Issue 1
February 2025
WHISKEY LEARN. SIP. ENJOY.
NEWBIE
START YOUR JOURNEY
TASTE LIKE A PRO
In this edition
WHAT IS WHISKEY
Crafted from grain, perfected in oak, savored for life.
FOUR GRAINS
LEARN TO SIP LIKE A PRO Master the Sip: Taste Whiskey Like a Pro. Four Grains, One Spirit: The Art of Balanced Whiskey.
WHISKEY OR WHISKY!
THE GLENCAIRN GLASS Glassware that Elevates Every Sip! Whisky or Whiskey: It’s All About the ‘E’
TOP 5 STARTER WHISKEYS Sip, Savor, Start Your Journey.
ORIGIN STORY Every Legacy Has a First Pour, My Journey into Whiskey! EXPLORE THE LEGACY 5! The Foundation and Location of Great Whiskey.
From the Founder Golf and whiskey have more in common than you might think. Both are steeped in tradition, demand patience and precision, and, above all, are best enjoyed with good company. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just discovering the game, a whiskey connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this magazine is your guide to the finer things in life—on the course and in the glass. At the heart of this journey is GolfCask, a creation born from my lifelong love of golf and a deep dive into the world of whiskey. As a passionate coach with over 30 years in the game and a certified Bourbon Steward, I’ve spent years refining both my golf swing and my palate. GolfCask is the result—a fusion of fairways and fine spirits, where humor, craftsmanship, and camaraderie come together. In this issue, we explore the rich history and influence of the five main legacy distillers, breaking down what makes their whiskeys stand the test of time. We’ll also take a deep dive into the art of drinking whiskey—how to nose it, taste it, and truly appreciate every sip. Most importantly, this magazine is about the journey. The journey of learning, tasting, exploring, and sharing. Whether it's finding your perfect putting stroke or discovering the subtleties of a single barrel pour, we believe both whiskey and golf are lifelong pursuits, meant to be savored and refined. So, pour yourself a dram, tee it up, and join us on this adventure. Welcome to GolfCask Magazine —where every round is best enjoyed with a story and a sip.
Brian M. Bailie Founder of GolfCask
Join Us Friend,
Where Golf, Whiskey, and Community Meet - Golf is more than a game, whiskey is more than a drink, and life is meant to be savored. Welcome to the Greens & Grain Society, where we celebrate the fusion of golf, whiskey, community, and adventure. Our society is built for those who appreciate the finer things in life – a well-struck iron, a perfectly aged pour, and the camaraderie of good company. With a strong footprint for online meetups and in-person gatherings throughout the year, our members connect across the country and beyond, sharing their love for the game and the glass.
Here, we focus on what truly matters:
🏌️ Slowing down and enjoying the game. 🥃 Savoring a great pour. 🤝 Spending time with humans being human.
Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a weekend warrior, a whiskey aficionado or just whiskey curious, you belong here. Come for the game, stay for the stories, and raise a glass to the journey.
Join us today – because life, like golf and whiskey, is best enjoyed in good company.
Cheers, The Greens & Grain Society
WHAT IS A WHISKEY?
Whiskey is a timeless spirit with a rich history and a wide range of styles, making it a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. At its core, whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from grains such as barley, corn, rye, or wheat. The grains are mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged in wooden barrels, typically oak, which impart flavor and character. The word “whiskey” is derived from the Gaelic term “uisce beatha,” meaning “water of life.” Its origins can be traced back to medieval monks in Ireland and Scotland who began distilling grains into spirits as early as the 15th century. Today, whiskey is produced worldwide, with each region adding its own unique twist. Scotch whisky, known for its smoky flavors, is primarily made in Scotland, while Irish whiskey is smoother and often triple-distilled. Bourbon, an American classic, is made predominantly from corn and aged in charred oak barrels, giving it a sweeter profile. Rye whiskey, another American variety, offers spicier notes, while Japanese whisky has gained acclaim for its precision and delicate balance. Enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, whiskey’s versatility and depth of flavor make it a staple in the world of spirits. Whether you’re new to whiskey or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s always more to explore in this complex and captivating drink.
