How to Explore the World of Whisky: A Guide to Popular Styles

Whisky, also spelled whiskey, is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the world, enjoyed by millions of people in different countries. It’s a distilled spirit that’s made from fermented grains, including barley, corn, rye, and wheat. The process of making whisky involves distilling the fermented grains, and then aging the resulting spirit in barrels made from oak. Whisky is known for its distinct flavour profile and smooth finish, which is why it’s so beloved by enthusiasts all over the world.

Where is Whisky from?

When it comes to the origins of whisky, it’s believed that the drink was first produced in Scotland in the late 15th century. Over time, whisky production spread to other countries, including Ireland, the United States, and Japan. Today, whisky is made in many different regions around the world, each with its own unique style and flavour.

Scotch Whisky

One of the most popular types of whisky is Scotch, which is made exclusively in Scotland. Scotch whisky is typically made from malted barley, and aged for a minimum of three years. It’s known for its smoky, peaty flavor profile, which is a result of the barley being dried over peat fires during the malting process.

Irish Whiskey

Another popular whisky style is Irish whiskey, which is made in Ireland. Irish whiskey is known for its smooth, sweet flavour, which is a result of the use of triple distillation. Irish whisky is typically made from a combination of malted and un-malted barley, and aged for a minimum of three years.

Bourbon

Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that’s made primarily from corn. To be considered bourbon, the whiskey must be made in the United States and aged in new, charred oak barrels. Bourbon is known for its sweet, caramel flavour profile, which is a result of the corn used in the production process.

Japanese Whisky

Japanese whisky has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its unique flavour profile and smooth finish. Japanese whisky is made using a combination of malted and unmalted barley, and is typically aged for a minimum of three years. The result is a smooth, mellow whisky with a delicate flavour profile which work amazingly in whisky highballs.

For the love of Whisky

Whisky is a beloved spirit enjoyed all over the world. It has a rich history and comes in many different styles. From the smoky, peaty scotches of Scotland to the smooth, mellow bourbons of Kentucky, there is a whisky for everyone. Whisky can be enjoyed in many different ways, such as neat (without any mixers or ice), on the rocks (with ice), or in a cocktail. Some popular whisky cocktails include the Old Fashioned, the Manhattan, and the Whisky Sour.. So, next time you pour yourself a glass, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.