The popularity of whisky has increased. According to data provided by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, revenues from the sale and production of bourbon – “America’s Native Spirit,” as it is called – have increased significantly over the last few years. The popularity of rye, Irish whisky, and Scotch has also increased.
There are many ways to drink distilled spirits. Several methods involve personal taste, like food, wine, fashion, or anything else. You can drink distilled spirits in several ways, depending on your taste and preference.
Travel + Leisure spoke to Russell Greene, bar supervisor and tobacconist (barkeep is also acceptable) at Castle Hot Springs, Morristown, Arizona. He brings years of expertise to his role in the resort’s Bar 1896.
He said: “I thought whisky would die out in a few short years. But our culture has embraced and brought it to its origin home.” “Now, I see people of all ages looking at the whisky shelves, and distilleries have popped up everywhere.”
We talked about his usual whisky serving style and any trends he noticed. Greene stated that younger drinkers tend to request cocktails, while the older crowd prefers whisky neat or on ice. Greene said that while many younger guests are willing to try whiskies, there are fewer due to the time required to develop a palate for whisky or spirits.
According to Greene and other sources, the Old Fashioned is the most famous whisky cocktail. He told T+L that “everyone loves an Old Fashioned,” and it’s the most popular drink here. Both classic cocktails feature whisky as the main ingredient with minimal other ingredients.
The whisky is then ready to be consumed “neat” without a mixer or ice. A two-ounce portion of whisky served neat is typically room temperature in a lowball. A few drops of water will enhance the aromas and soften the finish.
Frozen water has become a popular alternative to ice when drinking whisky. Whisky glasses are adorned with large, clear ice cubes or even giant spheres. These ice cubes and spheres have a pleasing appearance but a slower melting rate, making them less diluting. The cold whisky may sacrifice some flavor, but it will also soften the edge. The best way to enjoy whisky is by sipping it slowly. Whisky is a spirit that is made from grains that have been mashed and fermented before being distilled.
Whisky can be produced anywhere globally with all the necessary ingredients and equipment. However, certain types of whisky must follow specific rules and laws to qualify for a particular definition. As you might have noticed, geography plays a part in how you spell words.
The majority of countries like Scotland, Japan, and Canada use the spelling “whisky,” while any grain spirit produced in the U.S. or Ireland (with some exceptions) is written as “whiskey.” This spelling difference can be traced back to late 19th-century Ireland when Irish distilleries adopted a different spelling to differentiate their product from their Scottish competitors. The American distilleries followed suit later. To earn the distinctions “bourbon” or “scotch,” there are both legal and geographic requirements.
Bourbon is made in the United States, mainly in Kentucky. It’s aged in barrels of charred oak. Tennessee whiskey is a bourbon that has been filtered with charcoal. Scotch Whisky must be produced in Scotland. Single malt Scotch is made only from malted barley. Canadian whisky is made from barley, wheat, rye, and corn. It must also be aged separately in barrels. The Japanese whisky industry is relatively new, based on a Scottish model. It offers both single malt and blended options. It is a relatively new industry, developed only in the 1920s. However, it has gained a reputation as a high-quality product.
As the popularity of whisky and whiskey has increased, so have distillery tours. Tourists are taking tours of the distilleries where they buy their favorite brands and are interested in how it is done. It’s fascinating to see the distillery equipment and atmosphere, whether you visit a new distillery or an old one in Scotland or Ireland.
Imagine a vacation in the Scottish Highlands inspired by “a wee dram” or Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which includes not only distilleries but also camping, biking paths, golf courses, and restaurants. Ireland has many new distilleries thanks to the Renaissance of Irish whiskey.
Greene shared with us his tips for enjoying whisky at home. He told us that glassware is essential, just as it is for wine, champagne, and cocktails. Greene said he has always enjoyed drinking whisky neat in the Riedel Single-Malt glass. It is made of super fine crystal and features a clean lip. I prefer a large, heavy tumbler with a nice, thick lip on the rocks.
Some people claim that whiskey and cigars are the perfect pair, especially when enjoyed slowly with a beautiful outdoor view and good company. The intensity and flavors of each determine the pairings. Planning can include matching wine to the different courses at dinner. In some resorts and restaurants, Greene can offer advice.
Our suggestions will help you find the perfect way to enjoy whisky.