Comparing Single Malt Whisky and Double Malt Whisky
Malt whisky, one of the most celebrated spirits in the world, offers a rich diversity of flavours, captivating whisky enthusiasts globally. Whether you're enjoying a single malt or double malt, the experience can be vastly different. Single and double malt whiskies both share a foundation of 100% malted barley, but they differ in the blending and ageing process, which shape their distinct identities.
Understanding these differences allows whisky lovers to appreciate the unique qualities each expression brings. This guide delves into the characteristics of both single and double malt whiskies, breaking down the misconceptions and exploring the mastery behind blending that result in these premium spirits.
What is Malt Whisky?
Understanding your whisky label is the first step in learning what you enjoy. Malt whiskies, whether they’re single malt, double malt or blended, they’re all made using 100% malted barley. Even using a small amount of a different grain would reclassify the spirit as a grain whisky. Read about the different types of whisky
Malt whiskies offer distinctive characteristics and flavour profiles ranging from savoury wood, smoke and leather to spices, fruit and citrus. However, each distillery creates a unique expression and flavour profiles which reflect the characteristics of the barley, the country of origin, the production process – malting, mashing, fermentation, maturation and blending mastery. Single malt doesn’t have to come from a single cask as long as blending remains within the same distillery.
What’s the Difference Between Single and Double Malt Whisky?
It’s a common misconception that the term ‘single’ or ‘double’ refers to the variety or the type of grain used. It actually refers the number of distilleries involved in producing that whisky expression. Double malt whisky is made using 100% malt whisky from two distilleries whereas, single malt is produced by a single distiller. Triple malt whisky would use product from three distilleries but usually this type of whisky is categorised as blended malt whisky.
Recap the key differences between single and double malt
| Single Malt | Double Malt |
| Produced at a single distillery | Produced by blending malt whiskies from two distilleries |
| Produced from 100% malted barley | Produced using 100% malted barley |
| Blending permitted with malt whisky from the same distillery | Blending permitted between two distilleries and between barrels from the same distillery |
| Aged for at least three years in oak barrels | Aged for at least three years in oak barrels |
| Distilled in copper pot stills | Distilled in copper pot stills |
| Doesn’t have to be from a single barrel | Never classified as a single cask whisky |
How do Flavours Differ Between Single and Double Malt?
Both are malted whisky so you would struggle to differentiate the two types on the flavour profile alone. The unique identity will depend on the barley characteristics, the malting process, distillation (column stills or pot stills), maturation and blending skill from the two distilleries collaborating.
Usually, blended whiskies aren’t as revered as single distillery expressions. However, double malt whiskies offer a lot more character than typical blends from independent bottlings and non-descript distilleries. They’re the result of a carefully planned collaboration and the results can be exceptional – flavours that balance one another perfectly.
Which is Better, Single or Double Malt Whisky?
Single malt is often regarded as the more refined option because the spirit directly reflects the painstaking production process and the distinct characteristics of the malted grain. Mastering whisky blending is tricky, because it involves an advanced understanding of the tasting notes, aromas and other characteristics of two whiskies from different distilleries and predicting how they will relate to one another in a blend.
Due to the challenges associated with whisky blending, they aren’t usually as highly esteemed compared to single malt. Blended whiskies usually sit at the lower end of the quality and price spectrum. However, there are some excellent double malt whiskies available that offer a perfect harmony of tasting notes.
Why is Single Malt Whisky more Popular than Double Malt?
There is a huge demand for the single malt whisky, it is set up to perfectly reflect the quality of the ingredients and expertise in production. There really isn’t anywhere to hide with single Malt compared to blended options.
“We’re proud of the transparency and capability to showcase that we’re ‘not hiding anything’... We just stick to single malt because that’s what we’re set up to do. Single malt whisky of the Cotswolds”.
- Rob Patchett, Whisky Ambassador at Cotswolds Distillery
However, double malted whiskies are often overlooked because they’re categorised alongside blended whiskies – which can vary more in quality and flavour.
Although we specialise in Single Malt whisky, Cotswolds Distillery has recently introduced a collaborative double malt whisky to commemorate Dr Jim Swan, a pioneer in whisky production. Dr Swan’s approach to whisky maturation is still widely used today, it helps create beautifully approachable whiskies. Working with M&H Whisky Distillery, we crafted the ultimate double malt whisky blend – full of balanced fruit, spice and sweetness.
Why is Double Malt Cheaper than Single Malt?
Generally, higher quality whiskies from renowned distilleries come at a higher price point. Single malt whiskies are also in high demand. However, double malt whiskies can have exceptional quality if two renowned distilleries collaborate on a beautifully balanced and distinct expression that emphasises the signature style from both producers.
Are there any Double Malts that can Rival Single Malt?
High quality options and distinct flavour profiles are available in the category of double malt whisky. They’re typically the result of a carefully considered collaboration between two distilleries already producing consistently high quality.
Cotswolds Distillery typically produces single malt whisky “because that’s what we’re set up to do”. However, we’re proud to introduce a limited edition whisky in collaboration with M&H Whisky Distillery to commemorate a pioneer in modern whisky production.
The initial aromas include decadent butterscotch, toffee, and cassia bark (cinnamon). Experience a delicate balance of flavours from coconut and soft fruits - pears, plums and figs. This rich blend rounds out with fruity, raisiny expressions and a hint of burnt sugar and spice.
Single malt may often be revered for its purity and the distinct flavours, but high-quality double malts demonstrate that blending can elevate whisky to new heights.
What to read next
How to drink single malt whisky
What are the types of single malt whisky
Single malt whisky vs single grain whisky
Single malt whisky vs single cask whisky