Ask Away: Which Scotch whisky region is your secret favorite?

Which whisky lover doesn’t drink Scotch? Everyone does, of course! You can divide them into five regions. So this week, we’re asking the Whisky Monkeys if they have a favorite. Curious? Read along and don't forget to tell us which is yours.

I don’t have a single favorite whisky region in Scotland. What I love is the variety of flavor profiles, and the way the Scottish regions have traditionally each developed their own character. Islay is special to me, though—both because I have fond memories of a wonderful holiday there and because I’m not afraid of smoky whiskies. So maybe I have to admit that Islay edges out the rest as my favorite Scottish whisky region…

All of Scotland’s whisky regions have their own charm, especially when you take the landscapes into account. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would be Speyside. Mainly for the approachable, friendly whiskies that come from there. That said, there’s also a lot of variety to be found—from bold and robust to delicate and sweet, and even drams with peat influence.

Every region produces beautiful whiskies, and I’ve been lucky enough to visit a few areas. That said, Islay has truly stolen my heart. The whole island breathes whisky, and it’s home to some of the most iconic distilleries.

The peated whiskies made at this whisky islay are among the finest you can find.

I haven’t been to Scotland yet, so I don’t feel tied to any one region. I have, however, bought and tasted a number of Scotch whiskies. None of the regions has become a clear personal favorite. As others have rightly pointed out, each region has its own defining traits that make it special.

Want to learn more about our “Ask Away” series? Check out all of the articles in this overview.