16 Best Whiskey Chilling Stones For Cold But Undiluted Drinks: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Whiskey on the rocks is a common way to enjoy the liquor. But if you’re a slow sipper, your whiskey may end up too watered down because of the ice melting, causing it to lose flavor. To counter this problem, whiskey stones were created.
Although not everyone accepts these stones due to their impact on the whiskey’s taste, it’s up to you to try and see for yourself if they benefit you. Besides, people have different preferences; some may like cold but undiluted whiskeys, making chilling stones perfect for them.
If you want to try this method of enjoying your next glass of whiskey, check out the best whiskey chilling stones and pick the perfect one for you!
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Quiseen Beverage Chilling Stones
Why We Think It’s Great
- NATURAL SOAPSTONE: Its relative softness won't damage or shatter your glass.
- SANITARY: Since it is made of a non-porous material, no flavors or odors will be absorbed.
- EASY TO STORE: Comes with a handy velvet pouch that makes the stones easy to keep and transport.
- GIFTABLE: Contained in a neat, secure box.
What We Don’t Like
- The stones are smaller than expected.
What Our Editors Say
“This set of nine chilling stones will satisfy all your whiskey-cooling needs. We appreciate that they’re made from natural soapstone, which is naturally impermeable and stain-resistant. This means that they won't transfer any unpleasant flavors to your whiskey.
Although they’re quite small, they do a great job of maintaining a chilly temperature. You can always use more stones in a glass if you want your drink colder. And thanks to the pouch, you can have a cold drink no matter where you are.”
Material: Soapstone | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Tongs, velvet bag
Related: The Best ice Tongs
2. Runner-Up: Rabbit Whiskey and Beverage Jumbo Chilling Stones Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- COMPACT: Includes a convenient and sturdy container to store the stones.
- EASY TO CLEAN: May be cleaned and reused with ease since they’re dishwasher safe.
- LARGE SIZE: Designed to be like a big ice cube, perfect for one serving.
- ODORLESS: Doesn’t get tainted with smells thanks to the stainless steel material.
What We Don’t Like
- It is a bit heavy, which can be a hassle when drinking.
What Our Experts Say
“I've tried multiple whiskey chilling stones already, and what caught me off-guard with the Rabbit jumbo stones was how durable, and capable one piece of stone is,” says Jodi Pemberton, head chef and founder of Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice.”
“Usually, since most stones come in pairs, two are needed to chill one glass, but this is truly an exception. This may be a little pricey, but it is definitely worth it,” she adds.
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 1.5” x 1.5” | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Storage case
Related: The Best Whiskey Glasses
3. Best for Diamond Glasses: Dragon Glassware Reusable Ice Cubes
Why We Think It’s Great
- GEM-SHAPED: Unique diamond-shaped design that looks luxurious and eye-catching.
- PROFESSIONAL-GRADE: Made with high-quality, sturdy, and food-safe stainless steel.
- FREEZES FAST: Contains water inside, which means it freezes relatively faster and stays cold longer.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Can be cleaned and dried by hand or through the dishwasher.
What We Don’t Like
- They don’t stay cold for long.
What Buyers Say
“These stones are so stunning because of their one-of-a-kind diamond structure, making them the ideal match for a diamond decanter and glasses set. Thanks to their attractive and minimalist box packaging, they’re also perfect for any gift-giving occasion.
These are well-made and will hold up to repeated uses. Since they're made of metal, be careful when putting them in whiskey glasses; drop them gently to avoid breaking the glass.
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 1.6” | What’s Included: Chilling stones only
Related: The Best Whiskey Decanters
4. Best Stainless Steel: Kollea Whiskey Stones Gifts Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- FOOD-GRADE CONSTRUCTION: Manufactured from FDA-approved stainless steel.
- EASY TO CLEAN: You may throw them in the dishwasher or manually wash and dry them.
- QUICK CHILLING: With 2-3 cubes, you can chill your drink in just 45 seconds.
- ENSURES SATISFACTION: The customers are protected by a 45-day money-back guarantee and a 24-month warranty.
What We Don’t Like
- They’re prone to scratches.
What Buyers Say
“You can get these interesting cubes in a compact plastic container with a lid and a little set of tongs for picking them up from the tray. They serve the same purpose as regular ice cubes, and they work in any drink other than whiskey.
