Whisky is a beloved spirit enjoyed around the world for its complex flavours and aromas. While some whisky connoisseurs may argue that adding water to their favourite dram is sacrilege, others believe that a few drops of water can help bring out the full spectrum of flavours and aromas hidden within the liquid gold. If you fall into the latter category you’re in the right place, we’re big advocates of it here at Ooshky and so here are five of the best whiskies to add water to.

1. Lagavulin 16 Year Old

Lagavulin 16 Year Old is a highly peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky with a bold and complex flavour profile. Adding a few drops of water can help open up the peat smoke and reveal underlying notes of caramel, vanilla, and sherry. The addition of water also softens the burn of the alcohol and makes for a smoother, more enjoyable sip.

3. Highland Park 18 Year Old

Highland Park 18 Year Old is a well-balanced single malt Scotch whisky from the Orkney Islands. This whisky has a subtle smokiness with notes of heather honey, toffee, and dried fruit. Adding water can help bring out the sweetness and soften the whisky’s mouthfeel, allowing you to fully appreciate the flavours and aromas.

3. Yamazaki 12 Year Old

Yamazaki 12 Year Old is a Japanese single-malt whisky that is known for its complexity and balance. Adding a few drops of water to this whisky will reveal its aromas of citrus, honey, and oak, and its flavours of citrus, malt, and spice, making it an even more enjoyable whisky.

4. Bushmills Black Bush

Bushmills Black Bush is an Irish whiskey that’s been aged in Oloroso sherry casks, giving it a rich, fruity flavour with notes of vanilla, raisins, and honey. Adding a few drops of water to this whiskey can help release the full bouquet of flavours and aromas, while also reducing the whiskey’s burn and making it easier to drink.

5. The Macallan Double Cask 12 Year Old

The Macallan 12 Year Old is a well-balanced single malt Scotch whisky that’s been aged in both American and European oak casks. This whisky has notes of vanilla, toffee, and dried fruit, with a hint of spice on the finish. Adding water can help bring out the subtle flavours and aromas, making this whisky a pleasure to drink.

In conclusion, adding water to whisky can be a controversial topic, but it can also be a great way to fully appreciate the flavours and aromas of your favourite dram. If you’re looking to experiment with adding water to your whisky, these five whiskies are a great place to start. So, grab your favourite glass and an Ooshky whisky water jug, add a few drops of water, and enjoy the full spectrum of flavours and aromas that these whiskies have to offer.

Let us know in the comments what your favourite whiskies are that are better with just a drop of water.