Is it whisky or whiskey?

When do you spell your favourite drink with a “y” and when with an “e”? Whisky (or whiskey) has long held its place as one of the world’s premier tipples, and its use in cocktails has only grown ever more popular. But basic terms connected to the spirit can sometimes be confusing. Here’s a quick primer that will help you get it right, every time:

Scotch: Only whisky (no ‘e’ here) that is made in Scotland is called Scotch, like your Chivas Regal, Johnnie Walker, Glenfiddich, etc. Scotch is generally smooth and has a distinct flavour owing to the grains being smoked over a peat fire.

Irish whiskey: It may just be a hop, skip and jump away from Scotland, but the spirit from Ireland is spelt with an “e”. Jameson is possibly the best known. Irish whiskies can be sweet or spicy, even citrusy or earthy.

Bourbon: The US’ national drink, Bourbon gets its name from the county where it was made, in Kentucky. Bourbons like Maker’s Mark are generally considered mellower and sweeter than Scotch and Irish whiskey. Bourbon that is made in Tennessee is called Tennessee whiskey. A case in point is Jack Daniel’s.

Rye: Rye can refer to American rye whiskey or Canadian whisky (“e” is dropped). The Canadian version is supposed to be mellower and lighter while the American version has been described by experts as “bready”.