What kind of whiskey is best to drink. Good whiskey: what are the criteria? Which whiskey is better to choose? Single malt whiskey - the crown of creations

Whiskey is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world, with dozens of varieties of this product available in every specialized store. How to choose a good whiskey in Russia? To do this, you will have to learn how to understand the labeling, get acquainted with the classification and taste characteristics of different types of whiskey. Then your choice will be competent and informed.

How does the type of whiskey affect its taste?

Produce whiskey from germinated barley and various grains. The best varieties are single malts with a mild and round taste. They are based on quality distillates created from pure, selected, carefully sorted and dried barley. An alternative since ancient times is whiskey made from grain spirits, which have a more oily and coarse taste.

For a long time, the popularity of these drinks was based only on low cost. Blended whiskey is a mixture of malt and grain spirits diluted with pure water. This composition allowed the distillers to maintain a mild taste and reduce the cost of production. As a result, these varieties account for 90% of all sales in world trade. Standing apart in the list of popular types of whiskey is American bourbon, created from distillates based on corn grains.

It is worth understanding the features of the production of malt whiskey, this will allow you to choose a good drink. The following varieties are produced:

• Single Malt - produced at the same distillery from spirits of different ages;
• Single Cask Malt - bottled from one barrel, characterized by a unique aroma and taste;
• Pure Malt - the technology involves a mixture of malt spirits from different distilleries, which minimizes the shortcomings of the products of one particular plant.

All information is reflected on the label, it remains only to pay attention to it.

Where is the best whiskey made?

The choice largely depends on the region in which the drink was created. Manufacturers from different countries carefully preserve their centuries-old traditions, even in cases where brands are sold to global concerns - they retain all the specifics of the brand, from the peculiarity of the shape of stills to drinking water from a certain source. In stores you can buy products from several countries.

Whiskey is produced by hundreds of distilleries in five major geographic regions. Beginners are better off tasting drinks from TLowlands, the plains located in the south of the country. They have a dry, soft and silky taste.

Prefer sweeter and ethereal varieties with fruity notes? Opt for whiskey from the Speyside Valley. Light and spicy drinks are produced in the Highlight mountain valleys, while Islay distillery products are characterized by a special strong aroma and taste, in which the smoke of the distilleries is combined with the salty sea.

Rich and brackish whiskeys are produced in the Campbeltown region. It is better to get acquainted with them last, when there is experience of use and certain preferences have formed.

good whisky almost all distilleries prepare on the emerald island, of which there are not so many left here. Unlike Scotland, barley is smoked not in peat, but in closed ovens. The obligatory triple distillation gives a special softness to the taste, as you can see by tasting Jameson whiskey.

The sweet, delicate taste of corn distillates favors beginner bourbons, which are easy to drink neat. The top seller is the Jack Daniel's blend, which contains 80% corn spirits.

In this Asian country, whiskey is very popular, and the Japanese, with their characteristic industriousness, have perfectly mastered the technology of producing the drink. There are many good brands that are reminiscent of the products of the Scottish Speyside distilleries. Fruity, smoky notes are a feature. Good products are offered by brands such as Hibiki, Yamazaki, Taketsuru, Yoichi.

In the production in this country, a mixture of cereals is used: rye, corn, wheat, barley. The lack of strict standards allows producers to dilute whiskey with sherry, bourbon and cognac, so products from this North American country are recommended for creating cocktails. The rye variety Rye is very popular.

Which whiskey to buy by origin? Start with classic Irish and Scottish brands like Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Lagavulin, Macallan, Glenlivet, Jameson, Glenfiddich. Of the American companies, Jack Daniel's, Jim Beam, Buffalo Trace are well-deservedly popular.

holding time

Noble characteristics of whiskey acquires after a long stay in oak barrels. The minimum aging period for distillates is 3 years, for bourbon 2 years is allowed. The characteristics of young varieties leave much to be desired, it is not surprising that most producers age whiskey for at least 5-10 years. In this category, you should look for a good option for a festive feast that will meet the most stringent requirements.

The age is indicated on the label, for blended whiskey this figure will mean that the youngest spirit has a given age. Other distillates may have a more serious age, giving the drink quality characteristics. The best option would be whiskey with an exposure of 12-18 years, at this age the spirits acquire roundness, are saturated with the aroma of oak, and honey notes appear. Buying such drinks, fans of hard alcohol will definitely not be disappointed.

Price

Price always matters, but good whiskey doesn't have to be the most expensive. Many popular brands are owned by global concerns that charge high advertising costs. The popularity of the brand, the presence of beautiful gift packaging affects the price. In the middle price range, you can find excellent specimens. This category is recommended for tasting.

