Whiskey Types: Exploring Varieties and Flavours

A scotch is a whisky that comes straight from the charming hills of Scotland. It’s like a taste of Scotland’s soul, shaped by the country’s unique climate and natural wonders. Here’s the twist – unlike Irish whiskey’s triple distillation tradition (though not always, mind you!), Scotch whisky usually enjoys a double distillation journey, adding its own twist to the tale.

Now, let’s spice it up a bit – when they tinker with barley and make it ‘peated,’ some Scotch whiskeys get that distinctive smoky flavour. Think of it as a nod to a cosy campfire on a chilly Scottish night. So, while Irish whiskey tends to be your smooth, creamy buddy with a fruity finish and a hint of spice, Scotch can sway towards a smokier, drier, and sometimes fruitier character.

It’s a bit like picking between two different dance partners – both have their unique moves. And yes, it might not be everyone’s cup of dram, but those who fall for its charms are head over heels. Especially those who have a soft spot for the captivating allure of Islay.

IS BOURBON A TYPE OF WHISKEY?

Bourbon vs Whiskey is a timeless debate. Bourbon is the American sweetheart of whiskeys, crafted mainly from corn and aged lovingly in new charred oak barrels. Yep, it’s the real deal, born in the USA – though not always from the famous Kentucky. The secret sauce? Well, it’s all about that mash bill, a fancy term for the grain mix that makes the magic happen. Bourbon’s mash bill dances to its own tune, with a minimum of 51% corn, and guess what? No sneaky additives allowed. Oh, and here’s a twist – it can go for a single dance through the still and still rock that bourbon title.

So, let’s dive into the exciting flavours. Bourbon is like a sweet symphony, with a rich taste that’ll make your taste buds dance. Picture this: caramel, vanilla, and oak notes creating a harmony of yumminess. And oh, the corn – it adds its own twist of unique sweetness that sets bourbon apart from the crowd.

Now, here’s the cool part – bourbon’s got its own little family tree too. Say hello to straight bourbon, aged in fresh, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years, and it’s all about keeping it pure – no added flavours or colours allowed. Then there’s the charming small batch bourbon, where a handful of barrels get together to create a unique flavour party.

And there you have it, my friends – a sneak peek into the world of whiskey classification, where bourbon proudly waves its corn-filled flag. Here’s to exploring the diverse world of flavours, raising a glass to bourbon’s sweetness, and toasting to the intriguing realm of flavoured whiskey.

IS BOURBON THE SAME AS RYE WHISKEY THEN?

Simply put, they’re not quite the same.

Here’s the scoop: Rye swooped into the US scene and stirred things up, changing the whiskey game forever. Thriving in the American soil and climate, it became a favourite crop in the northeastern states. And of course, where there’s rye, there’s gotta be whiskey in the making!

Now, pay attention, fellow adventurers – rye whiskey follows a similar dance routine as bourbon. They both start with fermenting a mash, but here’s the twist: rye takes the lead with at least 51% rye grains, while bourbon leans on corn for that signature kick. The result? A rye whiskey that’s all about that spicy, peppery zing, a dash of fruitiness, a whisper of sweetness, and a dry finish that sets it apart from the whiskey crowd.

So, my friends, as we journey into the intricate world of the distillation process of whiskey and explore the delightful diversity that different grains bring, let’s raise our glasses to rye’s boldness, bourbon’s charm, and the flavorful tapestry of whiskey wonders. Cheers to sipping, savouring, and celebrating the unique character each category brings to the table!