LLJH wrote:Ok so what started as just a fun event in my neighborhood is now a full blown event. I have about 30 guys coming for my bourbon tasting. How much bourbon do I need? They all look like they like to drink.
if its a gathering to try and compare bourbons, Id have maybe 6 offering. More than that and people forget the first one by the 5th one, and the options get too blurred. I always like to throw one good cheapie in the mix, and enjoy seeing how many people actually enjoy it. HH6BIB or HH6/90 are my typical put-ins for such a role.
you also have to figure proof ranges. if its a tasting/comparison, they should all be similarly proofed to level the playing field. Think Booker's versus Jim Beam white 7 year....same age range, same distillery, different proofs, VERY different experiences. I do most of my tastings at the 90-100 proof mark, but its just personal preference.
Dont go for 'flash', thinking you have to offer only upper shelf stuff. Most guys drink, and enjoy, mid shelf stuff. there are a LOT of good bourbons in the $25-35 range.
for how much to offer....if you do one ounce pours, one 750 bottle will supply 25 guys. half ounce pours are good for tastings, otherwise you end up with 30 hammered guys each having had 6 ounces.
finally....have fun!
Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2014 11:01 am