Whiskey is a general term for distilled spirits made from fermented grain typically aged in wooden containers. The word can be spelled as ‘whiskey’ or ‘whisky’ depending on the country of origin. The origin of whiskey dates back to around 1000-1200 AD when the concept of distillation migrated from mainland Europe into Scotland and Wales via travelling monks. Because there were no vineyards to supply the grapes needed to make wine, these monks turned to fermenting grain mash.
All types of whiskey start as raw grain. Before this grain can be fermented, the sugars have to be extracted. This is done through mashing. The distiller takes the grains and puts them in a large tank filled with hot water. This mixture is then agitated, which results in a porridge consistency known as mash or wort. Once as much sugar as possible has been removed, the grain may now be fermented. Fermentation occurs when yeast is added to mash or wort, which converts the remaining sugars into alcohol. In total, this process takes 48 - 96 hours. This mixture is then transferred to a copper still used for distillation.
The most common types of stills used for distillation are pot stills and column stills. Pot distillation is a batch process commonly used with malt whisky, while column stills are usually used to produce bourbon, rye, and other American whiskeys. They work continuously in order to remove the need for a batch process.
One of the qualifying attributes of whiskey is that it has to be aged in wood, usually oak, containers. The main exception to this is corn whiskey, which can be produced either aged or unaged. Certain varieties have specific regulations for the ageing process, such as bourbon and rye. These wood barrels are stored in warehouses and left to mature. Whiskies such as Scotch have a required minimum time that it must be aged for.
Whiskeys differ depending on their country and/or region of origin.
Irish whiskey is a smooth variation made exclusively in Ireland from a mash of malt and is distilled using water and caramel coloring.
Scotch whisky, or Scotch, is made in Scotland using either malt or grain and the spirit must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. If you’re looking for a good Single Malt whisky there’s an excellent choice in Glengoyne whisky and Tamdhu whisky. Our whisky selections are available for delivery for our wholesale, corporate, and B2B customers.
Canadian and Japanese whiskies are similar to Scotch. Japanese whisky is made to taste as close to Scotch as possible and like Scotch, Canadian whisky must be barrel-aged for three years. Fireball is one such Canadian whiskey and is a unique choice that tastes like cinnamon.
Bourbon is an American-style whiskey made primarily from corn.
Rye whiskey is another American-style whiskey made with at least 51% rye.
Ambrose Wines and Spirits has a wide range of whiskeys on offer from all around the world. You can get a whiskey delivery to your home in Bangkok or the rest of Thailand by ordering from our wide selection of spirits and alcohol. We offer both wholesale spirits and direct to consumers services. You’ll find Fireball Whisky, Glengoyne Single Malt Whisky, Tamdhu whisky, and many more. Why not celebrate your latest achievements with a special whisky delivery in Thailand! Get in touch with us today to place your order.