Whisky & Whiskey (1.097)

Who invented Whisky / Whiskey?

The original origins are disputed between Scotland and Ireland. For this reason, these countries insist on using different spellings of Whisky or Whiskey to distinguish themselves from one another. It is established that the golden spirit conquered the rest of the world in the 17th century from both Ireland AND Scotland. The term Whisky was first mentioned in 1636, but Whisky had already been distilled regionally in both countries for many years by that time. Christian monks brought the knowledge of distillation to the Celts in the 5th century, who further developed the pot still process in copper stills over the centuries.

What distinguishes Whiskey from Whisky?

Whether Whisky is spelled with or without "e" depends on the country of origin. In the USA and Ireland, the spelling "Whiskey" is standard. In Scotland and the rest of the world, the spelling Whisky is used. A small mnemonic helps with the distinction. Countries that have a dominant "e" in their name produce Whiskey. Example: United States, Ireland. Conversely: Scotland, Canada, Japan/Nippon. Each Whiskey / Whisky is categorized according to the types of grains used, as well as different production methods and places of origin. Irish Whiskey comes only from Ireland; Scotch comes only from Scotland. Regional brands like Highland Whisky, Speyside Whisky, and Islay Whisky are protected.

Whiskey or Whisky according to production and aging

Single Malt, Single Grain, Blended Malt, and Blended Grain are the main terms for Scottish and Irish varieties. The quality and character of a high-quality finished Whisky or Whiskey is determined by the care taken in processing, the choice of distillation method, the raw materials used, and the duration of aging. It also matters whether distillates from different distilleries (Vatted) are blended or come from a single distillery (Straight). Blended Whisky can consist of up to 50 base varieties from different distilleries, while Single Malt comes from only one distillery. Particularly high-quality, limited and very long-aged varieties come from only one cask.

Ingredients of Whisky and Whiskey

Whisky is distilled exclusively from malted grains. The distillate then matures for a minimum of three years in wooden barrels. For all types of Scotch Whisky, malted barley forms the basis. In the USA, however, in addition to barley, rye and wheat, mainly corn is used. Ireland uses oats instead of corn. American Whiskey is usually stronger than long-aged mild Scotch or Irish Whiskey. Thailand distills Whisky from rice, but this variant could not establish itself in the global market. The flavor is influenced by the type of wood (usually oak), smoky and roasted aromas, the previous use of the barrel, and the microclimate of the warehouse.

Whiskey or Whisky according to grain type

• Barley, Rye, Corn, Wheat, Oats, very rarely Rice
• Malt Whisky: made only from malted barley, Single Malt = only from one distillery using the pot still process
• Grain Whisky: made from malted and unmalted barley, wheat, and corn, cost-effective using the column still process
• Blended Whisky: a blend of different whisky types (mostly grain) to achieve consistent quality
• Pot Still Whiskey: Irish malt whiskey made traditionally, which may contain unmalted barley and oats
• Bourbon Whiskey: American whiskey made from at least 51% corn, quick maturation due to shorter aging time
• Rye Whiskey: American whiskey with at least 51% rye content
• Corn Whiskey: inexpensive corn whiskey made from at least 79% corn

Whisky is sold worldwide

Traditionally distilled and aged Scotch Whisky and Irish Whiskey belong to the world’s best whisky types, which have been widely copied since globalization. Colonizers and emigrants brought the recipe and know-how for the popular spirit to the "brave new world." This refers to the North American continent. Due to differing geographical conditions, the production process was adapted through patented distillation methods (Column Still) to regional conditions. The most impressive result is American Bourbon, which developed a special character and has its own brand of origin with Kentucky and Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey.

Good Whisky also from Europe and Asia

The English also tried their hand at whisky production but still prefer genuine Scotch due to shorter supply routes. This was followed by Europe, Australia, and Asia. India, as a former British colony, developed its own variant and is now one of the strongest sales countries for inexpensive blended whisky. Japan, on the other hand, copied the production process of Scotch whisky down to the smallest detail. The quality of Japanese whiskies can now compete with the best Scottish whisky varieties. Even New Zealand and Australian whisky have found enthusiasts beyond their own borders.

Can Germans produce whisky?

Distilleries in German-speaking countries produce small, but fine margins for regional lovers and whisky collectors. For this purpose, primarily imported base distillates are processed further. In Switzerland, for example, the production of spirits from staple foods (grains, potatoes) was legally prohibited until 1999. Whisky and vodka were introduced. In the meantime, our neighbors have caught up. Thus, Switzerland is the newest production country for whisky. However, connoisseurs swear by the traditional varieties from Ireland, Scotland, the USA, and the newcomer Japan.

Buy the best Whisky at VINELLO

If you want to buy good Whiskey or Whisky online, Vinello is the right address. In addition to first-class whisky varieties, you can order other exquisite spirits and, of course, high-quality wines from Europe and South Africa in our online shop. Enjoy an inexpensive American blended whiskey neat, on the rocks, or in a mixed drink. Japanese whisky is an excellent digestif after a good meal. Long-aged Scottish whisky and Irish whiskey are best enjoyed neat to stylishly end an eventful day in the evening alone or with friends. All these different whiskeys can be conveniently ordered online at Vinello.