Classic Malts
Six distilleries, six landscapes, six completely different whisky characters - with exactly this idea, United Distillers launched the Classic Malts of Scotland in 1988, permanently changing the single malt whisky market. Rather than promoting a single brand, the group presented six distilleries together for the first time, each exemplifying a distinct whisky region: Glenkinchie for the Lowlands, Dalwhinnie for the Highlands, Oban for the West Highlands, Cragganmore for Speyside, Lagavulin for Islay and Talisker for the Isle of Skye. This deliberate contrast of smoky, sweet, bold and gentle styles is still regarded today as one of the most important steps in introducing newcomers to the stylistic diversity of Scotland's regions.
Why were exactly these six distilleries chosen?
In 1988, United Distillers wanted to showcase Scotland's stylistic range through clear regional representatives - from the smoky depth of Islay's Lagavulin to the gentle elegance of Lowland whisky Glenkinchie.
What sets the Classic Malts apart from a typical brand range?
Unlike a single distillery's range, it is a curated selection from six independent distilleries - a concept that was novel at the time and contributed significantly to the worldwide popularity of single malt Scotch.
Facts and figures
Introduced 1988 by United Distillers (now Diageo). Six distilleries: Glenkinchie, Dalwhinnie, Oban, Cragganmore, Lagavulin, Talisker. Recommended representatives include Cragganmore 12 Year Old or Talisker 10 Year Old.