When one thinks of whiskey, the first two countries that come to mind are Ireland and the United States. And while both of these countries produce some mighty fine whiskeys, there are some distinct differences between Irish and American whiskeys. Let’s take a closer look at these differences and see which country produces the better whiskey.
What is Irish Whiskey?
Irish whiskey is a type of whiskey that is distilled in Ireland. Irish whiskey is made from a blend of grains, including barley, corn, and rye. Irish whiskey must be aged in wooden barrels for at least three years. Irish whiskey is distinct from other types of whiskey due to its distinctive flavor profile. Irish whiskey is typically smooth and sweet with notes of vanilla and caramel. Irish whiskey is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Irish whiskey can also be used in cocktails such as Irish Coffee or Whiskey Sour.
What is American Whiskey?
American whiskey is a type of distilled spirit that is made from grain mash and aged in oak barrels. It can be made from any type of grain, but the most common types are corn, rye, and wheat. American whiskey is typically less sweet and smoky than other types of whiskey, such as Scotch or Irish whiskey. The flavor of American whiskey also depends on the aging process, which can range from a few months to several years. American whiskey is a popular choice for mixed drinks and cocktails, such as the Manhattan or the Old Fashioned. It can also be enjoyed on its own or with a splash of water or ice.
Differences between Irish Whiskey and American Whiskey
Irish whiskey and American whiskey are both distilled from grain, but there are a few key differences between the two. Irish whiskey is typically made from a blend of barley, corn, and rye, while American whiskey is usually just made from corn. Irish whiskey is also distilled three times, while American whiskey is only distilled once. The extra distillation step gives Irish whiskey a lighter flavor with less of a burn. Irish whiskey is also aged in oak barrels for at least three years, while American whiskey can be aged for as little as two years. As a result of these differences, Irish whiskey has a smoother taste that is more suited for sipping, while American whiskey is better for mixing in cocktails.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that Irish whiskey and American whiskey are both made with grain, but the two types of whiskeys have different flavor profiles because of the way they are distilled and aged. If you’re looking for a smooth, mellow whiskey with notes of vanilla and caramel, you should try an Irish whiskey. If you want something with more complexity and a smokier flavor profile, go for an American whiskey.
