At its core, whiskey is a distilled spirit made from fermented grain mash, typically featuring a blend of malted barley, corn, rye, and/or wheat. The specific grains used, as well as the distillation and aging processes, are what give each style of whiskey its distinct character and flavor profile.

Scotch whisky, for example, is renowned for its complex, layered flavors, which can range from the intense, smoky notes of Islay whiskies to the more delicate, floral expressions of the Highlands. These unique characteristics are the result of a meticulous production process that often involves the use of peat-fired kilns, long fermentation periods, and extensive maturation in oak casks.