What is the “Finish” in Whiskey Tasting?

Hey there, whisky enthusiasts and curious newcomers! Today, we’re diving into a topic that often leaves newcomers scratching their heads: the mysterious “finish” in whiskey tasting. Don’t worry if you’ve been nodding along in tastings, pretending to understand – we’ve all been there. Let’s demystify this concept together, shall we?

The Basics: What Exactly is the “Finish”?

When we talk about the “finish” in whiskey tasting, we’re not referring to the final sip of your dram (though that can be bittersweet in its own right). The finish is the lingering flavors and sensations you experience after you’ve swallowed the whisky. It’s like the encore of a great concert – the main event might be over, but the experience isn’t complete without it.

Think of it this way: the finish is what stays with you after the whisky has left your mouth. It can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the complexity and quality of the whisky. Some finishes are short and sweet, while others seem to evolve on your palate, revealing new flavors long after you’ve taken a sip.

Why Does the Finish Matter?

You might be wondering, “Angus, why should I care about what happens after I’ve swallowed the whisky?” Well, my friend, the finish is a crucial part of the overall tasting experience. Here’s why:

1. It Completes the Story: The finish is the final chapter in the whisky’s tale. It can either beautifully tie together all the flavors you’ve experienced or introduce an unexpected twist.
2. Quality Indicator: Generally speaking, a longer, more complex finish is often associated with higher-quality whiskies. It’s not a hard and fast rule, but it’s a good rule of thumb.
3. Balances the Experience: A good finish can balance out stronger initial flavors, creating a more harmonious overall experience.
4. Memorable Factor: Often, it’s the finish that lingers in your memory, quite literally leaving a lasting impression.
5. Reveals Hidden Depths: Sometimes, flavors that weren’t immediately apparent in the initial taste can emerge in the finish, adding complexity to the whisky.

Types of Finishes

Not all finishes are created equal. Let’s break down some common types you might encounter:

Short Finish

A short finish disappears quickly after swallowing. It’s not necessarily a bad thing – some light, easy-drinking whiskies are designed this way. They’re like a pleasant handshake rather than a long embrace.

Long Finish

Long finishes can last for several minutes. These are often found in more complex, aged whiskies. It’s like the flavor equivalent of a slow fade in music – it keeps you engaged long after the main notes have passed.

Smooth Finish

A smooth finish glides down easily without any harsh or burning sensations. It’s often described as “silky” or “creamy.”

Rough Finish

On the flip side, a rough finish might leave you with a burning sensation or unpleasant aftertaste. It’s not always a negative – some people enjoy a bit of “bite” in their whisky.

Complex Finish

This is where things get interesting. A complex finish evolves over time, revealing different flavors as it lingers. You might start with oak, transition to vanilla, and end with a hint of spice.

Dry Finish

A dry finish leaves your mouth feeling, well, dry. It’s often accompanied by tannic notes, similar to what you might experience with certain red wines.

Sweet Finish

Conversely, a sweet finish can leave you with the impression of sweetness, even if the initial taste wasn’t particularly sweet. This is common in whiskies aged in sherry or port casks.

What Influences the Finish?

The finish isn’t just magic (though it can feel that way sometimes). Several factors contribute to how a whisky finishes:

Age

Generally, older whiskies tend to have longer, more complex finishes. This is due to the extended interaction with the wood of the barrel, which imparts more flavors over time. As whisky ages, it also becomes smoother, which can affect how the finish is perceived.

Cask Type

The type of cask used for aging significantly impacts the finish. Ex-bourbon casks might lend vanilla and caramel notes, while sherry casks can impart dried fruit and nutty flavors. Some distilleries even experiment with unconventional casks like rum or wine barrels, which can lead to unique and interesting finishes.

ABV (Alcohol By Volume)

Higher ABV whiskies often have more intense, longer-lasting finishes. This is why many enthusiasts prefer cask strength whiskies – they pack more flavor punch. However, it’s worth noting that high ABV can sometimes overpower subtler notes, so it’s not always a case of “higher is better.”

Production Methods

Everything from the grains used to the distillation process can affect the finish. For example, peated whiskies often have a distinctive smoky finish that lingers. The shape of the still, the cut points during distillation, and even the water source can all play a role in shaping the finish.

Chill Filtration

Many whiskies undergo a process called chill filtration to remove certain compounds that can cause cloudiness when the whisky is chilled. However, some argue that this process can strip away some of the oils that contribute to a full-bodied mouthfeel and a long finish. That’s why you’ll sometimes see “non-chill filtered” proudly declared on whisky labels.

