🥃 Should You Add Water to Whisky?
Yes — and how you do it matters more than you might think.
Adding a few drops of water to whisky is a long-trusted way to open up the spirit, softening the alcohol and releasing hidden layers of aroma and flavour. It’s especially beneficial with whiskies bottled at 46% ABV or higher, or cask strength drams.
But here’s a top tip that even some seasoned whisky drinkers miss:
🔥 For a smoother dram, add the water to your glass first, then pour the whisky second.
Why? Because when water is added to whisky after it’s poured, the sudden reaction between the alcohol and water can create a harsher mouthfeel and dull the nose with an ethanol burst. In contrast, pouring whisky into water allows the flavours to marry more gently, producing a rounder, softer dram from the first sip.
It’s a small change, but it can make a big difference — especially if you’re exploring bolder expressions like Big Peat or high-ABV Highland malts such as Timorous Beastie.
Complete the Experience – The Perfect Whisky Glass
To fully appreciate the flavour nuances and layered aromas of each regional malt, we recommend enjoying your dram from our Douglas Laing & Co. Whisky Glass.
Inspired by the traditional copa-style nosing glass used by distillers across Scotland, this curved tumbler mirrors the classic silhouette seen in professional tasting rooms – with a rounded bowl and tapered top to amplify aroma and enhance every sip.
🥃 Why it’s special:
- Copa-inspired design – based on traditional distillery tasting glasses
- Wide, rounded bowl – ideal for swirling whisky and releasing complex aromas
- Tapered rim – concentrates and lifts the nose of the whisky
- Room for water or ice – comfortably accommodates your preferred serve
- Dishwasher safe – for practical everyday use
- Gift-boxed – finished with our Douglas Laing heritage seal and exclusive to our online store
Whether you’re enjoying a rich Highland dram or a smoky Islay expression, this nosing glass is your go-to companion for sipping with style and substance.
Add it to your tasting kit → Pair it with our Remarkable Regional Malts Miniature Gift Pack for the ultimate tour of Scotland’s whisky regions – just add water first, and let the flavours come alive.