This article was co-authored by Tom Blake. Tom Blake manages the bartending blog, craftybartending.com. He has been a bartender since 2012 and has written a book named The Bartender's Field Manual. This article has been viewed 542,066 times.

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To properly taste single malt scotch, pour a 1.5 oz shot of the liquor into a tulip-shaped glass or a tumbler. If the scotch you’re drinking is over 80-proof, add a splash of water to open up the flavor and release the aroma. Swirl the scotch around in the glass, then slowly inhale the aroma through your nose. When you’re ready, take a sip of the scotch, letting it coat your mouth. Try to pick out different flavors, like including smoky, nutty, oaky, or fruity notes. Keep reading for tips from our bartending reviewer to learn how to pick a scotch to enjoy!