Whisky

Whisky is a strong alcoholic beverage produced by distilling fermented grain (barley, corn, rye or wheat) and maturing it in oak barrels. It is particularly valued for its deep tradition of production and rich history.

The flavour profile of whisky varies according to the variety, the country of origin, the type of grain and the ageing method.  Whiskies are divided into 'malt' (barley) and 'grain' (any other grain) whiskies according to the raw material used for production. The method of production distinguishes between 'single malt' whiskies (whiskies made from barley by a specific distillery), 'blended malt' whiskies (whiskies made from barley by different distilleries), 'blended' whiskies (whiskies made from different distilleries and different grains), 'cask strength' or 'barrel proof' whiskies (whiskies which are rare, not diluted with water) and 'single cask' or 'single barrel' whiskies (whiskies which are aged in a specific, marked barrel).

Whiskies are generally classified according to their place of origin as: Scotch, made in Scotland, usually from barley and matured for at least 3 years, Scottish whiskies are divided into 'single malt' and 'blended' whiskies and are often smoky; Irish Whiskey, made in Ireland, usually triple-distilled, and therefore with a particularly smooth flavour; American - produced in the USA, bourbons are made from corn (at least 51%, matured in new, charred oak barrels, which makes them sweeter and milder), and rye whiskey ('rye') is made from rye (hotter, with peppery notes); and Canadian - produced in Canada, from a variety of different grain blends. However, whisky is produced all over the world and Lithuanian whisky is also produced.

Whisky production starts with the fermentation of grain, which produces alcohol. The drink is then distilled and matured in oak casks, which give the drink its colour, aroma and flavour. Some whiskies are kept in casks of other beverages (Port, Madeira, fortified wines, Sherry, etc.) before bottling to extract additional flavours and aromas. Whisky can be drunk neat, on the rocks and in cocktails such as 'Old Fashioned', 'Whiskey Sour', 'Manhattan', 'Mint Julep'.  Whisky drinkers appreciate the depth of whisky flavour, the tradition and history of whisky production, which is why whisky is often seen as a sign of luxury and exclusivity, and is often collected.