Introduction To Whiskey

You all know what whiskey is, or, at the very least, what it does to you. If not, you only have to take a quick trip to the local pub or bar and order a glass or two to find out. But there are a handful of different types of whiskey, and if you want the best, you'll have to learn a few things about this famous drink.

What About It?

Whiskey is an umbrella term for alcoholic beverages that come from different varieties of fermented grain which include: barley, malted barley, wheat, corn, rye, malted rye, and sometimes, a combination of grains (called blended whiskey). The difference in base products translates to differences in alcohol content and product quality.

Where Did it Come From?

Whiskey is said to have existed in Ireland since the 1400s. Although it originated in Ireland, it was the Scottish who launched its popularity.

Today, there are about a hundred or so manufacturing distilleries of whiskey in Scotland. Scotch whiskey is distilled twice, and aged for a minimum of three years is oak casks.

Another thing about Scotch whiskey is that the barley used for the manufacture of whiskey is imported across continents - that is, Australia.

In Ireland, there are many companies that produce world-class whiskey. Irish whiskey, unlike Scottish whiskey, is distilled three times. By law, it is required three years of fermentation, although in practice, Irish whiskey is usually aged for 9 - 12 years. The most common Irish whiskey are Blended whiskey, Single Malt, and Single Grain. But Pure Pot Still Whiskey is unique to Ireland. Among the most popular Irish whiskey brands are: Bushmill, Jameson, and Paddy Old Irish

Types of Whiskey

There are more than just two types of whiskey. Aside from Scotch and Irish whiskey, there is Japanese whiskey, American whiskey, Canadian Whiskey, Welsch whiskey, and Indian whiskey.

There are a variety of single malt and blended Japanese whiskey which locally marketed. But some Japanese whiskey measures up to the standard of Scotch, as well as Irish whiskey.

There are three common types or "named" of American whiskey. These are Rye whiskey (at least 51% rye), Bourbon whiskey (made from at least 51% fermented corn), and Corn whiskey (made from at least 80% corn). There are also blended American whiskey, which are combined with the "named" whiskey. American whiskey has a distinct taste and aroma, which results from aging in charred oak containers.

Canadian whiskey is known for its light and smooth taste. Canadian whiskey are also derived from malted rye, which gives it full flavour and smoothness. Like all other whiskey, Canadian whiskey has a minimum fermentation of three years.

Welsh whiskey sells single malt whiskey all over the world. Quality and taste is also impressive.

Labelled "whisky" in India, Indian whiskey is made from fermented molasses. There are other types of Indian whiskey which are distilled from fermented malt and other grains, but 90% of Indian whiskey is molasses based.

Now you are aware of the different types of whiskey, you still have a long way to go. You'll have to drink your way to really learn how to choose the best whiskey for your taste. So, cheers!

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About The Author, Bradlley Mckoy
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