Whiskey stones have become increasingly popular in recent years. So why all the hype? Whiskey stones offer a way to chill a glass of bourbon, scotch, etc. without watering it down like ice does as it melts. One simply puts the stones in the freezer for a few hours prior to use, adds them his or her favorite glass, and viola! a chilled glass of whiskey without watering anything down.

 

Are these stones for everyone? Sure, however they are by no means required to enjoy any spirit. Enthusiasts in comment sections often shame those adding ice or water to their favorite spirit as unmanly or weak. We beg to differ. Just as every bottle’s contents is a little different, so is every palate. If you prefer you whiskey with a little less bite, please by all means continue to add ice or water. Further while the ice melts away leaving nothing at the bottom of the glass, one often has to contend with the remaining whiskey stones when trying to get the last drop out of a glass. That said, if you are looking for a way to chill your whiskey without watering it down or putting the entire bottle in the fridge for several hours, whiskey stones may be for you.

 

Whiskey stones are typically made of soapstone or granite. Both of these types of stones have no flavor and do not absorb odors or flavors. This ensuring that every pour tastes just as it should. We tend to shy away from the metallic coated variants as some do leave a slight metallic taste behind. The chilling effect of these stones is definitely noticeable, yet we have yet to come across a set of stones that chills as quickly as plain old ice. That said, whiskey stones are still a great alternative to ice when you don’t want your drink watered down and they tend to stay cooler longer. We find that they are best served on the front porch with a glass of whiskey in hand on a warmer summer night.

 

A few tips for using your stones.

  1. Always CAREFULLY add them to you glass first. Dropping them in after the pour risks breaking the glass (we broke this one) or worse, spilling some of your sweet nectar.
  2. Put them in the freezer for several hours before use. Most of the below recommend four hours, but we don’t really notice a difference after two hours of freezer time.
  3. Rinse them after each use. All of the below are dishwasher safe, but we try to avoid that given the temperature swings and dish detergent. Simply rinse them under warm water after each use and set them aside to dry for a few minutes before putting them in the freezer.
  4. Be careful getting the last sip. These things have a tendency to smack you in the face…and yes we know this from experience!
  5. As always, make sure you have enough to share. Your friends will thank you (and you will have a chance to show off how much chest hair you have because water is for wusses – kidding!)

 

We listed out top 3 favorites below. Have some you think we should try? Please leave us a comment and let us know.

 

Chillin’ Cubes – Set of 16

This set of 16 represents the best value for your money. We highly recommend these to ensure you always have enough stones to go around.

 

Quissen – Set of 9 Grey Beverage Chilling Stones

These are your standard no frills whiskey stones. They can be used in any spirt and are an excellent addition to any bar. However, this is only a set of nine, might as well go for the 16 pack listed above.

 

Amerigo Stones – Set of 9 with Wooden Storage Box

Another set of nine here that’s little more expensive BUT this includes a cool storage box. We don’t know what the long term effects of keeping the box in the freezer will be, but at this price point it’s not an issue. The box even acts as insulation when transporting these to your next party. Definitely a cool add on for a few dollars more.