What is the best way to get used to drinking Scotch Whisky?

Question

I know that its pretty tough to just pick up a bottle of single malt and start drinking it straight. I have heard that some people get used to it by starting with half water, then reducing the amount of water they add, then drinking it on the rocks, then finally drinking it like you are supposed to. Some people say to start with a blend before going to a single malt but I just don't know. I like the idea of tasting scotch whisky as a little hobby, but want to be able to enjoy it from the beginning without ruining the taste. Any advice?

Answer 1

First, read about it. If you know the process and the unique qualities of a single malt or blend, then it becomes an adventure, not just a drink. Go to www.maltmaniacs.org you will find out a lot of things in this one website alone.



Second, you don't DRINK single malt. You sip it. Because that is the only way to really appreciate their unique character.



Third, try it neat first (nothing added). If it is too strong for you, add a few drops of water and sip again until your palate starts to accomodate the taste. Never put ice on it. Ice are used for bad- tasting blends to cover the taste.



Fourth, you can appreciate the taste of good scotch by its nose (smell). If it is offensive on your nose, you don't have to drink it because you probably will not like it. If you close your eyes and nose a single malt and experience small colorful flavour fairies dancing in your head, you can be assured that you will like that malt.



Last, try the sweeter or sherried single malts first like Macallan or Aberlour (around 43% alcohol, don't get cask strength which is 56-60% alcohol). If you like it, I recommend you try Laphroaig and Lagavulin next. Then your adventure truly begins. You will never look back.



If you want to start with blended scotch, try Johnnie Walker Black or Gold. They are good blends. Johnnie Walker Blue label is also very good and probably better but too expensive.

Answer 2

This Site Might Help You.



RE:

What is the best way to get used to drinking Scotch Whisky?

I know that its pretty tough to just pick up a bottle of single malt and start drinking it straight. I have heard that some people get used to it by starting with half water, then reducing the amount of water they add, then drinking it on the rocks, then finally drinking it like you are supposed...

Answer 3

Best Scotch To Start With

Answer 4

How To Drink Scotch

Answer 5

First, I have to say it's scotch whisky (no E!)



Now...if you're serious about experiencing the wonderful world of scotch, but concerned about it being a bit too "hard-core" of a drink, I'd suggest starting with a Glenlivet or Glenfiddich, as they are nice single malts, which are not too overpowering, nor terribly expensive. Filtered or spring water (never use tap!) is used to "open" the whisky, releasing aromas and flavors that you might not notice if you take your dram neat (nothing added.) Just be careful not to overdo it.



And, as previously mentioned, scotch is not an alcohol to be chugged. There are alot of congeners in whisky, which give it its unique taste, but also can give you a wicked hangover!

Answer 6

A single malt isn't just something you drink to get high. And it's experience is not restricted to the drink per se. A good single malt (Laphroig, mcallan, ardbeg, bowmore etc) is best enjoyed with a splash of water and no ice, but more importantly it's best enjyed in your own living room, surrounded by good conversation, good food and comfortable furniture

Answer 7

There is no reason to attempt to acquire a taste for something you do not enjoy. I understand that you like the IDEA of drinking single malt, but your palate is at odds with your ego. Let it go, who do you have to impress? You're not in high-school (hopefully) anymore, so follow your own drumbeat. If people you admire or respect are drinking single malt, and you feel like joining them for the company, have some wine instead. Hell have whatever floats your boat, and if they are too snooty to respect your individual tastes, find some friends worth associating with.

Answer 8

First of all Scotch WHISKEY is spelled with an "e" before the y. Irish whisky lacks the E. Now, do you know any people that have already bought some good quality bottles of whiskey? Ask them if you can have a little tasting party. People have widely differing opinions on what is a "good" whiskey. My favorite is called Bunnahabhain (BOON a ha ven) The name is a gaelic spelling and I don't know what it means. Another good one is Tamdhu.



Start by pouring a dram over some ice and letting it chill a minute. Then just start sipping. You'll be warm and toasty in no time at all. Enjoy!

Answer 9

Try Scotch and Water first.

Answer 10

As the other answer says, it is a personal taste thing however, Johnny Walker Black I like on the rocks or with a little soda. Chevas Regal however is strictly on the rocks

Answer 11

Drinking it very often. I got used to it like that. It also depends on which whisky you are drinking, because Dewars suck. My favorite: Black Label

Answer 12

I would have to say, just keep drinking it. I got used to Bacardi 151 that way.

Answer 13

good god man!

Why would you want to do a thing like that?



If you don't like then don't drink it... If you like it then drink it...



If you try to force yourself to like it you are going to develop an alcohol problem... And believe me! you don't want one of those!

Answer 14

Like with any GOOD Liquor....drink it straight........drink it slow..........and drink it responsibly. And that my friend is the best answer I can give to you so, drink up and ENJOY!!!!

Answer 15

Practice, practice, practice.

Answer 16

DON'T