What are the most popular types of Whisky?

Whether it is a gift or otherwise, here are the types of Whisky there are and some brands you can start with.

There are many different types of whisky, and the popularity of each type can vary depending on the region and cultural preferences of the drinkers. Here are some of the most popular types of whisky:

Type of Whisky #1: Scotch whisky

Scotch whisky is a type of whisky that is made in Scotland from malted barley, water, and yeast. It is aged in oak barrels for at least three years and is known for its smoky, peaty flavor. There are several types of Scotch whisky, including single malt, blended, and grain.

Single malt whisky is made from 100% malted barley and is produced at a single distillery. It is often considered the highest quality type of Scotch whisky and is known for its complexity and depth of flavor. Some popular single malt Scotch whiskies include:

1. Glenfiddich: Glenfiddich is a well-known brand of single malt Scotch whisky that is known for its smooth, floral flavor and a wide range of expressions.

2. Glenlivet: Glenlivet is a popular brand of single malt Scotch whisky that is known for its smooth, fruity flavor and a wide range of expressions.

3. Macallan: Macallan is a premium brand of single malt Scotch whisky that is known for its rich, sherried flavor and a wide range of expressions.

Blended Scotch whisky is made from a mixture of single malt and grain whiskies, which are blended together to create a more consistent flavor profile. Blended Scotch whiskies are typically smoother and less expensive than single malt whiskies, and they are popular with many drinkers. Some popular blended Scotch whiskies include:

1. Johnnie Walker: Johnnie Walker is a well-known brand of blended Scotch whisky that is known for its smooth, consistent flavor and a wide range of expressions.

2. Chivas Regal: Chivas Regal is a popular brand of blended Scotch whisky that is known for its smooth, rich flavor and a wide range of expressions.

3. Dewar's: Dewar's is a brand of blended Scotch whisky that is known for its smooth, easy-drinking style and a wide range of expressions.

Grain whisky is made from grains other than barley, such as corn, wheat, or rye. It is typically lighter and smoother in flavor than single malt or blended whisky, and it is often used to create blended Scotch whiskies. Some popular grain whiskies include:

1. Haig Club: Haig Club is a brand of grain whisky that is known for its smooth, easy-drinking style and a distinctive blue bottle.

2. Compass Box: Compass Box is a brand of grain whisky that is known for its innovative flavor profiles and high-quality ingredients.

These are just a few examples of the many brands of Scotch whisky available. It's a good idea to try a few different brands to see which one you like best. Keep in mind that Scotch whiskies can vary in flavor and strength, so it's important to read the label and choose one that is appropriate for your taste and occasion.

Whisky type #2: Bourbon whisky

Bourbon whisky is a type of American whisky made from at least 51% corn, as well as other grains such as rye, wheat, and barley. It is aged in charred oak barrels for at least two years, which gives it its distinctive amber color and flavors of wood and vanilla. Bourbon whisky is popular in the United States and is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

There are many brands of Bourbon whisky available, and the best ones will depend on your personal taste and preferences. Here are some popular Bourbon brands to consider:

1. Maker's Mark: Maker's Mark is a well-known brand of Bourbon whisky that is known for its smooth, mellow flavor and signature red wax seal.

2. Jim Beam: Jim Beam is a popular brand of Bourbon whisky that is known for its classic flavor and affordability.

3. Bulleit: Bulleit is a brand of Bourbon whisky that is known for its high-rye content and spicy, bold flavor.

4. Woodford Reserve: Woodford Reserve is a premium brand of Bourbon whisky that is known for its complex, nuanced flavor and high quality.

5. Four Roses: Four Roses is a brand of Bourbon whisky that is known for its smooth, easy-drinking style and a wide range of flavors.

These are just a few examples of the many brands of Bourbon whisky available. It's a good idea to try a few different brands to see which one you like best. Keep in mind that Bourbon whiskies can vary in flavor and strength, so it's important to read the label and choose one that is appropriate for your taste and occasion.

Want to learn more? Read out article on Bourbon vs. Whisky.

Whisky type #3: Irish whiskey

Irish whiskey is a type of whisky made in Ireland from a mixture of grains, including barley, corn, oats, and rye. It is typically triple-distilled and aged in oak barrels, which gives it a smooth, mellow flavor. Irish whiskey is popular around the world and is often enjoyed as an alternative to Scotch whisky.

There are many brands of Irish whiskey available, and the best ones will depend on your personal taste and preferences. Here are some popular Irish whiskey brands to consider:

1. Jameson: Jameson is a well-known brand of Irish whiskey that is known for its smooth, balanced flavor and a wide range of expressions.

2. Bushmills: Bushmills is a popular brand of Irish whiskey that is known for its smooth, creamy flavor and a wide range of expressions.

3. Tullamore D.E.W.: Tullamore D.E.W. is a brand of Irish whiskey that is known for its smooth, approachable flavor and a wide range of expressions.

4. Redbreast: Redbreast is a premium brand of Irish whiskey that is known for its rich, sherried flavor and a wide range of expressions.

5. Kilbeggan: Kilbeggan is a brand of Irish whiskey that is known for its smooth, easy-drinking style and a wide range of expressions.

Whisky type #4: Japanese whisky 

Japanese whisky is a type of whisky that is made in Japan using a production process similar to that used for Scotch whisky. It is made from a variety of grains, including corn, rice, and wheat, and is aged in oak barrels for several years. Japanese whisky is known for its smooth, delicate flavor and has gained popularity in recent years.

There are many brands of Japanese whisky available, and the best ones will depend on your personal taste and preferences. Here are some popular Japanese whisky brands to consider:

1. Suntory: Suntory is a well-known brand of Japanese whisky that is known for its smooth, refined flavor and a wide range of expressions.

2. Nikka: Nikka is a popular brand of Japanese whisky that is known for its smooth, balanced flavor and a wide range of expressions.

3. Yamazaki: Yamazaki is a premium brand of Japanese whisky that is known for its complex, nuanced flavor and a wide range of expressions.

4. Hibiki: Hibiki is a brand of Japanese whisky that is known for its smooth, harmonious flavor and a wide range of expressions.

5. Chichibu: Chichibu is a brand of Japanese whisky that is known for its bold, innovative flavor profiles and a wide range of expressions.

There are many other types of whisky, including Canadian whisky, Taiwanese whisky, and Indian whisky, to name a few. The popularity of these types of whisky can vary depending on the region and cultural preferences of the drinkers.