Whiskey, sometimes spelled whisky, is a complex and beloved spirit that has captivated the palates and imaginations of aficionados for centuries. Originating from the Gaelic “uisge beatha” or “water of life,” whiskey comes with a rich history and a wide array of types. From the legendary Scottish single malts to the bold bourbons of America, whiskey’s diversity is part of what makes it so fascinating to explore. This guide is your map to the world of whiskey, helping you appreciate the nuances of each type and know how to savor them properly.

Demystifying Whiskey Types

Whiskey is more than just a spirit; it’s a category under which several distinct types fall, each with its own production process and unique flavor profile. These are the main varieties you should be familiar with:

Scotch Whisky

The Classic Elegance of Scotland

Scotch whisky is almost synonymous with sophistication. Made in Scotland, Scotch is typically distilled twice (though sometimes thrice) and aged for a minimum of three years. There are two primary types:

• Single Malt: Produced at a single distillery using malted barley. They are often considered the epitome of Scotch whisky, celebrated for their rich and varied flavors.
• Blended Scotch: A mix of one or more single malts with grain whisky. These blends offer consistency and a nuanced flavor profile.

Irish Whiskey

Smooth and Approachable

Irish whiskey is known for its smooth, light body, and triple distillation. It’s often the go-to whiskey for those just starting to explore the spirit. Common types include:

• Single Malt: Made from 100% malted barley and distilled at a single distillery.
• Single Pot Still: Also known as pure pot still, this unique Irish method includes a mix of malted and unmalted barley and results in a spicier taste than the single malt.
• Blended: Combines different malt and grain whiskies, providing a balanced and consistent profile.

American Whiskey

A Range of Flavors Across the US

American whiskeys come in various forms, the most notable being Tennessee whiskey and bourbon:

• Bourbon: Must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. Known for its sweetness and high alcohol content.
• Tennessee Whiskey: Similar to bourbon, but made using an extra charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process, giving it a smoother flavor.
• Rye Whiskey: Made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% rye, offering a spicier and drier taste compared to bourbon.

Canadian Whisky

Light and Versatile

Often noted for its light and smooth profile, Canadian whisky can be made from a blend of grains and typically includes a higher percentage of rye.

Japanese Whisky

New World, Old Tradition

Japanese whisky has surged in popularity and is known for its balance and finesse. It draws inspiration from Scotch and often utilizes similar processes, resulting in some stunning expressions.

Other Whisk(e)ys

There are many other whiskies from around the globe, such as Indian whisky, Australian whisky, and more recently, African whiskies. Each brings a unique cultural twist and flavor palette to the table.

How to Savor Whiskey

Appreciating whiskey is not just about drinking it; it’s about engaging all your senses to savor the experience fully.

Tasting

The Nose Knows

Pour a measure into a tulip-shaped glass and take note of the color. Swirl it around to prime the glass with the spirit’s aroma, then take in the scent. Notes can range from the smoky-peaty tones of a Scotch to the caramel sweetness of a bourbon. Then, take a small sip, letting it coat your tongue to discern the full breadth of the flavor.

Pairing

Match Made in Heaven

Whiskey pairing doesn’t have to be complex. Dark chocolates, cheeses like cheddar and blue, and even a simple glass of water can enhance the tasting experience. The key is to find flavors that either contrast or complement the whiskey’s profile.

Cocktails

Versatility in a Glass

While many purists prefer to drink whiskey neat or with a splash of water, there’s a whole world of whiskey cocktails awaiting exploration. Classic drinks like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan highlight the spirit’s rich notes and are always a hit.

Understanding Whiskey Lingo

To truly appreciate whiskey, it’s helpful to understand the language used to describe it. Here are a few terms to get you started:

Mash Bill

This is the recipe of grains used in the production of the whiskey. For example, a high-rye bourbon will have a higher percentage of rye in its mash bill.

Angel’s Share

The portion of whiskey that is lost to evaporation during aging in wooden barrels.

Peat

A major flavor component in many Scotch whiskies, peat is decomposed organic matter often used to dry malted barley, imparting a distinct smoky flavor.

Age Statement

The number on the label signifies the youngest whiskey in the bottle. The older the whiskey, the more complex and refined its flavors.

Where to Begin Your Whiskey Journey

If you’re just starting to appreciate whiskey, consider attending a tasting event at a local distillery or bar. It’s a great way to try different types and learn from experienced enthusiasts. Additionally, many whiskey brands offer virtual tastings, which provide an informative and entertaining way to explore new drams from the comfort of home.

The Takeaway

Whiskey is a spirit that rewards curiosity and exploration. With such a rich tapestry of types and flavors, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re sipping on a peaty Scotch beside a roaring fire or enjoying a smooth glass of bourbon with friends, each experience adds a chapter to your whiskey story. Cheers to your whiskey journey, and may it be as rich and varied as the spirit in your glass.

