Science-based research has proven that planning or anticipating an exciting event can be “a powerful, positive emotion that can help us live happier lives.” Sounds good to us. And since events are scarce at the moment, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you plan and throw your own whisky tasting party! After all, a mental-health boost during lock-down seems essential and who are we to argue with the science? 

Here is our 5-step guide to hosting your own whisky tasting party at home. The best part? With our pre-packaged TWR Box (a fully kitted whisky tasting set), the hard work has already been done (choosing a theme, picking and purchasing the perfect selection of bottles, pretty packaging) so all you need to focus on is the fun-stuff:

Step 1: The Guest-list

The first point to consider when planning your whisky tasting party is that each guest will need a seat and enough flat table-space in front of them for the mat (roughly A4-sized) and glassware. Once you’ve determined whether your ottoman can safely accommodate someone’s rear (or a sturdy tray), decide how many people you can invite, list the names, narrow them down and finalise.

Step 2: Glassware

Our TWR Box doesn’t include glassware but that doesn’t mean you need to invest your next paycheck in high-quality crystal. Simply use the glasses you have at home! We find wine glasses work best (anything with a fluted shape) or use some tumblers. Just make sure you have enough glasses to match the number of samples each box contains so that you can pour them all out.

Of course, you’re more than welcome to go pro and purchase official whisky tasting glasses for the event. Boxes of six crystal Glencairn-shaped glasses are available right here. And if you’re feeling generous, they would make phenomenal party favours for your guests to take home! 

Step 3: Order your Boxes

Once you know how many guests will be taking part and whether you’d like to purchase any glassware, head to our online store and place your order. Remember that each participant will need one box. We currently have two whisky tasting themes to choose from but if you suddenly have a change of heart, there is also the option of a terrific tequila or gin tasting theme. The choice is yours! 

Step 4: Food

A little-known fact about which food pairs well with whisky: literally anything. Despite what you may have read or heard, there are no set rules when it comes to whisky and food pairing, so pick the party food you’d prefer and enjoy it. We just suggest staying away from anything with too much chilli or garlic as you don’t want to numb your palette! Our whisky tasting Box will always include a piece of soft-butter fudge to pair with the peaty expressions; it’s a killer combo.

Step 5: Unboxing & Set-Up

Delivery can take between one and four working days so plan accordingly! None of the contents are perishable so ordering a week or two before the event will ensure you get your boxes in time. It also allows you to remove the folded mat for each guest and place them under a weight to flatten out the score lines but that’s not essential, just aesthetically more pleasing. 🙂 

Unboxing is so simple and the included insert card comes with detailed instructions. When all your guests are seated and you’re ready to begin, scan the QR code on the box lid to launch your presentation (use a Smart TV or air-play from your phone for a bigger screen) and enjoy the experience!

Alternatively, if you’re a group of 10 or more, we will gladly arrange a date and time to meet you online (via Teams or Zoom) and present your theme ‘live’. This is a great option for corporate functions (and the Boxes make fantastic corporate gifts). It also means we get to do what we love most: meet and interact with people who have a passion or interest in high-quality spirits and taste some exceptional whisky. It certainly fills our cup (or glass) to the brim!