This ultimate guide to Scotch whisky offers an insider's look into one of the world's beloved spirits—its history, production, and traditions—along with tasting notes for more than 200 common bottlings.
 
“Scotch whisky [has an] uncanny ability to transform a mundane moment into something special and memorable.” —Margarett Waterbury
 
Scotch whisky is beloved around the world. But for the uninitiated, its diversity can be bewildering. This comprehensive guide to Scotch whisky history, production, and appreciation will help you navigate the world of Scotch with confidence. Along with an overview of its intricate production process and tips for visiting your favorite distillery, Scotch features profiles of more than 200 whiskies, from popular blends to coveted single malts, with a special focus on bottles you’re likely to find with ease. You’ll also find recommendations for matching the right whisky to the right occasion, from great values for everyday imbibing, to worth-the-splurge options for marking life’s biggest moments. Whether you're a whisky newbie, a die-hard fan, or simply malt-curious, Scotch will be your go-to resource for demystifying the greatest of whiskies.

Margarett Waterbury is a full-time freelance writer whose work has appeared in Food & Wine, Spirited Magazine, Whisky Advocate, Edible Seattle, Sip Northwest, Capital Press, In Good Tilth, Civil Eats, Travel Oregon, Portrait Magazine, Artisan Spirit, and many other publications. She also judges drinks competitions. Margarett is the former managing editor of Edible Portland, as well as the cofounder and former managing editor of The Whiskey Wash, an award-winning whiskey website twice recognized as Website of the Year at the International Whisky Competition. Margarett was named the 2017 Alan Lodge Young Drinks Writer of the Year and received fellowships for the Napa Valley Symposium for Professional Wine Writers in 2017 and in 2019. She lives in Portland, OR.