Whiskey Tasting with the Whiskey Cabinet
September 19, 2022
Michelle from the Whiskey Cabinet joined us to talk about Whiskey.
Scotch vs Whiskey, what’s the difference? - Scotch is whisky but the reason it is called Scotch is basically geographical. If you're in England or Scotland and order a whiskey you’ll most likely get Scotch. If you’re in Ireland, you’ll get Irish whiskey. And if you’re anywhere else in the world, you’ll get asked what you want.
What is the difference between Scotch and Irish Whiskey? Scotch is made from malted barley and water, while Irish whiskey comes from a sour mash of malted cereal grains such as corn, barley and wheat. Scotch whisky and Irish whiskey also differ in the distillation process. Scotch is distilled twice and Irish whiskey is distilled three times. This extra distillation gives Irish whiskey a smoother finish. They are also matured differently. By Irish law, all whiskeys must be aged a minimum of three years in oak barrels. Most distilleries use charred oak casks that have previously held bourbon, which gives Irish whiskey its signature mellow sweetness. Scotch whisky, including blended malt whisky, must mature for three years and one day. However, many distilleries on both sides of the Irish Sea mature for longer, preferring to wait until their product has the perfect taste profile.
We sampled the following:
1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
The Glenlivet 12 Illicit Still Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey
Penderyn Single Malt Welsh Whiskey
Tasting Notes:
1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
“1792 Small Batch Bourbon is sophisticated and complex. A distinctly different bourbon created with precise craftsmanship. Made from our signature “high rye” recipe and the marriage of select barrels carefully chosen by our Master Distiller. 1792 Bourbon has an expressive and elegant flavor profile. Unmistakable spice mingles with sweet caramel and vanilla to create a bourbon that is incomparably brash and bold, yet smooth and balanced. Elevating whiskey to exceptional new heights, 1792 Bourbon is celebrated by connoisseurs worldwide.”
The Glenlivet 12 Illicit Still Single Malt Scotch Whisky
“Inspired by our origins and how our liquid was first crafted in the early 1800s, The Glenlivet Illicit Still is a limited edition whisky that has not been chill filtered for an authentic taste.” Matured in European & American Barrels, Bright, vibrant gold with Rich, fruity notes of peaches in syrup, poached pears and soft caramel. Exceptionally long, sweet and smooth finish with tropical, fresh and summery aromas with ripe pineapple, vanilla fudge and coconut on the nose.
The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey
“The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey is inspired by the long tradition of whiskey making on the North Coast of Ireland and consciously aged for four years in former Sherry butts to achieve a depth of flavor from the wine-imbued barrel that surpasses its years. Unexpected for a young single malt, The Sexton offers a perfect balance of rich, dried fruits and subtle oak notes, with a smooth finish that leaves you wanting more.”
Penderyn Single Malt Welsh Whiskey
“Penderyn Single Malt is finished in ex-Madeira wine casks to enhance its character. It has a crisp and rounded palate that balances out its sweet and dry qualities. You may experience notes of tropical fruit, raisins and vanilla.”