How Many Types Of Whiskies Are Out There? Here’s A Guide To The Many Styles
Whisky — that deeply flavoured grain liquor, has many patrons across the world. Through centuries of distillation and maturation practices, masters of whisky-making have continued to refine the ways in which this spirit can be distilled and aged, leading to a lot of different varieties of whisky.
Different regions produce different kinds of whiskies with subtle nuances which are indicative of the terroir, the province and the geography of their origins. What’s more, each of these whiskies also bears a distinct flavour so that no two whisky styles can be used interchangeably during tastings or in cocktails.
In fact, each whisky variation brings a little something of its own to the different blends it is used to prepare, such that an old fashioned made using 30 ml of rye whisky will definitely taste different from the same cocktail made using 30 ml of blended Scotch. Evidently, for an amateur it becomes significant to examine how each of these whisky variations differs in style, taste and texture to be able to tell one from the other, and to apply each of these in distinct ways while mixing drinks.
Here’s a bird's-eye view of these different styles of whisky making, especially for an amateur venturing into the realm of this exquisite spirit:
Scotch Whisky
One of the oldest whiskies that continues to be rooted in traditional distillation methods, the Scottish whisky is primarily made from malted barley or grain and is aged for a minimum of three years. Some of the styles of Scottish whisky include:
— single malt: made from 100 percent malted barley and distilled at a single distillery
— blended Scotch: a mix of malt and grain whiskies which lend the spirit silky texture and balance
— peated Scotch: smoky and earthy whiskies often hailing from regions like Islay
Irish Whisky
This is a variation known for its light and slightly sweet profile. One of the reasons it stands out is because this is a triple-distilled spirit – a process which imbues a fine, velvety texture into the drink.
The whisky is traditionally made from malted and unmalted barley blends and aged for at least three years. It is an excellent addition to cocktails like Irish coffee and works well at tastings.
Bourbon
A very popular American whisky, bourbon is made using at least 51 percent corn. This rich, full-bodied whisky is aged in new charred oak barrels and is complete with notes of vanilla, caramel and spice. Bourbon is an exquisite addition to cocktails such that 30 ml of this spirit can be used to blend drinks like the old fashioned, mint julep and more.
Also Read: Why Are Some Whiskies Called Scotch? Here’s The History Behind The Name
Rye Whisky
Well-known in American and Canadian provinces, the rye whisky stands out for its spicy, robust and aromatic flavours that lend the spirit much sharpness and complexity. Made from at least 51 percent rye, it is often complete with peppery, herbal and fruity notes and is an excellent base for building several cocktails like the Manhattan or the sazerac.
Japanese Whisky
Largely inspired by Scottish distillation methods, Japanese whisky is nonetheless crafted with its own brand of utmost precision and elegance. Often grain-forward, this is a spirit which embodies soft and balanced notes that are laced with subtle smoky and floral nuances. One of the reasons Japanese whisky has garnered popularity is because of the blending mastery and the attention to detail involved in its production.
Canadian Whisky
Blended grain whiskies often including corn and rye come together to produce what is broadly recognised as Canadian whisky. Clear and light with a soft character, the spirit embodies a mild sweetness and spice and makes for an interesting base in cocktails which are well-suited to this subtle flavour.
World Whiskies
Beyond these known whisky types, a few others are emerging slowly as excellent blends that carry an essence of the terroir from where they originate. One such whisky is the Indian grain whisky which is robust, spiced and often laced with fruity notes.
Another variation is Australian whisky, often aged in wine or sherry casks which imbue it with rather complex flavours. So too, Taiwanese whisky is another up-and-coming style, categorised by rich and fragrant notes, inspired by Japanese whisky-making techniques.
Each of these whisky styles offers something distinct to the connoisseur and amateur alike. This makes for interesting tasting sessions that become a space for a patron to explore their own flavour preferences.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
