Whiskey is an alcoholic beverage made from grains such as corn, rye, and barley. As one of the most popular drinks worldwide, it has a rich and storied history, with a variety of production processes. From American bourbons to Scottish malts and Irish blends, customers have a range of options as they explore and enjoy this fine spirit.
The history of whiskey can be traced back to the 1400s in Scotland and Ireland, where it was originally known as uisge beatha, the Gaelic term for ‘water of life’. Monks and alchemists used barley and other grains to make the spirit and it soon became a popular drink among the Scots and Irish. By the 18th century, whiskey had become established as one of the key drinks across Europe, with a variety of styles being made from different ingredients.
Whiskey is commonly made from a base of barley, which is fermented and distilled using traditional methods. Depending on the type of whiskey, other grains like corn or rye can be used as well. After distillation, the whiskey is typically aged in oak barrels for at least two years, though some types can take much longer than that. During the aging process, whiskey develops its unique flavors and aromas. Different types of barrels are also used, with whiskey from Kentucky being aged in charred oak barrels, while Japanese whiskey is often aged in Japanese mizunara oak.
When it comes to the taste of whiskey, it usually falls into two categories. The first is a sweet, mellow flavor, caused by the sugars present in the grains during the fermentation process, as well as the flavors imparted by the barrels. The second is a spicy, smoky flavor, which is the result of the charring of the barrels and the wood they’re made from. Tradition whiskey blends are often a mix of both sweet and smoky flavors.
In the United States, whiskey is often divided into two categories: bourbon and rye. Bourbon is made mainly from corn and aged in charred new oak barrels for at least two years. Rye whiskey is also aged in charred oak barrels, but must contain at least 51% rye in the mash. Whiskey from other countries also have distinct styles, such as the single-malt Scotch from Scotland or Japanese whisky, which often combines elements of the Scottish and American styles.
Whiskey has been linked to a variety of traditions and customs, from special blends being served to US presidents to special ‘toasts’ that are performed in honor of the drink. Today, the art of whiskey making continues to evolve, with a variety of production methods, brands, and styles being made. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, whiskey is a great way to enjoy a classic and timeless spirit.
Whiskey - How It Goes from Grain to Dinner Plate
Since time immemorial, whiskey has been a highly sought-after alcoholic beverage across the world. The warming and robust taste, paired with its often smoky aroma, have made it a powerful staple of social gatherings and meals. But what many people don’t know is the journey from grain to the delicious whiskey that ends up on the dinner plate. Understanding the production process can be both intriguing and enlightening. Read on to find out about the journey of whiskey from grain to plate.
The Raw Ingredients
The production of whiskey begins with the sourcing of the right raw materials. This traditionally includes barley, maize, or rye grains, which are sourced from local farmers. Depending on the distillery and region, these grains may vary. Once the right grains have been sourced, they are then malted. This means that the grains are soaked in water and then allowed to start germinating, or sprouting. The malting process also serves to start breaking down the grains’ starch, which is then converted into sugar.
Mashing
Once the grain is malted, it is then mashed. This step essentially involves crushing the grain and soaking it in hot water. This process helps break down the carbohydrates in the mash and further convert its starch into sugar. From the mashing process, a liquid known as wort is then obtained.
Fermentation
After the mashing process is complete, the wort goes through the fermentation process. This involves adding yeast to the wort and allowing it to turn the available sugars in it into alcohol. During this process, the mixture is diligently monitored and any bacteria present is eliminated.
Distillation
Ths distillation process is the heart of the whiskey-making process and involves the separation of alcohol from the wort. This is typically done in the presence of water vapour using a still. The first distillation process results in a low-proof liquid known as ‘low wines’.
The still is then fired up again and used to create a higher-proof spirit known as high wines. This liquid is then filtered through charcoal and stored in casks for maturation. This gives the whiskey its smooth flavour and rich aroma.
Maturation
Once the whiskey is filtered and stored in casks, it then goes through a maturation process. This involves storing the spirit in oak casks, which are often charred and kept in temperature-controlled warehouses. The maturation process lasts between three to five years, although certain whiskeys such as Scotch and Irish malt may take much longer. The duration of the maturation process plays a huge role in determining the depth of flavour and complexity of the whiskey.
Bottling
Once the whiskey is left to mature, it is then bottled and ready for consumption. In addition to the classic 65% ABV, certain distilleries also bottle cask strength whiskeys. These whiskeys are bottled at full proof and do not require any additional dilution.
Whiskey On The Dinner Plate
Whiskey is a popular beverage amongst food lovers who appreciate the smoky taste and robust aroma of the spirit. Whiskey-based cocktails and wines, such as whisky sours and whisky gingers are popular choices for enthusiastic drinkers. Meanwhile, food recipes incorporating whiskey are slowly gaining in popularity. Examples of these recipes include whiskey-glazed salmon and whiskey-laced steaks.
Whiskey has traditionally been served neat or on the rocks, but it can also be used in delicious food recipes. The subtle sweetness paired with the smokiness and woody notes will open a world of new flavours to any plate.
Conclusion
Whiskey has come a long way since its early days. From careful grain sourcing to the maturation process, each step serves to create the perfect spirit, ready to go from grain to plate. The end result is a smooth and complex beverage that is guaranteed to warm you up on a cold winter’s day.
Vitamin B1 | 0.01 mg | |
Vitamin B3 | 0.05 mg |
Iron | 0.02 mg |
Daily Value 0.018 g
|
Phosphorus | 0.003 grams |
Daily Value 1.25 g
|
Potassium | 0.001 grams |
Daily Value 4.7 g
|
Zinc | 0.02 mg |
Daily Value 0.011 g
|
Copper | 0.01 mg |
Daily Value 0.9 mg
|
Manganese | 0.01 mg |
Daily Value 0.0023 g
|
Total Sugars | 0.1 grams |
per 100g
|