Music + Whisky Diaries: Everything You Should Know About Single Scotch

They say the best things come in pairs – peanut butter and jelly, bread and beans. Where one is served, the other is always lurking somewhere and together, they make a perfect combo. If everything comes in pairs, then what comes with music?. Many will agree that ‘music is the food of the soul, and after a good meal, you will always need a fresh liquid to wash it down or should I say, a well malted barley.

While there may be a whole world of whiskies out there to explore – from the bold, spicy notes of a rye to the silky smooth charm of a fine bourbon – nothing quite compares to the unparalleled elegance and refinement of a good single malt Scotch.  After all, when it comes to the finer things in life, sometimes you just can’t beat the classics.

Now, picture yourself reclining in splendour into a vintage rocking chair, sipping on a pour of The Macallan’s “The Reach” – an 81-year-old whisky that’s probably as old as your grandparents and listening to an album of the one and only Fela Kuti, the Afrobeat legend himself. As the smooth, oaky flavours swirl on the tongue, you can almost hear the infectious rhythms of “Zombie” playing in the background. It’s a match made in heaven… or should we say, in the Scottish Highlands?

Let’s start with the basics. Single malt scotch is a type of whisky that is distilled at a single distillery, using malted barley as the only grain ingredient. This gives it a distinct, complex flavour profile that can range from smoky and peaty to sweet and fruity. And the real magic of single malt scotch lies in its versatility and the way it can elevate a wide range of culinary experiences.

This diversity in flavour is what makes single malt scotch such a versatile and captivating spirit. It’s like the Afrobeats genre – one minute you’re grooving to the infectious melodies of Rema’s “Calm Down”, the next you’re vibing to the hypnotic beats of Asake’s latest and then suddenly, Badoo takes you on a pulsating journey to Metaverse.

As you jam to that Afro rhythm, let the lyrics take you on a journey while enjoying a glass of this exceptional spirit with a platter of smoked chicken wings. The smoky savoury wings perfectly complements the whisky’s subtle hints of vanilla and dried fruit, leaving you craving more. Now, who needs a dance partner when you have a glass of whisky and some finger-lickin’ wings? Time to let loose and let the good times flow.

But why stop there?. Single malt scotch, is a versatile spirit, able to complement bold flavours from smoked fish to spicy BBQ. The Macallan, with its rich notes of chocolate, fruit, and oak, can cut through the richness of these dishes smoothly like flows while amplifying their smokiness – a pairing as harmonious as the soulful melodies of Tems’ “Try Me”.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a little musical and whisky-fueled adventure, don’t be afraid to get a little experimental. Step outside your comfort zone, try something new, raise your glass and let the music move you. And remember – the only wrong way to enjoy single malt scotch is not to enjoy it at all.

Just remember, as the Scottish proverb goes, “Whisky is liquid music.” so grab a glass, cue up your playlist, and get ready to experience the perfect marriage of sound and spirit.