For millennia, man has been obsessed with the nectar of the Gods; otherwise known as alcohol. Deeply rooted in cultures and celebrations around the globe, this unique substance is as ingrained into our history as religion or retail and is as popular now as it ever has been.
While there are many different forms of alcohol, few hold the same level of class and sophistication as whisky. If you are new to the art of whisky drinking or are a seasoned pro looking to affirm your belief that whisky is at the peak of the potion pyramid, this article will help you find the information you are looking for.
Why Whisky Is Better Than Beer
Before we delve into the many reasons why whisky can be considered superior to beer, we must first explore what whisky really is.
This article from Healthline teaches us that whisky is a distilled alcoholic drink made from fermented grain mashes. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? However, years of secret recipes, relentless reviewing and rigorous testing have ensured that this timeless tipple is anything but simple. Now, alcohol can have a bad rap, this we all know, but what makes this divine drink better than its old opponent? Health, history and taste to name a few.
Whisky Is Healthier Than Beer
Now more than ever, the public is always on the lookout for the healthiest option for every concoction they consume. With this in mind, it is no secret that the bubbly beverage renowned for beer bellies and binges is not the optimum option for the health-conscious.
Full to the brim with empty calories, beer can be the cause of many health issues thanks to its carbohydrate content and lower alcohol content which leads a lot of users to overindulge to achieve their desired effects, not to mention its long-term effect on the heart and liver.
Whisky, on the other hand, is packed full of plant-based antioxidants that encourage an astounding array of health benefits such as lower levels of fat in the blood, less bad cholesterol, and even a reduced risk of heart disease.
Coupled with the fact it contains next to no carbs, fat, or calories and is usually enjoyed in much smaller quantities than beer, it is kind to both your waistline and your baseline.
History of Whisky
Travel back in time to the British Isles, and you will find the origins of whisky. While many nations had already discovered the process of distillation earlier in history, travelling monks are believed to have brought this valuable knowledge over from Europe and into Ireland and Scotland where it began to take its shape as the whisky we know and love today.
The word whisky has its roots in a Gaelic term that translates as ‘the water of life’ and this alone shows us how important this luscious liquor was to the monks that made it.
From this point onwards, recipes have been passed down through bloodlines being perfected as they go to ensure the purest, most potent peg available.
Types of Whisky
While we have acknowledged whisky’s heritage, the product we enjoy today has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon that is seen as the pinnacle of proofed products.
Sure, we can agree that beer has a cult following of its own, however, no beer drinker gets to enjoy the level of variety and character that whisky has to offer. While Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are still seen as the top players at the table; many countries including the USA and Japan are hugely popular exporters of their own unique versions of whisky.
Add to the mix that there are single malt, grain and even blended whiskies available, the options are endless.
How to Enjoy Whisky
From the selection of the bottle to the first smell and taste, whisky boasts enough attributes to touch all of your senses. While beer can only really be enjoyed as it comes (with the rather restrictive choice of a can or a glass), whisky can be enjoyed in a wide array of ways.
Whether you prefer your whisky neat, on the rocks, paired with your favourite mixer, or even as an imperative cog in a classic cocktail, you can guarantee you will enjoy every single sip.
Summary
If you are not ending this article with a glass of whisky in your hand, I don’t believe you! With so many reasons to be loved (and none to be ignored) whisky will always have a special and secure place in the heart of alcohol aficionados and amateurs alike for centuries to come.
With the information above stored in your cellar, you will never again wonder which is better, whisky or beer.
FAQ
How do beginners drink whisky?
When first entering the world of whisky you should start slowly. Beginners should choose a subtler whisky with a sweeter flavour to encourage a smooth taste experience and reduce the intensity of the burn. Beginners can then branch out and develop their personal palate as they explore this extensive drink and the many different variations and varieties available.
Is whisky good for sleep?
Whisky is a wonderful nightcap for those looking to see off the stresses of the day with a delightful dram. Alcohol is renowned for reducing anxiety, this coupled with its sedative effects can help consumers to reach a state of calm and doziness before bed.
Add in the fact that whisky is enjoyed in smaller quantities than beer or wine, there is no need to worry about bloating or night time trips to the toilet.
Is whisky good for you?
In very large quantities, no alcohol can be considered good for you. However, when enjoyed responsibly whisky can be enjoyed in the knowledge it has positive effects on your health. Packed with antioxidants, naturally low in sugar and shown to give the heart a helping hand, whisky is often argued to be the healthiest of all alcohols.