Among connoisseurs of high-quality elite alcoholic beverages, whiskey is in special demand. It is made from germinated cereal seeds that go through a process of malting, fermentation and distillation. The drink is stored in barrels made of natural material for several years, after which it is bottled. The strength of whiskey must be at least forty degrees, and its color ranges from light yellow to dark brown. Not many people know how to choose the right whiskey. First you need to study how it happens.

Types of whiskey

You can classify a drink according to different criteria: starting from the country of origin and ending with the price. Choosing whiskey is based on several criteria. If we talk about the type of raw materials that are used in the production process, then the division is as follows.

1. Malt. This whiskey is made from barley.
   • Pure Malt. To obtain a drink, single malts from different distilleries are mixed. The most successful are the combinations of "Shieldaig" and "Ballantine's".
   • Single Cask Malt. This type is very rare. During the production process, it is not diluted with drinks from other barrels, so different batches of the same manufacturer may have a different taste. One of the most famous distilleries producing this whiskey is Tyrconnell.
   • single malt. This is a mixture of alcohols of different aging. The most common type of whiskey, the production of which takes place at one distillery. Famous manufacturers are Bowmore, Highland Park, Dalmore Sirius.
2. Grain. It is made from different cultures and is considered a low quality drink. It is very rare in its pure form, more often it is used in the production of blended varieties. A well-known brand is "Choice Old Cameron Brig".
3. Blended. It is the result of mixing the two previous varieties. Most of the whiskey consumed in the world is of this type. The best are those that have more malt alcohol in their composition. Some of the most famous brands are Chivas Regal, White Horse.

Depending on the region of production, the division is as follows:

1. Scottish. It has a smoky flavor, as its raw materials are dried on peat charcoal. On the label there are inscriptions "Whisky" or "Scotch". Some of the popular ones are Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Black Label.
2. Irish. The malt is dried in ovens and the drink is softer through triple distillation. On the bottle you can find the designation "Whiskey". The most famous are Jameson, Old Bushmills, St. Patrick.
3. Canadian. This whiskey is most often made from rye and is slightly stronger than the previous types. The label may be marked "RYE". An example of Canadian whiskey is Canadian Club Classic;
4. Japanese. In the production of this drink, rice, corn and millet are used. Whiskey aged in Japanese oak barrels is highly valued, it is less "smoky" and not as "peaty" as Scotch. Famous brands are considered - Nikka, Yamazaki, Suntory.
5. American (bourbon). The drink has a sweetish taste, the main crop in its production is corn. Barley and rye are often added. Grains are ground into flour and fermented with sugar and water. The drink is stored in charred barrels. World famous brands "Jim Beam" and "Jack Daniel's".

Which whiskey is better to choose

Haubaisell recommends that when choosing a drink, pay special attention to its aging. Years are not taken into account after bottling whiskey, so we mean the period during which the drink was in the barrel. When determining the aging of a drink (if it is the result of mixing several types), the age is determined by the maturation of the youngest spirit. The minimum term is 3 years, for bourbon 2 years are allowed. If the question arises, how to choose whiskey, focusing on exposure, then it should be 5-10 years, since the taste of too young varieties leaves much to be desired.

It is also worth remembering that expensive does not always mean better. The cost may include brand awareness, design or gift wrapping. It is advisable to compare prices in several stores, they may differ quite a bit, and if the difference is significant, these are most likely cheap fakes.

To determine exactly which whiskey to choose, howbuycell recommends tasting several options and, based on personal taste preferences, will stop at something specific.

The new year is coming soon, and with it the festive feast. I want to draw your attention to alcoholic drinks other than (brrrrr…..) vodka. Today I will introduce you to the 20 most popular brands of whiskey / in the USA. Remember that the word whiskey is masculine and don't say "good whiskey", but say "good whiskey".

Quite by chance, I caught the eye of the rating of alcohol interest in the United States for the past month. Let's take a look at this interest ranking according to sales data together. In this topic, I am not at all an expert, and I can be called an amateur with a big stretch, but I will give a list. I apologize in advance for possible inaccuracies, and please note them in the comments. So, the rating of American interest in whiskey / bourbon brands.

3 most popular brands

1. Jack Daniel's (USA)

2. Johnnie Walker (Scotch whiskey - scotch. Scotland). Budget good drink (for my rustic taste).

3. Jameson (Whiskey, Ireland). A very popular drink. In one village here I saw at the checkout a “bottle” of 5 liters, either for 5, or for 7 thousand.

With leaders, everything is clear. Surely you have tried at least one of these three. The rating of popularity among the public is not limited to the leaders. But, I emphasize that this does not mean that these varieties are the best whiskey, but only that the most popular. A good drink is not always the most massive. However, we continue.

