With hundreds of bottles choices, navigating the array of types of whiskey can be perplexing. Do you know what distinguishes Irish whiskey from Scotch whisky? How about choosing the perfect bottle for your preferred mixed beverages? Gain a grasp of the distinctions between the most popular whiskey varieties around the world. See our large selection of whiskeys available at Rollers Wine & Spirits

1. Canadian Whisky

Canadian whisky must undergo a minimum three-year aging process in barrels. Its characteristically lighter and smoother in profile compared to other whiskey varieties, resulting from its high corn content. Canadian whiskies typically use corn and rye as primary ingredients, although some may also incorporate wheat or barley.

2. Scotch Whisky

Scotch whisky, often referred to simply as "scotch," is produced in Scotland using either malt or grain. The Scots have a deep-rooted commitment to the craft of whisky production and enforce regulations that distillers must adhere to. One of these requirements is that the spirit must mature in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Furthermore, every bottle of scotch must display an age statement, indicating the youngest whisky used in the blend. Scotch whisky is divided into five distinct categories: single malt, single grain, blended malt blended grain, and blended. All scotches contain a malty flavor since malted barley is the primary component. Kilning with peat gives scotch a distinct smokey flavor. This is a whisky meant for savoring without any additives—it serves as an exceptional choice for a post-dinner drink. 

3. Rye Whisky

In the United States, rye whiskey is crafted using a minimum of 51% rye, with corn and barley as additional components. Its production closely follows the distillation process of bourbon. When rye whiskey has matured for two years or longer and remains unblended, it earns the designation of "straight rye whiskey." Rye whiskey typically exhibits a spicier flavor profile compared to the sweeter and smoother taste of bourbon.

4. Tennessee Whisky

Although Tennessee whiskey falls under the technical classification of bourbon, certain distillers in the state prefer to distinguish their product as Tennessee whiskey. According to state regulations, all present-day Tennessee whiskey producers must craft their whiskeys within the boundaries of Tennessee and employ a specific filtration method called the Lincoln County Process before allowing the whiskey to age. Typically, Tennessee whiskey is described as being sweeter and smoother than bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla and brown sugar. 

5. Irish Whisky

Irish whiskey is known for its smooth taste. It is produced from a malt-based mash, exclusively distilled using water and caramel coloring, and mandated to mature in wooden casks for a minimum of three years. This results in a whiskey that is exceptionally enjoyable when sipped straight or with ice, although it can also be used as a key ingredient in various cocktails.

6. Blended Whisky

Blended whiskey lives up to its name as it consists of a blend of various whiskey types, along with colorings, flavors, and occasionally other grains. These whiskey varieties are well-suited for cocktails since the blending process retains the flavor while keeping the price of the spirit more affordable.

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