Whisky or Whiskey

What's in an E

America & Ireland

Ireland and America alone use Whiskey

America & Ireland are the only Countries in the world to use the letter E in Whiskey. While Whiskey is the preferred Irish spelling its popularity in America may be as consequence of the vast Irish diaspora which settled America

The Rest of the World

The E is Omited by Everywhere Else

Scotland is, at least in terms of numerical production, the foremost producer of the worlds Whisky with 80 active distilleries. America, Japan and Ireland follow as second, third and fourth respectively.

What defines a Bourbon, a Whisky and a Scotch

Whisky/Whiskey

There are no universally accepted standards which define what can be called a Whisky or a Whiskey

Much as there is no single accepted spelling, there are no universally accepted agreements or standards a spirit must meet to be considered a Whisky or Whiskey. While Scottish and Irish Whiskies are traditionally held to be of superior quality this view is being challenged

Bourbon

Unlike Whisky or Whiskey the name Bourbon signifies that the spirit is American in origin

The Legislation which defines a Bourbon in the USA is not internationally accepted, particularly in Europe however trade agreements require the name Bourbon is reserved for American Whiskey though other regulations are rarely enforced reducing distinction

Scotch

Similarly Scotch signifies that the Spirit is produced in Scotland, and at least 40% (80 proof) or stronger

Much like Bourbon Scotch is primarily understood as a regional signified however 2009 saw the introduction of Scottish Whisky Regulations covering not only production but labelling, packaging and advertised. Many of which are enforced via international trade agreements

What legislation separate a Bourbon and a Scotch

Bourbon

      Produced in the United States
      Pproduced using at least 51% corn
      Aged in unused, charred oak barrels
      Distilled at less that 80% ABV (160 proof)
      Barrell aged from at least 62.5% (125 proof)
      Bottled at least 40% ABV (180 proof)

Scotch

      Produced in Scotland from water & barley
      Produced into a mash
      Fermented by adding yeast
      Produced in Scotland from water & barley
      Distilled at an ABV no higher than 94.8%
      Cask matured for 3 years or more
      Bottled at least 40% ABV (180 proof)

What ingredients separate a Bourbon and Scotch

Bourbon

      51% Corn
      Typically 10% Malted Barley
      39% of Any other Grain

Scotch

      100% malted barley*

While single malt Whisky, arguably the most popular variety is distilled with 100% Malted Barley, blended whiskies may contain other grain spirits, though these must be distilled seperately.