How to Appreciate the Finish

Now that we know what the finish is and why it matters, how do we best appreciate it? Here are some tips:

1. Take Your Time: Don’t rush to your next sip. Let the whisky linger in your mouth for a moment before swallowing.
2. Breathe: After swallowing, breathe in through your mouth and out through your nose. This helps you pick up on more subtle flavors.
3. Pay Attention: Consciously focus on the sensations and flavors that remain after swallowing. What do you taste? How does it feel?
4. Take Notes: Jotting down your observations can help you develop your palate over time.
5. Compare: Try tasting different whiskies side by side to compare their finishes.
6. Experiment with Water: Adding a few drops of water can change the finish dramatically. It can open up new flavors or soften harsh notes.
7. Consider Temperature: The temperature of the whisky can affect the finish. Try tasting the same whisky at room temperature and slightly chilled to see how it changes.

Common Finish Descriptors

When you’re starting out, it can be hard to put words to what you’re experiencing. Here are some common descriptors used for whisky finishes:

• Oaky: Think vanilla, wood, sometimes a touch of bitterness
• Spicy: Cinnamon, black pepper, ginger
• Sweet: Caramel, honey, toffee
• Fruity: Apple, citrus, dried fruits
• Smoky: Campfire, tobacco, earthy
• Nutty: Almonds, walnuts
• Floral: Heather, lavender, rose
• Herbal: Grass, hay, mint
• Maritime: Salt, seaweed, brine
• Leathery: Old books, tobacco pouch
• Medicinal: Iodine, antiseptic (common in some Islay whiskies)

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to describe what you’re tasting. Your palate is unique, and part of the joy of whisky tasting is developing your own vocabulary.

The Finish in Different Whisky Types

The finish can vary significantly between different types of whisky. Let’s take a quick tour:

Scotch Whisky

Single malts often have complex, lingering finishes. Depending on the region, you might get maritime saltiness (Islay), honeyed sweetness (Speyside), or fruity notes (Highlands). The finish in a Scotch can be a journey in itself, evolving from one flavor to another over time.

Irish Whiskey

Known for their smoothness, Irish whiskeys often have a clean, slightly sweet finish with notes of vanilla and grass. The finish tends to be lighter and more approachable than some Scotches, making them great for newcomers to the whisky world.

Bourbon

American bourbon typically finishes with sweet caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, often with a warming spice. The high corn content in bourbon’s mash bill contributes to its characteristic sweetness, which often carries through to the finish.

Rye Whiskey

Expect a spicier finish from rye, often with pepper, cinnamon, and sometimes a hint of mint. Rye finishes tend to be drier than bourbon, with a distinctive sharpness that many enthusiasts love.

Japanese Whisky

Often praised for their balance, Japanese whiskies can have delicate, nuanced finishes that evolve slowly. You might find subtle floral notes, a hint of umami, or a whisper of incense in the finish of a good Japanese whisky.

The Role of the Finish in Whisky Appreciation

Understanding the finish can elevate your whisky experience from simply drinking to truly appreciating. It’s like learning to appreciate the aftertaste of a fine wine or the lingering notes of a gourmet meal. The finish can reveal the true character of a whisky, showcasing the distiller’s skill and the impact of the aging process.

For newcomers to the whisky world, focusing on the finish can be a great way to start developing your palate. It’s often easier to identify flavors that linger than those that quickly pass by.

Remember, appreciating the finish isn’t about being pretentious or trying to impress anyone. It’s about enhancing your own enjoyment and understanding of this complex and fascinating spirit. The Finish and Food Pairing

The finish of a whisky can play a crucial role in food pairing. A long, complex finish might overpower delicate flavors in food, while a short, clean finish could complement a wider range of dishes. Here are a few pairing ideas based on different finishes:

• Whiskies with a sweet finish pair well with dark chocolate or blue cheese.
• Those with a spicy finish can complement grilled meats or spicy dishes.
• A whisky with a smoky finish might pair beautifully with smoked salmon or barbecue.
• Light, fruity finishes can work well with desserts or as an aperitif.

Experimenting with different pairings can be a fun way to explore how the finish interacts with various flavors.

The Finish in Whisky Production

For distillers, crafting the perfect finish is an art form. Many use a technique called “finishing” or “double maturation,” where the whisky is transferred to a different type of cask for the final months or years of aging. This can add layers of complexity to the finish.

For example, a Scotch might spend most of its life in ex-bourbon casks, then be “finished” in sherry casks to add fruity, nutty notes to the finish. Some distilleries get creative with their finishing casks, using everything from Madeira wine barrels to rum casks.

This technique allows distillers to fine-tune the finish of their whiskies, creating unique flavor profiles that set their products apart in a crowded market.

FAQs

Conclusion: Savoring The final Notes

The finish in whiskey tasting is more than just an afterthought—it’s a crucial component of the overall sensory experience. This lingering sensation provides valuable insights into the whiskey’s quality, complexity, and craftsmanship. A well-balanced finish can elevate an otherwise ordinary whiskey, while a poor finish can detract from an otherwise impressive dram.