When it comes to whisky, as you’ll probably know, I’m a firm believer in enjoying a wee dram however you like. Within reason, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy whisky. As long as you enjoy it, that’s all that counts. 

With that said, if you’re new to the exciting and wonderful world of whisky, it can sometimes help to know the lingo when ordering a whisky, especially if you’re at a bar in the heart of whisky country. Understanding the different terms and phrases associated with whisky not only helps you understand more about this beloved drink, it also helps make sure that you order correctly and get the drink you want. 

For today’s post, I want to take a slightly lighter hearted look at whisky, and help you understand the lingo when ordering a whisky at a bar, restaurant, pub, club, or anywhere else. 

Ordering a Whisky Neat

You’ve probably seen people on TV or in films and movies ordering a whisky ‘neat’ whenever they go into a bar. But what exactly does this mean? 

Well, very simply, if you order a whisky neat, you are ordering a whisky in its purest, unadulterated form. With nothing added, and nothing taken away. Just a fine dram of whisky, and nothing else. 

Many Scotch whiskies are enjoyed neat as it allows you to fully appreciate the complexities of the whisky. You get to smell every scent and aroma and enjoy the different tastes, the finish, and the mouthfeel that the whisky provides. 

If you want to enjoy a fine single malt in its purest form, neat is the way to go. 

Ordering a Whisky Cocktail

Some people believe that whisky has no place in a cocktail and should primarily be enjoyed neat. Others thing that whisky can work great in a cocktail. You know who’s right? Both sets of people, that’s who. At risk of sounding like a stuck CD (yes, CDs are still a thing) people should enjoy whisky however they like. 

If you’re looking to enjoy a fine whisky/whiskey but don’t want to enjoy it neat, go ahead and order a whisky cocktail instead. Three popular whisky-based cocktails include the Rob Roy, which is made with Scotch, along with vermouth and a touch of bitters, the Whisky Sour, and of course, the Old Fashioned. 

Take a look at the cocktail menu, and don’t be afraid to try a different cocktail if it happens to include whisky. 

Straight Up

If you order your whisky ‘straight up’ you’re basically asking for it to be served chilled, without ice. Usually this is achieved by shaking or stirring the whisky with ice and then straining the liquid into a glass. 

While it’s rare to enjoy a Scotch chilled, many bourbon whiskies are often served chilled and actually work best when chilled, as it brings out the different notes and characteristics of the whiskey. 

Again, if you like your whisky chilled, but don’t want to deal with the melted ice, straight up is a great way to go. Just be aware that the whisky will still be a slightly diluted down. 

On the Rocks

If you really want to sound fancy, perhaps in order to impress your date, or show off in front of your mates, you can order your whisky ‘on the rocks’. 

Whisky served in this way is usually served over ice cubes, which refer to the ‘rocks’. Chilling the whisky will again alter its profile and may help you to enjoy different layers and elements of the whisky. The downside is that the whisky will be diluted down as the ice melts. 

If you get the choice, one large ice cube as opposed to a handful of smaller cubes will work better as the ice will dilute slower. 

With Water

Not only is it perfectly acceptable to enjoy a Scotch with water, it is often encouraged. Some Scotch whisky can be a little too harsh, especially a cask strength, and if there is too much burn, a couple of drops of water will work wonders. 

Ordering a whisky with water means that your whisky will be diluted down ever-so-slightly with mineral water. This helps to mellow out the harsh and fiery alcohol notes so you can enjoy the different tastes and notes that the whisky provides. 

With a Twist

Finally, if you like your whisky to have a slightly fruity finish to it, go ahead and order it ‘with a twist’. 

Ordering with a twist means that the whisky is served with a twist of citrus peel, usually lemon or orange, though sometimes lime as well. 

A lot of the time, whiskies, especially single malts, can provide citrus notes so enjoying them with a twist is a great way of highlighting these flavours and really bringing them to the forefront of each sip.

If you’d like to learn more about your favourite whiskies, or simply treat yourself to a dram or two at the same time, head on over to GreatDrams.com and take a look at what we have to offer. 

With an impressive selection of limited-edition, rare, and award-winning whisky, as well as heaps of whisky info on our blog, it’s the perfect spot for any whisky lovers out there.