How to choose the perfect whisky for you?

Whisky is a beloved spirit that has been enjoyed around the world for centuries. From its production process to its many different varieties, whisky has a rich and complex history that makes it a fascinating topic to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced whisky drinker, there are always new whiskies to discover and enjoy. Whether you prefer a smooth and easy-to-drink whisky or a complex and challenging one, there is a whisky out there for everyone to love. So, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of whisky.

How whisky is made?

Whisky, also spelled whiskey, is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is made from grains. The exact process for making whisky can vary depending on the type of whisky and the distillery producing it, but generally, the process involves the following steps:

Malting
Mashing
Fermentation
Distillation
Maturation
Bottling

It’s important to note that the exact process for making whisky can vary depending on the country and region of production, as well as the specific distillery and type of whisky being produced.

Whisky categories.

Whisky can be categorized in several ways, including by country of origin, production method, and flavor profile. Here are some common whisky categories:

Scotch whisky
Irish whiskey
American whiskey
Canadian whisky
Japanese whisky
World whiskies

In addition to these categories, whiskies can also be categorized by the age of the whisky, the type of cask used for maturation, and the region or terroir where the whisky is produced.

Tasting tips.

Tasting whisky is a sensory experience that can be enjoyed by both beginners and experts. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your whisky tasting:

Look: Start by examining the whisky’s color, clarity, and viscosity. Hold the glass up to the light to observe the color and clarity, and then swirl the whisky to observe its viscosity or “legs” on the glass.
Smell: Bring the glass to your nose and take a deep breath to smell the aromas of the whisky. Try to identify any scents you detect, such as fruit, spice, smoke, or wood.
Taste: Take a small sip of the whisky and let it coat your mouth. Swish it around to fully explore the flavors, and then swallow or spit it out. Try to identify any flavors you detect, such as sweetness, spiciness, or smokiness.
Finish: Pay attention to the aftertaste or “finish” of the whisky. Does the flavor linger in your mouth, or does it dissipate quickly?
Water: You may want to add a few drops of water to your whisky to open up the flavors and aromas. Experiment with the amount of water you add to find the right balance.
Note-taking: Take notes on your observations, including the color, aroma, flavor, and finish. This can help you compare different whiskies and remember your favorite ones.

Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the whisky and the experience of tasting it. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things!

Also read our whisky tasting blog for more information: heldeke.ee/article/whisky-tasting-in-tallinn/

Beginner friendly.

For beginners, it’s best to start with whiskies that are easy to drink and have a balanced flavor profile. Here are some beginner-friendly whiskies to consider:

Glenfiddich 12 Year: This is a smooth and approachable single malt Scotch whisky with flavors of honey, vanilla, and pear.
The Glenlivet 12 Year: The Glenlivet is a classic single malt Scotch whisky that is smooth and easy to drink, with notes of fruit, honey, and spice.
Talisker 10 Year: Talisker is a single malt Scotch whisky from the Isle of Skye that has a complex flavor profile, with notes of smoke, spice, and sea salt.

Remember, everyone’s taste preferences are different, so it’s important to explore different types and brands of whisky to find the ones you enjoy the most.

For more advanced whisky lovers.

For more advanced whisky drinkers, exploring complex, full-bodied, and unique whiskies can be a rewarding experience. Here are some whiskies that are considered to be more challenging, complex, and for advanced drinkers:

Lagavulin 16 Year: This Islay single malt Scotch whisky is known for its intense smoky, peaty, and medicinal flavors.
Laphroaig 10 Year: Another Islay single malt Scotch whisky, Laphroaig has a distinctive smoky, peaty, and salty flavor that is not for the faint of heart.

Remember, advanced whisky drinkers are always looking for new and exciting whiskies to try, so this list is by no means exhaustive. It’s important to experiment and try different types and brands of whisky to find the ones that you enjoy the most.