a wee dram # 5

ISSUE 5

DRAMA Wee

Whisky, software and sailingRichard Urquhart tells us why whiskyis in his blood

Perfect giftsIdeal present ideas for a real whisky lover

WhiskEThe best whisky apps,blogs and forums

WINTER 2011/2012

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4 NEWSThe latest from the world of whisky.

13 WHISKEA Wee DRAM’s low-down on theSmartphone/tablet apps that are well worth a nose.

16 INTERVIEWWe talked to Richard Urquhart.

18 WHISKY SPEED TASTING FESTIVALA collection of pictures from our recent events.

21 COCKTAILS Winter warming cocktails.

23 WHAT’S ONWho’s drinking what.

24 WHISKY BARS We check out Scotland’s newest whisky bar.

27 BARTENDERS CHOICEWho’s drinking what.

28 PERFECT GIFTSIdeal present ideas for the real whisky lover.

30 TASTING NOTES

CONTENTS

Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, Glasgow G3 8ND. Telephone: 0141 221 6965 Email: [email protected]

A Wee DRAM is published by Media World Ltd.

The publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability forerrors/omissions. Any transparencies or artwork will be accepted atowner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may bereproduced in any form without the written consent of the copyrightholder and publisher, application for which should be made to the

publisher. Articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflectthe opinions of the publishers.

© Media World Limited 2011 ISSN No 1470-2428.

• Editor Susan Young • Assistant Editor Jason Caddy • Sales Martin Cassidy• Production Manager Carol Anderson

Welcome to the Winter edition of theWee DRAM. In this month’s editionwe take a look at some tasty winter

warming whisky cocktails, and someinteresting gift ideas. There’s also a Q&A withRichard Urquhart from Gordon &MacPhailwho comes from a tradition of Scotchwhisky. He is one of the next generation ofUrquharts that will eventually run thecompany, one of Scotland’s renownedwhisky specialists.

We’ve also got the latest pictures from our‘For the love of whisky… ‘ speed tastingevents which took place at Oran Mor inNovember. There will be more in the comingmonths, in Edinburgh too. Look out fordetails on itison.

Ever wondered what the difference isbetween a blended malt and a single grain

whisky? We give you some examples ofwhisky in each of the five categories thatmake up the whisky market.

Check out Scotland’s newest whisky bar,and take a look at the winner of theGlenmorangie Whisky Bar of the year. Seeour feature on page 24.

I am also delighted to reveal that I havejust been made a ‘Keeper of the Quaich’ agreat honour. I hope you enjoy the WeeDRAM and that you learn a ‘wee’ bit moreabout Scotch whisky.

sláinteSusan Young Editor

Congratulations toElaine Scott of theBen Nevis in Glasgow.The pub, an awardwinning whisky pub,has also beennominated for ‘Venueof the year’ in theScots TraditionalMusic Awards. TheBen Nevis, as well asbeing famous for itswhisky, is also wellknown for its

traditional music sessions. The pub plays hosts tosessions on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.The winning venue will be revealed at an awardsceremony in Perth in December. Good luck!

WE L COM E


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Eight teams of disabledand non-disabled peoplespent one of the last

summer weekends, which intrue Scottish style proved to be a wash-out, on what is the ultimate challenge;conquering the UK’s highestpeak Ben Nevis.

The Bowmore Ben NevisChallenge was theculmination of months oftraining and preparation forthe teams who were guidedby ex-SAS officer and TVPresenter Ken Hames. Theleaders, seven of whom used specially designedwheelchairs, had to navigateand direct their team to thesummit and in the processhelped raise vital funds for

2011 BOWMORE BEN NEVIS CHALLENGE COMPLETESCapability Scotland.

Despite the appallingweather with almost constantrain and, at times, zerovisibility the teams workedtheir way across treacherousterrain, avoiding sheer dropsand contending with largeboulders and fences.

