Did you know that the word whiskey comes from the Gaelic phrase, ‘uisge beatha,’ which means ‘water of life’? Though going by how much you love whiskey, it seems like the meaning is perfect for you.

Whether you like it on the rocks, neat, or made into a cocktail, there is no denying that the smoothness and taste of whiskey are unparalleled. After all, there is a reason why our favorite author, George Bernard Shaw, felt that “whiskey is liquid sunshine.”

And, the best way to celebrate this wonderful drink is to taste it right at its source.

Here’s taking you through the top five countries around the world that are a must-visit for a whiskey lover. Let’s get right to it!

1.   Scotland

Scotland, being the motherland of whiskey, is home to over a hundred malt whiskey distilleries. Visiting all the distilleries of this beautiful country would nearly take you a lifetime.

In Scotland, the whiskey gets distilled from malted barley and divided into five distinctive categories. The most distinguished one among them is the single malt scotch whiskey, which is aged in specially-made oak barrels for three years.

Since you cannot explore all the distilleries here on one trip, it’s best to focus on one region. Speyside is an excellent place to start if you want to know more about scotch whiskey. It is located in northeastern Scotland and has more than half the distilleries of the country. World-famous labels, such as Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, come from this region. The Speyside Cooperage, the only operational cooperage in Britain at present, is a must-visit.

2.   Ireland

Ireland is known for its extravagant St. Patrick’s day festivities, the horse races in Galway, and the historical sites in Dublin. However, the triple-distilled awesomeness that Ireland gifted to the world makes this country an even more famous destination.

Though there aren’t too many operational distilleries present in the nation today, those who remain are more than a hundred years old. It proves Ireland’s rich legacy of distillation. Two of the most renowned distillery tours are found at the old Jameson distilleries and the old Bushmills.

As the oldest distillery in the country, Bushmills offers complex blends and single malts, which includes the popular Black Bush. The tour of the place involves a visit to the Bushmills village, knowing its origin story, and, finally, sampling some of the best whiskeys in the world.

The old Jameson distilleries are not functional any longer. It has been made into a museum depicting Ireland’s whiskey-producing history.

3.   Japan

Though Japanese whiskey is not as old as Scotland or Ireland, it’s still popular all over the world for its smooth single malts. Though the whiskey production started with scotch, the distillers have started using local ingredients and original techniques to bring in a distinctive taste.

The well-connected train system in Japan makes it easy to go distillery hopping. You can start your trip on the northern side of the country. Here you will find the remnants of the Sendai Castle of the 17th century.

Near this castle is Miyagikyo, which is owned by the famous Nikka Whiskey Distilling. It offers both tasting and tours, and though the tours are in Japanese only, the beauty of the place and the whiskey’s taste make it worth a visit.

4.   Canada

Canada is known for its unique flavors and world-renowned brands, such as Seagram’s, Canadian Club, and Crown Royal. The most popular alcoholic beverages from the country are single malt, a hundred percent rye whiskey, and Andre champagne.

Though many Canadian destinations are perfect for a whiskey lover, the Canadian Club Brand Centre deserves a special mention. The flavors and notes of this distinct blend make Canadian Club ranked one of the top ten whiskeys globally.

The tour consists of walking through the office buildings, while listening to the tales of glorious history, and ends with a tasting of different Canadian Club whiskeys conducted by the experts.

You can also pay a visit to The Glenora Inn & Distillery, which has been making smooth single malts for more than twelve years.

5.   America

The list will remain incomplete if this list doesn’t have the country that gifted Jack Daniel’s to the world.

Whiskey in America is made from a fermented mix of cereal grain, and it’s mainly categorized as Tennessee and Bourbon whiskey. The best way to get an American whiskey experience is to go for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. It has countless authentic distilleries of all sizes, both big and small.

To trace the origin of your favorite Jack Daniel’s, you will have to visit Tennessee. In the tiny town of Lynchburg lies the oldest distillery of America, which is also the home of one of the most famous whiskey brands all over the world.

A tour of this distillery will take you through the first experiences of the country with the art and science of distillation. You’ll also get to taste the liquid gold at the end of the tour.

Bottoms Up

There you have it – five destinations of the world that are perfect for a passionate whiskey lover like you. A visit to all of these countries will change your perception of the fine drink for sure. It will make you appreciate whiskey even more.

Are you ready to embrace your passion for whiskey and explore these beautiful countries? And, which one do you want to start from?

Author’s Bio:

Rebecca Siggers is a passionate writer & guest blogger. Writing helps her to improve her knowledge, skills & understanding about the specific industry. She loves writing & sharing her knowledge mostly in the Travelling Industry. She believes travelling is the key to a peaceful life & wants to spread her belief across the world. Apart from writing, She loves Traveling and Reading.