Whiskey is more than just a spirit—it’s a reflection of craftsmanship, tradition, and the grains that form its foundation. While aging in oak barrels and distillation techniques shape its final profile, the true backbone of whiskey comes from the grains used in its mash bill. These grains define the whiskey’s sweetness, spice, texture, and depth, making them essential to understanding what’s in your glass. At the heart of whiskey-making are four key grains: corn, rye, barley, and wheat. Corn provides a rich sweetness, making bourbon smooth and approachable. Rye delivers bold spice, adding a lively kick. Barley, especially malted barley, brings nutty, toasty depth and is essential in single malts. Wheat is the softest and smoothest, lending a creamy, mellow quality. Whether used alone or in combination, these grains determine a whiskey’s character. For new whiskey drinkers, learning about these grains helps make sense of different styles and flavors. Instead of choosing a bottle based on branding, you can start to identify why certain whiskeys appeal to your palate. Whether you prefer the sweetness of bourbon, the spice of rye, the complexity of malt, or the smoothness of wheat, understanding these grains will deepen your appreciation for whiskey. Now, let’s take a closer look at each grain and how it shapes the flavors in your favorite whiskeys. The Four Grains of Whiskey: A Guide for New Enthusiasts
By Brian Bailie
Barley is a key player in whiskey making, though it often takes a supporting role in American whiskey. However, in Scotch whisky and Irish whiskey, barley—especially malted barley—is the star ingredient. This grain brings a toasty, nutty, and biscuity flavor to whiskey, often with additional notes of toffee, honey, dried fruit, and even coffee or chocolate in more heavily roasted varieties. One of barley’s most important contributions to whiskey is its enzymatic power, which helps break down starches into fermentable sugars. This is why even small amounts of malted barley are included in many bourbon and rye mash bills—it helps convert the starch from other grains into fermentable sugar, ensuring a smooth and efficient fermentation process. Single malt whiskey, which consists of 100% malted barley, showcases the grain’s full complexity. Whether you’re sipping a classic Speyside Scotch like Glenlivet (which leans toward honeyed, fruity notes) or a peaty Islay Scotch like Laphroaig (which carries strong smoke and maritime flavors), malted barley plays a crucial role in shaping the whiskey’s profile. American single malts, such as those from Westland or Stranahan’s, highlight barley’s malty richness with a modern twist, often incorporating different levels of roast to enhance chocolate and coffee flavors. If you enjoy whiskeys with depth, complexity, and a bit of roasted warmth, look for those with a high malted barley content. Whether in Scotch, Irish whiskey, or the growing American single malt category, barley delivers a unique and satisfying experience. Barley - The Malty Backbone
Corn - The Sweet Backbone
Corn is the dominant grain in bourbon, as it must legally make up at least 51% of the mash bill to be considered bourbon. However, many bourbons push that percentage much higher, sometimes upwards of 75%, making corn the undisputed king of American whiskey. The reason? Corn brings a distinct sweetness that serves as a rich and full- bodied foundation. It produces flavors of caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, and honey, creating a whiskey that is both smooth and approachable. Beyond sweetness, corn-based whiskeys often have a thicker mouthfeel, contributing to the creamy texture many bourbon lovers enjoy. Because of this, bourbons tend to be easy-drinking, making them an excellent starting point for new whiskey enthusiasts. Distilleries that emphasize corn in their mash bills often highlight its natural sweetness by aging the whiskey in new charred oak barrels, which add complementary notes of oak, spice, and deep caramelization. Famous high-corn bourbons include Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, and Evan Williams, each offering a smooth, vanilla-forward experience. If you prefer an even richer, sweeter bourbon, look for straight corn whiskey, like Mellow Corn, which contains at least 80% corn and showcases its bold sweetness even more prominently.
