A Beginner's Guide To Whiskey & Bourbon

Discover the world of whiskey one dram at a time. Whiskey has a reputation for being complicated, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're completely new to whiskey or simply looking to try something different, there's a style to suit every taste. From Smooth Irish Whiskey and sweet American bourbon to elegant Highland Scotch whisky and bold smoky single malts, this guide will help you discover your next favourite. At 99&Main, we've carefully selected whiskies and whiskeys from around the world, so there's something for everyone to enjoy.

What's the Difference Between Whisky, Whiskey & Bourbon?

Although the names are similar, there are some important differences.

• Scotch whisky is made exclusively in Scotland and comes in many different styles, from light and fruity to rich and smoky.

• Irish Whiskey is produced in Ireland and is often triple distilled, giving it a smooth, approachable character that's perfect for those new to whiskey.

• Bourbon is an American whiskey made with at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. This process creates its signature flavours of vanilla, caramel and toasted oak.

You may notice two different spellings. "Whisky" is generally used in Scotland, Canada and Japan. While "Whiskey" is used in Ireland and the United States. Both are correct - it simply depends on where it's made.

You may come across the term single malt.

• A single malt Scotch whisky is made at one distillery using only malted barley. It doesn't necessarily mean it's better than other whiskies; it simply describes how it's produced. Many of Scotland's most famous whiskies are single malts, each with their own unique flavour profile.

New to Whiskey? Start Here...

Jameson Irish Whiskey

One of the world's best selling Irish whiskeys, Jameson is famous for it's exceptionally smooth and easy drinking style.

Expect gentle notes of vanilla, orchard fruits and subtle spice, making it a fantastic first whiskey.

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old

One of the world's most recognisable single malt Scotch whiskies. Fresh pear, honey and soft oak flavours make it light, approachable and incredibly easy to enjoy.

Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve Single Malt

This elegant Highland single malt is matured in three different cask types, creating a wonderfully smooth and balanced whisky.

Expect notes of vanilla, honey, orchard fruits and gentle oak with a long mellow finish.

Sweet, Rich & Full of Character

Maker's Mark

Made using red winter wheat instead of rye, Maker's Mark is softer and sweeter than many bourbons. Look out for flavours of vanilla, caramel, toffee and gentle baking spices.

Buffalo Trace

A beautifully balanced Kentucky bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, brown sugar anf gentle spice. Smooth enough for beginners while offering plenty of depth for experienced bourbon lovers.

Woodford Reserve

Rich, complex and full-bodied. Expect dried fruit, toasted oak, cocoa and warming spice, making this an excellent choice for those looking to step up from entry level bourbon.

Angel's Envy

Finished in port wine barrels, Angel's Envy offers something a little different. Rich notes of vanilla, maple syrup, ripe fruit and chocolate create an incredibly smooth and luxurious bourbon.

Bold & Spicy

Wild Turkey Bourbon

full-bodied with flavours of vanilla, cinnamon, pepper and caramel. Bold without being overpowering. Making it ideal for those wanting a little more intensity.

Bowsaw Rye

Rye whiskey offers a different experience to bourbon. With notes of black pepper, clove, citrus and warming spice, Bowsaw is drier, spicier and wonderfully distinctive.

Discover Scotch Whisky

Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old

Often considered one of Scotland's gentlest single malt whiskies, Dalwhinnie is smooth, elegant and beautifully balanced. Expect honey, heather, citrus and delicate spice with a warming finish.

Highland Park 12 Year Old

Highland Park is famous for balancing sweetness with just a touch of peat smoke. Heather honey, dried fruit and warming spice combine with subtle smokiness to create an excellent bridge between lighter whiskies and heavily peated styles.

Laphroaig 10 Year Old

Laphroaig is one of Scotland's most iconic single malts and is loved around the world for its unmistakable smoky character. Powerful peat smoke, sea salt, oak and earthy flavours create a whiskey that's bold, distinctive and unforgettable. It isn't usually where beginners start, but for loves of smoky Scotch it's hard to beat.

Discover Japanese Whiskey

Toki Suntory Japanese Whisky

Crafted by the House of Suntory, Toki is a beautifully balanced Japanese whisky that combines tradition with a modern style. Light, smooth and elegant, it offers delicate notes of green apple, honey, vanilla and a gentle hint of spice. Japanese whisky is renowned for its precision and balance, making Toki an excellent choice for those looking to explore something beyond Scotch or bourbon.

How should you Drink Whiskey?

There are no rules when it comes to enjoying whisky - or whiskey.

Some poeple prefer it neat to appreciate every flavour while others enjoy it over a large ice cube or with a splash of water to open up the aromas. Both whisky and whiskey also shine in classic cocktails, including:

• Old Fashioned

• Whiskey Sour

• Manhattan

The best way to enjoy it is simply the way you like it.

Common Myths

"You have to drink it neat"

Not at all. Adding a little water or ice can open up different aromas and make some whiskies easier to enjoy.

"Older always mean better"

Age is only one part of the story. A well made 10 year old whiskey can be every bit as enjoyable as one aged for longer.

"Whiskey is only for older people"

Whiskey is enjoyed by people of all ages, whether sipped neat or used in modern cocktails.

Visit 99&Main

Whether you're taking your first steps into the world of whiskey or searching for a new favourite, our team is always happy to help. Tell us what flavours you usually enjoy and we'll recomment the perfect dram to suit your taste. From smooth Irish whiskey to premium Kentucky bourbon to elegant Highland single malt Scotch and smoky Islay classics, there's always something waiting to be discovered at 99&Main.