Ever heard someone say, “I love Bourbon but don’t like whiskey”? That’s like saying you love pizza but hate cheese! Let’s clear up the confusion with some fun facts along the way.
Whisk(e)y: The Big Picture
Whisk(e)y is the overarching term for a spirit made from fermented grains and aged in wood. Whether it’s Scotch, Bourbon, or Irish whiskey, they all fall under this broad category. The only real debate? The spelling.
Whisky (No ‘E’) – Scotland, Japan, India & Australia
Scotch Whisky: Must be made in Scotland with 100% malted barley. But not all Scotch is smoky! Islay whiskies tend to be peaty, while Highland whiskies bring out rich caramel and fruit notes. Fun fact: Some Scotches age for decades, with bottles selling for over a million dollars!
Japanese Whisky: Inspired by Scotch but crafted with its own meticulous style. Some distilleries even mimic Scotland’s climate to perfect their flavors.
Whiskey (With an ‘E’) – Ireland & The U.S.
Bourbon: America’s sweetheart, made from at least 51% corn and aged in charred new oak barrels. While Kentucky is its home, Bourbon can be made anywhere in the U.S. Did you know? By law, Bourbon must be aged in brand-new barrels—giving old barrels a second life in aging rum, tequila, and even hot sauce!
Rye Whiskey: Bold and spicy, made with at least 51% rye. George Washington himself was a rye whiskey distiller!
Tennessee Whiskey: Like Bourbon but smoother, thanks to the charcoal-filtering Lincoln County Process. Jack Daniel’s is the most famous example.
Odd Ones Out: Some American brands, like Maker’s Mark and George Dickel, spell it “whisky” just to keep us on our toes.
Interesting Read
Fast Facts to Remember
- Whiskey vs. whisky? Just a spelling difference based on origin.
- Scotch whisky isn’t always smoky—each region has its own flavor profile.
- Bourbon IS whiskey—so saying you love Bourbon but hate whiskey makes zero sense!
- Japan’s whisky scene is booming—some bottles are even rarer than Scotch.
- The world’s oldest whiskey dates back to 1862, discovered in a hidden Irish cellar.
