Why Smoke Whiskey?
Smoking whiskey has become an increasingly popular way to enjoy the full sensory experience of the drink. Anyone who has smoked whiskey knows that it’s an unforgettable experience; a timeless tradition of savouring the best flavours of whiskey, and an unmistakeable aroma that will stick to the nostrils long after the glass is empty.
But why have whiskey-smokers decided to make the shift from traditional alcohol consumption to smoking whiskey? Here are some of the reasons why this wonderful pastime has become more mainstream.
The Unforgettable Aroma
For whiskey-smokers, the scent of the smoky aroma of whiskey is a huge part of the experience — and something that traditional drinking just can’t replicate. The woody undertones of the smokiness give the drinker a unique sensory experience that sets it apart from the typical glass of whiskey.
The smell of whiskey when it’s being smoked also carries with it a certain air of nostalgia; the memories of campfires, woodwood fires and the wilds come to mind. This evocative aspect of the smell itself also makes it an attractive pastime.
A Relaxed Vibe
Smoking whiskey is not just about the drink itself, but rather the environment and the atmosphere it produces. Smoking whiskey conjures up a laid-back, relaxed and mellow feel that makes it even more pleasurable. It is the perfect setting for a gathering of friends, offering a chance for people to slow down and enjoy the subtle nuances of the smoke and the whisky.
For those looking for a leisurely activity to get involved in with friends and family, whiskey smoking is a great option. You don’t need any additional equipment, and the activity can be enjoyed in a relatively small amount of space.
A Better Taste
The taste of whiskey when it is smoked carries a unique smoky flavour that simply can’t be replicated by drinking it traditionally. The flavours of the whisky itself become more pronounced when the alcohol is smoked, as the smokiness slightly masks out the harsher alcohol elements. The whiskey is also significantly smoother and more mellow in texture compared to when it is drunk traditionally.
The smokiness of the whiskey also enhances certain other flavours, making the whiskey sweeter and more flavourful.
A Bigger Booze Buzz
Smoking whiskey is not just about the savoring the flavour — it is also about the strength of the spirit. The traditional way to enjoy whiskey is to sip or sip-drink, savoring each sip for its taste and flavor. However, those who smoke whiskey enjoy a higher intensity of alcohol, as the smoke helps to enhance the spirit’s effects faster.
The smoke helps to open the airways and let the alcohol enter the system quicker, providing the drinker with a far quicker and intense drinking experience.
The Smoky Ritual
Whiskey smoking has become popular not just for the unique and unforgettable flavour and aroma it provides, but also for the ritualistic aspect of the activity. Trainers and lovers of whiskey understand the ritual of laying out the tobacco, preparing the ashes, and slowly pouring in the whisky, producing a strong yet mellow smell.
The ritual of whiskey smoking is also enhanced when it’s done with friends, making it a bonding experience. Smokers often take a lot of pride in their ritual, and the unique souvenirs and items that are used to complete their ritual like whiskey-pipes, special whiskey glasses, and ashes provide a personalised touch.
The Art of Blending
Whiskey smoking doesn’t just come down to taste — there is also an art to it. Experienced whiskey-smokers understand the different aromas, tastes, and flavours that different whiskeys can produce, as well as the skill of matching them with tobacco. Certain tobacco-whiskey pairings can produce smoke that is incredibly aromatic and flavourful.
Whiskey-smokers also enjoy the creativity of blending different whiskeys and tobacco together, understanding what each component of the smoke causes and how each flavour can interact with the other. This creativity also makes it more enjoyable, as smokers learn how to create unique and personalised flavour combinations.
