Here's lesson number two. Last time we covered the basics of some terminology, labeling and production. Now, how to enjoy it properly.
When you order a whiskey, there are a few ways to go. You can certainly order something mixed, like a bourbon and Coke, or a Jameson and ginger. There are great whiskey forward cocktails, like the Old Fashioned. However if you're drinking a quality (and usually more expensive) whiskey you want to savor, don't mix it with anything and try it as is.
A whiskey 'neat' means by itself at room temperature in a glass.
A whiskey with 'rocks' means on ice. I'm here to tell you not to do this.
I'm not sure why it's such a prevalent thing, but whiskey doesn't need ice. In fact, it's better without it. Bringing the temperature of whiskey down dulls the flavors and I want to taste them. If you need ice to make it palatable, then maybe the whiskey isn't for you. (If I sound elitist here, I don't care.) Obviously whiskey cocktails can and often should have ice. Something you can do with neat whiskey is add room temperature water. This decreases the ABV, limiting the burn somewhat, and can even change the flavors in some (generally more oily) whiskeys. Just don't add too much, usually a few drops will do.
Drinking whiskey is a sensory experience, and more than just taste. Smell plays a big part and that's where glassware comes in. Even though a lowball glass works (and is even preferred for many cocktails), drinking out of a glass with a narrow opening allows better nosing beforehand and forces you to smell the whiskey while you drink it. The famous example of this is the 'Glencairn' though there are various similar styles. All the standard Glencairn glasses I own came from visiting distilleries, but you can buy them too. The Canadian Glencairn is my go-to, we got it at Crate and Barrel.
Okay. It's the end of the day. Tonight we're home, so I'll fix myself something. Maybe it's been an easy day, or a stressful one. Let's pour a wee dram, neat in a glass. Pick it up and smell it if you want. Take a sip with your lips barely open. After taking some in your mouth, close it and swirl the whiskey over your tongue for a few seconds. While still closed, swallow, then immediately open and exhale. The flavors will hit you where the whiskey touched your tongue and you'll feel the warming feeling and burn in your throat. The exhale accentuates the sensations. It's altogether lovely if you do it right.
Hopefully this all wasn't all a bit ridiculous to you and you'll give it a try. Til next time.
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