It can be overwhelming if you are just starting out in the world of whisky. There is an abundance of options, and it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this guide, we will look at the different types of whisky, how to find the right whisky for your palate, and what factors you should consider when making a purchase. So whether you’re a newbie or an experienced connoisseur, this guide is for you!
Types of Whisky
Whisky is made from grains such as barley, rye or wheat and often aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 3 years.
The type of grain used determines the flavor and aroma of the whisky. Generally speaking, there are five types of whisky: malt, grain, rye, bourbon, and pot still. However, these can have sub-categories such as blended, single malt and Scotch.
Single malt Scotch whiskies are made from 100% malted barley and distilled in pot stills. They have a complex flavor profile with notes of smokey peat and sweet honey. Blended Scotch whiskies are made by blending several single malts together with grain whiskies.
This creates a more balanced flavor profile than single malt whiskies. Bourbon whiskey is made from at least 51% corn mash which gives it a sweet caramel flavor with hints of woody spice.
Blended Irish whiskeys are typically smooth and mellow due to the high proportion of grain whiskey used in their production process. Canadian whiskies are typically lighter in body than other types of whisky but still offer complex layers of flavor thanks to their aging process in oak barrels.
These distinctions can be difficult to understand at first, so don’t worry too much about it.
Finding Your Whisky Style
When trying to figure out what type of whisky suits your palate best it’s important to remember that everyone has different tastes so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Start by tasting a few different styles side-by-side so you can compare them; this will help you identify which flavors you prefer or dislike most strongly.
Some people prefer full-bodied smoky whiskies while others go for light floral flavors. It all comes down to personal preference! If possible, ask your local bottle shop for recommendations based on your preferences too, they will likely have some great suggestions!
Factors To Consider When Buying Whisky
When buying any kind of alcohol it’s important to consider quality as well as price; cheap doesn’t always mean good value for money!
Do some research into distilleries and brands before making your purchase; read reviews online or ask friends for advice on what they think about particular bottles before buying them yourself.
Also bear in mind that age does not always equal quality; some young whiskies may be just as good (or better!) than older ones so don’t be afraid to try something new!
Conclusion
To sum up our guide on choosing the right whisky, it’s all about experimenting until you find something that fits your taste buds perfectly! Don’t be afraid to try something new; read reviews online or ask friends for advice before making any big decisions when it comes to buying alcohol.
From single malts and bourbons through to blends and even Canadian options, there really is something out there for everyone so happy hunting! Good luck finding your perfect pour!