Whiskey
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Whiskey is another of the more versatile cocktail bases. With so many styles, there is the opportunity for great diversity in flavor profiles. It mixes well with other liquors to create complex drinks, and it pairs well with many fruits, particularly the darker fruits. Warm drinks are also very popular with whiskey.
- Distilled From: Whiskey is distilled from malted grains. It varies by style, but corn, rye, wheat, and barley are common. Many whiskies use a combination of a few grains in the mashbill.
- Flavor Profile: Roasted, malted grain with oak undertones should be expected in any whiskey. There are also distinct characteristics in each style.
- Aged: Whiskey is typically aged in charred oak. Some styles, such as bourbon, require new barrels while others use a mixture of new and previously used whiskey or wine barrels. Moonshine (also called white dog) is the primary exception to aging. Some whiskeys are blended, while others are single malts.
- Produced In: Whiskey is produced throughout the world, and the various styles are often defined by the country or region in which they're produced.
- Styles: Bourbon, Canadian Whisky, Irish Whiskey, Japanese Whisky, Rye Whiskey, Scotch Whisky, Tennessee Whiskey, Blended Whiskey, Flavored Whiskey
- Alcohol Content: Typically 40 to 50 percent ABV (80 to 100 proof) or higher
- Regulations: Most whiskey styles have their own distinct regulations governed by the country of origin. Those simply labeled "whiskey" or "blended whiskey" generally do not fall into a regulated category.
