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

Whisky on the rocks changes with the "water."

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

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

For whisky on the rocks,

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

all affect the taste.

Whisky lovers are particular about the bottle, but surprisingly, not many are conscious of the water they use.

Why is the ice in whisky on the rocks large?

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

The reason for this is to

slow down the melting speed of the ice.

Small ice cubes melt quickly because they have a large surface area.

On the other hand, large ice cubes melt slowly, preventing the whisky from being diluted too quickly.

Whisky on the rocks changes its taste over time.

Ice is an important factor in enjoying that change slowly.

Ice eventually becomes part of the 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 taste.

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

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

Why whisky enthusiasts drink chasers.

A chaser is water consumed with whisky.

Chasers serve several purposes:

• To cleanse the palate
• To make it easier to perceive aromas
• To prevent overdrinking
• To hydrate

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

What is adding water to whisky?

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

"adding water."

This is a method of adding a small amount of water to whisky.

Adding water is said to:

• Open up the aroma
• Make the sweetness more noticeable
• Soften the alcohol's bite

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

Why distilleries are particular about water.

Famous whisky distilleries around the world 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 Japanese whisky is highly regarded worldwide.

Compatibility of soft water and whisky.

Generally, in Japanese whisky culture, soft water is considered to be a good match.

Soft water has low mineral content and is characterized by:

• Not interfering with the aroma
• A smooth mouthfeel
• Less discernible off-flavors

Therefore, it tends to be preferred by those who want to enjoy the original character of whisky.

Ice and chasers made with Onsensui 99.

Onsensui 99 is a natural alkaline ionized 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, there are also ways to enjoy it by:

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

By using the same water, you might be able to enjoy a unified taste.

Taste test you can do at home.

Please try a taste comparison of whisky on the rocks, using:

A

Regular ice + regular water

B

Ice made with Onsensui 99 + Onsensui 99

While individual perceptions vary,

• 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.

That is why,

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

This is another way to enjoy it.

Onsensui 99's ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L is recommended as one option for enjoying whisky on the rocks.

FAQ

Why is the ice in whisky on the rocks large?

To prevent the whisky from being diluted too quickly by melting slowly.

Is a chaser necessary?

It is recommended as it helps to perceive the aroma and also aids in hydration.

What is adding water to whisky?

It is 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 for various purposes, such as ice, chasers, and dilution.