Alas, Philly Beer Week planners didn’t keep us Penn Kids in mind when planning their week of “big beer fun.” With most of us opting for more tropical (read: less classy) locales for Spring Break, we decided it’s our turn to educate on the other, classier “man drinks” out there.
Possibly the most intricate and complex alcohol around, whiskey is top dog when it comes to the man drink. It takes some background, however, to navigate through the numerous variety and quality of whiskeys.
Blended vs. Straight
Blended whiskeys are made from, well, blends of different grains. Depending on quality, these can be used in both mixed drinks (Jim Beam) or sipped straight (Chivas Regal, Johnnie Walker). Straight, or single malt, whiskeys are held to strict standards. In the U.S., they are required to be aged at least two years in oak barrels.
Irish Whiskey
Purportedly the birthplace of whiskey distilling, the Irish take great pride in their whiskey. Irish whiskeys have a pleasant, smoother flavor, a testament to the intricate distillation process. Recommended Irish single-malt whiskeys: Jameson, Bushmills
Scotch
Smokier in flavor, Scotch is aged for much longer than Irish whiskey (usually from 10 to 18 years). Scotch is so tied to its Scottish homeland that varieties are designated by their location — the Highlands (freshest), the Lowlands (lightest) and the Islay (smokiest). Recommended Scotches: Highland Park, Bowmore
American Whiskey
Americans are no stranger to whiskey culture. Bourbon is a popular choice. Required to be made in Kentucky (where Bourbon County is located) and from corn, Bourbons range from the cheap to the fancy (some are aged for nearly 20 years). Maker's Mark is a favorite of bourbon enthusiasts. Rye Whiskeys are heavier and less-refined than bourbon; try Wild Turkey. Tennessee Whiskeys are sweeter than bourbon; the ever-popular Jack Daniels is the most common choice, but try their premium brand — Gentleman Jack.
Don’t be fooled by the idea that Whiskey bars are reserved for the old. Jose Garces is opening a whiskey bar later this year called Village Whiskey (20th & Sansom St.). Time Restaurant (13th & Sansom) also offers a wide selection of Irish whiskeys, blended and single-malt scotches.
