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Is There a Right Way to Drink Whiskey?

Distillers and experts coalesce around a few simple rules. Plus: five limited-release whiskies that are worth the investment
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We’re already more than two weeks into 2026, but I’m still going to say it: Happy New Year, Top Shelfers! Brad Japhe here. A statute of limitations on well-wishing is about as palatable to me as a month’s abstinence from whiskey.

But with alcohol consumption declining across the board, the trend these days is to drink less, and drink better. So today we’re going back to the tasting basics to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. But first, some notable news: