Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 1 Award in Spirits Practice Exam

Whiskey is primarily made from grains, which are fermented to produce alcohol. The grains most commonly used in whiskey production include barley, corn, and rye. Each of these grains contributes distinct flavors and characteristics to the final spirit.

Barley is essential for many traditional Scotch whiskies, where it is malted and used in the mash. Corn is the primary grain used in bourbon production, providing sweetness and a fuller body to the whiskey. Rye contributes spiciness and complexity, making it popular in certain styles of whiskey, particularly rye whiskey.

In contrast, potatoes are not used in the production of whiskey. Potatoes are typically associated with the production of spirits like vodka, where they can be fermented to create alcohol, but they do not contribute to the grain-based composition required for whiskey. This distinction highlights why potatoes are the correct answer to the question about which ingredient is not typically used to make whiskey.