Three famous whiskey styles, three different personalities. Here is what separates them in plain words, and how to enjoy each one.
Scotch: from smoky to floral
Made in Scotland, mostly from malted barley, and aged in oak for at least three years by law. Styles range from light and floral to rich and fruity to powerfully smoky, when the barley is dried over peat fire. Start with a gentle one, then explore.
Bourbon: sweet and warm
Made in the United States from at least 51 percent corn, and aged in new, charred oak barrels. That gives it flavors of vanilla, caramel and toasted wood. It is the base of the Old Fashioned.
Irish whiskey: soft and easy
Made in Ireland, and often triple-distilled, which tends to give a lighter, smoother, fruity character. A good first whiskey, and the heart of an Irish coffee.
How to taste
- Pour a small measure into a glass with a gentle curve.
- Smell first, with your mouth slightly open.
- Sip, and add a few drops of water if it feels hot. Water opens up the flavor.
- Ice is a personal choice: it chills and softens, but it hides aroma.
Where each one shines
Bourbon in an Old Fashioned, Scotch in a Rob Roy (Scotch, sweet vermouth and bitters), Irish whiskey in an Irish coffee. Or just sip each one neat with a square of dark chocolate.
As always, enjoy slowly and responsibly. Ask the Tipsy Juniper guide if you would like a bottle style to try first.
