What is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The grains used for whiskey can be divided into three main categories: malted barley, rye, and corn. These grains are typically combined to create different variations of whiskey, with each resulting in a unique flavor. Whiskey can also be aged in wooden casks, which helps to give it a unique flavor and mouthfeel.
When it comes to whiskey, there are two broad categories: single malt whiskey and blended whiskey.
What is Single Malt Whiskey?
Single malt whiskey is a malt whiskey which has been made from a single type of malted grain. It is usually distilled twice in a pot still and is usually associated with Scotch whisky. Single malt whiskey is often seen as the best quality whiskey and is considered to be the most traditional whisky.
Single malt whisky is usually made from barley and is usually aged in oak casks, which helps to give it its distinctive flavor. Single malt whisky is best served straight, without any ice or mixers, and is usually aged for at least three years.
What is Blended Whiskey?
Blended whiskey is a type of whiskey which is made from a combination of different fermented grains. Unlike single malt whiskey, it is made from a mix of malted barley, corn, and other grains, as well as malt and grain spirit. It is usually distilled three times in a continuous still.
Blended whiskey is often seen as the more conventional type of whiskey and is much more affordable than single malt whiskey. It is commonly used for mixing cocktails, such as the popular whiskey sour.
Differences Between Single Malt and Blended Whiskey
While both single malt and blended whiskey share some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two. Here are a few of the most notable:
Taste
Single malt whiskey is usually seen as having a more complex flavor than blended whiskey. This is because single malt whiskey is made from just one type of grain and is usually aged in oak casks, whereas blended whiskey contains multiple grains and is usually distilled fewer times. As a result, single malt whiskey tends to be richer, fuller-bodied, and more intense in flavor than blended whiskey.
Price
Single malt whiskey is usually more expensive than blended whiskey. This is because single malt whiskey is made from just one type of grain and is typically aged for longer periods, which can add to the cost.
Uses
Single malt whiskey is usually served as a neat drink, without any mixers or ice, whereas blended whiskey is typically used for cocktails and drinks with mixers.
Conclusion
Single malt and blended whiskey are two main types of whisky. While both have some similarities, there are also some key differences which set them apart, including taste, price, and uses. Single malt whiskey tends to be more complex, fuller-bodied, and intense in flavor, whereas blended whiskey is usually more affordable and is best suited for cocktails and drinks with mixers.
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