Rating System Overview
Whiskey Rising developed its own version of a rating system to help readers determine whether or not a particular whiskey fits their needs. The ratings rely on six categories:
- Appearance – color and texture of the whiskey in the glass
- Nose – effects and notes based on smell prior to entering the mouth
- Palate – how the whiskey feels and tastes while in the mouth
- Finish – taste, feel, and duration as the whiskey goes down the throat
- Bottle – look of the bottle including shape and graphics
- Drinkability – how the whiskey drinks in a non-analytic setting
Consequently, based on the above six characteristics three ratings are assigned: a letter grade, a Facial Hair Rating and a recommended food pairing.
Letter Grades
- A+Â Â Â Â Â Â Perfect, a class of its own
- AÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Admirable, nearly perfect
- A-Â Â Â Â Â Â Exemplary, suitable for special occasions or daily
- B+Â Â Â Â Â Impressive, best of the daily sippers
- BÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Very Good
- B-Â Â Â Â Â Â Good
- C+Â Â Â Â Â Decent
- CÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Not offensive
- C-Â Â Â Â Â Shoddy
- D Â Â Â Â Â Â Lousy
- FÂ Â Â Â Â Â Avoid at all costs
Facial Hair Rating
This feature attempts to add unique perspective on the overall feel of the whiskey based on the below facial hair styles. While this may or may not be possible, wearing the recommended facial style likely will significantly enhance the overall experience of the particular whiskey.
Food Pairing Rating
A food pairing may be recommended in instances that absolutely deserve one. However, not every individual whiskey will warrant a food pairing. As a result, one will be issued under certain conditions and should it make sense.
Price of a Whiskey
Typically the price of the whiskey does not factor into the ratings. However, exceptions do exist. If the quality of the whiskey is either significantly above or below its price point, then Whiskey Rising reserves the right to share that opinion.
Final Word
The Whiskey Rising rating system serves to help the reader determine whether or not the whiskey fits their particular needs and situation. Therefore, a ‘buy’ or ‘do not buy’ recommendation will not be forthcoming since Whiskey Rising recognizes the personal choice in choosing a whiskey. Above all the rating system should provide enough data for the reader to make that determination for his or herself. However, please feel free to reach out using the contact form to discuss any particular whiskey or thought more in depth.