Quote
Subtotal: $0
Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-09-05 Origin: Site
True whiskey lovers know their dram. With just one sip, most people can tell the different types of whiskey - from smoky to floral and even fruity. But if you're a first-time whiskey drinker, there's a lot to learn. If you want to increase your whisky knowledge, scroll down.
Whisk(e)y is spelled two ways. Scotch whisky (only whisky produced in Scotland can be called Scotch) and Scottish-inspired spirits do not have an "e" in the spelling. Whiskey made in Ireland or the United States begins with an "e".
To make whiskey, you only need three key whiskey ingredients: barley, yeast, and water. Sounds simple enough, right? Different types of whiskey use different grains, but all whiskey needs some sort of barley to help start the fermentation process and bring out the flavor of the whiskey.
Water, although the simplest of the three ingredients, is actually considered the most important in the whiskey-making process. The water must be clear, clean, and free of any impurities that could alter the flavor of the whisky. Because water is so important to whiskey-making, many distilleries are located near rivers or lakes. Due to the water, geographical differences in whiskey play a large role in the flavor.
There are three main types of whiskey in the United States: Bourbon, Rye, and American Single Malt.
Bourbon has pretty strict rules, but some of them may be different than what you've heard. First of all, bourbon doesn't have to be made in Kentucky, but 95% of bourbon is made in Kentucky.
Bourbon can be made practically anywhere in the United States, but it has to be made in the United States.
It must be aged for at least two years in a new charred oak barrel.
The mash must contain at least 51% corn.
The whiskey should not exceed 125 proof (62.5% ABV) and cannot be bottled at less than 80 (40% ABV).
Nothing but water should be added, and only to lessen the proof when necessary.
To be classified as rye whiskey in the United States, it must be made from at least 51% rye grain. Many distilleries add a higher percentage of rye to their rye whiskey for an extra spicy, irresistible flavor.
Rye is naturally spicier than other grains such as wheat and corn, resulting in a whiskey that has a pungent flavor, often described as having a black pepper or clove taste. Some of the first rye whiskeys in the United States were made from 100% rye. This whiskey was very spicy and dry. Today, most rye whiskey is made from malt syrup containing other grains such as corn, malt, and wheat.
Irish whiskey is a type of whiskey produced only in the region of Ireland. It is categorized in the same way as Scotch Whiskey, which is located across the sea from it, into two categories: pure wheat and blended. However, there are two main differences between the Irish and Scottish practices. First, Irish whiskey uses almost no peat as fuel when roasting the malt, so there is no smoky flavor. Second, Irish whiskey is distilled three times and Scotch is distilled twice.
The flavor of Scotch whisky has a lot to do with terroir; Islay expressions tend to be peaty or smoky (which makes for great campfire whisky), while expressions from Speyside are full of fruit. However, if you break it down, there are basically two types of whisky produced in Scotland: single malt and blended.
Single Malt: Single Malt Scotch Whisky is made in Scotland and distilled in a distillery using a pot still process. It is made from mashed malt.
Blended: Blended Scotch whisky can be a mix of malt and grain whisky from several different distilleries.
Canadian whisky is often a blend of grains, usually corn and rye. Similar to Scotch whisky and Irish whiskey, Canadian whisky must be aged in Canada for at least three years.
Japanese whisky is usually based on barley. If it is blended with other grain spirits, it is a blended Japanese whisky. If it's 100% malt, it's a single-malt Japanese whisky.
Bourbon is known for its silky and smooth mouthfeel. The rich corn-potato mash means it's sweet, and the oak aging process gives it flavors of nuts, vanilla, caramel, fruit, and spice. In cocktails, bourbon adds depth and complexity, as well as a lingering oak finish. It can be the dominant flavor in a cocktail, or it can lay the foundation for a strong flavor profile.
Rye whiskey is bold, and assertive, and stimulates the taste buds. It can range from grassy and peppery to oaky, fruity, and smoky with heavy spices. In cocktails, rye leads the dance and many classic cocktails rely on its robust character and body.
Not only are there many types of whiskey, but there are also many types of whiskey bottles. Choosing the right bottle can be a daunting task because there are so many options, but by breaking down each bottle's unique personality, you can find the right bottle for everyone. Here are some of our picks for whiskey bottles.
Our whisky glass bottles add a touch of luxury and you can add a personalized message with our customization service. Search our online whiskey bottle store for one of the largest collections for whiskey lovers. Give a gift that's full of spirit.
