When was whisky discovered?

There is no specific date or event that marks the "discovery" of whisky, as the production and consumption of distilled spirits has a long and varied history. The origins of whisky can be traced back to the ancient practice of distillation, which was known in various parts of the world throughout history.

Evidence suggests that the distillation of alcohol was practiced in Mesopotamia and Egypt as early as the 2nd millennium BC. However, the earliest known distilled spirits resembling whisky are believed to have originated in medieval Europe, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, sometime around the 15th century. Monasteries and early alchemists played a significant role in the development of distillation techniques during this period.

The term "whisky" itself is derived from the Gaelic word "uisge beatha," which translates to "water of life." Over time, the production of whisky spread to other regions, including North America, where it became popular among early settlers. The methods of distilling and aging whisky evolved and refined throughout the centuries, giving rise to the various styles and flavors of whisky we know today.