Whisky, also known as the Water of Life, is a drink with immense heritage. The history of whisky dates as far back as 1494 AD when England’s King James IV’s granted monk Friar John Cor ‘eight bolls of malt’ to make aquae vitae, Latin for ‘Water of Life’, the nickname of whisky. This wonderful drink has captivated the hearts of many over the past five hundred years. Today, whisky has emerged as one of the most popular spirits of choice in Southeast Asia and it is continuing to grow in prominence amongst all age groups and discerning drinkers. It has also developed beyond blends, with single malts and whiskies from around the world making headway in the world’s markets. The question remains, though, why drink whisky?
Complexity and Diversity
One of the best reasons to drink whisky is because it is one of the most complex and diverse spirits in the world. Through the process of distillation and maturation in a diverse array of casks, whisky has been scientifically proven to contain over 300 detectable chemical compounds, which contribute to the myriad flavours and aromas. What makes whisky all the more interesting is the diversity it offers as a spirit. With over 105 distilleries in Scotland alone – and distilleries in over 15 other countries, each blessed with its own unique climatic and geographical conditions or terroir – the flavour possibilities based on geography alone are endless.
Add to that the differences in production – from the use of peat to the use of unmalted barley, the use of sherry and bourbon casks to the more recent trend of using different wine casks to mature whisky, a complex interaction even science cannot explain – and you have a diversity not seen in most other spirits. This means you can try ten whiskies a day and be treated to ten totally different flavour experiences. Hence it is not just limited to the world of standard blends and is definitely not just for mixing. With so many possibilities to explore, it is far more complex and varied than that!
Appreciating Whisky
So the next time you pick up a whisky, how should you drink it? For starters, do not let anyone tell you there is a ‘proper’ way to drink whisky. Just drink it whatever way you like, with ice, with water or neat. However, if you want to appreciate the complexities of it, you might want to use a tulip-shaped glass, drink it neat and most certainly do not kick back a whole shot. Take some time to inhale the amazing aromas and then hold it in your mouth a while before swallowing, to let the flavours develop on your palate. You can also expose yourself to the different styles of whisky via websites like Whisky Advocate, which help introduce the major flavour groups whiskies can be divided into.
Either way, give your next whisky more attention, and before you know it, you could be on a journey of discovery like no other! Slainte!
Original post dated 18 May 2012.