The Many Types of Whiskey and How to Enjoy Them

There are many different types of whiskey, but thankfully, we're here to help you sort through them all! In this blog post, we'll be discussing the major types of whiskey, including rye, scotch, bourbon, Japanese, Tennessee, Canadian, and Irish. By the end of this post, you'll know all there is to know about whiskey...at least the basics, anyway. Let's get started!

Rye Whiskey

Rye whiskey is made with at least 51% rye grain. It's a popular type of whiskey in the United States and Canada. Rye whiskey has a strong flavor with spicy notes. It's often used in cocktails or enjoyed neat. Ryes are commonly used in Manhattans and the Old Fashions. Popular brands include Bulleit Rye and Knob Creek.

Scotch Whiskey

Scotch whiskey is made in Scotland (fun fact: the Scots spell it "whisky" without the "e"). It's made with malted barley and must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. Scotch whisky is typically smoky and full-bodied. It's often enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Common brands of scotch include Johnnie Walker and Glenlivet.

Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon whiskey is a type of American whiskey that's made with at least 51% corn. Bourbon must be aged in brand new oak barrels. It gets its characteristic caramel color from the charring of the barrels. Bourbon has a sweeter flavor than other types of whiskey and is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Popular brands of bourbon include Jim Beam and Maker's Mark.

Japanese Whiskey

Japanese whiskey is modelled after Scottish whisky but with a few twists. Japanese whiskey must be distilled in Japan and made from Japanese ingredients. The most common type of Japanese whiskey is called "single malt," which is made entirely from malted barley. Japanese whiskies are known for their smoothness and subtlety. They can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Some popular brands of Japanese whiskey include Suntory and Nikka.

Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee whiskey is made from corn, rye, and wheat grain (in other words, it's a pretty much a bourbon). There's one key difference: it's filtered through sugar maple charcoal before being put into barrels for aging. This step gives Tennessee whiskey its unique flavor profile which includes notes of vanilla and caramel. It can be enjoyed neat or mixed in cocktails. Jack Daniel's is the most famous brand of Tennessee whiskey.

Canadian Whiskey

Canadian whiskey is made from a blend of grains including wheat, rye, corn, and barley. It must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. Canadian whiskies are known for their smoothness and versatility. They can be enjoyed neat or in cocktails. Crown Royal, Seagram’s, and Canadian Club are all examples of well known Canadian whiskies. 

Irish Whiskey

Irish whiskey is made exclusively in Ireland (surprise!) from a mash of malted barley, green unmalted barley, and either oats or rye grain (or both). Irish whiskeys must be aged in wooden casks for at least three years before they can be sold as such. They are typically light-bodied with notes of vanilla and honey. They can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Bushmills ,Tullamore D.E.W. ,and Redbreast are all examples single pot still Irish whiskies while Jameson, Powers, and Kilbeggan are all examples of blended Irish whiskies.

There you have it! There are many different types of whiskey to choose from. No matter what your preference may be, there's sure to be a type of whiskey that suits your taste buds perfectly. Now that you know the differences, you can order with confidence the next time you're out at a bar or restaurant. So grab a glass and enjoy!

Cheers!