Over five centuries old, whisky is known for its rich cultural history and diverse taste profiles. However, whisky is more than just a drink; it is a celebrated symbol of craftsmanship and traditions. Let’s dive in and demystify this cherished spirit, exploring about the spirit, its origins, production, and the styles.
What is Whisky?
Whisky (also spelled whiskey for the most part in Ireland and America), is a distilled alcohol created by fermenting grain mash, such as barley, corn, rye, wheat and other cereals. The use of grains isn’t a matter of whatever is cheap or convenient – rather, they all contribute their own unique flavour to the final type of whisky produced. The process from farm to bottle involves five key steps: malting, mashing, fermenting, distilling, then ageing.
Origins
The origins of whisky making are shrouded in mystery and hotly debated. Some say ancient civilisations of Mesopotamia fermented and distilled grain mash to create a precursor to modern whisky. However, most well-documented accounts point to Scotland as the birthplace of whisky, with records of distillation dating back to the 15th century.
Some tales attribute its invention to monks who distilled fermented grains as elixirs for medical ailments. Others tell stories of smugglers and hidden distilleries, evading authorities and crafting clandestine spirits in the Scottish Highlands.
Production
It all begins with selecting the grains (barley, corn, rye, wheat, and other cereals). Each grain imparts its unique character to the resulting form of whisky. For example, barley often gives rise to a malty and peaty flavour, while corn helps bourbon taste sweet.
In the malting stage, the selected grains, typically barley, are soaked in water. During this process, the grain's starches turn into fermented sugars. These germinated grains then dry out in kilns to halt and preserve the sugars.
The malted grains are ground down (called grist) and mixed with hot water, creating a mash. Any remaining starches convert to sugars. The resulting wort (sugary liquid) is then separated from the solids.
Inside fermentation vessels, yeast is added to the wort so it can begin fermenting. Yeast converts the sugars into alcohol. This creates a low-alcohol liquid called ‘wash’ or ‘beer’.
Although for the type of whisky it varies, the ‘wash’ is distilled in copper pot stills or column stills to separate the alcohol from the remaining impurities. Distillation concentrates the alcohol content, producing a higher-proof spirit called ‘new make spirit’ or ‘white dog’. The first distillation process is not usually enough. It may go through the distillation another once or twice depending on the level of alcohol concentration you are looking for.
Next comes the crucial step of ageing, during which the spirit rests in wooden barrels, typically oak, for a minimum period, which varies by country and type of whisky. During this process, the whisky interacts with the wood, developing complex flavour and mellowing harsh edges – all this is dependent on the type of barrel, whether it’s new or reused, and the surrounding climate.
After aging for the required period, the whisky is usually diluted with water to reach the desired ABV. It is then filtered, and sometimes caramel coloring is added for appearance. The whisky is now ready to be bottled!
Styles
Is Scotch Whisky different to Bourbon? What about single malt whisky or white whiskey? There seems to be a continual mystery shrouding ‘what is whisky’ through the ages. Put simply, bourbon is whiskey but not all whiskey is bourbon. The same goes for other styles of whisky. There are vast and diverse styles that have emerged from practices across countries all over the globe.
Scotch whisky (from Scotland) is revered for its peaty, smoky flavours. Irish whiskey is smoother and lighter, typically triple distilled for a more delicate experience on the palate. American whiskey, thanks to its typical use of corn and the barrels is ages in, is bold and sweet.
Conclusion
Whisky, transcendent of time and borders, brings cultures together across the globe. Whisky’s allure lies not only in its diverse flavours but also in the stories behind the barrels. Whether you prefer yours from Australia or Ireland, Scotland or Japan, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of global traditions and artistry that have gone into crafting this spirited elixir. Cheers!