What is the ideal order of spirits for evaluation based on alcohol by volume?

The ideal order of spirits for evaluation based on alcohol by volume (ABV) is from lowest to highest. This method is commonly recommended because starting with lower ABV spirits helps to prepare the palate and enhance the tasting experience. As the evaluation progresses to higher ABV spirits, the palate can more effectively identify and appreciate the flavors without being overwhelmed by alcohol.

Beginning with spirits that have a lower alcohol content allows for more nuanced tasting notes and complexities to be recognized, which can become muted or lost when higher-alcohol spirits are introduced too early. This approach helps to build a more comprehensive understanding of the various characteristics of the spirits being evaluated.

Choosing an order based on highest to lowest ABV may lead to profiling that is overshadowed by the intensity of stronger spirits, while random orders or categorizing by color do not take alcohol levels into account, which are significant when assessing overall balance and flavor profiles.