Types of Whiskey Explained: Find Your Perfect Match
Whiskey is one of the most celebrated spirits, and with so many different flavor profiles available, there’s a pour for every beverage enthusiast. Whether it’s your first time delving into the world of whiskey, or you’re an experienced connoisseur, it’s important to know how these different flavor profiles can change or enhance your dining experience.
Today, we’ll take a closer look at some of the major whiskey varieties, their different flavor profiles, which varieties pair well with certain meals, and why Carversteak, located on the beautiful lively Las Vegas Strip, has become a leading destination for diners seeking out an elevated and refined evening out.
What Are the Different Types of Whiskey?
Whiskey comes in different variations, creating unique flavors that pair incredibly well with certain dishes like steak and other meats. Whiskey is a one-of-a-kind beverage because each type of whiskey is crafted using a specific production method. That method depends on the region, the craftsman, and the age of the refinement process. This is what helps develop its flavor. You’ll also find that while there are different types of whiskey, even within the same type, its geographic origin can also influence the flavor profile of the whiskey overall.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of whiskey you’ll find available.
Tennessee Whiskey
Known for its smooth and hinted sweet flavor profile, this is a type of whiskey that’s well loved across the nation. Many will tell you that it falls under traditional American whisky, but others will say that Tennessee whiskey is a class all on its own.
A big part of the production process of Tennessee whiskey is that the spirit is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before it goes through the aging process. This is an extra filtration step known as the Lincoln County Process. Some popular brands you’ll recognize with this pour are Jack Daniel’s. Flavor profiles include oak, caramel, and vanilla, and lend well to that sweet, southern flavor spectrum.
Scotch Whiskey
This pour originates from Scotland and is known for its regional diversity and complex nature. Scotch undergoes an aging process that happens in oak barrels for at least 3 years before it’s ready.
The aging process will determine the type of Scotch created. For example, single malt Scotch is made from 100% malted barley, and it happens at a single distillery. Blended Scotch, on the other hand, is a mixture of grain and malt whiskeys that come from several distilleries.
You’ll find that the flavor profile of Scotch is distinct yet still diverse. Depending on the region, you might find notes of a fruity or floral taste, while others might have a more smoky flavor profile, with hints of honey and even dried fruit.
Single Malt Whiskey
While many people will think of Scotch whiskey when it comes to single malt, the reality is single malt whiskey is not regional and comes from a number of countries. For example, you’ll find various American single malt labels. Across the board, however, single malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley at a single distillery. Because all distilleries are unique, the flavor profiles of each change, depending on the craftsmanship as well.
Rye Whiskey
Known for its iconic spicy and bold flavor, rye whiskey is made from rye grains and is a primary component in popular cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans.
There’s also a level of diversity with rye whiskey, and you’ll find flavors including cinnamon, pepper, and a somewhat dry finish. Much like American Spirits and Scotch, regional differences can make a big impact on the flavor profile.
Japanese Whiskey
Focused on the elegant nature of Japanese culture, you’ll find that this pour is one of the most unique, subtle, and well loved pours across the globe. It has a very delicate flavor and is often accompanied by hints of honey and citrus, along with subtle notes that give it a smoky flavor profile. Japanese whisky may not be for everyone, but it’s certainly a delicacy that cannot be ignored for its elegant and elevated flavor profile.
Which Whiskey Is Right for Me?
Choosing the right whiskey really depends on what your flavor preferences are. However, your experience level can also play a part.
If you’re a beginner whiskey drinker, you should start off with something smooth and approachable. Some popular pours include bourbon like Maker’s Mark or Jameson, an Irish whiskey.
If you prefer something a little sweeter, Tennessee whiskey like Jack Daniel’s is an especially popular pour. Macallan 12 is a type of sherry cask finished Scotch that also has a hint of sweetness, making it more palatable to beginning whiskey drinkers.
There are also smoky and peaty flavor profiles that are found in pours like Laphroaig, an Islay Scotch. The Japanese whiskey, Yoichi, is also known for its peated flavor as well.
