Phil's Whisky Gear Guide
The exact tools I use to taste, review, and enjoy whisky in every video. Built from 5+ years of testing what actually works.
I get asked about my gear constantly. Here's the honest truth: you don't need much to enjoy whisky, but the right tools make a real difference. This is everything I actually use, why I chose it, and what I'd buy if I was starting over.
Tasting Poster
First things first — the #1 thing I recommend to every whisky lover is the Whisky Flavour Tree Poster. It’s helped thousands explore flavour with confidence.
Check it out here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FirstPhil
Glencairn Whisky Glass
The industry standard for a reason
I've used this daily for 5+ years. The tulip shape concentrates aromas perfectly, and it's virtually indestructible. Every distillery uses these.
Get on Amazon →
~$8-12 each
Whisky Water Jug
Distilled water for opening up flavours
Game-changer for cask strength whiskies. A few drops transforms harsh alcohol into smooth complexity. This specific jug gives perfect control.
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~$15-20
Whisky Bottle Caps
Prevents oxidation when bottles are low
Absolute must-have. I learned this the hard way after losing great bottles to oxidation. These caps keep whisky fresh for months.
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~$12-15
"The biggest improvement to my whisky experience wasn't expensive bottles—it was using the right glass and adding a drop of water. These tools changed everything." - Phil's personal experience
📚 Learning & Reference
Malt Whisky Yearbook 2024
The whisky bible - updated annually
I buy this every year. It's the most comprehensive guide to distilleries, releases, and industry trends. Essential for any serious whisky lover.
Get on Amazon →
~$25-30
Whiskypedia by Charlie MacLean
Encyclopedia of whisky knowledge
Charlie is a legend in the whisky world. This book answers every question you'll ever have about whisky production, regions, and terminology.
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~$20-25
World Atlas of Whisky by Dave Broom
Visual guide to whisky regions worldwide
Beautiful coffee table book that's also incredibly informative. Perfect for understanding how location affects whisky character.
Get on Amazon →
~$30-35
🏠 Storage & Display
Sample Bottles (50ml)
Perfect for sharing and preserving opened bottles
Essential for any whisky collection. I use these for sharing samples with friends and preserving special bottles once they're getting low.
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~$15-20
Cabinet LED Light Strip
Showcase your collection properly
Makes your whisky collection look professional. Easy to install, and the warm light brings out the beautiful colors in the bottles.
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~$25-35
Large Ice Cube Trays
For cocktails and special occasions
When you want to make an Old Fashioned or just prefer your whisky on the rocks, large cubes melt slower and don't dilute as quickly.
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~$15-20
🎥 Content Creation Gear
For those curious about the filming setup behind the videos
Sony Camera & Lens
Main camera for video production
Professional setup for crisp video quality. Only needed if you're serious about content creation.
Audio Equipment
Microphone and recorder for clear sound
Good audio is more important than good video. This setup ensures every tasting note comes through clearly.
Vlogging Microphone
For on-the-go content
Perfect for distillery visits and outdoor content. Clips right onto your shirt and delivers broadcast-quality audio.
Common Questions
Do I really need a special glass?
Yes, absolutely. The shape concentrates aromas and changes the whisky experience dramatically. It's the single most important tool.
What if I'm just starting out?
Start with the glass, water jug, and caps. That's $30-40 total and covers 90% of what you need for proper whisky tasting.
Why these specific products?
I've tested dozens of alternatives over 5+ years. These are the ones that actually work reliably and offer the best value.
Are there budget alternatives?
For most items, no. These are already the budget-friendly options that work well. Cheaper alternatives usually disappoint.
What about fancy crystal glasses?
They're beautiful but don't improve the tasting experience. Save your money for better whisky instead.
Do I need distilled water specifically?
Yes. Tap water has minerals that can interfere with the whisky's flavor. Distilled water is pure and won't change the taste.
💡 Full Transparency
These are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you). However, these are genuinely the exact products I use daily. I only recommend gear I personally own and trust.
Every product listed has been tested in my home setup for months or years. If something breaks or doesn't work as expected, I remove it from this list. Your trust matters more than any commission.
Ready to Upgrade Your Whisky Experience?
Start with the essential tasting kit - just a glass, water jug, and caps. You'll immediately notice the difference in your whisky enjoyment. Then add books and storage as your passion grows.
Questions about any of this gear? Email me: phil [at] firstphilwhisky [dot] com
Happy tasting!
Phil