A symbol of taste and class, whisk(e)y has been around for generations, consumed mostly neat or on the rocks. However straightforward it seems to drink it, this liquor made of distilled grain mash comes in many varieties.
Just as it is with other alcoholic beverages, there are different types of whisky. They vary depending on the region of production, methods of production, and the different grains being used to create the drink.
Familiarise yourself with the multiple kinds of whisky available, and maybe you can even discover your favourite one in the process.
Related Article: Whisky Cocktail Recipes to Try at Home
Scotch whisky
Originating in Scotland, “scotch” is made of malt or grain. The laws maintaining whisky state that distillers must age the spirit in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Scotch also has a minimum ABV of 40%.
Of all the whiskies available, Scotch is best consumed neat so that the palate can appreciate its heavy earthy notes. But even then, there are multiple types of scotch whiskies that you can enjoy.
Related Article: Savoring the Essence: A Scotch Whisky Experience
Scotch Whisky available at minuman.com:
- The Macallan 12yrs - Sherry Oak - Single Malt Whisky - 700ml
- Monkey Shoulder - Blended Whisky - 700ml
- Bowmore 12yrs - Single Malt Whisky - 700ml
Single malt
In order to be considered a single malt, the whisky must be produced in a single distillery from a single batch of scotch. Since it’s still a scotch, single malts also need to be aged for 3 years in oak barrels.
You may be wondering what makes a scotch 'single malt'? This liquor is called “single” malt because the main ingredient only consists of malted barley.
Related Article: Single Malt and Blended Whisky: What’s the Difference?
Single malt available at minuman.com:
- Singleton 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky
- Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky
- Suntory Whiskey Kakubin Single Malt Whiskey
Blended malt
This is when two single malts from separate distilleries are blended together.
Blended malt available at minuman.com:
- Label 5 - Classic Black - Blended Whisky - 700ml
- Sterling Reserve - B10 Premium - Blended Whisky - 750ml
- Naked Malt - Blended Whisky - 700ml
Single grain
A single grain whisky is only produced in one distillery. The term “single” here doesn’t refer to how many grains are used, because it can include multiple.
Single grain available at minuman.com:
Blended grain
This is when two single grain whiskies from separate distilleries are blended together.
Blended grain available at minuman.com:
- Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey - 700ml
- Makers Mark - Bourbon Whiskey - 750ml
- Nikka Coffey Grain - Blended Whisky - 700ml
Blended whisky
This is when one or more single grains are blended together.
Blended whisky available at minuman.com:
- Bushmills Original - Blended Whiskey - 700ml
- Bells Original Scotch - Blended Whisky - 700ml
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Johnnie Walker - Black Label - Blended Whisky - 750ml
Related Article: Single Malt and Blended Whisky: What’s the Difference?
Irish whisky
The next type of whisky comes from Ireland. Irish whisky is commonly used in cocktails. It’s made of a mash of malts, and is produced exclusively in Ireland. It’s known for its smooth finish.
For a while, Irish whiskey was all the rage. At some point, there were even 28 distilleries in Ireland. However, with the decline of the market, it became less popular.
Related Article: Unwind with These Popular Irish Whiskey Cocktail Recipes
Irish whisky available at minuman.com:
-
Teeling - Small Batch - Blended Whiskey - 700ml
- Bushmills - Black Bush - Blended Whiskey - 700ml
- Tullamore Dew - Blended Whiskey - 700ml
Bourbon whisky
Bourbon is also considered American-style whisky. It’s made of corn instead of grains. In order to be named “bourbon,” the whisky has to be made of 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. Bourbon is the type of whisky used in the classic mint julep cocktail.
Other American-style whisky include
- Malt whiskey – made with 51% malted barley mash
- Corn whiskey – must contain at least 80% corn
- Rye whiskey – made with 51% rye mash
Related Article: What is The Different Between Whisky vs Bourbon?
Bourbon available at minuman.com:
Japanese whisky
Commercial whisky production in Japan began in 1924 with the opening of the Yamazaki distillery. The quality and flavours of Japanese whisky are said to be close contenders to that of the scotch. This is because it was always intended to replicate that style.
Japanese whisky available at minuman.com:
-
Hakushu - Distillers Reserve - 700ml
- Eigashima - Blended Whisky - 700ml
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Hibiki - Japanese Harmony - Blended Whisky - 700ml
Canadian whiskey
Canadian whisky is known for its smooth, light character, largely due to a legal requirement that it must be barrel-aged for a minimum of three years. This aging process gives the whisky its mellow flavor, making it easy to drink. It’s typically made from a high corn content, sometimes blended with rye, wheat, or barley, which creates a balanced and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of spice from the rye.
One unique aspect of Canadian whisky is its "blended" nature. While the term "rye whisky" is often used, many Canadian whiskies don’t contain a large amount of rye. Instead, they feature a blend of different grains, sometimes from multiple distilleries, to create a consistent and versatile product. This makes Canadian whisky perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Whisky Sour.
Looking for your favourite whisky? Minuman.com provides a comprehensive selection of whiskies. Order now and have your whisky delivered to your doorstep with fast delivery.