If you’re someone who enjoys the diverse flavor profiles of whiskey and considers yourself somewhat of a connoisseur, then you’re sure to enjoy rare single malts, bourbons, or aged Japanese whiskeys. These pours give you a feel for bold and delicate flavors that really allow you to explore and widen your flavor palette.
How Does Whiskey Pair With Food?
Because of the diverse flavors offered through whiskey, finding the right pour to pair with the right dish can create a one of a kind dining experience that really elevates the flavor of the food and the whiskey. The right pairing can truly make an indescribable meal, the kind that is hard to duplicate.
It’s important to note that there are select foods that are traditionally paired with whiskeys. For example, cheeses like aged cheddar pair really well with bourbon, while blue cheese pairs really well with peaty Scotch flavors.
Meats, including smoked brisket and steak pair really well with the bold flavors you’ll find with Tennessee whiskey or a high proof bourbon.
Seafood can also be paired really well with specific types of whiskey. For example, the crisp and fresh flavors of oysters pair great with briny Islay Scotch.
It’s not just meals that pair really well with whiskey, either; desserts do, too. For example, dark chocolate pairs incredibly well with rye whiskey because the two flavors complement each other nicely, enhancing the flavor profiles of each. The smooth and rich flavors of milk chocolate also do a really good job blending with the delicate and somewhat muted notes of Japanese whiskey.
If you’re indulging in popular desserts like crème brûlée or pecan pie, pair them with pours like sherry cask Scotch and rye whiskey, respectively. These dishes provide bold flavors and need a complementary yet equally bold flavor to enhance the experience.
Overall, you’ll want to pair your meal or dessert with a whisky that doesn’t overpower the flavors of your meal, but instead brings out the toned-down, muted flavors in a dish.
Why Is Our Whiskey Selection the Best?
At Carversteak, we know steak and we know whiskey. Our thoughtfully crafted menu of elevated American dishes, and classic cuts of steak, pair incredibly well with our thoughtfully curated lineup of whiskeys.
We have expertly chosen brands that define the unique flavor profiles you’ll only find in top quality whiskey pours. From limited edition releases to premium whiskeys, you’ll have the chance to experience spirits that are perfectly paired with our quality crafted steaks and other classic American dishes. Find out more when you explore our full menu.
Knowledgeable Staff
While anyone can carry a selection of popular whiskeys and refined flavors, nothing compares to the expertise of connoisseurs who understand how to enhance a meal with the right whiskey pour.
Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu, help you explore our whiskey selection, and provide recommendations that suit your personal preferences and align with the unique flavors of your dish.
What’s Our Whiskey Selection?
We’re proud to carry a diverse selection of whiskey brands, both the brands you love, and those that might be new to you. We also proudly offer our very own Carversteak Maker’s Mark Private Selection.
Carversteak’s very own Francesco Lafranconi, VP of Beverage & Hospitality Culture for Carver Road Hospitality, was privileged to be welcomed into the Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.
There, he created a premium custom whiskey selection for Carversteak exclusively. This Private Selection pairs the one of a kind flavor profile of Maker’s Mark with distinct flavors offered through the input and expertise of Lafranconi.
You can learn more about our Carversteak Maker’s Mark Private Selection when you explore our whiskey guide, or call to reserve your table for your next special occasion or elegant evening out.
In addition to our Maker’s Mark Private Selection, we also offer custom whiskeys from M&R Ambrato Vermouth, Stambecco Amaro, and Botanika Angelica.
The Art of Dry-Aging: How We Perfect Our Steaks
What Is Dry-Aging?
Dry-aging is a globally respected process where large cuts of meat are cut, stored or hung, and aged anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months before they are turned into steaks.
This is a process that dates back hundreds of years, even as far back as the Renaissance period. This process not only enhances the flavor of meat, but it’s also a way that communities used to preserve meat for months after an animal was butchered, so as not to let the meat go to waste.
Today, dry-aged steaks offer such a unique and rich flavor that will improve your overall dining experience. It’s why here at Carversteak, we offer the finest cuts, including cuts that have undergone the dry-aging process. Experience these delectable flavors for yourself when you book your table today.
