SMWS Simplifies Single Cask Whisky Classification to Eight Flavor Profiles
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has officially launched a streamlined single cask whisky classification system, reducing its original twelve flavor labels to eight, now enhanced with color-coding for easier identification. This move marks a significant evolution for the international whisky club, known for its unique naming conventions and emphasis on flavor over traditional categorization. The new system abandons previous age-based categories, such as 'Old & Dignified' and 'Young & Spritely', opting instead for purely flavor-driven descriptions in conjunction with the Scotch Whisky Research Institute's Flavor Wheel. Each new flavor is assigned a distinct color code for intuitive recognition. These eight new classifications cover a broad spectrum of tastes, ranging from 'Fragrant & Floral' – described as exuding delicate aromas and lively flavors with an elegant, playful character – to 'Bold & Peaty', featuring notes of smoked mackerel, farmyard, and clean, tar-like peat. Each bottle in the Signature range will now feature a color-coded strip on the back label, indicating the flavor name, cask type, and confirming it is non-chill filtered and cask strength.
Since 1983, SMWS has maintained its distinctive approach, refraining from naming distilleries on its labels and instead employing creative descriptions like 'Red wine and brine in the old coal mine' or 'Lavender Honey and Chimney Lobsters'. Euan Campbell, SMWS's Head of Whisky Creation, stated that this transition is a natural progression of their flavor-first philosophy, designed to make exploring whisky profiles more accessible and rewarding for both newcomers and seasoned members. The new classifications enable customers to find their preferred flavors more intuitively. Every bottle continues to embody SMWS's commitment to excellence, rich flavor, and cask strength; for SMWS, the liquid itself remains paramount, not its age or origin. The new system incorporates years of tasting feedback and data from the SMWS expert panel. Other categories include 'Sweet & Zesty' – encompassing everything from sorbet-like effervescence to candied citrus – and 'Coastal & Maritime', symbolizing the essence of the sea with saline notes and a hint of sweetness. Members can experience the new classifications at SMWS venues in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London, while non-members can visit the Kaleidoscope Bar in Edinburgh. SMWS introduced its original twelve-category system in 2012, and this refinement to eight further demonstrates the organization's dedication to making whisky selections more intuitive for all enthusiasts.
2025-10-03
Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/smws-refines-signature-range-with-eight-new-flavor-first-profiles/