Rye - The Bold and Spicy One If corn is the sweet and smooth backbone of bourbon, rye is its fiery and bold counterpart. Rye whiskey, whether a straight rye (which requires at least 51% rye in the mash bill) or a high-rye bourbon, is known for its distinct spice, dryness, and peppery kick. Flavors commonly found in rye whiskey include black pepper, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and even hints of citrus or dill. This grain provides a more robust and aggressive profile, making rye whiskey a favorite among those who enjoy a bold, complex sip. Rye whiskey has a long history in American distilling, particularly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, where it was once the dominant style before bourbon took over. It is also a staple in classic cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Sazerac, where its spicier character balances out the sweetness of sugar and vermouth. Compared to bourbon, rye whiskey has a leaner, drier mouthfeel, which some drinkers find more refreshing and lively. High-rye bourbons, such as Four Roses Single Barrel and Bulleit Bourbon, strike a balance between sweetness and spice, offering the best of both worlds. If you’re looking for a true rye experience, explore whiskeys like Rittenhouse Rye, Michter’s Rye, and WhistlePig, all of which highlight rye’s bold and dynamic character.
Wheat - The Smooth Operator
Wheat is the softest and mellowest of the four primary whiskey grains. Unlike rye, which contributes spice, or corn, which leans into sweetness, wheat provides a gentle, bready, and slightly nutty flavor. It has a creamy mouthfeel that makes wheated bourbons especially smooth and approachable. Wheated bourbons replace rye in the mash bill, resulting in a sweeter, rounder flavor profile with notes of honey, vanilla, buttered toast, and light floral undertones. This style of whiskey is particularly beloved by those who prefer a smoother, less aggressive sip, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those who enjoy an easy-drinking whiskey. Perhaps the most famous wheated bourbon is Pappy Van Winkle, a legendary and highly sought-after brand known for its rich, caramel- laden profile. Other excellent wheated bourbons include Weller, Maker’s Mark, and Larceny, all of which deliver a balanced, soft, and slightly sweet experience. Beyond bourbon, wheat whiskey is its own category, with brands like Bernheim Wheat Whiskey showcasing the grain’s full potential. These whiskeys highlight wheat’s gentle, warm, and slightly nutty character, perfect for those who enjoy a mild, easygoing sip without the bold spice of rye or the heavier sweetness of corn.
By Brian Bailie
Learn to Enjoy a Pour!, where we blend the fine art of drinking whiskey with just a splash of golf humor. Much like playing a tricky par 3, sipping whiskey isn’t about rushing the shot—it’s about slowing down, savoring the moment, and maybe avoiding a few hazards along the way. Whiskey, like golf, rewards the patient and punishes the careless. That’s why we’re here to help you approach your glass with the same care as lining up a birdie putt. From the satisfying pop of the cork (arguably more satisfying than sinking a 20-footer) to the rich, complex finish that lingers longer than a wayward slice, each step in this tasting journey is designed to elevate your appreciation for the game—and the pour. So grab your glass, tee up your favorite bottle, and let’s take a swing at sipping whiskey like a pro. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the round, not rush it, because in whiskey, just like golf, it’s all about the journey, not just the scorecard! 🥃 Playing 9 - Learn to Enjoy a Pour!
The Uncork: Pop that cork like it owes you money—enjoy the satisfying thwop that sets the tone.
The Pour: Choose your adventure: a wee nip for class or a three-finger pour if you're feeling generous (or it's been that kind of day).
Color Check: Hold it up like a treasure map—anything from golden hay to deep amber screams character (and maybe no caramel coloring cheats).
Swirl: it like you're auditioning for a wine commercial. Check out those legs— viscosity hints at proof, and hey, thicker legs might mean thicker pours later.
