Prohibition and Excise Taxes The temperance movement and Prohibition era in the USA (1920-1933) left a significant imprint on the American alcoholic beverage industry. Spirits, including whisky and gin, were targeted due to their higher alcohol content and the perceived societal harm they could cause. Thus, post-Prohibition, the higher taxation rates for spirits as compared […]
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The Story Behind Indie Bottlers
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 […]
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Pairing 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 […]
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What’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 […]
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Designing the Modern Whisky Distillery
Functional Flow At the heart of any whisky distillery, modern or traditional, is the process flow. A smooth transition from grain intake to mashing, fermentation, distillation, and finally maturation, ensures efficiency. In the contemporary distillery, every square foot counts. Silos for grain storage must be strategically placed for easy unloading. Mash tuns, washbacks, and stills […]
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Why Young Scotch Whisky Deserves Your Attention
Breaking the Age-Old Stereotype A prevalent notion exists in the world of spirits that older equals superior, especially when it comes to Scotch whisky. As connoisseurs swear by aged expressions, young Scotch often remains in the shadows. But contrary to popular belief, young Scotch whisky packs a punch of its own, offering a unique palate […]
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The Intricacies Of Canada’s Liquor Laws
The Aftermath of Prohibition on Canada’s Drinking Culture The Prohibition-era raids on British Columbia pubs earlier this month brought the country’s complex alcohol regulations into sharp focus. The distribution and purchase of alcohol in Canada’s 10 provinces and 3 territories is governed by a complicated web of regulations overseen by 13 separate authorities. These rulebooks […]
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When 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 […]
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Pro 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 […]
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