The Art of Ordering Scotch at a Bar: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a first-time visitor, ordering Scotch at a bar can be a delightful experience when done the right way. This guide will walk you through the art of selecting and ordering your perfect Scotch, ensuring that you get the drink you desire and impress any bartenders with your knowledge and preferences.

Understanding the Basics

As with many spirits, ordering Scotch at a bar requires a bit of knowledge and finesse. Unlike ordering a simple beverage like a beer, where a particular brand might be implied, ordering Scotch means specifying the brand and your preferred way of serving. This is similar to walking into a bar and asking for a beer but with more specific preferences.

Common Ways to Order Scotch

To order a Scotch at a bar, start by specifying the brand and style. You can ask for a specific brand, or you might want a particular type of Scotch, such as a peaty Islay malt. For instance, if you prefer peaty Islay malts, you might ask for a Laphroaig. If you're not sure what brands a particular bar carries, don't hesitate to ask the bartender. They will guide you through the available options.

Specify Your Preferences

Once you know the brand or style of Scotch you want, specify your serving preference. Here are some common ways to order Scotch:

Neat: If you prefer the Scotch without any ice or water, simply say “Can I have a neat Scotch, please?” On the Rocks: If you want ice, you can say “On the rocks”, or more formally, “Please a Scotch on the rocks.” Splash of Water: To make the Scotch a bit more palatable, you can ask for a “splash of water” or a “little water”. This is often referred to as an “old fashioned” way of ordering, meaning a small dash of water to the Scotch. Threat: For a traditional experience, you can ask for a “Scotch and threat,” which means a dash of water added to the Scotch. Double: If you prefer a stronger taste, you can order a “double Scotch”.

Ordering Process in Detail

Here is a step-by-step guide to ordering a perfect Scotch:

Step 1: Approach the bar with a polite greeting. You might say “Good evening, sir/madam”. Step 2: Specify the brand of Scotch you want. For example, “I would like a Lagavulin please.” Step 3: Specify your serving preferences. If you want it neat, simply say “neat.” If you want a splash of water, you can say “with a splash of water”. Step 4: Pay for the drink and leave a tip if you find the service satisfactory. Step 5: Enjoy your Scotch, perhaps taking a moment to “contemplate the meaning of life” as you sip.

Common Expressions and Phrases

To make your order more specific and to ensure you get the drink you desire, you might use some common expressions like:

“Any brand will be fine, I will have a double please no ice.”

“Grouse, Teacher’s, or Bells will be fine.”

These phrases indicate to the bartender that you are flexible with the brand as long as it meets your serving preferences.

Conclusion

Ordering Scotch at a bar can be a delightful experience, and by following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you get the perfect drink every time. Remember, specifying the brand and your preferred method of serving will go a long way in making your order clear and ensuring that your experience is enjoyable.

Whether you are a casual drinker or a dedicated Scotch connoisseur, the key is to be clear and specific. By doing so, you will not only ensure that you get the right drink but also show appreciation for the complexity and craftsmanship of Scotch.