Drinking whisky the way you like it

There’s an old Gaelic proverb that reckons there are two things a Scotsman likes naked. One is his whisky. By Graham Howe.When it comes down to taste, Scotch whisky can be as intriguing and seductive as the Mona Lisa. Like most things in life, however, how you take your whisky is strictly a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, with ice, with a dash of pure water, with soda, or with your favourite mixer the modern way – it’s your call.

It takes all sorts of palates to make the world of whisky go round. Mixing a fine blended Scotch like J&B Rare or Bell’s Extra Special with another beverage might make the purists twitch. Who cares?! The new generation of whisky drinkers enjoys breaking the rules – they’re discovering the contemporary pleasure of enjoying whisky in a hundred and one different ways.

Some like the strong peaty taste of certain single malts. Others prefer a lighter taste – such as that offered by J&B Rare, enjoyed in over 160 countries where whisky drinkers of all ages are enticed by its smooth, well-rounded, flavourful character.

Vibrant and sophisticated, Scotch whisky has come a long way from its humble beginnings in the highlands and heaths of Scotland. Today it is enjoyed in the most exclusive hotels, restaurants and cocktail bars across the globe, setting standards of excellence that reflect a refined lifestyle of leisure – each sip telling a story of its origins, each dram retaining the noble flavour of Scotland.

According to the Scots, it is the land itself that shapes the flavour and style of every bottle of whisky from their 94 working distilleries. The product is as rich in heritage and history as every castle, clan and loch you’ll find scattered throughout Scotland, each whisky reflecting the characteristics of its region, much like the great wines of France – you can taste the terroir!

Some insist on naked Scotch, nothing added. Others would rather have their Bell’s or J&B on the rocks. But the versatility of Scotch whisky is something to savour, too – whisky and soda in a highball glass being the traditional combination. For the adventurous, there’s no end to the list of combinations…

Next time you’re feeling as courageous as Braveheart, try a Rob Roy or a Flying Scotsman – popular whisky cocktails made with Scotch, ginger ale, vermouth and bitters. Or take a walk on the wild side and ask the bar-tender to mix a Clansman, a Highland Fling or the Bannockburn. After all, it’s your choice.

But whatever you fancy, savour the sense of place, sip slowly, let your imagination soar to an elementary landscape of barley fields, rolling hills of flowering heather, smoky peat fires, misty moors, mystical lochs and salty islands strewn with seaweed – the rich aromas of Scotch whisky captured in every bottle.