Whiskey sticks, also known as whiskey stones or whiskey rocks, are small cubes made of soapstone that are used to chill whiskey and other spirits without diluting them. The soapstone allows the whiskey sticks to absorb the cold temperature of the freezer or refrigerator without impairing the flavor of the liquor. Let’s explore the composition, origins, and uses of whiskey stones in more detail.
The Composition of Whiskey Stones
Whiskey stones are most commonly made from soapstone, a metamorphic rock that is composed primarily of talc and magnesium. Soapstone is ideal for whiskey stones because it has high heat retention and low conductivity properties. This means the stones can be chilled to very cold temperatures but will not cause liquids to dilute or become watered down when added.
In addition to talc and magnesium, soapstone may contain varying amounts of other mineral constituents like chlorite, amphiboles, dolomite, and calcite. The soft, nontoxic nature of soapstone makes it safe to use in contact with foods and beverages.
While soapstone is the most popular material for whiskey stones, they may also be made from:
- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
- Silicon
- Granite
- Marble
- Sandstone
- Quartz
Each material will have slightly different properties in terms of chilling capability, heat retention, and interaction with the whiskey. Stainless steel and aluminum chill very quickly but will also impart a metallic taste. Silicon and granite stones maintain cold well but take longer to initially chill down than metals. Marble and sandstone are very porous and may absorb liquid and aromas. Quartz offers a good middle ground option.
The Origins of Whiskey Stones
Using stones to chill drinks is an ancient practice, but purpose-made whiskey stones are a relatively recent invention. Most sources cite the creation of the first soapstone whiskey stones around 2007-2008. They quickly gained popularity as an alternative to ice cubes due to their chilling power without dilution.
Early pioneers in the whiskey stone market included companies like Quicksilver Glass, Mineral Ice, and Whiskey Rocks. These companies saw the potential for soapstone cubes as a profitable new barware item and began manufacturing larger quantities.
The origins of whiskey stones are often attributed to the Teroforma company in Vermont, which launched its own line of soapstone chilling cubes in 2008. Teroforma’s founders came up with the idea while enjoying whiskey on the rocks themselves and noticing the effect of dilution over time.
Once a few brands proved the viability of the concept, the market rapidly expanded over the next decade. Dozens of companies now offer their own take on whiskey stones made from varied materials and designed in different shapes and sizes.
How to Use Whiskey Stones
Whiskey stones are very simple to use!
- Start by placing the stones in the freezer for at least 4 hours or overnight. This gives them sufficient time to chill fully.
- Add 2-3 frozen whiskey stones directly to your glass of whiskey, bourbon, or scotch. More can be added for maximum chilling.
- Let the stones chill your spirit for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy immediately as the drink chills or let rest a bit longer if you prefer very cold liquor.
- The stones will retain their cold temperature for 30+ minutes while chilling your drink slowly. Add more frozen stones as needed to maintain the chill.
Whiskey stones can be reused indefinitely. Rinse them off after each use and return them to the freezer. It’s recommended to cycle through at least two sets of stones so one set can be chilling while the other is in use.
The Pros and Cons of Whiskey Stones
Let’s examine some of the key benefits and potential drawbacks of using whiskey stones instead of regular ice cubes:
Pros
- No watering down – stones chill without diluting
- Preserve flavor – stones won’t impair or alter taste
- Reusable – stones can be used repeatedly
- Non-porous – stones won’t absorb liquid or aroma
- Long-lasting chill – retains cold for 30+ minutes
- Customizable – can add more stones for colder temp
- Eye-catching – unique visual appeal in drinks
Cons
- Slow initial chill – takes hours to fully freeze vs ice
- Can chip glasses – may damage delicate glassware
- Small parts hazard – could pose choking risk if swallowed
- Temperature regulation – harder to control exact drink temp
- Can impart mineral flavors – some stone materials may alter taste
Comparisons to Ice Cubes
The biggest differentiation between whiskey stones and regular ice is dilution. Ice melts when added to spirits, slowly watering down the drink over time. Many whiskey aficionados consider this undesirable, since it changes the flavor profile and mouthfeel of the liquor.
In contrast, stones chill drinks without melting or diluting. The temperature decreases more gradually than ice and is sustained for a longer duration. However, stones take significantly longer to reach maximum chilling temperature compared to ice.
Ice cubes do have the advantages of being readily available, better initial cooling, and precise temperature control depending on the quantity added. But for those who wish to enjoy undiluted chilled whiskey, stones present a compelling non-ice alternative.
