Why Add Alcohol To Scotch?

Scotch is a type of whisky made exclusively in Scotland, and it is known for its complex flavours and aromas. While some Scotch enthusiasts prefer to drink it neat to savour its unique flavours, others add a few drops of water to open up the flavours that may be overshadowed by the alcohol. Adding ice is also an option, as it cools the drink and slightly dilutes it, making it more approachable while retaining its flavour. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to drink Scotch, and it can be enjoyed on its own, mixed with alcoholic or soft drinks, or even paired with food.

Adding water to Scotch

There is no one "right way" to drink Scotch. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or mixed with water or other drinks, the key is to find what brings you joy.

If you find Scotch a little too strong, adding a few drops of water to your glass can help to open up the flavours and make it more accessible. This is especially true for cask-strength Scotch, which typically has a high alcohol content. Adding water can help to reduce the "'burn'" of the alcohol and make it easier to identify the different flavours in the whisky. During a tasting at the Glenkinchie distillery in Scotland, everyone added a small amount of water to their Scotch.

Some Scotch enthusiasts believe that whisky should always be drunk at room temperature, as they feel that this better highlights each individual flavour. Cooling a drink with ice or cold water can suppress dominant alcohol flavours and aromas, making the drink less intense. However, it will also mask some of the flavours that make Scotch distinctive.

If you are drinking Scotch for the first time, it is recommended to try it neat first to fully experience the bottle's character. If the flavour is too strong, you can then add a few drops of water to your glass.

Drinking Scotch on the rocks

Drinking Scotch can be an intimidating experience, especially for beginners. Scotch is often associated with serious drinkers, and its complex flavours and aromas can be off-putting to newcomers. However, there is no need to feel daunted by this spirit. Scotch is for everyone, and there are many ways to enjoy it.

One popular way to drink Scotch is on the rocks, or with ice. This is a good option for those who find the flavour of neat Scotch too strong or harsh. Adding ice to Scotch will dilute the alcohol and slightly dampen the flavours, making the drink more approachable. It can also enhance certain flavours and provide a refreshing twist. If you are new to Scotch, this is a great way to ease into the complexities of the spirit's flavour. However, some Scotch devotees believe that chilling the drink with ice masks the flavours that make Scotch unique.

If you are concerned about diluting your Scotch, you can try adding a few drops of water instead. This will help to open up the flavours that might otherwise be overshadowed by the alcohol. Adding water to your Scotch is common practice and can enhance your enjoyment of the drink. It is also a good option if you are drinking cask-strength Scotch, as it will reduce the alcohol percentage.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to drink Scotch. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail, the key is to find what brings you joy. Scotch is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in many different ways, so feel free to experiment and find the method that suits your taste.

Scotch cocktails

Scotch whisky is an iconic beverage with a complex flavour profile and captivating aroma. While some people enjoy drinking it neat, others prefer it on the rocks or mixed into a cocktail. There is no right or wrong way to drink Scotch, and the key is to find what brings you joy. Here are some Scotch cocktail ideas to get you started:

The Old Fashioned

A timeless classic, this cocktail is a great way to experience the versatility of good Scotch. Simply pour your whisky over ice and add a dash of bitters and a twist of orange peel.

The Paper Plane

A modern and bittersweet whisky drink, the Paper Plane is made with Aperol and Scotch. The two spirits combine to create a unique flavour profile that is both refreshing and intriguing.

The Coco Lime Smash

A tropical concoction, the Coco Lime Smash is made with The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve, a single malt Scotch finished in barrels that previously held Caribbean rum. The result is a drink that is both smooth and refreshing, with a hint of Scotch's signature complexity.

The Whisky Sour

A classic whisky cocktail, the Whisky Sour is made with Scotch, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The tartness of the lemon juice combines with the sweetness of the simple syrup to create a well-rounded drink that is both refreshing and sophisticated.

The Scotch and Soda

A simple yet effective combination, Scotch and soda is a great way to dilute the whisky while adding a desirable fizz. This drink is perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavour of Scotch while also adding a touch of something extra.

So, whether you're a seasoned Scotch drinker or a curious beginner, don't be afraid to experiment with different cocktails and find the ones that bring you the most joy.

Drinking Scotch neat

When drinking Scotch neat, it is recommended to pour a small amount, about 2 ounces (or 60ml), into a glass. A tulip-shaped glass is considered ideal, but any glass can be used. Taking the first sip at room temperature allows one to fully experience the character of the Scotch. If the flavour is too strong, a few drops of water can be added to the glass.

For those who find the alcohol burn of neat Scotch too intense, there are alternatives to consider. Adding a few drops of water to the glass is a common practice, as it helps to tame the burn and open up the flavours. This is especially true for higher-proof Scotches, where a little water can enhance the tasting experience.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to drink Scotch. Whether it's neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail, the key is to find what brings you joy. Scotch is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, and experimentation is encouraged to discover what suits one's personal preference.

Pairing Scotch with food

While Scotch is often enjoyed on its own, it can also be paired with food. However, pairing Scotch with food is not as simple as pairing wine or beer with a meal, as Scotch has a higher alcohol content and a stronger flavour. Nevertheless, here are some suggestions for pairing Scotch with food:

Cheese

A light, spicy single malt Scotch, like Aberlour, pairs well with a light, tangy cheese that is not too heavy, such as Manchego. More flavourful, creamy cheeses, such as goat cheese, pair well with a medium-bodied and fruity Scotch, like Aberlour 12-year-old or Speyside malt. Bold, stronger cheeses, such as Roquefort or Stilton, pair well with older, smokier (or peaty) whiskies, like Laphroaig.

Chocolate

As with cheese, the general rule is to pair sweet Scotch with bitter chocolate and bitter Scotch with sweet chocolate. Milk chocolate with fruit or nuts pairs well with a Scotch that is light with fruity notes.

Nuts

The general rule of thumb for pairing Scotch with nuts is to pair strong Scotch with sweeter nuts, sweeter Scotch with bitter nuts, and roasted nuts with smoky Scotch. For example, sweeter nuts like Spanish Marcona almonds, macadamias, and coconuts pair well with a muscular single malt like Bruichladdich X$ Quadrupled, while bitter nuts like kola or bitter almonds pair well with sweeter Scotches like Glenmorangie Nectar D’Or.

Fish and Seafood

Fish found in rivers, such as bass, rainbow trout, perch, and some salmon, pair well with smooth and fruity malts, such as Glenlivet and Glenfiddich. Saltier fish like mackerel, salmon, and sardines require a stronger Scotch, such as Talisker or Laphroaig. Oysters are also considered one of the best pairings with Scotch, especially when paired with a smoky, salty, and tangy Scotch like Ardbeg Dave Cove from Islay, Scotland, New Riff Backsetter, or Balcones Brimstone. Other seafood that goes well with peaty and smoky Scotch includes scallops and crab. Sushi is also considered a good pairing with Scotch, especially unpeated Scotch.

Meat

When pairing grilled or smoked meat with Scotch, keep the seasoning subdued. Garlic flavours and the saltiness of olives go well with a light and fruity single malt lowland whisky like Glenkinchie. Steak with smoky whisky is another good pairing.

Fruit

More tart fruits, such as apples, pears, cranberries, and lemon, work well with any Scotch, especially single malts like Clynelish that already have hints of fruit. Apple pie is another dessert that is considered a great pairing with Scotch.

Frequently asked questions