and sherry elements sit behind the whisky rather than dominating it, giving warmth and a lightly fruity, softly spiced impression.
The tasting profile brings (…)Ardnamurchan Cask Strength
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Ardnamurchan Cask Strength
In stock
Ardnamurchan Cask Strength is a Highland single malt with a direct, coastal personality, bottled at 57.7% cask strength. It is presented without chill filtration and with natural colour, keeping the whisky close to its original form rather than smoothing away its edges.
The make-up of the spirit is one of the most telling details here: 87% peated spirit and 13% unpeated spirit. That gives the whisky a firm smoky backbone while still leaving room for fruit, spice and maritime depth. Maturation is mainly in bourbon casks, with a smaller sherry cask component, adding shape without taking the focus away from the distillery character.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to place in front of customers who enjoy robust single malt with a (…)Glasgow 1770 Peated Rich & Smoky
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Glasgow 1770 Peated Rich & Smoky
Only 3 left in stock!
Glasgow 1770 Peated Rich & Smoky is a Scottish Lowland single malt with a name that sets the tone straight away: this is the richer, smokier side of Glasgow. Bottled at 46%, it has enough strength to carry its style while remaining clear and approachable in presentation.
Maturation in bourbon and sherry casks gives the whisky a solid framework. The profile points towards pronounced fruit and spice, with lighter touches of wood and floral character in support. Rather than being defined by smoke alone, it brings that smoky identity into a broader, fuller single malt setting.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this Glasgow 1770 as a good fit for customers looking for a Scottish single malt with more intensity than a softer Lowland style, while still keeping a (…)Ardbeg Wee Beastie 5y
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Ardbeg Wee Beastie 5y
In stock
Ardbeg Wee Beastie 5y is the youngest whisky from Ardbeg, and that youthful edge is very much part of its identity. This Islay single malt is built around raw smoky power, with a bold, direct style that does not try to soften its personality.
Matured for five years in ex-bourbon and oloroso sherry casks, it brings together peat smoke, salinity, cracked black pepper, tar and a savoury meaty note. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see Wee Beastie as a particularly vivid way to discover Ardbeg's more untamed side: compact in age, but far from shy in character.
It can be enjoyed neat, with a splash of water or over a few large ice cubes. The producer also suggests using it in a Bramble Bite cocktail with fresh lemon juice, vanilla syrup, blackberry liqueur and mint, (…)Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry 15y Incl. Box
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Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry 15y Incl. Box
Only 2 left in stock!
Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry 15y is a Highland single malt where maturation plays a central role. The use of both bourbon and sherry casks gives this whisky a different angle from a malt shaped by bourbon casks alone, while keeping away from a heavily peated or coastal style.
With 15 years of age, this Glenmorangie has had time to develop a composed cask-influenced character. At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see it as a Scottish single malt for drinkers who enjoy a style built around gentle fruit, light spice, subtle wood and a small floral touch rather than smoke or salt.
The sherry reference in the name is important here. It points towards a richer side of Glenmorangie, supported by sherry cask influence, yet the 43% strength keeps the whisky in a measured and (…)Auchentoshan 12y Double Cask Incl. Box
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Auchentoshan 12y Double Cask Incl. Box
In stock
Auchentoshan 12y Double Cask is a Scottish single malt from the Lowland region, carrying a clear 12 year age statement. The name places the focus on cask influence through its Double Cask identity, while keeping the whisky straightforward and easy to place.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would point out to someone looking for a Scottish single malt with a defined origin, stated age and a clear maturation theme. Bottled at 40%, it sits in a classic style, with the Lowland provenance and 12 years of maturation giving it a more specific sense of place and structure.
Its appeal lies in that clarity: Auchentoshan, Scotland, Lowland, 12 years old and presented as a Double Cask single malt. Nothing needs to be overcomplicated for the whisky (…)Aberlour 14y Double Cask Tube Incl.
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Aberlour 14y Double Cask Tube Incl.
In stock
Aberlour 14y Double Cask is a Scottish Speyside single malt with a very clear point of interest: fourteen years of maturation shaped by both bourbon and sherry casks. Rather than presenting itself as a heavily technical whisky, it lets that double cask influence define the style in a straightforward and appealing way.
In the selection at Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we would introduce as a well-placed Speyside malt: mature enough to carry a 14-year age statement, bottled at 40%, and built around a flavour profile where fruit takes the lead while wood, spice and floral tones remain in a supporting role.
There is no peated or salty emphasis indicated here, so the focus stays on the fruit-driven side of the whisky and the interplay between (…)Aberlour Suthainn Sherry Cask
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Aberlour Suthainn Sherry Cask
In stock
Aberlour Suthainn Sherry Cask presents a Speyside single malt with a clear sherry-cask direction, while still showing the broader influence of Bourbon + Sherry maturation. That combination suggests a whisky built around roundness, fruit and spice rather than smoke or coastal sharpness.
At 48% ABV, it has enough strength to carry its flavour profile with confidence. The main emphasis sits on fruity and spiced tones, with wood and floral elements playing a lighter supporting role. There is no peated or salty accent in the supplied profile, so the focus remains firmly on Speyside malt character and cask influence.
