Raising a Dram to World Whisky Day: A Global Celebration of the Water of Life

Whether you spell it whisky or whiskey, there’s no denying that this golden spirit has captured hearts and palates across the globe. 

Every third Saturday in May, connoisseurs and casual sippers alike come together to celebrate World Whisky Day — a spirited occasion that invites everyone to enjoy and explore one of the world’s most beloved distilled drinks.

A Brief History of World Whisky Day

World Whisky Day was founded in 2012 by Blair Bowman, a Scotch whisky enthusiast from Scotland. His mission was simple: to make whisky more accessible and inclusive, encouraging people from all backgrounds and levels of knowledge to enjoy whisky however they like it — neat, with water, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.

Since then, the day has grown into an international celebration, marked by tastings, tours, festivals, and online events from Edinburgh to Tokyo, Kentucky to Cork.

Whisky vs. Whiskey: What’s the Difference?

The age-old debate continues! The spelling typically depends on the country of origin:

Whisky (without the “e”) refers to spirits from Scotland, Canada, and Japan.

Whiskey (with an “e”) is used in Ireland and the United States.

While the spellings differ, each region brings its own unique style and tradition to the dram.

Celebrating Around the World

Scotland: The Heartland of Whisky

Scotland boasts five whisky-producing regions: Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, Speyside, and Campbeltown — each known for distinctive flavour profiles. From peaty Islay malts to honeyed Speysides, there’s a Scotch to suit every taste.

Ireland: The Home of Triple Distillation

Irish whiskey is typically smoother and lighter, thanks to triple distillation. Brands like Jameson and Redbreast have become global favourites, while a new wave of craft distilleries is reinvigorating the industry.

USA: The Boldness of Bourbon and Rye

American whiskey, particularly bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, brings notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, often aged in charred oak barrels. Kentucky and Tennessee remain strongholds of production.

Japan: Precision and Perfection

Japanese whisky has gained global acclaim for its balance, subtlety, and innovation. Inspired by Scottish methods, distilleries like Yamazaki and Nikka have made Japan a serious player in the global whisky scene.

Wales: After hundreds of years of inactivity, Welsh whisky is making a comeback in the world of whisky. 

How to Celebrate World Whisky Day

Host a tasting: Invite friends over to sample whiskies from different countries. Pair with cheese, chocolate, or smoked meats.

Visit a local distillery: Many distilleries offer tours and tastings. If you're in the UK, consider a trip to a Scottish distillery or one of England’s growing number of craft producers.

Try a whisky cocktail: Classics like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Whisky Sour are a great way to enjoy the spirit in a new form.

Learn more: Read up on the history of whisky or take a virtual class to expand your knowledge.

A Toast to Whisky

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, World Whisky Day is the perfect excuse to raise a glass to heritage, craftsmanship, and the shared enjoyment of a truly global spirit.

So, pour yourself a dram, sit back, and say slàinte mhath, cheers, or kanpai — because whisky is for everyone.

Celebrate Easter in Style With High West Whiskey

High West Double Rye, with its harmonious balance of bold rye spice and botanical notes, the Double Rye is created with a blend of column and pot-still whiskies. 

This distinctive spirit has a unique flavour profile of cinnamon, gingersnaps, juniper and mint sprigs that enhance the sweetness of milk chocolate eggs. Price: £57.19

High West Bourbon Rich and earthy on the palate with well-balanced flavors of candy corn, honey nougat and sweet corn bread biscuits, complement the smooth texture and flavour of white chocolate eggs with High West Bourbon - a complex blend of straight bourbons with a unique aromatic flavour. Price: £54.57

High West Campfire Crafted with the world's finest blend of straight rye whiskey, straight bourbon and blended malt Scotch, High West Campfire features distinctive smoky and sweet notes that complement well the bitterness of dark chocolate eggs. Price: £79.95

Take a journey through the Rocky Mountains of Utah this Easter, with your perfect fix of chocolate and High West whiskey. To learn more, visit www.highwest.com

FACTFILE:

High West began with rather modest beginnings, a 250-gallon distillery housed in a historic horse barn with a saloon. 

