The term “Whiskey” originated from the gallic word uisgebaugh (wys-ger-baugh) which translates into “water of life”. Whiskey is distilled from a mash of grain, which may include corn, rye, barley, wheat or oats.
American whiskeys are defined by their grain or alcohol content, whereas imported whiskeys are defined by their country origin. In many cases 51% rye grain is called whiskey, however 51% corn is called bourbon. Whiskey made in Scotland is called Scotch, and whiskey made in Ireland is called Irish Whiskey.
