Raise a Glass: It’s International Whisk(e)y Day! – Every year on March 27th, whiskey lovers from all corners of the world unite to celebrate their favourite golden spirit—because let’s be honest, any excuse to sip on a fine dram is a good one!
This dedicated day honours whiskeys from around the globe—including alcohol-free offerings for those who want to enjoy the flavours without the alcohol.
The “E” Debate: Whiskey or Whisky?
If you’ve ever wondered why some people spell it “whisky” and others go with “whiskey,” here’s the deal:
- Whisky (no “e”) is used by Scotland, Canada, and Japan.
- Whiskey (with an “e”) is preferred in Ireland and the United States.
To keep everyone happy, International Whisk(e)y Day embraces both spellings!
A Sip of History
Whiskey is made from fermented grain mash—typically corn, wheat, rye, or barley. Over the centuries, it’s gone from being a simple grain-based spirit to a cultural icon, a collector’s dream, and even a home remedy for sore throats (thanks to warm water and honey). Some even claim whiskey’s antioxidants can help keep you young. Sounds like a solid reason to raise a glass!
A World of Whiskey
Not all whiskeys are created equal—each country has its own signature style:
American Whiskey – Smooth and often sweet, this includes bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey. Think caramel, vanilla, and a rich, full-bodied taste.
Scotch Whisky – Earthy and complex, Scotch can be peaty and smoky (especially from Islay) or smooth and balanced (like a Highland single malt). It’s split into blended Scotch and single malt Scotch.
Irish Whiskey – Light-bodied but full of character, Irish whiskey includes blends, single malts, and single grain varieties. Triple-distilled for smoothness, it’s an easy sipper!
Canadian Whisky – Light, smooth, and often fruity, Canadian whisky (sometimes called “rye whisky”) is known for its versatility.
Alcohol-Free Whiskey? Yes, It’s a Thing!
If you’re looking for a whiskey alternative without the alcohol, CleanCo has you covered. As the world’s leading independent alcohol-free spirits brand, they’ve created Clean W, a sophisticated whiskey-inspired drink.
Crafted by award-winning flavour experts using only the highest-quality ingredients, Clean W delivers delicious notes of oak, vanilla, spice, fresh apple, and fig for a long, smooth finish. It’s perfect for an alcohol-free Old Fashioned, so you can delight in the night and still wake up feeling fresh the next day!
Clean W is available for £16 at www.clean.co.
Try These Alcohol-Free Whiskey Cocktails
Clean Old-Fashioned
- 50ml Clean W
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 sugar cube
- Orange peel garnish
Muddle the sugar and bitters, add Clean W, stir with ice, and enjoy!
Clean Whiskey Sour
- 50ml Clean W
- 25ml fresh lemon juice
- 15ml simple syrup
- Egg white (or aquafaba for a vegan version)
- Ice
Shake ingredients well, strain into a glass, and serve with a lemon twist!
How to Celebrate International Whisk(e)y Day 🍾
Try Something New – Whether it’s a classic whiskey or a non-alcoholic alternative, expand your horizons!
Make a Classic Cocktail – Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Whiskey Sour—whiskey (or Clean W) makes them better!
Raise a Toast – Celebrate responsibly with friends, or savour a quiet dram by the fire.
Visit a Distillery – Learn how your favourite whiskey is made and maybe even grab a bottle straight from the source.
Share the Love – Post your favourite whiskey moment using #InternationalWhiskeyDay and connect with fellow whiskey enthusiasts.
Whether you like it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, today’s the day to appreciate the craftsmanship, history, and pure enjoyment that a great whiskey brings. So, go ahead—pour yourself a glass (alcoholic or not) and toast to the spirit of the day! Cheers!
Poppy Watt