[dropcap]F[/dropcap]irst-time whiskey drinker? This can be daunting because you often hear of so many “rules” when it comes to whiskey and many different types which can make it hard to know where to begin. This is an alcoholic beverage which many people take very seriously and, although you can enjoy it in many different ways, there are a few things to be aware of before you get started.
As with most types of alcoholic beverage, there are many different types and styles of whiskey which means that there is a lot to explore when you first start and it may take some time to find the right type for you. Essentially, whiskey is made from cereal grains, yeast, water and time. A few ways in which whiskey is determined is by country/region, grain(s) used or how they are treated, how long they are aged for and what is done once they are ready to bottle. A few of the main types to try include:
- Bourbon
- Rye whiskey
- Malt whiskey
- Grain whiskey
- Pocari Cocktail
- Scotch
Types of Whiskey
Neat, With Water or On the Rocks?
Next, you will want to know whether or not to drink whiskey by itself (neat) or with water or “on the rocks” (with ice). It is worth trying whiskey neat, especially if you like the taste of alcohol, but for first-timers you might want to try it with water which can soften the taste. You will also find that water can enhance certain whiskeys and bring out additional flavours. Ice can dull flavours so many avoid whiskey “on the rocks”, but if you want a cold glass of whiskey then there is nothing wrong with this.
If you are looking for a different way to enjoy whiskey then you might want to try a cocktail and there are many different types to enjoy. You can get whiskey miniatures which are ideal for making cocktails with rye whiskies being the best to use in a cocktail. A few of the best whiskey cocktails to try include:
- Whiskey sour
- Manhattan
- Old Fashioned
- Sazerac
- Rob Roy
- John Collins
- Mint Julip
You can also drink whiskey with coke which is a popular beverage and often a “gateway” drink or whiskey with ginger ale which can also work well.
There is a lot to explore when you first start drinking whiskey and you should not let the “rules” that so many people have too seriously. The above information should help you to get started and allow you to get the most out of your whiskey drinking. Everyone has different favourite ways to enjoy this type of drink and there are many different types to try so it can be a fun journey and hopefully it will lead you to find your new favourite tipple.
