How to run your own Scotch whisky tasting

One of the best ways to appreciate the varied character of the fascinating range of Scotch whiskies is to sample them against one another in a ‘comparative tasting’. This highlights both the dramatic and subtle differences and helps you on your journey to discover your prefect dram.

If you are running a tasting remember that there will be varying levels of knowledge and the following pointers should ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.

Select a number of whiskies - four is ideal and will give you the choice and range that will satisfy most palates. Remember there is no need to pour any more than a small sample, half a standard measure is plenty to appreciate the whisky fully.

How to choose your Scotch whiskies

You may wish to choose contrasting whiskies from each of Scotland’s whisky producing regions; Lowlands, Highlands,Speyside, Islay and Campbeltown

You should use a range of different ages to demonstrate the effect of maturation in the oak cask.

There are now many different wood finishes available. Include at least two different woods or barrels that have previously held other spirits or wine, this will broaden the interest.

Many more whiskies are now bottled at cask strength and although they must be watered down for nosing and tasting this gives another interesting angle.

You can produce a tasting mat on which to place the glasses to avoid any confusion. This is especially helpful with larger groups.

Your tasting may be formal; presenting to a group, or very informal with a small party of friends. In either case there is a never ending range of conversations to be had about Scotch whisky. These can range from the regions and surrounding areas to the distilleries, the history of whisky, its place in our culture, the incredible impact overseas, new releases and innovative products and alternative ways to drink Scotch. In almost all cases be prepared for a healthy debate!

There are five key steps to appreciating Scotch Whisky:

Colour

Best viewed held up against a white background – this will allow you to make an educated guess at the type of barrel in which the Whisky has been matured. Light – Bourbon, Dark – Sherry.

BUT it could also give an indication of the age of the whisky. Younger whiskies tend to be lighter with older whiskies being slightly darker.

Body

Swirl the whisky around the glass coating the side of the glass. Watch as the droplets ‘legs’ form. If the legs are thin and run quickly down the side of the glass then the whisky is light bodied. If they are thicker and slower this indicates that the Whisky is full bodied and oilier. If lots of beads form at the top of the glass the Whisky may have a higher alcohol content – cask strength.

REMEMBER, NEVER TRUST YOUR EYES! – You must confirm your assumptions on the nose and palate.

Nose

Whisky nosing should be done by adding water to the product but if you only have a few whiskies then you could nose and taste first before adding water. Remember to keep your mouth open slightly when nosing the whisky and nose it two or three times. Identify as many aromas as possible.

Palate

Identify further aromas and tastes. Consider the mouth feel of the whisky.

Finish

How long after you drink the whisky can you still taste it? Does the taste disappear quickly or are you left with a long lingering finish?

Remember to make the tasting as informal and interactive as possible. This can be tricky with a large group, but will allow you to get the best out of the cumulative knowledge and interest – almost everyone has a story about Scotland or Scotch whisky!

Copy adapted from content supplied by the Scotch Whisky Experience

Scotch Whisky Experience

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