Scotch is a type of whiskey that is made exclusively in Scotland according to strict regulations set by the Scotch Whisky Association. Scotch whisky has very strict regulations for how it must be produced. It must be made from malted barley, water, and yeast, and distilled in Scotland. All Scotch whisky was originally made from malted barley, but commercial distilleries began introducing whisky made from wheat and rye in the late 18th century. Single malt Scotch whisky is made using an age-old process that uses natural, raw ingredients: malted barley, fresh spring water, and yeast. The production of single malt Scotch whisky begins with malting the barley by steeping it in water and spreading it across a malting floor, allowing it to germinate. This starts the conversion of starch within the barley into sugars, which mixed with yeast will create the alcohol. Typically, single malt Scotch whisky is double distilled in distinctive copper pot stills. These stills are like very large kettles heating the liquid inside. The first distillation takes place in the ‘wash’ still where the alcohol vapors rise to the top first. The vapors pass over the head of the still before they are guided through a condenser as they return to a liquid form. After some time in oak casks, the whisky is ready to be enjoyed the world over. To be considered Scotch, the whiskey must be made from malted barley and aged for a minimum of three years in oak casks in Scotland.