Whiskey (or whisky, depending on the region) is a broad and historic category of distilled spirit made from fermented grain mash—most commonly barley, corn, rye, or wheat—and typically aged in wooden barrels, which impart complexity, color, and character over time. Originating in Ireland and Scotland, whiskey has since become a global phenomenon, with distinct styles emerging in America, Canada, Japan, and beyond. Each country has its own rules: Scotch must be aged at least three years in oak and is often peated and smoky; bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak; rye whiskey offers a spicier profile; and Japanese whisky often mimics Scotch’s elegance while incorporating local finesse. Whiskey’s flavor profile is shaped by its ingredients, distillation method, barrel type, and aging time, ranging from light and floral to rich, smoky, and intense, making it one of the most diverse and revered spirit categories in the world.