Which of the following is the first step in tasting spirits?

The first step in tasting spirits is to assess their appearance. This involves examining the color, clarity, and viscosity of the spirit in the glass. The appearance can provide important initial insights into the quality and characteristics of the spirit. For example, a clear liquid indicates purity, while the color can hint at age or the type of barrels used for aging. Viscosity, often assessed by observing how the liquid clings to the sides of the glass, can suggest alcohol content and body.

Understanding the appearance sets the foundation for deeper sensory exploration. Following this step, tasters typically proceed with the sniffing stage to identify aromas, followed by tasting to evaluate flavor. Each of these elements contributes to a comprehensive tasting experience, but beginning with appearance allows for an informed progression through the subsequent phases of tasting.