Drinking whiskey can be quite overwhelming. If you’re new to it and want to be able to tell a good one from a bad one, it can seem even more complicated. That’s why we consulted with expert Mandy Naglich, a food journalist and advanced cicerone, to get some advice on determining whiskey quality.

According to Naglich, a good whiskey should have a complex odor and taste. When you take a whiff, you should notice top notes like vanilla, caramel, or coconut. The flavor should start off nutty, similar to toasted walnuts, and then transform to reveal baking spices or stewed fruit. A well-made spirit should have many layers of flavor, making it taste different from start to finish. And just when you think it’s done, there may be subtle changes that surprise you. The complexity continues into the finish, which can have a slight drying tannic mouthfeel or a pleasant warming sensation.

Now that we know what to look for in a good whiskey, let’s talk about bad whiskey. Inferior whiskeys lack complexity. They tend to be one-note, often with a dominant vanilla or caramel flavor. Additionally, they finish quickly and with a hot sensation. While it’s common for any whiskey or alcohol to have a warming feeling, a burning or excessively hot sensation indicates poor whiskey production.

With this knowledge, it’s time to start exploring the finer flavor notes within whiskey. You can refer to Tasting Table’s list of the best 2023 whiskeys so far. These options should avoid the harsh burning finish that Naglich warned us about.

Remember, whiskey tasting is a journey of discovery and enjoyment. Take your time, savor the flavors, and don’t be afraid to try new brands and expressions. Cheers to finding your perfect whiskey!