Whiskey

What Is Whiskey?

Whiskey is an alcoholic spirit that is made from fermented grain mash. It can be made from a range of different grains that produce different varieties of whiskey. The most common grains are barley, malt, wheat, corn, and rye. 

Whiskey is normally aged in American oak barrels for a variety of times. The longer the time spent in the barrel, the smoother, more complex, and rounded the flavor. It is no surprise that the longer time spent aging the more expensive the bottle as well.

There are so many characteristics of regional whiskey around the world. Each corner of the world that produces the spirit has a different set of rules that they follow. However, in broad strokes, the typical widespread characteristics are the fermentation of grains, distillation, and aging in wooden barrels.

Whiskey is around 80 proof generally, making it a standardly strong liquor. Some of the smaller, artisanal whiskey productions elevate the strength up higher, though this is seen as the expectation.

Everyone has their favorite whiskies. It tends to be the one liquor that people stick to religiously, once they find the best whiskey for them. There are so many alternatives out there that we recommend, especially when you order whiskey online. 
ASW Distillery commitment to quality shines through in every aspect of this remarkable dram.

What Is Whiskey Made Up Of? 

Whiskey is made up of just three ingredients: water, the grain of choice, and yeast. The most common grain is malted barley in regular whiskey, though this varies as previously discussed.

The water is generally purified water, to ensure the fermentation process does not spoil with any unwanted bacteria or toxins. The mashing of the grain, along with the addition of water and agitation, releases the natural sugars of the grain.

The sugars are then consumed by the yeast during the fermentation process, which can last up to 96 hours. The fermented product is then distilled, where it turns from a meager 5 proof into the mighty 80 proof and up that we associate with whiskey.

The different grains are mashed and fermented in different methods across different production houses. The fact remains that the grains are generally treated in the same way to release the sugars.

When you buy whiskey online, can gain access to all of these different varieties, and are able to taste the subtle differences between them. With the minimal ingredients list, it is evident that it largely comes down to the process that creates a unique flavor. 

Which Are The Types Of Whiskies Available?

The type of whiskies that are available mostly depends on the country they were produced in. Each country has its own method of production, be it ancient or recent. This tends to be the determining factor when advertising a whiskey, however, there are more technical aspects that can determine the type of whiskey.

Irish whiskey, the original, is made from a mash of malt. It is distilled in wooden casks for at least three years, creating a smooth spirit you can sip neat or on the rocks. The second most popular whiskey is Scotch Whisky, or simply Scotch. 

There are more rules that Scotch producers have to follow, including a minimum of three years of aging in oak barrels. There must be an age statement for each bottle and is generally recommended to drink straight.

Other notable, newer whiskeys include Canadian and Japanese whiskey. Japanese is produced to resemble Scotch and is often served in a highball. Canadian whiskeys often contain a high percentage of corn.

The two stylistic differences are Bourbon and Rye whiskey. Bourbon is aged in a new oak barrel, creating a sweet and smooth drink. Rye is made from at least 51% rye and tends to have a spicier flavor than bourbon. Both are produced in America.

Which Are Some Of The Best Brands In Whiskey?

Some of the best whiskey brands are some of the most commonly drunk varieties. Due to the fact that many varieties of whiskey do not have to follow production rules, there are so many different products it is hard to get a grip on your favorite.

Jameson Irish Whiskey is a very common Irish variety that is absolutely delicious. It sits on the middle shelf in terms of price, but won’t disappoint when drunk straight or on the rocks. There are more expensive, more sought-after brands, but this is one you can get almost anywhere.

Laphroaig is another relatively wide-reaching Scotch. It is, however, at a completely different price point, being much more expensive. It is easily found on our whiskey online store if it is not found at your local bar.

The Bulleit whiskey brand is another of the great whiskey brands that you can get on our online liquor store. They have arguably the best rye on the market, alongside their flagship, famous bourbon.

A new brand that has bulldozed its way into the conversation with incredible whiskey products is Suntory. They have a range of incredible whiskeys, ranging from mid-shelf to incredibly high shelf in terms of quality and price.

What Is The Difference Between Whiskey And Whisky? 

Though it might just look like a simple spelling mistake, there is actually a difference between the two spellings. In the modern-day, whisky is used for Scottish whisky, and whiskey is used for Irish whiskey. You might think this is another US/Canadian/British/Australian spelling disagreement, but it is not.

We have examined the differences between Scotch and Irish whiskey above, but there is also this spelling differential. Irish whiskey tends to be a little bit less smooth than scotch. Without being aged, it is a little harsher on the nose and stronger on the palate.

Scotch whisky is a little bit smoother, with a similar strength, especially when drunk neat as it is recommended.

Whether you're searching for a new favorite or a special gift, our carefully curated collection makes it easy to find exactly what you're looking for. With a simple online shopping experience and reliable delivery, Country Wine & Spirits ensures you get your whiskey quickly and hassle-free, right to your door. Discover your next great bottle today.