Whisky Malt

Malt Whisky

At Lark Distillery, we know that producing a premium Australian whisky begins with choosing the best whisky malt. Malted whisky is known the world over for producing the most outstanding example of high-end whisky. If you're looking for a premium whisky that's complex in flavour and distilled to perfection by a dedicated team, then Lark Distilling Co. has got you covered. 

Malt whisky must be a mash composed entirely of malted barley and distilled using a copper pot still. Each distillery will have a specific process to produce their whisky, and these processes are often a highly guarded secret. A quality whisky is produced and developed over time. At Lark Distillery, we've been perfecting our techniques for over 30 years. Lark is an Australian and internationally award-winning whisky and is regarded as producing a premium product enjoyed by people who love whisky.

What does malt whisky taste like?

The flavours in any whisky are primarily dependent on the quality of the malted barley and the resulting mash used in the fermentation and distillation process. If you're looking at an aged whisky, the distiller may have several different varieties on offer, and all of these will vary in their specific flavour. 

One of the best ways to trial a new whisky is by visiting the distillery and attending a sampling session. These sessions will provide an insight into the process of making the whisky, and they'll give you enough information to tell premium Australian spirits apart. If you cannot visit the distillery, either due to distance or visitation is not offered (some distillers are intensely secretive), then the next best option is to buy a whisky tasting set. In these sets, you'll be given a selection of different whiskies from your favourite Australian distillery. By using these sets, you'll appreciate the quality of the grain and distillation techniques that went into producing the final product. A whisky tasting set can also make for an excellent gift, and it can help you share the experience of your favourite Australian whisky. 

In tasting whisky, there are three main components: appearance, aromas, and palate. Pour the whisky of your choice into a suitable glass and examine its colour. Next, gently roll the whisky around your glass to help release aromas and breathe in its offering. The smell of the whisky may stimulate some of your memories. Think about what the aromas make you remember. Typical aromas in whisky will include leather, smoke, salt, dried fruits, and oak. Everyone's experience will be different, and aromas are highly subjective.  

Tasting your whisky is the final step to uncovering all the flavours. The appearance and aromas will help prepare your taste buds and give you a good image of what you may taste. Sip the whisky and allow the flavours garnered from the whisky malt to wash over your tongue. How does the whisky feel in your mouth? Is it rough or smooth? Does it feel sweet and sticky? What flavours can be detected, and does it produce a feeling deep within? After you swallow the liquid, what images are most prominent in your mind? Do you notice a specific aftertaste? 

After you have the first sip, you may prefer to add a few drops of water and taste it again. Adding water can help open up the flavours within and give you a better picture of the flavours developed by the distillation and maturation process.

What food goes well with malt whisky?

A quality whisky is often enhanced by enjoying it with food. Just like wine, choosing the right food to go with your whisky will enhance its flavours. Discovering the perfect match to balance and improve your malt whisky will take time, but you can try these out to get you started. 

• Dark Chocolate - If you're settling down for the evening, then a malt whisky and dark chocolate can be perfect. If you have rye whisky, these are best with milk chocolate.

• Red Meat - For the summer afternoon BBQ, you'll find that most grilled red meats work incredibly well with malt whisky. Save the best scotch fillet to go with your top-shelf whisky.

• Smoked Salmon - If you're enjoying a Tasmanian whisky, try pairing it with the equally excellent Tasmanian Atlantic salmon.

• Cheese - It's hard to go past the perfect pairing of alcohol and cheese. Most cheese boards set up for red wine tasting will go perfectly with the rich flavours of a quality malt whisky.

• Pork Ribs - BBQ ribs may be more in the realm of an American flavour, but a quality cook can turn these into the perfect meal to have with your favourite malt whisky.

Where can I buy malt whisky near me?

Tasmania is the heartland of premium malt whisky in Australia, and we have been developing our distinctive flavour for many years. In the Lark Distillery online shop, you'll find all the malt whisky we currently offer, along with many other products.

You can order anything through our online shop for a whisky delivery to your home (or business). Orders are dispatched through Australia Post, and most delivery will be made in less than five days (10 days for regional). Ordering whisky online is one of the best ways to get the best Australian whisky delivery straight to your home. If you need any assistance in finding the best malt whisky, don't hesitate to drop us a line. Order now.