There are numerous inquiries people have about whiskey, and as someone who spends a lot of time researching and discussing the spirit, I’ve heard many of them at events like book signings and tastings. Here are the five most common whiskey-related questions I’ve encountered, along with my insights.

Is More Expensive Whiskey Always Better?

It’s a common misconception that the priciest whiskey is the best. However, the quality of whiskey does not directly correlate with its price. The cost of a bottle often reflects its rarity, demand, and additional factors such as barrel aging, warehousing, and production costs. Moreover, as whiskey ages, there’s evaporation, also known as the angel’s share, reducing the volume available and thus increasing the price of remaining bottles.

Is Older Whiskey Always Better?

Age isn’t a guaranteed sign of quality in whiskey. While some older whiskies may be excellent, others can be overly tannic or unpalatable. The aging process is complex and varies between brands. Therefore, it’s possible to prefer a younger expression from one brand while favoring an older version from another.

What’s the Deal with Whiskey vs. Whisky?

The spelling distinction generally indicates origin; "whiskey" with an "e" refers to spirits from the U.S. and Ireland, while "whisky" without the "e" pertains to Scotland, Japan, and Canada. Confusion arises because some brands do not adhere to these rules, such as Maker’s Mark, which is officially labeled as Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whisky. Historically, the usage of these terms has lacked strict adherence.

Can You Add Water, Ice, or Anything to Whiskey?

Absolutely! Enjoy your whiskey in whatever way you prefer. The famed master distiller Booker Noe often enjoyed his bourbon mixed with ice and water, which he termed Kentucky Iced Tea. Adjusting the ratio of ingredients based on the day is totally acceptable. Adding a bit of water can enhance the release of flavors and aromas in whiskey.

Does Bourbon Have to Come from Kentucky?

Legally, bourbon must be produced in the U.S., but it doesn’t have to come from Kentucky. Nevertheless, this state is responsible for the majority of bourbon production in the country. Interestingly, bourbon was historically made in Canada and Mexico before legislative definitions were established, and while distillers outside the U.S. can produce bourbon, they cannot label it as such.

For more on whiskey-related topics, you can check out resources like Men’s Journal. Cheers!