Whiskey in the top ten

Fourth to tenth place:

4. Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve (Bourbon, USA). Really got me stumped. I had to turn to the internet. The history of the Van Winkle family in this business dates back to the 1800s. A feature of burwhiskeybon is the use of corn, wheat, and barley in the recipe instead of corn, rye, and barley. Well, you won't know until you try.

5. Crown Royal (Canadian Whiskey)

6. Jim Beam (Bourbon. USA). Well, this drink is familiar to everyone. A traditional drink for those who are afraid of flying.

7. Maker's Mark (Bourbon, USA)

8 Macallan (Scotland)

9. Buffalo Trace (Bourbon, USA). Another representative from Kentucky.

10. Lagavulin (whiskey. Scotland). Scotch single malt whisky.

The second twenty popular brands of whiskey / bourbon

11. Glenlivet (Single malt Scotch whiskey)

12. Woodford Reserve (Bourbon, USA)

13. Evan Williams (Bourbon, USA)

14. J&B (whiskey. Scotland)

15. Glenfiddich (whiskey. Scotland)

16. Wild Turkey (Bourbon. USA)

17. Knob Creek (Bourbon. USA. Produced by Jim Beam distilleries)

18. Balvenie distillery (whiskey, Scotland)

19. Chivas Regal (whiskey. Scotland)

20. Dewar's (whiskey. Scotland)

I will not be so categorical, but for those who are interested in brands of quality whiskey / bourbon, I recommend whiskeydaily.com. The history of the factories, the impressions of the tasting are told in an interesting and easy way. I’m talking about alcohol replicas and, in particular, Jack Daniels Old No.7 Tennessee, so I won’t return to this topic here. Especially since it has nothing to do with good whiskey.

That's all for now. Do not forget that excessive consumption is harmful to health. Good luck!

A little about tape in general

As you know from the previous post, Scotland is considered the birthplace of whiskey, which is called scotch there (that is, not only there, but everywhere) and every bottle of drink produced in this country of the Kingdom is labeled Whiskey Scotch.

There are several significant differences between original Scotch and whiskey produced elsewhere, which can only be called Whiskey or Bourbon.

There are several types of Scotch whiskey:

• Malt is 100% barley malt scotch.
• Single Malt is a single malt whiskey made at one distillery and bottled there.
• Single Cask Malt is a blend of multi-malts aged in one barrel.
• Pure Malt is a blend of several single malt whiskeys from different distilleries aged in a single cask.
• Blend - blended whiskey, combination different varieties malt and grain alcohols in various proportions.
• Grain is a whiskey made from pure wheat alcohol of very high quality. This is the most expensive brand of non-malt scotch.
• Single Grain - also a pure grain whiskey, lower in category.
• Grain Single Barrel - scotch only from a mixture of grain alcohols, aged in one barrel for at least 6 months.
• Pure Grain is a combination of several grain drinks produced by different distilleries.

We rarely find pure grain whisky. Most often - blend or single malt varieties. In total, 148 brands of Scottish scotch are now on the market.

The most famous brands of adhesive tape

If you ask someone who knows a little about whiskey what brand is the most famous, he will no doubt name Johnnie Walker. In Russian, the name sounds like Johnny Walker - this is the name of the founder of the distillery. The event happened in 1820. Now it is the best-selling brand in the world. There are 5 Johnnie Walker labels:

• The cheapest is Red Label. Its manufacturer positions it as an adhesive tape "for every day". It consists of 35 barley varieties, the basis is the Cardu brand, aged in sherry casks from 3 to 5 years.
  The cost of a bottle with us ranges from 1.8-2.0 thousand rubles per bottle of 0.7 liters. Further I will indicate just such a spill - for convenience. The first price - in online stores and wholesalers, the second - in retail trade. This is the number 1 whiskey in the world. 7.5 million 9 liter boxes are sold annually worldwide!

• Black Label is a great blend, aged over 12 years. It contains almost 40 single malt spirits. It has the softest, honey taste and a light smoky note in the aroma. The cost is 3.0-4.2 thousand rubles.

• Gold Label, or it is also called the Golden Label, has an exposure of at least 18 years and is made up of 15 of the most valuable barley and grain alcohols. The recipe was developed for the centenary of Johnny Walker & Sons. It is considered the most "honey and smoky" brand. Price - within 5-5.5 thousand rubles.

• Platinum Label is the newest product of the company. Born in 2011, blended by Jim Beveridge. Alcohols are infused for at least 18 years, the composition is kept secret. Connoisseurs say that the blend was created under the influence of the blend master's trip to India. And so Scotch has a very strong, spicy and at the same time, sweet taste with a traditional smoky aroma. Price - about 8 thousand rubles.

Among the luxury varieties of whiskey, the brand has been holding the championship for decades Chivas Regal- products of the Chivas Brothers distillery (founded in 1801).

