For the longest time, I thought whiskey was just whiskey. I'm sure I'm not alone in this — you see the amber liquid in a bottle, hear some fancy epithets like "single malt" or "bourbon," and you think, "Sure, I get it." Spoiler alert: I absolutely did not get it. If you'd handed me a Glencairn glass back then, I'd probably have mistaken it for a dessert, with some yummy mousse.

If I'd had Robin Scherbatsky's whiskey confidence during my university years, I might've skipped the Jack-and-Coke entirely! Back then, whiskey was either too strong or just not my thing, and I assumed it was reserved for gruff men lounging in leather armchairs, puffing on cigars (think Jockey Ewing or Don Corleone). Turns out, I just hadn't met the right one yet!

My enlightment came during a whisky-tasting session in Scotland back in 2019. My husband and I stood in front of a map detailing the different whisky regions of Scotch, and I realized I knew nothing. Whisky — or whiskey, depending on the country of origin — is an entire universe of flavors and personalities. The two different spellings depend on where it's made: American, Irish, and some other varieties go with "whiskey," while Scotland, Canada, and Japan stick with "whisky." I try to use the proper spelling — I wouldn't want to offend an entire nation of whiskey enthusiasts, right?

Between ancient churches and cobble-stoned Scottish streets, we discussed our whisky preferences with my significant other: he loved the smoky, peaty Islay styles, while I gravitated toward lighter, fruitier flavors. Who knew whisky could remind you of barbecue and bonfires one moment and exotic fruit salads the next? Mind. Blown.

We returned home, and continued the expedition: that's when I discovered why Irish whiskey resonates with me the best— it's a bit more silky than the Scotch, and it's like a golden symphony of dried fruits, cinnamon, and even tropical hints like pineapple!

Fast forward to my 2025 visit to the Teeling Distillery in Dublin, that love affair with whiskey deepened. Although whiskey was often seen as a man's drink, I don't buy into that anymore. If Robin Scherbatsky can sip a Scotch with confidence and style, why shouldn't I enjoy the artistry of a well-crafted dram? That said, I think I had to mature into the non-Jack-and-Coke whiskey era. :)

At Teeling, they shatter that stereotype completely. The distillery feels like a modern temple to whiskey, blending tradition with innovation. It's smaller and more intimate than some of the Scottish giants, but that's part of its charm. Plus, their three gorgeous copper pot stills — named Alison, Natalie, and Rebecca — are like the divas of the operation, delivering that signature triple-distilled Irish character.

Speaking of, how does whiskey come to life? First, they pick the grain — it could be barley, corn, wheat, or rye. Irish whiskey loves barley the most! The barley gets a little spa treatment: it's soaked to sprout and then dried (this is called malting). Then, the grains get a hot bath with water to pull out all the sweet sugars, and yeast joins the party to turn those sugars into alcohol. Now, the magic happens during distillation — Irish whiskey is known for being triple distilled, which makes it extra smooth and easy. The alcohol gets heated three times to really bring out all the flavors.

Lastly, the whiskey gets to take its time aging in oak barrels, which is where it gets its rich color and flavor. They even add some extra flair by using rum, wine, and sherry casks to make it even tastier. It's like whiskey's secret recipe! Teeling uses a variety of barrels, which lend unique flavors. Rum barrels, for example, add a tropical sweetness, while wine casks might introduce notes of red fruit or spice.

And here's a fun fact: as whiskey ages in barrels, some of it evaporates. This is poetically called "the angel's share."

I like to imagine celestial beings sipping it while lounging on fluffy clouds! :) The longer the aging, the more whiskey those angels steal, which is why older bottles are rarer (and pricier).

Then comes the next best part of the Distillery tour: the tasting, which is an art form! First, there's the glass — none of that chunky tumbler nonsense; you need a Glencairn or tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas. Then comes the process: take a sniff (mouth slightly open to catch the full bouquet), a tiny sip, and let it coat your palate. Whiskey has layers — the initial hit, the mid-palate flavors, and the lingering finish. At Teeling, their Small Batch offers vanilla and spice, while the Pot Still is lighter and fruitier, perfect for beginners. Feeling adventurous? Try the Blackpitts, their peated whiskey, which delivers a smoky punch of Scottish Islay malts.

Oh, and for those who find whiskey a bit strong, Teeling serves up an excellent cocktail featuring their Small Batch. I'll admit, this was my gateway drink — the balance of flavors made it incredibly smooth, featuring cinnamon and apple. Yumm!

Humble reminder: this isn't about drinking to get drunk. My hubby and I savor whiskey as a culinary experience. It's a slow process, often tied to a special moment or celebration.

Whiskey-tasting is like wandering through an art gallery — each sip reveals a new masterpiece waiting to be explored. And once you get into this world, you'll never look at a glass of whiskey the same again! :)

Ready to explore? Here are my few recommendations to your whiskey journey! For Irish whiskey, try Teeling Pot Still, classic Jameson, or Redbreast 12 Year for a rich and layered experience. From the Scotch whisky world, Glenlivet or Auchentoshan are light and fruity picks, while Laphroaig will test your taste buds with its bold, peaty punch. If American whiskey is more your style, Maker's Mark and Woodford Reserve offer smooth, sweet flavors. For Japanese enthusiasts, Nikka From the Barrel or Hibiki deliver pure elegance in every sip.

Feeling like neat whiskey is too much at once? Start with a cocktail! A whiskey sour or an old fashioned can introduce you in a way that's lighter and approachable. Whatever you choose, enjoy the experience, and always remember to leave a little room for the angels! :)

Of course, I understand whiskey isn't for everyone. Some people don't drink at all, whether for personal, health, or cultural reasons. I also remember my own dry months during pregnancy and nursing — believe me, I wasn't dreaming of a dram then either. So no pressure — think of this story as my whiskey fan fiction. This is about the little moments, whether with a glass of whiskey or not. :)

P.S.: The recipe for the delicious Winter Spiced Tea Cocktail: • 40ml Teeling Small Batch Whiskey • 30ml "Put The Cat Out" Lavender and Chamomile tea • 30ml Apple-Cinnamon syrup • 20ml Lemon juice • 10ml Vanilla liquor