We’ve all heard of vodka, bourbon, tequila, and other classic liquor used to make cocktails. But what about speciality liquors? They may not be as well-known as their classic counterparts, but they are worth checking out. These unusual liquors have been used to make some truly unique drinks, and they can add a whole new level of sophistication when paired with equally elite spirits.
Everyone has their preferences when it comes to the way they enjoy liquor. Some people prefer a high-proof spirit that leaves them feeling warm and buzzed right away; others like a gentler drink that plays second fiddle to an outstanding cocktail. Whatever your preferred type of alcohol, there is almost certainly a unique kind available that you haven’t tried yet.
Scotch Whisky
Scotch whisky is a type of Scotch whisky that is aged for at least three years in oak barrels. Most Scotch whisky can be aged as long as eight years in Scotland, though many whiskies that are labelled “single malt” are finished in a mix of younger and older barrels.
Scotch whisky can be bottled at any age, though the younger the whisky is when it is bottled, the less whisky it will hold, so it’s usually best to go for the older age levels. That being said, a good single-malt Scotch whisky is something worth taking note of. These smoky, sweet, and spicy flavours can be an interesting way to shake things up in the bar.
Japanese Whisky
If you’re a whisky drinker, you’ve probably heard of Japanese whisky before. And, if you’re really into whisky, you’re probably eager to try it for yourself. As the name suggests, Japanese whisky is made from whisky that has been aged in a Japanese whisky barrel. Many different types of barrels can be used for whisky ageing, including American white oak, sherry, and bourbon barrels.
Japanese whiskies are some of the most delicate and complex spirits available. They can be very fruity, with notes of fresh tropical fruits, like pineapple and oranges. They can also be characterized by a subtle buttery flavour or even a smoky influence. These complex flavours are due to the Japanese whisky barrels used, as well as the whisky itself.
Brandy
Brandy is essentially any kind of brandy, whether it’s French brandy, Spanish brandy, or even apple brandy from the Netherlands. But, regardless of where it comes from, the main characteristic of all brandies is that they are made from wine. This means that, like whisky and sake, brandies can also be made from any type of grape.
Unlike most other spirits, brandies can be made in a very large number of different styles. These include Eaux-de-vie (weak, unaged versions), aromatics (which are sweeter and can include vanilla and caramel flavours), spiced, fruit-infused, and various others.
Rum
Rum is one of the most famous types of spirits in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Rum has a strong and distinct flavour that is immediately identifiable as rum. This is partly because rum is made from sugar cane. Rum is also often aged in barrels, but the exact types of barrels used and the amount of ageing time can vary from brand to brand.
The most common kind of rum, whether it’s white or brown, is made from molasses. Rum can also be spiced and flavoured with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Rum is often used in tropical and Caribbean-inspired cocktails, as well as in some classic cocktails where it can add a unique and flavourful twist.
Tequila
Tequila is a spirit that is made from the same plant that is used to produce the popular Mexican cocktail, the margarita. However, the exact methods used to make tequila are kept secret by the producers of the spirit. The main components in tequila are blue agave, which is the key ingredient, and water. The key to making a good tequila is to use the freshest possible blue agave.
If you want to try something a little different, there are many different types of tequila, each with its distinct flavor. These can range from mild agaves that are perfect for cocktails, to strong and spicy spirits that are great on their own.
Cognac
One of the oldest types of brandy, cognac is made from brandy that has been aged for at least three years in oak barrels. The French drink cognac, which is the same as the Spanish cognac, and it is made from a different type of grape than most other brands of brandy. Cognac is often sipped neat, but it is also commonly used in cocktails. Like many other types of brandy, cognac can also be spiced with spices and other flavours to create different flavours.
Irish Whiskey (aka Single Malt)
Irish whiskey is made from several different types of whiskey that have been aged for a minimum of three years in Irish oak barrels. However, there are several different single-malt Irish whiskeys that have been aged for different lengths of time.
One reason that Irish whiskeys are so popular is that they can be quite different in flavour than other types of whiskey. Irish whiskeys are often thick and heavy due to the longer amount of time they spend in the barrels. These heavy flavours can make them great choices for mixing with other types of spirits, as well as Cola or ginger ale.
Conclusion
Scotch whisky is one of the oldest types of liquor in the world, dating back to the late 1600s. Japanese whisky is made from the same type of spirit that is used in the popular cocktail, the margarita. Brandy is any type of brandy, whether it’s French brandy, Spanish brandy, or even apple brandy from the Netherlands.
Rum is one of the most famous types of liquor in the world, dating back to the late 1700s. Tequila is one of the most popular types of Mexican liquor, dating back to the early 1900s. Cognac is one of the oldest types of brandy, dating back to the late 1700s. Irish whiskey is one of the oldest types of whiskey in the world, dating back to the early 1700s.