The blend is 39-41% malt whiskey. Three types are available: Chivas Regal 12 Y.O. with 12 years of aging (price is about 3 thousand rubles per 0.7 l), with 18 years - Chivas Regal Gold Signature 18 Y.O. (6.5 thousand rubles) and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50 Y.O., created for the half-century anniversary of the Queen's coronation in 2003.

A special feature is colored bottles that imitate the play of precious stones on the royal crown. The price of an exclusive bottle is from 15 thousand rubles.

Whiskey Scotch Glenlivet, read as Glenlivet, is one of the best brands of Single Malt single malt whiskey. Date of birth - 1824. Aged from 12 to 25 years. Drying of malt is carried out with peat smoke, which is practically fresh in composition, extracted only in one place.

It has a fairly light golden color, honey flavor and a delicate smoky floral flair. It is aged in ex-bourbon barrels (one type is ex-sherry), and water has been taken from only one source for almost 200 years. Cost - from 4 thousand rubles. for a bottle of 12 years old up to 30-35 thousand - for 25 years of age.

Famous Grouse Scotland's national pride. Only there is wild partridge grouse, which is depicted on the label. Drink strength 43% alc. Consists of malt spirits from two distilleries. The best selling stamp in Scotland itself.

And at the same time, many houses have their own recipes for how to make Famewes Grouse. Connoisseurs note spices and orange in the taste, caramel in the aftertaste, and fruit (orange and cherry) and peat smoke in the aroma. The price is in the region of 2-2.5 thousand rubles.

Among the very famous and valuable brands, you should definitely mention:

• Ballantine's- third place in sales in the world. It has the title of "Impeccable Taste". Price from 1000 rubles. for 3 years of age and up to 35 thousand for aging for 30 years.
• Cutty Sark- the lightest and most original variety in taste. And the cheapest original adhesive tape - from 800 rubles. per bottle
• Dewar's White label l - the most complex blend in composition. He has a Royal Patent and more than 400 international awards. Exposure from 3 to 25 years, price 4-25 thousand rubles.
• Glenfiddich or scotch tape with deer antlers. Every 4th bottle sold in the world has them on the label. This is a single malt whiskey of the elite class. A bottle of a 40-year-old drink costs 210,000 rubles. The cheapest is about 4 thousand.

The most popular whiskey in Russia

Well, I want to complete my review with the most popular brand among compatriots. Naturally, this is the White Horse - white horse. Also, this whiskey is the first in Japan, the second in Brazil and the third in the US in popularity.

Interestingly, at home, this drink is not even included in the top 20. But on the other hand, the manufacturer is White Horse Distillers Limited, the only one to have the Queen's Award for Achievement in the Development of International Trade.

The distilleries were recently taken over by Diageo, which now owns almost half of the listed brands. The White Horse blend contains more than 20 types of malt and grain alcohols, the taste is sweet, with fruits, the aroma is smoky, with vanilla notes.

On this I say goodbye, although I could tell a lot more interesting things about scotch tape. I will switch to other drinks for now - well, so as not to be offended. Subscribe - and you will receive a letter with a new, exciting investigation on the topic of alcohol. And remember - everything is good in moderation!

Sincerely, Dorofeev Pavel.

Whiskey is an exquisite alcoholic drink that is made from grains of various types using special methods of distillation, storage and aging. Usually it is drunk in its pure form, or mixed in cocktails. Like any other type of alcoholic product, this drink is produced both in the highest and lower quality. In this article, we will give a whiskey rating so that you can decide which option to buy for a home feast, which one is not ashamed to give to a big boss, and which one to use as an investment for the future. After all, collectible bottles “leave” auctions for many thousands of dollars.

Rating of the best whiskey according to the authoritative magazine "Whiskey Bible"

First, it should be noted that the best whiskey is Scotch (Scotch) and Irish. Often a separate rating is compiled, exclusively for these species. Aging and composition are also important - after all, the drink can be single malt, double malt and multi-malt. Even the material from which the barrels for storing alcohol are made is important (oak barrels are considered the best). Taking into account all these factors, and make up a whiskey rating. So, let's listen to the opinion of experts and see how the authoritative sommeliers of the American Whiskey Bible magazine distributed the prizes:

1. In first place is Old Pulteney 21 YO, which earned 97.5 points out of 100 possible. The price for 700 ml is about 200-250 dollars, which is pretty good for the first place winner.

2. The second place of honor, according to the experts of the Whiskey Bible, should be given to the noble drink George T. Stagg, the price for a bottle of which is about 150-160 dollars.

3. Parker's Heritage Collection Wheated Mash Bill Bourbon 10 YO is in third place. Its cost is much less - only 80-90 dollars for a bottle of 750 ml.

