If you’re looking for a whisky tasting in Exeter but aren’t sure what to expect, this guide will walk you through it.
If you’ve ever thought about going to a whisky tasting but felt nervous or unsure, you’re definitely not alone.
A lot of people think they need to know what to say, what to taste, or what they’re supposed to notice before they go. But you don’t need to know anything beforehand. And if you’re in Exeter, we can point you in the right direction. To us. We are going to point you to us. Spoilers.
What is a whisky tasting, really?
At its core, a whisky tasting is just a small group of people trying different whiskies, taking their time, and sharing what they notice. Some tastings are more formal, but most (especially the best ones... like ours) are relaxed, social, and meant to help you find out what you enjoy.
What to expect at your first tasting
Going to your first whisky tasting can feel unfamiliar at first. You’ll typically try 4 to 6 whiskies, one at a time.
For each one, you’ll be encouraged to:
- Smell it
- Taste it
- Think about what it reminds you of
You might hear people describe whiskies as “fruity,” “spicy,” or “smoky,” but you don’t have to agree. If it tastes like apples to you, say so. If it tastes unfamiliar, that’s okay too.
How to taste whisky (without overthinking it)
This is the part where many people worry about making mistakes. But you can’t get it wrong.
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Take your time.
Whisky can change as it sits in the glass. -
Smell it first.
You might notice more aromas when you smell it than when you taste it. -
Take a small sip.
Let the whisky move around your mouth before you swallow. -
Ask yourself one question.
Do I like it? That’s the most important thing.
How many whiskies will you try?
Most tastings offer 4 to 6 drams. That’s enough to:
- Compare different styles
- Notice differences in flavour
- Start building your preferences.
It’s just enough to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
What if you don’t like whisky?
Usually, it’s not that whisky isn’t for you... It’s just that you haven’t found the right one yet. Whisky comes in a huge range of flavours, from light and fruity to rich and sweet, or even deep and smoky. At a tasting, you’ll try a mix. Most people find at least one dram that surprises them.
Why tastings are the best way to learn about whisky
You could buy a bottle, take it home, and try to work it out yourself.
Tastings speed up the learning process. Our brains love to compare things, especially with food and drink. Tasting whiskies side by side helps you notice more flavours.
Whisky tastings in Exeter
If you’re looking for a whisky tasting in Exeter, there are a few options, though not as many as in bigger cities. That’s part of what makes them special. Smaller tastings are often:
- More relaxed
- More interactive
- More personal. For beginners, that’s exactly what you want.
The hardest part of whisky is just getting started. After your first tasting, everything else feels easier. You’ll see it’s not about knowing the right words or having a perfect palate. It’s about paying a bit more attention and enjoying the process.
Thinking about your first whisky tasting in Exeter?
If you’ve been unsure, consider this your sign to give it a try.
Find a tasting, turn up, and see what you think.
You might be surprised by what you discover.
