From its origins in the United Kingdom to its status as one of the hottest commodities in the U.S, Whisky has proven itself to be one of the most versatile and enjoyable alcoholic beverages available today.
Unfortunately, with thousands of different varieties, it can be hard to know where to start, especially if you’re new to the spirit.
To make your selection process more accessible, we’ve put together this list of the different types of whisky currently on the market.
The following is a list of the top ten types of whisky you need to try. In no particular order, they are:
1. Irish Single Grain
If you’re looking for a light and fruity whisky, Irish single grain is a great option. This is one of the different types of whisky made from a single grain (usually corn) and is distilled in column stills.
Meanwhile, the resulting spirit is aged in oak barrels for at least three years. Irish single grain whiskies are typically triple-distilled, which gives them a smooth, clean flavor.
2. Irish Single Pot Still
It is a type of whisky that is made using a pot still. The whiskey is made from a mash of malted and unmalted barley, as well as other grains. The result is a smooth, flavorful whiskey perfect for sipping on its own or enjoying cocktails.
3. Irish Single Malt
Irish single malt whisky is also on the list of different types of whisky that is made in Ireland. It is made from 100% malted barley and is distilled in pot stills.
In addition, Irish single malt whisky has a characteristic smoothness and lightness that makes it unique among other types of whisky.
The flavor profile of Irish single malt whisky is typically fruity, with notes of citrus, honey, and vanilla. Irish single malt whisky is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
4. Highland Scotch
Highland Scotch is a type of whisky from the Highlands of Scotland. It is typically made with peat-smoked barley and is known for its distinct, smoky flavor.
Highland Scotch is often used in blends but can also be enjoyed independently. Some of the most popular Highland Scotches include Glenfiddich, Macallan, and Laphroaig.
5. Lowland Scotch
Lowland Scotch is one of the different types of whisky that is distilled in the Lowland region of Scotland. This region is home to some of the oldest whisky distilleries in the world, and the Lowland style is characterized by its light and delicate flavor.
So, if you’re looking for a smooth and easy-drinking whisky, Lowland Scotch is a great choice. Here are the best Lowlands Scotches to try:
- Auchentoshan 12 Year Old
- Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old
- Glendronach 12 Year Old
- Kinclaith 40 Year Old
- Ladyburn 1974
- Littlemill 30 Year Old
6. Islay
There are many different types of whisky, but one that you need to try is Islay. This type of whisky is made on the island of Islay, off the coast of Scotland.
It is known for its smoky flavor, which comes from the peat used to smoke the barley. If you’re a fan of smoky whisky, then you’ll love Islay.
Here are different types of Islay whisky that you should try:
- Ardbeg 10 Year Old
- Bowmore 12 Year Old
- Bruichladdich 16 Year Old
- Bunnahabhain 18-Year Old
- Caol Ila 12 Year Old
7. Speyside
Speyside whiskies are some of the most popular in the world. The region is home to many famous distilleries, such as The Macallan and Glenfiddich.
Speyside whiskies are typically sweet and fruity, with notes of honey and citrus. If you’re looking for a delicious whisky to try, be sure to seek out a Speyside!
8. Bourbon
Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is made from corn. It is one of the most popular types of whiskey in the United States. Bourbon has a robust and distinct flavor that many people enjoy. It is often used in mixed drinks and cocktails.
9. Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee whiskey is a type of whisky that is made in the state of Tennessee. It is made from a mash of at least 51% corn and is aged in new charred oak barrels. Tennessee whiskey has a smooth, mellow flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel. It is an excellent choice for sipping neat or on the rocks.
10. Rye
Rye whisky is made from at least 51% rye and is typically spicier than other types. It’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter night or mixing into a cocktail. Therefore, if you’re looking for a unique whisky experience, give rye a try. You won’t be disappointed.
11. American Single Malt
American single malt whisky is a type of whisky that is produced in the United States. This type of whisky is made from 100% malted barley and is usually distilled in small batches.
American single malt whisky has a unique flavor profile that is often described as being fruity, floral, and slightly sweet. If you are a fan of Scotch whisky, then you will want to give American single malt whisky a try.
12. Canadian
Canadian whisky is a type of whisky that is produced in Canada. The whisky is made from a blend of different grains, including wheat, corn, and rye. The flavor of Canadian whisky is typically light and sweet, with notes of fruit and spice.
In addition, Canadian whisky is often used in mixed drinks, such as the classic Caesar cocktail. Some of the most popular brands of Canadian whisky include Crown Royal and Canadian Club.
So, If you’re looking to try a new type of whisky, Canadian whisky is a great option. What are you waiting for? Please pick up a Crown Royal or Canadian Club bottle today and try it!
13. Japanese
Japanese whisky is a type of whisky that is distilled in Japan. The first Japanese whisky distillery was founded in 1934, and since then, the industry has grown exponentially. Today, there are many different types of whisky in Japan, each with its unique flavor profile. Here are ten of the best
14. Blended Whiskey
Blended whiskey is a type of whisky that is made by blending different types of whiskies. This can be done to create a specific flavor profile or to create a more consistent product.
Blended whiskey is usually made with a mixture of grain and malt whiskies, and the proportion of each type of whisky used can vary. Some standard blended whiskies are Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, and Crown Royal.
15. Scotch Whisky
Many consider Scotch to be the best among the different types of whisky, from malted barley, which is made in Scotland. There are four main categories of Scotch whisky: single malt, single grain, blended malt, and blended grain. Each type has its distinct flavor profile.
16. Single Cask Bottlings
A single cask bottling is a whisky that has been bottled from a single cask, meaning that all the whisky in the bottle comes from that one. This differs from most commercial whiskies, which are usually a blend of multiple barrels.
Single cask bottlings can be hard to find, but they’re worth seeking because they offer a unique flavor you can’t get from a blended whisky.
