Alcohol In Whisky Today

At high concentrations (such as Cask Strength), this prickle can actually inhibit the drinker's ability to taste subtle notes. The alcohol acts as an anesthetic on the nose, numbing the olfactory senses if inhaled too aggressively. This is why many enthusiasts add water to their whisky.

While these are present in minute quantities, they heavily influence the character of the spirit. For instance, heavier congeners can contribute oily or fruity textures, while certain aldehydes contribute grassy or floral notes. The distiller’s cuts—the separation of the "heads" (too volatile), "hearts" (the drinkable spirit), and "tails" (heavy oils and congeners)—determine the balance of these elements. alcohol in whisky