Scotch whisky is a distilled alcoholic beverage made primarily from malted barley and aged in oak barrels for at least three years. It originates from Scotland and is known for its distinct flavors, which can vary widely depending on the region of production, such as Islay, Speyside, or Highlands. There are two main types of Scotch: single malt, made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery, and blended, which combines malt and grain whiskies from different distilleries. Scotch must adhere to strict regulations, including being produced in Scotland and bottled at a minimum of 40% alcohol by volume.