The secret to making rock whisky even more delicious: how ice, chaser, and water affect the taste.

Water Makes a Difference in Whisky on the Rocks

Whisky on the rocks is a popular way to enjoy the original taste of whisky.

However, many people overlook the role of "water."

In whisky on the rocks,

• The water used to make ice
• The water drunk as a chaser
• The water used for dilution

all affect the taste.

Whisky lovers are particular about their bottles, but surprisingly few pay attention to the water.

Why Is the Ice Used for Whisky on the Rocks So Large?

Whisky on the rocks served at bars often uses large, clear ice.

The reason is

to slow down the melting speed of the ice.

Smaller ice melts faster due to its larger surface area.

On the other hand, larger ice melts slowly, preventing the whisky from being diluted too quickly.

The taste of whisky on the rocks changes over time.

Ice plays an important role in enjoying this change slowly.

Ice Eventually Becomes Drink

Ice is not just a cooling agent.

Over time, it becomes

Whisky
+
Melted Ice

In other words, the quality of the water used to make the ice is also part of the flavor.

Ice made from water with an unpleasant taste can affect the flavor when it melts.

For this reason, some whisky enthusiasts are particular even about the water they use to make ice.

Why Whisky Lovers Drink Chasers

A chaser is water drunk alongside whisky.

Chasers serve several purposes:

• To cleanse the palate
• To enhance the aroma
• To prevent over-drinking
• To hydrate

Especially with whisky on the rocks, having a chaser can make the next sip taste even clearer.

What is Water Dilution in Whisky?

In the world of whisky, there's a way to enjoy it called

"dilution with water."

This involves adding a small amount of water to whisky.

Adding water is said to:

• Open up the aroma
• Make it easier to perceive sweetness
• Mellow the alcohol's kick

Many single malt enthusiasts add just a few drops of water to enjoy the changes in aroma.

Why Distilleries Are Particular About Water

World-renowned whisky distilleries place great importance on their water sources.

Many distilleries in Scotland, Japan, the United States, and other regions are built near sources of high-quality water.

This is because

water significantly impacts the quality of whisky.

It is said that Japan's excellent water environment is one of the reasons why Japanese whisky is highly regarded worldwide.

Soft Water and Whisky Compatibility

Generally, in Japanese whisky culture, soft water is considered to pair well with whisky.

Soft water has low mineral content and features:

• It doesn't interfere with the aroma.
• It has a smooth mouthfeel.
• It has less off-flavors.

For these reasons, it tends to be preferred by those who want to enjoy the whisky's original character.

Ice and Chaser Made with Onsensui 99

Onsensui 99 is natural alkaline hot spring water sourced from Tarumizu City, Kagoshima Prefecture.

It is ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L, characterized by a very smooth mouthfeel.

When enjoying whisky on the rocks, you can also enjoy it by:

• Making ice with Onsensui 99
• Drinking it as a chaser
• Using it for dilution

By using the same water for everything, you might enjoy a more unified flavor.

At-Home Tasting Comparison

Please try a side-by-side comparison of whisky on the rocks:

A

Regular ice + regular water

B

Ice made with Onsensui 99 + Onsensui 99

While perceptions vary individually,

• Aroma
• Mouthfeel
• Finish

you might enjoy the differences.

Summary

Whisky on the rocks is not a drink completed by whisky alone.

• Ice
• Chaser
• Dilution

The water used for these is also an important element.

Therefore,

if you are particular about whisky, you can also be particular about water.

This is another way to enjoy it.

Onsensui 99, with its ultra-soft water at 1.7 mg/L hardness, is recommended as one option for enjoying whisky on the rocks.

FAQ

Why is the ice in whisky on the rocks so large?

To prevent the whisky from diluting too quickly by melting slowly.

Is a chaser necessary?

It's recommended as it helps you appreciate the aroma and also aids in hydration.

What is water dilution in whisky?

It's a method of adding a small amount of water to enjoy changes in aroma and taste.

Can Onsensui 99 be used with whisky?

It can be used in various ways, such as for ice, as a chaser, or for dilution.