Whiskey is one of the most sought-after spirits today and the market has grown considerably, so its prices are also becoming more accessible. But the different ways of drinking it raise questions about whether there is a correct way to enjoy and appreciate the flavor of this distinguished liquor.
At this point, the winemaker of shell and bull, Mario Alvarezensures that there is no correct form, since “Being such a friendly and top-quality alcohol, it allows everyone to enjoy it as pleasant as possible”says the specialist.
Of course, it indicates that there are considerations that can help make the enjoyment experience even greater:
Purists suggest that it should be drunk neat, with nothing else, in order to enjoy its different aromas, as well as its complex and elegant flavour.
Others propose adding drops of water, these must be of good quality (not from the tap), this will allow other aromas and sensations to be expressed.
With ice, again the quality of the water is very relevant in order not to damage the quality of the whisky. Ideally, the ice should be large, to avoid excessive dilution, which should be gradual, thereby refreshing the whiskey, awakening another aromatic and flavor palette.
Finally, in mix, accompanying the favorite mixer of each one. Today there is a wide range of possibilities, since mixology enhances pleasure in the drinking experience.
At the recommendation of the winemaker, one of the whiskeys that has stood out in recent times is The Guiligan’s Distinguished100% Scottish, with a combination of 10 selected malts from various regions of Scotland and first class grains, aged in old bourbon barrels.
With a fine and distinguished aroma, with spicy notes that blend smoothly with the barrel, its flavor is soft and creamy, very well accompanied by notes of caramel and black pepper, with a fresh and persistent finish reminiscent of slight hints of orange.
On how to drink this type of whiskey, Mario Álvarez recommends:
When serving, it should be at room temperature, as long as it is around the storage temperature, which is between 18-20°C. Otherwise, it is recommended to cool it to enjoy its attributes, this is valid to taste pure, now if we add ice, we could keep it cold a few hours beforehand.
The role of ice is very relevant, assuring “that it delivers a fresher version, awakens another range of aromas and flavors in the whiskey, but it should ideally be large so that it lasts and accompanies us in each sip and is not just the dilution of this distillate.
Regarding cocktails, the winemaker recommends each and every one of them, from the whiskey sour, through its most current variant such as the Mule, or the classics of always. The objective is to find the perfect meeting point between the cocktail to be enjoyed, the consumption occasion, and the taster, always having to be a pleasant experience.
And for those who want to start the path of whiskey tasting, or those who seek to specialize their palate trying to identify a good quality one, the Concha y Toro winemaker warns that it cannot be a stroke of alcohol that governs everything, in its Judgment must be friendly, both on the nose and on the mouth.
The aroma is a key point when deciding, looking for aromatic complexity and balance with the flavor. However, the specialist’s invitation is to dare and come up with a perfect blend that is personal, delivering the best experience to enjoy whiskey.