Spirits Flashcards
What are the principles of distillation?
Separating alcohol from a fermented liquid using heat and condensation.
What are the main methods of spirit production?
Pot still distillation (traditional, retains more flavors) and column still distillation (continuous, higher purity).
What are the two main types of Scotch whisky?
Single Malt (100% malted barley, one distillery) and Blended (mixture of malt and grain whiskies).
What defines an Islay whisky?
Peaty, smoky whisky from the Islay region of Scotland, e.g., Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin.
What are the main types of Irish whiskey?
Single Pot Still (malted & unmalted barley), Single Malt, Grain Whiskey, and Blended.
What are the key types of American whiskey?
Bourbon (51% corn), Rye Whiskey (51% rye), Tennessee Whiskey (filtered through charcoal, e.g., Jack Daniel’s).
What are the aging categories for Cognac?
VS (2 years), VSOP (4 years), XO (10 years).
What is Fine Champagne Cognac?
A blend of Grande Champagne (min. 50%) and Petite Champagne Cognacs.
What is Armagnac, and how does it differ from Cognac?
A brandy from Gascony, distilled once in a column still (Cognac is distilled twice in a pot still).
What is the best region for Armagnac?
Bas-Armagnac is considered the highest quality due to its sandy soils and elegant style.
What is Calvados?
An apple (or pear) brandy from Normandy, France.
What are the aging terms for Calvados?
Fine (2 years), Vieux/Reserve (3 years), VO/VSOP (4 years), XO/Napoléon (6 years).
What is Tequila made from?
100% Blue Weber Agave.
What are the main categories of Tequila?
Blanco (unaged), Reposado (2-12 months), Añejo (1-3 years), Extra Añejo (3+ years).
How does Mezcal differ from Tequila?
Mezcal can be made from multiple agave species, often roasted in pits for a smoky flavor.
What is Gin made from?
Neutral spirit flavored with juniper and botanicals.
What are the different styles of Gin?
London Dry, Old Tom, Genever, New Western.
What is Vodka traditionally made from?
Grain (wheat, rye), potatoes, or corn.
What is Rum made from?
Sugarcane byproducts (molasses or sugarcane juice).
What are the different types of Rum?
White, Gold, Dark, Spiced, Agricole, Overproof.
What is Marc or Grappa?
Pomace brandy made from grape skins and seeds after winemaking.
What is Eau de Vie?
A clear fruit brandy made from fermented and distilled fruit.
