Laddies:
It's that time again to gather around the wee dram and wend our way through the honey, heather, smoke and peat. The next 5 expressions will be even more wonderful than the last (although that Arran Cask Strength will be difficult to beat). The "Blind Tasting" format at Glenn's was a true winner, but if we get a load of newbies at the table, we'll revert to true form with more formal presentations.
I just had a great lunch with Matthew, Casey, Tim and Scott (2) at J&R in Whippany, where Casey admitted his first intro to single malts was fouled by a "graininess" that left his palatte gasping for water. A challenge like that was too much ignore and I scoured the wide selection at the bar for an "accessible" dram to change the tone. I thought a solid Speyside like the Cragganmore 12yr would be a just right approach, with its honey and oak being the right way to wash out any stigma of "graininess". But looking further I spied the Glenkinchie. An outstanding Lowland Scotch with oak and honey, it is best regarded for its "gentleness" and I that was the impression I was looking to leave. I was was always impressed with Glenkinchie's finish: long and wide, with heather and grass at the end that contrasted beautifully with the vanilla and butterscotch at the top. Together with the Romeo & Julieta Toro I had, it was the sort of introduction to great Scotch that makes grown men weep with anticipation (although let it be on the record that no one cried that day). We left the restaurant with 3 more converts to "whisky" and the beginnings of a new tradition at J&R.
Click over to the About Us... page and participate in the voting for the best date in February. We'll be adding 2 new features to the festival:
1.By popular demand, Ax Throwing. After being introduced by Bob D's crazy neighbor at the Pig Roast in September (why was the Big Wheel stationed in front of the target?), Ax Throwing promises to be the perfect apre-tasting activity. Bob F's yard is long and deep into the woods, and with the raging bonfire accompanyment and cigars, Laddie, ya hafta show fer this one, even if the wifey freezes you out for a week for ditching her on a Saturday eve.
2. Video: Zach, a long time good friend and distinguished young filmmaker, has offered to document the tasting for posting. Closeups of Mike tasting a Lagavulin will be the hit of the internet.