These whiskey stones are gorgeous in their sheen and smoothness, and they'd look fantastic in fine crystal glass. It's also great that you can reuse them, and there will be no need to refill the ice cube tray constantly.”
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 1” | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Chilling stones, ice tongs, and box
Related: The Best Ice Trays
5. Best for Golf Fans: Gemsho Glass Golf Ball Whiskey Chillers
Why We Think It’s Great
- IDEAL FOR SPORTS LOVERS: Displays a cool golf ball design.
- STURDY FEEL: Made of great quality, heavy glass which is non-toxic and sturdy.
- EASY STORAGE: Comes in a drawstring velvet pouch for quick storage.
- GREAT GIFT: Pair these with a loved one’s favorite Scotch or bourbon to make an awesome gift set.
What We Don’t Like
- They are pricey.
What Buyers Say
“These whiskey chillers were fun to use as a golfer since they do resemble a golf ball. Also, they are big but not overly huge, the perfect size for a short, traditional whiskey glass.
These were simple to clean - just run them through the dishwasher or wash them by hand in warm water and mild soap. We also appreciate the velvet carrying pouch bag that comes with it, so we don’t lose or misplace them.
Material: Glass | What’s Included: Velvet pouch
Related: Scotch Vs. Whiskey Vs. Bourbon
6. Best Set: AMERIGO MAKE IT SPECIAL Whiskey Chilling Stones Gift Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- SOPHISTICATED LOOK: Constructed from well-polished stainless steel with curved edges.
- COMES WITH ACCESSORIES: Includes two coasters, a freezer tray, and useful ice tongs.
- FREE EBOOK: Packaged with a free ebook all about the art of whiskey, perfect for whiskey lovers.
- PRESENTABLE PACKAGING: All the tools are kept in a neat and compact box.
What We Don’t Like
- They are hollow.
What Our Editors Say
“With the right amount of freezing time, these stones can attain an optimal temperature for whiskey. We recommend putting three to four stainless steel whiskey stones in a glass to make the drink cold.
We also love the accessories because they make the stones easier to take anywhere, and they complete the whiskey drinking experience. And you don't have to bother with wrapping paper because the box is so well made that it presents so nicely on its own.”
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 1” x 1” | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Coasters, freezer tray, ice tongs
Related: The Best Drink Coasters
7. Best Classic: Teroforma Original Whisky Stones
Why We Think It’s Great
- ORIGINAL WHISKEY STONE: Made by Andrew Hellman in 2007, who modeled the stones after a Scandinavian tradition of cooling liquids with cold stones.
- SUSTAINABLY MADE: Handcrafted from natural soapstone and milled in a closed-loop process in Vermont’s oldest soapstone mill.
- USER-FRIENDLY: Freeze for 3-4 hours, then place 3 stones in a glass of 2-oz. liquor for 5 minutes.
What We Don’t Like
- They leave a chalky residue.
What Our Experts Say
“The best whiskey stones we recommend is the Teroforma Classic Whisky Stones. These stones are made from pure soapstone, which is non-porous, so it won't absorb flavors or odors,” comments Chris Walster, whiskey connoisseur from The Cask Connoisseur.
“The stones also provide a natural chill to your whiskey without diluting it, so you can enjoy your favorite whiskey without alteration. Plus, the stones come in a stylish carrying bag, making them a great gift for any whiskey drinker,” he adds.
Material: Soapstone | Size: 1” | Manufactured: USA | What’s Included: Muslin bag
Related: The Best Alcohol-Free Whiskeys
8. Best Colors: BROTEC Whiskey Stones Gift Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- VARIETY OF DESIGNS: Features six distinctive, colored whiskey stones.
- DISPLAY TRAY: The wooden tray can be used to store and display your stones.
- HIGH QUALITY: Built from durable, long-lasting, and sustainable granite stone.
- 2 WHISKEY COASTERS: Made from water-resistant, lightweight, and non-slip silicone.
What We Don’t Like
- They quickly warm up.
What Our Editors Say
“These stones are a work of beauty since they have been meticulously crafted to maintain their frosty state. Because of the gentle, rounded edges and the smooth surface, there is no danger to either your hands or your whiskey glass.
