Peat is a natural material consisting of moss, grasses, tree roots, and soil that has been compacted for thousands of years. It can be found all over the Isles of Britain and has been a key element in the Scottish whisky industry for centuries. Many distilleries, especially those on the Scottish islands like Islay, relied on peat as their primary source of fuel before the advent of coal and electricity. Even though other energy sources are now available, these distilleries have chosen to maintain the tradition of producing smoky, peated whiskies that are beloved by whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
Peat imparts a unique flavor to spirits, making them distinct within the world of whisky. When peat is burned, it produces a smoky aroma and flavor. The smoke contains phenols, which are chemicals absorbed by the malted barley during the drying process in a kiln. The level of phenols determines the smokiness of the whisky. Various factors contribute to the phenolic level, including the duration of exposure to smoke, the amount of smoke produced, and the type of peat used.
The Process of Peat Cutting
Peat cutting is traditionally done by hand using special tools. The cut peat, known as sod, is then left to dry for 2-3 weeks in the open air. Once dried, the peat is collected and taken to the distillery for burning. Many distilleries use local peat or even cut it from their own property. Peat burns for a long time due to its tightly compacted nature, making it an ideal fuel source, especially in the Scottish islands. While peat is no longer the sole source of fuel for drying barley, many distilleries continue to use it for the unique smoky aromas and flavors it imparts.
The Role of Phenols in Peated Whiskies
Phenols, which are absorbed by the malted barley during the smoking process, play a crucial role in the flavor profile of peated whiskies. Distilleries measure phenolic levels in parts per million (PPM) to determine the intensity of the smokiness. Roughly one-third of the malt's PPM value is lost during distillation, resulting in a lower phenolic level in the final spirit. While higher PPM levels generally indicate smokier whiskies, it's important to note that strong peat notes can be present without overpowering smokiness. For example, Bruichladdich's Octomore 1 has an impressive PPM level of 169, while Ardbeg 10yo ranges from 55-65 PPM but is considered much smokier.
Below are some examples of PPM values for well-known distilleries:
- Ardbeg: 50-65 PPM
- Ardmore: 10-15 PPM
- Benromach: 8 PPM
- Bowmore: 20-25 PPM
- Bruichladdich (Port Charlotte & Octomore): 40-260 PPM
- Bunnahabhain: 1-2 PPM
- Caol Ila: 30-35 PPM
- Highland Park: 20 PPM
- Ledaig: 35 PPM
- Lagavulin: 35-40 PPM
- Laphroaig: 40-43 PPM
- Longrow: 55 PPM
- Springbank: 7-8 PPM
- Talisker: 25-30 PPM
Exploring Peated Whiskies: From Islay to the Mainland
When it comes to peated whiskies, the Isle of Islay in Scotland is renowned for producing some of the best. Distilleries like Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg have gained worldwide recognition for their heavily peated offerings. However, peated whiskies can also be found outside of Islay.
Springbank and BenRiach, for example, are distilleries that produce peated whiskies on the mainland. Highland Park, located on the Orkney Islands, offers a different approach with their sophisticated Orkney peat, resulting in a more nuanced smokiness.
Does Glenmorangie Use Peat?
Glenmorangie, one of the well-known Scotch whisky distilleries, does not use peat in its production process. Unlike Ardbeg, which is also part of the Glenmorangie Company, Glenmorangie whiskies are unpeated. This means that they do not have the strong smoky flavors typically associated with peated whiskies. Instead, Glenmorangie focuses on creating whiskies that are approachable and showcase different flavor profiles.
Scotch whisky, including both peated and unpeated varieties, has gained a dedicated following around the world. While heavily peated whiskies like Ardbeg and Laphroaig are often seen as an acquired taste, there are also plenty of options for those who prefer a more subtle and versatile whisky.
Enjoying Scotch Whisky: From Cocktails to Neat
Scotch whisky, whether peated or unpeated, can be enjoyed in various ways. For those new to the world of whisky, cocktails can be a great introduction. Mixing a smoky whisky like Ardbeg Wee Beastie with apple juice, lime juice, and vanilla syrup creates an Ardbeg Daiquiri with a hint of smokiness. On the other hand, Glenmorangie Original 10 Year Old can be combined with lemon bitters, aromatic bitters, and ginger ale to create a refreshing Glenmorangie Ginger Lemon Highball.
As you become more accustomed to the flavors of Scotch whisky, you may choose to enjoy it neat or with a splash of water or ice. The key is to find the right whisky that suits your palate and preferences. Whether you're exploring the smoky depths of peated whiskies or savoring the smoothness of unpeated varieties, there is a Scotch whisky out there waiting to be discovered.
In Conclusion
Glenturret Peat Smoked is just one example of the many peated whiskies available in the market. Peat plays a crucial role in creating the distinctive flavors and aromas that whisky enthusiasts love. From the cutting of peat to the measurement of phenolic levels, every step of the process contributes to the final product. Whether you prefer the intense smokiness of Islay whiskies or the more subtle approach of distilleries like Glenmorangie, there is a peated whisky out there to satisfy your taste buds. So pour yourself a dram and embark on a journey to explore the world of peated whiskies.
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