Whisky Words: Barley

An annual plant of the grass family, similar to wheat, with culms just over 60 cm long, elongated, flexible, slightly arched ears, and a pot-bellied seed, pointed at both ends and attached to the husk, ending in a long awn. Among other uses, it is used in the production of whisky or beer.

Barley is the principal raw material in the whisky-making process in Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and other regions, and as such, its quality and consistency are of utmost importance. It is one of the three key ingredients of Scotch whisky. It provides the starch which then becomes alcohol.

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Barley is classified by species:

• Hordeum distichum: Used primarily for brewing beer.

• Hordeum hexastichum: Used primarily as animal feed.

Taxonomy

6-row barley

2-row barley

Its specific varieties include Optic, Golden Promise, Concerto, and Laureate, which are some of the most well-known in the Scotch whisky industry.

There are many barley varieties based on their use and yield. If you'd like to learn more about the classification and varieties of barley used in whisky, we invite you to inquire about our courses.

Bottom line: Barley is key to the whisky-making process; it provides the starch that is later converted into alcohol. There are different varieties, and it is harvested all over the world.