The first team to the top wasled by Rosie Smith (24) fromNitshill in Glasgow. She andher team ‘Rosie’s Runners’made the summit in just 5hours and 20 minutes. ‘Despitehaving attempted this before,I was still nervous’ said Rosie,‘but I was determined to makeit to the top this time, havinghad to turn back before. I’mecstatic to have got to thesummit.’

Andy Steen (45) fromGourock and his team ‘WeWant To Go Hames’ was secondto the summit. He commented:“How many people can saythey’ve been up Ben Nevis?I’ve joined an elite club! I hopethis event will help dispel themyth that sometimes existsthat disabled people need tobe wrapped in cotton wool!”

Cara Laing, Bowmore BrandManager said:”Bowmore hasalways been a champion ofnature and the great outdoorsso we were delighted to be supporting CapabilityScotland and the teams whotook on the ultimate physicaland mental challenge for bothnon disabled and disabledpeople.”

Visit The World’s Largest Collection of Scotch WhiskyWinter at The Scotch

Whisky Experience St Andrew’s Day

Special Scotch Whisky Training School – 22 Nov

Free Entry on 3 dates with our St Andrew’s Day voucher

ChristmasUnique Whisky Gifts and Vouchers for

our Tour and Amber Restaurant Hogmanay

Meet the distillers at our Distillers’Fair on 29 & 30 Dec

Burns Special Scotch Whisky Training

School – 24 Jan

WWW.SCOTCHWHISKYEXPERIENCE.CO.UK • NEXT TO EDINBURGH CASTLE

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Use your phone to scanthe code to find out

more about our events

Use your phone to scanthe code to buy

vouchers or gifts online

www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.ukwww.scotchwhiskyshop.co.uk

0131 220 0441


Whyte & Mackay has won theWhisky Magazine’s Innovatorof the Year Award for itsrecreation of a 100-year-oldwhisky left under theAntarctic ice by famousexplorer Ernest Shackleton.

Described as the “whisky story of the century”, the so-calledShackleton replica – properly knownas Mackinlay’s – was four years inthe making by the time the whiskywas found, excavated, shipped toScotland and finally reproduced.

Whyte & Mackay’s master

blender Richard Paterson picked upthe award at the ceremony. He said,“I am absolutely delighted. This hasbeen the highlight of my 40 yearcareer to date in whisky, but wouldnot have been possible without theefforts of a vast team of people bothin and outside the company.

“But my biggest thanks go tothe Antarctic Heritage Trust, basedin New Zealand, who found thewhisky and subsequently helped us get some bottles back toScotland. We have created a whiskywhich gives people a real taste of

the past.”Paterson spent eight weeks

marrying and blending a range ofmalts together to recreate the 100year old whisky.

The bottle is now on sale for£100, with 5% from every salebeing donated back to the AntarcticHeritage Trust. With 50,000 bottlesbeing produced, it is hoped that theTrust will receive £250,000.

National Geographic alsorecorded an exclusive documentaryabout the whole process which isdue to air at the end of this year.

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2011 BOWMORE BEN NEVIS CHALLENGE COMPLETES

JOHN DICKIE

n The Black Grousewhisky will launch a newsmokier variant calledthe Alpha Edition nextyear. The companydescribes The BlackGrouse - Alpha Edition as a “richer, smokierexpression” of The BlackGrouse. Helen Potter,innovations manager forThe Famous Grouse, said,“On first taste it is rich and sweet, beforelayers of smoke revealthemselves. We believewe have createdsomething truly specialwhich will appeal toScotch whisky, bourbonand rum spirit drinkerskeen to explore a richer,fuller version of The BlackGrouse.”n GlenDronach Distilleryhas been selected byDonald Trump - the manwith the worst hair for awet and windy Scottishday - to supply thecommemorative 25-year-old single malt that willmark the opening nextsummer of his £750million golf complex onthe Menie Estate inAberdeenshire.

The rare whiskychosen for the officialTrump International GolfLinks has been hand-selected by MasterDistiller, Billy Walker,from the thousands of top-quality single casks maturing atG l e n D r o n a c h ’ swarehouses at Forgue,near Huntly. It will beknown, quite simply, as“Trump Scotland SingleMalt Scotch Whisky”.GlenDronach, founded in1826, will initially supply500 bottles to celebratethe grand opening.

