“The Ultimate Guide to Whiskey. The Perfect Tipple for Any Occasion!”
When it comes to popular spirits, whiskey sits high atop the list. Whether it’s a shot at the bar, a smooth aged malt to indulge in on special occasions, or a unique blend of various flavors, whiskey has something for just about everyone.
Whiskey can be traced back to the middle ages, when it was distilled and aged in oak barrels to help it mature and enhance its flavor. As whiskey made its way around the world, it evolved into a variety of styles, based primarily on region and ingredients used.
The most popular varieties of whiskey include Scotch, Irish and American Whiskey, as well as Japanese whiskey, Canadian whisky, and a few others.
Scotch whiskey is produced in Scotland and is, fundamentally, a single malt spirit that must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. The Scotch Whisky Association defines Scotch whiskey as “a distinctive product of Scotland”, which is why it continues to be celebrated for its signature smoky, peaty flavor.
Irish whiskey is made in Ireland, and must be distilled three times before being aged in wooden barrels for at least three years. The light and mellow flavor of Irish whiskey can vary depending on the type—single malt is made 100 percent from malted barley, while a blended whiskey combines malt and grain whiskeys.
American whiskey rarely follows a strict set of regulations, which is why there are so many different varieties available. Most American whiskeys are made from a mash, or combination of different grains, such as corn, rye, wheat, and barley. Bourbon whiskey, in particular, must contain at least 51 percent corn and is made and aged to strict regulations, making it the most recognizable variety of American Whiskey.
Japanese whiskey has grown in popularity over recent years, and is made according to the same rules of Scotch whiskey. It’s typically distilled from a combination of malt and grains, and is often aged in oak barrels and blended.
Canadian whisky is a type of blended whisky, meaning it contains different grains, and must be aged in barrels for at least three years. When it comes to taste, this spirit has a distinctively smooth and mellow finish, which makes it popular for cocktail mixing.
No matter what your preference, Whiskey offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or a connoisseur, the perfect tipple awaits you. So why not take a closer look at the different varieties of whiskey and find the one that best fits your taste? You may just find your perfect spirit!