When most people hear the word “whisky,” they automatically think of Scotch. And while Scotch and whisky are both types of whisky, there is a difference between the two. Scotch is made specifically in Scotland and must be made from malted barley. It also has to be distilled in Scotland and aged in oak casks for at least three years. In contrast, whisky can be made anywhere in the world and doesn’t have to contain malted barley. Whisky is also typically aged for a shorter amount of time than Scotch.
So what’s the difference in taste? Scotch is often considered to be smoother and more complex than other types of whisky. Many people also say that Scotch has a smoky flavor, which comes from the peat used to dry the barley.
Where Does Scotch Come From?
Scotch whisky is made all over Scotland, but the main regions are the Lowlands, Speyside, the Highlands, and Islay. There are many different types of Scotch whisky, which are typically named for the region or distillery where they’re from. Some of the most famous Scotch whiskies are Johnnie Walker (blended), Glenfiddich (single malt), and Laphroaig (Islay).
Bourbon is a type of whiskey produced solely in the United States. Bourbon, like Scotch, can only be manufactured in the United States. The main difference between Scotch and Bourbon is that Bourbon must have at least 51% corn mash, while Scotch can have any combination of malted barley, wheat, and other grains.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Scotch Whisky?
Whisky and Scotch are both types of liquor that are made from fermented grains. While they are both similar, there are some differences between the two. Scotch is made from malted barley, while whisky can be made from other grains such as corn, rye, or wheat. Scotch is also distilled in Scotland, while whisky can be made in other countries. Scotch is typically aged in oak casks for a minimum of three years, while whisky doesn’t have to be aged as long.
Polyphenols are plant-based antioxidants that have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Both Scotch and whisky have a lot of polyphenols. Whisky polyphenols have been shown to lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL), increase “good” cholesterol (HDL), and lower triglycerides, or fat, in your blood.
What Is The History Of Scotch Whisky?
While both Scotch and whiskey have a high alcohol content, there are notable variations between the two. Whisky can be created from any grain, but Scotch must be made from malted barley. Whisky can be aged for as little as one day, whereas Scotch must be aged in oak barrels for at least three. And liquor called “bourbon” must be prepared with at least 51 percent maize.
The Scots have been making whisky for centuries. Some evidence suggests that Christian missionary monks may have brought distilling to the country, but no one has ever been able to disprove the idea that farmers in the Highlands learned to make alcohol from extra barley.
In 1494, the Scottish Exchequer Rolls listed “eight bolls of malt to Friar John Cor to make aquavitae.” This is the first historical mention of whisky, according to Mr. J. Marshall Robb’s book “Scotch Whisky.” An historic Scottish unit of measurement, the boll, was equal to no more than six bushels.
The famous Ferintosh distillery was owned by Duncan Forbes of Culloden. It was first mentioned in the Acts of the Scottish Parliament in 1690.
According to a letter written by Sir Duncan Campbell of Glenorchy to the Earl of Mar in February 1622 (though it was never published), the king had dispatched officials to Glenorchy, and Campbell had made sure they were entertained as lavishly as the weather and geography would allow. It declared that they don’t care about wine or aquavit. There’s no doubt that the whisky used to make this “aquavite” was made in the area.
Today, there are many different types of scotch whisky, including single malt, malt whisky, grain whisky, and blended scotch. Blended Scotch is the most popular type, and it is made by blending different types of scotch whiskies together. Scotch whisky is enjoyed by people all over the world, and it continues to be one of the most popular spirits in the world.
What Is The Difference Between Scotch Whisky And Irish Whisky?
As mentioned, the main difference between Scotch whisky and Irish whisky is the distillation process. Scotch whisky is distilled twice, while Irish whisky is distilled three times. This extra distillation gives Irish whiskey a smoother finish, and some say it makes it the best in the world.
