Whisky

We could simply say that whiskey is a liquor that derives from fermented grains but, as most connoisseurs know, the world of spirits is much more complicated than that. Actually, the whiskey category includes a huge variety of spirits, from bourbon to scotch. To create completely new flavors, the producers experiment with different grain types.

Flavors can range from sweet to spicy and smoky. Most whiskeys were born as a standalone drink, but you can always choose your favorite mixers and invent your own cocktail recipes.

If you're a fan of this elegant liquor, you've probably already read both versions of the name on your bottles. Simply put, "whisky" without the "e" comes from Scotland, Canada or Japan. "Whiskey" with the "e" comes from Ireland and the United States.

Did you know that bourbon is a type of aged whiskey? It ages for two years in brand-spanking-new oak barrels. It's not a joke as producers use bourbon barrels only once, then they pass them on to other distillers who use them for rums, tequilas and other liquors. Sounds like a pretty sustainable production method! Bourbon is the most popular type of whiskey in mixed drinks. After all, could you imagine a Manhattan or John Collins without it?

Scotch whisky, like the name suggests, hails from Scotland. A particular malt drying process imparts to the liquor a distinctive smoky taste, which is even stronger in single malt varieties.