A little knowledge can go a long way and each little bit of knowledge you learn will help you navigate your way through this rich and diverse world of whiskey. Everything here will help you to lay a solid foundation upon which you can further build your education and experiences.
- Understand how whisky is made and learn how the distiller can influence the flavor of the spirit during the five stages of production (Malting, Mashing, Fermentation, Distillation and Maturation).
- Research the whisky producing regions of Scotland and discover how each region has variations of flavor and style associated with it. Speyside it is for me!
- Don’t forget about Kentucky the bourbon capital along with all the other Bourbon/Rye producers in the US.
- Learn how to taste whiskey. It is the glass, the way you nose it, the way it touches your palates and the finish.
- Try different whiskies and then note down the aromas and flavors. What do they remind you of? Can place it? Use this whiskey wheel to help you out.
- Taste a whisky neat and then add a few drops of water. There is no wrong or right way. It is all down to personal preference.
- Read as much about different distilleries and brands as you can. Visit their websites or the distillery itself, if possible.
- Experiment with different styles and ages of whisky and understand you will not like them all. A bad experience is as valuable as a good one. This will help you discover which style you prefer.
- Learn some whiskey lingo.
- Some of those crazy whiskey abbreviations.
- Have fun! Try and pronounce some of the Scottish Distillery names! Listen to Brian Cox help us out!