Introduction to Whisky: 101

Hey steemers. I figured this would provide real good insight and overview into the differences in whiskies and regions. I'm going to give you an overview of what I have read and learned from my own experiences and the experiences of others.

What is Whisky?

Whisky is fermented using grain mash varieties; malted barley, rye, maize, and wheat. Whisky is typically distilled in oak barrels varieties of virgin (has not yet contained a liquid), charred (lit on fire on the inside) , etc. certain distillers have a signature style which include ageing their liquid gold in multiple casks that have sometimes been used for liquids such as sherry or bourbon to absorb their flavour and impart unique qualities.

Casks can be aged from a range of years giving credence to the notion that age is everything when it comes to liquor. Recently there have been waves of No Age Statement (NAS) whiskies surging through the market as there is a shortage of aged whiskies. These NAS whiskies have been said to eclipse flavour of some aged whiskies

Macallan NAS Series

Macallan Fine Oak Age Series

Countries that produce Whisky

• Scotland: Single Malt, Blended, Grain
• Ireland: Single Malt, Blended, Grain
• USA: Tennessee, Rye, Bourbon
• Japan: Single Malt, Blended, Grain

Some newer players to the market, collectively known as new world whiskies:

• Australia, India, Taiwan

Among these countries there are hundreds of distilleries and millions of whisky produced. This has created a culture of whisky drinkers of all ages and of all types. It is increasingly difficult to say one whisky is better than another because everyone's tastes differ so much. I try my hardest to provide impartial unbiased reviews and express FLAVOUR and SMELLS as much as possible to let people know what I can taste and smell to see if they will like it or not.

Here's a look at my personal liquor cabinet to close things off.

Cheers steemers!
Paulie V