For our whiskey-loving friends who want to recreate the Colorado whiskey experience from anywhere, pull up a seat. When it comes to hosting your first-ever whiskey tasting at home, Stranahan’s American Single Malt Whiskey* has you covered, from unique expressions to elevated barware.
But, how do you host a whiskey tasting at home? All you need is a bottle of Stranahan’s, a little curiosity, and an appetite to get started.
1. Setting the Scene: American Single Malt at Home
The goal for a hosted whiskey tasting at home is not perfection, but intention. Just as our whiskey is made only with the finest resources the Rocky Mountains can provide, your environment adds a layer of thoughtfulness to your guests’ experience.
These are a few whiskey tasting tips that will wow those who appreciate a good pour.
- Decent lighting: For analyzing the hue of your whiskey, from rich amber to bright gold
- Avoid additional scents: To prevent other smells from hindering your nosing or tasting experience
- Kitchen table or dining room table setting: A perfect space for displaying your whiskey tasting (and food pairings)
- Go screenless: We know. But, pen and paper are truly all you need, bringing a sense of camaraderie to the table
2. Elevating Your Whiskey Barware: Tools and Equipment
The room is set, but is your table? Most experts (and whiskey lovers) agree: the right barware and glassware can make all the difference for savoring whiskey. The goal is to start simple and then work your way up to an at-home master.
The Starter: For creating a strong foundation
- Nosing Glasses – Essential for any tasting flight, enhancing aromas through a teardrop shape
- Rocks Glasses – A classic for any whiskey lover, best for whiskey neat or on the rocks
- Coasters – Keep your wooden table undamaged (and in style) with a needlepoint coaster built to last
The Savant: For leveling up your craft
- Stave Flight Tray: An ideal way to display 3 taster glasses for your sippers
- Decanter and Tumbler Set: To keep your finest bottle always on display with masterful design quality
- The At Home Mixologist Set: The whole kit and caboodle, to transform your bar cart into something legendary
3. Quality Whiskey Tasting Ideas
So, what is the best whiskey for an at-home tasting? And what makes a whiskey high quality? We’re a bit partial to any American Single Malt within Stranahan’s award-winning portfolio, which makes any at-home sipping experience that much better.
To taste whiskey like a pro, here are a few different expressions that would create the perfect tasting flight.
Original: Crafted from barley and aged 5–9 years in new American oak, Stranahan’s Original is the whiskey that defined the American Single Malt category. Layers of cinnamon-butter, vanilla, and toasty oak create a smooth yet complex pour, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail.
Blue Peak: Double-distilled at high altitude and finished through the Solera process, Blue Peak delivers a uniquely balanced flavor profile. Expect warm brown sugar, baked apple, and butterscotch notes, finishing crisp and clean like the mountain air where it’s made.
Mountain Angel: A rare 10-year-old American Single Malt, Mountain Angel showcases it’s decade of aging in new American oak. Deep flavors of seasoned oak lead into a remarkably smooth, lingering finish, making it a whiskey for true collectors.
Sherry Cask: Aged in new American oak for 5-7 years and finished in Pedro Ximenez sherry barrels, this whiskey is rich with dried fruit, honey, and toasted nuts. Notes of cherry, fig, and warm spice highlight a sweet, rounded finish that honors old-world influence with Rocky Mountain whiskey craft.
Diamond Peak Caribbean Rum Cask: Finished in prized varietals of rum casks from the greater and lesser Antilles of the Caribbean, this expression brings vibrant tropical character to American Single Malt. Flavors of dried apricot, brown sugar, and cola spice mingle with Stranahan’s signature American Single Malt richness for an adventurous, island-meets-mountain sip.
Cask Strength: Bottled straight from the barrel, Cask Strength Single Barrel is whiskey in its purest form. Each release varies, but expect a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that ranges from buttery warm to malty butterscotch or oaky maple.
4. What to Look For: Engaging Your Guests
For your fellow sippers who are just becoming familiar with the spirit, they might need more guidance so they can appreciate whiskey as much as you do.
Let’s start with the very first sip. Many first-timers worry about whiskey burning, but our Whiskey’s Do’s and Don’ts Guide can help guide further on what to expect. And although the addition of ice is heavily debated, we see it as a tried-and-true way to enjoy the spirit.
5. Dinner is Served: Pairing Ideas AND Local Touches
Now, it’s time to give your tasting event a little Colorado flair. Here are some ideas for curating an unforgettable menu.
Sweet Foods: Rich chocolate, fresh fruits, and creamy desserts like cheesecake, crème brûlée, and butterscotch are all deliciously sweet ways to play up the vanilla and caramel flavors found in our award-winning American Single Malt Whiskey.
Savory Foods: If you’re preparing a full dinner course, a grilled protein is a great way to bring out spiced or smoky notes in the spirit.
Creamy Foods: Play up whiskey’s palate with nutty, semi-firm cheeses paired with the fruity notes of Stranahan’s Sherry Cask, or rich, “stinkier” cheeses alongside the earthy character of Stranahan’s Cask Strength Single Barrel.
For more bold pairings, check out our comprehensive Cheese and Whiskey Pairing Guide to discover your favorite.
Experience Award-Winning Drams at Home
Even when the comforts of home call, the satisfying and unparalleled taste of Stranahan’s brings the bold spirit of Colorado wherever you are, including right to your door.
And if you’re ready to take the next step with your whiskey knowledge, come see how it’s made on a tour at our distillery in Denver or join the American Single Malt Society for exclusive access to your favorite whiskey this side of the Mississippi.
*Claims based on 2020 – 2025 award results; third-party audit conducted by Avid Marketing Group.