Whisky distilleries the length andbreadth of Scotland have signed up totake part in a fledgling drinks festival,to be held next summer. A combined14 distilleries and brands havesignalled their intention to attend theSpirit of Stirling Whisky Festival,planned for the city’s Albert Halls on 12May 2012. AnCnoc, Arran, Balblair,Glenfarclas, Glenglassaugh, Glengoyne,Old Pulteney, Bruichladdich, Tomatin,Glen Garioch, Auchentoshan,Bowmore, Dalmore and Jura will all be

involved, organisers have revealed. The showcase is the brainchild of

local businessmen Stuart Campbell andCameron McCann. General admissiontickets to the Spirit of Stirling WhiskyFestival have been priced at £20 andcan be purchased from either the EalainGallery, the Albert Halls (01786 473544) or Abbey Antiques, on Stirling’sFriars Street (01786 447 840).For more information visitwww.spiritofstirlingwhiskyfestival.co.uk

One of thechallengeteams.

100 YEAR OLD WHISKY WINS AWARDS


NE WSn Ardbeg Alligator, wasunveiled in Septemer. Thislimited edition malt is theresult of years ofexperimentation by theArdbeg Distillery and itsteam headed up by Dr. BillLumsden,.

It’s so called because ofthe cask it is stored in whichhave been subjected to“Alligator Charring” themethod of charring (orburning) the inside of oakcasks before they are filledwith spirit. The burnt woodstaves take on theappearance of an alligator’sscales, hence the name. Theheart of Alligator is spiritmatured in ‘Level 4’ casks -the most intense type ofcharring possible.

Dr Bill commented,“Extremely fierce charringof the casks has impartedadditional smoky, barbecueflavours, giving ArdbegAlligator a unique spicy bitethat’ll catch you unawares.”

Ardbeg Alligator hasbeen bottled at 51.2% ABVand as with all Ardbegs isnon chill-filtered for extratexture and mouth-feel. Itcosts around £65 a bottleand is available in all goodwhisky retailers.

The first ever anCnoc HighlandSingle Malt Scotch Whisky andGlasgow Print Studio artist

competition, Northland, has namedartist Christine Leathem’slithograph ‘Untitled’ as it’s winningsubmission, after a judging processwith renowned artist andplaywright John Byrne.

The competition put Scotland’sartists to the test over severalmonths, calling for those workingactively within the Print Studio todevelop their own distinctive worksinspired by the ‘black hill’ andstunning Highland scenery atKnockdhu Distillery, where anCnocis created.

Christine’s vivid black and whitework caught the judge’s eyeamongst both photographic andabstract interpretations of the brief.The romantic lithograph uses the

rolling hill as a frame for idealisedimagery beneath. The artist prizeincludes a unique visit to theanCnoc distillery, to gain furtherinspiration from the surroundinglandscape, and a £500 cash prize.

Christine commented, “Winningthe prize took me completely bysurprise; it was a real confidenceboost which has encouraged me tokeep pushing my own work andkeep creating. I am now lookingforward to visiting the distillery!”

John Byrne commented: “I’m soimpressed with the working spacein the building and especially theamount of talent bursting throughthe walls. Every piece of work was atsuch a high standard I found it hardto choose just one.”

For further information visitwww.ancnoc.comwww.ancnoc.comand www.gpsart.co.uk.

Glasgow based artist scoops prize atinaugural anCnoc visual art competition

Drambuie has introduceda brand new product tothe UK market - the firstinto the UK in a decade -Drambuie 15. It is aconnoisseurs expressionof Drambuie, drawn fromthe company’s finestselection of 15 Year OldSpeyside Malts whichhave been selected fortheir soft, complexfragrance and flavour. It is

hoped that Drambuie 15will appeal to existingDrambuie customerstrading up and new maltwhisky experimenters.

