As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have encountered the spelling differences of whiskey with and without the “e” quite frequently. The spelling “whiskey” with an “e” is commonly used in the United States and Ireland. On the other hand, the spelling “whisky” without an “e” is prevalent in Scotland and Canada, as well as in several other countries.
The spelling variation can be attributed to the historical and cultural differences in the production and naming of the spirit. Whiskey production in the United States and Ireland has its roots in the Irish and Scottish traditions. However, over time, each country developed its own distinct style and spelling.
In the United States, the addition of the “e” to the spelling of whiskey is believed to have been introduced by Irish immigrants. This spelling has become widely adopted and is now the standard in American English. As an American sommelier, I often refer to whiskey as spelled with the “e” by default.
In contrast, Scotland and Canada, known for their renowned whiskies, prefer the spelling “whisky” without the “e.” This spelling is deeply rooted in their traditional whisky production methods and the associated cultural heritage. As a brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit distilleries in Scotland, and it was fascinating to witness the attention to detail and the pride they take in their whisky-making process.
While the spelling difference may seem insignificant, it can be a point of pride and distinction for whiskey producers. The spelling often reflects the unique characteristics and flavor profiles associated with the whisk(e)y produced in each country.
To summarize, the spelling of whiskey without the “e” is commonly used in Scotland, Canada, and several other countries, while the spelling with the “e” is prevalent in the United States and Ireland. These variations stem from historical and cultural differences in the production and naming of the spirit. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the unique traditions and flavors associated with whisk(e)y from different regions, and the spelling difference adds an interesting layer to the overall experience.