Other Uses for Whiskey Stones
While designed specifically for chilling whiskey and other brown spirits, whiskey stones can also be utilized to keep a variety of beverages cold:
- Cocktails – particularly those without ice already added
- Wine – especially lighter chilled wines like white or rosé
- Soda – to avoid watering down from melted ice
- Water – maintain cold drinking water without dilution
- Tea/coffee – prevent iced coffee or tea from getting watery
- Juice – keep juice chilled without compromising flavor
- Beer – useful for beers meant to be served cold but not frozen
The non-diluting chilling properties of whiskey stones make them ideal for any context where maintaining pure flavor is desired. Just keep in mind they are not a substitute for ice in drinks that need rapid cooling and dilution by design, like a shaken cocktail.
Popular Brands of Whiskey Stones
There are dozens of companies offering various takes on whiskey stones these days. Some of the most popular luxury and premium brands include:
| Brand | Material | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Teroforma | Soapstone | Original soapstone stones; engraved; gift box |
| Glacier Rocks | Soapstone | Large cubes for maximum chilling |
| Quiseen | Stainless Steel | Durable stainless construction; ridges |
| Gelexi | Soapstone | Realistic stone look; variety of cuts |
| Mixology & Craft | Granite | Elegant marble gift box set |
There are also many quality budget and mid-range options available. Do some research to find a whiskey stone brand and style that best suits your needs.
Factors to Consider When Buying Whiskey Stones
Keep the following factors in mind when selecting whiskey stones:
- Material – Soapstone is traditional but consider pros/cons of other stone types
- Size – Larger cubes provide more chilling power
- Shape – Cubes, spheres, discs, and other shapes for visual appeal
- Quantity – Have at least 6-8 stones for adequate chilling
- Features – Engravings, storage pouch, gift box, etc.
- Price – Sets range from $10 budget to $70+ luxury
- Manufacturer reputation – Read reviews and check quality
Think about when, where, and how frequently you plan to use the stones. Barware that complements your whiskey drinking habits will provide the best experience.
Caring for Whiskey Stones
With proper care, whiskey stones can last for many years. Here are some tips for maintaining your set:
- Hand wash gently after each use
- Towel dry completely before freezing again
- Use plastic trays or bags when freezing to prevent damage
- Don’t use extreme subzero freezers
- Avoid leaving in warm environments
- Store in protective pouch or box when not in use
- Inspect regularly for cracks or cloudiness
Avoid exposing the stones to rapid temperature changes or moisture that could degrade the material over time. With careful handling, quality whiskey stones should endure for extensive chilling sessions.
Innovations in Whiskey Stone Designs
As whiskey stones increase in popularity, brands continue innovating with new shapes, features, and designs. Some examples of the latest whiskey stone innovations include:
- Laser engraved stones with custom logos or designs
- Stones containing interior metal chunks to enhance chilling
- Larger mega-blocks designed for chilling full bottles of liquor
- Whiskey stones that glow in the dark for decorative effect
- Stones with embedded magnets so they stick together
- Whiskey stones made from alternate materials like quartz or obsidian
- Bluetooth enabled stones that monitor the real-time temperature
- Levitating stones that float above drinks for a magic effect
As technology continues advancing, more creative whiskey stone innovations will likely emerge. But even classic simple soapstone cubes should remain a staple for the purist whiskey drinker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are whiskey stones safe to use?
Yes, whiskey stones made from non-toxic materials like soapstone, stainless steel, or silicon are generally considered food-safe and fine for direct contact with drinks. Avoid cheap plastic or painted stones that could leach chemicals.
How many whiskey stones do I need?
Most sets come with 6-8 stones which is enough for adequate chilling in a standard rocks glass. Larger quantities are better for chilling bigger vessels or batch cocktails.
Can whiskey stones break glassware?
There is a minor risk of breakage depending on the stone material and fragility of the glass. Use caution adding stones to very delicate glassware.
Do whiskey stones need to be refrigerated?
No, whiskey stones only need to be placed in the freezer to fully chill. Refrigeration alone will not make them cold enough for proper chilling use.
How do you prevent whiskey stones from cracking?
Avoid extreme temperature shocks and ensure stones are fully dried before freezing to prevent ice expansion cracking. Store in protective cases when not in use.
Conclusion
Whiskey stones provide an ingenious means of chilling whiskey and spirits without diluting their flavor and character. Simple in concept but elegant in application, stones are a must-have accessory for any whiskey lover. Their rise from obscure invention to essential barware staple is a testament to their effectiveness and appeal. While new designs and materials emerge, classic soapstone cubes remain the standard bearer for aficionados who prefer their whiskey straight up, chilled but not diluted.