Jonathan Brown, BrandHeritage Director,Drambuie Liqueur Co.commented, “WhileDrambuie is stretching itsconsumer appeal beyondthe traditional festiveseason with our range

of long drink recipes and Rusty Nail inspiredcocktail serves, Christmasremains an essentialfocus for Drambuie.Drambuie 15 strengthensthe brand as a crediblescotch alternative forwhisky drinkers and ourposition as a ScotchWhisky Liqueur not aliqueur made withwhiskies.”

DRAMBUIE LAUNCHES FIRST NEW PRODUCTINTO THE UK FOR TEN YEARS

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THE BENRIACHSINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

ESTABLISHED IN 1898 AND LOCATED IN THE ‘HEART OF SPEYSIDE’, THE BENRIACH

DISTILLERY BECAME INDEPENDENT IN 2004. PREVIOUSLY UNDISCOVERED, THE DISTILLERY

IS NOW ENJOYING A NEW LEASE OF LIFE.

With access to an impressive inventory of maturing whiskies dating back as far as 1966,

our range of expressions is varied both in terms of age and style, including ‘classic Speyside’,

special ‘fi nishes’, heavily peated BenRiach and single cask vintage bottlings.

www.benriachdistillery.co.ukUNLOCK THE SECRETS


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This winter, Bowmore,the first Islay Single Malt whisky, hascollaborated withwhisky writer and Islayresident, Martine Nouet,known as ‘The Queen ofthe Still’ to create theIslay Taste Map. The map,which is the first of itskind, is the ideal guide tothe complex and veryvaried characters of Islay’seight magical distilleries:Ardbeg, Bruichladdich,Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila,Kilchoman, Lagavulin,Laphroaig and Bowmore.Not only is it useful tobartenders but consumerstoo can check it out online.

The map uses colour-coordinated taste profilesto illustrate how each ofthe elements is reflected inthe whiskies from eachdistillery. From the peatyand mossy cues of EARTH;the floral notes of heatherand sweet meadow in AIR;the smoke, bonfires andburnt wood of FIRE; to theocean air, sea salt and wetsand of WATER – each

distillery has a unique tasteprofile. The map alsoexplains how the whiskiestaste indoors and out

alongside a characterprofile and tasting notes.

To download the mapvisit www.bowmore.com

n Sick of all the usualhaunts and faces thatevery weekend seems tothrow up? How aboutheading along to TheDalmore Distillery toeyeball its brand new£1m Visitor Experience?The distillery, 20 milesnorth of Inverness, hasput an unorthodox spinon traditional distillerytours. Scottishcraftsmanship is inevidence in the design,from a carved oakboardroom table inlaidwith the solid silver 12-point stag’s head whichappears on all bottles ofDalmore, to the speciallydesigned bottle displaycases, and the“bloodline”, a sparklingglass mosaic. Otherfeatures include hiddendoors, with a secretentrance from the shopthrough to the AlchemyRoom where a circular

tasting table is internallyilluminated. At the heartof the Experience is theCustodians’ Loungewhere you can discussyour love of whisky overa glass of Dalmore.

The Experience takesyou on a sensory journeywhere they can embracethe unique atmosphere,sounds and smells of TheDalmore, explains IanMackay, DalmoreDistillery Manager, “Allthe sights, sounds andsmells of the Dalmore’sdistilling process havebeen carefully brought tolife in this one of a kinddistillery tour. Not onlythat, but we’ve takengreat care to ensure thatall of our visitors cansavour a dram in theluxurious comfort of ourCustodians’ Lounge.”

THERE’S GOOD NEWS on the whisky front in amongst what seems to beinterminable economic doom and gloom. Recent Scotch Whisky Associationexports statistics show that sales in Asia rose by 33% while sales increased inCentral and South America too. While the USA also proved popular spot fordrinking our national drink. MSP and Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, RichardLochhead, said, “It is clear whisky is leading the way with another record year -outstripping all trends and reaching new markets each year. We have greatambition for exports from Scotland. Other industries should be learning from thelong term strategy and continuing investment of the Scotch Whisky industry.”

