My World of WhiskeyNeat vs. Straight Up vs. On The RocksMix-Up
Three ways to order a pour. "Straight up" has nothing to do with Straight whiskey.
NeatNothing added
Poured at room temperature straight from the bottle.
- The usual way to taste a whiskey
"A neat pour of Weller."
Straight UpChilled, no ice
Stirred or shaken with ice, then strained into the glass.
- Often confused with neat
"A Manhattan, straight up."
On The RocksOver ice
Poured over ice cubes.
- Cools and slowly dilutes the whiskey
"Bourbon on the rocks."
Why It Matters
Bartenders use these words differently. If you want it at room temperature with nothing added, ask for it neat.
Related Terms
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