Many think it's a sacrilege to mix water with whisk(e)y, but real connoisseurs know that a few drops of water enhances the taste. They are right - and researchers have discovered why.
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True whisk(e)y lovers have known it all along: A few drops of water in the drink and the flavor will come out much better. However, until now nobody knew why this was. Two biochemists solved the mystery: Björn Karlsson and Ran Friedman from the Linnaeus University Centre for Biomaterials Chemistry in the Swedish city of Kalmar discovered that water makes a specific aromatic substance reach its full potential at the surface of the liquid. They published their findings on August 17th 2017 in the journal "Scientific Reports."
The production of whisk(e)y involves several steps: Similar to the brewing of beer, it starts with a mash made of malt. It ferments in a kettle when yeast is added. It is then distilled up to twice. The distillate holds about 70 percent of alcohol in the end.
In the next step, the distillers fill it into wooden kegs, where it sits while the alcohol level gradually drops down to about 55 to 65 percent. In the end, the distillers dilute the whisk(e)y with water to bring the alcohol concentration to about 40 percent for bottling.
The lignin in the wooden kegs turns into the phenol molecule guaiacol. It is responsible for the smoky taste. Image: Imago/Eibner Europa
The smokey taste comes from the wood
The taste of the whisk(e)y depends on a variety of factors: The malt, the mash, the timing and temperature of fermentation. But probably one of the most important aspects is the quality of the wooden barrels. They are responsible for adding a key flavor to the liquid: A phenol molecule called guaiacol.
This aromatic substance develops in the wood, where bacteria or temperature lead to the reduction of lignin – the material which makes wood sturdy. Also in smoked foods guaiacol is responsible for the flavor - or in fine wines with a specific taste of cork.
Neither too little nor too much
The scientists simulated at the computer how guaiacol, water and alcohol interact at different alcohol concentrations. They found out, that up to an alcohol concentration of 45 percent, the guaiacol moves primarily to the upper level of the glass, close to where the liquid meets the air. There it displays it's fullest flavor and taste.
Too much alcohol in the drink can spoil the flavor: Above 59 percent, the guaiacol will sink in the glass. This is why it is advised to add some water to fine whisk(e)ys.
But be careful and don't overdo it: There is a fine balance between enhancing the taste and ruining it.
fs/mds (dpa)
10 reasons to visit Scotland
Natural beauty and brave people! The Scots say yes to Europe and welcome to tourists. There are a lot of reasons to visit the country.
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Edinburgh
The Scottish capital is over 1,300 years old and is packed with culture and history. The castle, the old town center, and the many museums make Edinburgh Scotland's most popular tourist destination.
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Scottish Parliament
A sight-seeing tour of Edinburgh should always include this futuristic building. The Scottish Parliament has been sitting here since 2004. On March 28, on the eve of the British government formally launching Brexit, a majority of delegates here supported a new Scottish independence referendum.
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The Highlands
Mountains, moors and sheer endless heaths: For centuries, the Highlands provided the backdrop for many battles for independence against the English. Back then, the clan chiefs used to retreat into the Highland. Today, hikers get to enjoy the region's tranquility and untouched nature.
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Hogwarts-Express
Those who don't want to hike can always hop on a train, like the Jacobite Steam Train, which is better known as the Hogwarts Express. The Harry Potter movies made this traditional train and the rough beauty of the Highlands world famous.
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Loch Ness
In Scotland a lake is called a "loch," and this one is thought to be home to Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, an aquatic being said to live in the lake. Nobody has actually seen it, but every year newspapers run stories of reported sightings. Far more real are the old stones of Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland's most beautiful castle ruins.
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The Highland Games
There are nearly 100 Highland Games events which all include curious disciplines like tug-a-war, the caber toss, and the stone-put. Here Scots prove that they are real men under their kilts! Originally, the Highland Games were part of Scottish clan gatherings. Today, they are popular public festivals for locals and tourists.
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Blair Castle
Scotland has more castles than inhabitants, and Blair Castle is one of the most beautiful. It was regularly renovated over the centuries, but its origins date back to the year 1269. It has 32 fully furbished rooms on show as well as an armory and a display of hunting trophies.
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Callanais Stone Circle
Who would have guessed that the Scotts were the inventors of stone circles! One of the most impressive, the Calanais Standing Stones, can be found on the Isle of Lewis. This gigantic monument encompassing 50 stones was created some 5,000 years ago. England's Stonehenge is a good 1,000 years younger and yet more famous. How did the English do that?
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Glasgow
These modern day monuments can be found in Glasgow. After the industrial decline, Scotland's biggest city reemerged with a new image. Modern architecture and design now define the cityscape. The Clyde district was developed on the old riverfront, which is where you'll find these buildings, the Hydro and Conference Centre, whose Clyde Auditorium was designed by Sir Norman Foster.
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Scottish whisky
It is called the "water of life" and it is Scotland's national drink. There are more than 100 whisky distilleries in Scotland and the list of the various types and blends seems never-ending. So all that remains to be said is "Slainte Mhath" - a local toast. And we say: here's to a wonderful travel destination and its very friendly people.
