New to whisky? The many labels, from single malt and bourbon to rye and Japanese whisky, can be confusing. The good news is that most types of whisky are defined by just three things: the grain it is made from, where it is made, and how it is aged. This beginner's guide explains every major style, what each tastes like and which bottles to try first in New Zealand.
Types of Whisky at a Glance
| Type | Made in | Main grain | Typical flavour |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single malt Scotch | Scotland | Malted barley | Malty, fruity, honeyed, sometimes smoky |
| Blended Scotch | Scotland | Malt and grain whisky | Smooth, balanced, easy drinking |
| Bourbon | USA | At least 51% corn | Sweet, vanilla, caramel |
| Tennessee whiskey | Tennessee, USA | Mostly corn | Sweet, mellow, light smoke |
| Rye whiskey | USA and Canada | Rye | Spicy, peppery, dry |
| Irish whiskey | Ireland | Barley, often with grain | Light, smooth, fruity |
| Japanese whisky | Japan | Malted barley and grain | Elegant, delicate, balanced |
| Canadian whisky | Canada | Corn, wheat and rye | Light, smooth, gently sweet |
Malt, Grain and Blended: The Three Building Blocks
- Malt whisky is made only from malted barley, usually in copper pot stills. A single malt comes from one distillery.
- Grain whisky is made from grains such as wheat or corn, usually in column stills, giving a lighter spirit.
- Blended whisky combines malt and grain whiskies for a smooth, consistent style.
Scotch Whisky
Scotch must be made and aged in Scotland for at least three years. Single malts vary hugely by region: fruity Speyside, smoky Islay and coastal Highland and Island malts. Blended Scotch such as Johnnie Walker is the world's best-selling style. Try first: Glenfiddich 12 or Johnnie Walker Black Label.
Bourbon and American Whiskey
Bourbon is American whiskey made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, which gives it rich vanilla and caramel sweetness. Tennessee whiskey such as Jack Daniel's is similar but filtered through maple charcoal. Try first: Buffalo Trace or Maker's Mark. Learn more in What Is American Whiskey? and Bourbon vs Scotch.
Rye Whiskey
American rye must contain at least 51% rye, giving a spicier, drier whisky than bourbon. It is the classic choice for a Manhattan or Sazerac. Try first: High West Double Rye.
Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey is often triple distilled, making it light and smooth. Single pot still whiskey, made from malted and unmalted barley, is a uniquely Irish style with a creamy, spicy character. Try first: Jameson, then explore our Irish whiskey range.
Japanese Whisky
Inspired by Scotch, Japanese whisky is known for its precision, balance and elegance, and is often enjoyed in a highball. Try first: Nikka From the Barrel or a Suntory blend. Read A Complete Guide to Japanese Whisky.
Canadian Whisky
Canadian whisky is usually a smooth blend of corn, wheat and rye whiskies. It is often called rye in Canada even when it contains little rye. Try first: Canadian Club. See our Canadian whisky range.
World Whisky
Excellent whisky is now made around the world, including Taiwan, India, Australia and New Zealand. Browse our full world whisky collection.
How Should a Beginner Drink Whisky?
Start with a small pour neat, then add a few drops of water to soften the alcohol and open up the aromas. If you prefer something lighter, try a whisky highball with soda or a classic whisky cocktail. Miniatures are an affordable way to taste several styles before buying a full bottle.
Buy Whisky Online in NZ
Whiskey Online stocks every major type of whisky. Many of our whiskies are direct imported and sold at wholesale prices. We deliver throughout New Zealand. Delivery is included on orders over $250. You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol. See our shipping and refund policy, or read Where to Buy Whisky Online in NZ.
FAQs
What are the main types of whisky?
The main types are Scotch (single malt and blended), bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, rye, Irish, Japanese and Canadian whisky.
What is the smoothest type of whisky for beginners?
Irish whiskey, Canadian whisky, bourbon and Speyside single malts are generally the smoothest and easiest to enjoy for beginners.
What is the difference between whisky and whiskey?
Only the spelling. Scotland, Japan and Canada usually write whisky, while Ireland and the USA usually write whiskey.
Which type of whisky is smoky?
Peated Scotch, especially from Islay, is the smokiest style. Look for Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg.
Please drink responsibly. You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol in New Zealand.