Whisky (or whiskey - depending on its origin) is made in many parts of the world. Whisky (without the "e") is produced in Scotland. This is usually referred to as Scotch. All other whiskies are spelled with an "e" to distinguish them from the real thing.

Essentially whisky is distilled from fermented mash made of malted grain. In Scotland it derives much of its rich flavour from peat.

Some of the best known are single malts, which are produced from a particular distillery. While most commercial ones are blended, made from products of several regions.