About the Experience
Bourbon and Scotch share historical roots, yet evolved along different paths — shaped by geography, regulation, climate, and cultural philosophy. The focus is not on declaring one superior, but on understanding how structural differences shape aroma, texture, sweetness, spice, and finish.
This workshop explores those differences through structured comparison. Rather than asking which style is “better,” participants discover how ingredients, distillation practices, oak treatment, and maturation environments influence sweetness, texture, spice, and finish.
Built around contrast, the session reveals how similar raw materials can produce profoundly different expressions — and how intentional production choices define character. Guests leave with greater clarity, vocabulary, and confidence when navigating both traditions.
Packages / Pricing
1-6 participants
$499
7-10 participants
$599
11-15 participants
$699
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Corporate/Custom configurations and larger group formats available upon request.
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Alcoholic beverages are not included in the session fee.
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All whiskies are selected and provided by the host, in coordination with the TasteIST trainer prior to the event.
Workshop Flow & Guided Tasting Format
(Approximately 2 hours)
Foundations of Bourbon & Scotch (15–20 minutes)
The session opens with a concise orientation to both traditions:
• What defines Bourbon and Single Malt Scotch
• Grain composition and production philosophy
• The role of climate and maturation
• New American oak vs. used cask influence
• How regulation shapes identityGuests are introduced to the TasteIST tasting flow:
Observe · Breathe · Settle · Release · Trace
This framework provides structure while remaining accessible to both newcomers and experienced whisky enthusiasts.
Note: All whiskies are selected in advance and provided by the host in consultation with the TasteIST trainer.
Guided Comparative Tasting Flight (75–85 minutes)
Participants explore a curated lineup of four whiskies:
• Two Bourbons
• Two Single Malt ScotchesExpressions are presented in a structured sequence designed to highlight contrast in:
• Sweetness and grain character
• Oak impact and spice development
• Texture and mouthfeel
• Fruit vs. caramel-driven profiles
• Finish length and structureRather than isolating each whisky, the tasting emphasizes side-by-side comparison — allowing participants to clearly identify what distinguishes American and Scottish approaches.
Comparative Sensory Mapping (20–25 minutes)
Using a contrast-focused flavor card, guests map each whisky across key dimensions:
• Sweetness
• Spice intensity
• Oak influence
• Texture
• Finish characterPatterns begin to emerge — revealing not only category differences but also personal preferences within each style.
Preference Discovery & Closing Reflection (15–20 minutes)
Each participant selects the expression that resonated most and completes a Flavor Trace:
• First contact
• Mid-palate development
• Finish & aftertasteThe session concludes with shared reflections and practical guidance on:
• How to choose between Bourbon and Scotch
• What styles to explore next
• How to refine one’s tasting vocabulary
Workshop Flow & Guided Tasting Format
This workshop is typically delivered as a structured comparative tasting featuring four whiskies — two Bourbons and two Single Malt Scotches — over approximately two hours.
The number of expressions and session length may be adjusted based on audience experience, educational depth, or thematic focus.
Final bottle selection and session structure are confirmed in consultation with the host prior to the event.
Session Guidelines
A structured exploration of how two whisky traditions evolved from shared roots into distinct expressions by design.
Curious drinkers navigating between American and Scotch shelves
Bourbon drinkers interested in understanding Scotch structure
Scotch enthusiasts curious about American production philosophy
Corporate teams seeking interactive comparison-based tasting
Hosts looking for an engaging “debate-style” tasting experience
Guided tasting of four whiskies (2 Bourbon / 2 Single Malt Scotch)
Structured comparative framework (TasteIST Flow)
Flavor mapping and guided discussion
Educational context on production, maturation, and identity
Pre-session consultation regarding bottle selection
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Session Guidelines
This workshop emphasizes tasting and education rather than consumption. Participants are encouraged to engage mindfully and at their own pace.
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the session fee and are provided by the host unless otherwise agreed in advance. TasteIST does not sell or supply alcohol.
Whisky selections are professionally recommended according to the chosen workshop format and are intended solely for structured comparative tasting.
Food is not included unless arranged separately. For private venues, appropriate glassware and a suitable tasting environment are recommended.
Please inform the host in advance of any accessibility considerations, dietary restrictions, or special requirements.
Booking. Participation & Cancellation Policy
Workshops are available by advance booking and subject to availability. Confirmation, cancellation, and rescheduling terms are provided during the booking process.
Participants must be of legal drinking age in the workshop location and are responsible for consuming alcohol responsibly. By attending, participants acknowledge that alcohol consumption carries inherent risks and agree to participate at their own discretion.
TasteIST, its trainers, and affiliates assume no liability for injury, loss, or damages arising from alcohol consumption or participant actions before, during, or after the session.
All bookings and participation are subject to the TasteIST Privacy Policy and Website Terms of Use.
Workshop Policy & Alcohol Disclaimer
TasteIST workshops are educational tasting experiences. TasteIST does not sell, supply, or serve alcoholic beverages.
Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all alcoholic beverages are selected and provided by the host, in coordination with the TasteIST trainer prior to the session. Session fees cover the guided experience and educational content only.
Participants must be of legal drinking age in the workshop location and are responsible for consuming alcohol responsibly. TasteIST does not monitor or enforce consumption levels.
By attending a workshop, participants acknowledge that alcohol consumption carries inherent risks and agree to participate at their own discretion and responsibility. TasteIST, its trainers, and affiliates assume no liability for injury, loss, or damages arising from alcohol consumption or from participant actions before, during, or after the workshop.
Workshop bookings and participation are subject to the TasteIST Privacy Policy, Website Terms of Use, and applicable booking terms.
Session Environment
Appropriate glassware (tulip-shaped tasting glasses recommended) and a calm, well-lit environment enhance the educational experience. Food is not included unless arranged separately.
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Compare Bourbon to Scotch
Bourbon vs. Scotch
Bourbon and Scotch share historical roots, yet evolved along different paths — shaped by geography, regulation, climate, and cultural philosophy. The focus is not on declaring one superior, but on understanding how structural differences shape aroma, texture, sweetness, spice, and finish.
This workshop explores those differences through structured comparison. Rather than asking which style is “better,” participants discover how ingredients, distillation practices, oak treatment, and maturation environments influence sweetness, texture, spice, and finish.
Built around contrast, the session reveals how similar raw materials can produce profoundly different expressions — and how intentional production choices define character. Guests leave with greater clarity, vocabulary, and confidence when navigating both traditions.