Nose Dive: Get your nose in there like you’re sniffing out gossip. Move the glass around, keep your mouth open, and let your olfactory senses do their thing.
The Primer Sip: A tiny sip, just to coat the mouth. This isn’t the main event—it’s the warm-up act. Hold it for 10-15 seconds to tell your taste buds it’s go time.
The True Taste: Now sip with purpose.
Notice the first flavors up front, the transitions, and the finale. Is it sweet, spicy, smoky? Basically, it’s a flavor rollercoaster.
The Finish: Does it hang around like an overzealous guest, or exit politely? Wet or dry? Pay attention to those final flavors—it’s the whiskey’s mic drop
Repeat: Rinse, repeat, and enjoy every drop. If the glass empties too fast, don’t blame me—blame the whiskey for being delicious.
GolfCask isn’t just a website —it’s a lifestyle. As a member, you gain access to a unique community that blends the traditions of golf with the art of whiskey appreciation. Expect exclusive whiskey tastings, private barrel selections, and one-of-a-kind golf experiences at some of the finest courses.
Membership includes:
🏌️ The 19th Forum – Our exclusive online gathering place for spirited golf-and- whiskey discussions.
📖 Quarterly GolfCask Magazine – A deep dive into the world of golf, whiskey, and the culture that connects them.
🗺️ The GolfCask Map – A curated guide to certified bars, distilleries, golf courses, and fellow members around the country.
🎥 GolfCask Video Platform – Exclusive content featuring golf insights, whiskey education, and member-driven stories.
🤝 The Greens & Grain Society – A dedicated space for members to connect, share experiences, and meet both online and in person throughout the year.
📝 Inside the Ropes – Our exclusive blog keeping members up to date on everything GolfCask: whiskey, golf, membership news, and the experiences that bring it all together. Whether online or on the course, GolfCask is about bringing like-minded individuals together to share stories, raise a glass, and enjoy the game the way it was meant to be—unhurried, enjoyable, and with a great pour in hand. And this is just the beginning...
Whiskey or Whisky? The One- Letter Divide That Keeps Spirits High
BY BRIAN BAILIE
Ever wondered why ‘whiskey’ is sometimes spelled with an E and other times without it? It’s the kind of debate that sparks passionate opinions, much like whether a fade is better than a draw (it depends), or if putting should be all feel or technical (it’s both). So, let’s settle this once and for all—preferably with a dram in hand.
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The Origins: A Wee Bit of History The word whiskey itself comes from the Irish phrase ‘uisce beatha’ (pronounced ish-ka ba-ha), which means ‘water of life.’ The Scots, never ones to let the Irish have all the fun, adopted a similar term, calling it ‘usquebaugh’, which eventually evolved into ‘whisky.’ Fast forward to the 1800s, when Ireland and Scotland were two of the biggest whiskey-producing regions in the world. Competition was fierce—think of it like golf’s greatest rivalries, Palmer vs. Nicklaus, Tiger vs. Phil. To stand out, Irish distillers decided to add an E, spelling it ‘whiskey’ to separate their product from Scottish whisky. Meanwhile, the Scots held firm to tradition, keeping it ‘whisky’—no E, no fuss
And just like that, a one-letter spelling war was born.
The Rule of Thumb (Or Pinkie, Depending on How You Hold Your Glass)
Here’s a simple way to remember it:
If the country has an E in its name, it often spells whiskey with an E. If the country has no E, it spells whisky without an E. So, for the major whiskey-producing nations:
Ireland & the United States → Whiskey (E included) Scotland, Canada & Japan → Whisky (E left out)
It’s a bit like remembering whether to use a blade or a mallet putter—mostly preference, but rooted in tradition.
