A symbol of taste and class, whisky 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.
Familiarize yourself with the multiple kinds of whisky available, and maybe you can even discover your favorite one in the process.
Related Article: Whisky Cocktail Recipes to Try at Home
1. 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.
2. 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
- Teeling Single Malt Whisky
3. Blended malt
This is when two single malts from separate distilleries are blended together.
Blended malt available at minuman.com:
4. 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:
5. Blended grain
This is when two single grain whiskies from separate distilleries are blended together.
6. Blended whisky
This is when one or more single grains are blended together.
Blended whisky available at minuman.com:
7. 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.
Irish whisky available at minuman.com:
8. 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
Bourbon available at minuman.com:
9. Japanese whisky
Commercial whisky production in Japan began in 1924 with the opening of the Yamazaki distillery. The quality and flavors 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:
Looking for your favorite whisky? Minuman.com provides the widest selection of whiskies. Order now and have your whisky delivered to your doorstep with fast delivery.
