Buying Guide for the Best Whiskey Stones
When choosing whiskey stones, it's important to focus on how well they chill your drink without watering it down. Factors like the material, shape, and size can affect how efficiently the stones work and how enjoyable the experience is. Understanding these key aspects will help you pick stones that best match your drinking habits and preferences.MaterialWhiskey stones are most commonly made from materials like soapstone, stainless steel, or granite. The type of material determines how effectively the stones can absorb, retain, and transfer cold. Soapstone is gentle on glassware and has a subtle cooling effect, making it ideal for those who want a slight temperature drop. Stainless steel chills more quickly and stays cold longer, which is good if you like your drink extra cold. Granite offers a balance between these options. Think about your goals with chilling: gentle coolness or maximum cold, and choose the material accordingly.
Shape and SizeThe shape and size of whiskey stones influence how they fit in your glass and how much surface area they offer for chilling your beverage. Standard cubes are commonly used and fit most glasses well. Larger stones take longer to freeze but provide slower, steadier cooling, while smaller ones chill faster and can be used in smaller glasses. Spheres and other shapes can be more aesthetically pleasing and gentle on delicate glassware. Consider the type of glasses you usually use and how much space you prefer in your drink when picking the shape and size.
Ease of CleaningBecause these stones go directly into your drink, it's important that they're easy to clean. Some materials are dishwasher-safe, while others may need to be washed by hand. Smooth stones are less likely to trap flavors or residues, which could affect future drinks. Pick stones that suit your cleaning habits so maintenance doesn't become a hassle.
Packaging and StorageWhiskey stones often come with a storage pouch or case, which can keep them clean and organized in your freezer. Good packaging prevents the stones from absorbing freezer odors or becoming lost. If you value convenience and tidiness, look for stones that include thoughtful storage solutions.
Number of Stones in SetSets vary in the number of stones included, which determines how many drinks you can chill at once, or how many refills you can make before needing to re-freeze. If you often entertain guests or enjoy several drinks over an evening, a set with more stones might be practical. For occasional solo use, a smaller set may be plenty.