As the evenings draw in and autumn settles over the woodland, there is something particularly inviting about finding a cosy spot, settling into a comfortable chair and enjoying a whiskey.
But have you ever wondered why some bottles say whiskey and others say whisky?
The difference is more than just an extra letter. It can tell you something about where the spirit comes from and, often, the flavour profile you can expect.
Whiskey or Whisky?
The simplest place to start is geography.
Whiskey, with an e, is generally used for spirits produced in Ireland and the United States.
Whisky, without the e, is typically used for spirits from Scotland, Canada and Japan.
There are exceptions, of course, but this little spelling distinction is a useful starting point when looking at a whiskey menu.
The word comes from the Irish Gaelige uisce beatha and Scottish Gaelic uisge beatha, meaning “water of life”. Over time, these phrases were shortened and adapted into the word we use today.
So, when you see whiskey or whisky, the spelling can give you a small clue about where the spirit comes from and the tradition behind it
Irish Whiskey
As an Irish hotel, we have a particular appreciation for Irish whiskey.
Irish whiskey is known for its smooth character, although there is plenty of variety within the category. Depending on how it is made and matured, you can find notes ranging from honey, vanilla and dried fruit to spice, oak and richer toasted flavours.
Irish whiskey can be enjoyed neat, over ice or as the base of a classic cocktail.
And if you are new to whiskey, Irish varieties can be a comfortable place to start.
We’re so proud to carry such a wide variety of Irish Whiskeys from Jameson, Powers, Connemara, BlackBush, Tullamore Dew, Paddy, Writers Tears and Redbreast.
Scottish Whisky
Cross the Irish Sea and you enter the world of Scotch whisky.
Scotch can offer a much broader range of flavours, from light and floral expressions to rich, fruity and heavily smoky styles.
Some whiskies, particularly those associated with Scotland's Islay region, are known for their distinctive peaty and smoky character. Others are much lighter and sweeter, making the world of Scotch one that can take plenty of exploring.
Bourbon and American Whiskey
American whiskey brings another style to the table.
Bourbon is made primarily from corn and is often associated with warm notes of vanilla, caramel, oak and spice. It is a particularly enjoyable choice as the weather cools and can be delicious served neat or used in classic cocktails.
Then there is Tennessee whiskey, rye whiskey and a whole range of other American styles, each with its own character.
How to Taste Whiskey
You do not need to be a whiskey expert to enjoy a tasting.
Start by looking at the colour, then take a gentle smell of the whiskey before taking a small sip. Let it sit on your palate for a moment and see what flavours you notice.
Is it sweet? Spicy? Smoky? Fruity? Does the flavour change as you taste it?
There is no right or wrong answer. Tasting is about discovering what you enjoy.
If you are adding a little water, try just a few drops. It can open up the aromas and flavours of some whiskeys, allowing you to notice different characteristics.
The Perfect Autumn Pour
Autumn is made for slower evenings, and there is something wonderfully traditional about enjoying a whiskey as the light fades outside.
In the Glassroom at Cork’s Vienna Woods, settle into the evening with a drink, good company and the warmth of the hotel around you.
Whether you already know your single malt from your bourbon or you are simply curious to try something new, autumn is the perfect time to explore the world of whiskey.
So, whiskey or whisky?
Perhaps the most important question is simply: which one will you try first?