American Whiskey: Embracing Tradition in Every Sip
In America, bourbon whiskey reigns supreme, defined by its mash bill of at least 51% corn and aging in new charred oak barrels. Tennessee whiskey, with its added filtration through charcoal, adds a distinctive touch to the American whiskey landscape. Craftsmanship and quality are ensured through rigorous regulations overseen by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
Irish Whiskey: A Journey Through Ireland’s Rich Heritage
Irish whiskey, renowned for its smoothness and complexity, is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and adherence to strict standards enforced by the Irish Whiskey Association (IWA). From the traditional pot still expressions to the elegant blends, Irish whiskey offers a journey through Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
Scotch Whisky: Scotland’s National Treasure
Scotch whisky, hailed as Scotland’s national treasure, encompasses a diverse range of styles, from the boldness of single malts to the harmony of blends. Governed by the Scotch Whisky Regulations, Scotch whisky production is steeped in centuries-old traditions and overseen by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).
Japanese Whisky: Precision and Elegance in Every Pour
Japanese whisky, revered for its precision and elegance, showcases Japan’s commitment to excellence and innovation. From the purity of single malts to the artistry of blends, Japanese whisky reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail upheld by the Japan Spirits and Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA).
Canadian Whisky: Blending Tradition with Versatility
Canadian whisky, known for its smoothness and versatility, offers a blend of tradition and innovation. Governed by standards set forth by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Canadian whisky boasts a wide array of flavors and styles, from the complexity of blends to the richness of single malts.
In conclusion, whiskey transcends borders and cultures, uniting enthusiasts in a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, tradition, and quality. Whether sipping on a glass of bourbon in Kentucky, a dram of Scotch in Scotland, or a pour of Japanese whisky in Tokyo, each experience offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of whiskey traditions around the globe.
American whiskey
American whiskey is whiskey (a distilled beverage produced from a fermented mash of cereal grain) produced in the United States. American whiskeys made from mashes with at least 51% of their named grains include bourbon whiskey, rye whiskey, rye malt whiskey, malt whiskey, wheat whiskey, Tennessee whiskey, and corn whiskey.
American Whiskey Types:
- Rye whiskey, made from mash that consists of at least 51% rye
- Rye malt whiskey, made from mash that consists of at least 51% malted rye
- Malt whiskey, made from mash that consists of at least 51% malted barley
- Wheat whiskey, made from mash that consists of at least 51% wheat
- Bourbon whiskey, made from mash that consists of at least 51% corn (maize)
- Corn whiskey, made from mash that consists of at least 80% corn
Bourbon
Bourbon (/bɜːrbən/) is a type of barrel-aged American whiskey made primarily from corn. Bourbon sold in the U.S. must be produced in the country from at least 51% corn and stored in a new container of charred oak. Bourbon must:
- Produced in the U.S. and its Territories (Puerto Rico), as well as the District of Columbia
- Made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn
- Aged in new, charred oak containers
- Distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80% alcohol by volume)
- Entered into the container for aging at no more than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol by volume)
- Bottled (like other whiskeys) at 80 proof or more (40% alcohol by volume)
Bourbon has no minimum specified duration for its aging period. Products aged for as little as three months are sold as bourbon. The exception is straight bourbon, which has a minimum aging requirement of two years. In addition, any bourbon aged less than four years must include an age statement on its label.
Japanese Whiskey
Japanese whisky is a style of whisky developed and produced in Japan. By 2024, products labeled as “Japanese whisky” will conform to new regulations. Japanese whisky must be fermented, distilled, aged and bottled in Japan, use some portion of malted grain in its mash, and use water sourced from Japan.
Canadian Whiskey
Canadian whisky is a type of whisky produced in Canada. Most Canadian whiskies are blended multi-grain liquors containing a large percentage of corn spirits, and are typically lighter and smoother than other whisky styles.
Canadian whisky must “be mashed, distilled and aged in Canada”, “be aged in small wood vessels for not less than three years”, “contain not less than 40 per cent alcohol by volume” and “may contain caramel and flavouring”.