
Most of the high-end alcoholic beverages that are available to you today taste and look similar. Scotch and whisky are some of the most popular alcoholic beverages with amazingly smooth flavors and high quality amber tones. But what differences exist between them?
What is whisky?
Whiskey is a distilled spirit which is manufactured from highly fermented grains and aged in wooden barrels. Whiskey is a broader category, and there are various subcategories under it. There is rye, bourbon, Japanese whiskey, Irish whiskey, and Scotch. The grains which are often used in the manufacture of whiskey are wheat, corn, barley, and rye. In some instances, certain grains may be combined to make a whisky, and this is what industry experts refer to as a “mash bill.” Every grain that is used in the process of making whisky imparts a certain kind of taste to the flavor characteristics.
Once it’s been distilled, whisky is more often aged inside wooden barrels. Specifically, oak barrels that have been charred on the inside are the most preferred option. Barrel aging is highly responsible for the overall character, as well as the flavor of the whisky. The contact between the charred wooden barrel and the distillate causes the darkening of the whisky. This is what gives the whisky an amber color. This also adds vanilla and caramel flavors to the whisky.
What is Scotch?
Scotch is a whisky, but one that takes a specific style. Scotch is Scottish, so it can be defined as any whisky that is produced in Scotland. Scotch is quite broad and there are many regional variations which can be attributed to local traditions. Also, there are legal restrictions in the producing areas, and these factors combine to ensure the variance in flavors that are available. Some scotches are briny, while others are sweeter. Also, there are a few choices that can be described as more savory.
But one main difference with American whiskeys is that Scotch whisky is more often made from malted barley that has been soaked in water until it has partially germinated before being dried. Since the germination is stopped in time, it helps to produce a unique flavor that gives Scotch whisky a highly distinct aroma. This is what separates it from rye and bourbon whiskies.
A Scotch is distinguished by the characteristics that make it a Scotch
There are strict legal requirements which distillers should adhere to before calling their whiskey Scotch. These laws were created many years ago, and were intended to ensure that the right quality, and reputation is maintained. For instance, the whisky should be fermented, distilled and also aged in Scotland. The ingredients should be grains, water, yeast and caramel coloring. The whiskey should be aged for at least three years in oak barrels, among other requirements.
These days, development in internet technologies allows you to order whiskey at the comfort of your home. Shop whiskey online and pay securely, then have it delivered straight to your home. There is a huge variety of alcoholic beverages to choose from the world’s popular distillers.