Learn how to use your nose like a master distiller when you go whisky tasting! These Glasgow-based experts certainly know a thing or two about Scotland’s favourite spirit having run these entertaining tastings since 1998 – and they can’t wait to tell you all about it.
The great of advantage of this tasting school is that it is not part of a distillery so being completely independent means the hosts can scour the length and breadth of the country to find their favourite Scottish whiskies to present to you. And what a fine selection it is. All are top quality single malts but you probably won’t see them amongst the big name blended whisky bottles on the supermarket shelves. That’s because these are very much from smaller more ‘artisan’ producers so don’t be surprised if you’ve never even heard of a Glen Grant or Port Ellen before but you will love the taste.
Before you actually get down to the serious art of sipping a few wee drams you’ll be regaled with a bit of history and you’ll soon realise that this drink has a fascinating heritage that’s as rich as the taste and colour of these wonderful whiskies. Who knew more Scottish whisky is sold in one month in France than Cognac in a whole year? Did you know there are 109 licensed distilleries in Scotland?
You’ll also touch on how to serve your whisky. This subject always makes for a good debate with Scots divided between ice cubes neat and a bit of water. In Spain it’s mixed with cola whilst in China it’s drunk with cold green tea. Each to their own we say but your hosts are sure to share their opinion with you.
So now it’s time for the tasting. At least one whisky from each of the four main producing areas of Scotland will be lined up for you at this Glasgow venue. Now here’s the technique. Sip your dram and allow it sit on the tongue letting it coast the sides of your mouth. A little swirl around and you’ll soon start to pick out different flavours coming through…it might be oaky it might be fruity it might be spicy…
And that’s the joy of whisky tasting. Each of Scotland’s producers prides itself on creating a very distinctive and characterful tipple and even if you had no knowledge of whiskies before this session by the time this Glasgow team has finished with you you’ll be a bit of a connoisseur. But if Scottish whisky isn’t your tipple of choice you can book a gin tasting session instead to work those botanicals!
