The Whisky Dictionary, or to give this book its full title – The Whisky Dictionary: An A–Z of whisky, from history & heritage to distilling & drinking, is the discerning sipper’s guide to everything appertaining to whisky as well as whiskey. The difference between those is also explained. Everything from American rye to bourbon spirits is also included (and there is some information about prohibition), as well as the popular whiskies from Japan. Did you know that both Italy and Israel also make whisky? Well, discussions of this and more obscure knowledge can be found within these pages!
Each spirit has its own unique history, process and culture and The Whisky Dictionary educates in charming fashion. Instead of the expected full-colour photographs the book is illustrated with sepia sketches, giving the volume a wonderful air of, perhaps, the turn of the 19th century. One has the impression of an age-old drink of quality and continuity.
Tasting Whisky and how to do it
It is packed with facts and all served in palatable style. If you want to know more about barrel-making and the impact of wood on spirits then it’s here under the letter C for Cooper. Letter M finds a recipe for Mint Julep, and Tasting whisky is, unsurprisingly, under the letter T!
The Whisky Dictionary would make a delightful gift for any whisky connoisseur. Men, and indeed some women, are notoriously difficult to buy for. If you have whisky appreciators in your life, then they will be delighted by this book, and even more so if it has a partner of a distinguished bottle of Scotch or Irish … or even Japanese!
The Whisky Dictionary: An A–Z of whisky, from history & heritage to distilling & drinking
Author: Ian Wisniewski
Published by: Mitchell Beazley
Price: £15.00
ISBN-13: 978-1784725488