The relationship between whiskey and chaser
〇The option of a "chaser" to broaden the range of ways to drink
When enjoying whiskey straight, many people use a "chaser." Drinking it after a strong alcoholic drink resets the mouth and makes the next sip feel more vivid. It's not just a simple "wash down with water," but depending on the type and temperature of the chaser, it can change the impression of the whiskey or bring out its hidden characteristics. Here we'll introduce some typical chasers to enjoy with whiskey.
1. water
The most basic and versatile chaser. Its effect changes greatly depending on the type and temperature of the water.
The most commonly used chaser is water. However, even though it is called "water," its compatibility with whiskey and the feeling of the finish change depending on the temperature (room temperature, cold water, hot water), the presence or absence of carbonation, mineral content, hardness, etc. Using water that is particularly warm can sometimes make the aftertaste feel like it is spreading in your mouth again.
2. Carbonated water
〇The refreshing taste and slight stimulation bring out the aroma and flavor of the whiskey.
Carbonated water resets your mouth, while the fine bubbles bring out the lingering flavor of the whiskey. Plain, unsweetened carbonated water is the standard, but the impression can change depending on whether you use hard or soft water, and how cold it is. The stimulation of the carbonation can bring out sweetness and fruity aromas, so it goes well with light sherry cask-aged drinks and fruity single malts.
3. Coffee
A somewhat unexpected and profound combination that resonates with the aroma and bitterness of the whiskey.
In recent years, the use of coffee as a chaser has been gaining attention. In the case of hot coffee, the roasted aroma and bitterness create a synergistic effect with the woody and smoky flavor of the whiskey. It goes particularly well with whiskeys aged in sherry casks, which have hints of dried fruit or chocolate. In the case of cold iced coffee, the acidity and refreshing feeling come to the forefront, creating a completely different impression.
4. Tea
〇 A refreshing aftertaste that cleanses the palate. Especially recommended for whiskeys with strong barrel aromas.
Unsweetened teas such as green tea and oolong tea are also popular as chasers. They leave the mouth feeling refreshed, so they are said to go well with peaty whiskeys and whiskeys with a rich sweetness derived from sherry casks. If you choose a tea with a strong aroma such as herbal tea or roasted green tea, it will give you a calming aftertaste after the whiskey.
5. Beer
This combination is known as the "beer chaser." It is a classic way to enjoy beer and has a certain level of support.
A style that has become popular mainly in America and Europe is to drink a shot of whiskey followed immediately by a beer. The strong alcoholic taste of the whiskey is neutralized, while the carbonation and bitterness of the beer cleanses the aftertaste. When combined with an IPA or dark beer with a strong hop aroma and malt flavor, it creates a balance that stands up to the whiskey's unique characteristics.
6. Milk
Although it's a surprising combination, some say it works surprisingly well with this unique chaser.
Although it is not common, milk with a creamy texture can soften the stimulation of whiskey and extend the aftertaste of the aroma mildly. Of course, it is a matter of whether you like it or not, but you may discover a new side to it when combined with bourbon or spicy grain whiskey. In particular, the combination with warm milk creates a sweet and gentle finish.
7. Conclusion
A chaser is not just a palate cleanser, but something that broadens the ways you can enjoy whiskey. One fun thing to do is to choose a chaser that suits the characteristics of the brand and your mood that day. If you want to experience the deep and delicate aftertaste found in old bottles from before the 1980s , we recommend savoring the whiskey slowly without a chaser. After your palate has been refined, take a sip of the chaser.
This may lead to a new discovery.