Exceptions: Because Rules Were Made to Be Bent (Like That Perfect High Cut Shot) Of course, there are outliers. Some American bourbons, like Maker’s Mark and Old Forester, skip the E in tribute to their Scotch whisky influences. It’s the same way some players insist on persimmon woods —they’re not wrong, just… committed to history. Does the Spelling Change What’s in the Bottle? Absolutely not. Whether it’s whisky or whiskey, you’re still getting a beautifully crafted spirit made from fermented grains, distilled below 190 proof, and aged in oak. The spelling is just part of the rich history— and let’s be honest, no one’s ever turned down a great pour over a missing letter. Final Thought: A Toast to the Divide So, next time you’re sitting at the 19th hole, enjoying a well-earned pour, and someone asks, “Is it whiskey or whisky?”—you’ve got the answer. It all started with uisce beatha, the water of life, and one extra letter that created a divide still alive today. Much like golf, whiskey is about tradition, passion, and personal preference—whether you sip it neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water. And at GolfCask, we believe the only real debate worth having is which whiskey (or whisky) pairs best with your game.
Cheers, Sláinte, and Fore!
More Than a Solo Cup
The Glencairn Glass By Brian Bailie
In the world of whiskey, glassware matters. Sure, you can sip from a Solo cup, but if you want to look like a refined drinker, the Glencairn glass is your answer.
A Glass with a Pedigree
For centuries, whiskey was swirled in whatever was handy—tumblers, tankards, even boots. Then in 2001, Scotland’s Glencairn crystal company changed the game. Inspired by traditional nosing copitas, they designed a glass that enhances aroma, softens alcohol burn, and adds a touch of class to your pour.
Why Whiskey Fans Swear by It
The tulip shape concentrates aromas, the short base prevents spills (key after a few drams), and drinking from one signals you’re here to experience whiskey, not just drink it.
The GolfCask Twist
At GolfCask, we love good whiskey with a good laugh. The Glencairn may scream sophistication, but it’s also your best bet for looking like you belong in a private clubhouse, even if your go-to pour is still budget bourbon. Just don’t spill it on your scorecard.
Top 5 Whiskeys for New Whiskey Fans Buffalo Trace – Smooth, Classic, and Never Disappoints A go-to bourbon that’s easy to sip with caramel, vanilla, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Perfect for those dipping their toes into whiskey without diving straight into the deep end.
Approachable
Redbreast 12 – Irish Whiskey with a Side of Elegance This single pot still Irish whiskey brings a rich, creamy mouthfeel with notes of honey, nuts, and dried fruit. If you’re used to Jameson but want to upgrade, this is your move.
Affordable
Maker’s Mark – Wheated Bourbon for a Smooth Start ” A soft, sweet bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice. The absence of rye in the mash bill makes it ultra-smooth, making it a perfect beginner bourbon.
Layered
Glenmorangie 10 – A Light, Approachable Scotch AIf you’re new to Scotch whisky, Glenmorangie 10 is a perfect gateway. With honey, citrus, and a creamy vanilla finish, it offers complexity without peat or smoke, making it a great first step into single malts.
Enjoyable
Wild Turkey 101 – Bold Flavor, Easy Price For those ready to embrace a higher-proof bourbon, Wild Turkey 101 is a fantastic option. It brings rich caramel, vanilla, spice, and a bold kick, but remains surprisingly smooth for its proof.
How Whiskey Found Me: A Journey from a “Medicinal Dose” to a Passion
BY BRIAN BAILIE
Whiskey has a way of finding people at just the right time. Some are born into it, others stumble upon it. Me? You could say whiskey and I have had a long, complicated relationship—one that started with a medicinal dose at the most magical place on earth.
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The First Sip: Walt Disney World, Age 5 My grandfather was a man who enjoyed his brown liquor. He wasn’t a collector, a connoisseur, or a snob about it—he just appreciated a good pour. And when my family ventured off into the wonderland of Walt Disney World, leaving me in his care, he did what any responsible grandparent would do—he gave me a sip of whiskey to help me sleep. Now, some might call that questionable childcare, but I call it an introduction to the spirit that would eventually find its way back into my life.
