The Complete Whiskey Course

A must-read for aspiring connoisseurs, and a thorough refresher for seasoned whisky lovers. Renowned whiskey educator Robin Robinson demystifies the “water of life" in a definitive, heavily illustrated tome designed to take readers on a global tour of the ever-expanding world of whiskey.

Across ten robust classes. Robinson explains whiskey history, how it defined the way whiskey is made in different countries and regions, the myriad styles, how aging and finishing works, and the basics of nosing and tasting whiskey. In chapters dedicated to American whiskey (including bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, and rye), American Craft whiskey, Scotch, Irish, Canadian, Japanese, and world whiskies, Robinson presents the best offerings from new and historic producers, how to choose among them, and how to build a collection of your own. Each class is a journey into a country's whiskies and makers, including recommended bottles and styles, as well as insider information on how distilleries make their unique offerings. Each chapter includes themed tastings organized by bargain, value, special occasion, and splurge price categories.

This thoroughly up-to-date and wide-ranging guide also offers helpful recommendations on how to lead your own tasting, a glossary of terms, food pairings, and tips on everything from glassware to whiskey festivals and how to read a label.