Whiskey (or “whisky,” as some countries prefer the spelling) is an iconic cocktail ingredient as the base for Old Fashioneds, Manhattans and other classics. But it’s also ideal for sipping straight, whether neat or adjusted with a splash of water or a cube of ice.
The grain-based spirit, which encompasses variations depending on where it’s made, is produced worldwide. In some regions, the mash bill (recipe of grains) is strictly regulated. For example, in the United States, bourbon must be at least 51% corn, while rye must be at least 51% grain. Meanwhile, single malts, particularly Scotland’s Scotch, are all or mostly malted barley. Irish whiskey, Canadian, Tennessee whiskey and Japanese whisky, among others, all boast characteristics that set them apart from one another.
But while each of these whiskeys has distinctive nuances, they have much in common, too. In particular, the flavors often spotlight the underlying grains and the contributions of barrel aging, specifically vanilla and caramel tones and spice. (Note: whiskey also includes some unaged variations, like America’s moonshine or white whiskey.)
But what makes a whiskey suitable for sipping? According to the pros, it’s about finding a spirit that you want to spend a little time with.
What Is the Best Sipping Whiskey?
The best sipping whiskeys are ones that are either soft or bold. Soft in the sense that you can enjoy a glass without it being too invasive to your senses. Bold in the sense that it triggers you to evaluate flavors. Anything that falls in the middle is distracting.
Robin Robinson, author of The Complete Whiskey Course, adds that a sipping whiskey “should be familiar, like a favorite chair or piece of clothing, something you put on easily and feel immediately at home with.” Further, “it should call to mind a special place or time in your life with a friend or loved one—and all the better if they’re there sipping it with you.”
What’s the Right Way to Enjoy Sipping Whiskey?
Sipping neat is a good introduction to whiskey, but it isn’t necessarily the smoothest experience. Adding a splash (or more) of water or an ice cube to chill and melt slowly can help mellow the edge of higher-proof whiskeys, as well as unlock additional nuance in the aroma and flavor. Traditional orders like “bourbon and branch water” and “whiskey and water” have evolved for good reason.
Is Single-Malt Scotch the Only Sipping Whiskey?
Hardly. While single-malt Scotch is a beautiful thing, it’s not the only one worthy of sipping straight. Frankly, it’s a misperception that since many single malts are relatively rare or expensive the category equals the “best” bottle. In fact, quite a few people prefer to enjoy smooth blended Scotch, which combines distillate from multiple Scotch distilleries. And if it’s single malt you seek, consider giving American single malts and bottles from around the world a pour.