Of course, at five years old, I wasn’t exactly dissecting tasting notes. It was strong, it burned, and I drifted off without a second thought. My whiskey journey, for the time being, had ended.
Round Two: College Days and Wild Turkey 101 Fast forward to my college years at Virginia Tech, home of the Hokies—fighting gobblers with a reputation for taking down whatever was poured in front of them. At that time, Wild Turkey 101 was the whiskey of choice for many. It was bold, high-proof, and—let’s be honest—not meant to be savored when your main goal was survival.
Shooting back a 101-proof spirit was a rite of passage, but one I didn’t particularly enjoy. My relationship with whiskey was once again put on hold.
The Unexpected Reconnection: Lockdowns and Liquor Stores Then came 2020. COVID shut the world down, but whiskey never stopped flowing. Liquor stores remained open, bartenders became YouTube influencers, and suddenly, we all found ourselves making cocktails at home. At first, whiskey was just another ingredient—mixed, masked, blended into creations that took the edge off of being stuck inside. But over time, something changed. The mixers got lighter, the whiskey became the star, and curiosity took over. One night, sitting on the deck with my wife, I decided to put this curiosity to the test. I picked up three bottles—Bulleit, Woodford Reserve Malt, and Four Roses Small Batch—and asked the question: Do these actually taste different?
The answer, of course, was yes. And just like that, whiskey had me.
From Two Bottles to a 150-Bottle Collection What started as a casual curiosity quickly turned into an obsession. I read everything I could find on whiskey—history, production, tasting techniques, the science behind the spirit. I went from keeping a couple of bottles around to a collection of over 150—enough to pour a 2-ounce dram every night for five years and still not run out. (Yes, I did the math.)
What started as a forced introduction in childhood, a rough experience in college, and an unexpected quarantine hobby turned into something far more—a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship, history, and community surrounding whiskey. The Whiskey Chose Me I wasn’t looking to fall into whiskey, but whiskey found me. It took its time, waited for the right moment, and when I was finally ready, it pulled me in. Now, it’s not just about what’s in the glass. It’s about the stories, the history, the people, and the journey —because like golf, whiskey isn’t about the destination. It’s about the experience, the pursuit of knowledge, and the appreciation of the craft.
So, whether you’re just starting your whiskey journey or already deep into the rabbit hole, remember this: whiskey has a way of choosing you. Pour a glass, sit back, and let the story unfold.
Cheers.
A World of Whiskey: Understanding the Five Legacy Distillers
By Brian Bailie
Whiskey is a global spirit, with different countries crafting their own unique expressions based on history, local ingredients, and distillation traditions. While each style has its own distinct characteristics, they all share one thing in common: a reliance on grain as the foundation of flavor. From the smoky single malts of Scotland to the sweet richness of bourbon, every whiskey tells a story shaped by its ingredients and production methods. Let’s explore the five major whiskey-producing regions— Scotland, Ireland, the United States, Canada, and Japan— and break down what makes each style unique.
Scotch The Spirit of Tradition and Terroir
History: Scotland is home to one of the oldest whiskey traditions in the world, with records of distillation dating back to 1494. Over centuries, Scotland perfected the craft, establishing regional styles and regulations that define Scotch whisky today. The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) enforces strict rules: Scotch must be distilled and aged in Scotland for a minimum of three years in oak casks. Main Grain Used: Scotch whisky is primarily made from malted barley (in single malts) or a mix of barley, wheat, and corn (in blended Scotch! Regional Variations & Common Flavor Notes: Scotland is divided into five whisky-producing regions, each with distinct characteristics::
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Scotch
Highlands – A diverse range of styles, from floral and light to rich and full-bodied. Often features honey, heather, dried fruit, and gentle spice. Notable distilleries: Glenmorangie, Dalmore, Oban. Speyside – The most densely populated whisky region, known for elegant, fruity, and sherried single malts. Classic flavors include apple, pear, honey, caramel, and spice. Notable distilleries: Macallan, Glenlivet, Balvenie . Islay – Famous for heavily peated and smoky whiskies, with notes of sea salt, iodine, and medicinal peat smoke. Notable distilleries: Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin. Lowlands – Known for light, floral, and grassy whiskies, often with notes of citrus, vanilla, and soft oak. This region produces delicate and easy-drinking Scotch, perfect for beginners. Notable distilleries: Auchentoshan, Glenkinchie. Campbeltown – Once a thriving whisky hub, now home to only a few distilleries. Known for rich, oily, maritime- influenced whiskies with notes of brine, dried fruit, smoke, and toffee. Notable distilleries: Springbank, Glen Scotia.
