How to do a proper whiskey tasting

Ever wonder why you don’t like whiskey?  It’s probably because you attempt to drink it as quickly as possible.  This causes your eyes to water from the alcohol fumes and gives you a burn in your chest from ingesting the entire pour in 3 seconds.  A proper tasting is key to avoiding this unpleasant feeling and experience all of the delicious sweet, spicy undertones in the whiskey.

Start your tasting by holding the whiskey up to the light to observe the color. Why? It makes you look like you know what you are doing.  Really though, when it comes to bourbon, the darker the color, the higher the alcohol content and the older the bourbon.  Scotch and Irish whiskey can add coloring at the end of the process to simulate this.  Either way, you still look cool.

Breath in, breath out, breath in, breath out,  also known as nosing the whiskey.  I know, it sounds pretentious, but it smells amazing.  The key to nosing the whiskey is to open your mouth and inhale using your mouth and nose.  This prepares your pallet and, most importantly, the alcohol is inhaled by your mouth and prevents it from burning your nose.  It also allows your nose to really smell those smoky, sweet, and/or spicy flavors.  Don’t be afraid to swirl your whiskey around to get all of those good scents.

Finally, it’s time to taste that beautiful amber liquid.  Don’t shoot it! I repeat don’t shoot it!  Not only because it will make me cry but because it tastes better my way.  A proper tasting is three sips.  The first sip will allow the whiskey to cover your tongue, adjusting your taste buds to the alcohol.  You should slightly exhale after the first sip, allowing you to taste some of the smoky flavor.  The second taste allows you to get more of the flavors of the whiskey.  Most may notice a slight heat in their chest after this sip.  Some folks call this a “Kentucky hug”.  Adding a few drops of water will enhance the underlying flavors.  The third taste gives you the true flavors and under tones of the whiskey.  If you would like to pair your whiskey with nuts, chocolate, or other food, it is best to do this between your second and third sips.

The most important part of a proper tasting is to enjoy the whiskey.  Appreciate the flavors, exchange some dirty jokes, and have a great time!

My Washington sister (Macallan 12 year, Glenmorangie 10 year, Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban )