Scotch Shows Its Strength

The cask-strength movement has long been a phenomenon in America. Scotland is flexing its muscles in this flavorful category

JACK BETTRIDGE

Even the casual drinks enthusiast may have noticed a proliferation of ultra-premium liquor bottles over the last decade proudly displaying the words “Cask Strength” or “Barrel Proof.” They indicate not just a heightened percentage of alcohol, but to many devotees they are also a mark of quality, of authenticity, a message that this is the proof that nature intended. It’s easy to find dozens of high-octane Bourbons and ryes in your local package store. But until recently Scotch whisky wasn’t as well represented on those shelves. It’s as though the country that gave us whisky is late to the overproof party, or that the same benefits that come with extra alcohol in America don’t apply to single malts made in Scotland. Neither is true. The movement for cask strength is…

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Cigar Aficionado (Digital) - 1 Issue, March/April 2025

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