Types of Whiskey Explained: Find Your Perfect Match
Whiskey is one of the most celebrated spirits, and with so many different flavor profiles available, there’s a pour for every beverage enthusiast. Whether it’s your first time delving into the world of whiskey, or you’re an experienced connoisseur, it’s important to know how these different flavor profiles can change or enhance your dining experience.
Today, we’ll take a closer look at some of the major whiskey varieties, their different flavor profiles, which varieties pair well with certain meals, and why Carversteak, located on the beautiful lively Las Vegas Strip, has become a leading destination for diners seeking out an elevated and refined evening out.
What Are the Different Types of Whiskey?
Whiskey comes in different variations, creating unique flavors that pair incredibly well with certain dishes like steak and other meats. Whiskey is a one-of-a-kind beverage because each type of whiskey is crafted using a specific production method. That method depends on the region, the craftsman, and the age of the refinement process. This is what helps develop its flavor. You’ll also find that while there are different types of whiskey, even within the same type, its geographic origin can also influence the flavor profile of the whiskey overall.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of whiskey you’ll find available.
Tennessee Whiskey
Known for its smooth and hinted sweet flavor profile, this is a type of whiskey that’s well loved across the nation. Many will tell you that it falls under traditional American whisky, but others will say that Tennessee whiskey is a class all on its own.
A big part of the production process of Tennessee whiskey is that the spirit is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before it goes through the aging process. This is an extra filtration step known as the Lincoln County Process. Some popular brands you’ll recognize with this pour are Jack Daniel’s. Flavor profiles include oak, caramel, and vanilla, and lend well to that sweet, southern flavor spectrum.
Scotch Whiskey
This pour originates from Scotland and is known for its regional diversity and complex nature. Scotch undergoes an aging process that happens in oak barrels for at least 3 years before it’s ready.
The aging process will determine the type of Scotch created. For example, single malt Scotch is made from 100% malted barley, and it happens at a single distillery. Blended Scotch, on the other hand, is a mixture of grain and malt whiskeys that come from several distilleries.
You’ll find that the flavor profile of Scotch is distinct yet still diverse. Depending on the region, you might find notes of a fruity or floral taste, while others might have a more smoky flavor profile, with hints of honey and even dried fruit.
Single Malt Whiskey
While many people will think of Scotch whiskey when it comes to single malt, the reality is single malt whiskey is not regional and comes from a number of countries. For example, you’ll find various American single malt labels. Across the board, however, single malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery. Because all distilleries are unique, the flavor profiles of each change, depending on the craftsmanship as well.
Rye Whiskey
Known for its iconic spicy and bold flavor, rye whiskey is made from rye grains and is a primary component in popular cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans.
There’s also a level of diversity with rye whiskey, and you’ll find flavors including cinnamon, pepper, and a somewhat dry finish. Much like American Spirits and Scotch, regional differences can make a big impact on the flavor profile.
Japanese Whiskey
Focused on the elegant nature of Japanese culture, you’ll find that this pour is one of the most unique, subtle, and well loved pours across the globe. It has a very delicate flavor and is often accompanied by hints of honey and citrus, along with subtle notes that give it a smoky flavor profile. Japanese whisky may not be for everyone, but it’s certainly a delicacy that cannot be ignored for its elegant and elevated flavor profile.
Which Whiskey Is Right for Me?
Choosing the right whiskey really depends on what your flavor preferences are. However, your experience level can also play a part.
If you’re a beginner whiskey drinker, you should start off with something smooth and approachable. Some popular pours include bourbon like Maker’s Mark or Jameson, an Irish whiskey.
If you prefer something a little sweeter, Tennessee whiskey like Jack Daniel’s is an especially popular pour. Macallan 12 is a type of sherry cask finished Scotch that also has a hint of sweetness, making it more palatable to beginning whiskey drinkers.
There are also smoky and peaty flavor profiles that are found in pours like Laphroaig, an Islay Scotch. The Japanese whiskey, Yoichi, is also known for its peated flavor as well.
If you’re someone who enjoys the diverse flavor profiles of whiskey and considers yourself somewhat of a connoisseur, then you’re sure to enjoy rare single malts, bourbons, or aged Japanese whiskeys. These pours give you a feel for bold and delicate flavors that really allow you to explore and widen your flavor palette.
How Does Whiskey Pair With Food?
Because of the diverse flavors offered through whiskey, finding the right pour to pair with the right dish can create a one of a kind dining experience that really elevates the flavor of the food and the whiskey. The right pairing can truly make an indescribable meal, the kind that is hard to duplicate.
It’s important to note that there are select foods that are traditionally paired with whiskeys. For example, cheeses like aged cheddar pair really well with bourbon, while blue cheese pairs really well with peaty Scotch flavors.
Meats, including smoked brisket and steak pair really well with the bold flavors you’ll find with Tennessee whiskey or a high proof bourbon.
Seafood can also be paired really well with specific types of whiskey. For example, the crisp and fresh flavors of oysters pair great with briny Islay Scotch.
It’s not just meals that pair really well with whiskey, either; desserts do, too. For example, dark chocolate pairs incredibly well with rye whiskey because the two flavors complement each other nicely, enhancing the flavor profiles of each. The smooth and rich flavors of milk chocolate also do a really good job blending with the delicate and somewhat muted notes of Japanese whiskey.
If you’re indulging in popular desserts like crème brûlée or pecan pie, pair them with pours like sherry cask Scotch and rye whiskey, respectively. These dishes provide bold flavors and need a complementary yet equally bold flavor to enhance the experience.
Overall, you’ll want to pair your meal or dessert with a whisky that doesn’t overpower the flavors of your meal, but instead brings out the toned-down, muted flavors in a dish.
Why Is Our Whiskey Selection the Best?
At Carversteak, we know steak and we know whiskey. Our thoughtfully crafted menu of elevated American dishes, and classic cuts of steak, pair incredibly well with our thoughtfully curated lineup of whiskeys.
We have expertly chosen brands that define the unique flavor profiles you’ll only find in top quality whiskey pours. From limited edition releases to premium whiskeys, you’ll have the chance to experience spirits that are perfectly paired with our quality crafted steaks and other classic American dishes. Find out more when you explore our full menu.
Knowledgeable Staff
While anyone can carry a selection of popular whiskeys and refined flavors, nothing compares to the expertise of connoisseurs who understand how to enhance a meal with the right whiskey pour.
Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu, help you explore our whiskey selection, and provide recommendations that suit your personal preferences and align with the unique flavors of your dish.
What’s Our Whiskey Selection?
We’re proud to carry a diverse selection of whiskey brands, both the brands you love, and those that might be new to you. We also proudly offer our very own Carversteak Maker’s Mark Private Selection.
Carversteak’s very own Francesco Lafranconi, VP of Beverage & Hospitality Culture for Carver Road Hospitality, was privileged to be welcomed into the Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.
There, he created a premium custom whiskey selection for Carversteak exclusively. This Private Selection pairs the one of a kind flavor profile of Maker’s Mark with distinct flavors offered through the input and expertise of Lafranconi.
You can learn more about our Carversteak Maker’s Mark Private Selection when you explore our whiskey guide, or call to reserve your table for your next special occasion or elegant evening out.
In addition to our Maker’s Mark Private Selection, we also offer custom whiskeys from M&R Ambrato Vermouth, Stambecco Amaro, and Botanika Angelica.