Last Updated on April 3, 2024 by ETC Team
If you’re a whiskey lover, you likely have a favorite way to sip your libation of choice. And whether you like to drink whiskey neat, with a splash of water, or on the rocks, chances are the question has come up whether or not to give whiskey stones a try. By adding water, you open up the whiskey allowing more subtle, hidden flavors and tones to breathe and come forward. By adding ice cubes, you can achieve the same goal but also chills the whiskey. As the ice slowly melts, the cool water moves through the whiskey as it reaches a preferred temperature. But what if you wish to enjoy your whiskey chilled yet wish to avoid diluting it in any way? Whiskey Stones may just be the handy solution you’re looking for.
What are Whiskey Stones?
Whiskey stones are not a new accessory having been around for a little over ten years, but they’ve started to become popular for bourbon drinkers and as gifts for whiskey lovers. Whiskey stones are shaped into standard ice cubes and made of a non-porous soapstone that can be frozen and added to your drink. The soapstone is a perfect material for absorbing cold temperatures. And because it’s non-porous natural stone, this means no unwanted flavors or smells will affect the taste and aroma of your drink. Soapstone is also a fairly soft stone, and because the cubes are typically molded with rounded edges, you don’t have to worry about them scratching or breaking your glasses.
While most whiskey stones are made from soapstone, granite and even stainless steel varieties have become increasingly popular. Any of these stones are available in a number of styles and sizes which makes it easy to find some that will fit any type of glass.
How Do Whiskey Stones Work?
After placing the frozen stones into a glass of whiskey, they begin to absorb the heat from the liquid. This allows you to enjoy a cold pour without the whisky losing any of its original flavor. However, the lack of melting that typically occurs with ice cubes means that the whisky stones won’t keep your drink as cold for as long as ice cubes would. Instead, the stones will retain the heat and after about thirty minutes, your drink will ease back to room temperature. That being said, whiskey stones can bring down the temperature long enough for most people to finish the drink at their preferred temperature.
How to Use Whiskey Stones
The whiskey stones will need to be chilled for a minimum of four hours before use in order to achieve the proper effect of the stones. You may find it’s easier to store them in the freezer so there is no prep time needed before use. When you are ready to enjoy a drink, simply remove the stones from the freezer and put as many as you prefer into your glass. Once you pour your whiskey, you will need to wait just a few minutes before dinking to allow the stones time to absorb the heat of the drink. After this, you are ready to enjoy your refreshingly cold pour. After use, simply wash, dry, and place the stones into their storage bag. Return them to the freezer so they will be ready for the next time.
How Can I Give Whiskey Stones a Try?
If you like the idea of sipping your next glass of whiskey, bourbon, even your favorite cocktail without the melted ice diluting your drink you should probably give whiskey stones a try. Below we’ve included some of our favorites that vary in material, style, and are even paired with glassware. You will find they can be a unique gift, interesting conversation piece, or a neat addition for any home bartender.
1. Quiseen Grey Beverage Chilling Stones
Rating: 4.3 / 5
This set may seem standard but can really make a difference for your drinks.
The Quiseen Grey Beverage Chilling Stones are made from natural Soapstone and can be used for anything from cocktails to wine and even non-alcoholic beverages.
These particular stones come in a set of nine with a pouch for easy storage. Our particular set came with a pair of stainless steel tongs which made placement and retrieval of the stones easy and convenient.
These stones really catch the eye and add a pleasant aesthetic to the drink of you or your guests. At about 3/4″ these cubes are the perfect size to add to most any size glass, at your preference.
With over 12,000 reviews on Amazon, these beverage chilling stones have received popular feedback that includes how quickly the stones get cold, how effectively they keep temperature in a drink, and their convenient size.
2. Angde Granite Whiskey Stones
Rating: 4.2 / 5
We mentioned earlier than whiskey stones can come in a variety of materials and this nine piece set of granite stones changes up the material yet offers the same desired chilling effect without watering down your favorite drink.
The gorgeous wooden storage box that is included adds an elegant look to any bar display. Velvet carrying pouch and a small set of tongs add even more value to this impressive set.
Theses granite whiskey stones were given positive ratings for their overall quality and design. The gift box was also a welcome addition making this a popular gift item.
3. Mixology Whiskey Stone Gift Set
Rating: 4.8 / 5
If you’re looking for an all-in-one package this set just might do the trick. The Granite stones and several included items makes this set great as a gift or to freshen up your personal barware.
The striking set of eight granite stones adds unique detail to any glass while perfectly chilling your selected beverage. The appeal of this set is raised by the included 10oz matching whiskey glasses, the slate coasters to protect your bar or table, and beautiful wooden whiskey crate for storage. This set even includes a deck of whiskey recipe cards to keep you guessing which cocktail you’ll want to chill next.
This set is very popular among gift givers, though you may end up keeping it for yourself. Many reviewers were impressed by the quality and found that all the included items really raised the value of this. Another perk of this set is the great customer service that comes with the product. We all makes mistakes and when we dropped one of our glasses a simple email was all we needed to get a quick replacement.