Restaurateur/foodie meets and falls in love with Kentucky bourbon.
Bourbon has a complex and rich flavor profile that can complement a wide variety of foods. I think my love affair began because I love good food and discovered many meals were enhanced by this amazing spirit Here are some great food pairings for bourbon:
- BBQ: Bourbon and BBQ are a classic pairing. The smoky and sweet flavors of BBQ complement the smokiness and vanilla notes in bourbon. Try pairing bourbon with ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or smoked chicken.
- Cheese: The rich, creamy texture of cheese pairs well with the bold and spicy flavors of bourbon. Try pairing bourbon with aged cheddar, gouda, blue cheese, or brie.
- Chocolate: The sweet, rich flavor of chocolate can balance the smoky and spicy notes of bourbon. Try pairing bourbon with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or chocolate truffles.
- Grilled or roasted meats: Bourbon can pair well with grilled or roasted meats like
steak, lamb, or pork chops. The caramelized flavors of the meat can complement
the caramel and vanilla notes in bourbon.
- Spicy foods: If you enjoy spicy foods, try pairing bourbon with spicy dishes like chili, jambalaya, or Thai curry. The heat from the spices can be balanced by the sweetness and smoothness of the bourbon.
- Nuts: Nuts like almonds, pecans, and walnuts can bring out the nutty and toasty
flavors in bourbon. Try pairing bourbon with a nutty cheese board or a bowl of mixed nuts.
Overall, bourbon can be paired with a wide range of foods, so feel free to experiment and find your own perfect pairing.
The Wonderful World of Bourbon – to Taste it (correctly), is to Love it!
Training people on tasting and enjoying bourbon can be a fun and rewarding experience. I have converted many people to sushi and now on a mission to help people to fall in love with bourbon!
Here are some tips on how to do it:
- Start with the basics: When introducing someone to bourbon, start with the
basics. Explain what bourbon is, how it’s made, and what makes it different from other types of whiskey. Talk about the key flavor notes, such as vanilla, caramel, and oak.
- Use tasting glasses: Serve bourbon in tasting glasses, which are designed to
enhance the aroma and flavor of the whiskey. The glencarin is the original These glasses have a tulip-shaped bowl that narrows at the top, helping to concentrate the aroma and flavor.
- Smell first: Encourage people to smell the bourbon before taking a sip. This allows them to pick up on the aroma notes and prepare their palate for the flavor.
- Taste neat first: When tasting bourbon for the first time, encourage people to taste it neat (without any mixers or ice). This allows them to experience the full flavor and complexity of the whiskey.
- Add a drop of water: Adding a drop of water to the bourbon can help to open up the flavors and aromas. Explain how adding water can help to release the esters and other flavor compounds in the whiskey.
- Discuss flavors and aromas: As people taste the bourbon, encourage them to discuss the flavors and aromas they are experiencing. Ask them to describe the taste, texture, and finish of the whiskey.
- Experiment with food pairings: Encourage people to experiment with different food pairings to find their own favorite combinations. Suggest pairing bourbon with cheese, chocolate, or grilled meats.
- Have fun: Above all, make sure people are having fun and enjoying the experience. Bourbon tasting should be a relaxed and enjoyable activity that
allows people to explore new flavors and aromas.
By following these tips, you can help train people on tasting and enjoying bourbon and introduce them to the wonderful world of whiskey.