Whether you’re a whisky nerd, a curious cocktail bartender, or just getting to grips with peated versus sherried, these six books will help you better understand one of the world’s most complex spirits. From flavour breakdowns to production insights and cultural context, here’s what we’re reading this month.
1. Whisky: A Tasting Course – Eddie Ludlow
What the book is about:
A beautifully structured deep dive into tasting whisky, with clear explanations of aroma, palate, finish, and the factors that influence each. Ludlow offers guided tastings, distillery spotlights, and flavour profiles to help readers build a stronger nose and vocabulary.
Who should read it:
Anyone looking to sharpen their whisky tasting skills, especially bartenders preparing for guest education, whisky events, or simply wanting to train their palate more effectively.
Why you should read it:
This book breaks down the sensory side of whisky in a way that’s practical and easy to implement behind the bar. A great companion for your next flight training or brand tasting.
2. The Whisky Dictionary – Ian Wisniewski
What the book is about:
An A-to-Z guide of whisky terms, styles, regions, techniques, and distilleries from around the world. Think of it as your whisky glossary with real-world context, ideal for quick referencing or deep reading.
Who should read it:
Bartenders who find themselves Googling whisky terms mid-shift. Or those who want to feel more confident talking and upselling whisky with guests and brand reps alike.
Why you should read it:
It’s a compact but comprehensive source of knowledge, great for dipping in and out. Keep it on your back bar for impromptu staff training or to help decode that next new bottle.
3. A Sense of Place – Dave Broom
What the book is about:
Broom takes readers on a journey across Scotland’s whisky landscape, exploring how place, community, and environment shape what ends up in your glass. Part travelogue, part love letter to Scotch.
Who should read it:
Those who are fascinated by terroir, history, and how whisky fits into broader culture. It’s less about tasting notes and more about storytelling.
Why you should read it:
This book helps bartenders connect whisky to people and place, making it easier to share compelling stories with guests that go beyond ABV, barrel finish, or marketing hype.
4. Malt Whisky Yearbook 2025 – Ingvar Ronde
What the book is about:
Ingvar Ronde's annually updated guide packed with distillery profiles, industry insights, production details, and whisky trends. It’s like a global whisky briefing delivered once a year.
Who should read it:
Industry professionals, brand geeks, and bartenders who want to stay up to date with what’s happening in whisky.
Why you should read it:
It’s one of the most respected industry compendiums out there, with up-to-the-minute info and thoughtful essays. Keep it nearby for inspiration or a quick fact-check.
6. The Way of Whisky – Dave Broom
What the book is about:
A reflective and visually rich exploration of Japanese whisky culture. Broom delves into craftsmanship, philosophy, and the aesthetic behind Japan’s revered whisky scene.
Who should read it:
Bartenders curious about the cultural differences in whisky production. Or those who serve Japanese whisky and want to better represent its story to their guests.
Why you should read it:
It’s a meditative read that goes beyond production. For bartenders, it’s a reminder that technique is only one part of great drinks, the intention behind them matters too.
