Bourbon Tasting is a Focus on Personal Preference
Bourbon tasting in its pure form, is a multi-sensory experience that engages sight, smell, taste, and touch. Begin by visually examining the bourbon in a proper glass, noting its color and viscosity. Swirl the liquid to release aromatic compounds and observe the “legs” or streaks on the glass, which indicate its age and alcohol content.
With the glass at your nose, identify the diverse aromas. Most notably, bourbon often presents caramel, vanilla, and oak flavors. Take time to appreciate the complexity of these scents before that first sip. Sometimes, consider placing the glass onto the side and gently rolling it to create a liquid motion. This motion naturally increases the nosing of aromas.
When it comes to bourbon tasting, take a small sip and let it coat your palate, paying attention to the initial flavors, followed by any evolving tastes. Bourbon’s sweetness, bitterness, and spiciness may unfold gradually. Note the texture—whether it feels smooth, oily, or robust.
While tasting, consider the finish—the lingering taste and warmth left in your mouth and throat. High-quality bourbons often have a long, satisfying finish. It’s sometimes beneficial to cleanse the palate between sips with water or unsalted crackers.
Engaging all the senses in this way enhances the appreciation of bourbon and allows the drinker to discover the subtleties of each unique bottle.
Skillful Cocktails
Shaken, not Stirred?
The choice between shaking in a cocktail shaker and stirring in a flask for mixed bourbon drinks can significantly influence the result. Shaking in a cocktail shaker introduces aeration and quick chilling, ideal for cocktails with juices, syrups, or ingredients that need thorough blending. It combines ingredients, creating a frothy texture and releasing vibrant flavors.
When it comes to making cocktails that are based solely on spirits, such as a classic Manhattan or Old Fashioned, there is a preference for stirring them in a flask. Stirring helps to blend the ingredients gently without introducing too much air. This preserves the drink’s clarity and thickness, while also maintaining the distinct flavors of the bourbon.
Whiskey Sour
To craft a frothy whiskey sour using a shaker, start by gathering ingredients: 2 ounces of whiskey, ¾ ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, ½ ounce of simple syrup, ice cubes, and an egg white. Combine these ingredients in the shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white. Next, add a handful of ice cubes and shake again for another 10 seconds to chill the mixture and create frothiness.
Strain the concoction into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice, using a Hawthorne strainer to catch ice and any larger pieces. The result should be a smooth, frothy whiskey sour with a delightful foam layer atop. Garnish with a lemon wedge for an added visual touch. The egg white is essential for achieving a frothy texture, adding a silky smoothness to this classic cocktail.
