To be able to properly read and understand a scotch label takes the ability to understand many things. National laws, marketing, tradition, as well as whim of men. This simple guide can get you through the confusion of what’s inside the bottle.

If you are looking for a true scotch whisky then the label should say exactly that. Any spelling differences? Then it is probably not made in Scotland, and thus is not true Scotch.

Look for the words single malt. They can be broken up, yet they will say single malt if that is what it is. However, the only way to identify a true single malt whisky is to do research. Never take the name as it’s own word on quality; many names have been forged to hide the identity of the true distiller.

If the alcohol content per volume reads more than fifty percent then it would be best to water down this malt, as it is rated by cask strength and will be stronger. Please do not mistake percentage with proof.

Finally. Make sure that you check the date of bottling. True Scotch does not age once bottled.