The Difference Between Blended Malt and Blended Grain Whisky

Blended malt and blended grain whisky are two distinct categories within the world of whisky, each with its own unique characteristics and production processes. Understanding the differences between these two types of whisky can help whisky enthusiasts appreciate the nuances of each style and make more informed purchasing decisions.

Blended Malt Whisky

Blended malt whisky is made by blending together single malt whiskies from different distilleries. Unlike blended grain whisky, which can contain a mixture of malted barley and other grains, blended malt whisky is exclusively made from malted barley. This results in a whisky that is typically rich in flavor and complexity, with a focus on the distinctive characteristics of the malted barley used in its production.
One of the key differences between blended malt and blended grain whisky is the level of control that distillers have over the final product. When creating a blended malt whisky, the master blender has the opportunity to select single malt whiskies from different distilleries to achieve a specific flavor profile. This level of customization allows for a wide range of flavor profiles within the blended malt category, from light and fruity to rich and smoky.
In terms of production volume, blended malt whisky tends to be produced in smaller quantities compared to blended grain whisky. This is due to the limited availability of single malt whiskies from different distilleries, as well as the time and expertise required to create a well-balanced blend. As a result, blended malt whiskies are often considered to be premium products that appeal to discerning whisky drinkers.

Blended Grain Whisky

Blended grain whisky, on the other hand, is made by blending together single grain whiskies from different distilleries. Single grain whisky is made from a mixture of grains, which can include barley, corn, wheat, or rye. This results in a lighter and more delicate whisky compared to blended malt, with a focus on the sweetness and smoothness of the grains used in its production.
Unlike blended malt whisky, which is made exclusively from malted barley, blended grain whisky can contain a variety of grains in its production. This allows for a greater degree of flexibility in terms of flavor profile, with blended grain whiskies ranging from light and floral to rich and spicy.
In terms of production volume, blended grain whisky is typically produced in larger quantities compared to blended malt whisky. This is due to the availability of grains used in its production, as well as the lower cost associated with producing grain whisky compared to malt whisky. As a result, blended grain whiskies are often more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Industry Insights

The whisky industry has seen a growing interest in both blended malt and blended grain whiskies in recent years. Whisky enthusiasts are increasingly seeking out unique and innovative expressions within these categories, driving demand for new and exciting blends from distilleries around the world.
Financial data from leading whisky companies shows that sales of blended malt and blended grain whiskies have been steadily increasing, with both categories experiencing strong growth in key markets such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Japan. This trend is expected to continue as consumers continue to explore the diverse range of flavors and styles offered by blended malt and blended grain whiskies.
In conclusion, blended malt and blended grain whiskies offer whisky drinkers a wide range of flavors and styles to explore. While blended malt whisky is known for its rich and complex character, blended grain whisky offers a lighter and more delicate alternative. By understanding the differences between these two categories, whisky enthusiasts can better appreciate the diversity and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle of blended whisky.