Countries that make Whisky

When it comes to whisky, only a select few countries have a reputation for quality and quantity of production.  Many can boast a modest effort, but in truth are mere epigones of the whisky aristocracy, Scotland, Ireland and the US.

Scotland 

Scotland is the breeding ground for many brands of whisky, with its “single-malt” being its most prodigious.  Indeed, it is illegal – under international law - to brand whisky as “scotch” unless it is distilled and matured in Scotland.  This has much to do with the unique variables which are distinct to the regions of Scotland - including air and water – which cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world. 

Scotland has an unrivalled reputation for single-malt whisky, but by definition, single-malt whiskies may only be produced at one distillery.  This means that there are as many as 90 distilleries in Scotland, many dedicated to their own single-malt interpretation, with many others concentrating on blends.

Ireland 

The Irish spell whiskey with an “e” and its native meaning is the “water of life”.  There are currently only four distilleries in Ireland, due – in part – to mergers and closures in the past few years, but also because each distillery produces a lot of blends, which require a mixture of different whiskeys to be on hand.  There are also a couple of independently owned whisky brands – such as Tullamore Due and The Irishman – which produce single-malts.

The New Midleton Distillery in Cork produces most of the popular Irish blends, including Powers, Paddy and Jameson, whilst the Old Bushmills distillery in the north of the island concentrates on single-malts, although these aren’t as specific as the ones produced in Scotland.

USA 

America was still in its infancy when whisky production was in full swing in Scotland and Ireland.  However, as the Scots and Irish immigrated to America for a better life, many took with them the skills and knowledge of whisky production.  Over the years, they have developed their own methods and ideas about whisky, to a point where there is little to compare between American whisky and those indigenous to Scotland and Ireland.  One exceptional difference is how Americans dry the corn without smoke, which complements its sweeter texture.

Buffalo Trace Distillery – in Kentucky - produces various brands of bourbon, including Can Winkle and Eagle Rare.  Bourbon may be produced anywhere in the United States, but Tennessee whisky must be produce in that state.  Jack Daniels – possibly the most famous American whisky – is a Tennessee whisky and has its own distillery in that state.

Australia 

Tasmania is fast becoming synonymous with whisky production, with its specialization in single-malt whisky especially.  It is believed that the state’s climatic conditions – the barley and the exceptionally clean water – are perfect to rival its peers in the most traditional areas.  Two distilleries in particular – Lark and Tasmania - have received high recognition for their whiskies, which means Australia may be about to mount a serious challenge to the aristocracy.