Whiskey is one of the world’s most beloved spirits, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. From how it should be enjoyed to where it can be made, myths and misinformation swirl around every bottle. It’s time to separate whiskey facts from fiction. Today, we are clearing up the 10 most common whiskey myths that might be clouding your glass.

Myth 1: Older whiskey is always better.

Fact: Age isn’t the only factor determining quality. While aging can mellow a whiskey and add complexity, over-aging can harm the flavor. The type of cask, how it was stored, and the distiller’s skill are equally important. Some younger whiskies can be vibrant and full of character, especially Rye.

Myth 2: You should only drink whiskey neat.

Fact: How you enjoy your whiskey is a matter of personal preference. Everyone’s palate is different. Adding a little water or ice can open up the aromas and flavors. Many classic cocktails also feature whiskey. There’s no right or wrong way to drink it.

Myth 3: The color of whiskey indicates its age and quality.

Fact: While whiskey does gain color from the oak casks during aging, most experts say 100% of the color comes from the barrel, the darkness doesn’t always equate to age or quality. Caramel coloring (E150a) is sometimes added to standardize the color, especially in Canada. The type of cask and its previous contents also significantly influence the color.  Secondary aging in wine casks can also add a darker hue to the distillate.

Myth 4: All Scotch whiskies are heavily peated and smoky.

Fact: Peatiness is a characteristic found in some Scotch whiskies, particularly those from the Islay region. However, Scotland has five main whisky-producing regions, each with its own distinct styles. Many Scotch whiskies are fruity, spicy, or sweet with no noticeable peat influence.

Myth 5: Whiskey was invented in Scotland.

Fact: While Scotland has a long and rich history of whisky production, the origins of distillation likely trace back much further to Mesopotamia. The techniques probably spread through Europe, with the first written records of whisky production appearing in Ireland before Scotland.

Myth 6: Adding water to whiskey is sacrilege.

Fact: Adding a few drops of water can enhance the aromas and flavors of whiskey by reducing the alcohol concentration slightly. This allows more volatile compounds to release.

Myth 7: You need fancy crystal glassware to enjoy whiskey.

Fact: While a nice glass can enhance the experience, it’s not essential. A simple tumbler or even a coffee mug will do just fine. The most important thing is the whiskey itself. But one may find a nice heavy glass adds to the enjoyment of consumption.

Myth 8: Once bottled, whiskey continues to age.

Fact: Unlike wine, whiskey only ages in the cask. Once it’s bottled, the aging process stops. The date on the bottle indicates the youngest whiskey in the blend and how long it matured in the barrel.

Myth 9: Wetting the cork with whiskey preserves it.

Fact: The high alcohol content in whiskey can cause the cork to dry out and potentially crumble. It’s best to store bottles upright to prevent the liquid from touching the cork.

Myth 10: Bourbon must be made in Kentucky.

Fact: Although nearly 95% of Bourbon is made in Kentucky, Bourbon can be mad anywhere in the United States.  States such as Texas, Michigan & Colorado all have successful distilleries. Kentucky has a long history in Bourbon production, plentiful crops and an experienced work force that gives it an advantage.  One could say the best Bourbon is made in Kentucky, I believe that, but it can be produced anywhere in the USA.

At the end of the day, whiskey is meant to be enjoyed—however you prefer it. The history is rich, the rules are fewer than you might think, and the beauty lies in its variety. Whether it’s neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, exploring whiskey should be fun, not intimidating. So pour yourself a glass, ditch the myths, and and enjoy whiskey the way it was meant to be—on your terms.