Scotch whisky is primarily made from malted barley, which is a type of barley that has been soaked in water, allowed to germinate, and then dried using hot air. This process activates enzymes in the barley that convert starches into fermentable sugars, which are then fermented by yeast to produce alcohol.
Barley is a versatile grain that has been used in the production of whisky for centuries. It is well-suited for whisky production due to its high starch content and its ability to convert those starches into sugars. The malted barley used in Scotch whisky production is typically dried using peat smoke, which imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the spirit.
In contrast, Bourbon, which is a type of American whiskey, is primarily made from corn. The use of corn gives Bourbon a sweeter and smoother flavor profile compared to Scotch whisky. While malted barley is still used in the production of Bourbon, it is typically used in smaller quantities and is often combined with other grains such as corn and rye.
When it comes to Scotch whisky, there are two main types: single malt and single grain. Single malt Scotch is made exclusively from malted barley, water, and yeast at a single distillery. This means that all the ingredients used in the production of single malt Scotch come from the same distillery.
On the other hand, single grain Scotch is also produced by a single distillery, but it may contain other whole grains in addition to malted barley. These other grains can include corn, wheat, and rye. The inclusion of other grains in the production of single grain Scotch allows for a wider range of flavor profiles and characteristics.
Personal experience: As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate a wide variety of Scotch whiskies. Each whisky has its own unique flavor profile, which is influenced by factors such as the type of barley used, the water source, and the aging process. The use of malted barley in Scotch whisky production gives it a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other types of whiskey. The combination of malted barley, water, and yeast creates a complex and nuanced spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails.