There’s something undeniably satisfying about lining up three—or five—glasses of whiskey, each representing a unique style, region, or cask type, and taking the time to taste them side by side. That’s the essence of a whiskey flight: a focused, curated exploration of flavor. And whether you’re introducing friends to your favorite bottles or just refining your own palate, hosting a whiskey flight at home can be simple, rewarding, and surprisingly affordable.

Start by choosing a theme. You can go regional (a flight of American bourbons vs. Scotch single malts), by grain (rye, wheat, malted barley), or even by age statement (try 8-, 12-, and 15-year-old versions from a single distillery if you can get your hands on them). For a more advanced experience, explore cask finishes—say, three whiskeys aged in sherry, port, and Madeira casks.

Keep your pours small—half an ounce to one ounce is plenty per glass. That way, you get to explore without overwhelming your senses or your guests. Use matching glasses if possible (Glencairn or small tulip glasses are ideal), and set them in the order they should be tasted—lightest to boldest.

It helps to provide some structure. Offer a simple tasting sheet or notebook so everyone can jot down notes on aroma, taste, finish, and preferences. Encourage guests to start by nosing the whiskey first, then taking a small sip, and finally adding a drop or two of water to see how the flavors evolve.

Snacks are more than welcome—and practical. Neutral palate cleansers like water crackers, sliced apples, or unsalted nuts keep taste buds sharp between pours. If you’re going all out, consider food pairings that echo the flight’s theme: smoked almonds with Islay Scotch, cheddar with rye, or dark chocolate with sherried single malts.

To keep costs in check, shop smart. Look for mini bottles or sample packs, especially from brands like Glenfiddich, Woodford Reserve, or Nikka, which often offer tasting-size sets. And before purchasing your bottles or gear, consider using a cashback app like Rakuten or Ibotta—many liquor stores and kitchen retailers are eligible for rewards. If you’re shopping for gift cards to places like Total Wine, you can even earn instant cashback through Fluz gift cards, helping you stretch your budget while stocking your bar.