First Time Whisky Tasting Tips

So you have never tried a Scotch Whisky before?  Not sure how to start and where to start?  Here are some ideas that can help you.

Choose your Scotch:  Each Scotch is different.  Within a line of Scotches they differ by age.  So start with a 12 to 15 year old single malt Scotch. 

I would suggest you try Belvine or Aberlour single malt Scotch.  You should probably stay away from highly peated scotch such as Laphroig to start with.  The highly peated Scothes are an aquired taste.

Purchase a Scotch glass.  A Scotch glass is wide at the bottom, taper to the top and then round out.  This shape is used to concentrate the aroma.  If you don't have the proper Scotch glass use a red wine glass, not as good but has the basic shape.

Water or not.  Some people never add water to their Scotch.  At a Scotch tasting you will add a small amount of water to the Scotch after tasting it full strength. 

As a first time taster you might want to add water first.  The water should be room temperature and be bottled or filtered to remove chlorine and other chemicals.

Now enjoy your entrance into Scotch.  And remember each Scotch has a different taste.  So explore and try all the different Scotch Brands and years you can find.