Within the selection at Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Aberlour we would introduce to someone looking for a sherry-led single malt without (…)Alness Blended 12y Tb (Thompson Brothers Blend)
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Alness Blended 12y Tb (Thompson Brothers Blend)
On request only
Alness 12 Year Old from Thompson Brothers is a Scottish blended malt built around the combined character of Teaninich and Dalmore. It has a fresh, expressive style with a lightly maritime edge, while maturation in bourbon and sherry casks gives the whisky extra shape without making the wood feel dominant.
Bottled at 50%, it carries real presence, yet the overall impression remains lively and approachable. In typical Thompson Brothers fashion, it is non-chill filtered and bottled without added colouring, allowing the whisky's mix of tropical fruit, floral notes, gentle spice, saline accents and subtle peat smoke to come through with clarity.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to point out to customers who want a blended malt with a (…)Ardbeg 19y Traigh Bhan 5th Edition Incl. Box
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Ardbeg 19y Traigh Bhan 5th Edition Incl. Box
Very last one in stock!
Ardbeg 19y Traigh Bhan 5th Edition is a 19-year-old Islay single malt with a very defined place in the Ardbeg range. Distilled in 2004 and presented as the fifth edition, it carries the feeling of a release tied to a specific moment rather than a general expression.
Its maturation in bourbon and sherry casks gives structure to the whisky while keeping the Islay identity at the centre. Bottled at 46.2%, it has enough strength to support its peated character without turning the presentation into a purely high-proof statement.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Ardbeg we would point out to someone interested in older releases and bottles with collectable appeal. The collectors item indication matters here: it frames this bottle as a particular edition (…)Ardbeg 19y Traigh Bhan Batch 6
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Ardbeg 19y Traigh Bhan Batch 6
In stock
Ardbeg 19y Traigh Bhan Batch 6 presents a mature Islay single malt with a clearly maritime, peated identity. Distilled on 4 April 2005 and aged for 19 years, it brings together bourbon and sherry cask influence with a bottling strength of 46.2%, giving it presence while keeping the focus on its developed character.
The appeal here lies in the way the main elements are framed. Peat, saltiness and spice are the driving forces, with fruit and oak playing a more supporting role. It remains unmistakably connected to the Islay style, yet the age gives this release a more settled tone than a younger, more direct smoky whisky.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this bottle sits naturally among the more distinctive Ardbeg releases for drinkers looking for an older expression (…)Ardnamurchan 10y 2025
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Ardnamurchan 10y 2025
On request only
Ardnamurchan 10y 2025 is a Highland single malt that keeps the distillery character firmly in view. The AD/10 Years Old 2025 Release sits alongside the Heritage Barley Release, but it brings its own point of interest: it is Ardnamurchan's first batch release to include 10-year-old peated whisky.
The composition is what gives this whisky its particular shape. Almost half of the recipe brings together peated and unpeated whiskies, so the smoke is part of the structure rather than a separate layer sitting on top. Maturation is mainly in ex-bourbon casks, with a small amount of ex-sherry cask influence in the mix. That combination supports a style where fruit, soft smoke, gentle spice and a slightly richer undertone can all find their place.
At Drankenshop (…)Ardnamurchan 10y 2026
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Ardnamurchan 10y 2026
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 27/10/2026Ardnamurchan 10y 2026 brings the distillery's 10 Year Old expression back into focus. This Highland Single Malt follows much of the recipe used for the previous edition, showing Ardnamurchan in a style that is approachable without losing its clean, precise distillery character.
The whisky is built from Bourbon and Sherry cask matured components. That combination gives the whisky its interplay of freshness, fruit and richer depth: vanilla and orchard fruit from one side, dried fruit and a broader sweetness from the other. At 10 years old, it feels composed rather than showy, with the cask influence supporting the malt instead of overwhelming it.
For Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Ardnamurchan release that helps customers understand why the (…)Ardnamurchan Core Single Malt
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Ardnamurchan Core Single Malt
| 1 review
In stockArdnamurchan Core Single Malt gives a clear sense of how distinctive this Highland whisky can be. It is built on an even split of peated and unpeated malted barley, so the peat is part of the conversation rather than the whole story. Maturation in bourbon and sherry casks adds further shape, with bourbon casks forming the larger share and sherry casks adding an extra aromatic layer.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we like to introduce when someone is looking for a single malt with detail and freshness rather than sheer weight. It is bottled without chill filtration and with natural colour, preserving a more direct expression of the whisky. The 46.8% strength gives it enough structure to carry its salty, spicy and lightly peated side with confidence.
Ardnamurchan Single Malt + 2 Glasses
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Ardnamurchan Single Malt + 2 Glasses
Temporarily sold out
Expected: 27/10/2026Ardnamurchan Single Malt + 2 Glasses is a Highland single malt presented as a gift pack, complete with two glasses. What gives this whisky its particular identity is the equal use of peated and unpeated malted barley, bringing a gentle peated presence without turning the whole experience into a heavily smoky style.
