Practical Science for You Dedicated Spirit Lovers
Background: In 2012, we at Arsilica, Inc. began posting a series of “Truth or Myth” articles to benefit serious spirits drinkers and collectors and the response was overwhelmingly positive. During our quest for an ultimate spirit glass we became deeply involved in sensory science and discovered how little spirits drinkers actually know about science and its direct relationship to the everyday world we live in. Ignoring science creates and perpetuates myth.
The gap between perceived knowledge and science is a minefield of misinformation destructive to true understanding and enjoyment of all spirits from whiskey to vodka. The teachers and custodians of knowledge in the spirits industry are its leaders, professional associations, brand ambassadors, critics, authors, professional educators, certifiers, and bloggers often fail to embrace scientific fact, validating myth as truth.
What can be done? Quality Education. We love the spirits industry and are committed to fighting misinformation by equipping all who are interested with the basic knowledge to become accomplished, confident, and proficient critical evaluators. Hard-earned bucks purchase those special bottles. Without a useful working knowledge, it’s impossible to avoid costly mistakes. Learn to rely on your own senses and judgement and true science. Also read our peer reviewed research report
Announcing the NEAT Spirits Evaluation Academy: The week of July 27, 2020, we will post the first of ten weekly presentations on practical application of science to nosing, tasting, and evaluation of spirits containing useful information and exposing deceiving marketing practices.
Our Goals: (1) Provide information to give the consumer, brand ambassador, industry executive and blogger in the spirits world a basic understanding of aroma detection and evaluation, (2) Explode myth and misconceptions about aromas and diagnostics which sadly have become accepted matter of fact, yet have no scientific truth, (3) Improve spirits appreciation through knowledge, lively discussion and sharing constructive contributions.
What to expect: Discussions on all matters relating to nosing, tasting, and evaluating spirits from a scientific and truthful perspective. There are no sacred grounds; twisted marketing and myth are our sworn enemies. As a blog, we will entertain comments, dissention, and promote dialogue in the interest of better understanding.
Rules of Engagement: It’s about spirits diagnosis, not a forum for expounding on the virtues or faults of specific brands. Political discussion, brand bashing, people bashing, slander, and inappropriate comments will be will not be tolerated.
Its free, no requirements to view content or comment, no personal information required, just knowledge and interaction. If you are serious about spirits of any kind, you will want to take part.