Dilution of Whisky -- the Molecular Perspective (nature.com)

From a new published paper in Scientific Report by Bjorn C. G. Karlsson and Ran Friedman: Despite the growing knowledge of the nature of water-alcohol mixtures on a molecular level, much less is known on the interaction of water, alcohol and small solutes. In particular, the nature of the interaction between the solvent and taste-carrying molecules, such as guaiacol, is not known. To address this gap, we used MD simulations to study the distribution of guaiacol in water-alcohol mixtures of different concentrations. Our simulations revealed that guaiacol is present at the air-liquid interface at ethanol concentrations that correspond to the alcohol content of bottled or diluted whiskies. Because the drink is consumed at the interface first, our findings help to understand why adding water to whisky helps to enhance its taste. A molecular understanding of the nature of taste compounds in water-alcohol mixtures allows for optimizing the taste of alcoholic spirits. [...] Overall, there is a fine balance between diluting the whisky to taste and diluting the whisky to waste.

Comments

Slashdotters admittedly have large differences

[93 Escort Wagon]

I am hoping, though, we can all come together and agree that:

The dilution of whiskey is morally wrong.

Re:Slashdotters admittedly have large differences

[fahrbot-bot]

I am hoping, though, we can all come together and agree that:

The dilution of whiskey is morally wrong.

Against any dilution? Sounds like you're a member of the malt-right. :-)

Whiskey was "just right"

[reboot246]

Boss: How did like that bottle of whiskey I gave you for Christmas?
Employee: It was just right.
Boss: Just right? Is that all?
Employee: Yep, if it had been any worse, I couldn't have drunk it and if it had been any better, you wouldn't have given it to me.

Re:Whisky != Whiskey

[rogoshen1]

just when you think audiophiles are the most insufferable cunts on the face of the planet...