Discovering the Joy of Whiskey: An Advent Calendar Tradition

Whiskey lovers know there’s a certain magic in opening a bottle and discovering its unique story. But what if you could extend that joy for an entire month? Enter the whiskey advent calendar tradition—a delightful way to explore a variety of flavors while sharing the experience with friends.

The Tradition: A Group Journey Through Whiskey

For the past several years, I’ve been part of an annual whiskey advent calendar with a group of 12 friends. It’s simple: each of us chips in about $125, and a volunteer curates a selection of 12 different whiskey bottles and gives us samples from each.

The goal? To experience the spectrum of whiskey—from lesser-known distilleries to top-shelf staples, and those in between. Every day, we each open our pour, and we all take part in tasting it, either together or by sharing our notes in a group chat.

This tradition allows us to indulge our curiosity and explore a range of whiskies without the financial burden of buying them all individually. And each year, we learn something new about what we enjoy—and what we don’t.

Lessons in Taste: Dispelling Whiskey Myths

One of the biggest revelations from our tradition is that great whiskey doesn’t have to break the bank. Some of my personal favorites have been bottles under $50, easily holding their own against rarer, more expensive options.

This annual tradition has also helped me develop a deeper appreciation for whiskey, teaching me to approach it with an open mind. It’s not always about price or exclusivity—it’s about finding what resonates with your palate.

A Quick Primer on Whiskey

Woodford Reserve tasting, Kentucky

For those new to whiskey, let’s break down the basics:

What is Whiskey?

Whiskey is a distilled liquor made from water and a fermented grain mash. It’s then aged in wood barrels, giving it its signature flavor and color. The choice of grain—be it corn, rye, wheat, barley or even rice—plays a big role in the final taste.

Different Styles of Whiskey:

• Bourbon: At least 51% corn, offering a sweet and smooth profile.

• Rye Whiskey: Spicy and bold, made primarily from rye grain.

• Blended Whiskey: A mix of different whiskeys, often smoother and more approachable.

• International Varieties: Think Japanese whiskey, which often uses rice, or Scotch, known for its smoky peat notes.

Getting Started: Tips for Whiskey Newbies

Diving into the world of whiskey can feel overwhelming, but here’s some advice to make it easier:

1. Start Small: Don’t splurge on your first bottle. A great whiskey can cost under $100, and many local distilleries offer smaller sample sizes or flights.

2. Experiment with Tastings: Many bars offer whiskey flights, or you can visit distilleries for guided tastings. These experiences are an excellent way to refine your preferences.

3. Share the Experience: Whether it’s a whiskey advent calendar or casual tastings with friends, learning together is half the fun.

Personal Reflections: Embracing Affordable Whiskeys

Buffalo Trace Rickhouse

Over the years, I’ve found that my favorite bottles are often the most accessible ones. Sure, it’s exciting to taste a rare, high-end whiskey, but I’ve learned not to equate price with quality.

What matters most is the experience: the memories made while sharing a pour with friends, discovering subtle flavors, and enjoying the journey of exploration.

Whiskey: A Gift for All Occasions

Whether neat, on ice, or mixed into a classic Old Fashioned, whiskey is versatile and timeless. It makes a thoughtful gift and pairs beautifully with a variety of meals.

Most importantly, whiskey is about discovery. It’s about finding what you love, embracing your personal palate, and enjoying the company of others along the way. So, here’s my advice: pour yourself a glass, gather your friends, and start exploring.

Cheers to the adventure!