There is more to drinking whiskey than pouring it in a glass and gulping it down. Whiskey deserves to be appreciated by all of the senses.
If you’re new to drinking whiskey, you may be wondering what the best way to drink whiskey is. How much should you drink? Should I drink whiskey on the rocks? What does whiskey neat mean?
Don’t worry fellow whiskey lovers because we’re here to answer all of your burning questions about our favorite spirit.
What is the best way to drink whiskey?
The answer to this question is up for debate. Some people prefer to drink whiskey neat, which means not adding any water or ice. Just simply pour it into a glass and sip it. This allows you to fully appreciate and savor all the flavors and aromas of the whiskey.
Others like to add water or ice to a glass of whiskey to reveal subtle flavors that might have gone unnoticed if the whiskey was drank solo. Be careful not to over dilute your whiskey with water. Add a few drops at a time so the whiskey doesn’t get overpowered by the water.
If you prefer to drink your whiskey cold but don’t want to add ice, then pop it in the fridge before hand. You can also purchase a whiskey stone or steel ball that you keep in the freezer and add to your glass of whiskey. These tools work as ice cubes but don’t melt and won’t dilute the alcohol.
How do beginners drink whiskey?
If you’re new to drinking whiskey, we recommend trying it neat. The point of drinking whiskey is to taste it, and there's no better way to do so than by sipping it solo. If this is too harsh for you, then add in a few ice cubes and let them melt. The water will dilute the spicy flavors of the whiskey and make it easier to drink without any burn.
What should whiskey be mixed with?
If you just can’t handle the potent flavor of whiskey, then you can always add a mixer. This is a good way to drink whiskey without feeling a burning sensation. The most popular non-alcoholic drinks to mix with whiskey are lemonade, club soda, apple cider, coke, and coffee. Yep, you read that right. Whiskey-spiked coffee, also known as Irish Coffee, is sweetened with simple syrup and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. This cozy drink is sure to warm you from the inside out.
What is a good whiskey for drinking on the rocks?
If you want to drink whiskey on the rocks, aka with ice, then make sure you get a good quality bottle. Here are five excellent whiskeys for enjoying on the rocks.
Hibiki Harmony Suntory Japanese Whiskey
"Kanzen" or complete, Hibiki® Whisky is a harmonious blend of innumerous malt and grain whiskies which are meticulously blended to create a full orchestra of flavors and aromas. Seductive, blossoming and enigmatic, Hibiki® Whisky celebrates an unrivaled art of blending, fine craftsmanship and a sense of luxury from the House of Suntory.
This classic Speyside from Glenfiddich was the Winner of a Gold Medal at the 2007 International Wine and Spirit Competition, aged for 12 years in American and European Oak casks. With aromas like malt, fruit, honey, and citrus this is an excellent whiskey for enjoying on the rocks. It has a light, smooth palate with a sweet oaky finish.
Templeton Rye Whiskey 4 Year
Templeton Rye 4 Year is the perfect intro to the Templeton portfolio. This medium bodied rye shows aromas of dried grass and rye spice. Flavors of caramel and butterscotch candy meld with light rye spice and a hint of vanilla. Exceptionally smooth rye whiskey
Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select
The Woodford Reserve brand comes from a storied past. It’s distilled and bottled at the the old Labrot & Graham’s Distillery, which started operations in 1780. This whiskey has been labeled as 'the new breed of bourbon.'
Makers Mark is less spicy than the rye-influenced whiskeys. Bring a glass to your nose. You'll smell spiced honey, cut fruit and citrus peel. Have a sip. Barley malt, butterscotch and vanilla bean will gradually bloom on your tongue. Wait a moment. The finish is of medium length with gentle caramel and dry oak spice.
What is the best time to drink whiskey?
The best time to drink whiskey is whenever you feel like drinking whiskey. Feel like making your morning unforgettable? Then make yourself an Irish Coffee. Had a long day at work? Come home and make a whiskey on the rocks to relax and unwind.
How much whiskey should you drink?
As always, it’s important to consume alcohol in moderation. Health experts explain moderation as one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. Keep in mind, whiskey has a high alcohol by volume content ranging from around 40%-65%, so one glass of whiskey may leave you feeling quite buzzed if you’re not used to drinking it.
