Whisky isn't just a drink; it's an experience meant to be savoured slowly and gradually. However, many whisky lovers unknowingly commit mistakes that compromise the full flavours and fragrances that the spirit can offer. Whether you are a newbie or an old whisky enthusiast, the very key to enhancing your enjoyment could be simply avoiding a few common mistakes. It is rather simple to imagine just pouring and sipping whisky, but if you pay a bit more attention, it can easily be taken to the next level. Starting with the right glass, right temperature, and many other nuances will make the difference. So, next time you enjoy a whisky, take some time to learn what you might be doing wrong and how to perfect your whisky experience.
Also read: Top 10 Smoothest Whisky In India: A Guide For Beginners
Too Much Ice
The most common mistake whisky drinkers commit is adding too much ice to their glass. Besides chilling a drink, ice also dilutes the whisky somewhat, muting its complex flavours and aromas. Don't do the dumping in with several cubes; instead, choose one cube, and even better, a whisky stone. Whisky stones are purposely made to cool the drink without diluting the whisky, which allows you to experience the full range of flavours. Just the right amount of ice will chill a drink without diluting it too much and preserve the whisky's character in all its details, so one can appreciate the nuances that make that particular malt special.
Tip: If you like your whisky chilled, freeze it or chill it with whisky stones rather than overusing ice.
Overly Widely Brimming Glasses
The glass you are using is important in how you experience your whisky. Many amateurs make the mistake of using tumblers or glasses with wide brims that allow aromas to dissipate much too quickly. To unlock the whisky's full aroma, a similar tulip-shaped or Glencairn glass would have to be the right glass to use. These designs enable you to send the aromas directly into your nostrils and provide a more intense and rich perception of your senses. The shape of the glass could make all the difference in the way one experiences whisky, so this would heighten the savouring of every subtle nuance of scent and flavour.
Tip: Invest in an appropriate glass to heighten the sensory pleasure of your drink.
How to Store Bottles
Whisky might seem like a strong liquor that can thrive under almost any storage condition, but that is very far from the truth. Most people keep their whisky bottles lying down like wine does; however, whisky needs always to be stored upright. If kept upside down, alcohol will act on the cork and eventually degrade it, thereby changing the taste of the whisky. In addition, whisky does not mature with age if it is sitting in a bottle, so the liquor should be kept in the liquor cabinet by standing the bottles upright in a cool, dark place.
Tip: Keep the bottles of your whiskies standing so the cork, as well as the contents, is protected.
Quality Whisky
The bad news is that one shouldn't use the best bottle of single malt, or good premium whisky for mixing cocktails. A selection of fine whiskies is meant to be drunk and savoured on its own, perhaps with only one drop of water to add just enough moisture to release the full flavour profile. Using top-shelf whisky in a cocktail means that the subtlety of the whisky is overpowered by the mixers you are adding and you miss what makes that whisky so great. Save your best bottles for when you can slowly sip them and appreciate all the subtle nuances.
Tip: Keep the good stuff for sipping and use cheaper stuff for cocktails.
Throwing It Back
Whisky is not something to be gulped down like a shot. For many, the transition to enjoying single malt has been hindered because they gulp the beverage down in a rush and miss all the layers of flavour and aroma that show up over time as the whisky breathes into the glass. Allow your whisky to breathe for a few minutes after pouring. Take time to swirl, take in the aroma, and then sip slowly. Allow the whisky to sit on your palate. Small sips are really the only way to allow for a full appreciation of complexity.
Tip: Never be in a hurry to drink whisky; that's an experience, not a competition.
Ignoring Water
It is really taboo for whisky lovers to add a drop of water to a glass of whisky, but a few drops of water do the trick. It opens up the whisky and consequently brings out flavours and aromas that might not initially appear there. The secret is adding just a few drops of water, and then re-tasting the whisky; in most cases, it will definitely change character in comparison with the previously tasted whisky.
Tip: Don't be afraid to add a little water to your whisky and bring it out of its shell