Peat is a type of fuel that is made up of decomposed plant matter. It is commonly found in the bogs and moors of Scotland and is used as a fuel source for heating and cooking. However, it is also a key ingredient in the production of Scotch whisky, which is renowned for its unique smoky flavor.
How Is Peat Used?
When peat is used in the production of whisky, it is typically cut from the ground and dried out. The dried peat is then burned in kilns to create a smoky heat, which is used to dry out the malted barley that is used to make the whisky. The smoke from the burning peat infuses the barley with a unique flavor that is often described as “smoky” or “peaty”.
How Does Peat Affect Taste?
The amount of peat used in the production of whisky can vary depending on the desired flavor profile of the final product. Some distilleries may use a very small amount of peat, while others may use a significant amount to create a more robust smoky flavor.
The level of peatiness in a whisky is often measured in “parts per million” (ppm). This refers to the amount of phenols, which are a type of organic compound that is produced when the peat is burned. The higher the ppm, the more peaty the whisky will be.
Peat has a significant impact on the flavor of whisky. In addition to the smoky flavor, peat can also add notes of earthiness, spice, and even a hint of sweetness. However, it can also make the whisky taste more medicinal or even like band-aids, which some people find off-putting.
Where Is Peat Used?
The use of peat in whisky production is often associated with the Islay region of Scotland, which is known for producing some of the peatiest whiskies in the world. However, many other regions in Scotland also use peat in the production of their whiskies. Speyside whiskies are often known for their smooth and clean tastes but even some Speyside whiskies use peat.
Final Thoughts
Peat is a type of fuel made up of decomposed plant matter that is used in the production of whisky to create a unique smoky flavor.
The amount of peat used can vary and can have a significant impact on the final flavor of the whisky. If you’re a fan of smoky, peaty flavors, then exploring the world of peated whiskies is definitely worth your time.