How Does High-End Whiskey Differ from Cheap Whiskey?

The Illusion of High-End Whiskey
‘High-end’ is often an illusion created by marketers. It refers to the price-point and not necessarily quality, although quality can sometimes be a factor.

Over the years, I have visited numerous wineries and have noticed that some of the pricier ones come from small wineries with limited vintages. These small producers price their wines higher to ensure a profit. Similarly, limited releases or special editions of whiskey or other spirits may carry a higher price tag due to lower availability and increased production costs for ingredients, attention needed by staff, and extended aging periods.

Key Differences Between High-End and Cheap Whiskey

1. **Malt Bill and Grains:
High-end whiskeys often use premium ingredients. For instance, 'all-malt' whiskeys, made solely from barley malt, are usually more expensive since good barley malt is pricier than many other grains. Bourbon, which traditionally uses corn, and malt, similarly, are often priced based on the quality and type of grain used. There is also much debate regarding the types and quality of yeasts used.

2. **Sugars and Cheap Ingredients:
Distinguishing cheap whiskeys from more expensive ones can be done by identifying the use of sugars or cheaper grains. High-end whiskeys avoid the use of sugars, as they contribute to a grainy and less refined taste.

Distillation Process

The distillation process is a crucial step that contributes to the final product's quality. In high-end whiskeys, the 'heart' of the distillate, which is the middle portion, is carefully collected. At the beginning of the distillation process, volatile materials evaporate first, known as the 'head' of the distillate, which includes undesirable substances. Towards the end, the 'tail' of the distillate also contains undesirable elements. Collecting only the middle portion, or the 'heart', ensures a more refined and palatable product. However, to maximize production, it is tempting to collect more from the beginning and end, which can result in off-flavors and higher levels of hangover-inducing elements.

Many commercial distilleries use column stills because they are more efficient and versatile in producing different types and qualities of spirits. However, many craft distillers still prefer pot stills, as they provide a higher quality end product despite being more challenging and less efficient for maximizing production.

Ageing Process

Perhaps the most notable difference lies in the ageing process. High-end whiskeys typically spend a longer period in oak barrels, allowing for a more complex and refined flavor profile. This ageing can significantly enhance the taste and aroma of the whiskey. However, the quality of the ageing process depends on various factors, including the climate and the attention paid to rotating the stock around the barrel house.

Ultimately, if you enjoy an inexpensive bottle, by all means, enjoy it. Don't let anyone tell you that you shouldn't appreciate what you like.

In conclusion, while high-end whiskeys often offer more refined and complex flavors, the true enjoyment of any type of whiskey comes down to personal preference. Whether you're savoring a premium bottle or a more affordable one, it's all about finding what suits your taste buds.