Top Tips for Choosing the Perfect Whiskey During Summer

It’s true that whisky is usually associated with cold winter evenings, but it’s also true that you can have a great glass of whisky in the warmer months. When made correctly, whisky can be just as enjoyable and cooling in the heat. If you like to drink whisky neat, on the rocks, or in a cool cocktail, this post will show you how to pick the perfect whisky for those summertime days in the sun. And when you’re ready to dial a bottle of your favourite whisky, be sure to choose one that’s light and refreshing.

Best Tips for Choosing the Perfect Whisky in the Summer

1. Opt for Smoother and Lighter Types

Throughout the summer, you should avoid the hearty, smoky tastes that are better suited for winter. Instead, go for whiskies that are lighter and more smooth. Seek out uplifting flavours like vanilla, honey, or blends or single malts with these nuances.

Whisky Recommendations
• Irish whisky: It is reputed for having a fruity undertone and a mild, silky finish.
• Speyside Scotch: Typically fruity and flowery, although generally lighter.

2. Select Whiskies with a Lower ABV

Even while you may enjoy your rye or high-proof bourbon, the summertime heat may call for something a little less strong. On hot days, lower ABV (alcohol by volume) whiskies are more pleasant to drink and keep you refreshed without having the same strong aftertaste as higher-proof spirits.

Pro Tip: For a smoother, less overwhelming taste, seek out whiskies with an ABV between 40 and 43%.

3. Examine Whisky Mixed Drinks

The summer is the ideal season to sip cocktails made with whisky. A well-crafted cocktail may bring out the flavours of your whisky and give it a cool touch. To remain cool and hydrated, consider drinking whisky sours, mint juleps, or even just a straightforward whisky lemonade.

Ideas for Cocktails:
• Whisky Sour: The perfect summertime beverage, it has just the right amount of whisky, lemon juice, and sweetness. A Southern favourite on hot days, a Mint Julep combines bourbon, crushed ice, and fresh mint leaves.

• Whisky Lemonade: A straightforward yet cooling concoction of whisky, ice, and fresh lemonade.

4. Present it with a dash of water or on the rocks.

The idea of a tidy pour could be a little overwhelming when the temperature rises. Think about serving your whisky with a dash of cold water or over ice. This makes the drink easier to sip and not only cools it down but also has the potential to smooth out the flavours.

Pro Tip: Big ice cubes or whisky stones work best because they melt more gradually and don’t rapidly dilute your beverage.

5. Investigate New Areas

Certain American distilleries and other places, including Japan, are known for producing whiskies with distinctive, lighter flavour characteristics. Particularly Japanese whiskies are popular for having a subtle, delicate flavour that makes them ideal for summertime sipping. If you’re in Calgary and looking to explore these unique flavours, be sure to search by dial a bottle in Calgary for a wide selection of options.

Whisky Recommendations

Japanese whisky: This drink is renowned for having delicate, sophisticated flavours with traces of fruit and flowers.

American Rye: This is a stronger alternative that goes nicely with cocktail mixers.

6. Experiment with flavoured whiskies

If you’re feeling adventurous, summer is the perfect time to experiment with flavoured whiskeys. Many distilleries now offer whiskies infused with flavours like apple, peach, or honey, making them ideal for summer cocktails or enjoying them on their own.
Apple Whisky is crisp and refreshing, making it a great choice for a simple summer cocktail when paired with soda water or ginger ale.

Honey Whisky, on the other hand, offers a smooth and sweet flavour that’s perfect for sipping over ice or mixing into an easy cocktail with lemonade or iced tea.

Flavoured whiskies are a fantastic way to add a touch of fun and variety to your summer drinking experience, and they’re often a hit at barbecues and outdoor parties.

7. Keep It Cool

An important tip for enjoying whisky in the summer is to keep it cool. Warm whisky can quickly lose its appeal, especially when the temperatures soar in the summer. enjoying your whisky outdoors, make sure to store it in a cooler or an insulated bag to maintain the perfect temperature.

Chilled whisky, whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, can be incredibly refreshing when served at the right temperature. Using large ice cubes, whisky stones, or even chilling your whisky in the fridge for a short while can help ensure you have a cool and enjoyable drink on a hot day.

Conclusion
Whisky is far from being limited to winter drinking; with the right approach, it can be a delightful choice for summer as well. If you like lighter, fruit-forward varieties, enjoy mixing up whisky cocktails and adding a few ice cubes to make it more appealing to the taste buds. Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you can’t have whiskey. There’s always a way to enjoy whisky, even during the hottest months.