Making Whisky: Literature and Craftsmanship for Engineers!

I expected that creating a whisky would be completely different from anything I’ve done in my professional life. However, I didn’t expect it to call upon my engineering background!

The last time I touched an industrial process was when I was a student at the École de technologie supérieure (ETS). Yet, I get the feeling that my good old DEC (diploma of college studies) in instrumentation and control will be quite useful in developing my distillery project!

An engineer's instinct is like riding a bike—you never lose it! So, to learn how to make whisky, I had the same reflex I had at ETS: head to the bookstore and crack open some books!

All that was left was to put together a reading list on the art of distilling, and improvise myself as a columnist for Plus on est fou, plus on lit (The crazier we are, the more we read), or if you prefer, Plus on est fou, plus on whisky!

My Essential Reading

I devoured Matt Strickland's books. He is my favourite author when it comes to demystifying whisky, bringing all his background as the master distiller from Distillerie Côte des Saints, based in Mirabel.

In Batch Distillation: Science and Practice, Matt shares his experiences while discussing the science behind the distillation process. Furthermore, he makes it all accessible as an educator, thanks to his experience teaching whisky production at the Distilled Spirits Epicentre in Kentucky!

Next, to better understand the essential ingredients for making whisky, I recommend a series of books written by experts, including John Mallett, which cover the importance and processes surrounding water, yeast, and malt.

• Malt: A Practical Guide from Field to Brewhouse

• Yeast: The Practical Guide to Beer Fermentation

• Water: A Comprehensive Guide for Brewers

Mallett is a well-known name in the craft beer world, thanks to his experience with Bell’s Brewery since 2001. His books are industry references, and there’s even a scholarship named after him to help emerging brewers!

When it comes to whisky innovations, I suggest Darek Bell's book, Alt Whiskeys. Bell is the founder of Corsair Distillery, based in Nashville, and he is renowned for his innovative recipes creating spirits with novel grains! His goal is to expand the distillers' flavour palette by approaching it creatively. It’s fascinating!

Finally, I recommend another book by Matt Strickland: Cask Management for Distillers. In this essay, Matt talks about the importance of barrel management and the role this process plays in the maturation of whisky. Did you know that the choice of a barrel offers endless options in creating a whisky's flavour profile?

What are your suggestions for books about whisky?

-Martin