Introduction
You may not think of whisky as the kind that can be appreciated in a formal setting, but you’d be wrong. From learning about how different types of whiskies are made to tasting them side by side and even pairing them with food, whisky tasting is a great way to learn more about this drink and have fun doing so. You may find yourself surprised at just how much there is to know.
Learn about the history of whisky.
Whisky is technically a type of distilled spirit, defined as any alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The main difference between whisky and other distilled spirits, such as vodka or rum, is that it’s made from fermented grain mash that has been distilled at least twice. This makes whisky smoother than other types of spirits.
Drink a variety of whiskies.
As you taste different types of whisky, you’ll learn to appreciate their differences. For example, Scotch and Irish whiskies are produced using malted barley, which gives them a peaty flavour. Bourbon is distilled from corn mash and typically has a sweeter taste than scotch or Irish whiskies. Rye is generally made from at least 51% rye grain (which makes it spicier than bourbon) and may have been aged in used barrels previously used for bourbon or corn whisky.
An essential part of learning how to pair foods with drinks is familiar with the vital ingredients in many recipes:
- salt/pepper
- butter/olive oil
- herbs/spices
- citrus fruits like lemon juice
- tomatoes such as tomato paste or diced fresh tomato
Learn about tasting notes, such as smoky and sweet
A whisky tasting class will teach you how to identify and describe the flavour notes of whisky. You’ll learn what they are, how they develop during ageing in barrels, and how they can change when the whisky is combined with other ingredients (like water).
Whisky experts often use words like “smoky” or “sweet” to describe flavours found in whiskies. These terms can refer mainly to taste and aroma but also include appearance (i.e., colour). For example, smoky flavours are often associated with whiskies aged in new oak barrels for at least three years (such as Scotch).
Meet new people and form friendships.
A whisky-tasting class is an excellent way to meet new people and form friendships. You will learn a lot from other members of your class who have likely been studying whisky for years or even decades. You may also discover your knack for distilling or blending and develop a new hobby!
Tasting whisky with others who share your passion is always enjoyable. However, there’s something extra special about being able to share the experience in person rather than online or over the phone.
Improve your palate
Whisky-tasting classes are an excellent way to improve your palate and develop a better sense of taste and smell. Taste, smell and touch are all connected, so if you want to get better at one of them, you should also try to improve the others.
Whisky-tasting classes allow participants to practice their senses while drinking spirits in a fun environment! They’re great ways for people who have never been exposed before to learn more about what makes these products so unique before diving deeper into other aspects, such as ageing processes which require extensive knowledge about chemical reactions occurring inside barrels during maturation stages outside warehousing facilities around the world today.
Whisky classes can give you an appreciation
Whisky is a complex drink with many layers of flavour, which can be challenging to identify without guidance. Tasting notes can help you identify the flavours in the whisky, and they can also be helpful if you are trying to learn how to describe them. Whisky-tasting classes can teach you about different types of whisky and their history, providing an opportunity for you to practice your palate.
Conclusion
Whisky-tasting classes can be a great way to learn more about this popular drink and improve your palate. If you’ve never been to one, it is time to try it! If you already like whisky but want to learn more about it, this is another excellent option.