There are loads of traditions and standards in the alcohol world. You must do this and you mustn’t do this. But scotch is served in so many different ways that people have forgotten what tradition suggests. Those who are suckers for tradition and want to try scotch like their ancestors are in the right place. Let’s find out not only how scotch is traditionally served but also some alternatives to consider this year.
We hate to break it to those who can’t do neat drinks, but this is tradition when it comes to scotch too. Put the ice back in the freezer and turn the tap off. Neat allows you to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of the scotch without being diluted or altered by other elements. You aren’t alone if the thought of drinking scotch with no help makes you shudder. Those who can tend to have the required taste buds (or have trained themselves over many years).
Our alternatives below are great (if we say so ourselves!). But please do give neat scotch a go because you might just surprise yourself, and those around you as they stare on in amazement.
You’ll see cool characters on TV asking for a scotch on the rocks and this means with some ice. This method can be a great way to dilute stronger scotches or to add a refreshing touch during hot weather. Some experts argue that adding ice can numb the taste buds and dull the full experience of the drink. But you’ll need to decide this for yourself (sorry!). You can also get whiskey stones that sit in the fridge and take the edge off scotch when you need it without diluting the whiskey like ice.
You can cut out the middleman and put some water in your whiskey. This method can help open up the flavors and aromas of the drink, making it more enjoyable to savor. The added water also helps to bring down the alcohol content. You’ll bring scotch down from an extreme alcoholic drink to a mellow one.
More people are watching endless YouTube videos to learn about mixology. Mixologists and bartenders are experimenting with different ingredients to create unique and delicious cocktails using scotch as the base. This is a fun and creative way to enjoy scotch while also breaking away from tradition. Buy a mixing set this year and give it a go.
You might also want to add some ginger ale or soda water in your next online grocery delivery. This is a great way to add some fizz and flavor to the drink without being too overpowering. However, traditionalists may frown upon this method as it deviates from the pure taste of scotch. But hey, who says you have to follow tradition all the time? Choose a top shelf scotch like Laphroaig for best results.
One of the big no-nos when it comes to scotch is mixing it with cola. This popular combination may be taboo for many scotch lovers, as the sweetness of the cola can overpower and mask the delicate flavors of the drink. However, at the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference and what you enjoy drinking.