Whisky Recommendations for Beginners: A Journey of Discovery
Recently, I had the pleasure of curating a whisky tasting event at Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh. The main goal of this tasting was to provide newcomers with an introduction to the diverse world of Scottish whisky. In this carefully selected lineup, we included single malts from each of the five regions, as well as a blend, to offer a comprehensive tasting experience.
I find great joy in hosting these types of tastings as they allow me to extend a welcoming hand to those who are new to whisky. It’s an opportunity to dispel any misconceptions or myths right from the start. One common question I often encounter is, “What whisky should beginners try?” My advice is usually to sample at least two contrasting whiskies to discern your preferences. Identifying what you enjoy or dislike about each dram provides valuable insights for future tastings.
Developing the ability to discern the nuances in aroma and flavor between two whiskies is a crucial step in the journey of whisky appreciation. While some may caution against starting with smoky drams, I beg to differ. My personal whisky journey began with smoky whisky, evoking memories of snacking on smoked meats during childhood hikes with my father in Sweden.
Embracing the Smoky Drams: Breaking Misconceptions
During the tasting event, one of the standout whiskies was the heavily peated Ardbeg An Oa. Surprisingly, many attendees who initially expressed skepticism towards smoky whiskies ended up favoring this dram. The perception that smoky whiskies are only for a select few can be misleading. Intense smoky flavors, especially when combined with higher alcohol content, may seem overwhelming to some. However, preconceived notions can hinder one’s ability to appreciate the complexity of these whiskies.
I recall instances from my time leading whisky tours where individuals were dissuaded from trying smoky whiskies based on others’ opinions. This preemptive judgment creates a negative bias, preventing individuals from forming their own conclusions. Just like how my father-in-law adamantly refuses to try oysters due to hearsay, limiting oneself based on others’ experiences can hinder personal exploration.
While peated whiskies may not serve as everyone’s gateway into the world of Scottish whiskies, they can offer a unique and rewarding experience, as it did for me. Let’s not allow misconceptions to overshadow the journey of whisky exploration.
Whisky of the Week: Talisker Port Ruighe
For this week’s featured whisky, I have selected the Talisker Port Ruighe, a highlight from the recent tasting lineup. This single malt undergoes a finishing process in ex-port casks, resulting in a delightful fusion of black pepper, earthy oak, and jammy fruitiness with a hint of saltiness. While Talisker utilizes peated barley, the whisky is not classified as heavily peated, making it an intriguing choice for those seeking a milder smoky profile.
Ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate a coastal influence in their whisky, the Talisker Port Ruighe offers a distinctive character with the subtle influence of port casks. This versatile whisky pairs exquisitely with haggis, oysters, and cheese, particularly complementing blue cheese varieties.
Moa Reynolds, an Edinburgh-based content creator, writer, and photographer, is the creative force behind the widely acclaimed Swedish Whisky Girl social media accounts and blog. Connect with her on Instagram @swedishwhiskygirl for more captivating whisky insights and recommendations.
In conclusion, embarking on a whisky tasting journey should be a delightful and enriching experience. By challenging preconceptions and embracing diverse flavor profiles, one can unlock a world of discovery within each dram. Let your palate guide you through the vast landscape of Scottish whiskies, and savor the complexities that each bottle unveils. Cheers to the endless possibilities that await in the realm of whisky exploration.
