Neat
Also known as: straight, pure
A spirit served at room temperature in a glass without ice, water, or any other additions.
Ordering a spirit neat is the purest way to experience what is in the bottle. No ice, no water, no mixing - just the spirit itself at room temperature in a glass. For whiskey enthusiasts, brandy lovers, and anyone who appreciates fine spirits, understanding how to order and enjoy drinks neat is essential. When you order a spirit neat, you receive it exactly as it comes from the bottle, poured into an appropriate glass at room temperature. The standard pour is typically 1.5-2 oz, though this varies by establishment. Nothing is added, and the spirit has not been chilled or diluted in any way. This differs fundamentally from other serving styles. On the rocks means over ice. Up or straight up means chilled by shaking or stirring with ice, then strained into a glass without ice. With a splash means a small amount of water has been added. Neat means none of these - pure, unadulterated spirit. Drinking neat allows you to experience the complete character of a spirit. Premium whiskeys, aged rums, fine cognacs, and quality tequilas often reveal their best qualities when served neat. The distiller and blender crafted these spirits for specific flavor profiles that ice can dull or water can alter. Temperature plays a crucial role in aroma perception. At room temperature, volatile aromatic compounds evaporate more readily, delivering more complex nose. Cold temperatures suppress these aromatics, which is why many whiskey purists insist on neat service for serious tasting. Single malt Scotch whisky is perhaps the most commonly ordered neat spirit. Bourbon and rye whiskey also shine neat, especially well-aged expressions. Cognac and aged brandies are traditional neat sippers. Aged rum and quality aged tequila reward neat drinking as well. A rocks glass is traditional for casual service, but serious tasting calls for a nosing glass. The Glencairn glass, with its tulip shape, concentrates aromas toward the nose. The glass should be room temperature - chilled glasses defeat the purpose of neat service. Start with your nose when drinking neat. Bring the glass to your nose and inhale gently. Take small sips initially, letting the spirit coat your palate. Many experts suggest adding a few drops of water after your initial neat tasting, as this can open up certain flavor compounds.
💡 Pro Tips
- Use a nosing glass like a Glencairn for serious tasting
- Let premium spirits breathe in the glass for a minute before sipping
- Add a few drops of water after tasting neat to see how flavors change
- Neat is ideal for comparing similar spirits side by side
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing neat with straight up (straight up is chilled, neat is room temperature)
- Drinking harsh or young spirits neat when they would benefit from dilution
- Using a chilled glass for neat service - this defeats the purpose
- Rushing through a neat pour instead of savoring it
