In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, many will indulge in distilled alcohol whiskey. But some newcomers to brown liquor are not aware of the simple difference between “whiskey” and “whisky.”
Whiskey is one of the most enjoyed spirits in the world with successful corporate brands in Japan, Ireland, and America. The drink has been popular dating back centuries in medieval Europe and is a staple in most bars across the western world.
Prior to the late 19th century, the global convention was to spell whisky without an “e.” This included renowned Irish and American distillers, aligning with the prevalent spelling at the time.
A pivotal moment arose in 1860 with the passage of the Spirits Act during the Gladstone government — marking a transformative period in the history of whisky spelling.
Whiskey stands as a distinct category within the world of brown spirits, cherished worldwide, especially during the grand celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. The art of distillation involves fermenting grains and maturing them in wooden casks, crafting the essence of whiskey.
There are various types and styles of whisky, and the characteristics can vary based on factors such as the type of grain used, the distillation process, and the aging conditions. Common types of whisky include Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, Bourbon, and Rye whiskey.
For example, whiskey is representative of spirits that are produced mostly in Ireland and the United States from brands such as Jameson and Wild Turkey. In contrast, in Scotland and Canada, it is commonly spelled “whisky” without the “e.”
Fireball Cinnamon Whisky is a flavored whisky known for its distinctive cinnamon flavor. It is often categorized as a flavored or liqueur-style whisky due to the added flavorings.
Bourbon is American-made whiskey that has a 51% corn mash and must be aged in charred oak barrels. Whiskey, in general, can be distilled anywhere in the world and can be aged in a variety of barrels.
Individuals who enjoy their bourbon at a colder temperature may keep it in a wine fridge or cooler. The taste of the whiskey will likely not be affected nor will the whiskey expire over the course of any significant time due to the coldness.
“When it comes to American whiskey, Wiesel recommends the Bardstown Bourbon Company and its collaboration cask series,” said Todd Wiesel, co-founder and CEO of BAXUS, a digital marketplace for rare wines and spirits.
Wiesel also recommended Kinsale Spirits, an up-and-coming Irish distillery known for its single malts, barrel finishes, and flavor profiles not traditionally seen in Irish whiskies.
“For whisky,” Wiesel said, “I like to look for IBs (independent bottlers), or ‘indies’ as they are known in the industry.” He recommended brands like Gordon & Macphail, Single Cask Nation, and SMWS.
Wiesel told Fox News Digital that flavor and price are the two most important considerations in purchasing spirits. He recommended using online resources to understand what to look for or what to avoid when selecting whiskey or whisky.
In conclusion, whether you prefer whiskey or whisky, there are a variety of options to explore and enjoy. From American bourbon to Scottish whisky, the world of brown liquor offers a diverse range of flavors and characteristics for every palate to savor.
