There’s something special about bringing people together over a dram of whisky. Whether it’s a casual gathering with friends, a corporate event, or a pub session for whisky newcomers, hosting a whisky tasting is about more than just the spirit in the glass. It’s about sharing stories, learning, and enjoying the journey whisky takes us on.

I’ve hosted whisky tastings across New Zealand—from private events to pub nights—and what I’ve learned is that the best tastings aren’t about having the rarest or most expensive bottles. They’re about creating an atmosphere where everyone, from the whisky enthusiast to the curious beginner, feels welcome. Here’s what I’ve found works best when putting together a great whisky tasting.

Setting the Tone

The atmosphere you create is just as important as the whisky itself. Whether you're hosting in a pub or a private home, the vibe should be relaxed and inviting. People should feel comfortable asking questions, sharing opinions, and—most importantly—enjoying the whisky in front of them.

If you’re hosting at home, dimmed lighting and soft music can set the right mood. At a pub, the camaraderie between guests adds a lively touch, and I’ve found that people love it when the setting reflects the whisky—whether it’s something traditional for Scotch or more laid-back for a bourbon night.

Choosing the Whiskies

This is where the fun begins. The best tastings usually offer a variety of whiskies, giving guests a chance to experience different styles. I like to start with something approachable, especially if there are beginners in the group. A good mix might include:

• A light, fruity whisky like an Arran 10 for beginners.

• A rich, sherry-cask whisky for something a bit more complex (think GlenDronach).

• A peaty option like a Laphroaig or Ardbeg for those wanting to experience the smoky side of whisky.

For a tasting, three to five different whiskies is a good range—enough to explore different flavors but not so many that palates get overwhelmed.

Glassware Matters

Believe me, the glass you drink whisky from can change the experience. I swear by the Glencairn glass for tastings—it’s shaped perfectly to capture the aromas. And whisky, after all, is as much about the nose as it is about the taste. If you don’t have Glencairn glasses on hand, a tulip-shaped glass will do the trick.

For tastings with beginners, I often take a moment to explain why we use these glasses and how they enhance the experience. It’s small details like this that make guests feel like they’re getting something more than just a drink.

The Pour and The Taste

At every tasting I host, whether it’s in a pub or a private event, I always encourage guests to go slow. Whisky tasting is not about the size of the pour—it’s about the experience. I typically pour 15ml samples (that’s just over half an ounce) for each whisky. This is enough to get a good sense of the flavor without overwhelming the palate.

Once the whisky’s in the glass, I guide the group through the process of tasting:

• Look: Hold your glass up to the light and notice the color—it’s your first hint of what’s to come.

• Nose: Swirl it gently and take a whiff. You’ll often pick up the subtler notes that the taste alone might miss.

• Taste: Take a small sip, letting it coat your tongue before swallowing. Then pause—sometimes it’s the aftertaste that tells the real story.

Encourage Conversation

The best tastings are interactive. Ask your guests what they’re picking up—there’s no wrong answer when it comes to tasting whisky. Some might get hints of vanilla, while others might pick up fruit, smoke, or spices. It’s all about perception, and the fun part is seeing how everyone experiences the same whisky differently.

I’ve had tastings where someone describes a whisky as “like a campfire on the beach,” and suddenly, the whole room starts to pick up those same smoky, salty notes. It’s moments like these that make a whisky tasting memorable.

Food Pairing (Optional but Fun)

Food can elevate a whisky tasting. While it’s not essential, offering small bites can enhance the experience. Dark chocolate, smoked meats, or even a sharp cheese can pair wonderfully with different whiskies. If you’re going all out, you can even try pairing each whisky with a specific bite. Just keep it simple—small nibbles work best.

Keep It Fun

Most importantly, keep the mood light. Whisky is meant to be enjoyed, not taken too seriously. In my experience, tastings where people are free to laugh, share stories, and simply enjoy the evening are the ones people remember the most. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing people together and enjoying good whisky.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger event, the key to a great whisky tasting is making it welcoming and engaging. Through my tastings across New Zealand, I’ve seen that the whisky is only part of the experience—it’s the shared moments, the stories, and the discovery that make a tasting truly memorable.

So gather some whiskies, grab your friends or clients, and have fun exploring the incredible world of whisky together.

Phil

First Phil Whisky Host