Did you know that the global alcoholic beverage industry is valued at over $546 billion?
One of the most popular alcoholic drinks is whiskey. Not only does it have a rich taste but it also has a rich history. If you’re in the category of “whiskey for beginners,” don’t worry because everyone has to start somewhere.
Are you wondering how you can appreciate the drink even more? Keep reading to learn all about the popular drink with this whiskey 101 guide.
The Invention of Whiskey
The history of this amazing drink dates back more than a millennium ago. The two main whiskey-producing countries back then were Scotland and Ireland. Believe it or not, monks in that area invented whiskey because they didn’t have grapes available for wine-making.
Instead of grapes, they fermented grains and created the alcohol we all know and love. Scotch whisky became a staple of those countries for centuries, but it was until Americans arrived with their own distillation process that it started becoming a global phenomenon.
Whiskey hit a new level of popularity when Johnny Walker arrived on the scene and made a name for himself. He went from being a modest grocer to the owner of one of the most successful alcoholic beverages ever.
You might be wondering about the whiskey vs whisky spelling difference. Simply put, Ireland and the United States prefer spelling the drink with an “e” while the rest of the world often gets rid of it.
The Different Types of Whiskey
If you’re a whiskey fanatic in the making, then you’ll love learning that there are many different whiskey types out there for you to try.
The main grain types that can be used in the fermentation process include barley, corn, rye, sorghum, and wheat.
One of the most famous types of whiskey is Scotch. They almost always use malted barely because it’s the highest quality, although that translates into a higher cost for the consumer.
Irish whiskey is also popular among drinkers. Irish brands tend to use unmalted barley and age their whiskey for at least three years before bottling it up. Canadian whiskey also has a three-year minimum for aging except they used wooden barrels instead of copper pots.
To truly get the most out of your drink, it’s crucial to master the art of a whiskey tasting.
With this Whiskey 101 Guide, You’re an Expert
Now that you’ve learned all about this popular drink with our whiskey 101 guide, you can have a deeper appreciation for it. Your friends and family members will be impressed with your whiskey knowledge. If you pursue your passion, you can end up opening up your own whiskey bar.
Why stop at whiskey when you can learn about so many other drinks too? If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll be delighted to know that there’s plenty more where it came from. Browse our online magazine for some more healthy lifestyle tips!