These stones swiftly freeze, making them ideal for cooling beverages in a hurry. However, you need more stones in a single glass if the serving is more than usual. We also adore the included tray, which is made of highly sturdy wood with a wonderful finish to add to its appeal. ”
Material: Granite | Size: 1.3” | What’s Included: Coasters, wooden tray
Related: The Best Whiskey Brands Inspired By Celebrities
9. Best Large: ISTRAW Giant Whiskey Balls Drink Chiller
Why We Think It’s Great
- SMOOTH SURFACE: The sphere shape prevents scratches on the glass.
- QUICK STORAGE: Contained in a handy case for safe and organized storage.
- LARGE-SIZED: Measures 2.2 inches, so you’ll only need one per glass or drink.
What We Don’t Like
- They’re not as heavy as expected.
What Our Editors Say
“Because these whiskey stones, or balls, are relatively bigger, they chill your whiskey faster and better. However, a whiskey stone this big requires longer freezing time, about 6 or more hours.
Nevertheless, we like how sleek these whiskey stones look, and they make your drink more sophisticated. Their sleek, smooth finishes make them a breeze to clean in a sink with warm water and some gentle detergent.”
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 2.2” | What’s Included: Storage case, gift box
Related: The Best Whiskey Tasting And Nosing Glasses
10. Most Unique: Cocktail Critters Scotch Ness Critter Chilling Stone
Why We Think It’s Great
- FOOD-GRADE: Made out of high-quality BPA-free stainless steel and silicone.
- SUCTION FEATURE: Keeps it submerged for even cooling and from moving around in the glass.
- EYE-CATCHING DESIGN: Its impressive design is the famous mythical creature - the Loch Ness monster.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Cleaning up is a breeze as these are tough enough to withstand a dishwasher cycle.
What We Don’t Like
- They’re kind of hard to remove from the glass.
What Our Editors Say
“The Scotch Ness Monster chilling stone is the perfect accessory with a clever pun for a name that adds a touch of fun to your Scotch or other whiskey types. Despite looking like a novelty item, we’re pleased they serve their purpose well.
They’re durable and quick to cool since they’re made of stainless steel. We also find the suction cup at the bottom nice and clever since stainless steel whiskey stones tend to move around in the glass and may cause chipping.”
Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Size: 1.96” x 2.55” | What’s Included: Chilling stones only
Related: The Best Gifts for Scotch Lovers
11. Best Assorted Shapes: Lichtung Beverage Chilling Stones
Why We Think It’s Great
- NICE AESTHETIC: 9 high-quality whiskey stones in 4 designs and colors.
- REUSABLE: Can be easily washed with water allowing you to reuse it as many times as you want.
- MADE OF GRANITE: Strong and safe material with no BPA or lead.
- FREE TONGS: Use the ice tongs for a simple and clean way to grab those stone ice cubes.
What We Don’t Like
- The container is flimsy.
What Our Editors Say
“This package includes 9 top-notch whiskey stones and practical accessories like ice tongs, a wine stopper, and a velvet purse. And all of these accessories are just as high quality as the stones.
These best whiskey rocks are constructed of lead-free and BPA-free granite, a type of natural stone that can chill whiskey or wine without changing its flavor or scent. We also love the variety of designs the whiskey rocks have, and all have smooth edges to protect your glasses.”
Material: Granite | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Ice tongs, wine stopper, velvet pouch, case
Related: The Best Wine Stoppers
12. Best Value: Mixology & Craft Whiskey Stones
Why We Think It’s Great
- WOODEN TRAY: Includes a compact, narrow tray that neatly holds the stones when not in use.
- MACHINE-POLISHED: No sharp edges, so you won’t scratch your glass.
- ELEGANT DESIGN: The black color and smoothed surface of the whiskey stones give a visually appealing finish.
What We Don’t Like
- They don’t stay cold long enough.
What Buyers Say
“We appreciate the amazing packaging as it made it easy for us to combine it with other gifts. We wanted smooth, flawless stones, and that is exactly what we got. However, you might want to be cautious while placing these stones in your glass because they feel solid and heavy.
Also, it includes a wooden tray with a vintage aesthetic that can hold the chilled stones together for decoration. We also like that the tray can serve as a container for the cooling rocks when they are placed in the freezer.”
