FAQ

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DEWAR’S FAQ

What is DEWAR’S Scotch Whisky?

DEWAR’S is the World’s Most Awarded Blended Scotch Whisky, crafted in Scotland since 1846. Founded by John Dewar, DEWAR’S combines up to 30 single malt and grain whiskies, including aged reserves from our five distilleries – Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, Royal Brackla, and Macduff – plus select whiskies from across Scotland. Known for our signature honeyed smoothness and masterful blending expertise under six-time Master Blender of the Year Stephanie Macleod, DEWAR’S has earned over 1,500 international awards, including DEWAR’S 12 Year Old scoring 94 points from Whisky Advocate.

What makes DEWAR’S different from other Scotch whiskies?

DEWAR’S stands apart through our mastery of blending and innovation. Led by six-time Master Blender of the Year Stephanie Macleod, we expertly harmonise up to 30 single malt and grain whiskies to create our signature house style. Our Premium expressions undergo various specialised maturation techniques – select expressions use two-stage ageing processes, while our 12 Year Old is finished in first-fill bourbon casks. We also pioneer finishing in expressive casks like sherry and rum, adding nuanced layers of character. Our house style delivers rich fruit, honeyed sweetness, silky vanilla, fresh citrus, and a wisp of smoke. With over 1,500 medals and recognition as the World’s Most Awarded Blended Scotch Whisky, DEWAR’S represents 180 years of Scottish craftsmanship.

What’s the difference between two-stage ageing and four-stage ageing?

DEWAR’S uses different specialised maturation processes across our portfolio. Select Premium expressions undergo a two-stage ageing process where whiskies are aged, expertly blended, then returned to oak casks for additional maturation to achieve deeper integration. Our pinnacle Double Double Collection (21, 27, 32 years and above) undergoes our pioneering four-stage ageing process – the first of its kind in the whisky industry. Single malts and grains are aged separately, then blended by type and returned to cask, before being combined as a Blended Scotch and rested again, with a final finish in carefully selected expressive casks like Oloroso, Pedro Ximénez, or Madeira. This four-stage method, developed by six-time Master Blender of the Year Stephanie Macleod, creates exceptional integration, balance, and complexity.

Which DEWAR’S whisky should I choose?

DEWAR’S 12 Year Old – Our flagship Premium expression and one of the best 12 Year Old Blended Scotch whiskies in the world. Finished in first-fill bourbon casks and rated 94 points by Whisky Advocate, it delivers exceptional balance with rich honeyed notes, perfect for sipping neat or in elevated serves.

DEWAR’S 15 Year Old – A rich and complex Premium whisky with deeper honeyed character and sophisticated harmony, ideal for those seeking more maturity and depth.

DEWAR’S 18 Year Old – Our sophisticated Premium expression for special occasions, showcasing decades of master blending expertise with remarkable balance and elegance.

Double Double Collection – Our ultra-aged expressions (21, 27, 32 years) represent the pinnacle of our craft, each undergoing our signature four-stage ageing process for unparalleled complexity.

DEWAR’S White Label – Our versatile classic since 1899, perfect for Highballs and cocktails with vibrant, fruit-forward notes and light honeyed character that make it an ideal introduction to the House of DEWAR’S.

What awards has DEWAR’S won?

DEWAR’S is officially the World’s Most Awarded Blended Scotch Whisky with over 1,500 international accolades. Recent highlights include DEWAR’S 32 Year Old crowned “World’s Best Whisky” by the International Whisky Competition, and DEWAR’S 12 Year Old scoring 94 points from Whisky Advocate. We consistently win gold medals and platinum awards at prestigious competitions including the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and International Whisky Competition (IWC).

What is Scotch whisky?

Scotch whisky is whisky made exclusively in Scotland from malted barley or other grains, aged in oak casks for at least three years, and crafted according to strict Scottish laws. To be called Scotch, it must be distilled, matured, and bottled in Scotland at minimum 40% ABV. DEWAR’S proudly represents authentic Scottish craftsmanship, blending tradition with innovation since 1846 to create our world-renowned smooth, honeyed style.

What is the difference between single malt and blended Scotch whisky?

Single malt Scotch whisky is made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery, expressing that distillery’s unique character. Blended Scotch whisky, like DEWAR’S, expertly combines single malts from multiple distilleries with grain whiskies, creating exceptional breadth and layered complexity. This artistry allows our Master Blender Stephanie Macleod to harmonise up to 30 different whiskies, delivering both remarkable depth and consistent quality across the House of DEWAR’S portfolio, while expressing our signature house style.

How is DEWAR’S whisky made?

