The concept of independent bottling was born out of a desire to provide whisky enthusiasts with more options for trying out spirits from their favorite distilleries, typically with a special twist. These bottlers purchase casks from distilleries and then further age the liquid (often in multiple barrels) before bottling it under their brand. Before branded, […]
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A Case Against Blending Aged Whiskies
Whisky, as we know it today, has undergone countless transformations since its inception. In the early days, the aging process wasn’t given the prominence it holds now. As whisky production techniques evolved, so did the appreciation for age. The maturation process, where whisky interacts with oak barrels, began to be seen not just as a […]
Continue readingPairing Whisky with Indian Food
Whisky and Indian food, at first, might seem like an unlikely pairing. The robust and deep flavors of whisky juxtaposed with the rich, layered tapestry of Indian cuisines can raise eyebrows. However, if one delves deeper, this pairing reveals a symphony of tastes, waiting to be discovered. The key lies in understanding the nuances of […]
Continue readingWhat’s a Mash Filter and How Does It Work?
Central to a whiskey distiller’s toolkit is the mash filter—a modern alternative to the traditional lauter tun. Essentially, a mash filter separates liquid wort from the solid grain material post-mashing. Though relatively newer to the whiskey industry, mash filters have been used in beer production for decades. The Anatomy of the Filter A mash filter […]
Continue readingWhen Whisky Met Motorsports
With the Belgium Grand Prix just around the corner, the pairing of whisky and motorsports might raise an eyebrow. The past, though, does provide an interesting picture. The special bond between whisky and auto racing existed even before the Scottish-born F1 champion David Coulthard partnered with Highland Park on a charitable project. Even well-known companies […]
Continue readingPro Tips to Elevate Your Whisky Photography
“The magic of whisky photography lies not just in capturing the drink but in narrating its history, aroma, and essence,” says professional photographer Lana Sinclair. She believes that art goes beyond just taking a good photograph; it’s about evoking the sensory experience of whisky. Learning to Control Light Light is your best friend when trying […]
Continue readingInnovation Is The New Pulse of American Whiskey
When you fill a glass with the amber liquid and give it a good stir, what exactly do you get to taste? Tradition? Maybe the future, though. If you’ve been paying attention to the American whisky scene, you know that the two work together to create something very thrilling. Exceeding Expectations In a country that, […]
Continue readingThe Common Threads in Fashion and Whisky
There are more similarities between the glamorous world of a fashion show and the world of a well-aged whisky than you may believe. Similar to the wide range of prices in the world of fashion, whisky can range from very inexpensive finds to the pinnacle of luxury. But the more we dig, the more levels […]
Continue readingStop Drinking Whisky Like a Cowboy
Imagine a carefully made bottle of whisky that has been aged for decades, only to have it tragically shot back at it in a flash. Don’t give in to your inner cowboy and take a shot of whisky like water. The famous blender for companies like Whyte & Mackay, Dalmore, and Jura, Richard Paterson, has […]
Continue readingHow a Cask’s Background Influences Your Whisky’s Flavor
Once you immerse yourself in the whisky culture, you’ll learn that oak casks play a crucial role in determining the final flavor profile of your favorite beverage. Sure, the basics are grains, water, and yeast. That crystal-pure liquid is merely a spirit until it spends at least three years aging in an oak cask. The […]
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