The best whiskey is
the whiskey you like to drink,
the way you like to drink it.
— Principle of the Whiskey Tribe
We at Copper Widow cherish the shared experiences at the heart of people’s stories. At Whiskey tastings, people share an uncommon sensory experience, often leading to laughter and discussion. They binds people together and may lead to a new interest that they go on to share with one another and others!
We’ll help you add a whiskey tasting to your event, crafting a shared experience for friends and colleagues. Groups of friends at a private party, coworkers doing team building, or members of a club meeting will certainly enjoy this unique experience. Our knowledge and guidance support you and your guests so that everyone can relax and enjoy something different.
Whiskey can be shocking! Countless tales abound of people whose first experience with whiskey was harsh, sharp, and unpleasant. But watching a new enthusiast screw up their face on that first sip can be part of the fun.
There are many ways to enjoy whiskey. Some people like to drink it straight, savoring its rich flavors and smells. Others prefer to dull the sharper edges against a slowly melting ice cube, making it more refreshing in turn. Some people like to add a little bit of water to bring out the subtle flavors. And there are those who love to make whiskey cocktails, using their creativity to mix up delicious drinks. Whether you like to stick to tradition or try something new, there are endless paths to enjoying whiskey. We’d love to help your guests find the whiskey experience that’s right for them.
Before the Event
In most tastings, participants sample three to five small portions of whiskeys united by a shared theme—such as one Scotch from each of Scotland’s five whiskey-producing regions, or bourbon finished using three distinct wine barrels.
When planning a tasting, we coordinate with your organizer about location and timing logistics. Together, we choose a theme and the particular whiskeys that illustrate it.
We typically suggest elements that enhance the tasting experience. Even minor details, like glassware selection, can enhance the experience. Our guidance helps ensure the space is prepared with everything needed for your guests’ arrival.
The Tasting
Our sommeliers join you at your event.
After introducing the featured whiskies of the evening, our sommeliers guide guests on a sensory exploration of each pour.
We begin with the eyes. The color of a whiskey may hint at how it was made—or it may mislead. We explain why. The appearance also offers clues about mouthfeel: whether a whiskey will feel light and thin or oily and heavy on the tongue.
Next comes the nose. The sense of smell is magical because it is tied directly to our emotions and memories. The secret to exploring a whiskey’s heady aroma is to take it easy and open your mind and heart to what the spirit calls to mind. Nosing often sparks laughter and reminiscing among participants.
Finally, the true tasting. Whiskey flavor is complex and unique to each dram. Every decision made during production leaves a mark on the finished spirit. Fruits, florals, vanilla, caramel, the salt of the sea, iodine, oiled leather, and tobacco are all flavors you may encounter. In addition to the flavors inherent to the whiskey, our sommeliers can suggest small adjustments—adding water, changing glassware, or altering temperature—that cause different facets of the flavor to shine.
With each selection we seek stories and context to share during the tasting. We also answer general questions from the crowd about production, styles, and trivia. Each tasting is as unique as the people who attend, but they are always havens of smiles and excitement.