How to Drink Whiskey Like A Pro

No, we’re not talking about clean presentation. We referring to how to drink whiskey straight. Nothing added or taken away. To start, you will want a room temperature single measure (varies country to country, generally 1oz or 30ml) of whiskey in a glass. No measure? No problem. 3 Jameson bottle caps of whiskey should do the trick.

Does the glass the matter? No. Depending on where you order your whiskey, the glass a whiskey will be served in can vary greatly, from Ikea’s finest tumblers to crystal glasses. However, we do hold some bias when serving our very own, Jameson Irish whiskey. We recommend pairing with our Jameson Tumbler Glasses for the best whiskey-tasting experience.

Check out our blog Whiskey Neat vs on the Rocks to discover which is for you. 

How to Drink Irish Whiskey: The Classic Approach

Room temperature is key (18–23ºC). Cooler temperatures can dull the flavour, while too much heat can exaggerate harsher notes. For tasting whiskey properly, neat and at room temperature is your best bet. When serving to a guest, start simple — neat first, then let them add water, ice cubes, whiskey stones, or even a mixer, depending on their preference. It’s easier to add than to take away.

Sipping whiskey properly starts with the nose. Gently bring the glass to your nose and take in the aroma. With Jameson Original, you might pick up sweet, floral, and spicy notes. Depending on the whiskey, you may also notice hints of wood, smoke, or pepper.

Next comes the first sip. No need to knock it back — this isn’t a movie scene. Take a small sip and let it sit on your tongue. With Jameson, expect spicy, nutty, and vanilla notes with a touch of sherry sweetness. Everyone experiences flavour differently — some find it floral, others more peppery. Let the whiskey speak for itself.

You’ll likely notice the alcohol first. At 40% ABV, it can catch beginners off guard. But give it time — what might feel like a burn at first becomes part of the experience.

Ask yourself:

• Does the alcohol hit first or blend in gradually?
• Where do you feel it — the tip of the tongue, cheeks, or throat?
• Is the sensation warming or numbing?

There are no wrong answers — discovering what you enjoy is all part of learning how to drink whiskey properly.

And then comes the finish.

No, not the end of the article — the finish of the whiskey! This is the lingering flavour that remains after swallowing. Jameson has a smooth, lasting finish, meaning it’s easy to drink and its character sticks around. Some whiskeys have a warmer finish that travels down the chest. Others reveal surprising sweetness at the very end.

First time drinking whiskey? You’re in good company — everyone has a first dram. And no, you don’t need to pretend you know what “cask strength” means just yet.

• Start with a smooth operator: A triple-distilled Irish whiskey like Jameson is your best friend here. It’s mellow, approachable, and won’t fight back on first contact.
• Sip, don’t slug: Take a small mouthful and let it roll over your tongue. There’s no medal for speed — only flavour.
• Smell before you sip: A quick sniff can tell you a lot — think of it as the whiskey’s opening line. It might be floral, fruity, or even a bit spicy.
• Add a splash of water (if you like): Not because it’s fancy, but because it genuinely helps. A few drops can tone down the alcohol’s fire and bring hidden notes to the surface.
• Don’t panic if it burns a bit: That warming sensation? Totally normal. Give it a moment, and your taste buds will adjust — like sitting in a hot bath.

And if you really want to skip the guesswork? Join us on a Jameson Bow Street Distillery Tour, where our ambassadors will walk you through your first sip like the whiskey wingmen (and wingwomen) they are.

Now that you’re armed with all this whiskey knowledge, why not put it to the test where the magic happens — our Jameson Distillery in Bow Street, Dublin?

• Take part in an expert-led whiskey tasting: Learn how to drink Jameson properly — neat, with water, or even as part of a classic cocktail.
• Smell, sip, and swirl like a seasoned whiskey drinker (or at least look like one).
• Try exclusive expressions you won’t find anywhere else — straight from the source.
• Learn the secrets of triple distillation — yes, it’s smoother for a reason, and you’ll discover exactly why.
• Immerse yourself in the full whiskey experience — sights, sounds, smells, and all.

It’s a tasting, a tour, and a crash course in how to drink Irish whiskey like a true connoisseur — or at least someone who knows their pot still from their highball.

Ready for the real deal? Book your Bow Street experience here — and bring your palate. It’s about to get cultured.