Once you’ve entered the world of whiskey, there’s no turning back! Whether you’re looking for a fine American bourbon or a traditional Scotch, nothing else can quite satisfy the craving. Luckily, the world has quite a variety of whiskeys to discover. Plus, different countries take unique approaches to making their whiskey (or whisky, depending on where the drink is from!), even when it’s a popular variety. That’s why, in honour of International Whiskey Day on 27 March, Expat Explore has rounded up our favourite whiskeys from around the world!
Read on to learn more about the whiskey variations across different countries. And be sure to try a sip or two for yourself when you visit these highly recommended destinations.
Discover the world’s best whiskey this International Whisky Day:
Irish Whiskey
Dating back as far as the 12th century, Irish whiskey was one of the earliest distilled beverages in Europe! And much like with other forms of whiskey and even the iconic Champagne from France, it can only be called Irish whiskey if it was made on the island of Ireland. How can you tell if it was? Well, Irish whiskey is known for having a smoother flavour thanks to the malted barley used in its production.
Historically, Irish whiskey used to be the most popular drink in the world. However, a great decline left the Irish whiskey industry with few distilleries and a production monopoly. Lately, the Irish whiskey trade has seen an increase, with new distilleries opening regularly.
Related: Discover what avid travellers loved about Ireland!
Scotch Whisky
Similar to Irish whiskey, Scotch whisky (or just Scotch, as it’s called) can only be made in Scotland. The Scottish take their whisky so seriously that the government has put laws in place for distilleries to follow! For one, the whisky has to be aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Then, once bottled, the label has to clearly state the age of the youngest whisky used in the blend.
Made from malt and water, Scotch has a distinctly smooth taste with hints of vanilla to cut through the often sharp undertone. This golden-amber liquid is best served neat and makes the perfect nightcap after dinner.
Related: Explore the top Scottish events and festivals while you visit!
Canadian Whisky
Canada is mostly known for making blended whisky from a variety of grains, rye and corn. The inclusion of corn, specifically, gives Canadian whisky its distinctly smooth and light taste and colour. Much like others, Canadian whisky also has to be aged in barrels for at least three years.
Similar to other types, Canadian whisky also has a few requirements to meet before it’s truly considered Canadian whisky. First, it has to be made in Canada (granted). Then, it must be made of some sort of cereal grain. Finally, it has to be aged for the correct amount of time and must be 40% ABV.
Related: Spend time in Canada on our Eastern USA & Canada Escape tour!
Japanese Whisky
While you might not generally associate whisky with Japan, the country has been producing it successfully since as far back as 1870. Since then, the whisky production style has evolved into one heavily influenced by Scotch techniques.
The key that makes Japanese whisky distinct from Scotch is that the Japanese variant is less peated than the Scottish, meaning it will likely have a less smokey flavour. However, as of 2024, Japanese whisky must adhere to newly introduced regulations. For example, malted grain must always be used, only water extracted in Japan may be used, and the spirit must be aged for no less than three years.
Related: Travel to Japan in spring for spectacular sights!
Rye Whiskey
The next whiskey entry is not quite representative of a country. Rye whiskey is a form of whiskey made from at least 51% rye, as opposed to other forms made from malt or corn. While rye whiskey is widely popular in America, that doesn’t mean it’s the only place where it’s allowed to be made.
Unlike bourbon which can only be made in America, rye whiskey is also made in countries like Germany and the Netherlands as well as across Nordic Europe. These countries might not be the heavyweight whiskey producers throughout the rest of this list but what they lack in size, they make up for in spirit! No pun intended. Some German distilleries are starting to produce whiskey comparable to the world’s best.
Related: Europe also has a few iconic destinations for beer drinkers to visit!
American Bourbon
Last but certainly not least on our list is the iconic bourbon whiskey from the USA, popularised by film and television. Unlike many other whiskeys (even on this list), American bourbon is made using corn, giving it the distinct sweetness that separates it from other whiskeys. For a spirit to qualify as a bourbon, it must be made in America using at least 51% corn.
While there is no minimum ageing requirement, bourbon must be bottled at 40% ABV or more (or as the Americans call it, 80 proof). Bourbon also has a unique taste, thanks to the corn used and the ageing barrel’s char. Look out for hints of vanilla and caramel notes as you savour a sip of bourbon neat.
Related: Make the most of your visit with the top American events and festivals!
Now that you’ve learned all about the world’s different whiskeys, all you have to do is try them! Visit all of the must-see destinations on this list by joining Expat Explore on one of our single or multi-country guided tours!
Simply book a tour to the destinations of your dreams, and get ready to savour every sip of one of the world’s favourite spirits this International Whisky Day.