What was once a small operation in downtown Park City has evolved into an internationally acclaimed, award-winning brand. 

High West's passion is to craft delicious and distinctive whiskeys, those that emulate and stay true to their home, the American West. High West is the first legal distillery in Utah since 1870. 

The brand honours the great legacy of whiskey makers before it, while experimenting to help define the new American whiskey. Their four varieties include Bourbon, Double Rye, Rendezvous and Campfire. High West Distillery is located on Old Lincoln Highway in Wanship Utah and welcomes visitors on expert led tours, and the opportunity to book in a tasting experience. https://highwest.com

Celebrating World Whisky Day: Exploring the Spirit of Tradition and Innovation

Mark your calendars and raise your glasses because May 18th is World Whisky Day, a global celebration of one of the world's most beloved spirits. Whisky, or whiskey, holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide, with its rich history, diverse flavours, and cultural significance. 

Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, World Whisky Day is the perfect opportunity to explore the depth and complexity of this iconic drink. In this blog post, we'll delve into the origins of whisky, its global appeal, and how you can join in the festivities on this special day.

Origins and Diversity:

Whisky's journey traces back centuries, with its exact origins shrouded in the mists of time. Various regions claim to be the birthplace of whisky, including Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and the United States, each contributing unique styles and traditions to the world of whisky-making. Scotch whisky, with its smoky, peaty flavours, is renowned for its craftsmanship and adherence to tradition, while Irish whiskey is known for its smoothness and triple distillation process. American whiskey, including bourbon and rye, boasts its distinctive character, often aged in charred oak barrels to impart rich flavours of vanilla and caramel.

Global Appeal:

What makes whisky truly remarkable is its universal appeal, transcending borders and cultures to unite enthusiasts around the globe. From the misty highlands of Scotland to the rolling hills of Kentucky, whisky has become an integral part of social gatherings, celebrations, and moments of quiet reflection. Its versatility allows for endless experimentation, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan. With a diverse range of expressions and styles to choose from, there's a whisky out there for every palate and occasion.

Celebrating World Whisky Day:

On World Whisky Day, whisky lovers worldwide come together to celebrate their passion for this venerable spirit. Whether you're hosting a whisky tasting with friends, visiting a local distillery for a behind-the-scenes tour, or simply savoring a dram of your favorite expression at home, there are countless ways to join in the festivities. Here are a few ideas to make the most of this special day:

Host a Whisky Tasting: Gather your friends and family for a guided whisky tasting, featuring a selection of different styles and regions. Compare tasting notes, share stories, and deepen your appreciation for the nuances of each dram.

Visit a Distillery: Take a trip to a nearby distillery to learn firsthand about the whisky-making process. From mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging, discover the art and science behind crafting this exceptional spirit.

Explore New Flavours: Step out of your comfort zone and try something new on World Whisky Day. Whether it's a peaty Islay single malt, a spicy rye whiskey, or a smooth Japanese whisky, embrace the opportunity to expand your palate and discover new favorites.

Raise a Toast: Finally, raise a toast to the spirit of whisky and the camaraderie it fosters among enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you're sharing a dram with loved ones or raising a glass in solitary contemplation, take a moment to reflect on the history, tradition, and craftsmanship that make whisky truly special.

As we raise our glasses to celebrate World Whisky Day, let's toast to the spirit of tradition and innovation that defines this timeless libation. Whether you're drawn to the peaty depths of a Scotch whisky, the taste of a Welsh whisky, the smoothness of an Irish whiskey, or the bold flavours of an American bourbon, there's no denying the universal appeal of whisky and its power to bring people together. So, on May 18th, join whisky lovers around the world in raising a glass to this iconic spirit and the rich tapestry of flavors, stories, and experiences it embodies. Sláinte!