Variations on Whiskey- A Diverse Tasting Event

What makes one whiskey so different from another? Is there really as much variety in whiskey as there is in beer? Yes.

I’ve been playing with the idea of hosting a tasting like this for a while. I want to showcase the very large differences that exist from one whisk(e)y to the next. The common perception is that all whiskey is the same – some good, some very good. In this tasting, we will explore the idea that whiskey is just as diverse a product (if not, more so) as beer or wine.

In fact, whiskey is made from fermented grains – also known as beer. The foundation of whiskey can be as varied as India Pale Ale or Stout and the final product more so. I often say “whiskey is what beer wants to be when it grows up.” From its beer roots, whiskey variety explodes into tastes that can be bold, subtle, sophisticated, nuanced and surprising.

Whiskey can be made from any grain. It can be blended, flavored, cut with rock candy, aged for varying lengths of time in barrels made from different types of white oak with different char levels, finished in various types of previously used casks, and bottled from single barrels, small batches or large vats. It can be filtered or unfiltered, diluted with either water or other grain spirits (but not below 40% ABV), made anywhere in the world in different climates and at different elevations and can be influenced by many types of yeast strains. The diversity that exists in whiskey is only limited by the fact that it must be made from grain and/or by the creativity of the distiller.

Let’s explore some interesting whiskeys that are vastly different from one another. We will be focusing mainly on the variety that comes from distilling and aging techniques over additives, flavorings or blends (at least this time!). Join the Dram Devotees of Bucks County to dissect 6 very different whisk(e)ys! There will be raffles and give-aways, including golf course gift cards, tavern discounts, glassware, etc. and small bites, to boot. Hang out after the tasting for cigars on the porch!

1. Alberta Rye Whisky Dark Batch

2. Charbay R5 Hop Flavored Whiskey

3. Glenlivet Nadurra Single Malt Scotch Whisky

4. Eagle Rare Bourbon Whiskey

5. Brenne French Single Malt Whisky

6. Laphroaig Single Malt Scotch Whisky