What are Whiskey Stones?
Seems like there is always a new gadget for making great cocktails. One that’s stood the test of time are whiskey stones or whiskey rocks. Whiskey stones have been on the market for over a decade, but what are whiskey stones? What are they made of? What are they used for? We break down everything you need to know about whiskey stones.
What are Whiskey Stones Made of?
Whiskey stones or whiskey rocks are made of actual stone, cut into small cube shapes to resemble ice cubes. Most whiskey stones are made from soapstone. Soapstone is a non-porous natural and soft stone. It’s a perfect material for absorbing cold temperatures. The stones are usually cut with round edges, so you don’t need to worry about scratching or damaging your glasses.
Although most whiskey stones are made from soapstone, there are newer ones made from stainless steel or granite. These new types of whiskey rocks are becoming more popular. Stainless steel is particularly effective as they usually contain gel on the inside that freezes well. The gel will keep these stones colder for longer time periods than the other types of whiskey stones. However, the stainless steel whiskey stones can give your spirit a metallic taste.
“On the Rocks” Takes on a Whole New Meaning
No matter which material you prefer, whiskey stones are used to cool your spirits, without diluting the drink. Just like ice cubes, when whiskey stones are added to your glass, they absorb the heat from the liquid – cooling your whiskey down to the perfect temperature. Since the whiskey stones do not melt, your whiskey will remain as strong as when you first poured it into the glass.
However, whiskey stones cannot keep your drink cold as long as ice cubes. The whiskey stones retain the heat they absorbed, since they do not melt. Which means the entire glass will be back to room temperature in about 30 minutes. So you’ll need to drink up!
Some people prefer the dilution of whiskey that comes from ice and may want to enjoy their spirit a little longer. In these cases ice cubes are a better bet. But if you want to enjoy your whiskey neat, whiskey stones may be the way to go. Either way the next time you’re at the bar and order a drink “on the rocks” you may need to clarify what kind of “rocks” you’re looking for.
How to Use Whiskey Stones?
When buying and using whiskey stones at home, they need to be stored in the freezer. They should be in the freezer for at least four hours before use, for the optimal results in your drink. When they’re ready to use, simply add them to the glass like you would add ice.
The stones come in all shapes and sizes these days. Some whiskey stones are smaller to resemble typical ice cubes and some are larger stones to resemble the spherical or large square ice cubes that are so popular these days. There are also whiskey stones that come in more novelty shapes like bullets or skulls.
Once your whiskey stones are in the glass, let the spirit sit for a couple minutes to allow the stones to absorb the heat. Then you are ready to enjoy a nice cool (and perfectly neat) whiskey.
Cheers!
