Bourbon tasting, whether at a distillery, your favorite bar, or at home, is always guaranteed to be a good time had by all. Whether you’re a bourbon whiskey aficionado or preparing for your first flight, this guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and essentials you need to fully appreciate the next time you have a few pours in front of you.

Understanding the Basics Bourbon vs. Whiskey

Before embarking on the bourbon-tasting journey, it’s essential to understand what sets bourbon apart from other types of whiskey. Both bourbon and whiskey are distilled spirits made from fermented grain mash, but the specifics can vary significantly.

Key Differences between bourbon and whiskey

• Ingredients: Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, while whiskey can be made from various amounts of grains, such as barley, rye, and wheat.
• Aging: Bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels, whereas whiskey can be aged in new or used barrels.
• Location: While all bourbon is whiskey, not all whiskey is bourbon. Bourbon must be produced in the United States.

Understanding Sight, Smell, and Taste

Tasting bourbon involves more than just sipping it. It’s an immersive experience that engages your senses. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering the art of bourbon tasting.

Sight

Start by observing the color of the bourbon. Pour a small amount into a glass and hold it up to the light. The hue can range from pale gold to deep amber, often indicating the age and type of barrel used for aging.

Smell

Next, bring the glass to your nose and take a moment to inhale the aroma. Try to identify different scents, such as vanilla, caramel, oak, or even fruit. This step is crucial as smell constitutes a significant part of the tasting experience.
To sniff correctly, only use one nostril. Don’t be afraid to put your nose inside the rim of the glass and try to take a deep inhale. If you don’t smell anything right away, try a few more times. Even if you can only identify one or two smells, that could heighten your experience when you taste the bourbon.

Taste

Finally, take a small sip and allow the bourbon to coat your palate. Swish the bourbon around in your mouth. This is called the “chew.” It is a crucial step to enjoying your whiskey. Depending on its proof, it may burn, but that’s just the whiskey shocking your senses. Your next few sips will allow more of the flavor profile to come through.
Take note of the initial flavors. Once you’re ready, take another sip. Again, let it coat your palate and tongue. You should start to recognize different elements like sweetness, bitterness, spiciness, and specific notes.
Common flavors found in bourbon include:

• Brown sugar
• Chocolate
• Oak
• Leather
• Vanilla
• Stone fruits
• Molasses
• Honey
• and more

When trying to discern flavors, there are no wrong answers. Whatever it tastes to you is what it tastes like, and as you try more whiskey, more flavor notes will become noticeable.

The Importance of Glassware

Believe it or not, the glass you use can significantly impact your bourbon-tasting experience. Proper glassware enhances the aroma and flavor, making your tasting session more enjoyable and effective.

Types of Glasses

• Glencairn Glass: Widely regarded as the best choice for whiskey tasting, its tulip shape concentrates the aromas.
• Rocks Glass: Ideal for those who prefer their bourbon on the rocks, though it may not concentrate the aromas as effectively.
• Copita Glass: Similar to the Glencairn, it’s often used in professional tastings to enhance the nose of the spirit.

How to Choose

Select a glass that complements your tasting style. If you’re focusing on aromas, a Glencairn glass is advisable. For casual sipping, a rocks glass works well.

Developing a Palate

Building a refined palate takes time and practice. Understanding tasting notes and flavors will help you appreciate the complexities of bourbon.

Common Tasting Notes in Whiskey

• Sweet: Caramel, vanilla, honey
• Spicy: Cinnamon, black pepper, cloves
• Fruity: Apple, cherry, citrus
• Nutty: Almond, pecan, walnut

Practice Makes Perfect

Start by sampling a variety of bourbons to familiarize yourself with different profiles. Take notes on what you taste and smell to develop your sensory vocabulary.

Tools for Tasting

Consider keeping a tasting journal to record your observations. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and preferences, helping you make more informed choices.

Pairing Bourbon with Food

Food pairing can elevate your bourbon-tasting experience. The right combination can accentuate flavors and create a harmonious balance.

Basic Pairing Principles

• Complementary Flavors: Match similar flavors to enhance the experience—for instance, a vanilla note in bourbon pairs well with vanilla-infused desserts.
• Contrasting Flavors: Opposites attract in some cases. A spicy bourbon can be balanced with a sweet dish.
• Intensity Matching: Ensure the food and bourbon have similar intensities to avoid one overpowering the other.

Popular Pairings

• Cheese: Sharp cheddar or blue cheese
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate with high cocoa content
• Meats: Grilled steak or smoked pork

Hosting a Pairing Event

When hosting a bourbon and food pairing event, plan a menu that complements the bourbons you’ll be serving. Offer palate cleansers like water or bread between pairings to reset the taste buds.

Tips for Hosting Your Bourbon Tasting Party

Hosting a bourbon-tasting party can be an enjoyable way to share your passion with friends and family. Here are some tips to make your event a success.

Planning the Event

• Guest List: Keep it small to ensure everyone can participate in discussions.
• Bourbon Selection: Choose a variety of bourbons with different flavor profiles.
• Glassware: Ensure you have enough proper glasses for each guest.

Setting the Scene

Create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Use dim lighting, soft music, and elegant decor to set the mood. Provide water and light snacks to cleanse the palate between tastings.

Conducting the Tasting

Start with a brief introduction to bourbon-tasting techniques. Encourage guests to take their time and share their observations. Use tasting mats to organize the bourbons and provide space for note-taking.

Conclusion and Invitation to Explore More Bourbon

Bourbon tasting is a rewarding and enriching experience beyond merely sipping a delicious drink. It’s an exploration of history, flavor, and community. By understanding the basics, developing your palate, and engaging with fellow enthusiasts, you can deepen your appreciation for this remarkable spirit.
The next time you’re in Kentucky, stop by Lux Row Distillers to enjoy a bourbon tasting. You can stop in just for the tasting or you can enjoy it after taking a tour and learning more about Kentucky bourbon history.