INTOXICANTS

Well, I spent enough time on France's contributions to the world of the bibber.  Now for the British Isles.  What is it that makes Scotch Whiskey, Scotch Whiskey?  (Whisky and Whiskey are the same)

Here goes.  Scotch Whiskey must be made in Scotland.  Who knew?  Let it not surprise you that the first scotch was made by a friar - John Cor.  On top of that, there are laws that govern how and of what it is made and how it is stored. 

Originally, all of it was made of malted barley; wheat and rye grains are now also acceptable.    Only yeast may be used to ferment the mash of the grains.  All scotch must be aged at least 3 years in oak barrels.  It must have an alcohol content of at least 40%  (80 proof) by volume.  Nothing else may be added except caramel coloring. 

Scotch whiskeys come in five types:  Single Malt, Single Grain, Blended Malt, Blended Grain and Blended Whiskey.  Single Malt means only barley malt and water were used.  Single Grain means only one distillery was used to supply the batch.  It could be multiple grains.  Blends, of course, mean more than one whiskey was used.  Blended Whiskey means any of the above may be mixed together.

 90% of the whiskey produced in Scotland is that last type; i.e. Blended Whiskey.  Single Malts are very, very expensive. 

If you want to make some yourself, go to Scotland.  You drink enough there and you might get a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster. 
🍷