FIVE STEPS TO TASTING MOUNTAIN SPIRITS
Mountain spirits, rich in aroma and history, offer a unique tasting experience. To fully appreciate their flavours and subtleties, it’s essential to follow certain steps and pay attention to specific details. Here are the five steps to tasting a spirit.
1. TASTING FROM THE RIGHT GLASS
The shape of the glass can influence how the aromas are perceived. For mountain spirits, opt for specific tasting glasses such as the tulip glass or the Glen Cairn glass. Their upward-flaring shape concentrates aromas and enhances the olfactory experience.
2. TAKE TIME TO OBSERVE THE COLOR
Before even smelling or tasting, take the time to observe the color of the alcohol itself. It can tell you a lot about the ageing process and the ingredients used. Hold the glass up to the light and note the nuances of color as well as the clarity of the liquid. Mountain spirits can vary from crystal clear to golden or amber overtones.
3. SMELL THE AROMAS TO ENJOY MOUNTAIN SPIRITS
After observing the color, it’s time to smell the spirits. Gently turn the glass to release the aromas, then bring your nose close to the rim of the glass and inhale deeply. Note the different layers of aromas—herbaceous notes if you’re tasting our Sapinette/Fir Shoot, fruity notes if you’re tasting our Pear eau de vie – floral or woody notes may be present. Don’t hesitate to inhale several times to capture all the complexity.
4. TASTE IN THE MOUTH
Take a sip and let the taste of the spirits flow into your mouth. Concentrate on the sensations and flavors that emerge. Note the first impressions, then observe how these flavors evolve and develop. Mountain spirits can offer a range of tastes, from fresh and herbaceous to sweeter and caramelised.
5. APPRECIATE THE FINISH
The finish, or persistence on the palate, is an important part of the tasting experience. After swallowing or spitting out the liquid, concentrate on the flavors that remain. A long finish can reveal additional aromas and convey an idea of the quality and complexity of the alcohol. Take the time to savor this final stage for a full experience.
By following these five tips, you can fully appreciate the richness and diversity of flavors offered by these unique spirits. Whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur, each tasting is a new opportunity to discover and appreciate the treasures of our mountains and our craft distillery.
Are you near Valmorel? Don’t hesitate to visit our boutique and discover our spirits. Here you will learn more about tasting techniques and the production process.