What is Grain Whisky?

Grain whisky. 🥃 Scotland produces more grain whisky than malt whisky. But what exactly is grain whisky, where does it all go and how is it different to malt whisky?

What is grain whisky?

Grain whisky is a type of whisky made from cereals; typically, corn, wheat, rye and barley.

How is it different to malt whisky?

Malt whisky is made using only 100% malted barley.

How is grain whisky made?

It is made in the same way to malt whisky (milling, mashing and fermentation) except that distillation is completed in a continuous (column still) rather than made in batches, like malt whisky.

Where are the grain distilleries?

There are 8 dedicated grain distilleries in Scotland. Most are located in the Lowlands region, with the exception of one which is located in the Highlands. They are Cameronbridge, Girvan, Strathclyde, North British, Reivers, Starlaw, Loch Lomond Grain and Invergordon.

Any others coming?

Yes. Jackson Distillers ltd are opening a new grain distillery in 2025.

Why don’t you usually see grain whiskies on the supermarket shelves?

You do but they’re HIDDEN in plain sight within the blended whiskies.

Most of those ‘Big 8’ grain distilleries are owned by huge multinational beverage companies and produce grain whisky destined for blended whiskies.

Grain whisky forms the heart of blended whisky, which has to be made from a combination of malted barley and grain whisky.

What does grain whisky taste like?

Grain whisky is generally sweeter, lighter and softer which makes it so perfect for blends.

Can I buy just grain whisky on its own?

Yes, you can buy SINGLE GRAIN WHISKY (grain whisky produced from one single distillery) and BLENDED GRAIN WHISKY (a blend of grain whiskies from different distilleries).

Who produces single grain whisky?

Haig Club, Loch Lomond Single Grain, Arbikie; and Duncan Taylor produces an independent bottling.

Who produces blended grain whisky?

Compass Box and That Boutique-y Whisky Company.

Should I try it?

Yes. Give it a go! If you’re a whisky lover, it’s great to expand your palate beyond the usual malt whiskies.

Have you ever tried single grain whisky? Let me know in the comments.

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