How to ask for a whisky when you’re not sure what you’re asking for.
Start by taking the initiative. Is there a particular whisky that you’re after, or a certain style? If so, ask for it. Islay Scotch, an American rye, a Japanese whisky – any bartender worth their weight in tattoos should either know what you’re after or be able to suggest something similar.
And if you’re not quite sure about the whisky you want? Consider the flavours you’re feeling like. Are you after something light, something a little spicy? Or perhaps something smoky? Remember, there’s no wrong answer and it doesn't matter if you’re not sure, but it helps to have some idea of what your whisky is.
There are a few options here, the first and most simple being neat. This just means a shot of whisky, taken in a glass without a mixer or dilution, which should be sipped slowly. Whisky neat is the purist’s way of drinking because it allows the whisky’s aroma and flavours to shine.
Another option is on the rocks, which will see your whisky being served with a few ice cubes, or rocks. There are positives and negatives to this. On the one hand, chilling a drink dilutes the aromas of alcohol, making the whisky more approachable. The flavour will also change as time passes and the water blends with the whisky, which is always interesting. On the other hand, flavours other than alcohol may also be diluted, potentially making the whisky less enjoyable.
If you’d like a little something on the side, then your whisky order is going to include a back. For a whisky with water, order a water back. If you're after dry ginger ale, then order a dry back. Your whisky will be served neat with a glass of whatever you’ve asked for on the side, so you can top up the whisky as you go or use it as a chaser.
This is it. The moment of truth. You step up to the bar and look the bartender in the eye. You say, “Laphroaig 10-year-old, neat,” or “High West Rendezvous Rye, with a water back,” or “Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon, on the rocks.” Oh, and you say please, of course.
And if you don’t know what to order? Then smile and tell the bartender that you’d like a whisky, and ask if they could recommend one. Think back to Step 1 and tell them what you’re in the mood for. Smoky, spicy, fruity or delicate – which will it be today?
