Whisky, which is associated with Scotland and its birthplace, is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. It can be found in everything from desserts to cold remedies.
What is Whisky?
Whisky is an alcoholic drink made by distilling fermented grain (crushed grains combined with water). Whiskies are aged for a period of time in wood casks. Different types of wood and treatments are used to age different whisky’s.
Whisky can be made from wheat, rye corn, barley and other grains. However, they must all be fermented and distilled, and then aged in barrels.
Where is Whisky Produced?
The first whisky was produced in Scotland in 1495. The word whisky is derived from the Gaelic meaning of “water of life”.
Although Scotch Whisky must be produced in Scotland, it is also available from Canada (where this industry experienced a boom during American prohibition) and Japan.
The most common type of whiskey with an “e” is bourbon, which comes from the United States.
Menu idea Old Fashioned
The drink was first featured in the Chicago Daily Tribune of 1880. In the 2010s, Don Draper, the Mad Men icon chose it as his favourite.
It’s not only easy to make, but it also contains no ingredients that are difficult to find or exotic. Add a generous amount whisky, a little sugar and bitters to a muddled mixture. Garnish with an orange peel.
Whisky tip: Learn how to use each whisky.
While whisky can be used in a variety of ways, some types are more suitable for a particular purpose. For the best results, familiarize yourself with whiskies and their uses. You can, for example:
- Blended Scotch is better than single malt for cocktails, because it’s less expensive and less overwhelming.
- The smoky sweetness of Bourbon contrasts beautifully against the saltiness in meat.
- The rye whisky’s spicy tang complements fruits, so it is perfect for desserts like trifle or pavlova.
What is the Difference between Whisky and Scotch?
The whisky’s origin will determine the spelling. In Scotland, Japan, and Canada the word is spelled “whisky”. In Ireland and America, it’s spelled with an “e”.
Menu Idea – Whisky Cream Sauce
This Scottish staple is usually eaten with Haggis at Burns Night. However, it can also be used to make a delicious and unique sauce for any red meat dish. It can be used to make a burger relish, or mixed with caramel for a custard or pudding.
The whisky sauce can be made by lighting the whisky in a saucepan on a high heat and adding plenty of double-cream. The sauce can be used immediately or frozen and re-used as required. It will keep for three months in the refrigerator.
What is the Best Whisky?
There is no ‘best’ whisky. It is all down to individual taste.
Single malt whisky, however, is considered to be the premium variety. Single malt whisky is produced at only one distillery, and it is exclusively made from barley. Blended whisky may contain multiple grains or combine expensive whisky and less expensive whisky. Single malt whisky is generally considered to have a stronger flavour than blended whisky.
Menu Idea – Whisky Cheesecake
This rich dessert has a real edge and can add a modern touch to traditional St Patrick’s Day menus or Burns Night. This works particularly well with fruit-based desserts as the whisky or whiskey (if you choose an Irish variety of whiskey) balances the sweetness.
Add whisky to the cream cheese mixture for a boozy twist on your cheesecake.
Whisky tip: Store whisky correctly
It’s vital to maintain the quality of your whisky, as it can be a costly ingredient. Whisky bottles should be kept in a dry, cool place where temperatures and conditions do not fluctuate.
The liquid will expand when the temperature changes. This is not just due to external factors such as the label. Keep the bottle away from direct sunlight and finish the contents within two months after opening.
Whisky tip: Don’t overdo it
Whisky is a strong flavour and aroma that can easily overpower any dish. When cooking with whisky, it is best to be cautious and taste as you cook.
Remember that whisky can be highly flammable. If you are cooking it directly over the flame, it is important to lower the head first and reduce the liquid.
