Taste Bourbon
Bourbon tastings are becoming as popular as wine tastings in many bars and restaurants. The rise of small batch and single barrel bourbon in the 1990's marked the resurgence of a time-honored and mostly forgotten American tradition. That tradition is the tasting of fine bourbon sans cocktail. You should learn about the ins and outs of tasting bourbon before trying it critically. The beginning bourbon taster should read on for a quick course in the wonders and joy of tasting this delicious treat. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Know what bourbon is. Bourbon is a style of American whiskey. Contrary to popular belief, bourbon doesn't have to come from the state of Kentucky, though most brands do. By federal law, bourbon must be brewed with a grain content of at least 51 percent corn and aged for at least two years in charred new oak barrels. After the distilling process, bourbon has a very high alcohol content and must be watered down. Most distillers make their bourbon between 80 and 100 proof. This means it contains 40 to 50 percent alcohol by volume.
2. Keep the bourbon by itself. Don't mix bourbon when tasting. The bourbon has already been mixed with water before being bottled. If the alcohol content is too much, it is alright to add a little water or a couple of ice cubes. Bourbon is best tasted straight at room temperature, though. Bourbon makes for a great cocktail, but you should never mix bourbon at a tasting.
3. Savor and sip the bourbon. Never chug it. Bourbon is something to be savored slowly without the addition of carbonation, fruit or sugary colas. While those mixes may be fine for a cocktail party, you don't slug back three bourbon and colas when doing a tasting. You savor and sip a good bourbon. Take in the aroma and admire the color. Hold the taste on your palate.
4. Learn smell with your mouth. Your nose and your taste buds are connected. If all you do is smell the bourbon with your nose, you're missing out because the alcohol overpowers your nostrils. Instead, hold your mouth slightly open just above the rim of the glass. Take it in, ever so slightly, with your nose and your mouth.
5. Describe to your tasting partners what you are sensing and take notes. If it tastes like a new car smells, say it. If it smells like something your cat dropped in the litter box last night, say it. It's supposed to be fun and enlightening, so don't be intimidated by others who claim to know more about what you taste, smell and feel. Speak with confidence.
Tags: with your, your mouth, alcohol content, cocktail should, nose your, Taste Bourbon, tasting bourbon