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Which whisky is superior?

03/12/2025 Spirits
Which whisky is superior?

Scottish, Irish, Japanese, American…? Whisky or whiskey? It doesn't matter: this distilled spirit is the king of grains and one of the most highly esteemed beverages in the world. Exploring whisky is to discover a universe of aromas and flavours. Are you ready to get acquainted with it?

Whisky, “water of life”

Originating in Ireland, where the Celts were already distilling barley and rye, whisky was regarded as a divine gift capable of comforting the harshest winters. Its Gaelic name, uisge beatha, literally means “water of life”. Although first mentioned in 1405, monks had been distilling it since the 12th century, and it soon crossed over to Scotland, where it would reach its pinnacle.

Malting: the soul of whisky

Every whisky begins with a grain that awakens with heat and moisture during malting, a crucial process. The grains germinate in a controlled environment, and the starch transforms into sugar, ready for the yeast to work its magic. Then comes the drying, sometimes with peat, a combustible plant material that imparts those smoky nuances so cherished by many. After grinding the malted grain, it is mixed with water; what seemed simple becomes liquid alchemy, ready to ferment, be distilled, and age in barrels, where time, wood, and climate complete the story.

Scotland, where water works wonders

Although Ireland is the birthplace, Scotland is where whisky found its ideal home. Its low temperatures allow for long and refined aging, and the local pure water is essential to the product's quality. The Scottish phrase “today’s rains, tomorrow’s whisky” reflects the importance of water in its production. During aging, a portion of the whisky evaporates —the famous “angel’s share”—, a divine tribute ensuring that the liquid reaching the bottle is simply extraordinary.

Whisky or whiskey, which to choose?

The “e” distinguishes Irish and American whiskey from Scottish, Japanese, or Indian whisky, but beyond the spelling, what matters is what the bottle holds: a world of aromas, flavours, stories, and emotions.

Which whisky is best?

In Scotland, single malt is made only with water, barley, and yeast from a single distillery. Each region contributes its character: Islay, Skye and Orkney offer smoky and deep notes; Speyside and Lowland provide smooth, sweet, and fruity malt. Blended whiskies combine malt whiskies from different distilleries or malt and grain whiskies (corn, wheat…) for a lighter and more approachable profile, perfect for those seeking an easy-drinking whisky, yet full of charm.

Ireland typically distills its whiskeys three times. The triple distillation results in a whiskey that is lighter and more elegant, easy to drink and perfect for cocktails. Japan, inspired by Scotland, surprises with its fruity and spicy nuances, and with some hints of peat reminiscent of Islay whiskies. In the United States, bourbon, with its corn sweetness, becomes warm and rounded, a hug in every sip.

Whisk(e)y and the cereal revolution

This sophisticated spirit continues to evolve: distilleries in over 20 countries are experimenting with unusual grains, barrels with different treatments, and innovative styles. Each bottle tells its own story, ready to captivate those daring enough to try it.

So, which whisky is best?

There is no definitive answer. As the American writer Raymond Chandler said: “There is no bad whisky, only whiskies that aren’t as good as others”. What matters is your palate, your curiosity, the moment, and the story you choose to drink. Each sip is a journey, and the choice of whisky depends solely on where you wish it to take you.

Silvia

Silvia Arellano

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