If you want to buy a very special bottle ofwhisky – then the Glen Garioch 1986could be for you. Twenty five years ofpatience have been rewarded with therelease of Glen Garioch’s latest smallbatch vintage expression, the GlenGarioch 1986. It costs £125 from selectedspecialist retailers, it’s a special dramthat will be an excellent addition to anycollector ’s range.

John Mullen, Glen Garioch brandmanager, said, “This is the fifth additionto our vintage range but it is one of themost exclusive to-date.”

“The light touch of old Glen Gariochsmokiness coupled with a blend of cream,coconut and a little pepper make this astand out dram. With a cask strength54.6% ABV and non-chill filtration, it’sfirmly aimed at connoisseurs.”

ISLAY TASTE MAP LAUNCHED

GLEN GARIOCH UNVEILS 25 YEAR OLD VINTAGE RELEASE


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Award-winningGlengoyne HighlandSingle Malt is one of

the leading malt whiskiesin the world and has beendistilled at Glengoyne fornearly 200 years. Usingmethods passed down forgenerations, Glengoyne ismade with knowledge,passion and craftsmanship.

Unlike most singlemalts, Glengoyne uses air-dried barley rather thanbarley dried with harshpeat smoke, beforenursing the spirit throughthe stills more slowly thanany other distillery. Thespirit then matures in thefinest Spanish andAmerican oak sherrycasks, resulting in auniquely smooth andcomplex whisky, in whichthe delicate flavours freelyexpress themselves.

The Glengoyne

portfolio includes 10 YearsOld, 12 Years Old CaskStrength, 12 Years Old at43%, 17 Years Old and 21Years Old as well asspecial limited editionbottlings released everyyear.

Glengoyne 10 years Oldis the perfect introductionto the range, loved byboth malt enthusiasts andthose new to whisky. Ithas a golden yellowappearance with a sweetnose and taste of freshgreen apples. As thewhisky ages through 12Years Old notes of sherryappear. At 17 nutty, spicyflavours develop with the21 Years Old a riot oftoffee, spice and lots ofsherry.

In time for Christmas,Glengoyne has launchedthe second in a series oflimited edition ‘Art of

Glengoyne’ collectibletins. The special designfor the 10 Years Oldwhisky was created bylocal artist SimonLawrie. The Art ofGlengoyne isavailable to buy forthe same price as aregular bottlemaking a greatvalue gift.

For a truly uniquegift this Christmas

create a personalisedbottle of Glengoyne.Ahead of Christmas thesevery special bottles arethe same price as regularbottles.

Available onGlengoyne 10 Years Old,17 Years Old and 21 YearsOld, each bottle andmatching tube includes aone-off message and apicture of your choice,making the ideal gift witha genuinely personaltouch.

Order online atwww.glengoyne.com, orcall 01360 550 254.

Glengoyne ‘Scotland’smost beautiful distillery’ isjust 30 minutes north ofGlasgow overlooking theWest Highland Way. Toursstart from £6.50 throughto the Masterclass at£100, offering a giftexperience to suit alllevels of whiskyknowledge and passion.For something differentwhy not try the MasterBlender Session whereguests learn the art of theMaster Blender to createtheir very own blend tobottle and take home. Formore information or tobuy an experience giftvoucher call 01360 550254 or visitwww.glengoyne.com

Award winning Glengoyne

ADVERTORIAL


n Simon and Franchi ofSimply Whisky linkedup with Erik Lorincz ofThe Savoy Hotel’sAmerican Bar recently,to create a specialcocktail containing theWorld’s oldest whisky,Mortlach 70 Year Old /1938. They named thenew cocktail ‘The Elgin’and it contained theWorld’s oldest whisky,the Mortlach 70 YearOld / 1938’, Talisker 10 year old, orangeCuracao and Suzeaperitif. With Mortlachselling at more than£10,000 a bottle, I hateto think what thecocktail cost!

