With or without?
Neat, with ice, water or even a mixer - what’s the best way to enjoy your Classic Malts?
Our advice is to try each of the different routes until you find the one that best suits your tastes. Your preferences may also change depending on the Classic Malt you’re drinking, the people you’re with, or even the occasion.
Whatever you do, start by tasting a Single Malt neat or straight. You may find you never need to try it any other way.
WITH WATER
Adding water to any single malt changes the composition of the spirit and unlocks more flavours and aromas.
Ideally, the water added would be the same as that used by the distillery to make the whisky. But that’s not easy to do, especially if you enjoy your single malt outside of Scotland. The best bet is to add still Scottish spring water, or soft tap water without too many added chemicals. The key is to add a little water at a time, taking it slowly until you find the balance to suit your tastes.
WITH ICE
Adding ice to a Single Malt can certainly make it a more refreshing drink.
However, if you want to appreciate the more subtle qualities of a Classic Malt, it’s worth remembering that the coldness of the ice can sometimes reduce the aromas and flavours present in the whisky.
WITH A MIXER
Adding soda, ginger ale or lemonade to your whisky, or any type of mixer, can bring a fresh approach to the enjoyment of a Single Malt. You may even have seen Single Malt Scoth Whiskies used in cocktails. However, you may find that Blended Scotch Whiskies, such as Johnnie Walker Red Label, are much better suited to this role.
Before a meal
Classic Malts can make the perfect aperitif.
Those whiskies with lighter, more delicate tastes and aromas such as fresh cut grass and fresh fruits can deliver a refreshing pre-dinner drink, cleansing your palate before you eat. As an unusual twist, but one that is growing in popularity, you may even want to consider chilling the whisky prior to serving. This is particularly enjoyable with Glenkinchie 12 Year Old.
With Food
Why not try your Single Malt Scotch Whiskies alongside foods that compliment the taste of the whisky.
Whether it be the Classic Malts served with canapés, desserts, cheese, or even as part of a whisky dinner, there are taste combinations for you to enjoy.
Click here for some simple ideas.