What are common mistakes when making BAR Spirits Tasting Methodology?

Question

Accepted Answer

1. Nosing at full cask strength without water — high ABV spirits (58%+) numb the olfactory receptors. Always add a few drops of still water before nosing.
2. Mistaking peat smoke for 'burnt' or 'faulty' — peat smoke on Islay Scotch is intentional and desirable; evaluators unfamiliar with the style mark it as a fault.
3. Confusing rhum agricole with molasses rum — agricole has a distinctly grassy, vegetal, fresh character; evaluators expecting molasses sweetness will miss the category entirely.
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