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The History of Whiskey

July 21, 2026 · 25 min

Show notes

From medieval monasteries and royal courts to hidden Highland stills, American rebellion and the global revival of premium spirits, whiskey has travelled a remarkable road. Discover how distillation developed, why Ireland and Scotland created different traditions, how taxation encouraged generations of smugglers, and how migrants carried whiskey-making across the Atlantic. We also explore the rise of bourbon, the devastation caused by Prohibition and war, the emergence of Japanese whisky, and the modern industry that turns grain, water, yeast, oak and time into one of the world's most celebrated drinks.

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