If you are a whiskey lover, you might have come across the term ‘whisky’ and wondered why some whiskeys are spelled differently. Whiskey and Whisky are two popular alcoholic drinks enjoyed worldwide, but their spelling can be a bit confusing. So why do some brands spell it differently, and is there really a difference between the two? In this blog post, we will explore the differences between whiskey and whisky and show you some of the best selections available at Payless Liquors.

The first thing to understand about whiskey and whisky is that the spelling depends on the origin of the drink. Whiskey is the spelling used for the drink made in America and Ireland, while ‘whisky’ is the spelling used for those made mainly in Scotland, Canada, Japan, and other parts of the world. Another significant difference is the distilling process, which can affect the flavor and texture of the drink. In the USA, for instance, bourbon is made from at least 51% corn mash and aged in charred oak barrels, while Irish whiskey is triple distilled and Scottish whiskies are usually double distilled, although some are triple distilled.

When it comes to taste, whiskey and whisky can offer different flavors and aromas. For example, while most Scottish whiskies have a distinctive smoky flavor with peat flavors, American bourbon is often sweeter with vanilla or caramel notes and a slightly different drink recipe. Irish whiskey is often milder and smoother, while Canadian whiskey often has a fruity aroma.

If you are looking for a great selection of whiskey and whisky, then Payless Liquors is the best place to start. They have everything from bourbon, single malt Scotch, Canadian, Irish whiskey, and Japanese whisky, to name a few. You can also choose from blends or single malts and compare the flavors and detect the differences between the two.

If you’re new to whiskey and whisky, you may want to start with a classic cocktail to help you explore the flavors. Some popular options include an Old fashioned, which is made from bourbon, bitters, a sugar cube, and an orange peel garnish. Another famous one is the Rob Roy, which is made from scotch, vermouth, and a dash of bitters.

In conclusion, the differences between whiskey and whisky are determined by the origin of the drink and the distilling process. While the spelling may seem like a minor detail, it can significantly affect the flavor profile of the drink. With the vast selection available at Payless Liquors, you can taste a range of different whiskeys and whiskies, including classics and new favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey expert or a newcomer to the world of spirits, Payless Liquors is the perfect place to explore the variety of flavor and distinction between these complex and flavorful beverages.

Whiskey has, of course, been around for years, but rye is seeing a new and exciting resurgence in the drink market. As a versatile grain, rye is used for vodka, beer, and whiskey. With distilleries across the country, both large and small, rye whiskey is a flavorful beverage that is gaining a whole new following.

Cask finishing is one way that all the many types of rye whiskeys separate from their competition, and the body of rye lends itself well to the process. Its clean finish is better suited to casks than bourbon’s heavier one.

While the United States has a long tradition and history of rye whiskey, its origins aren’t necessarily stateside. German immigrants brought the tradition with them in the mid-1600s while they were settling in modern-day Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. Germany had a rich history of rye whiskey production, even then.

We can credit the German immigrants with bringing the rye process to the United States. Still, we can also credit the Dutch with the industrialization of distilling, and they made a spirit very similar to rye whiskey. The Dutch had been making genever with rye for many years. Luckily, rye grew plentifully in America, thus solidifying rye’s usage in distillation.

Before Prohibition, rye was America’s dark spirit choice rather than bourbon. Because of Prohibition, many distilleries that produced rye closed and never reopened, and rye was notoriously difficult to find for several years.

As for rye whiskey, a serious resurgence has been going on for some 15 years after its production had previously died off in the 90s. We’re lucky today that so many people in the industry have taken rye whiskey on as a quest, and while innovation can be great, staying power is excellent too.

Bulleit Rye is one of the classics that Payless Liquors offers. With its smooth, crisp finish and notes of vanilla, spice, and honey throughout, this is a great sipper on the rocks, neat, or as the base spirit for a number of cocktails.

Rittenhouse is another rye whiskey offering. Long a beloved choice for bartenders, Rittenhouse has an herbal, sweet taste to start, then transitions quickly to roasty, dark flavors, such as oak and licorice. Perfect for a classic Old Fashioned or Manhattan, its flavor can handle nearly every kind of whiskey-based drink.

Did you know that Old Overholt is America’s oldest rye whiskey brand? In production since 1810, this rye whiskey is no spirit to turn your nose up to. They’re still capable of producing an excellent core rye that’s being aged for four years rather than the previous three. They also make some higher-octane distillations and offer an 11-year-aged rye as well. Old Overholt has a citrusy bouquet and sweet caramel and vanilla scents. A perfect cocktail or sipping rye.

Rye has a long and rich history in the United States. With over 200 years of production and enjoyment, it has a staying power worth noting. See our full list of Rye Whiskey offerings, and try a new Rye today.