We have named three main winners of the rating. Experts then looked at the best varieties in different categories, such as Scotch (Scotch Whiskey), Single Malt Scotch, Irish Whiskey and American Whiskey. I must say that this, perhaps, the most authoritative whiskey rating in the world does not include the varieties of the drink that are widely known to Russian buyers. The only thing that was recognized as one of the best in the “Blended Scotch” category was the more or less familiar Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 YO.

The most delicious whiskey: customer opinion

Agree, you can take into account the opinions of experts about which whiskey is the best in the world. But is it worth relying on them when talking about the taste of the product? After all, sommeliers evaluate drinks according to some special, semi-secret criteria, and what may seem like a divine pleasure to them, an ordinary buyer will not like at all. So, let's look at the rating of whiskey by taste, based on the reviews of the consumers themselves, as well as sales estimates. So, William Lawson’s (Baccardi) is in first place, Johnnie Walker Black Label is firmly in second, and Maccalan whiskey is in third place. Whether experts agree with this rating is a big question... The above Top 3 drinks are based on sales growth data for 2013.

Whiskey rating in the world: top 10 most expensive drinks

Now we come to perhaps the most interesting, because collectible whiskeys cost tens of thousands of dollars, and few people buy them just to enjoy. fragrant drink sitting by the fireplace and smoking a cigar. Such bottles are considered as investments and are carefully stored in special cabinets, which, by the way, also cost a lot of money. So, we present to your attention another whiskey rating. The main selection criterion in it was the price for one bottle of the drink (the rating is based on data from 2013):

1. In the first place - a blend of three varieties of Macallan whiskey, a blend of 1946, at a price of $ 460,000 per bottle. Believe me, the cost of a drink will only increase over the years.

2. In second place is Glenfiddich Janet Sheed Roberts Reserve 1955 whiskey at $94,000 per bottle (compared to the first-place winner, this price seems extremely “affordable”).

3. The third place is again with Macallan, but already with the 1926 blend. The price is $75,000 per bottle.

4. The fourth position is occupied by Glenfiddich 1937 - it seems that the brands Glenfiddich and Macallan have entered into serious competition in terms of price and quality of the product. A bottle of Glenfiddich 1937 costs $71,700.

5. In fifth place is the rare Dalmore 62 Highland Malt Scotch Matheson whiskey at a price of $58,000 per bottle.

6. Positions six to ten were taken by Macallan 55, Dalmore 50, Glenfarclas 1955, Macallan 1939 and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50, where the last number in the title is the number of years of aging. Prices per bottle range from $15,500 for Macallan 55 to $10,000 exactly for Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50.

Popularity rating of inexpensive whiskeys

Of course, it's good to be a millionaire and have a bottle worth ten off-road jeeps in stock ... However, such pleasure is not available to everyone. And therefore, let's look at the whiskey rating by popularity. It includes exactly those drinks that are available to the average customer, because their price does not exceed $30–40 for a standard 0.7 liter bottle. In the process of compiling the rating, the taste of the drink, quality, aftertaste and other important criteria were taken into account.

1. The first place belongs to Kingdom 12 Year Old Scotch whiskey: the product has 12 years of aging and a soft aftertaste.

2. Second on the list is Town Branch Bourbon, a famous American brand.

3. The third is Elmer T. Lee Bourbon Whiskey.

4. The fourth position is occupied by Black Bottle Blended Scotch whiskey (experts say that this “Scotch” has a bright aftertaste with fruity undertones).

5. In fifth place is Russell’s Reserve 6 Year Old Straight Rye Whiskey, it is noteworthy that its strength is 45 degrees.

Value for money: the continuation of the popularity rating of inexpensive whiskeys

If you are a lover, not a connoisseur of this drink, the first five names listed above are unlikely to cause you any associations. But, continuing the rating, you will finally see familiar brands in the list. So:

6. Six-year-old Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is in sixth place.

8. In eighth position - Smooth Ambler Exceptional White Whiskey. It is said to have a pronounced taste of cornmeal.

9. Ninth place was taken by a brand more or less familiar to Russians: the Johnny Drum Green Label drink has a standard 40 degrees and a slightly spicy taste.

10. And the last, tenth place is given to Johnny Drum Black Label, which also has a strength of 40 degrees, and in its taste and aftertaste - shades of vanilla and ... leather.

Popular cocktails containing whiskey

Making alcohol mixes is an art. And a professional bartender can name a dozen cocktails, which include the drink in question. Here are the best and most popular ones:

• the famous whiskey-cola mix (albeit only two ingredients, but still a cocktail) is a real bestseller;
• a cocktail called “Nail” or “Red Nail”, which also includes whiskey and Scottish liqueur “Drumbuie”;
• many people like "Irish coffee" - a hot drink, where whiskey is also added.

