How to Host a Whiskey Tasting Party with Indiana Whiskey

Turn your next get-together into a night worth toasting.

Whiskey tastings aren’t just for distilleries or fancy bars. They’re for anyone who loves good company and good spirits. Whether you’re a bourbon devotee or just whiskey-curious, hosting a tasting at home is a great way to explore the range of flavors that make Indiana Whiskey special.

This guide will walk you through how to set up your own tasting party, from choosing bottles to pairing snacks. With Indiana Whiskey as the star of the show, you’ll have an evening your guests won’t forget.

STEP 1: Pick Your Whiskey Lineup

The fun starts with your selection. Choose a few whiskeys that show off different sides of Indiana craft, from flavor to finish to personality. We recommend building a flight that takes your guests on a little flavor journey:

• Silver Sweet Corn Whiskey – Pure Indiana corn, distilled with precision and bottled unaged for a bold, clean, unapologetic flavor.

• ‘Just Whiskey’ Bourbon Whiskey – No gimmicks, no shortcuts, just honest craftsmanship. Smooth, balanced, and made the Indiana way.

• Breakfast of Degenerates – Maple meets whiskey in this rich, perfectly balanced pour. Sweet enough for brunch, strong enough for game day.

• Hoosier Sweet Heat – A cinnamon whiskey with attitude. Warm, spicy, and ready to handle whatever chaos the holidays bring.

• Confessions of a Chocoholic – Our signature whiskey infused with real milk chocolate for an indulgent, dangerously smooth finish.

  
  

Tasting Tip: Arrange your lineup from lightest to boldest. It helps guests notice how the flavor and heat evolve with each pour.

STEP 2: Get the Right Glassware

You don’t need fancy equipment, but the right glass makes a difference. Tulip-shaped glasses or Glencairns are ideal because they capture the whiskey’s aroma and help you appreciate every layer of flavor.

If you don’t have Glencairns, small wine glasses will do just fine. Just make sure each person has a fresh glass or can rinse between pours.

STEP 3: Set the Mood

The goal is comfortable, not pretentious. Dim the lights, put on a solid playlist (classic rock or bluegrass pairs surprisingly well), and give each guest a tasting mat or simple note card to jot down what they notice.

A table centerpiece of whiskey bottles and a few candles makes it feel intentional without being over the top.

STEP 4: Add Snacks That Compliment the Pour

No whiskey tasting is complete without a few good snacks to round out the experience. Light, flavorful bites like cheese, charcuterie, and chocolate pair beautifully with whiskey, enhancing its depth without stealing the spotlight. Offer a mix of salty, savory, and slightly sweet options to give guests something to nibble on between pours. 

Keep the portions small and the flavors balanced so the whiskey remains the star of the show. Having a little water and something neutral, like crackers, on hand will also help cleanse the palate and let every sip shine.

STEP 5: Taste Like a Pro

Walk your guests through the basics.

1. Look – Notice the color and clarity.

2. Smell – Swirl gently and take in the aroma before sipping.

3. Sip – Let it roll across your tongue and notice the flavors that unfold.

4. Finish – Pay attention to how long the flavor lingers.

Encourage guests to share their impressions. There’s no wrong answer when it comes to taste.

STEP 6: Swap Notes (and Maybe Favorites)

Once everyone’s had their turn, compare notes. Which whiskey surprised them? Which one was the crowd favorite? You can even rank the lineup and crown a winner for the night.

Want to add a twist? Try a blind tasting round and see who can guess which bottle is which. It’s harder than you think and makes for some good laughs.

Raise a Glass to Indiana Whiskey

Hosting a whiskey tasting at home is about more than comparing notes. It’s about sharing moments, stories, and a few laughs over a glass of something crafted with pride right here in Indiana. So gather your friends, pour a few drams, and let the conversation flow. After all, great whiskey deserves to be shared.

Ready to stock your bar for the occasion? Explore the full Indiana Whiskey lineup and order directly to your door at indianawhiskey.com.