Overview
- Whiskey suits various occasions, from cozy gatherings to lively parties, and is popular in Filipino culture.
- Drinking whiskey the right way involves certain styles such as drinking it neat, adding water or ice, and experiencing with mixers.
Whiskey is the perfect drink for any occasion, whether you're hosting a cozy get-together or a lively party. This versatile drink is also a crowd-favorite for Filipino gatherings.
With a wide range of flavors—from light and fruity to rich and smoky—as well as varying ages and proofs, whiskey offers something different for everyone.
From sipping it neat to mixing it in a cocktail, there are so many ways to enjoy whiskey. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at how to drink whiskey the right way, helping you make the most out of every sip.
Drinking Neat
Drinking whiskey neat means savoring it straight—no ice, water, or additives—allowing the full depth of flavors to shine, from bold to subtle notes. Serving whiskey at room temperature enhances these flavors further.
Though any glass works, a Glencairn glass or tumbler can concentrate the whiskey's aroma, enriching the experience. Sipping slowly reveals its layered flavors for a more enjoyable tasting experience.
If you want to try a hand at drinking your whiskey neat, you can check out labels such as Johnnie Walker Black Label or a classic Jack Daniels from our curated list here at Ralph’s Wine & Spirits.
Adding Water or Ice
Another way to enjoy whiskey is by adding water or ice. This approach changes the whiskey’s taste, making it a great starting point for those new to the world of whiskey.
Adding a few drops of water can open up the whiskey's flavors, making it smoother and revealing hidden notes. To avoid overpowering your drink, it's best to add water gradually.
Drinking whiskey with ice is another way to enjoy your whiskey drink. Drinking whiskey with ice, or on the rocks, cools it down and dilutes it gradually as the ice melts. If you are looking for something milder, this style might be for you.
Try whiskey with water or on the rocks with labels such as Macallan 12yo Double Cask or Glen Moray Single Malt Classic Chardonnay Finish here at Ralph’s Wine & Spirits.
Experimenting with Mixers
If you're looking to enjoy whiskey but want a milder experience, combining it with mixers can be a great way to start your whiskey journey.
Simple cocktails like whiskey sours or highballs, which blend whiskey with soda or ginger ale, are excellent choices. These mixers can enhance the flavor while softening the whiskey's intensity, making for a refreshing glass that's easy to enjoy.
To get started, you can experiment with some of the labels in our collection such as Mars Iwai Blended Whiskey or John Lee Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky.
How Do You Taste a Whiskey?
Knowing how to drink whiskey also means knowing how to taste it. This art form involves engaging your senses to appreciate the complexity and flavors found in each pour.
Prepare Your Glass
To truly appreciate the various ways to enjoy whiskey, choosing the right glass is recommended. Preparing the right glass can add to the flavor and aroma of your drink. When tasting a whiskey, a Glencairn glass or a similar tasting glass works well.
These glasses have a wider bottom for swirling and a narrow top that helps concentrate the aromas, which can make your tasting experience even better.
Inhale the Scent
After preparing the glass, it’s time to pour and enjoy your whiskey. Start by gently swirling the whiskey in the glass to aerate it; this simple action helps release its aromas and prepares your senses for tasting.
Take a moment to appreciate the scent before you take a sip. You can use the dip-in, dip-out method, alternating between sniffing and pulling away to avoid overwhelming your senses with the alcohol fumes.
Take Your First Sip
Before taking your first sip, it is best to take a moment to enjoy the various aromas of your chosen whiskey. Consider how the different scents interact with each other and how that can add to the whiskey’s overall taste and character.
As you do this, you might pick up on subtle notes, like hints of caramel, vanilla, or spice. Each aroma adds to the whiskey's unique profile and offers insights into its aging process and ingredients.
Observe the Aftertaste
As you sip your whiskey, let it sit in your mouth for a moment to fully experience the flavors interacting with your taste buds. Pay attention to the whiskey’s mouthfeel—does it feel smooth, oily, or dry? This will help you identify and appreciate the various flavors present in the whiskey.
Key Takeaway
By knowing how to drink whiskey properly, you can now start on your whiskey journey.
Enjoy a glass of whiskey today with Ralph’s Wine & Spirits. Our curated selection is the perfect match for all your whiskey needs. Visit one of our stores or browse our collection online!