In general, it is customary to drink the noble “Scotch” or “Single Malt” simply with ice, so there are not many cocktails with the addition of this Scottish or Irish drink. So, we looked at the rating of whiskey - the most expensive, as well as the most inexpensive, but at the same time of high quality, and the most popular with buyers. We hope our article will help you choose your drink or decide on a gift for a friend or colleague, because alcohol in this category is often used as a present for a birthday or any other holiday.

1. single malt whiskey
2. Blended whiskey
3. Grain whiskey
4. The best whiskey in the world
5. How to choose whiskey?

Whiskey is a strong alcoholic drink made from various grains. There are stages in its preparation:

1. Germination of seeds (malting).
2. Fermentation.
3. Distillation.
4. Aging in oak barrels.

Usually whiskey is made from barley or wheat, but sometimes it can be made from rye. Separately, there is bourbon, which is made from corn. The strength of whiskey can vary over a very wide range, more often it is 32-50%, but sometimes there are drinks containing 60% alcohol. This variety makes it difficult to decide which whiskey to choose.

According to the difference in production technology, three types of whiskey are distinguished:

• malt;
• blended;
• grain.

single malt whiskey

This type of this drink is usually the answer to the question of which whiskey is the best, since it is considered elite, the most expensive and of high quality. Whiskey connoisseurs most fully enjoy single malt whiskey. The technology for the production of this drink is the longest, since it must be infused in oak barrels for at least 3 years. The average exposure time is 10 years.

Single malt (malt whiskey) whiskey - a drink for the production of which germinated barley (barley malt) is used. It must be distinguished from grain whiskey in order not to confuse which whiskeys are considered good.

The amazing ability of this whiskey is the dependence of its aroma and taste on the place of manufacture.

But single malt whiskey is not all the same, but has several subspecies:

• Actually single malt single malt whiskey is made at one distillery, although it allows blending fractions of different harvest years.
• Whiskey single cask is taken from one barrel, it can have cask strength (cask strength), but often it is brought to the standard.
• Quarter cask whiskey is taken from a smaller barrel, which must be American oak. In this case, the strength of the drink increases to 50%, the taste is more saturated, and the ripening process is accelerated. This type of whiskey is most often chosen by the stronger sex, which is not surprising.
• The last type of pure malt (otherwise, blended malt or vatted malt) is a mixture from different distilleries.

There was a well-founded opinion about single malt whiskey that it had too strong a smell and a somewhat unusual taste. For this reason, it began to be mixed with whiskey of other varieties. But such a drink can no longer be called single malt whiskey.

Video about which whiskeys are considered good

Although any single malt whiskey is produced according to standard technology, but in each region it acquires its own specific aroma, by which it is easy to distinguish it from others.

The producers have a little secret that they do not like to advertise too much: there are two different types - consumer whiskey and whiskey from merchants. Both varieties are good. The only difference is that whiskey from merchants is produced in small distilleries, so it is more expensive. The consumer version, on the other hand, is made on an industrial scale, so it is closer to the definition of a good inexpensive whiskey. There is also a difference in personality. Consumer whiskey has a standard good taste and aroma, and the bouquet of whiskey from the merchants is very “dancing”, and not necessarily for the better.

The location of a particular distillery and climate will inevitably affect the quality of single malt whiskey, so each batch is unique in taste. The water used in production is also important, as is the way it is distilled.

The best single malt whiskeys can be found in bottles with the following names:

• Glen Grant, Glenfiddich.
• Bowmore, Highland Park.
• Aberlor Single Malt.

Blended whiskey

It is this type of whiskey that can most often be found in most stores, it is the most affordable. The prices for it are quite reasonable, and the taste is quite pleasant.

Blending is the blending of malt whiskeys with grains during the production. In total, the composition of the blend can include up to 50 different varieties. If the label contains the inscriptions “Deluxe” or “Premium”, then this indicates that the blend is made up only of elite expensive varieties, and the best whiskeys are in front of the buyer.

If we consider the issue in terms of sales volume, then 90% of whiskey sold in the world is blended. There are types of whiskey that contain a minimum of malt drink, such as Chivas Regal, although producers trumpet the opposite. Drinks containing a large proportion of the malt fraction are labeled "Delux", which is something you need to know before choosing a good whisky. For those who do not yet understand the difference in the tastes of different whiskeys, it is best to study them by blended drinks.

Andrew Asher in 1853 developed the first recipe for blended whiskey, and it became the most common and was subsequently called "Old Vatted Glenlivet". Since 1860, whiskey production in England has come under state control. The meaning of blending is not so much to get a unique bouquet, but to maintain its stability from year to year. Any batch of the drink selected for blending immediately undergoes a tasting after distillation. And what kind of whiskey is better: single malt or blended - everyone decides for himself.

