One of the world’s greatest liquors – whiskey – has been enjoyed by millions of people for centuries. You, too, can join the ranks of Frank Sinatra, Mark Twain, Sir Winston Churchill, George Bernard Shaw, and David Beckham via the common thread of this remarkably smooth, tasteful, rich, and full-bodied liquor.
One of the most enjoyable things about whiskey is that there are so many different styles and ways to enjoy it… including our favorite, coconut whiskey. You don’t need to drink the same way as everyone else. You can if you want to, but you don’t have to. Whiskey embodies the peak of individualism. You can go your own way and find what truly suits you.
As incredible as it is that you can drink the same style of whiskey that your father drank or that Humphrey Bogart loved, it may be even more epic to branch out on your own and find the truly unique whiskey style that is perfect for you. It’s the one that you can order as your go-to, the one your friends will always associate with you, the one that’s yours.
To take advantage of whiskey’s legendary history and make it your own, you need to find your own unique style. One of the first steps in this journey is understanding what’s out there.
The Different Types of Whiskey
A good starting point is to look at the different types of whiskey (sometimes spelled “whisky,” depending on the country). While whiskey is made all over the world, there are certain regions that have unique styles and long histories: Scotland, Ireland, the United States, Canada, and Japan.
Each country has its own processes and regulations associated with their type of hard liquor. You’ll want to get an idea of the different styles of whiskey produced in each area and their tastes.
For instance, whiskey made in Scotland (often called “Scotch whisky” or “scotch”) is primarily malted barley, along with other grains, corn, and wheat. It is available as a single-malt, blended malt, blended whiskey, or single-grain. The taste varies depending on the type and the region, but scotch tends to have a strong character and is often considered an acquired taste. You may have to get used to it, but eventually you will appreciate its varied flavors.
Irish whiskey shares similarities with Scotch, but is typically smoother. Some people might find it “easier” to drink. It also tends to be less smoky than Scottish whiskey.
Japan is a relative newcomer to the whiskey scene, having produced whiskey for about a hundred years. Japanese whiskey has evolved to have its own character. Initially based on Scotch whiskey, Japanese whiskey is now available in many different styles and tastes, ranging from fruity and floral to drier and smokier.
Canadian whiskey is typically lighter and smoother than most other whiskey styles. While often called “rye whisky,” Canadian whiskey is usually distilled from corn. Canada has more relaxed whiskey rules than most other nations, which means there are many different styles. However, most Canadian whiskey in general tends to be sweeter than that produced in other nations.
There are many different and truly iconic whiskeys produced in the United States. Bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, and rye are three of the most prominent types. Bourbon has a sweetness with flavors of caramel and smoke. Tennessee whiskey is a bit mellower, while rye is less sweet and a bit spicier.
Finding the Right Whiskey Style for You
One of the true beauties of whiskey is that, even among whiskeys from the same region, there are many varied and unique tastes and flavor profiles. From more traditional single-malt and blended whiskies to exciting and modern flavored whiskey choices like coconut whiskey, the profiles and possibilities seem endless. The variety of choices lets you experiment with different styles to find the one perfect for you.
An obvious place to start is with tasting. You won’t know what you like until you try it. Sample as many whiskeys as you can, whether that means buying a few different bottles or heading to a whiskey bar. When you’re tasting, pay attention to the flavor and the smell. How do you feel when drinking? What flavors do you notice? What do you like or dislike?
Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. Make a cocktail or drink it neat or on the rocks. Mix things up. Trying different styles and drinks is the key to determining what you truly enjoy.
Once you’ve tried a few options, think about which flavors appeal to you the most. What did you enjoy drinking? Some people prefer sweeter flavors, while others want something smoky. Your whiskey should be unique to you. It won’t necessarily be what your friends drink or what you’ve seen others enjoy. Your whiskey journey will be your own – unlike anyone else’s.
One of the best parts of drinking whiskey in this day and age is that there are more options than ever before. If your tastebuds crave something different, and you want to forge a unique path for yourself, consider an infused whiskey or flavored whiskey. These blend traditional and modern flavors together to create a flavor profile unlike anything you’ve ever had.
For instance, Watertown Whiskey is a premium, locally-sourced, aged whiskey with coconut flavoring for a tropical twist that is truly special and impossible to describe completely or explain in words. You’ll just have to try it yourself. Shake things up with some truly legendary Watertown Whiskey recipes, and make this your new trademark style. Shoot it. Sip it. Mix it. Whatever your style is, Watertown Whiskey tastes amazing no matter how you shake it.
