When it comes to whiskey (or whisky), there's often confusion over the correct spelling of the word. Is it spelled with an "e" or without? Does it depend on the type of whiskey you're drinking? In short, yes, it does. In this blog post, we are going to be putting to bed the question is it spelt whiskey or whisky.
Answering the Question: Is It Spelt Whiskey or Whisky?
The difference in spelling between whiskey and whisky comes down to where the spirit is produced. Whiskey with an "e" is typically used to refer to spirits produced in the United States and Ireland, while whisky without the "e" is used to refer to spirits produced in Scotland, Canada, and Japan.
But why the difference in spelling? It all comes down to the historical development of the spirit in each country. In Ireland and the United States, the spelling of whiskey with an "e" became popularized in the 19th century as a way to distinguish their spirits from those produced in Scotland. Meanwhile, in Scotland and other countries, the spelling without the "e" became the norm.
It's worth noting that there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some American whiskey producers, such as Maker's Mark, choose to use the spelling without the "e". Similarly, some Irish whiskey producers, such as Bushmills, use the spelling without the "e" for certain expressions.
So, if you're drinking a whiskey or whisky, how do you know which spelling to use? As a general rule, if you're drinking a spirit from the United States or Ireland, use the spelling with an "e". If you're drinking a spirit from Scotland, Canada, or Japan, use the spelling without the "e". Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule, so it's best to check the label of the bottle you're drinking to confirm.
In conclusion, the difference between whiskey and whisky comes down to the country in which it's produced. While the spelling can be confusing, it's important to use the correct spelling depending on the type of spirit you're drinking. Whether you're sipping on a smooth Irish whiskey or a peaty Scotch whisky, knowing the proper spelling is a small but important detail that adds to the enjoyment of the spirit.