Where would we be without science? Probably still thinking the earth is flat, severely lacking in medical advancements, and drinking whiskey the completely wrong way. But rest assured, whiskey drinkers, science is here to quell all your imbibing insecurities.
A new scientific study explains the hows and whys of the so-called best way to consume the aromatic amber liquid. Results show that a glass of whiskey diluted with water actually produces the optimal drinking experience.
There’s a bunch of science behind the study that you can read more about here, but for the science-averse among us, there exists a simpler explanation. Whiskey’s taste can be attributed to the presence of a molecule called guaiacol, and like any good ambivalent, guaiacol both likes and dislikes water. Adding water to that rocks glass actually pushes the guaiacol to the top of your drink, strengthening the whiskey's aroma and flavor.
But there’s a definite sweet spot. The study shows that adding just a few drops of water to your glass will deliver the best taste. Pour too much, and the guaiacol gets dispersed throughout the glass and dilutes the flavor. However, feel free to experiment with the proportions that work best for you.
So drink on, whiskey lovers. But remember, you don't always have serve your whiskey neat. A little water never hurts.
How do you like your whiskey? Let us know your preferred proportions in the comments below.
Written by: Valerio Farris
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46 Comments
You purchase the spirit of your choice, drink it how YOU enjoy it, never let someone else tell you otherwise. It all comes down to personal preference. I have been recommended many different types/styles of whiskey with all types of explanations as to why they're amazing etc... yet rarely have I agreed with the person making the recommendation.
the pipette creates a stir in bars at home.
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