Differences Between Scotch, Whiskey, and Bourbon

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Understanding Whiskey

Whiskey encompasses a broad category, including bourbon and scotch. All bourbons and scotches are whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon or scotch.

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Distillation Process

Whiskey, according to Whiskey Advocate, is distilled from grains. Unlike other distilled spirits like brandy, which comes from grapes, whiskey makers use grains like malted barley.

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Varieties of Whiskey

Bourbon, scotch, and rye are well-known types of whiskey. Additionally, there's white whiskey, which is unaged.

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Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee whiskey, made in Tennessee, is a type of corn whiskey. Despite being made from corn, which is a grain, it qualifies as whiskey. 

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Irish Whiskey

Distilled in Ireland, Irish whiskey is aged for three years and often triple-distilled, resulting in a smooth, sweet taste. Enjoy it in various Irish whiskey cocktails.

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Canadian Whisky

Canadian whisky, though primarily corn-based, is sometimes called rye whisky due to its inclusion of rye in the mash. 

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Rye Whiskey

American rye whiskey, distilled with at least 51% rye grain, offers a unique flavor profile. Aged in new American charred oak barrels, it's a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the old-fashioned.

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Whiskey vs Whisky

The spelling difference whiskey with an "e" in the United States and Ireland, whisky without the "e" in Canada and Scotland stems from geographic distinctions in naming conventions.