What Is the Difference Between Irish and Scotch Whisky?

Irish whiskey differs from Scotch chiefly in its triple distillation, which gives it a smoother, lighter taste, in the absence of peat smoke, and in the spelling: the Irish write "whiskey" with an e, the Scots write "whisky" without it.

Why is whiskey spelled with an e?

The extra letter e is no typo. In the 19th century Irish producers began adding the "e" to set themselves apart from what was then lower-quality Scottish output. Today a simple rule applies: Ireland and the USA write whiskey, while Scotland, Canada and Japan write whisky. Both spellings trace back to the Gaelic "uisce beatha", the water of life.

Triple or double distillation?

The biggest difference lies in the production method:

• Irish whiskey is traditionally distilled three times, which strips out more of the heavier compounds and yields a gentler, smoother spirit.
• Scotch whisky usually goes through two distillations and keeps a more robust, oilier character.
• There are exceptions on both sides. The Scottish distillery Auchentoshan, for instance, distils three times.

Both countries require a minimum of 3 years of maturation in oak casks.

What makes Scotch smoky?

The Scots, above all on the island of Islay, malt their barley over burning peat. The smoke binds to the grain and gives the whisky its trademark smoked, almost medicinal notes. The Irish traditionally dry their malt with hot air and no smoke, so grain, vanilla and fruit dominate the flavour. Smoky Irish whiskey does exist (Connemara), but it is a rare exception.

Which is better for a beginner?

For a first introduction to whiskey we recommend the Irish route. Jameson or Tullamore Dew are approachable, smooth and will not put off even a complete newcomer. A smoky Islay Scotch can be a shock to an unaccustomed palate. Here at Little Island in Frydek-Mistek you will find over 50 whiskeys, so you can compare both schools side by side in a single evening.

Quick summary

• Ireland: triple distillation, no smoke, spelled whiskey
• Scotland: double distillation, often peated, spelled whisky
• Both: at least 3 years in an oak cask

Fancy tasting the difference for yourself? Drop into Little Island Irish Pub at tr. T. G. Masaryka 1129 in Frydek-Mistek and we will happily pour you an Irish and a Scotch side by side. You will find the full range at /napojovy-listek.