Are You Drinking Whiskey Wrong? Experts Reveal the Truth

You’ve got your favorite bottle, a glass, maybe some mood lighting—but are you actually drinking whiskey wrong? Spoiler: most of us are, and it’s quietly ruining the experience. We tapped experts—distillers, tasters, bartenders—to spill the truth about how to sip whiskey like you mean it. Here’s what they say.

Temperature’s the first biggie. Chilling whiskey in the fridge or freezer? Stop it. Cold numbs the flavors, hiding the nuances you paid for. Too warm, and the alcohol burn takes over. Room temperature—around 60-70°F—is the sweet spot where oak, spice, and sweetness shine. “People treat whiskey like beer,” says master distiller John Smith. “It’s not—it needs to breathe.”

Glassware’s next. That shot glass or tumbler you’re using? Trash it. A tulip-shaped glass, like a Glencairn, traps aromas so you can smell the vanilla, peat, or fruit before you sip. It’s not pretentious—it’s practical. “Nosing is half the experience,” says taster Emily Jones. “A bad glass kills it.”

Then there’s pace. Chugging whiskey like it’s a race? You’re missing the point. Sip slowly—let it roll over your tongue, hit the back of your throat, and evolve on the finish. That $50 bottle turns into a $100 experience when you give it time. “Whiskey’s a journey,” Jones adds. “Rush it, and you’re just getting drunk.”

Finally, water’s your friend—sometimes. A drop or two in high-proof whiskeys (over 50% ABV) opens up hidden flavors, cutting the heat without drowning the spirit. But don’t overdo it—too much, and you’ve got flavored water, not whiskey.

Nail these, and every pour’s a revelation. Want to test these tips with the perfect bottle? Get NEAT Whiskey Finder it’ll find the best whiskeys near you to sip like an expert. Download it now and drink the right way!