Whiskey straight from the still is a clear, potent liquor with virtually none of the flavors characteristic of aged whiskey. Many know this liquid by the name “moonshine,” a term coined in the 18th century when whiskey drinkers avoided taxation by making and buying whiskey at night. But it’s barrel aging that gives whiskey its familiar color and taste. The extent to which a barrel is charred prior to aging will have an impact on the compounds found in the wood.

Prior to being filled with whiskey, barrels are primed for aging by charring the inside of the barrel. Doing so alters the nature of the oak, allowing the distiller to manipulate the reaction between the barrel and the whiskey. The wood can impart a variety of flavors to the whiskey, like vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, toffee, coconut, oak, spice, or smoke, depending on the char level. Some distillers like to get experimental with charring, but in general there are 4 levels.

THE GLASS

The ideal glass for tasting whiskey is the Glencairn whiskey glass. Unlike the snifter whose shape can encourage the alcohol vapors to dominate other aromas, the Glencairn is more suited for rolling, allowing the aromas to mingle as they travel toward the rim.

THE NOSE

First, roll (but do not swirl) the whiskey to release the aromas. Next, carefully sniff the glass from the top of the rim. Avoid sticking your nose in the glass as done in a wine tasting—whiskey’s higher alcohol content can cause dizziness when breathing it in. Don’t try to pick out any one smell. Instead, let the experience dictate the aromas you notice.

THE TASTE

Taste the whiskey by allowing it to roll over your tongue before swallowing. The more you taste whiskey, the more accustomed you will become, making it easier to taste beyond the alcohol. When you’ve got a good feel for the flavor, this is when you can swallow.

THE FINISH

The warm feeling after swallowing whiskey is called the finish. Pay attention to the length and intensity of the warmth. Notice any flavors that surprise you.

• The warmer a whiskey is, the more you’ll notice flavors and scents.
• Adding ice softens these flavors and scents, making the whiskey easier to sip.
• Some whiskey purists believe ice takes away from the true whiskey experience.
• If using ice, avoid diluting the whiskey by using a large block of ice.
• The quality of the ice can affect a whiskey’s taste. Ice made from clean and freshly frozen water is best.