Whisky is probably the most intimidating drink out there, steeped in history and incredible variety, including some challenging expressions that most beginners are likely to struggle with. Even with the resurgence of Irish whiskey, access to American creations and shedding of the ‘old men pouring dusty bottles with cigars’ image, we still come across the question of ‘is there a correct way to drink whisky?’ a lot.
Well, in a word, the answer is no. As with everything drinks related, it really is down to personal preference, palate, whisky experience, and the bottle itself. If you enjoy it, then it’s correct, no matter how strange. There are no set rules, but there are popular methods and nuances that will help you get the most out of your glass. The key, of course, is to experiment and discover what works for you.
If once you’re done, you want to pick out a whisky, or whiskey (American and Irish) to get started with, then we’re always updating our guides of the best bottles, so take a look here and across the website.
Drinking Whisky Neat
You’ll come across a lot of purists preaching neat drinking. No ice, no water, no mixers, just the dram. This is the simplest way to taste whisky because you’re experiencing the liquid on its own. Often, drinkers will cleanse the palate with some cool water between sips too.
For well-aged, high-end whiskies rich in complexity, this is usually the best way to get the absolute most from the tasting experience. Room temperature whisky tends to bring the most flavour, and with no mixer in the way, you’re able to explore all the subtle notes and depths of the dram.
Of course, if you’re a total newbie, then this might be a bit much because it will be intense and difficult to enjoy, let alone explore.
If you’re wondering how neat drinkers who still desire a chill to their drink achieve this, they use whisky stones to lower the temperature without diluting the dram, which is a neat trick that keeps the drink, well, neat.
Drinking Whisky On The Rocks
On the rocks, or with ice, tames the intensity of whisky initially, and then as it melts, it dilutes and has the same effect as a splash of water. It makes for a far more refreshing experience, so may be more of a summer favourite.
Will you detect the full plethora of notes and complexity? No, probably not, because the ice will dull them a little, but remember, it is only water, and a small amount won’t overpower the whisky whatsoever.
It’s important to consider the measure (single or double… or even triple) and the size and amount of ice. Bigger ice chunks may not be melted by the time you’re finished, but crushed ice will melt very quickly.
Drinking Whisky with a Dash of Water
Adding a dash of water isn’t just about smoothing out the alcohol. It does do that, but with some whiskies it actually enhances the flavour. Whilst the purists enjoy neat drinking, they also embrace a few drops of water because, especially with higher ABV bottles, it really tempts out hidden notes. Even with accustomed dram drainers, a whisky getting towards 60% will numb the senses somewhat, so water really helps unlock some flavours.
How much to add is entirely down to you but remember the golden rule - you can always add more. Some people literally just add a drop or two, so start with tiny amounts, taste, and see if you can notice any differences in aroma, texture, taste, and finish.
Drinking Whisky in Cocktails
Some whiskies are straight up better suited for cocktail mixing. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re worse, just that they’re bold enough to come through and work alongside the other ingredients. Cocktails are a team game after all. Whiskies range massively with fruits, spice, smoke, sweetness, and wood, so they’re versatile when it comes to mixology.
Also, as is the case with pretty much every spirit, cocktails are the best way to ease yourself into whisky. You’re not getting big, in your face hits of the spirit, instead, you’re getting a taste of it, tempered by whatever else is in the cocktail.
A simple Highball (whisky, ice, and mixer) is an accessible and simple place to start, be that with sparkling water, ginger ale, cola, or something else. Other popular whisky cocktails are the Old Fashioned, Manhattan and the Whisky Sour. You can find loads more whisky cocktails in our One Drink, Three Ways section.
One area that whisky leads the way in is hot cocktails, and with comforting flavours and heat surrounding it, it’s a super accessible way to get into the spirit. Irish Coffee and Hot Toddy are two favourites, but also try this Spiced Clementine Mulled Whisky.
