The art of drinking whisky

Drinking whisky is a religion on its own. And you have people becoming best of friends and worst of enemies - all for a peg of Scotch. How you would ask? There is Malt whisky, Grain whisky, and blended whisky – and then you have the American, Indian, Canadian, Australian… and the mother of all – the Scottish whisky.

Whisky lovers have their favourites, and yet again each has his style of drinking the most celebrated spirit in the world; and they wouldn’t mind standing by their favourite version and will even wage a war for its sake.

We have heard stories of best friends parting ways as one of them was found to have mixed water to his drink, unlike the classic version of having it on the rocks (True story with no exaggeration) – such is the loyalty.

However, it should be noted that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to drink whisky – it is very much down to a question of personal taste. However, here are few basic suggestions.

Many who drink whisky neat say they do not want to spoil the taste by adding water. However, equally, as many will say that adding a touch of water, particularly if it is pure, soft spring water, (ideally the same spring water used in the making of the particular whisky!) serves to enhance the distinctive aroma and flavour of a whisky.

Tap water may contain high amounts of chlorine and therefore would not complement any whisky - your best bet is to opt for bottled Scottish mineral water when having Scotch!

Adding ice to a whisky can provide a refreshing drink but it should be noted that it will dull the fine taste and wonderful aromas and so should never be contemplated when conducting a “whisky nosing and tasting.” Similarly, carbonated water is not an ideal accompaniment for whisky as it will also interfere with the aromas.

The addition of mixers such as ginger ale, soda and even Coca-Cola, is a popular trend, however it does beg the question - why drink whisky at all if you need to mask the taste? Yet again – that’s what the purists say.

The modernists have a different take. Yes, whisky is as good as its aroma, yet what is the use if you cannot enjoy it. And so, you have the modern blenders conjuring up newer whisky cocktails (by the way you even have classic ones like ‘Whisky Sour’ that are pretty famous).

Enjoy your whisky that way you like it is the new mantra – the only trick is not to overdo and kill the real taste of the divine drink. And DRINK RESPONSIBLY.