Scotch whisky, often simply called Scotch, is a malt or grain whisky made in Scotland, adhering to strict regulations that govern its production, labeling, and aging. To be labeled as Scotch, the whisky must be distilled and aged in oak barrels for at least three years within Scotland, though many distilleries extend this aging far beyond the minimum, some for decades, to develop depth and complexity. The spirit is renowned for its diverse array of styles and flavors, which vary significantly across its main categories: Single Malt, Single Grain, Blended Malt, Blended Grain, and Blended Scotch Whisky.

Single Malt Scotch, made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery using pot stills, is highly prized for its depth of flavor and complexity, often expressing the distinct characteristics of the region where it's produced. Scotland's whisky-producing regions, including the peat-rich Islay, the rugged Highlands, the fertile Lowlands, the Speyside known for its sweet and fruity malts, and the islands with their maritime influences, contribute unique traits to their whiskies. Peat, used in the malting process for some Scotch whiskies, imparts a smoky flavor that is characteristic of many Scotch whiskies, particularly those from Islay. Blended Scotch, combining malt and grain whiskies from different distilleries, offers a smoother, more consistent flavor profile, making it the most widely consumed type of Scotch globally.