Bourbon for Beginners: How to Taste, Sip, and Savor

A Witty Guide to Not Faking It

So, you’ve decided to dip your toes into the rich, oaky waters of bourbon—welcome to the club. Whether you're trying to impress your father-in-law, your bartender, or just your own taste buds, you don’t need a monocle or a flannel shirt to appreciate good whiskey. You just need a glass, a little curiosity, and this guide.

At Left Bank, we believe bourbon should be approachable, enjoyable, and just the right amount of bold. So let’s break it down—no snobbery, no jargon—just real talk on how to taste, sip, and savor like a seasoned sipper.

🥃 Step 1: Pick Your Bourbon Wisely

Start with something smooth and well-crafted, like (shameless plug) Left Bank Bourbon. You want something with character, but not so much heat it blows your taste buds into next week. Look for bourbons in the 90–100 proof range—enough kick to be interesting, not enough to be punishment.

👃 Step 2: Smell First, Like You Mean It

Yes, we’re sniffing. But don’t shove your nose in like you're checking if the milk’s gone bad. Gently swirl the glass, take a little inhale with your mouth slightly open, and see what you pick up—vanilla? Caramel? Toasted oak? A memory of your grandfather’s study? All valid.

Pro tip: Don’t overthink it. If it smells good, you’re on the right track.

💧 Step 3: Add a Drop of Water (Optional, Not Taboo)

Some purists scoff at this, but trust us—a drop or two of water can open up the bourbon like magic. It softens the alcohol edge and brings out subtle notes hiding in the background. Think of it as letting your bourbon take off its coat and stay awhile.

👅 Step 4: Sip Slowly—You're Not at a Frat Party

Take a small sip and let it roll over your tongue. You might get sweetness up front, then spice, then a warm, cozy finish. That’s what we call the bourbon journey—no passport required.

Resist the urge to toss it back. Bourbon isn’t a shot, it’s a statement.

🔥 Step 5: Pay Attention to the Finish

The “finish” is what happens after you swallow—and no, that warm feeling in your chest doesn’t mean you’re getting emotional. A long, lingering finish is a good thing. It means your bourbon has stories to tell.

Short finish? Probably a younger bourbon. Long, spicy, complex finish? You’ve found a keeper.

🍫 Bonus Round: Try It with a Pairing

Bourbon is a natural with dark chocolate, nuts, barbecue, or even... spicy mango (we said what we said). The right snack can bring out different notes and turn your tasting into a mini adventure.

📝 Final Sip: Relax, You're Doing Great

You don’t need to be a bourbon historian or a tasting champion to enjoy whiskey. Just take your time, trust your senses, and don’t let anyone “mansplain” your tasting notes. Whether you pick up leather, cherry, or birthday cake—it’s your experience.

At Left Bank, we believe bourbon is for everyone—from first-timers to longtime fans. So pour a glass, take a sip, and enjoy the ride.

Cheers to your new favorite hobby. You’ve officially entered bourbon country. 🥃