Is there anything better than opening a new bottle of bourbon? The Bourbon Flight has often been asked, is there a proper way to smell bourbon? The answer is Yes.
There are recommended steps for smelling bourbon, which can help you appreciate its aroma and flavor profile. Here’s a simple guide on how to smell bourbon from your friends here a TBF:
- Choose the right glass: A tulip-shaped glass or a Glencairn glass is often recommended for tasting bourbon, as it allows the aroma to concentrate towards the top of the glass, making it easier to smell.
- Pour a small amount: Pour a small amount of bourbon into the glass, about 1 ounce or 30 milliliters. This will allow you to swirl and sniff the bourbon more easily.
- Warm the bourbon: Hold the glass by the base and gently swirl the bourbon to warm it up, releasing its aroma. This can help open up the flavors and make it easier to smell.
- Take short sniffs: Bring the glass to your nose and take short sniffs with your mouth slightly open. Avoid taking deep, long sniffs, as this can overwhelm your senses.
- Note the aromas: Pay attention to the different aromas you detect. Bourbon can have a wide range of aromas, including notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, spices, fruit, and more. Try to identify the different scents and think about how they interact with each other.
- Take your time: Spend some time smelling the bourbon and let the aromas evolve. Swirl the bourbon in the glass occasionally to release more aromas.
- Cleanse your palate: If you’re tasting multiple bourbons, or if you’re new to bourbon tasting, it’s a good idea to cleanse your palate between sniffs. You can do this by sipping water or eating a plain cracker to reset your senses.
Remember, everyone’s sense of smell is different, so the aromas you detect may vary from what others perceive. The key is to take your time, be mindful of the aromas, and enjoy the experience of smelling bourbon.
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