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Having been labelled one of the oldest and most distinguished spirits in the world, whiskey is a popular drink of choice for many. And while everyone’s palate is different, there are arguably certain characteristics/qualities that go into making a great tasting whiskey.
Its quality depends on a few key factors, such as its ingredients, production process, and aging. All of these details influence the flavor of whiskey and how it’s ultimately enjoyed.
When it comes to high quality whiskey, it all starts with the raw materials used to make it.
Generally speaking, whiskey should be made from malted barley, rye grain or wheat grain. The grains are first milled into a coarse flour then mixed with water before being fermented into alcohol.
This mixture is then distilled until it reaches its desired strength – typically between 40-50% ABV (alcohol by volume). The distiller will then select which type of barrel to age their whiskey in for several months to years depending on its style; this will also have an effect on the taste profile of the final product.
The aging process is what truly sets high quality whiskeys apart from others; this is because aging can bring out subtle flavors that wouldn’t otherwise be present if left unaged at full strength.
Typically, whiskeys are aged in either oak barrels or stainless steel tanks; each type gives off different flavor notes due to how porous they are and how much oxygen they allow through during maturation. Oak barrels tend to give off more sweetness while stainless steel tanks provide sharper flavors with less overall complexity than wood-aged whiskies do.
After aging for several months or years depending on its style, high quality whiskeys should have a distinct taste profile that reflects its unique ingredients and production method. Each batch will have slightly different characteristics due to natural variations that occur during fermentation and distillation processes – no two bottles are exactly alike.
Commonly described notes include caramelized sugars, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, smokey undertones from charring/oak barrels used during maturation period(s), as well as fruity essences like cherry or apple depending on where/how long they were aged for outside of traditional oak barrels (i.e., sherry casks).
High quality whiskeys can be enjoyed neat with just ice cubes (or “on the rocks”) but many enthusiasts use mixers such as cola or ginger ale for a sweeter tasting experience; adding citrus fruits like lemon juice or grapefruit juice can also help balance out any harshness that may arise from higher proof spirits.
Ultimately though it’s up to personal preference when deciding how best enjoy your favorite bottle.
That being said, the YouTube channel Stuff & Whiskey has put together what they believe is the best whiskeys of 2023 so far. Take a look and decide for yourself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFeeBNtaOU4
