As one of the most popular alcoholic beverages created from the distillation of grain based products, whisky managed to closely infuse itself into culture of many nations around the world, especially in its homeland of Scotland. 500 years ago, whisky that we know today became slowly widespread among Scottish people, brought to them by the Christian monks who guarded the secrets of fermentation of distillation.
Although history of distilled drinks goes back several thousand year before, the true popularity of whisky came only after 15th century Scotland. Hundreds distilleries were present there, and ensuing harsh taxation and struggles against English government pushed even more people to start producing whisky in their homemade illegal distilleries (so called “moonshine” whisky, called because of the fact that it was made only during night when officials could not see the smoke from the distilleries).
After the success it had in the northern Europe, knowledge of whisky production spread across entire world, enabling other rich grain producing countries to make their own types of whisky. This expansion sometimes came to stop, most notably in the early 20th century Prohibition in United States, when all forms of production and consumption of alcohol were forbidden (except medicinal whisky and religious red wine). After the whisky survived that obstacle, it continued to gain ground and today it represents one of the most popular alcoholic beverages, strongly standing beside beer, wine and vodka.
Here you can find some of the most interesting facts about whisky – drink that managed to became part of the historical heritage of Scotland and a part of a multibillion dollar export industry of entire northern England.
Although our history is filled with many interesting stories about alcoholic beverages, one that distinguishes itself from others is the fascinating tale of whisky. In its relative short period spend in our modern history, this drink managed to pass through many interesting good and bad periods.
The fact that whisky can be created from only three basic ingredients and very little technical equipment played a big role in its rise of popularity. This is a perfect place to find out more about entire process of its creation.
Here are some of the most notable facts that you must know about whisky:
Note: All figures are approximate; this site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.