DEWAR’S follows traditional Scotch whisky-making through malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and ageing in oak casks. Our master blending process expertly combines up to 30 single malt and grain whiskies, including aged reserves from our five distilleries and select Scottish partners. Select Premium expressions then undergo two-stage ageing processes, whilst our 12 Year Old is finished in first-fill bourbon casks, and other expressions are finished in expressive casks like sherry and rum. These specialised maturation techniques create the exceptional balance, complexity, and honeyed character that defines the House of DEWAR’S.

Where is DEWAR’S made?

Every drop of DEWAR’S is made in Scotland, with access to aged reserves from our five single malt distilleries: Aberfeldy (our spiritual home), Aultmore, Craigellachie, Royal Brackla, and Macduff. Each contributes distinct flavour profiles from Scotland’s key whisky regions. Combined with select grain whiskies from across Scotland, we draw from this extensive inventory to create the harmonious blends that define the House of DEWAR’S signature honeyed smoothness and layered complexity.

What is DEWAR’S White Label?

DEWAR’S White Label, created in 1899, is our versatile classic blended Scotch whisky crafted from up to 30 single malt and grain whiskies. Known for its vibrant, fruit-forward style with light, honeyed notes and universal appeal, White Label is perfect enjoyed neat, in our signature Highball serve, or in classic whisky cocktails. This expression showcases the approachable smoothness and enduring character that has made DEWAR’S a global favourite for over 125 years.

How should I drink DEWAR’S whisky?

DEWAR’S can be enjoyed neat to appreciate our signature smoothness, with a splash of water to open the flavours, on the rocks, or in cocktails. We especially recommend the DEWAR’S Highball – our whisky with soda water over ice – a serve we helped pioneer since 1892. This highlights our honeyed character while creating a refreshing, versatile drink that showcases why DEWAR’S is perfect for any occasion.

Is DEWAR’S whisky gluten-free?

Yes, DEWAR’S Scotch whiskies are suitable for gluten-sensitive consumers. Although whisky is made from grains containing gluten (barley, wheat), the distillation process removes gluten proteins. All expressions in the House of DEWAR’S portfolio are gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy our signature smooth, honeyed style regardless of dietary restrictions.

How many calories are in DEWAR’S whisky?

A 25 ml serving of DEWAR’S at 40% ABV contains approximately 55-60 calories. DEWAR’S contains no fat, sugar, or carbohydrates, making our World’s Most Awarded Blended Scotch Whisky a lower-calorie choice compared to many other alcoholic beverages while delivering premium flavour and smoothness.

How many units of alcohol are in a bottle of DEWAR’S?

A standard 70cl bottle of DEWAR’S at 40% ABV contains approximately 28 units of alcohol. Always check your bottle’s label for exact ABV details and follow responsible drinking guidelines in your country. Enjoy DEWAR’S responsibly to fully appreciate our master-crafted smoothness and honeyed character.

What’s the difference between whisky and whiskey spelling?

“Whisky” is the spelling used in Scotland (and by DEWAR’S), while “whiskey” is used in Ireland and America. Scottish whisky like DEWAR’S often features a smoother, more balanced profile thanks to our blending expertise and specialised maturation techniques, including two-stage ageing and finishing processes. As the World’s Most Awarded Blended Scotch Whisky, DEWAR’S represents the pinnacle of Scottish “whisky” craftsmanship.

Which DEWAR’S is best for cocktails?

For elevated cocktail experiences, DEWAR’S 12 Year Old works beautifully in a Whisky Collins or classic Highball, whilst DEWAR’S 15 Year Old is perfect for our signature Right Pal cocktail. DEWAR’S 18 Year Old is ideal for sophisticated serves like the Rob Roy. These Premium expressions offer the depth and complexity to elevate classic cocktails whilst maintaining the signature DEWAR’S smoothness. DEWAR’S White Label remains excellent for everyday mixed drinks and Highballs thanks to its versatile, fruit-forward style that complements other ingredients. All showcase why DEWAR’S has been a bartender favourite since we pioneered the Scotch Highball in 1892, with additional discovery serves available for those wanting to explore further.

Does DEWAR’S whisky go off?

No, DEWAR’S Scotch whisky does not go off or expire when stored properly. Unopened bottles can last indefinitely when kept in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, DEWAR’S maintains its quality for several years, though the flavour may gradually change due to oxidation. For optimal taste, store opened bottles upright with the cap tightly sealed. Unlike wine, whisky doesn’t continue to age in the bottle, so your DEWAR’S will retain its signature honeyed smoothness and carefully crafted character for years to come.