How Does Dry-Aging Improve a Steak?
Dry-aging meat can improve its overall flavor by enhancing different factors of the cut. When it comes to dry-aged steaks, you’ll find that they’re improved in three major ways:
- Enhanced flavor: The flavor of a dry-aged steak is richer, with an almost nutty and buttery taste that simply melts in your mouth. Over time, natural enzymes in the steak break down the muscle fibers, which helps release the amino acids that improve the quality of the steak.
- Tenderness: You’ll find that a dry-aged steak is incredibly tender. Those same enzymes that break down during the dry-aging process also help to soften the meat, giving it a much tastier, softer bite.
- Intense textures: While the inside of the steak is soft and tender, you’ll find that the natural flavor of the beef becomes more concentrated, and the outer layer develops a crust as a result. This crust is called the pellicle. The crust is often cut away before cooking, leaving behind the rich flavor of the steak.
How Long Do We Age Our Steaks?
The dry-aging process can differ from person to person or establishment to establishment. Here at Carversteak, our dry-aging process has been perfectly fine tuned to create only the most flavorful cuts of steak available.
We age our dry steaks over a period of weeks in a controlled environment to help them achieve the pinnacle of tenderness and flavor.
Once the dry-aging process is complete, we serve fresh cuts alongside flavorful side dishes and perfectly paired drinks so that you can enjoy an elevated dining experience.
Why Choose Dry-Aged Over Regular Steak?
Steaks offer an incredible dining experience, and can be a great way to enjoy the unique flavors that quality steak cuts are known for. If you are looking for a rich and nutty profile in a steak, our dry-aged cuts will live up to your expectations.
That doesn’t mean dry-aged steaks take away from the incredible flavors of freshly cut steaks, or quality cuts like Wagyu steaks. It simply means you get to enjoy a flavor that is unique to its curation process.
If you’re a steak lover, it’s a must that you experience the rich taste only a dry-aged steak can provide. View our full menu to explore more about our steak options, cuts, and other flavorful dishes you can enjoy.
Is Dry-Aged Beef Safe?
A common misconception about dry-aged beef is that allowing it to sit out and go through the drying process means the formation of harmful bacteria or mold. When done correctly, dry-aged beef is incredibly safe to consume.
Dry-aged beef has to be stored in a controlled environment where moisture levels, humidity levels, and temperature are monitored closely. The ideal temperature for dry-aging steak ranges from 32° and 39° F. Anything above 40° F can lead to spoilage. This temperature range also helps to control humidity and moisture levels.
Experience Dry-Aged Steak at Carversteak
At Carversteak, we know what it means to provide quality dry-aged meats to help you experience a dinner date or special evening out. Our dry-aged steaks are made from the finest cuts, and undergo a quality controlled dry-aging process that brings to life the flavor and tenderness only a dry-aged steak can offer.
You can learn more about our steaks, different cuts, and the dry-aging process when you read our steak guide.
Experience these unique flavors for yourself when you book your reservation at Carversteak. Reserve your event today, or reach out to our team to book a special dinner reservation at our renowned steakhouse.
Host Your Bachelorette Party In Las Vegas With Carversteak
The best bachelorette parties in Las Vegas start with an elevated dining experience that will set the tone for your celebration. Las Vegas, Nevada is the nation’s top destination for planning the perfect bachelorette party to celebrate the next season of your life. The iconic Las Vegas Strip is home to high-end restaurants, like Carversteak, countless social activities your whole party will love, and nearby natural landmarks, like Red Rock Canyon, Lake Mead, and others.
When it’s time to host the perfect bachelorette dinner party your whole group will love, turn to Carversteak. Our experienced staff and dedicated team are here to help you plan a bachelorette party you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Book your Las Vegas bachelorette party today!
How To Plan the Perfect Bachelorette Party Dinner in Las Vegas
Celebrate this next chapter in your life by planning the best bachelorette dinner party in Las Vegas when you book your reservation at Carversteak, the best steakhouse on the Strip.