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History: Irish whiskey has a history dating back to the 12th century, when monks introduced distillation techniques to Ireland. By the 19th century, Irish whiskey was the world’s most popular spirit, but the Irish War of Independence, Prohibition in the U.S., and economic struggles led to its decline. In recent decades, the industry has experienced a major revival. Main Grain Used: Irish whiskey is often made from malted and unmalted barley, giving it a distinctive smoothness. Some styles incorporate corn, wheat, or rye in blends. Common Flavor Notes: Triple-distilled for smoothness, often featuring honey, vanilla, toasted grain, orchard fruits, and soft spice. Pot Still Irish Whiskey (e.g., Redbreast) has a richer, creamier texture with notes of spiced fruit, nuts, and oak. Irish The Spirit of Tradition and Terroir
Blended Irish Whiskey (e.g., Jameson, Bushmills) is light, easy-drinking, with vanilla, caramel, and soft malt.
Bourbon America’s Sweet and Bold Whiskey
History: Bourbon is deeply rooted in American history, with distillation dating back to the late 18th century. Farmers in Kentucky and Tennessee began making whiskey with the abundant corn supply, and by the 19th century, bourbon became America’s signature spirit. Main Grain Used: By law, bourbon must contain at least 51% corn, with the remainder typically consisting of rye, wheat, and malted barley. Common Flavor Notes: Corn-heavy mash bills result in a naturally sweet, full- bodied whiskey with flavors of caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, and oak spice.
High-Rye Bourbons (e.g., Four Roses, Bulleit) have a spicier, more peppery character.
Wheated Bourbons (e.g., Weller, Maker’s Mark) are softer and smoother, with flavors of honey, butter, and toffee.
Canadian The Smooth and Versatile Spirit
History: Canadian whisky became popular during Prohibition, when it was smuggled into the U.S. in huge quantities. Canada’s approach to whisky focuses on smoothness and blending, leading to versatile, easy-drinking expressions. Main Grain Used: Primarily corn, but rye is often included—hence the nickname “rye whisky”, even when rye isn’t the dominant grain. Common Flavor Notes: Light-bodied, with notes of caramel, vanilla, baking spices, and soft fruit.
Rye-heavy Canadian whiskies (e.g., Lot 40) have a spicier, peppery kick.
Blended Canadian whiskies (e.g., Crown Royal, Canadian Club) are mellow and slightly sweet.
Japanese Precision and Balance
History: Japanese whisky was heavily influenced by Scotch traditions, with pioneers like Masataka Taketsuru bringing techniques from Scotland in the early 20th century. Japanese distillers focus on craftsmanship, precision, and balance. Main Grain Used: Primarily malted barley, sometimes blended with corn or rice. Common Flavor Notes: Elegant and well-balanced, with notes of floral honey, green apple, light smoke, and oak spice. Some expressions (e.g., Hakushu) have a subtle peatiness, while others (e.g., Yamazaki) lean toward rich fruit and sandalwood.
Blended Japanese whiskies (e.g., Hibiki) focus on harmonious layering of flavors, making them exceptionally smooth and complex.
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Issue 1
February 2025
NEWBIE
CHEERS!
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