Whiskey is one of the most consumed alcoholic beverages and is enjoyed by people all over the world thanks to its flavours which change depending on the variety. These spirits are distilled and prepared from fermented grain mash. Whiskey is usually aged in wooden casks and has to be composed of at least 40 percent ABV (alcohol by volume).
The term whiskey is broad and it includes various types of in it. It could be made from different varieties of grains such as barley, wheat, rye, corn, and sorghum. Grains are put through a heating process with water and then are fermented, this process is usually called "mash" by the whiskey producers.
So, now you know what whiskey is, let's discuss the different varieties of whiskey that you can try whenever you find yourself in a bar.
Irish Whiskey
This variety of whiskey is known for its mild and a little fruity flavour when compared to the other varieties of whiskey. As many people find Scotch whiskey is sharp and brooding, Irish whiskey is super smooth and is perfect for someone who doesn't like very overpowering whiskeys.
Irish whiskey also has notes of caramel and oak. You can enjoy Irish whiskey on its own without really any mixer while also being used in popular drinks such as Irish Sour, Irish Mule and Irish Coffee.
Scotch Whiskey
One of the popular varieties of whiskey and it is made in six different regions in Scotland. It is sharper and bolder than Irish whiskey and doesn't have as much fruity and floral notes.
Scotch whiskey has malted barley in it and has smoky notes which is its signature flavour. To enjoy Scotch whiskey, you don't need any mixers just like Irish whiskey to enjoy the rustic flavour of Scotch whiskey. It is also used to make cocktails like Rob Roy, Pickleback and Rusty Nail.
Bourbon Whiskey
The Americans' love for bourbon is no secret, its sweet flavour is something to die for. Bourbon is made from a minimum of 51 percent of corn and is aged in oak barrels. Apart from that, bourbon must be aged for at least two years and contain no additives except water.
It has a distinct caramel flavour and a lovely sweet taste. You can enjoy it on its own or by making cocktails like Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour and Manhattan.
Japanese Whiskey
The Japanese take their whiskey very seriously. It is a popular whiskey known for its high quality and standards. Its flavour is comparable to Scotch whiskey.
Japanese whiskey features a classic smokey flavour but is super smooth and goes down really nicely. Although comparable in flavour, think of Japanese whiskey as a mild version of Scotch whiskey. It is used to make Red Akuma, Tokyo Sidecar and The Black Ship cocktails.
Canadian Whiskey
Hailing from Canada, this whiskey has to be aged and distilled for at least three years. Canadian whiskeys are blended with various grains such as rye, wheat, corn and barley. It is a lighter and smoother whiskey that many people enjoy.
It also has notes of caramel and vanilla, overall having a slightly sweet flavour. You can enjoy Canadian whiskey on its own and you can also make cocktails like Black Whiskey Sour, Canadian Maple Old Fashioned and Royal Flush.
Tennessee Whiskey
Another American whiskey. Although its production is similar to bourbon, it is not entirely the same. Tennessee whiskey is known for its distinct flavour profile composing notes of vanilla, smoke and caramel.
Tennessee whiskey is also slightly less sweet than bourbon while also being smoother in comparison. It is also used to make cocktails like Tennessee Mule, Cherry Whiskey Smash and Sweet Tea Smash.
Indian Whiskey
A unique entry to the list which isn't as popular as compared to the other varieties. Indian whiskey is distinct and is made from distilled molasses which allows the whiskey to have a smooth and sweet flavour. Along with being sweet, it also has earthly notes. It is a must-try if you want to try something other than the conventional picks. You won't be disappointed. You can drink the whiskey as it is or by making cocktails like Whiskey Tonic or Tamarind Whiskey Sour.