What’s the difference and why it’s all good
With the huge resurgence of bourbon in recent years, spirits fans (like me) have started exploring the variety of palate pleasing offerings that fall under the label of whiskey. Only once I did so did I learn that not all whiskey is whisky and that each option on the market has a devoted and vocal fanbase.
Bourbon is America’s official spirit. To be called a bourbon, several qualifications have to be met: mash bill, aging, proof, and must be distilled and bottled in the United States. Bourbon is a whiskey.
Whiskey refers to barrel-aged grain spirits distilled in either the United States or Ireland. The plural is whiskeys. So, whether you’re enjoying a dram of Jameson or a shot of Jack (yeesh), you are imbibing in a whiskey. As you’ve likely guessed, the remainder of barrel-aged spirits (those coming from Scotland, Japan, and Canada) are whiskies; the plural of whisky.
Whether whiskey or whisky, you’re bound to find a bottle you enjoy.
Definitions aside, each spirit (by region) offers something unique to the aficionado. I am a bourbon and scotch man, though I enjoy Irish whiskey as well (particularly when accompanied by a pint of 90 Schilling ale).
Scotch whisky was my first love when it came to straight spirits. To this day I can’t fathom making a cocktail with a good scotch. Nope. Neat with a splash of water, thank you. Peet is a characteristic flavor component of scotch and the different regions of Scotland produce spirits of differing profiles. I’m a Highland fan myself with Dalwhinnie being my particular favorite.
Canadian and Japanese whisky have their own niches in the market. Canadian labels like Canadian Club and Crown Royal have been around forever and have their fans. The Japanese distilleries are comparatively new, but they have exploded onto the scene with profiles that appeal to bourbon and scotch lovers alike.
Now that you can tell whiskey from whisky, I encourage you to try offerings from the different categories listed above. You’ll find things you enjoy (or revile) about each. Just please, drink your scotch neat.
