Malt & Brew

The Whisky Journal

Guides, rituals and honest advice on glassware, decanters and the home bar — written by people who spend far too much time thinking about whisky.

Whisky 101

Japanese Whisky: The Complete Beginner's Guide

What Japanese whisky actually is, why it tastes different from Scotch, and the 2021 labelling standard that separates the real thing from bulk spirit with a Japanese name on the label.

27 Aug 2026 12 min read

Gifting

Barware Gifts That Actually Get Used

Most barware gifts die in a cupboard because they were bought for how they look in a box, not how they work in a hand. Here's how the people who pack thousands of them choose barware gifts that survive past February.

20 Aug 2025 3 min read

Whisky 101

Ageing whisky – what does it do?

Oak, air and time: what ageing really does to whisky, and why the barrel matters as much as the still.

28 Jun 2022 1 min read

Whisky 101

Facts about Polish Whisky

Poland is better known for vodka — but its whisky scene is worth a look. A few facts that might surprise you.

26 Jun 2022 1 min read

Whisky 101

Why aged whisky tastes better

What actually happens inside the barrel, and why extra years usually mean a deeper, rounder dram.

22 Jun 2022 1 min read