If one has ever wandered the aisles of a local liquor store, they have probably noticed an overwhelming number of whiskies options available. One may have also tried some Scotch or Bourbon and wondered what made those two drinks taste so different and distinguishably delicious. Well, wonder no more! Here’s everything one needs to know about whisky to select an extravagant range and store it safely. It’s all about their making and what distinguishes each variety from the next.
What Is It?
It is a world of smoke, peat and history. This fermented alcoholic beverage has a flavoursome composition. It is also a spirit often misunderstood by those who don’t know enough about it or have never taken enough time to try it out. Meanwhile, one can set oneself apart as an expert in anything when one understands the basics—and this article will help do just that!
How Do They Make It?
The beverage is made from fermented grain mash, then distilled to make a clear liquid. The clear liquid is aged in oak barrels for varying amounts of periods until it becomes what it is. So, the longer the spirit ages in these oak casks, the more expensive it will be. Liquor with more age tends to be better quality and has a richer flavour profile than younger whiskies that have spent less time maturing in oak barrels.
What’s the Difference Between Scotch and Bourbon?
There are two main differences between Scotch and Bourbon:
- Scotch originated in Scotland and Bourbon in the United States.
- Scotch must be aged for at least three years, while Bourbon must be for at least two years. Moreover, for their delicate taste, some of the most common types of Scotch age in oak casks for 14-20 years!
Difference Between Single-Malt and Blended Versions
How does one choose the right one? Here are the main differences between single-malt and blended whiskies:
- Single-malt is made from 100% malted barley, while blended contains a variety and mix of different kinds of malt and grain whiskies.
- Single malt tastes smoother and rich than blends, so it costs more. Blended whiskies are generally cheaper because they use less expensive materials like corn (instead of barley) or wheat (instead of rye).
How to Drink It?
- Whisky can be served neat or “straight up,” as they say in the business. But beware of too much of this since it gives headaches.
- Most whiskies are best with water or ice, which will open up the flavours and soften them (as well as dilute any alcohol). And if one wants to drink it with ice, make sure it’s not too cold; otherwise, the ice will melt quickly and not add much flavour to the drink.
- It’s always good practice to keep it at room temperature—any colder than that, and it might taste flat compared with other whiskies that are properly stored in a cabinet or cupboard somewhere else in your house!
How to Find the Best-Tasting One
To find the best one, taste several different types. Each type has its flavour profile and history that can help determine whether or not it’s something you would enjoy drinking regularly. And once you have tried a few different types of whiskey, try many brands. This process will give you an idea of how each company interprets their spirit and what makes them unique in its market space.
After determining which regions are best for your tastes, consider the origins before making the final selection. Many distilleries also offer tours or tastings so visitors can see where their favourite spirit comes from!
