Best Choices of Whisky for You
Types of Whisky
Scotch Whisky
There are four main types of Scotch whisky: single malt, blended malt, blended grain, and single grain. Single malt whiskies are made from 100% malted barley and distilled in pot stills. Blended malt whiskies are also made from 100% malted barley, but they are a blend of whiskies from different distilleries. Blended grain whiskies are made from a mixture of grains including wheat, rye, and corn. Single grain whiskies are made from one type of grain, such as wheat or corn.
Japanese Whisky
Japanese whisky is often said to rival the best Scotch whiskies in terms of quality, and it is certainly true that many Japanese whiskies are complex and delicious. However, there are some important differences between Japanese whisky and Scotch whisky. For one thing, Japanese whisky is typically made with rice rather than barley. This gives the spirit a distinctly different flavour profile, with a lightness and sweetness that is often reminiscent of sake. Additionally, Japanese whisky is typically distilled twice, while Scotch whisky is typically distilled three times. This results in a smoother, less peaty flavour for the Japanese spirit. Finally, Japanese whiskies are aged in a variety of different barrels, including sherry casks and bourbon barrels. This allows the spirit to pick up a wide range of flavours and aromas, resulting in a complex and fascinating drink.
Irish Whisky
Irish whiskey is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The grain mash for Irish whiskey typically contains a mixture of barley, corn, and rye. Irish whiskey is produced in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. The vast majority of Irish whiskey brands are produced in Ireland. The most popular brands of Irish whiskey include Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore Dew. Today, Irish whiskey is beloved by people all over the world and continues to be one of the most popular types of alcohol worldwide.
Bourbon Whisky
Bourbon whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is made from corn. It is typically aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years, and it has a characteristic amber colour. Bourbon whiskey is said to have originated in the state of Kentucky, and it gets its name from the Bourbon County where it was first produced. Bourbon whiskey must be made from at least 51% corn, and it must be distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume. The use of charred barrels is also important in the flavour of bourbon whiskey, and many producers use barrels that have been previously used to age wine or other spirits. Bourbon whiskey has a rich flavour that is often described as being sweet and smoky, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It is commonly used in cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan, and it can also be enjoyed on its own.
Canadian Whisky
There are many different types of Canadian whiskey, but they all have one thing in common: a smooth, distinctive flavour that has made them a favourite among spirit connoisseurs. Canadian whiskey is made from a blend of different grains, including corn, wheat, and rye. The grains are fermented and then distilled in copper pot stills. The resulting spirit is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Canadian whiskey has a light, mellow flavour with notes of vanilla and caramel. It is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but it can also be used in cocktails. Whether you're enjoying it on its own or mixed with other ingredients, Canadian whiskey is sure to please.
Factors
Brand
Once you've decided which type of whisky you prefer, the next step is to choose a brand. There are many different brands of whisky available on the market, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase. When tasting whisky, pay attention to the flavour profile and decide if you prefer a light, fruity whisky or a more full-bodied, peaty whisky. Once you've found a brand that you like, be sure to check the label carefully to make sure you're getting what you paid for.
Penderyn is a Welsh whisky that is known for its light, fruity notes. Haig Club is a Scottish whisky that is aged in bourbon barrels, giving it a smooth, sweet flavour. The Macallan is a classic Scotch whisky with rich, amber colour and a full-bodied flavour. Highland Park is a Scotch whisky that is distilled in Orkney, using water from local springs. The Singleton is a single malt whisky from Scotland that is renowned for its mellow, honeyed flavour. Jura is an island whisky from Scotland that has a lighter, floral flavour. Dalwhinnie is a Highland whisky that has a rich, golden colour and a distinctively spicy flavour. With so many different brands to choose from, there is sure to be a whisky to suit every taste.
Barrel Ageing
The process of ageing whisky in oak barrels is an essential part of creating the unique flavour profiles for which these spirits are renowned. The type of wood used, as well as the length of time the whisky is left to mature, can have a profound impact on the final product. Sherry casks, for example, impart a sweet and fruity character, while French oak adds spicy notes. Bourbon casks create a smooth and mellow flavour profile, while barrique adds a touch of smokiness. All of these different factors combine to create the distinctive taste of each individual whisky.
As for the time, some believe that 15 years is the perfect amount of time to allow the whisky to develop its flavour, while others argue that 30 or even 40 years is necessary to achieve the full potential of the drink. There are pros and cons to both 15 years and 30 years, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference.
How to Taste Whisky
Now that you know how to choose a Scotch whisky, it's time to learn how to taste it like a pro!
Whisky is a complex spirit, and tasting it can be a rewarding experience. There are four main ways to taste whisky: neat, with water, with ice, and with a mixer. Neat means that the whisky is poured into a glass without any additional ingredients. This is the best way to experience the full range of flavours in the whisky. However, some people find the alcohol content to be too strong when neat. In this case, adding a few drops of water can help to open up the flavours and make the whisky more drinkable. Ice can also be used to mellow out the flavour of whisky, but it should be used sparingly so as not to dull the taste. Finally, mixing whisky with soda or juice is a popular way to enjoy it, and can also help to mask any undesirable flavours. Whichever way you choose to taste it, taking the time to appreciate the flavour of whisky can be a truly enjoyable experience.
When tasting whisky, always use a clean glass and pour a small amount (about an ounce) into the glass. Swirl the whisky in the glass and take a deep sniff, paying attention to the aromas. Take a small sip of the whisky and let it sit on your tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. Pay attention to the flavours and textures that you notice. Is it sweet? Fruity? Smoky? Peaty? Spicy?