Whiskey is often portrayed in movies and TV shows as the drink of mysterious and badass men. This can make this incredible drink seem like a complicated drink that only rough men and avid connoisseurs can enjoy.
Fortunately, whiskey is much more than that! In this article, we will give the keys you need to better understand whiskey and give you the confidence to give it a try! So keep reading!
What is Whiskey?
Whiskey is an alcoholic beverage that is distilled from a fermented mixture of grains, commonly known as ‘mash’. The most common grains used in whiskey production are barley, corn, rye, and wheat. The process of making whiskey involves fermenting the grain mash with yeast, distilling the resulting liquid to increase its alcohol content, and then ageing it in oak barrels to impart flavour and colour.
Origins of Whiskey
The origins of whiskey can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when distillation was first discovered in Europe. The first recorded mention of whiskey comes from the Irish Annals of Clonmacnoise, which date back to the 12th century. It was first known as "uisce beatha" or "water of life" in Gaelic, and it quickly became a popular drink in Ireland and Scotland.
Whiskey is now produced all over the world, although some countries are more well-known for their whiskey production than others. Some of the most famous whiskey-producing countries include Scotland (which produces Scotch whisky), Ireland (which produces Irish whiskey), the United States (which produces bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey, among others), Canada (which produces Canadian whisky), and Japan (which produces Japanese whisky).
Other countries that produce whiskey include Australia, India, and Taiwan, among others. The production of whiskey has become a global industry, with distilleries in many different countries producing unique and flavourful whiskies.
Types of Whiskey
As mentioned above, there are several different types of whiskey, each with its own unique characteristics and flavour profile. The most common types of whiskey are:
- Scotch whiskey: This type of whiskey is made in Scotland and is known for its smoky, peaty flavour. It is made from malted barley and is aged in oak casks for at least three years.
- Irish whiskey: This whiskey is made in Ireland and is known for its smooth, mellow flavour. It is made from a combination of malted and unmalted barley and is aged for at least three years.
- American whiskey: This type of whiskey is made in the United States and includes several sub-categories, including bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn and is aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least two years. Rye whiskey is made from at least 51% rye and is aged in oak barrels for at least two years. Tennessee whiskey is a type of bourbon that is filtered through charcoal before being aged in barrels.
- Canadian whiskey: This type of whiskey is made in Canada and is known for its light, smooth flavour. It is made from a blend of different grains, including corn, rye, and barley, and is aged for at least three years.
- Japanese whiskey: This type of whiskey is made in Japan and is known for its delicate, complex flavour. It is made from a blend of different grains and is aged for at least three years.
How to Drink Whiskey
Whiskey is typically enjoyed neat (without any mixers or ice) or on the rocks (with ice). Some people prefer to add a splash of water to their whiskey, as this can help to open up the flavour and aroma of the spirit.
When drinking whiskey, it is important to use a proper whiskey glass, such as a Glencairn glass or a tumbler. These glasses are designed to enhance the aroma and flavour of the whiskey.
Whiskey can also be used in a variety of cocktails, including the classic Old Fashioned and Manhattan.
What is a good beginner Whiskey?
For someone who is just starting to explore the world of whiskey, it is a good idea to start with a whiskey that is smooth and easy to drink, with a mild flavour profile that is not too overpowering. We would advise you to try BLACKLAND’s Texas Pecan Brown Sugar Bourbon.
Indeed, this whiskey has a well-balanced flavour profile with a subtle yet discernible pecan taste that comes through on the front palate. The sweetness of the bourbon is just right, providing a pleasant mouthfeel without being too overpowering.
Whiskey is a complex and fascinating spirit with a rich history and many different styles and varieties. Whether you prefer Scotch, Irish, American, Canadian, or Japanese whiskey, there is a whiskey out there for everyone. So why not pour yourself a glass and enjoy the water of life?
For more tips and advice on how to enjoy spirits, visit our blog. And for more delicious spirits from all over the world, check out our offering here. Cheers!