When it comes to whiskey, there are many different types. However, these different types can be confusing for anyone who isn’t an aficionado of this spirit. Even though each type is different and unique, there are similarities between them. Most notably, all whiskey is made from fermented grain mash that has been distilled. The differences come in the secondary processing of the grain mash. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or this is your first time reading about the spirit, we think you’ll find this guide helpful! Here we will discuss three of the most popular variations of whiskey: Scotch, Bourbon, and Irish Whisky (or Whisky). While each one is unique and special in its way, they all share some commonalities that make them stand apart from other spirits. Let’s take a closer look at each one…
Scotch Whisky
Scotch whisky is made from malted barley (unmalted barley can also be used), which is mashed, fermented, and then distilled. The liquid is then put into oak barrels where it ages for a minimum of three years. While Scotch can be made anywhere in the UK, it is most often associated with Scotland. Scotch is the most popular and well-known type of whiskey in the world – and for good reason! It’s rich, malty, smooth, and has a smoky flavor. The flavor and taste vary slightly depending on where the whisky was made. The Highlands and the Islands produce lighter, more floral whiskies while the Lowlands yield a more full-bodied taste.
Bourbon Whisky
Bourbon is another common type of whiskey and shares many similarities with Scotch. It is also made from fermented grain mash, which is then distilled. The mash for Bourbon, however, is often a mixture of corn, barley, and rye. Although it can be made anywhere, it is most often associated with the U.S. Like Scotch, Bourbon is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Most often, it is a sweet, strong spirit with a hint of caramel. The taste can vary from brand to brand, but it is typically sweeter and less smoky than Scotch.
The color of this whiskey varies from amber to dark brown. This color variation is due to the fact that the aging process allows the whiskey to “oxidize,” which causes the liquid to absorb a reddish color. Unlike Scotch, the aging process for Bourbon is constant: It is never taken out of the barrel. As the liquid ages, it evaporates and leaves the caramel-colored liquid behind.
Irish Whisky (Or simply, “Whisky”)
This is another common type of whiskey that can be found around the world. Unlike Scotch and Bourbon, Irish whisky is not aged in oak barrels. It is often distilled three times (although some brands only distill it twice). Irish whisky is made from both malted and unmalted barley mash and is most often associated with Northern Ireland. Like Scotch, Irish whisky is often lighter and more floral than its Bourbon counterpart. Unlike Scotch and Bourbon, it is rarely blended with other spirits.
The Difference Between Scotch, Bourbon, and Irish Whisk(e)y
As we’ve discussed, Scotch, Bourbon, and Irish whisky are all types of whiskey. Beyond that, they aren’t too similar. The main difference between Scotch and Bourbon is their source of mash. Scotch is made from malted barley, while Bourbon is made from a mixture of corn, barley, and rye. Irish whisky is a completely different beast: It isn’t aged in oak barrels, and it is distilled twice (as opposed to three times for Scotch and Bourbon). Beyond the mash source and aging process, there are also other differences in taste. Scotch has a smokier flavor than Bourbon, and Irish whisky is lighter and less sweet than its counterparts.
What is the difference between whisky and whiskey?
In Scotland they spell it whisky, in Ireland, they spell it whiskey. The biggest difference between the two words is the spelling, however, there are other differences as well.
Whisky is made in Scotland and Ireland but whiskey is made only in Ireland. The spelling of the word whisky comes from the Gaelic language that was spoken for thousands of years in these countries before English was introduced to Scotland and Ireland by the British.
The Gaelic language has many different dialects which can make things difficult for people who don’t know Scottish or Irish Gaelic well enough to understand what people are saying when they speak it so instead of using their native tongue when speaking to each other they switched to English instead.
Using a common language is beneficial since it makes communication easier, but it created some confusion about how to spell certain words from their native language, as the majority of them were illiterate and unable to read or write in English. The Irish and Scottish Gaelic speakers could comprehend the words since they were simply other dialects. Even though this didn’t trouble those who spoke Irish or Scottish Gaelic, people who understood English and could read and write it were perplexed by the spelling of words such as ‘whisky’ with an ‘e’ at the end rather than a ‘y’.
Conclusion
Whiskey is one of the most popular spirits around the world. With so many different types of whiskey, it can be difficult to pick one out of the lineup. Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the differences between Scotch, Bourbon, and Irish whisky. These spirits are all delicious on their own, but they also taste great in cocktails. No matter which one you choose, you can be certain that it will be a smooth, flavorful experience.