The Biggest Whiskey Myths You Still Believe (And Why They’re Dead Wrong)
Whiskey’s steeped in lore, but some of the “facts” you’ve heard are straight-up nonsense. From how it’s made to how you should drink it, myths have tricked even the savviest sippers into missing out on the good stuff. We’re busting the biggest whiskey myths wide open—get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew.
Myth #1: Older whiskey is always better. Wrong! Age matters, but it’s not the golden rule. A 12-year-old bourbon like Buffalo Trace can outshine a 20-year-old that’s spent too long in the barrel, turning woody and bitter. “Balance trumps age,” says distiller Mark Johnson. “Over-aging can kill a spirit.” So why pay extra for a number when flavor’s what counts?
Myth #2: You should only drink whiskey neat. Nope—adding water or ice isn’t blasphemy. A splash of water in a high-proof dram—like a cask-strength Laphroaig—unlocks floral or fruity notes you’d miss otherwise. Ice mellows the burn, perfect for beginners or hot days. Purists might scoff, but experts say it’s about what you enjoy, not rules.
Myth #3: Cheap whiskey is trash. Not even close. Take Evan Williams Black Label—under $15 and loaded with caramel, oak, and a smooth finish that rivals bottles triple the price. Cheap doesn’t mean bad; it means smart distilling without the marketing fluff. Don’t sleep on budget bottles—they’re hiding in plain sight.
Myth #4: Scotch is better than bourbon. This one’s a taste war, not a fact. Scotch brings peat and smoke, sure, but bourbon’s sweet, bold punch—like Woodford Reserve’s vanilla and spice—holds its own. “It’s apples and oranges,” says taster Sarah Lee. “Both can be world-class.” Stop picking sides and sip what moves you.
Myth #5: Whiskey’s just for old guys. Tell that to the craft distillery boom and the millennials flocking to tasting rooms. Whiskey’s having a moment—new flavors, funky finishes, and a vibe that’s anything but stuffy. From rye to single malt, it’s a drink for everyone, not a relic.
Ditching these myths opens up a whole new whiskey world. You’ll save cash, sip smarter, and maybe even impress your whiskey-snob friends. Want to find the perfect bottle to test your new knowledge? Download NEAT Whiskey Finder it’s your shortcut to myth-busting whiskeys near you. Get it now and sip the truth!
