Diageo Six Classic Malts of Scotland
In 1988, the United Distillers and Vintners began marketing the “Classic Malts of Scotland” as a selection of six single malt scotch whiskies that were representative of the best Scotch whiskey available. The United Distillers and Vintners was later purchased by Diageo, who has continued the marketing campaign. The “regions” in the six classic malts of Scotland differ from the official Scotch Whiskey Association region classifications, most likely so that they could include other scotches to the list of classics.
It’s not an official designation, just a marketing one. That doesn’t stop the six from being fine scotches though.
The six Classic Malts of Scotland are:
- Dalwhinnie 15 – Highland
- Talisker 10 – Isle of Skye
- Cragganmore 12 – Speyside
- Oban 14 – West Highland
- Lagavulin 16 – Islay
- Glenkinchie 12 – Lowland
As you can see, Isle of Skye (part of the Island subregion of the Highlands in the SWA’s official regions) isn’t an officially recognized region and Campbeltown, where Diageo does not own a distillery, isn’t represented on the list.
Good day
Can you list me the classic malts of 2005
Thank you very much
Philippe Gognet
The Lagavulin is darkest. Would it be the strongest tasting, meaning the one with the most distinctive taste? Something as different as a stout from a light corona? Thank you
Hello, My wife and I are traveling to Scotland this summer and wondered if we could join “Friends of the Classic Malts”. I have looked for a “link” to sign up, but haven’t found one. Thank you for any info. George Wayte