It’s Whiskey Time!
From barley to bourbon and malt to Tennessee, whiskey has been around for centuries! But when was it first made? How did the process begin? How did whiskey became the nectar of the “spirits” gods?
The earliest crafted whiskey dates all the way back to the 15th century. Even though we can trace the beginnings of this spirit around Ireland and Scotland, it is the people of Ireland that are revered for honing in on the process of making whiskey as we know it today.
The unique technique of using charred oak barrel casks to age the whisky helped create its distinctive flavor. This method was then taken over to Scotland, where it has become a staple of Scotch whisky. The malt whisky makers in Scotland, were among the first to explore the amazing flavour and depth of whiskey. They used the same principles of distillation and aging as the Irish, but with barley as the grain of choice.
Making Whiskey Today
Whiskey still has many of the same production processes today. The grain is mashed with water, yeast is added to the mash which creates a fermentable liquid. This liquid is then distilled several times which makes it stronger in alcohol and is aged in wood casks for specific period of time. After the whisky has reached it’s desired age, the whisky is ready to drink!
The variety of whiskey produced today is tremendous. The variations in geography, distillation, and aging techniques mean that whisky has a wide array of flavors, aromas, and styles. There are varieties of whiskey from all different parts of the world, from Japan to the United States and even Scotland.
Taste the Difference
Whether it’s a single malt or a blended whiskey, each has its own distinct flavor. A single malt whiskey is made from one single malt and only one type of grain. It is made only from malted barley and the flavors are enhanced by the type of cask in which it is aged. Blended whiskies typically combine several malt and grain whiskeys to create a unique flavor.
Other expressions of whiskey, like bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, are all made with mixtures of grains. The key to these types of whiskey is the use of corn which gives them sweeter notes. The types of barrels used can also add flavor and complexity, lending even more distinction to whiskey.
Making History
Whiskey has become an iconic part of many cultures around the world and a staple of social gatherings. From its ancient origins in the 15th century to the vast array of whiskies available today, every sip of a good whisky has all the makings of a memorable experience.
Whether it comes from the beloved beaches of Ireland or the misty moors of Scotland, it’s easy to appreciate the unique flavor and complexity behind a great glass of whiskey. As demand for whisky rises, expect the creativity of distillers to continue to evolve and surprise. It’s no wonder why whiskey has been around for so long.
