Since the 16th century, whisky has been a staple in bars and taverns worldwide. Whether served in cocktails, with ice, or for cooking, whisky has a place in everybody’s hearts.
Although Ireland, Scotland, and the United States are the most prominent producers of whisky, they are not top on the list of highest consumers. Surprisingly, the French are the biggest consumers of whisky, consuming an average of 2.15 liters per year, followed by Uruguayans at 1.77 liters and Americans at 1.41 liters.
But what type of whisky are we drinking? Let us guide you through the different varieties.
Irish whiskey
Yes, you read that right – whiskey with an “e”! Surprisingly, Irish regulations require the use of “e” in the spelling of whiskey. This small difference sets it apart from its Scottish counterpart.
The Irish have been enjoying this drink since the 12th century, referring to it as “uisce beatha” or “water of life”. Brewed by monks, it was believed to be a spirit with healing powers.
Today, brands like Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore are world-renowned for their high-quality Irish whiskey. Interestingly, the first license to distill whiskey was granted to Bushmills in 1609, making it the oldest whiskey distillery in the world. Don’t miss out on trying this unique and flavorful drink next time you visit Temple Bar.
Did you know that...?
The earliest known documentation of whiskey consumption dates back to the year 1405. In this record, a clan chief's death was attributed to drinking too much "water of life" during Christmas celebrations.
Origin
Ireland
Cereal
Unmalted and malted barley blend
Aging time
3 years
Flavor
Fruity
Scotch Whisky
While the Irish may have invented whiskey, the Scots popularized it in the 16th century.
Scotch whisky’s distinct, smoky flavor comes from being dried with peat smoke. This flavor was so unique that when whiskey was exported to America, Irish distillers wanted to differentiate their product from their Scottish counterparts.
They even went as far as to add an “e” to their spelling of whiskey to avoid any association with the scotch they considered inferior.
Origin
Scotland
Cereal
Malted barley
Aging time
3 years
Flavor
Smoked
American whiskey or bourbon
Bourbon, America’s answer to whiskey, was created in Bourbon County, Kentucky. This was a result of American’s desire to create their own version of the popular drink.
During the 18th century, the United States faced a surplus of corn. To make use of this surplus, they had the idea of distilling it and making a drink similar to whiskey but with a more caramelized flavor.
Origin
United States
Cereal
Corn
Aging time
2 years
Flavor
Sweet
Differences
Origin
Cereal
Aging time
Flavor
Irish whiskey
Ireland
Unmalted and malted barley blend
3 years
Fruity
Scotch Whisky
Scotland
Malted barley
3 year
Smoked
American Whiskey
United States
Corn
2 years
Sweet
