What kind of ice and water make highballs delicious? Choosing water for whiskey lovers
It's Not Just the Whiskey That Makes a Good Highball
When making a highball at home, many people are particular about the brand of whiskey they use.
However, if you look inside the glass, it's composed of:
- Whiskey
- Ice
- Carbonated water
In other words, "water" actually accounts for a large proportion.
Even if the whiskey itself is good, the taste will change depending on the quality of the ice and water.
That's why bars and hotels are particular about their ice and water.
Why Bars Are Particular About Ice
Many of you who have been to an authentic bar have likely seen large, clear ice cubes.
The reason bars are particular about ice isn't just for appearance.
Good quality ice has the following characteristics:
- Melts slowly
- Drinks don't get diluted easily
- Flavor changes are gentle
A highball is a drink that you enjoy as the ice melts.
Therefore, the quality of the ice directly affects the taste.
Ice Eventually Becomes Part of the Drink
Ice is not just a cooling agent.
It melts over time and becomes part of the highball.
In other words, you are drinking:
Whiskey
+
Carbonated water
+
Melted ice
If the water used to make the ice has an undesirable taste, that influence could remain until the last sip.
The Difference Between Clear Ice and Cloudy Ice
Ice made in a home freezer can sometimes be cloudy.
On the other hand, ice at a bar is transparent.
This is related to the air and impurities in the water, as well as the freezing speed.
While transparent ice isn't necessarily always tastier, it has advantages such as:
- Beautiful appearance
- Melts slowly
- Less impact on taste
It might be interesting to pay attention to the ice when enjoying a highball.
Whiskey Mizuwari Changes with the Diluting Water
The same goes for whiskey with water (mizuwari).
Depending on the diluting water, you may experience changes in:
- Aroma diffusion
- Perception of sweetness
- Drinkability
The reason Japanese whiskey distilleries prioritize their water source is because water greatly influences the taste.
At home, you might discover new flavors by changing the diluting water.
Why Soft Water is Recommended for Whiskey Mizuwari and Highballs
In Japan, soft water culture is generally well-established.
Soft water has fewer minerals and is characterized by:
- A smooth mouthfeel
- Less雜味 (unpleasant taste/roughness)
- Less likely to interfere with aroma
Therefore, soft water is sometimes preferred by those who want to enjoy the original character of whiskey.
The Compatibility of Ultra-Soft Water and Whiskey
Onsensui 99 is ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L.
It is known as one of Japan's top-class soft natural alkaline hot spring waters.
Ultra-soft water is said to easily provide:
- A smooth drinking sensation
- A gentle mouthfeel
- A light aftertaste
Therefore, some people use it as diluting water for mizuwari or highballs.
The Option of Making Ice with Onsensui 99
For those who want to enjoy highballs even more, there's also the option of:
- Making ice with Onsensui 99
- Using Onsensui 99 as diluting water
Since the water is the same even if the ice melts, you can enjoy a unified taste.
As mentioned in the coffee article, ice ultimately becomes part of the drink.
Therefore, there's also the idea of being particular about the water used for ice.
A Comparison Tasting Highball Lovers Should Try
Please try making and comparing highballs using:
- Regular ice and water
- Ice and diluting water made with Onsensui 99
While individual perceptions may vary, it might be an opportunity to appreciate the difference in water.
Summary
Highballs and whiskey with water aren't solely determined by the whiskey.
In fact, important factors include:
- The water used to make the ice
- The diluting water
- Compatibility with carbonated water
If you're particular about whiskey, be particular about the water too.
This kind of enjoyment is one of the appeals of highballs.
Ultra-soft water like Onsensui 99, with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L, is an option that can be used for both ice and diluting water.
Why not try enjoying the difference in water with your next drink?
FAQ
Does ice change the taste of a highball?
Ice melts over time and becomes part of the drink, which can affect the taste.
Is soft water recommended for whiskey with water?
Generally, soft water is often preferred when you want to enjoy the original aroma and taste of whiskey.
Can I make ice with Onsensui 99?
Of course. You can make it with a home ice maker or ice tray.
Can it be used as diluting water for highballs?
Yes. Onsensui 99 has a hardness of 1.7 mg/L, so some people use it as diluting water.
