Home tasting suggestions

I think that it works both ways, with our without a general theme. Depending on what's available of course. There is a merit, I believe, to serve different styles to make comparisons. Islay, sherry Heavy, bourbon, wine finished etc.

Glasses are important! Any tulip shaped will do but smaller tasting glasses specifically for scotch is my preferred method.

As for serving size... I'm with you all the way. I don't like to get drunk and I don't enjoy drunk people. I usually pour 5-6 different whiskies and always 2cl per glass. That is the session. Afterwards people are allowed refills if they want but then you've kinda set the tone with your initial pours.

I am all for the smaller serving size. Guests can always request a second or more serving. But too large a first serving could lead to either tipsy guests by the end of the evening, or unconsumed whisky that may have to be disposed of (a sad waste of goodness).

Everyone knows his own circle of friends the best, of course, but my impression of the world at large and my personal experience with my friends and is that those of us interested enough to be chatting here on Connosr and elsewhere are very exceptional. In contrast, most folks "interested in whisky" are happy to take a spin through your bottles while enjoying a nice social event, but they don't want a formal "sit down while I guide you through my collection sip by sip" experience. Even my whisky club isn't at all formal when we gather around a new bottle.

I say, put out the bottles and provide a little passive guidance on what's there. Maybe print out a single sheet briefly describing each bottle (and maybe one copied for each guest, if you really expect them to sit and focus), and then just let them have it at. If you write your own descriptions, make them fun. Offer yourself as the pour-master but don't be a Nazi about it. Dive deeper conversationally as your buddies' interest allows. Expect the whisky to occupy no more than 25% of the group's attention and chat. Have fun yourself. Ask for favorites and maybe ratings, but don't put much weight on it.

If you really want to have a more formal & dedicated experience, you gotta seek out the kindred souls who are similarly interested in that. They're few.

@OlJas I agree on the "They're few" comment. Remember if you get one person out of 10 that convert to be a whisky geek you have done your job. Let them have fun and you will too. If you expect the same attention and love toward the drams that we afianados put forward you will be disappointed. Some of your guests will be looking for a warm and entertaining evening. Some will look to an education about scotch. Enjoy them all!