Whisky For People Who Think They Don't Like Whisky

Almost everyone who says they don't like whisky is describing one evening.

Usually a small measure, poured neat, handed over by someone enthusiastic, at an age when they weren't ready for it. That drink was strong, warm and likely intense, and it arrived with an expectation attached: you are supposed to enjoy this. And seem dignified about it.

It's a rough introduction. Nobody starts on an espresso!

What actually went wrong

Neat whisky is a concentrated thing. It's meant to be approached slowly, and often with a little water, which is why distillery tastings hand you a jug. Served cold, long and lightly sparkling, exactly the same liquid behaves completely differently.

The heat drops away. The fruit and honey come forward. It becomes refreshing, which is a word few people associate with whisky and probably should.

Where to begin again

Start with something gentle rather than something impressive. A softer blend or a lighter malt. Build it long: tall glass, lots of ice, one part whisky, three parts soda.

If you like bright and zesty drinks, begin with Grapefruit & Gorse. If crisp and fresh is more your thing, try Apple & Heather. If you lean to warmth and a bit of spice, Ginger & Honey. Or if you'd rather meet the whisky properly, Pure & Natural is for you.

And if you still don't like it

That's completely allowed. Taste is personal and nobody owes whisky anything.

But it's worth knowing that "I don't like whisky" is usually shorthand for "I don't like whisky neat, at room temperature, from a bottle somebody else chose."

Discover and share your perfect whisky and Spey Soda pairings @speysoda.

Explore whisky your way. Life's short. Mix well.