Article: What kind of ice and water make highballs delicious? Choosing water for whiskey lovers
What kind of ice and water make highballs delicious? Choosing water for whiskey lovers
It's not just the whiskey that makes a highball delicious
When making a highball at home, many people are particular about the brand of whiskey.
However, if you look inside the glass,
- Whiskey
- Ice
- Carbonated water
It is composed of.
In other words, "water" actually makes up 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 people who have been to an authentic bar have probably seen large, clear ice.
Bars are particular about ice not just for its appearance.
Good quality ice has the following characteristics:
- It melts slowly
- Drinks don't get diluted easily
- The taste changes gently
A highball is a drink that is enjoyed 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.
As it melts over time,
it 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 a peculiar taste, its effect may linger until the last sip.
The difference between clear ice and cloudy ice
Ice made in a home freezer can sometimes be cloudy and white.
On the other hand, bar ice is transparent.
This is related to the air and impurities contained in the water, as well as the freezing speed.
While clear ice isn't necessarily tastier,
- It looks beautiful
- It melts slowly
- It has less impact on the taste
These are some of the advantages.
When enjoying a highball, it can be interesting to pay attention to the ice as well.
Whiskey and water taste different depending on the water used for mixing
The same goes for whiskey and water.
Depending on the water used for mixing,
- How the aroma spreads
- How sweetness is perceived
- Ease of drinking
can change.
Japanese whiskey distilleries also place importance on their brewing water because water greatly affects the taste.
At home, you might discover a new taste by changing the water you use for mixing.
Why soft water is recommended for whiskey and highballs
In general, a soft water culture is rooted in Japan.
Soft water has few minerals and is characterized by:
- A gentle mouthfeel
- Less off-flavors
- Less interference with aromas
Therefore, soft water is sometimes preferred by those who want to enjoy the original characteristics 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 natural alkaline ion water with one of the softest qualities in Japan.
Ultra-soft water is said to provide:
- A smooth drinking experience
- A gentle mouthfeel
- A light aftertaste
Therefore, some people use it as mixing water for whiskey and highballs.
The option of making ice with Onsensui 99
For those who want to enjoy highballs even more,
- making ice with Onsensui 99
- using Onsensui 99 as mixing water
are also options.
Since the water is the same even when the ice melts, you can enjoy a unified taste.
Also, as introduced in the coffee article, ice eventually becomes part of the drink.
Therefore, there is also the idea of being particular about the water used for ice.
A tasting comparison that highball lovers should try at least once
Please try making and comparing highballs with:
- Normal ice and water
- Ice made with Onsensui 99 and mixing water
While individual perceptions may vary, it might be an opportunity to appreciate the difference in water.
Summary
Highballs and whiskey and water are not determined by whiskey alone.
In fact,
- the water used to make ice
- the water used for mixing
- the compatibility with carbonated water
are also important factors.
If you are particular about whiskey, be particular about water too.
Such a way of enjoying is also one of the charms of highballs.
Ultra-soft water like Onsensui 99 with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L is an option that can be used for ice and mixing 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, so it can affect the taste.
Is soft water recommended for whiskey and water?
Generally, soft water may be preferred if you want to enjoy the original aroma and taste of whiskey.
Can I make ice with Onsensui 99?
Of course, it's possible. You can make it with a home ice maker or ice tray.
Can it also be used as mixing water for highballs?
Yes. Since Onsensui 99 is ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L, some people use it as mixing water.
