Grain whisky has been produced in Scotland for well over a century but it still manages to fly under the radar of many whisky drinkers. Often associated with blended Scotch, it has plenty to offer in its own right, from light, approachable flavours to mature and surprisingly complex drams.
What Is Grain Whisky?
As the name suggests, grain whisky is made using grains other than malted barley alone. In Scotch whisky production, these can include maize, wheat and rye alongside malted barley. The choice of grains and the way they’re distilled help give grain whisky its own distinctive character.
One of the main differences between grain whisky and single malt whisky is the production process. While single malt Scotch is distilled in copper pot stills, grain whisky is typically produced in continuous stills. These can operate continuously rather than in separate batches, making production more efficient and allowing whisky to be made on a much larger scale.
The development of the Coffey still, patented by Aeneas Coffey in 1830, helped transform distilling and opened the door to a new style of Scotch whisky. Grain whisky is generally lighter in character than many single malts, making it particularly useful in blends where it can bring balance and a softer style alongside the more pronounced flavours of malt whisky.
Most Scotch grain whisky is used in blended Scotch, the economic backbone of the industry. But grain whisky deserves attention in its own right too. As more independent bottlers such as Compass Box, James Eadie and Thompson Brothers explore individual casks and mature grain releases, drinkers are discovering just how much character these whiskies can develop over time.
Discover Single Grain Whisky at Royal Mile Whiskies
Single grain whisky comes from one distillery, although it can be made using different grains and production methods permitted for Scotch whisky. Bottled as a single grain, it offers a chance to explore the character of an individual distillery without the addition of malt whiskies from elsewhere.
Our selection includes grain whiskies at different ages and with a variety of maturation styles. Independent bottlers have also helped bring more attention to the category.
Whether you’re already a grain whisky enthusiast or simply curious about something beyond single malt, it’s a category well worth exploring.
Buy Grain Whisky Online
Browse our grain whisky collection to discover bottles for your own whisky cabinet or as a gift for someone who enjoys exploring something different.
Buying for a bar or restaurant? You can also place orders through our trade portal. You’re welcome to visit us in our Edinburgh, St Andrews or York whisky shops too where our team will help guide you to an interesting bottle.