Want to know more about tasting Whiskey?
Whiskey, Bourbon, Scotch - What's the difference?
In essence, whiskey is an alcohol distilled from fermented grain mash; therefore, bourbon, made from corn, and Scotch, made from malted barley, are both whiskeys. There is also Irish Whiskey, Canadian Whiskey, and Japanese Whiskey. Whiskey is now being distilled in India, Taiwan, Finland, and Australia.
Learn to discern Whiskey like a Professional
Tasting is different than drinking.
Tasting involves the painstaking analysis of the aromas, flavors and texture of a whiskey.
It takes time to taste the balance, complexity and character.
Appearance
What does the color of the whiskey look like? Gold like straw? Copper like an old penny? Amber like sunsets last rays? Whirl the whiskey around. How does the whiskey "climb" the glass? How viscous is it?
Nose
Your sense of smell will reveal more about the whiskey than your taste buds. Smells are often linked to memories, which can help you understand what you are smelling. Oak, leather, vanilla, florals, citrus, or smoke are just a few aromas that you might smell.
Palate
Time to taste. How does the whiskey feel in your mouth? The mouthfeel plays an important part in the overall experience. Hold the whiskey on your tongue, roll it around in your mouth, taste how the flavor changes. Swallow and appreciate the finish.
Water
There are certain flavors that are soluable in alcohol but not in water. A few drops of water changes the alcohol concentration so more flavors can now be distinguished on your palate.
So you think you wouldn't like whiskey?
If you drink any kind of beer or wine then there is a whiskey that you would enjoy.
Different whiskeys have different flavors, just like beer and wine. If you prefer your beer to be earthy, perhaps you would like a peated scotch. If you like sweet, light white wine, then you might like a highland scotch or bourbon. If you enjoy fell bodied red wine you might like a sherry cask finished bourbon or scotch.
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Your taste buds will thank you.
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Tasting is a truly Sensory Experience
Tasting involves your eyes, nose, mouth, ears and touch.
Tasting is also influenced by the place where you taste. Is it noisy or quiet. Is it a large room or an intimate setting. Is there a smell of perfume or cologne that might interfere with your nose. As you look at the whiskey, is the light daylight or florescent. Are your taste buds ready for this experience? Have you eaten or smoked before the tasting.
Everything about your surroundings can enhance or detract from your experience.
Professional Credentials
