People have been producing and drinking whisky for thousands of years. Irish and Scotch whisky are types of whiskey, so which is better? They’re both delicious in their own right, but this article will explore the differences between the two to help you decide which one you prefer.
If you aren’t sure about which one you like more or want to know more about these spirits before buying a bottle, read on for our ultimate guide to some of the best Irish whiskey vs. Scotch whisky.
What’s the Difference Between Irish and Scotch Whisky?
Like many other types of spirits, Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are fundamentally very similar. However, there are also some critical differences between the two.
Irish and Scotch whisky is made with barley as the primary grain and is filtered through peat. They are both aged in wooden barrels for a few years. They are both made in large distilleries in Ireland and Scotland. And they are both drunk with a little bit of water.
There are, however, some notable differences between Irish and Scotch whisky:
- Irish whisky is produced in Ireland using imported barley and is typically made using a combination of pot stills and column stills. Scotch whisky, on the other hand, is always produced in Scotland and is made almost entirely with column stills.
- Irish whisky is generally lighter and softer than Scotch whisky due to its lower alcohol content. On the other hand, Scotch whisky is usually heavier, smokier, and more robust.
- Due to Ireland’s climate, Irish whisky is often made with a bit of peat. Scotch whisky, on the other hand, is never made with peat.
- Irish whisky is usually made with less grain barley than Scotch whisky, and the mash bill (or the recipe) is usually a bit different. On the other hand, Scotch whisky is made with a mash bill that is very similar to that of Irish whisky.
- Irish whisky is often blended with a little bit of grain from Scotland. Scotch whisky, on the other hand, is never blended with grain.
What’s the Same About Irish and Scotch Whisky?
- Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are aged 3 to 12 years.
- Irish whisky and Scotch whisky can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water.
- Both Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are types of whiskey.
- Both Irish and Scotch whisky is made with barley as the primary grain.
- Both Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are produced in Ireland and Scotland.
- Both Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are made in large distilleries.
- Both Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are made using wood-based fermentation.
The Differences Between Irish and Scotch Whisky
- Irish whisky is produced in Ireland and uses imported barley. Scotch whisky, on the other hand, is produced in Scotland and made almost entirely with barley grown in Scotland.
- Irish whisky and Scotch whisky are both aged in wooden barrels, but the type of wood and the length of aging varies slightly between the two types of whisky.
- Irish whisky is lighter and softer than Scotch whisky due to its lower alcohol content. On the other hand, Scotch whisky is heavy, smoky, and more robust.
- Irish whisky is usually made with a little bit of peat. Scotch whisky, on the other hand, is never made with peat.
- Irish whisky is typically blended with a little bit of grain from Scotland. Scotch whisky, on the other hand, is never blended with grain.
Which Type of Whiskey is Better: Irish or Scotch?
To be honest, there is no right or wrong answer here. It all comes down to personal preference. Irish and Scotch whisky are both delicious and have their unique flavor. Whether you prefer Irish or Scotch whisky, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious drink made with barley and aged in wooden barrels.
Irish and Scotch whisky pair well with water, soda, and other types of whisky. It’s also common to blend one type of whisky with another. If you’re choosing between Irish and Scotch whisky, we recommend trying both (not at the same time, though).
You never know which type of whisky you’ll like better or why you prefer one to the other. Some people have a personal connection to one type of whisky, and others enjoy the taste more.
Final Words
If you’re at the store or ordering a drink and aren’t sure which one you should choose, remember that Irish whisky is lighter and softer, and Scotch whisky is heavier, smokier, and more robust. With this knowledge, you can make a more intelligent decision about which type of whisky to buy for yourself and your friends and family. There is no wrong answer here, as Irish and Scotch whisky are delicious drinks made with barley and aged in wooden barrels.
