It is not possible to lay down any precise age as being the best
for a particular whisky. Generally speaking, Malt
Whiskies require longer to mature fully than Grain
Whiskies. The law insists that Scotch Whisky shall be at
least three years old, and many overseas countries have
similar provisos varying from three to five years. It is
the practice of the trade to mature for substantially
longer than the legal minimum. Malt Whiskies are
normally matured for up to 15 years and sometimes even
longer. When an age is quoted for a blended whisky, it is
the age of the youngest single Malt or Grain Whisky in the
blend, no matter how small the amount. It is never an
average.
© SWA 1995