whisky history

Whisky is a kind of distilled alcoholic beverage which is made from Fermented grain mash. Various kind of grains which can be malted are used for making whisky ( it’s included Barley, Corn, Rye, and Wheat). Whisky is normally aged in wooden casks, commonly made of charred white oak.

History of Whisky

Whisky history is a long and adventurous . It is said that nobody knows the exact dates for it’s history. As per sayings  that the art of distillation(with perfumes and aromatics) was founded in ancient Mesopotamia in 2000 BC. But in 100 AD we find the First Written Record of Distilling. Ancient Greek philosopher Alexander of Aphrodisias mentions the process of taking sea water and distilling it into pure water but these were not distillation of alcohol.

In 13th century there was record of the distillation of Alcohol in Italy where alcohol was distilled from wine. The technique was recounted by Ramon Llull ( 1232-1315). Its use largely for medicinal purposes. 
In Scotland , the first proof of whisky production comes from a record in the Exchequer Rolls of 1494 where King James IV of Scotland granted a large amount of malt ‘ To Friar John Cor, by order of the king , to make aquavitae’.

1536-1541King Henry VIII of England Dissolved the monasteries, sending their monks out into the general public. Whisky production moved out to the general public, as newly independent monk needed money for themselves.

In 13th century there was record of the distillation of Alcohol in Italy where alcohol was distilled from wine. The technique was recounted by Ramon Llull ( 1232-1315). Its use largely for medicinal purposes. 
In Scotland , the first proof of whisky production comes from a record in the Exchequer Rolls of 1494 where King James IV of Scotland granted a large amount of malt ‘ To Friar John Cor, by order of the king , to make aquavitae’.

1536-1541King Henry VIII of England Dissolved the monasteries, sending their monks out into the general public. Whisky production moved out to the general public, as newly independent monk needed money for themselves.

During 16th century the Old Bushmill Distillery is licensed in Northern Ireland , and today holds the title of Oldest Licensed Whisky Distillery in the World. In 1707 , the Acts of Union merged England and Scotland and thereafter taxes on its rose dramatically. 
The English Malt Tax of 1725  seriously intimidated the production of whisky and led the majority of Scottish distilleries to head underground and begin production at night, giving whisky one of its finest nicknames “moonshine.” It was estimated that over half of Scotland’s whisky production was illegal.

DURING 18th century In 1823 , the UK passed the Excise Act, legalizing the Distillation and this put a practical end to the large scale production of Scottish moonshine. In 1831 , Aeneas Coffey patented the Coffey still, allowing manufacturers to produce whisky more efficiently at a lower cost. In 1850 the first blended whisky came into production. Andrew Usher  mixed traditional pot still whisky with that from the new Coffey still. By the 1880 , the French Brandy industry was destroyed by the Phylloxera pest that ruined grape crops, as a result , whisky became the primary liquor in many markets. 
For 13 years , the American Prohibition era banned all production, sale and use of Alcohol. Whisky was available only on licensed pharmacies for those who had doctors prescription. During this time the Walgreens Pharmacy chain grew from 20 retail stores to almost 400 stores.

WHISKY IN INDIA

In India many people may not know that India is a major Whisky producer . Various and exciting malts are made here. Whisky has been in India since 19th century during BRITISH RAJ. Scotch was very popular with the British Shoulders and was imported in Large Quantities. In India Amrut Distilleries were  the first producers of whisky in 1948, yet they produce other Spirits first , but they started producing whisky in 1982.  Though , single malts were not popular at the time, so the liquid was used to create blends. Paul John , the second most famous Indian Whisky Producer, has been creating whisky since 1996. 

Health Benefits Of Whisky

1. Reduce Risk Of Heart Disease- As per multiple studies , a glass of whisky a day can help to reduce your risk of heart related problems. There are also antioxidant found in whisky that prevent cholesterol from building up in arteries and encourage the health of good cholesterol that your heart desires. 
2. Fight Against Cancerous Cell- Although Whisky can not be used as the only treatment, but whisky can help fight cancer. Ellagic acid , present in whisky, which helps absorb rogue cells in your body. The acid is also available in fruit and wine, yet it is found higher level in whisky.
3. Stress Reliever – After getting tired too much work of a busy day , a shot of whisky helps to calm your nerves, thus relaxing your body. It is especially beneficial for people with high stress and anxiety. 
4. Keep You Slim- Whisky has less a very low calorie as compared with other spirits. It contains very little sodium and no fat. Plus, the sugar in the drink is simple sugar, which is quickly processed by the body. This can help promote weight loss. 
5. Whisky Can Help Fight Against Cold-  When you feel that you have started feeling Cold , you should try hot toddies or the mix of whisky , hot water, lemon and honey. It warms you up inside and helps
6. fight that cold. 

As we know very well that excess of anything is not good for anyone . Although whisky can be good for you , but you will not get any of these health benefits if you overindulge . Whisky should be enjoyed in moderate way. Drink Whisky Responsibly and with moderation, can help you to live a longer and healthier life

Cheers