Material: Granite | Size: 0.7" x 0.7" | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Wooden tray
Related: The Best Bourbons for Beginners
13. Coolest Design: AMERIGO MAKE IT SPECIAL Whiskey Stones Bullets with Base
Why We Think It’s Great
- PERFECT FOR GUN ENTHUSIASTS: Has a one-of-a-kind bullet design that looks and feels realistic.
- UNIQUE BASE DESIGN: Revolver chamber tray to emphasize the gun theme.
- STAINLESS STEEL: Solid, sturdy, and corrosion-resistant material, making it perfect for the job.
- FREE EBOOK: Entitled "Art of Whiskey," which will help you get to know more about whiskey.
What We Don’t Like
- The base doesn’t feel that durable.
What Buyers Say
“The whiskey stones were packaged in a cute tiny velvet bag inside of a small white box. They also came with a plastic base that looked like the chamber of a pistol, making the whole whiskey stone set look unique.
These perform fantastically well and are ideal if you're drinking with just a few friends. We like how the gold branding on the white packaging box added a sophisticated touch. Overall, this is an excellent giftable product, and we highly recommend it.”
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 2.25” | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Base, velvet bag, ebook
Related: Classy Scotch Whisky Gift Sets
14. Most Beautiful: Cherry Tree Collection Whisky Stones
Why We Think It’s Great
- NATURALLY MADE: The gemstones are carefully cut and polished and are free from resins or dyes that taint the whiskey.
- VERSATILE: Aside from cooling liquor, they can also be used to make crystal-infused water.
- ATTRACTIVE: The rose quartz boasts a light pink hue with a marbling effect.
- ORGANIZED: The stones and bag are neatly stored in a wooden box.
What We Don’t Like
- They don’t stay cold for long.
What Our Experts Say
FOOD LA LA creator Lindsay Kinder comments, “Traditionally, whiskey is thought of as the spirit of the 'boys club,' but at FOOD LA LA, we love to add a feminine and romantic touch to all, and we certainly believe that all spirits should be enjoyed by everybody.
So our favorite whiskey stones are these rose quartz cubes because they soften the typical whiskey sip!”
Material: Rose quartz | What’s Included: Pouch, wooden box
15. Smoothest Surface: Aberdeen Oak Whiskey Stones Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- ELEGANT PACKAGING: Packaged in a collector's box, making them suitable for giving as a present on any occasion.
- ODORLESS: Built with premium stainless steel that won't alter the flavor or smell of your whiskey.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Just give them a warm soapy water wash and thorough rinsing.
- GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE: Customers have the benefit of an unconditional satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty.
What We Don’t Like
- They can develop rust.
What Buyers Say
“We were surprised to see that these were bigger than we imagined, but they still fit in most standard glasses. The package came with a cocktail recipe book and an assurance that if anything breaks, they'll have it replaced.
However, we can't think of a situation in which the steel balls would break, given how well-made they appear to be. They also stay cold for a long time, given that they’re filled with liquid. And thanks to the spherical shape, we won’t have to worry about messing up our glasses.”
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 1.25” | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Ice tongs, velvet pouch, cocktail recipe book, gift box
Related: The Top Whiskey Brands
16. Best Theme: RICH PIRATES Gold Whiskey Coin and Cube Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- INTERESTING DESIGN: Sports a pirate theme with coin-shaped whiskey stones and a chest container.
- FAST COOLING: A special coolant inside fully chills the whiskey stones within an hour.
- FOOD SAFE: Made from food-grade, non-porous 304 stainless steel with smooth edges.
What We Don’t Like
- They impart a slightly metallic taste sometimes.
What Our Editors Say
“If you're searching for bar essentials with a theme, then you're in for a treat with these whiskey stones. Inside the wooden treasure chest are four whiskey stones - 2 are designed like a treasure coin, and the rest are regular cubes.
We are impressed at the intricate details of the chest and coins, making them perfect for pirate fans. Function-wise, the stones perform well as they have a special substance inside to make them cool faster.”
Material: Stainless steel | Size: 2.2” | What’s Included: Wooden chest
Related: The Best Gifts For Nerds
Final Verdict
If you have doubts about whiskey stones, the best way to know if they work for you is to give them a try. You can start with our top pick, the Quiseen Beverage Chilling Stones, which are made of soapstone, easy to maintain, and have great value.
Are you ready to try the best whiskey stones? We’re interested to know your thoughts, so leave your comments below!
