A TOAST TO 'UISCE BEATHA'

As the world marked Whisky Day recently, CE presents a swig of all that you need to know about the 'water of life'

- SRUTHI HEMACHANDRAN

OVE or hate her, but you cannot deny the timeless appeal of whisky. Once seen as the stoic companion to leather chairs and smoky rooms, this spirit has shed its old clichés.

Today, whisky is as much at home in cosy neighbourhood bars as it is in sleek, high-end tasting lounges. It's no longer just a gentleman's drink—it's a global affair, attracting enthusiasts, casual sippers, and curious newbies alike.

Whisky traces its roots to medieval monks of 15th-century Ireland and Scotland, who distilled it as a healing dose of elixir. Over centuries, it evolved from simple grain distillates into the complex, flavourful spirit enjoyed worldwide. Scotland, Ireland, and later the US and Japan developed distinct styles. Whisky is now a global phenomenon, with new regions crafting award-winning bottles while honouring centuries-old traditions.

While water, grain, and yeast form the foundation, it's the barrel that shapes whisky's soul. Experts say that 60-80 per cent of a whisky's flavour and colour come from the cask.