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Be its presence at any house party or while savouring it at any bar, the cherished drink never fails to impress the guests.
The rich flavours and timeless appeal of the drink, alongside a few more improvisations like the smoky allure of Scotch, caramelised sweetness of Bourbon, or more tells us unique stories of its origins, ingredients and craftsmanship. (News18 Hindi)
Whiskey or whisky, commonly called the ‘water of life,’ is one of the beloved beverages around the world. This is simply termed as the favourite part of any occasion. Be its presence at any house party or while savouring it at any bar, the cherished drink never fails to impress the guests. The rich flavours and timeless appeal of the drink, alongside a few more improvisations like the smoky allure of Scotch, caramelised sweetness of Bourbon, or more tells us unique stories of its origins, ingredients and craftsmanship.
Let’s raise a glass and uncover the secret behind the making of whiskey.
Scotch Whisky
Simply referred to as ‘scotch’, this whisky is crafted exclusively in Scotland. It is known for its complex distillation process and tight regulations and laws by which the spirit is made. The primary ingredient in scotch is malted barley, but various brands also include other cereals in their crafting process. It is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years and at times, savoured with a smoky flavour with the use of peat water.
Canadian Whisky
Also known as ‘Rye’ whisky, this is known for its light and smooth flavour. However, the primary ingredient isn’t ‘rye’. Instead, it is made of a mash bill of corn, wheat and barley, with each grain distilled separately before blending. It is aged for at least three years in oak barrels for the premium balance of textures. Additionally, a spicy and smoky flavour makes it a standout in classic cocktails.
Irish Whiskey
This whiskey is counted among the oldest distilled spirits in the world, and is known for its smoothness. It is traditionally made from a malt mash (at times also from unmalted barley) and distilled three times using both water and caramel colouring. Irish whiskeys also have a subtle sweetness and possess a light, fruity profile.
Japanese Whisky
This whisky, which follows the Scotland whisky’s ‘without e’ spelling, is a relative newcomer in this line. However, it has also gained much popularity amongst the production of whiskies. It is one of the finest Scotches made from malted barley.
Single Malt Whiskey
This is another type of whiskey which is crafted from a single batch at a distillery. The key ingredient of Single Malt Whiskey is malted barley. But a few brands in America also make the beverage from rye. They are then aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels for a smooth taste.
Tennessee Whiskey
This whiskey is considered a close cousin of the Bourbon whiskey. However, it is distinguished from the latter through the Lincoln County Process and involves filtering through charcoal. Only then the Tennessee whiskey is left for aging, for a smoother finish. But both Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey contain at least 51% corn and are aged in new, charred oak barrels.
Bourbon Whiskey
Styled in American fashion, this whiskey is prepared from Bourbon at least 51% corn mash. Its distinguished flavour and smoothness represent the American heritage and craftsmanship. This is then aged in new, charred oak barrels by imparting a process of rich, caramelised sweetness alongside notes of vanilla, oak and spice. It is then filtered with limestone water and bottled at 80-proof or higher.
