Category: Whiskey guide

Pure, distilled whiskey contains virtually no sugar, with some standard varieties having less than 0.1 grams per 100 ml. Therefore, the shocking answer to what whiskey has the highest sugar content is that it is not a traditional, straight spirit, but rather sweetened, flavored versions or whiskey-based liqueurs.

According to the distiller's official tasting notes, Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 has a distinctly sweet and smooth flavor profile, with prominent notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. However, some whiskey enthusiasts also perceive hints of subtle bitterness on the finish. The answer to whether Jack Daniel's is sweet or bitter is not a simple either/or, but rather a complex blend of both characteristics.

Ninety-proof whiskey contains 45% alcohol by volume (ABV), a standard measure of alcoholic strength. While this is significantly higher than beer or wine, its "strength" is subjective and depends heavily on a drinker's tolerance and experience. A 90-proof bottle is generally considered a balanced and approachable option for many whiskey drinkers, bridging the gap between smoother, lower-proof options and bolder, higher-proof spirits.

According to Coeliac UK and other health bodies, all pure distilled spirits, including whiskey, are gluten-free, a surprising fact given that many are made from gluten-containing grains. Navigating which whiskeys contain gluten requires understanding the purification process that removes the protein entirely.

A standard 750ml bottle of whiskey, often referred to as a "fifth" in the US, contains approximately 17 shots when using the standard 1.5-ounce measure. However, regional standards, personal pouring habits, and whether you are making cocktails versus serving neat can all change this number. Understanding these variations is essential for accurate party planning or managing bar inventory effectively.

According to the Scotch Whisky Association, every single malt Scotch is made from 100% malted barley. But does whiskey have barley in it across the board? The answer is more complex, depending on the type of whiskey and its unique mash bill.

The legal minimum bottling strength for whiskey is 40% alcohol by volume (ABV) in most major producing regions, including the United States and Scotland. While this sets a common benchmark, the truth is that whiskey's alcohol content can vary significantly, from this industry standard to much higher proofs found in specialized bottlings.

Whiskey is a low-carb, zero-sugar spirit, with its caloric content determined almost entirely by its alcohol proof. For those watching their intake, a standard 80-proof whiskey is what whiskey is lowest in calories, with popular brands hovering around 97 calories per 1.5 oz shot.

Traditional whiskey is made from fermented grain mash, yeast, and water. Thanks to the distillation process, pure whiskey is naturally free of dairy and, therefore, does not contain lactose.