One of the things I try to hit hard while leading whiskey tastings is that there is no wrong way to take your whiskey. Whether you like it neat (with nothing added and at room temperature), with a few drops of water, or on the rocks, it’s all good. If you like whiskey only in cocktails or mixed with a particular cola, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it.
Really. I mean it. I wouldn’t lie about such things. The point is to enjoy your whiskey, and that means something a little different to everyone.
People ask me, “well Diana, how do you take your whiskey?” And in all honesty, it depends on a few things. I enjoy many whiskeys neat, as I appreciate many whiskeys with a few drops of water, especially if they are higher proof, and in the summer, I prefer the refreshment of adding a bit of ice to cool everything down on a hot day.
When I am trying a new whiskey, I do nose and taste it first neat, and if I think it might benefit from a couple of drops of water or something else, I go from there. In many cases, it is great as is, but with so many different varieties of whiskeys, it doesn’t hurt to play around a little bit either. I have been surprised in many cases how a couple of drops of water or some ice can open or soften some great flavors, and that is what it is designed to do.
Very frequently at tastings, when I offer some water or ice to participants, someone makes a comment about not wanting it or needing it because they aren’t a wimp, or they give someone a hard time because they do take it. I want to say once and for all, that there is nothing wimpy about taking a few drops of water or ice, and I would never imply such a thing. Rather, I am offering you a chance to experience the whiskey and its flavors in a new light, which may help you to discover something new. To me, that is the opposite of wimpy and shows your openness to expand your palate and knowledge of whiskey.
Yes, the water or ice can cut the proof a whiskey down to take some of the burn off from the alcohol, but that just opens the deep flavors of the whiskey and allows them to come through. Some may say that ice numbs the taste buds, but that might be the very effect that helps some people not be overwhelmed by all that is happening between their senses of smell and taste. Room temperature water just takes a bit of the alcohol off, without the numbing of cold temperature. Once you better know the effect these different elements take, the more you can adjust as needed.
Overall, really tasting and experiencing whiskey involves patience, practice, and play. Tasting different flavor notes takes some time and experience. Most people don’t taste everything on the first sip and the experiences can build. Tasting a variety of whiskeys allows for comparison—which is exactly what we do with Belle of the Barrel, as you are guided through your flight. Play means not being afraid to try a few drops of water to see what it does, or to enjoy your whiskey in a different form. Would it be good with some ice or maybe in your favorite cocktail, or is it just amazing on its own? That’s all for you to decide.
Tips for Experiencing Whiskey
- Follow your nose: Make sure you are nosing your whiskey or taking a nice whiff without sticking your nose directly into the glass. Give it a swirl and hold it at a distance and see what aromas you get.
- Having a hard time with getting those aromas because it is burning? The swirling may help, but also blowing on the top of the glass may push off some of those strong alcohol vapors, clearing the way. Swirling and nosing will also change if you do decide you want to add a few drops of water.
- Take your time and try not to rush. If you need to swirl and nose a few times, do it. This isn’t a speed sport
- Realize that sips of whiskey will build on your palate, so you may not get everything on the first try. Often the flavors really come through between sips 3-5, so be patient.
- Cleanse your palate as needed, especially if you are tasting a flight or multiple whiskeys. Just as flavors build, they can linger on the palate, which will affect the taste of your next pour. Drink some water and eat some crackers for a blank canvas, and again, take your time.
- Recognize when your senses of taste and smell may be a little bit off. Have you had a cold recently or do you suffer from seasonal allergies leaving you congested for a few days? Have you started a new medication? Have you had a meal with a lot of garlic or onions over the last 72 hours? All these things and more can make even your most favorite pours of whiskeys taste a little bit off. And always make sure you are using a clean glass with any dish soap thoroughly rinsed out.
What do you want to dream up for your own whiskey tasting experience? Contact us today to get started!