TALISKER™, the only Single Malt Scotch Whiskymade in the Isle of Skye, is now the titlesponsor of The Atlantic Challenge. This is theworld’s toughest rowing race. It will be knownas The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge andwill kick off on 4 December. The race is biennial;the Talisker sponsorship will run for at least the2011 and the 2013 races.

The 2011 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge

starts on 4 December in the Spanish port of SanSebastian de la Gomera in the Canary Islandsand follows the ‘Columbus Route’, west-boundacross the mid-Atlantic to Port St Charles inBarbados. The race is 2,549 nautical miles(2,933 regular miles) with competitors whocome from around the world expected to arrivein the Caribbean from mid-January onwards.Not all teams succeed in finishing the crossing.

Scotland has the most passionate maltenthusiasts… and that’s official. Forthe second year running a Scottish

bartender has picked up the GlenfiddichMalt Mastermind title. David Sinclair of TheBar at the Gleneagles Hotel in Scotlandsucceeds Colin McMillan of the ThreeJudges in Glasgow, who won last year, andwho did participate this year too. Thiscompetition which is open to bartendersthroughout the UK, saw eight finalists fromacross the country battle it out at The Savoyin London, to be crowned this year’swinner.

The Glenfiddich Malt mastermindcompetition was launched last year to findthe bar trade’s most passionate maltenthusiasts. This year, finalists had to

demonstrate their passion and knowledgeof malt whisky, as well as show off theircreativity by presenting a new Glenfiddichserve.

Other Scots also shortlisted wereAndrew Miller of Elbow Bar in Edinburghand Michael Allan of Raconteur, Edinburgh

Jamie Milne, Glenfiddich’s brandambassador, comments, “The ideas andlevel of originality and creativitydemonstrated at the final was inspiringand all concerned put a huge amount ofhard work and effort in to making it athrilling final. As a pioneering brand, weare excited to see the on-trade embrace themalt category and evolve it to encouragenew drinkers to enjoy malt whisk”.

David Sinclair’s Equilibrium serve

DAVID SINCLAIR CROWNED WINNER OFGLENFIDDICH MALT MASTERMIND 2011

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EQUILIBRIUMRECIPE50ml Glenfiddich 18 Year Old15ml Morello Cherry Brandy3 drops of Aztec Chocolate BittersFinish with an Apple Wood SmokeServe in an Old Fashioned glasswith a Japanese Ice Ball

using Glenfiddich 18 Year Old stole theshow. Milne continues, “The competitionis not about creating elaborate serves, it’sabout contestants understanding malt andinnovative ways in which they can use itand other ingredients to produce excitingnew drinks. David managed to combineclassic sophistication with a modern twist,producing an elegant and beautifullyconstructed serve which really enhancedthe flavours of the whisky.”

In addition to the title of MaltMastermind of the Year, David Sinclair haswon £1000, a trophy and a VIP trip to theGlenfiddich distillery.

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At the end of Paul McCartney’s Long and Winding Roaddown the Kintyre peninsula sits the small settlement ofCampbeltown. Home to around 5000 people, The

affectionately-nicknamed Wee Toon has a history much richerthan many would expect as the former Whisky Capital of theWorld and one-time base for 37 different distilleries. It retainsits status as one of Scotland’s distinct whisky producing regionsand today boasts three working distilleries. Undoubtedly thebest known of the trio, and the whisky which has become theflagship of the region, is Springbank.

Springbank Distillery is unique. It is the oldest independentfamily owned distillery in Scotland. Founded in 1828 on thesite of Archibald Mitchell's illicit still, the Springbank Distilleryis now in the hands of his great great great grand son, HedleyG. Wright.

Owned by Mr Wright's J&A Mitchell &Co Ltd, Springbank is the only distillery inScotland to carry out the full productionprocess on the one site. 100% of thetraditional floor malting, maturation andbottling is done at the distillery inCampbeltown.

It produces the most hand madewhisky in Scotland, with traditionalproduction methods being usedthroughout the process, and humaninvolvement at each and every stage.

