There are many variables that determine the character of any given whisk(e)y: the shape of the still, the type of wood barrels used for aging, the local climate of the distillery – the list goes on and on. Therefore, it’s best to taste as many labels as possible in order to determine your preferred brands and flavor profiles. But, there is a lot of terminology on whisk(e)y labels these days. It can make it difficult, at first, to ascertain exactly what’s in the bottle. Below is a listing of common styles and labeling designations to help you understand what you’re actually drinking:
Australian Blended Whiskey
Australian Blended Whiskey must be at least 25% malt, with the remainder being corn and/or millet. They must be aged for at least two years.Australian Malt Whiskey
Australian Malt Whiskey must be 100% malted barley and aged for at least two years.Blended American Whiskey
Blended American Whiskey must contain at least 20% straight whiskey. The rest is bulked out with neutral grain spirit. A small amount of sherry can be added for color and character (but no more than 2.5%). If the blend contains at least 51% straight whiskey, it can be called blended bourbon or blended rye.Blended Grain Scotch Whisky
Blended Grain Scotch Whisky is a blend of single grain Scotch whiskies from multiple distilleries.
Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a blend of single malt Scotch whiskies from multiple distilleries. It is sometimes called “vatted malt.”
Blended Malt Whisky
Blended Malt Whisky combines two or more malt whiskies without the addition of grain spirit.Blended Scotch Whisky
Blended Scotch Whisky is a blend of single malt Scotch whiskies and single grain Scotch whiskies. The spirits usually come from many distilleries, and therefore, the brand name usually will not contain the name of any distillery.Bourbon
Bourbon is an American whiskey distilled from a mash containing at least 51% corn. The mash is often over 75% corn with the remainder of the mashbill being malted barley or rye. However, it must contain no more than 80% corn, or it is considered corn whiskey. Bourbon must be aged a minimum of two years in charred new oak barrels. If aged less than four years, this must be stated on the bottle.Canadian Whisky
Canadian Whisky can be made from rye, wheat, corn , and barley. Most are blends with a high percentage of neutral spirit. No more than 2% can be added flavorings. Canadian whiskies must be aged in barrel for a minimum of three years. They are usually lighter and smoother than other styles of whisky.Corn Whiskey
Corn Whiskey is produced in the United States from at least 80% corn. By law, it does not have to be aged. However, if aged, it must be in uncharred new oak barrels.