Its maturation brings together bourbon and sherry casks, with bourbon playing the larger role. That cask mix supports a whisky with spice, a coastal salty edge, some fruit and a restrained touch of peat, giving it a lively and layered feel.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this Ardnamurchan stands out as a bottle where traditional whisky choices meet a more contemporary sense of transparency. It is non-chill filtered, bottled at its natural colour and (…)Arran 14y New
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Arran 14y New
In stock
Arran 14y New brings back a much-loved classic from Arran. This 14-year-old single malt comes from the Isle of Arran and reflects the distillery's clean, elegant style, shaped since 1995 with a clear focus on the character of the spirit itself.
It is bottled without chill filtration and without added colouring, keeping the whisky close to its natural form. Maturation took place mainly in bourbon casks, supported by a refined influence from Palo Cortado sherry casks. That rare combination adds depth without pushing the fresh fruit character into the background.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of Arran we like to introduce when someone is looking for a Scottish single malt with age, texture and personality, but without peat smoke. The 46% strength (…)Ballechin 13y Cask Strength Tube Incl.
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Ballechin 13y Cask Strength Tube Incl.
In stock
Ballechin 13y Cask Strength is a Highland single malt with a firm, direct style. At 13 years old and bottled at 54.9% cask strength, it keeps close to the whisky's natural intensity rather than presenting a softened version of it.
The bourbon and sherry cask maturation provides the framework, but the main impression is built around clear peat and spice. Fruit, floral tones and wood sit in the background, adding detail without taking the lead.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this sits comfortably among the more expressive Scottish single malts: a whisky for drinkers who appreciate Highland origin, cask strength bottling and a pronounced peated side.
The flavour profile is led by peat and spice, both clearly present and given extra weight by the 54.9% (…)Ballechin 2006 18y Tube Incl.
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Ballechin 2006 18y Tube Incl.
On request only
Ballechin 2006 18y is a Highland single malt with maturity at the centre of its character. Distilled in 2006 and aged for 18 years, it brings together time in cask, natural strength and a flavour profile that leans into fruit and spice rather than relying on wood alone.
The maturation in bourbon and sherry casks gives the whisky a broader frame, while bottling at 57.8% cask strength keeps the delivery firm and direct. A gentle peated note sits in the background, with fruit and spice taking the more prominent role and the oak influence remaining measured.
In the selection at Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of bottle we place with whiskies that reward slower tasting and a bit of attention. With only the last bottles remaining, this Ballechin also (…)Balvenie 40y
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Balvenie 40y
Last one in stock!
Balvenie 40y is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky where age is the central part of the conversation. After forty years of maturation, the emphasis shifts away from youthful immediacy and towards patience, maturity and the slow influence of cask ageing.
The use of bourbon and sherry casks gives this Balvenie a broad foundation. According to the supplied flavour profile, fruit, spice and wood are clearly present, with a lighter floral accent in the background. Peat is not part of the picture here, so the focus remains on mature cask character rather than smoke.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this is the kind of whisky we would present to someone looking for an aged Speyside single malt with calm depth and a refined style. At 42.2% alcohol, it stays measured, (…)Benromach 15y Incl. Box
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Benromach 15y Incl. Box
Last one in stock!
Benromach 15y is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky with fifteen years of maturation behind it. Its bourbon and sherry cask background gives it a traditional frame, while the available flavour profile points most clearly toward fruit, with wood and spice sitting more gently in the background.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this Benromach as a mature Speyside malt for drinkers who want development without a peated emphasis. It is not built around smoke; instead, the fruit-led side carries the whisky, supported by a light touch of oak and spice.
Additional information about the brand can be found at https://www.benromach.com/
The flavour impression is led by fruit, with light wood and spice adding structure rather than taking over. Peat does (…)Benromach 2014/2024 Cask Strength Incl. Box
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Benromach 2014/2024 Cask Strength Incl. Box
In stock
Benromach 2014/2024 Cask Strength shows Speyside single malt in a more direct, full-powered form. Bottled at 60.6%, it keeps a firm natural intensity rather than being softened down before release.
The bourbon and sherry cask maturation gives this Benromach its main frame. Fruit is present in a supporting role, spice comes through more clearly, the wood remains relatively restrained, and a light touch of peat adds an extra layer without taking over.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, we see this as a Speyside malt for drinkers who enjoy more grip and concentration in the glass. It is the kind of whisky to take time with, and a little water can be used to adjust the strength to personal taste.
The flavour profile is led by spice, with gentle fruit and a (…)Bowmore 11y Incl. Box
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Bowmore 11y Incl. Box
In stock
Bowmore 11y is an Islay single malt from Scotland with a clear island signature, though it is not built on peat alone. Its 11 years of maturation in bourbon and sherry casks give it a layered frame: peat and spice are the leading elements, while lighter fruity, floral and gently salty touches add detail around them.
At Drankenshop Broekmans, this Bowmore sits well among Islay whiskies for drinkers who enjoy smoke and spice but do not necessarily want a heavily wood-driven dram. The flavour profile points away from dominant oak and more towards the interaction between peat, seasoning and subtle supporting notes.
Bottled at 40% alcohol, Bowmore 11y keeps its strength measured while still showing a recognisable Islay identity. It is a single malt with enough (…)
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.
