Whisky vs. Whiskey: Here’s the Difference

If you’ve ever spent time at a liquor store, you’ve likely noticed that one of your favorite spirits has two different spellings. Some whisk(e)ys are spelled with an “e” while others forgo the extra vowel—but why?

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Is there a difference between whisky and whiskey?

In short, yes. The product’s spelling is linked to its country of origin. American or Irish producers typically spell “whiskey” with the extra letter. Canadian, Scottish and Japanese distillers prefer “whisky.”

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Some experts believe that the spelling contrast can be traced back to different translations of the original Irish or Gaelic words for whisk(e)y. Others believe adding the “e” was a way for Irish distillers to differentiate their product from competitors’ whisky blends. Either way, the whisky vs. whiskey debate is one that has confused consumers for centuries.

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Editor’s Tip: If you’re struggling to remember which spelling to use, here’s a handy trick. The countries with an “e” in their name (Ireland and the United States) get the whiskey spelling. The countries without an “e” in their name (Canada, Scotland and Japan) spell it whisky.

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Do they taste different?

Kind of. Any whisk(e)y connoisseur is familiar with the many sub-categories of the spirit. So, of course, an Irish whiskey is going to taste different from a Canadian whisky—but that’s because each variety has a specific distillation process. It’s not the spelling alone that dictates how a whisk(e)y will taste, it’s how the liquor was made.

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Are there are any exceptions?

You bet! Some brands break from tradition and spell their product however they want—regardless of origin. Maker’s Mark, for example, is an American bourbon brand that opts for the “whisky” spelling.

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That means consumers can’t rely on spelling alone when picking up a bottle of their favorite tipple. Look for other clues, like the whisk(e)y’s style and origin. Or, opt for one of the most popular whisk(e)y brands of 2019—those are always a safe bet.

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