Help differentiating distinct flavors

Also, what can I do to pick up more flavors when i sample? Do I just need more samplings/experience or is there some process for training my palate. Thanks for your expert input.

@Maltmark Hi, I'd definitely suggest sampling more - also, it's just a lot of fun! It's like drinking wine (in a sense) that your nose has to adjust and be accustomed to handling the alcohol, and also just to gain a familarity with the different flavors and aromas. I've also found that, after doing high-proof or cask-strength spirits for a while, I need a bit of time off before going back to something around 40 or 43%, or I risk really missing it. I remember reading some of the notes on Whiskyfun or other sites and thinking that I was just missing a lot, but, with time, more drams, and focus, I felt like I was pulling out about as much as one could reasonably do. Emphasizing it any more than that would ruin some of the fun in periodic tasting notes to me. Ultimately, it's just about enjoying the stuff, but if you're keen on finding differences and specific notes, practice and experience is the best remedy.

Hi Maltmark

with practice comes experience - you have to build up your own flavourlibrary inyour head ; don't rush it - your sense of smell and taste will develop over time and it is a lot if fun to explore all the different nuances in quality spirits. Welcome to the journey - and a happy new year.

Thanks for the encouragement.

@numen Nice posting, thank you. And happy new year to all of you!