Whisky connoisseur, Gemma Paterson, global brand ambassador of The Balvenie, a hand-crafted single malt whisky gives Business Traveller India insider tips on how to savour a high-quality single malt Scotch whisky.

Know your glass 

Depending on the size and shape of the glass, the smell, particularly the aroma of your whisky changes. Glassware is a very important element in relishing your malt. Ask the bartender to serve you in a clean and detergent free glass, else it will affect the flavour of your whisky. Some of the best whisky glass manufacturers are Glencairn and Denver, and Liely. There are also specially designed glasses for single malts, which you should try and get your hands on.

Pro Tip: Smell your glass before the bartender pours the whisky in to make sure there is no detergent in there.

Blend with water 

Not every whisky is going to work well with water. But adding the right proportion of water can enhance the flavour of the whisky. You can blend 20 to 30 per cent of water with the alcohol because when the water content is over 40 per cent, the aromas get diluted. You can try a small sip first and then add in some water to see how the tastes and aromas change.

Pro Tip: Blend your whisky with low mineral content water.

Soda is good

India is the largest consumer of whisky in the world and one of the most popular mixers for alcohol drinkers in the country is soda. Adding soda in your drink can give rise to bubbles, enhances the taste within the whisky.

Pro tip: This is perfect for a hot day.

Share your whisky 

Whisky is made to be opened, to be drunk, to be shared and enjoyed while lounging with friends. There can be nothing more wonderful than having some of your closest friends and family to create memories with. It can be a much-needed break from a stressful routine.

Pro tip: An ideal time to share a good bottle of whisky is during festivities, when close ones come together.

Keep your whisky safe 

Storage of whisky is essential because once it is in the glass, it is frozen in time. It is not like wine that will change or evolve. Store your special whisky in a cool dark place with an additional seal over it, if possible.

Pro tip: Don’t store it on the side where the whisky is in touch with the cork.