142: Blind Tasting: The Best Way to Train Your Palate?

So I got a Blind from The Rye Guy. Does blind tasting make your palate better. Thats what were here to find out. Hope you enjoy.

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What is Blind Whiskey Tasting

A blind whiskey tasting is the process of sampling and evaluating whiskey without knowing its brand, price, or label

. This eliminates bias and allows the taster to form an opinion based purely on the spirit's aroma, taste, and finish. It is a popular practice among both casual drinkers and experts for exploring new whiskies and challenging their own palates. 

Why taste whiskey blind?

• Removes bias: The influence of a prestigious name or high price can unconsciously sway a taster's perception of quality. Tasting blind ensures that judgment is based solely on sensory experience.

• Focuses on quality: It directs attention to the whiskey's inherent characteristics, such as craftsmanship, complexity, and balance. This can reveal that an inexpensive bottle is more enjoyable than a supposedly high-end one.

• Enhances education: For both novices and seasoned enthusiasts, blind tasting is a fun way to improve sensory skills. It trains the palate to identify specific flavor notes like oak, smoke, fruit, and spice without relying on marketing claims.

• Levels the playing field: In a group setting, blind tasting allows people with varying levels of experience to participate equally. It promotes discussion about what each person is experiencing, which can highlight nuances others might have missed. 

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How to host a blind tasting

To ensure a fair and fun tasting experience, preparation is key. 

• Select the whiskies: Choose a group of three to five whiskies, as more can fatigue the palate. For the most accurate comparison, select whiskies of a similar style and proof range (within 10 proof points).

• Conceal the identities: Before guests arrive, have a non-participant—or yourself, if you are participating—pour each whiskey into identical, numbered vessels, such as carafes or vials.

• Take notes: Use a tasting mat or scoresheet with numbered spaces corresponding to the samples. The scoresheet can include sections for notes on appearance, aroma, taste, and finish.

• Taste and discuss:

  • Set out the numbered glasses, palate cleansers like water and crackers, and tasting sheets.

  • Have participants taste each whiskey one by one, recording their personal impressions.

  • Save discussion until everyone has completed their evaluation to avoid influencing others.

• The big reveal: Once all samples have been scored, unveil the identities of the whiskies and compare notes. This is often the most surprising and enjoyable part of the event. 

Tell me more about how blind tastings help develop a whiskey palate

Blind whiskey tastings are one of the most effective ways to develop a whiskey palate because they eliminate bias and force the taster to rely purely on their senses

. Regular blind tasting hones your ability to identify and differentiate subtle sensory characteristics, building a strong "sensory memory" over time.