Famous representatives of blended whiskey are:

• Ballantines.
• Chivas Regal.
• Bell's.

Grain whiskey

Experts attribute grain whiskey to the lowest quality, even call it technical. Such a drink is made from burnt barley or corn. Grain whiskey also has a significant technological difference from malt whiskey in its production - for its distillation, special stills are used, in which steam contributes to the continuous production of alcohol. In the open sale, such a drink appears quite rarely, since it has almost no smell or taste. But after additional purification, it is used as a semi-finished product for the production of vodka or gin.

Famous brands of grain whiskey:

• Greenore.
• Choice Old Cameron Brig.

The best whiskey in the world

Whiskey producers established the World Whiskeys Award in 2007, which became a kind of Oscar for them. And there were several nominations:

• best malt;
• the best single malt;
• best blended,

as well as the best whiskey by producing countries:

• the best Japanese;
• the best Irish single malt, etc.

The historical spelling of the word "whisky" is whiskey, but in the late 19th century a corruption of the word "whiskey" appeared to distinguish producers in other countries.

New winners are announced every year, so the question of which whiskey is better is more rhetorical. So, in 2014 the following brands won:

• Sullivans Cove French Oak Cask is the best single malt whiskey in the world;
• Taketsuru 17 Years Old - the best blended whiskey;
• The Lost Distilleries Blend - the best blended whiskey;
• Sons of Liberty Pumpk in Spice - the best flavored whiskey;
• Master of Malt Speyside Whiskey Liqueur 40 Years Old - the best whiskey liqueur in the world;
• Teeling Single Grain - the best single grain whiskey;
• Thomas H Handy Sazerac is the best rye whiskey.

How to choose whiskey?

The qualities of whiskey, like other drinks, depend on the ingredients and their proportions, and they create a unique bouquet.

In Scotch whiskey, the main ingredient is barley malt, minimalism rules here. But the Irish decided to add rye there, which has become an integral part of the rich taste. America brought corn and wheat, and in Japan rice and corn get into whiskey along with barley.

A rather free choice and a combination of initial ingredients will not help in deciding which drink is better - this is solely a matter of personal taste. If we are talking about the best classic examples of whiskey, then Scottish and Irish drinks are undoubtedly in the lead. It is important to learn how to drink whiskey correctly in order to feel the fullness of the taste of the drink.

Video about which whiskey is the best

When choosing whiskey in a store, you should look at its composition and strength. The more modest the composition and the higher the fortress, the whiskey is considered “more solid”. Good whiskey can have a color from light yellow to brown.

The presence of sediment is not allowed.

On the walls of the bottle, when turned over, the liquid should go off in a “stocking”, and not in streams. After shaking the bottle with a drink, large air bubbles that do not disappear for a long time should appear in it.

Do you like whiskey? Which variety do you think is the best? Share your opinion in the comments.

There are many types of whiskey in the world. Producers of strong wine have been honing their manufacturing technology for centuries, testing recipes for creating unique alcohol. As a result of many years of trial and error, distillers around the world began to produce some of the most sought-after types.

Whiskey varieties

In accordance with the raw materials used and production technology, the following varieties are distinguished:

Malt whiskey

Single malt whiskey is considered the most expensive and refined. What does this mean? This alcohol is made from barley using a special technology and is made in accordance with old recipes and traditions. Initially, single malt whiskey was used as the basis for blending mixed alcohol.

In 1960, an old recipe for single malt alcohol was restored at the Glenfiddich distillery in Scotland. Connoisseurs of good wine appreciated the revealed taste and aromatic qualities of this noble drink. Since that time, single malt whiskey began to rapidly conquer the world alcohol market.

In turn, this type of strong alcohol has several options. What is the difference between single malt whiskeys?

1. Vatted malt - cask whisky. This type of drink is born by mixing malt alcohol from various distilleries (pure molt). Whiskey production technology at different enterprises is almost the same. But the water used and the special climatic conditions make the alcohol of each distillery individual. When mixing strong wines from different manufacturers, a noble drink of unique taste and aroma is obtained. This whiskey can be called two-malt, although officially there is no such concept in alcohol production technology.
2. Single malt - whiskey from one distillery. For the manufacture of this type of alcohol, the manufacturer uses only single malt whiskey of its own production. In the technology of creating a drink, it is allowed to mix only the same type of alcohol of various degrees of exposure.
3. Single cask - whiskey from one barrel. When creating this type of alcohol, the manufacturer varies only in strength. Extracted from one barrel, whiskey can have its own barrel strength acquired during maturation, or it can be brought by the creator to a standard strength.

