Australia is home to close to 40 distilleries. This is testimony to show how many whiskey-lovers there are. It is not just the natives who buy from these spots. Australian whiskey is popular among tourists too. When you buy whiskey, you seldom think about the process behind it. There are vivid histories and processes behind every product.
The Evolution of Whiskey
The word means ‘water of life’ in its original sense and is traced to Gaelic origins. It was initially used as medicine due to its anesthetic properties. It was used for internal consumption as well as a topical applicant for sterilization and antibiotic reasons.
The Process
The distilling techniques originated in Ireland and Scotland, infamous for their distilleries. It was developed by monks circa 1100. The wine was a rare commodity then and difficult to procure. So they used barley beer and made it into a liquor by distilling it. This is what came to be known as whiskey. However, the production was limited. Only apothecaries and monasteries were permitted to produce whiskey till the 15th century.
People could not buy whiskey until later on. It finally found an audience among Scottish and Irish immigrants who brought it into North America. Its popularity and fame then spread around the world.
Although there are different styles of whiskey, they are made using similar methods. The process is identical to that of beer-making with a combination of corn, barley, rye, or wheat. In some cases, malt is incorporated. These substances are mixed with yeast and water and allowed to ferment. This process aids the conversion of starch to sugars, which then become alcohol. The liquid is then passed through a pot or a column that continuously heats it and converts it into concentrated vapor. This vapor is distilled, and the ned-product is a high-proof clear liquid.
Whiskey is aged in barrels for a few years minimum. The flavors of the barrel penetrate the whiskey imparting oak or wood flavor. It has other properties that darken the liquid and slightly mellow the intense flavors. After this process, it is then combined with additional barrels. The liquor is further made into different styles or diluted. Bottled whiskey usually has about 40% alcohol in it.
The Taste of Whiskey
Different styles and brands of whiskey have a characteristic flavor. Some have woody notes others are grainy with a hint of vanilla. Fruits, caramel, and spice are also different flavors in a whiskey.
Types of Whiskey
- Single Malt Whiskey: It refers to the type produced at a single source using a single variety of malted grain. Scotch, Japanese and Irish whiskeys have famous single-malts.
- Blended Whiskey: It refers to a blend of different whiskey. It comprises aged whiskey, that is sourced from various grains. Canadian blended whiskeys are popular among this type.
- Scotch Whiskey: It is made of single malt and processed from malted barley, and combines blended whiskey. The malt imparts its signature flavor. It is dried over a peat-fuelled fire that gives it a smoky flavor. Even within Scotland, whiskey from different regions is produced and taste differently.
- Bourbon: This is a type that is made only in America and has special characteristic features. It is to be using at least 51% corn. It includes other rigid processes, like aging them in a charred oak barrel.
Conclusion
Getting to know the story behind a product makes it more alluring. It represents a continuum of history and connects us to our ancestors. The next time you take a sip of whiskey, remember the journey it has been on before reaching you.
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