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Becoming a whiskey connoisseur has always been on our to-do list, and with the NYC Whiskey Walk coming up this Saturday, March 7 (buy your tickets here), there’s no better time to make it a reality. For those of us who need a quick crash course in whiskey know-how before this weekend, here are the three most important things you need to remember when doing a taste test.
Photo: Courtesy of theluxuryspot.com.
How To Choose: Whiskey’s intense, delicious flavor primarily comes from the type of cask that it’s aged in. Scotch is typically aged in an oak barrel for about 3 years. The process creates a more versatile drink that can be used in cocktails, mixed drinks or served (hot or cold) alone. Rye, on the other hand, has a little less depth than other whiskeys, meaning that the flavors can sometimes taste a bit flat. Bourbon, on the other hand, is a strictly American whiskey, and tends to be sweeter than the other types.
How To Drink It: Don’t be ashamed to ask for a side of water with your drink (especially as the alcohol percentage climbs)! Add a few drops to your whiskey to take the edge off. Nonetheless, your first sip of whiskey should be without water or ice. This is the best way to experience the robust, and often-nuanced flavors within the drink. For an even better experience, sniff the liquid before you take a sip. The combination of scent and taste will give you a better feeling for its disposition.
What To Look For: Before even tasting a whiskey, looking at its color can give you a clue about its nature. The darker the whiskey, the older it is (although some companies add color to their bottles to give them an aged appearance). Some whiskeys, like Jonnie Walker Black, have a hint of smokiness. Others will have a fruity aftertaste. Make your own decisions before consulting the bartender about it!
– by Nicole Piquant