Drink Warehouse UK Blogs

Published on August 18, 2023.

Explore the different flavours of Whisky as well as Busker Irish Whiskey 

Whisky. What a magnificent spirit and with hundreds of years history, no wonder it is so delicious. Derived from the Gaelic word which reads ‘uisge beatha’, which translates as the ‘water of life’, Whisky has been crafted throughout the world and has always won over the hearts of consumers. There are several whisky regions including Scottish, American, Canadian, Germany, Irish, Australian and Indian, all varying in techniques and added ingredients; however, whisky is traditionally a spirit that is distilled from malted grain, including barley, corn, rye and wheat. 

Let’s cover the basics… every whisky is different, the individuality of each drink is able to appeal to a large number of people. There are 5 main types of whisky: Scotch, Bourbon, Irish, Canadian and Japanese. All variations have different regulations on production and combined with local ingredients and agriculture. For example: Bourbon must be made in the US, with at least 51% of the spirit made from corn and no additives. except water, are allowed. It must be aged in charred new-oak barrels for at least 2 years to be called ‘straight’ bourbon. If these procedures are not followed, the drink cannot class itself as bourbon. 

Whisky or whiskey? 

Neither is the wrong way to spell it (unless you are biased). Historically, different regions just have different spellings. Whisky is generally Scotland, Canada and Japan, whereas, Ireland and the US typically add the ‘e’. 

The Royal Oak Distillery is a world-class distillery producing crafted Irish whiskey. Located in the 18th century estate in Ireland’s Ancient East region, in the heart of the barley growing territory, Royal Oak distillery produces the entire Busker range. With the vast outdoors and fresh ingredients at their doorstep, they can bring the finest quality all from the surrounding area. 

With all three styles – pot still, malt and grain – under one roof, Busker can carefully craft each independent whiskey to perfection, giving each an unique character. Busker pride themselves on innovation and authenticity to bring a great balance of tradition and cultivation. One modern technique during the maturation stage includes using different casks throughout including Bourbon, Marsala and Sherry casks. 


Busker Triple Cask Triple Smooth Irish Whiskey expressions mature in rare and specially selected Cantine Florio (1833) Sicilian Marsala wine casks giving the drink a slightly sweeter flavour as well as giving peach and apricot aromas. It gives a beautiful golden colour with a rich, vanilla body. Subtle notes of cinnamon and toffee add to the intensity to bring a mellow, well-balanced finish. Busker Irish Whisky is fantastic for new or experienced whiskey drinkers and DWUK are proud to stock them. 

Whisky Flavour Guide

What flavour Whisky do you look for?

Light in flavour and colour, aged in uncharred barrels. DWUK recommends Dalwhinnie 15YO 70cl 

Softer with subtlety, elegance and finesse. DWUK recommends Glenfiddich 12YO 70cl 

Warming with flavours of honey and vanilla. DWUK recommends Woodford Reserve 70cl 

Characterful with peaty flavours. DWUK recommends Suntory Hibiki 70cl 

 Different from rich, yet still peaty with an ashy flavour. DWUK recommends Oban 14YO Scotch 70cl

Spiciness often hits at the end of the palette. DWUK recommends Knob Creek 9YO 70cl 

Dried fruit followed by honeycomb sweetness, apricots, lemon zest, prunes and oak spice. 

(70cl)

An exceptionally smooth finish. with the taste of sweet vanilla, fruit and light spice with a crisp, clean finish. (70cl)

Smooth and elegant, our whisky is easy-going and delicious however you drink it, with flavours of citrus, peach, apricot and spice. (70cl)

Share this article

About the author

Chloe Lewis

Chloe looks after all copywriting and proof-reading for Drink Warehouse UK, working with the Marketing team to deliver educational content to all our customers. She has spent many years in the hospitality sector, moving from behind the bar to now helping venues to stock their own. You can find more from Chloe about beer, cider, spirits, wine, non-alcoholic, soft drinks and RTDs all over our blogs, website, social media and Set The Bar magazine. 

Click here to receive the latest and greatest promotions, new products, competitions and so much more straight to your inbox.