How is Irish whiskey distilled?
The most important thing you need to know about whiskey is that it is made from fermented grains. In the case of Irish whiskey, this grain is malted barley, an ingredient that gives whiskey its distinctive smoky, caramel flavor. To make whiskey, the barley is steeped in water for several days. The resulting liquid is called “trickling” or “low-strength” whiskey, which is then distilled in a pot still. This process is also known as “
How long does whiskey take to distill?
The traditional process of making whiskey can take around three to five days. This means that the whiskey is aged in the barrel for the same amount of time as the whiskey was distilled. This traditional three to five-day whiskey aging process is called the “low temperature mash” process. This method delivers distinct flavors to the whiskey, including smoothness.
How is whiskey made in Ireland?
The process for whiskey making is almost exactly the same as it has been for hundreds of years, although it’s much easier today with more automation. Most of the process is the same, with a few exceptions. For example, unlike Scotch whiskey, beer is not added to Irish whiskey during the aging process.
How is Irish whiskey made?
While Scotch is made using a similar process, Irish whiskey is made using two different methods. The two methods, pot still and column still, each use a unique combination of ingredients and result in a different flavor profile. We’ll explain each method in greater detail.
How is whiskey made in Ireland since prohibition?
Since the repeal of prohibition in the United States in 1933, whiskey has been made in Ireland using the pot still method, not the column still method used before prohibition. The pot still method is more labor-intensive. It produces a much lighter whiskey because it doesn’t strip out all of the water and alcohol during the distillation process. As a result, pot still whiskey tends to have a higher percentage of alcohol.