What Does Two Fingers of Whiskey Mean?

Two Fingers of Whiskey: A Measure of the Past

Two Fingers of Whiskey: A Measure of the Past

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Two Fingers of Whiskey: A Measure of the PastIn the world of whiskey, there's a certain charm to ordering "two fingers." It evokes images of old saloons, cowboys, and a time when drinks were measured not by ounces, but by the bartender's digits. But what exactly does "two fingers" mean, and is it still a relevant term today?  


A Historical Measure:

The practice of measuring liquor with fingers dates back to the American Old West. In those days, bartenders would literally use their fingers to gauge the amount of whiskey poured into a glass. "Two fingers" meant the whiskey would fill the glass to the height of two of the bartender's fingers placed horizontally against the side of the glass.  

An Imprecise Pour:

Of course, this method was inherently imprecise. Bartenders' fingers varied in size, leading to inconsistent pours. As standardized measurements became more prevalent, the "two fingers" method gradually faded from common practice. 

A Nostalgic Order:

Today, ordering "two fingers" of whiskey is more of a nostalgic gesture than a precise measurement. Most bartenders will interpret it as a request for a standard pour, typically 1.5 to 2 ounces. However, some establishments, especially those with a historical theme, may still use the "two fingers" method as a nod to the past.

How to Order Two Fingers:

If you're feeling adventurous and want to try ordering "two fingers" of whiskey, here's how:



  1. Choose your whiskey: Specify the type of whiskey you'd like (e.g., "two fingers of rye whiskey").
  2. Specify "neat": This indicates that you want your whiskey served straight, without ice or mixers.  
  3. Be prepared for variations: The amount you receive may vary depending on the bartender and the establishment.

A Nod to Tradition:

WhiskeyWhile "two fingers" may no longer be a standard measurement, it remains a charming and evocative way to order whiskey. It's a nod to the history of the spirit and a reminder of a time when things were a bit simpler, even if the pours were a bit less precise.



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