Best Whiskey Chilling Stones Buying Guide
Since there are many brands and models of these little innovative whiskey rocks on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is the best for your needs.
To help you in your quest to find your new chilling stone gift set, we’ll tackle the most common attributes that you should look for.
-
Material
According to Chris Walster, “The type of stone is important to consider as some stones may affect the taste of your whiskey, while others may not.”
Nowadays, whiskey chilling stones are primarily made of natural, food-grade materials that easily absorb a cold temperature, such as soapstone, stainless steel, glass, granite, and even gemstones.
Stainless steel whiskey stones are a common choice because of their durable build and easy-to-clean surface. They also lower the liquor’s temperature faster than other materials, especially if they are filled with a cooling gel inside.
Soapstone whiskey stone is another popular choice since they are non-porous, meaning it won’t absorb any odors or flavors from the drink. This ensures that no matter what type of liquor you want to cool, the flavors from previous drinks won’t be mixed into the current one.
However, soapstone whiskey stones don’t stay cold for long since it only maintains a drink’s temperature for a time.
On the other hand, natural granite and gemstones look attractive when used in alcoholic beverages, and they also retain temperatures well. But there’s a chance that they chip off.
Glass stones have a transparent appearance that makes them look like ice. But they are said to cool drinks only to an extent as it loses their coldness a little bit quicker than the others.
-
Look and Finish
Most whiskey stones are small cubes but you can also find them in spheres, big cubes, and diamonds. If you want a more creative look, you can find funny and interesting pieces such as golf balls, Loch Ness monsters, bullets, coins, etc.
For the finish, it is common for these rocks to have smooth edges and sides for easy cleaning and to prevent scratching glasses. And the colors will depend on the material, but those made from stainless steel can sport a gold color.
-
Size
The bigger the chilling stone, the faster the cooling process. However, larger rocks also occupy most of the space inside your glass, so you can make fewer drinks.
On the other hand, smaller rocks can accommodate more drinks inside a glass but won’t hold coldness for long compared to bigger stones.
-
Price
Whiskey stones are commonly sold as a gift set with accessories and a container box or carrying bag, sold at $10-$30. If you are on a budget, you can opt for those that don’t have accessories as they come cheaper.
But if you can splurge, look for those complete sets with assorted bar tools, like ice tongs and coasters, or those made from premium materials.
Best Whiskey Chilling Stones FAQ
1. How do whiskey stones work?
Whiskey stones have a straightforward function. Leave them in the freezer for at least three to four hours to be ready to use as an ice substitute whenever you want to cool down your drink. Once submerged, they will absorb the heat from the liquor and cool it at a consistent temperature until it becomes warm again.
2. How long do whiskey stones stay cold?
Most whiskey stones stay cold for 15-30 minutes. Its best temperature cooling occurs within 10 minutes after putting the rocks into the drink. Adding more chilling stones can make the drink chilled faster.
3. Why are hard drinks like whiskey and bourbon not kept in the fridge?
If you know someone who loves whiskey, notice that these bottled alcohols are kept at room temperature. This is mainly because cold temperatures inside the refrigerator can ruin the authentic alcohol flavor and can compromise the drink's clarity.
Plus, the whiskey’s high alcohol and sugar content are concentrated enough to preserve the drinks for extended periods.
The ideal storage temperature range for whiskeys and bourbons is 60℉ to 65℉ (15℃ to 18℃).
4. How to clean whiskey stones?
Some whiskey stones are dishwasher safe, and some are to be strictly hand-washed. If your whiskey stones are dishwasher safe, just place them in your dishwasher like how you normally do. Otherwise, wash your stones using running warm water.
You can also lather a few drops of dish soap to thoroughly clean the stones, then completely rinse them. Finally, air dry them or blot them dry with some clean paper or a dish towel to remove any excess moisture.
5. How many whiskey stones do I need for one drink?
Normally, you’ll need three small cube-shaped stones in a drink, but the number can always change depending on the stone’s size and volume of liquor. If a stone is large, you’ll only need one for each glass.
Why Trust Advanced Mixology?
We believe that our readers should have access to unbiased, well-informed reviews when deciding which products to buy, and we work hard to provide that type of content. Our editorial team is experienced and passionate about mixology and bar equipment. In addition, we often consult with industry professionals when gathering information, which gives us an insider's perspective on the products we're reviewing.
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