The main difference between Scotch and whiskey lies in their geographical origin and production methods. Here's a breakdown of each:

Whiskey:

• Whiskey (also spelled whisky in some countries like Scotland and Canada) is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The grains commonly used in whiskey production include barley, corn, rye, and wheat.
• Whiskey is produced in various countries around the world, including Scotland (Scotch whisky), Ireland (Irish whiskey), the United States (American whiskey, including bourbon and rye), Canada (Canadian whisky), and others.
• Depending on the country of origin and the specific style, whiskey production methods, aging requirements, and flavor profiles can vary significantly.
• In general, whiskey can be made from a variety of grains, and the aging process typically occurs in oak barrels.

Scotch:

• Scotch whisky, often simply referred to as Scotch, is a specific type of whiskey that is produced in Scotland. It must adhere to strict legal and traditional regulations set forth by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).
• Scotch whisky is typically made from malted barley and water. It is distilled in copper pot stills and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years.
• Scotch whisky is further categorized into several subtypes, including single malt Scotch (made from malted barley in a single distillery), blended Scotch (a mixture of malt whisky and grain whisky from different distilleries), and single grain Scotch (made from malted barley and other grains in a single distillery).
• The distinctive flavor of Scotch whisky is influenced by factors such as the type of barley used, the production process, the region of production (which can affect climate and environmental factors), and the aging process in oak barrels.

In summary, while all Scotch is whiskey, not all whiskey is Scotch. Scotch whisky specifically refers to whiskey produced in Scotland according to strict regulations, whereas whiskey is a broader category that encompasses various styles produced in different countries around the world.