Bells Whiskyjug 1 Waterjug

One of these stood on every bar counter in Britain once. The jug was the pub advertising space long before anyone called it branding, and it got filled with cold water every morning as the door was unlocked.

Please note: This is a used vintage jug, so it may show wear from its years in service. Every example is its own.

The expert's description

Bell's Water Jug 1 is a vintage water jug in Bell's livery, made for use behind the bar.

Water jugs like this were produced by the whisky houses and supplied free to pubs and hotels. In return the brand name sat on the table in front of the guest all evening, and the arrangement ran for decades across Britain and Ireland.

This jug has been in service, and it shows. Marks of that kind are part of the object rather than a fault in it, and they are why collectors separate working pieces from shelf pieces.

Specifications

Name: Bell's Water Jug 1
Distillery: Bell's
Region/Country: Scotland
Type: Water jug
Edition: Vintage

Did you know?

Bell's used the bell as a logo as far back as the 1800s, since the name means bell in English. The same motif turned up on jugs, ashtrays, trays and everything else the house could get into a pub.

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Frequently asked questions about Bell's water jug 1

What is a whisky jug for?

For adding a small amount of water to whisky. The jug has a narrow spout so you can dose a few drops at a time rather than drowning the dram. It is meant for the table, not for storage.

Why add water to whisky?

Because water opens the aromatics. Alcohol binds some of the volatile compounds, and a couple of drops releases them so you can smell more. It matters especially above 46 %, where the difference is clear.

Can you drink from the jug?

It is made for pouring water, not for drinking. If the whisky is to be served properly it belongs in a whisky glass, with the jug standing alongside.

What separates a whisky jug from a decanter?

The jug holds water and has a spout. A whisky decanter holds the whisky itself and usually has a stopper. The two are used together, but each has its own job on the table.

Is wear a problem?

No, it comes with the territory. A vintage jug has stood on a bar counter for many years, and the marks of that are part of the history of the object. If you want something flawless, look for a newly made jug.

Does it work as a gift?

For whisky people with a feel for the historical, yes. It is usable, it takes little space and it says something other than yet another bottle. Pair it with a dram from the same house if you like.