Located in Resorts World Las Vegas, we are the property’s exclusive steakhouse. We’re proud to offer top quality dining options for all our guests. At Carversteak, you’ll find perfectly flavored steaks, classic seafood dishes, and alternative options, including vegan dishes.
Complementing our fine dining options are global flavors through our dynamic beverage program. With pours for every preference, you can expect a premier dining experience that encapsulates luxury living in Las Vegas.
What Is the Best Restaurant for a Las Vegas Bachelorette Party Dinner?
Across the Strip and throughout the nation, Carversteak has built a nationally recognized reputation for offering elevated dining experiences perfect for your life’s most memorable events.
We’re proud to help you host your bachelorette dinner party, where you can enjoy bold flavors, the company of your friends and family, and an evening out on the Las Vegas Strip you won’t forget.
Our venue features an expansive bar and lounge area. Meanwhile, our main dining hall beckons you in for an upscale evening out, while our outdoor bar and lounge gardens give you front row views of the Las Vegas Strip. Our VIP and private lounge areas also offer an intimate appeal if you’re looking to host a smaller sized party.
Experience Quality Crafted Menus and Bold Flavors
When you dine at Carversteak, you’ll enjoy the masterfully crafted menu put together by Executive Chef Daniel Ontiveros. Pair up your meal with house beverages and one-of-a-kind pours from Master Mixologist Francesco Lafranconi. Our dynamic beverage program features everything from an extensive wine list to a carefully curated whiskey collection to today’s most popular cocktails. Explore our drink menu to discover our bold flavors.
From shareable appetizers to specially paired dishes and drinks, you’ll experience luxury dining that will help elevate your bachelorette party.
How To Plan the Perfect Bachelorette Party Dinner at Carversteak
The best part about planning your perfect bachelorette party at Carversteak is that we help you manage all the details. We make it easy for you to book online, and reserve the event package you’re looking for. Whether you want to reserve a room, or are looking for a private hall to host your special night in, we’ve got you covered.
Between our indoor and outdoor event spaces, we can accommodate anywhere from 15 to 500 guests. Your special event can include a dedicated professional events team that will help you bring your bachelorette party vision to life.
Ask about our all inclusive packages, complete with carefully chef-curated menus customized to your needs, our premium bar selection, and our unique PDR experiences. These experiences include a Knife Room, a Whiskey Room, and our Strip-facing Garden Patio.
Get in touch with our events team to determine if a private dining hall or main floor seating is the best option for your bachelorette party.
Why Choose Carversteak for a Bachelorette Dinner Party?
Providing an elevated dining experience is what we do best. You’ll find this with our exceptional chef-curated menu, which features dry aged American steak from some of the nation’s top artisan producers. We also proudly serve up Japanese certified Wagyu steak, and vegan options to accommodate all members of your party.
While we let our menu speak for itself, we know you’ll fall in love with our inviting atmosphere that offers a chic, lively ambiance. Not to mention, our dining area makes for the perfect Instagram worthy backdrop.
Features including our audio and video system help bring our dining space to life. Thanks to our 70-foot LCD backbar and fully programmable lighting, you’ll get to experience an elevated club-like ambiance that exemplifies sophistication — the perfect touch every Las Vegas bachelorette party needs.
Dine like the absolute queen you are during your bachelorette party when you ask about our private dining and VIP experiences.
Set the Tone for a Celebratory Night Out
Our elevated ambiance will also give way to an exceptional evening out, thanks to our VIP lounge, which offers a laid back feel — the perfect place to kick back before you start your evening.
Whether you’re at the dining table or the bar, you’ll be immersed in an elevated sensory experience that defines what it means to dine at the best restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip. Between our North Patio, South Patio, Center Bar Patio, and Main Dining Hall, we’re ready to help you find the right vibe to define your evening.
Book Your Bachelorette Party Dinner at Carversteak
At Carversteak in Las Vegas, we’re here to help you enjoy an elevated bachelorette party by providing a premier dinner party that embodies what it means to celebrate in style. Want to learn more about creating the perfect dining experience with your favorite people? Get in touch with our events team to plan your special night out.