Taking you from its ancient origins to 21st century Tokyo bars, Whistey is the ultimate guide to discovering and enjoying the world's finest spirit.

Peat bogs and pot stills - how whiskies gain their unique arolnas and flavours, with the secrets of the master distillers revealed.

The distilleries - the complete, fully illustrated international guide: detailed coverage of" the classic Scottish malt whisky producers, and distilleries around the world including Ireland, North Americas and Japan.

The pleasure of whisky - how to enjoy and appreciate whisky with the help of Michael Jackson's unique tasting notes and unrivalled knowledge of whisky culture. Michael Jackson goes in search of whiskies, from Arran to Oregon and Cooley toYamazaki, to explain the differences and celebrate the diversity of whisky. From using whisky in cocktails and food, to deciding which style to suit your taste, Whisky will help you discover and enhance your passion for the spirit.

Introduction 6

People of Passion 10

UNDERSTANDING WHISKY 12

The Family of Whiskies 14

The Family of Distilled Drinks 16

The Enjoyment of Whisky 18

Whisky in Literature 20

AROMAS & FLAVOURS  22

The Influence of Climate 24

Geology 26

Water 30

Heather 32

Sea Breeze and

Seaweed 34

Barley 36

Peat 40

Malting 44

Commercial Malting 50

Yeast and Fermentation 56

Pot Stills 58

Column Stills 64

The Influence of Wood 68

Maturation: the Warehouse 76

A Traditional Distillery 78

Blending andVatting 80

How to Nose and Taste 84

THE WHISKY COUNTRIES 86

SCOTLAND 88

The Lowlands 98

TheWestern Highlands 106

Islay and the Islands 114

The Northern Highlands

and Inverness 132

Speyside 144

The Eastern Highlands 170

Vatted Malts 176

Great Blends 178

IRELAND 182

Cork 186

The Irish Midlands 190

Dublin 192

Cooley 194

Bushmills 196