Spirits Unveiled: My 6-Month Journey Through Whiskey, Tequila, and More
Spirits Unveiled: My 6-Month Journey Through Whiskey, Tequila, and More Spirits Unveiled: My 6-Month Journey Through Whiskey, Tequila, and More In October 2024, at 34, I dove into the world of spirits after hosting 3 cocktail parties where guests raved about my $20 bourbon Old Fashioneds but ignored my $15 vodka sodas. Curious, I spent 6 months tasting 12 spirits, spending $450 on bottles, and logging 180 hours of research and sipping. From whiskey’s caramel warmth to tequila’s peppery bite, I uncovered their secrets. Here’s my expert guide to 12 major spirits, with numbers, tables, and tips to navigate this boozy universe in your daily life. Why Spirits Are So Diverse Spirits are distilled alcohols (25–70% ABV), made from grains, fruits, or plants, then aged or flavored for unique profiles. A 2023 study notes 80% of their flavor comes from aging or distillation methods. My $50 Scotch had smoky peat notes, while my $30 ...