What Is Single Malt Whisky?

Single malt whisky is made at a single distillery from malted barley, distilled in pot stills, and aged in oak casks. It's the most celebrated style of Scotch whisky — and for good reason. These are the community's top-rated single malts.

Frequently asked questions

What is single malt whisky?

Single malt is whisky made at a single distillery using only malted barley and pot stills. The term 'single' refers to the distillery, not the cask — most single malts are blended from many casks of the same distillery.

Is single malt better than blended whisky?

Not necessarily — it's different. Single malts showcase a distillery's individual character; blended whiskies combine malts for consistency and complexity. Both can be excellent.

What is the best single malt whisky?

Community favourites on Neatly include Lagavulin 16, Ardbeg Uigeadail, Glenfarclas 21, and GlenDronach 18. The 'best' depends entirely on your flavour preferences.