Taking you from its ancient origins to 21st century Tokyo bars, Whistey is the ultimate guide to discovering and enjoying the world's finest spirit.
Peat bogs and pot stills - how whiskies gain their unique arolnas and flavours, with the secrets of the master distillers revealed.
The distilleries - the complete, fully illustrated international guide: detailed coverage of" the classic Scottish malt whisky producers, and distilleries around the world including Ireland, North Americas and Japan.
The pleasure of whisky - how to enjoy and appreciate whisky with the help of Michael Jackson's unique tasting notes and unrivalled knowledge of whisky culture. Michael Jackson goes in search of whiskies, from Arran to Oregon and Cooley toYamazaki, to explain the differences and celebrate the diversity of whisky. From using whisky in cocktails and food, to deciding which style to suit your taste, Whisky will help you discover and enhance your passion for the spirit.
Introduction 6
People of Passion 10
UNDERSTANDING WHISKY 12
The Family of Whiskies 14
The Family of Distilled Drinks 16
The Enjoyment of Whisky 18
Whisky in Literature 20
AROMAS & FLAVOURS 22
The Influence of Climate 24
Geology 26
Water 30
Heather 32
Sea Breeze and
Seaweed 34
Barley 36
Peat 40
Malting 44
Commercial Malting 50
Yeast and Fermentation 56
Pot Stills 58
Column Stills 64
The Influence of Wood 68
Maturation: the Warehouse 76
A Traditional Distillery 78
Blending andVatting 80
How to Nose and Taste 84
THE WHISKY COUNTRIES 86
SCOTLAND 88
The Lowlands 98
TheWestern Highlands 106
Islay and the Islands 114
The Northern Highlands
and Inverness 132
Speyside 144
The Eastern Highlands 170
Vatted Malts 176
Great Blends 178
IRELAND 182
Cork 186
The Irish Midlands 190
Dublin 192
Cooley 194
Bushmills 196
