10 Fun Facts About Whiskey You Didn't Know
Whiskey is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks worldwide. It is a distilled spirit made from fermented grain mash, including barley, wheat, rye, and corn. However, there are some fun facts about this drink that you probably didn't know. In this article, we'll be looking at ten of them.
1. Jack Daniel died because of his safe
Jack Daniel, the founder of Jack Daniel's whiskey, died because of an infection in his toe. It is believed that he kicked his safe in frustration after he forgot the combination, and he injured his big toe, which later led to an infection that killed him.
2. There is a Whiskey School in Scotland
The University of Edinburgh has a whiskey school where you can learn about distilling and blending whiskey. The course is for both amateurs and professionals alike and includes tastings of some of Scotland's finest whiskies.
3. 'Whiskey' is a Gaelic Word
The word 'whiskey' originally comes from the Gaelic term 'uisce beatha,' meaning 'water of life.'
4. Ancient Egyptians Loved Whiskey
The ancient Egyptians made whiskey over 5000 years ago. They believed that this drink could help ease labor pains and treat other health issues.
5. Bourbon Doesn't Have to Come from Kentucky
Even though bourbon is often associated with Kentucky, it doesn't have to be produced there. Bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, as long as it follows the strict production rules.
6. Whiskey and Whisky Aren't the Same
The spelling of whiskey varies by country. In the United States and Ireland, it's spelled with an 'e,' but in Scotland, Canada, and Japan, they spell it without the 'e,' so it's 'whisky.'
7. George Washington was One of America's Largest Whiskey Distillers
George Washington was the largest whiskey distiller in the United States in the late 1700s. In 1799, his distillery produced nearly 11,000 gallons of whiskey.
8. Whiskey Tastes Better With Water
Many whiskey experts claim that adding water to your whiskey can release its full potential. It's believed that the water helps to open up the whiskey's flavor and aroma.
9. Whiskey Barrels Are Essential to Its Flavor
Whiskey barrels are made from oak wood and are an essential component of whiskey production. The barrels give the whiskey its flavor, color, and aroma.
10. Whiskey Can Be Used as Fuel
After a whiskey has been distilled, the leftover grain can be used as fuel for power plants. Whiskey waste is an excellent source of biofuel, and some facilities even use it to power their own production plants.
In conclusion, whiskey has a long and fascinating history, and these ten fun facts are just a small part of it. Whether you enjoy it on the rocks or in a cocktail, whiskey is a versatile and delicious drink that has stood the test of time.
