History Of Scottish Whiskey
Origin
While the exact origins of Scottish whiskey remain a mystery, the art of distillation dates back to the early Celtic period. Distillation began as early as 800BC, but the art of making whiskey was already known to the Celts. They considered the liquid produced from distilling malt a gift from God and were fervent drinkers. During the Middle Ages, people began to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes. The liquid was also said to help with a number of ailments, including colic, palsy, and smallpox.
Distilling Process
Distillers use several different techniques to extract the maximum alcohol from liquids. They use two different kinds of heat: steam and water. Steam heats the liquids to the boiling point, and hot water heats them below this temperature. Both methods can extract the maximum alcohol. Steam heat also helps distillers to remove unwanted compounds and flavours. Once this process is complete, the spirits are ready for bottling. The final product is known as Scottish whiskey, and it is available in a wide range of flavours and aromas.
Taxation
The taxation of Scottish whisky could raise PS1bn for Holyrood if implemented. The Scottish Whisky Association has long campaigned for the reduction of Air Passenger Duty. The move was welcomed by the Scottish government, but critics say it will do little to make the industry more competitive. Sir George Mathewson, who served on the government’s Council of Economic Advisers, said the move would disadvantage the industry.
Blended Whiskies
The history of blended whiskies in Scotland begins with John Walker, who, at age sixteen, started his family’s store in Kilmarnock, Scotland. While working in the store, Walker sold whisky and blended it to create the flavour he was looking for. By the mid-1860s, the whisky was a sensation in Kilmarnock and grew to become one of the most famous Scotch whiskies.