Grain whiskey

This type of strong whiskey is made mainly from corn. This is the most base drink that has no flavor. The scope of the drink is the use for making blends. Although a small batch of grain whiskey in its pure form goes on sale.

The drink, which is planned to be used for blending, undergoes a single distillation. With more thorough distillation (up to 5 times), alcohol is used to create vodka and gin.

Blended whiskey

90% of the production volume is blended drink. What is the difference between single malt alcohol and blended alcohol? The answer is simple - composition. Blended alcohol consists of single malt and grain whiskey. Each manufacturer of strong alcohol creates its own unique bouquet, taking into account the traditions and preferences of the consumer. The most famous and noble is the Scottish blended version.

When getting acquainted with this amazing drink, many people have a question - which whiskey is better single malt or blended. The answer to this question can only be found by tasting these drinks. As you know, there is no comrade for the taste and color. Someone likes the rich bouquet created as a result of blending. Someone prefers a discreet, monogamous drink. This problem can only be solved experimentally. And everyone will have their own decision.

Another type is bourbon. This is an American whiskey made from corn using a special technology. And, although it belongs to the category of whiskey, it has an absolutely unique taste and aroma, different from other types of this alcohol.

Classification by place of production

In addition to classification by composition, the drink is also divided by country of origin.

• Scottish (scotch). The most common type of whiskey is produced in Scotland. Traditionally, whiskey is considered to be Scotch, the alcohol for which was produced in Scotland. And it doesn't matter in what part of the world this drink was bottled. A huge number of distilleries supply single malt and blended whiskey to the world market.
• Irish. A distinctive feature of this alcohol is the absence of smoke flavor. Alcohol with such properties is born thanks to a special maturation process and the container used.
• American. In America, hard liquor is made from corn, rye, and a small amount of barley. Thanks to the peculiarities in the technological process and the unique recipe, the drink differs significantly from the Scottish and Irish.
• Canadian. In Canada, the main raw material for the production of alcohol is rye. On the labels of this drink there is a mark "RYE".
• Japanese. Alcohol produced in Japan goes to the Asian market, it is almost impossible to try it here. The quality of Japanese whiskey resembles scotch. The difference lies in the absence of peat aftertaste.

Each species is original in its own way and deserves attention. The final choice remains with the consumer.

Whiskey comes in three main types - malt, grain and blended. Malty - made from pure barley malt without impurities. Grain from different types of cereals, it almost entirely goes to the production of blended whiskey, but partly goes on sale. Blended is a blend of whiskeys made from different types of grains. There is also - corn American whiskey, created using a special technology.

The best of the best

Since 2007 there has been a ‘World Whiskeys Award’. It's like an Oscar for whiskey producers all over the world. The award is given in several categories: "Best Whiskey", "Best Malt Whiskey", "Best Blended Whiskey". Awards are also given by country - the best producers drink - "Best Irish Single Malt Whiskey", "Best Japanese Whiskey", etc.

In Scotland, the word "whiskey" is spelled "whisky", in all other countries - "whiskey".

Each year, the winning labels change, so keeping up with new trends in the production of whiskey is not so easy. Here are the results for 2014:

1. Best Single Malt Whiskey in the World - Sullivans Cove French Oak Cask
2. Best Blended Whiskey - Taketsuru 17 Years Old
3. The best blended whiskey - The Lost Distilleries Blend
4. Best Flavored Whiskey - Sons of Liberty Pumpkin Spice
5. World's Best Whiskey Liqueur - Master of Malt Speyside Whiskey Liqueur 40 Years Old
6. Best Single Grain Whiskey - Teeling Single Grain
7. Best American Whiskey - Balcones Brimstone Resurrection
8. Best Rye Whiskey - Thomas H Handy Sazerac

How to choose a great whiskey in a store

But, of course, not everyone has the opportunity to visit the prestigious award and try all the listed varieties there. And in general, in Russia, most of them are quite difficult to buy. However, there are a few tricks that will allow you to use the existing range of whiskey for yourself or as a gift.

The word comes from the Celtic "uisce beatha" - "living water".

First, pay attention to the country of origin. The best whiskey is produced in the USA, Ireland, Scotland and Japan. Most likely, there will be no complaints about products from these countries. True, if the label says in Russian "Scotch whiskey" or, say, "Scotch-type whiskey", then this is a product made in Russia and bears little resemblance to real whiskey.

Look at how the label is stuck on. It should be positioned evenly and glued without bubbles. Pay attention to the composition. Real whiskey should contain only water and grain or corn - no ethyl alcohol, no flavors or fragrances.

The color of good whiskey can be from light to dark golden. There should be no sediment in the bottle.

When turning the bottle over, the whiskey should fall down in a large drop, and not flow down the walls.

Finally, when shaking the whiskey, large air bubbles should appear that do not disappear for a long time.