When people need tips and advice they often look to the internet for assistance. This could be for anything from the best foods for heavy workouts to the right whiskey for special occasions. In terms of the latter, there are lots of factors to consider – from the type of whisky to the price tag. In this article, we’ll discuss 6 things you should keep in mind when shopping for whisky.
1. The Presentation
Whisky makes a great gift, but you want to be sure that you’re giving it in the best possible way. The presentation is important, so consider getting a nice bottle and box to put it in. If it’s going to be a thank-you gift, why not include a personal note with your own thoughts on why you’re grateful to the recipient? Alternatively, if you’re giving it as a birthday present, you could include a short story about a memorable moment from the recipient’s life.
In terms of gift packaging, there are lots of websites that can help you. You can find a single malt whisky collection, special edition gift sets, and remarkable stills. It’s also possible to buy whiskey and glass box sets, whiskey miniatures, and whiskey tasting gift sets.
2. Your Budget
Before you begin shopping you need to know how much money you’re willing to spend on a bottle of whisky. This is important because the price can range from $20 to $200+. Some recipients will be happy to receive an inexpensive bottle whilst others will have a more discerning (and expensive) pallet! You may be buying a gift for one person or making the drink available at a social gathering. It’s always wise to spend a little extra if you’re buying it for a special occasion. Remember, though, that the price is not always indicative of quality – do your research before you buy!
Age is an important factor when it comes to price – generally, the older the whiskey, the more expensive it’ll be. This is because older whiskeys are rarer and harder to find, and have had more time to develop their flavor. Some whiskies are more popular than others, which makes them more expensive. Another factor that affects the price is where the whisky is made.
3. Where To Shop
There are a few different places that you can buy whiskey from, and each has its own benefits. The first is your local liquor store. This is usually the most convenient option, as you can simply stop in and pick up what you need. However, the selection at your local store may be limited, in which case you may prefer to go online. This can be a great choice if you’re looking for a specific type or brand of whiskey that your local store doesn’t carry. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll likely have to pay for shipping, so factor that into the cost when making your decision.
Finally, you could always buy whiskey from a distillery. This is usually the most expensive option, but it’s also the best way to get a truly unique and high-quality product. Plus, you’ll be supporting the distillery directly, which is always a good thing. No matter where you decide to buy your whiskey from, do plenty of research first. That way, you can be sure that you’re getting the most suitable beverage for the occasion.
4. The Type Of Whiskey
There are many different types of whisky, each with its own distinct flavor profile. When choosing something for an important occasion, it’s important to consider what kind of flavors your guests will enjoy. Scotch whisky, for example, is typically made with peated barley and has a smoky flavor. Bourbon whiskey, on the other hand, is made with corn and has a sweeter taste.
Irish whiskey is often made with a mix of both barley and wheat, giving it a lighter flavor. Japanese whisky is becoming increasingly popular and is known for its delicate, floral notes. Rye whiskey is another option that’s gaining popularity, and it has a spicy flavor profile.
5. The Location
If you’re hosting the event at your home, you’ll need to make sure that you have a place to store the bottles of whisky. If you’re not serving whisky neat, you’ll also need to have some alternative drinks on hand. For instance, if you’re hosting a whiskey tasting, you’ll need to have water and ice available so that your guests can dilute their drinks to taste. You might also want to provide some non-alcoholic options like soda or juice for those who don’t drink alcohol.
If you’re hosting the event at a hotel or other venue, you’ll need to check with them to see if they have a liquor license. You’ll also need to find out if they allow outside alcohol to be brought in. This will narrow down your choices as to whether they supply the drinks, you supply them or an outside catering company gets involved.
6. The Glassware
No matter where the event is held, you’ll want to make sure that you have enough glasses for all of your guests. If you’re hosting a large number of people, you may want to consider renting glassware. In terms of numbers, you’ll need to provide a few extra in case of breakages.
It’s also important to ensure that the glasses are the proper size and shape for the whisky you’ll be serving. The most common type is the tulip glass, which has a wide bowl and narrow rim. This type of glass concentrates the aromas of the whisky, making it easier to enjoy its flavor. Another popular option is the Glencairn glass, which has a more traditional shape – and it’s perfect for enjoying a dram of whisky.
By thinking about these 6 key areas you’ll be able to make a wise choice with your whiskey buying. Not only will it be the right tipple for the recipient/s but it’ll also be served correctly. This will ensure that this king of drinks is fully enjoyed by everyone concerned.