How full should a Whisky glass be?

Answered by Bill Hernandez

As a seasoned sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that the art of pouring is a delicate balance. The amount of whiskey you pour into your glass can greatly affect your tasting experience. To achieve the perfect pour, I recommend using the two-finger rule.

When using the two-finger rule, you pour the whiskey to the equivalent of two fingers on the side of your glassware. This means filling the glass to a level that is approximately the width of two fingers from the top. This allows for the ideal amount of air to mix with the whiskey, enhancing its aromas and flavors.

Pouring to the two-finger mark ensures that you have enough whiskey in your glass to fully appreciate its characteristics, but not too much that it overwhelms your senses. Whiskey tasting is a delicate process that requires you to savor and analyze the intricate nuances of the spirit, and having the right amount of whiskey in your glass is crucial to this experience.

It's worth noting that the two-finger rule is a guideline rather than a strict measurement. The size of your fingers and the shape of your glassware can vary, so you may need to adjust accordingly. The goal is to have enough whiskey in the glass to swirl, sniff, and sip comfortably without spilling or losing the whiskey's aromas.

If you find that you've poured too little whiskey, feel free to refill your glass and adjust accordingly. Experimenting with different amounts can be a fun way to explore the whiskey's flavors and aromas. Just remember to pour in small increments to avoid overfilling the glass and diluting the whiskey.

In my personal experience, I've found that adhering to the two-finger rule allows me to fully appreciate the complexities of different whiskies. It provides a balanced ratio of whiskey to air, allowing the aromas to develop and the flavors to unfold on my palate.

To sum it up, when pouring whiskey, aim to fill your glass to the equivalent of two fingers on the side. This will provide the perfect amount of whiskey for you to savor and enjoy. Remember, you can always refill your glass if desired, but for tasting purposes, the two-finger rule is a reliable guideline to follow. So go ahead, pour yourself a glass, and embark on a journey of whiskey exploration.