Whiskypedia: A Compendium of Scotch Whisky by Charles MacLean [1510702881, EPUB]

Whiskypedia: A Compendium of Scotch Whisky by Charles MacLean

Print Length: 384 Pages
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing
Publication Date: May 17, 2016
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1510702881
ISBN-13: 978-1510702882
ISBN-10: 1616080760
ISBN-13: 978-1616080761
File Format: EPUB

Why does Scotch whisky taste like it does? Where do the flavors come from? How might they have changed over the years?

The flavor of Scotch whisky is as much influenced by history, craft, and tradition as it is by science. Individual distilleries give their whiskies unique characteristics. These characteristics do not arise magically (as was once thought), nor are they solely the result of the region (as is still thought, by some). They have their roots in the craft and custom of the distillery and of the district in which it is located, but the key influences upon flavor are the distilling equipment itself, how it is operated, and how the spirit is matured.

Whiskypedia explores these influences. For the first time, the flavor and character of every malt whisky distilled in Scotland is explored with reference to how it is made. Introductory sections provide an historical overview, an examination of regional differences, and an explanation of the contribution made by each stage of the production process. This compendium is a comprehensive guide to all the distilleries in Scotland (both malt and grain). Each entry provides a brief account of the distillery’s history and curiosities, lists the bottlings which are currently available, details how the whisky is made, and explores the flavor and character of each make. Malt whisky is the quintessential “spirit of place,” and this element of the story has been captured by John MacPherson’s camera in specially commissioned images which compliment the text.

Helpful Guide to Scottish Whisky

Charles MacLean’s Whiskypedia is a well written, comprehensive look at the Scotch Whisky industry. The book begins with a short but insightful history of Scotch, followed by a detailed explanation of how to understand a label on a bottle of Scotch. Then he gives you an explanation of the recognized regional differences that make Scotch Whisky so unique.

The meat of the book is the “Gazetter of Distilleries”, which takes up the largest portion of the book. Here MacLean shows off his vast knowledge of all things Scotch. Each entry is listed by the name of a Distillery, with a brief history of the brand, a listing of their range of products, information on the plant (stills, washbacks, etc.) how the spirit is matured (bourbon or sherry casks, etc.), and the style of whisky made there. MacLean finishes each listing with his personal tasting notes.

The entries are very inclusive, listing all known distilleries that are currently in operation, those that are now closed, and a handful that are back in operation but haven’t released anything yet. The historical notes and “curiosities” make each entry an enjoyable read that gives special insight on each distillery,their founders, and their current owners.

This a very well researched and enjoyable resource book that I know I will return to often. I doubt this book will have time to collect dust on my bookshelf!