The Terroir of Whiskey: A Distiller's Journey Into the Flavor of Place

The Terroir of Whiskey explores how innovative whiskey producers are capturing a sense of place to create distinctive, nuanced flavors. It highlights a new generation of distillers, plant breeders, and local farmers who are bringing back long-forgotten grain flavors and creating new ones in pursuit of terroir.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 16 August 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

In the world of wine, one can often find a reference to the terroir on the back label of a bottle. Terroir refers to the comprehensive local environment of the vineyard that produced the grapes, encompassing everything from the soil to the climate. Winemakers widely acknowledge that the location where a grape is grown has a significant impact on its chemistry, which, in turn, influences the flavor of the wine. A detailed system has been established to recognize the importance of place in wine. However, why don't we hold the same belief when it comes to whiskey?

In his book, "The Terroir of Whiskey," master distiller Rob Arnold delves into how innovative whiskey producers are re-establishing a sense of place to create distinctive and nuanced flavors. He takes readers on a global journey of whiskey, exploring the science behind flavor and stopping at distilleries in various locations such as Kentucky, New York, Texas, Ireland, and Scotland. Arnold shines a spotlight on a new generation of distillers, plant breeders, and local farmers who are reviving long-forgotten grain flavors and creating new ones in pursuit of terroir. In the 20th century, we inadvertently bred distinct tastes out of grains in favor of high yields, but today's artisans are working to break free from the commodity grain system, resurrect heirloom cereals, bring new varieties to life, and recapture the flavors of specific local ingredients.

The Terroir of Whiskey makes a compelling case for the importance of terroir in whiskey, just as it is in wine. It explores the scientific aspects of terroir and how it contributes to the unique flavors of whiskey. It also delves into the cultural significance of terroir and how it has shaped the whiskey-making traditions of different regions. By recognizing the terroir of whiskey, we can appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication of the producers who strive to create exceptional spirits that reflect the essence of their local surroundings.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231194594