It is the only distillery in Scotland tohave never chill-filtered, nor do we addany artificial colourings to any of oursingle malts.

It is the only distillery in Scotland toproduce three different single malts,Springbank, Longrow and Hazelburn,using three different production methods.

Tradition, history and good honest

ADVERTORIAL

Springbank:A uniquewhisky

endeavour are the cornerstones ofeverything we do at Sprinbank.

Tours of the distillery areavailable and our visitors can alsoenjoy a relaxing dram after the tourin the luxurious Tasting Room inCampbeltown. For more informationon tours, times and availability, [email protected], telephone01586 551710.

The company also owns Mitchell'sGlengyle Distillery in Campbeltown,where Kilkerran single malt isdistilled, the first new distillery builtin Scotland this millennium. J&AMitchell is also the sister company ofthe Campletown based, world-famous independent bottler WilliamCadenhead Ltd.

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iMaltFirst up isimalt, whichhas 400 maltsin its

database, complete withhigh-resolution images, and you can add more bysubscribing to its sister app, the iTasteNote Cloudservice. There are alsodetails on 70 distilleries,but you can inflate this,and then rate themaccordingly. One reviewersaid, ‘Great tool fortracking and enjoyingsingle malts. The fieldsprompt you input forcolour, body, nose, etc.The prompts also helpdevelop your nose andpalate. Most distilleriesand bottlings areincluded and searchableby general taste, a nicefeature for the novice.Team this up withMichael Jackson’s book, a good nosing glass, and you’re set.’

More info:imaltwhiskyapp.com

Apps are designed to make life easier, in

theory, and next time you’re at the bar

agonising over whether to order a Bowmore

or a Benromach, help is literally at hand from

a variety of the whisky-related kind. So here

is A Wee DRAM’s low-down on those

Smartphone/tablet apps that are well worth

a nose. We also point you in the direction of

all the best forums/blogs the Internet has to

offer to satisfy the curiosity of every type of

whisky devotee. By Jason Caddy

WhiskEWEE DRAM 5 v2_WEE DRAM 20/11/2011 21:10

14 DRAM

Malt Matcher is aimed at anybody who’sa bit green when it comes to confidentlychoosing a malt – or those that are justplain bewildered at the choice on offerat the bar. Malt Matcher claims todemystify the whole process and distil

it down into less of a daunting prospect – and allowsyou to match malts to different people in your circle. Soin theory you should never make another faux pas atthe bar, or buy another dud bottle again. One userreview said, ‘This app has really helped me decide whichwhisky to try with different foods! I really like therecommendations for trying new things so I can workout which whisky to try next!’

More info: itunes.apple.com/gb/app/malt-matcher

Malt Matcher

iWhiskeyThis app has beendeveloped byself-styled USwhisky

connoisseur and journalist,F.Paul Pacult. The app contains600-plus reviews from the manhimself, ranging from thereasonably priced, to whiskiesthat cost the earth. Userreviews that people haveposted are in the main verypositive, although some dofocus on the fact that this appcan be a bit limited if you don’tshare the developer’s views. Forexample, one post commented,‘The reviews are kinda short,but spot on. I hated to spend alot on this app without testingfirst, but I was not disappointed.Hope future updates add morefeature & not just more reviews.’

More info: iwhiskeyapp.com

The interestingthing about thisapp is that itpresents

whiskies in the form of aperiodic table. This makes iteasier to look for whiskiesthat share the same kind ofprofile, and this speeds up theselection process, especially ifyou’re at the bar and thepressure is on to make a snapdecision. One user reviewawarded this 8.5/10 andadded, ‘All in all a nice littletime waster of an applicationfor all you whisky lovers out

there. It doesn’t tell youanything you don’t knowalready but hey for £1.79(which won’t buy you adecent dram these days) is anice distraction.’

