How To Order Whiskey at a Bar Like a Pro

Want to order whiskey like a pro and circumvent the snobbery? No need to feel intimidated, even if you’re just getting started. Simply put, whiskey is a distilled alcohol made from fermented cereal grain mash, typically aged in wooden barrels. It comes in many varieties distinguished by their origin, which could mean the state or region, grain type, and aging processes. This guide will set you on the right path and open up a world of flavors without the fuss. Before you begin your whiskey journey, the most important thing to know is that all whiskey is for everyone.

Whiskey or whisky?

Whisky is the spelling preferred in Scotland, Ireland and Japan. But Australia, India, Taiwan, Canada, and the United States are all whiskey producing countries as well. Each country has its own unique style and grain choice. The most notable whiskey type in the US is bourbon, made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. But there is more to American whiskey than bourbon, although it is our native spirit. In the US, whiskey producers make American whiskey from rye grain and malted barley, often called American single malt whiskey. Although Kentucky produces the most whiskey in the US, bourbon can be made anywhere in the country. The grain and production location of the whiskey can indicate its style and basic flavors.

Does price matter?

No. Like with wine, price is not a sign of quality; most importantly, it is not a sign of whether you will like it. Here is where you want to use your bartender for guidance. Tell them what you have had previously that you enjoyed, and they can guide you to something similar in your price range. Or, if you’re brand new to whiskey, they might ask you questions about your favorite flavors and if you have a sweet tooth, etc., to help you make a choice.

If the bar offers flights, that’s a great way to try something new and get to know the different flavor profiles of the whiskey categories. If you’re in a bar that doesn’t have knowledge staff, grab that mini computer that lives in your pocket, google some options listed on the menu, and add the words ‘tasting notes’ you will most likely be given a list of reviews from knowledgeable whiskey reviewers and after scanning a few of them, see a common theme in how the flavors are described, if they resonate with you, give that whiskey a try. Let flavor guide you.

Name the brand

Acquainting yourself with some of the notable whiskey brands in your area or some notable global brands can be very helpful. If you decide you want to order bourbon while you’re out, get to know some of the local brands in your area and some of the major brands so if they are on the menu, your choice is easy, or you can tell the bartender that you like those brands and they can offer something similar. If you’re in a whiskey bar or a bar/restaurant with a big whiskey list, someone in that establishment is likely a whiskey nerd. Ask the bartender or server who’s the biggest whiskey nerd. You’ll likely find an individual eager to help you make a selection and offer something you may have never heard of or tried before that will be your new favorite whiskey.

Well-respected brands that whiskey experts love

If you’re just starting to try whiskey, you may want to ask for a recommendation. But just to get you off to a good start, here are some bartender approved bottles to consider. Sticking with single malt whisky, Starward Whisky has become one of the world's most beloved Australian single malt whiskies, racking up awards like lightning.

In North American whiskey, there is more to love than just bourbon. If you want to try a whiskey from the newly official American single malt category. Virginia Distillery offers a range of celebrated single malt whiskeys made in the US with a decidedly unique perspective. Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond (BIB) is a quintessential example of a great Kentucky Bourbon that won't break the bank. At a reasonable price point, this 7-year-old bourbon is beloved by new bourbon drinkers and season aficionados. Try it in an Old Fashioned. Rye whiskey is also a popular American whiskey category, and New York's JayWalk distillery does it well. The award-winning JayWalk straight rye is a perfect example of the regional style of New York State's rye whiskey.

And then there is Canadian whisky. Forty Creek is a Canadian brand that offers a great example of the beauty of Canadian whisky flavors at approachable prices with something for everyone. Their double barrel, made from rye, corn, and barley, is a delicious whisky that showcases the ingenuity and art of Canadian whisky.

Speaking of rye, Stauning Rye whisky is a Scandinavian whisky that has begun to be distributed outside of Denmark to places like Europe and North America. It's an excellent example of the region's flavors full of big flavors that are quickly winning over rye whisky fans. This is a brand to watch.

The Busker is fairly new to the Irish whiskey scene, but its makers are no newbies. The Busker is a great example of contemporary Irish whisky that is approachable and great for sipping neat or in cocktails.

Another region you may see on whiskey lists is Indian whisky, which is quickly becoming a globally beloved region. India is not new to whisky making, and Godawan whisky is an excellent example of Indian whisky, which has much to love for aficionados and folks new to whisky.

Is Older Better?

Not necessarily. The right age for whiskey depends on many factors, but most importantly, the whiskey maker, whatever age they deem the whiskey just right, is usually the perfect age. In some regions, whiskey takes longer to age, and the liquid can pick up flavors from the wood it’s being aged in. Cool climates can take longer than hot climates. The grain type can also change how long it takes for a whiskey to mature. For a long time, bourbon lovers believed that longer aging improved bourbon’s taste; then, age statements disappeared from some bottles as distilleries aged bourbon for shorter periods or blended younger and older whiskeys. Sometimes, whiskey aged a long time will be very woody in flavor; some people love it, and others do not. It’s a preference, not a hard and fast rule.

Neat vs rocks?

Women drinking whiskey at a bar photo credit OurWhisky Foundation Jo Hanley

This decision will be based on your preference and may depend on how experienced you are as a whiskey drinker. Ordering whiskey neat means you will get a room-temperature pour of whiskey, anywhere from two to three ounces in a glass. On the rocks means you will get the same pour of whiskey over ice. Chilling the whiskey in the glass makes it more approachable and easier to drink, but it could also make it lose some flavor. You also have the option to add a few drops of room-temperature water to a glass of whiskey to open up some of its flavors. If you’re unsure of your preference, which can change based on the amount of alcohol in the whiskey, we call that alcohol by volume (ABV). The age or style of whiskey can determine whether you will prefer it chilled. Order a whiskey neat with rocks on the side. That way, you can add as much ice as you like while testing it after each cube until you get it to the right place. Or, you may find that whiskey neat is right for you.

To mix or not to mix?

Bartender making whisky highball photo credit OurWhisky Foundation Jo Hanley

Cocktails and mixed drinks are a fantastic way to test new whiskey or ease yourself into the category. Especially if you’re working your way into higher-proof whiskey or smoky whiskey. You can try whiskey on the rocks with a splash of soda or whiskey with ginger ale and find these drinks satisfying and refreshing. Or go for complex flavors with cocktails like the whiskey sour, a boozy Manhattan, or even a Margarita made with whiskey instead of tequila, yep, that’s a thing, and it’s delicious.

Again, let flavor guide you; taste is subjective, and whiskey has no right or wrong. The goal is to enjoy the experience.