More info:whiskyiodic.istolz.com

WhiskyiOdic


The WhiskyCast appis free but has a lot tooffer, as it has beenbased on one of the

Internet’s most successful whiskypodcasts. It has tasting notes andratings for over 400 whiskies, plus it is

also a podcast player so you can tune in to the regular podcasts. Andlike all the best things in life, it’s freebecause of support from TheGlenrothes for the iPhone, andBenromach for the Android phone.Says one user review, ‘It is aphenomenal app. It has the last fewepisodes of the podcast ready to listento, plus links to all the archives. Thereis a page with links to everything Mark(Gillespie) mentions in the podcast

as well as his reviews andcalendar of events. Just awonderful app, and it's free!’

More info:whiskycast.com

F E AT U R E

WhiskyCast

If you’re looking to furtherindulge your passion forthe stuff, there are plentyof online forums andblogs that will do thetrick. We at the Wee DRAMare particularly partial towhiskywhiskywhisky.com.This is arguably one of themost definitive forumswith fast approaching90,000 posts and 1300members – and althoughyou can view all thediscussions as a non-member, you mustregister to wade in to anyone of the numerousdebates that rumble on.Similarly whiskymag.comhas a loyal followingattached to its forum.

Scotchmaltwhisky.co.uk hosts a similar function,but with fewer registeredmembers and posts thanwhiskywhiskywhisky, butto its credit, it has more of an internationalflavour to the threads,with a stronger focus onwhiskies from around theworld. And when it comesto blogs, Discover Whisky(discoverwhisky.co.uk) is a blog based in Scotland,while Doctor Whisky(drwhisky.blogspot.com),is just what the doctorordered, and has beengoing strong since 2006.

All recommendationsare available from theApp Store.

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Blogs andForums


INTERVIEW

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What brought you into theWhisky Industry?I am part of the 4th Generation ofthe family who own and manageGordon & MacPhail so I havebeen involved in the whiskyindustry for a large part of mylife. Before joining G&M what wereyou doing?I completed an Honours Degreein Software Engineering and aMasters in Marketing, followingthat I spent a year travelling andworking in Australia beforeworking in IT for a constructioncompany in Edinburgh. I thenstarted with Gordon & MacPhailin March 2008 and carried out a 2year Management TrainingProgram, which involved workingthrough every area of thebusiness.What do you do on a day-to-day basis?Currently my role within Gordon& MacPhail is split between UKSales and Marketing.

As part of my marketing role Ilook after our Digital Platforms.This has been particularly busy atthe moment as we have justlaunched our new Gordon &MacPhail website and will belaunching our new BenromachWebsite shortly, as well as tryingto expand our Social Mediafollowing.

As part of my UK Sales role I

look after our customers in theFort William area and also try andget involved with as manytastings and exhibitions aspossible.You must have faced a fewchallenges, what would yousay was the biggest one?I think the biggest challenge atthe moment is the currenteconomic conditions. It is verychallenging times for everyone inthe licence trade. However I feelGordon & MacPhail providesexcellent customer relations andoffers a very flexible service tohelp meet our customer needs. Would you order whisky on anight out?Yes! Working for Gordon &MacPhail I am very fortunate as Iget to sample a number of the350 fantastic whiskies we bottlefrom throughout Scotland.

If I had to choose one it wouldbe from our own distilleryBenromach 10 Years Old, it hasjust the perfect balance ofsweetness and complexity tomake it my favourite dram.How do you enthuse yourfriends about whisky?I am very passionate aboutwhisky and I feel it rubs off onthem!

I feel there is a whisky styleout there for everyone sosometimes it is just a matter ofhelping them find the right one,

if it is lighter style Lowland, peatyor a sherried Speyside.When you are not workingwhat do you like to do?Well apart from trying newwhiskies, I spend a lot of my timeon the water. I grew up in a smallfishing village and spent everyweekend and holiday sailing andracing. It is something I havecontinued to do and I compete

Whisky,software & sailingWhisky is in Richard Urquhart’s blood. He tells us why.


DRAM 17

throughout the UK andsometimes Europe.

One of my most memorablesailing experiences so far wasback in 2007 when I took part inthe Clipper Round the WorldYacht Race, which Benromachsponsored. It gave theopportunity to race from SouthAfrica to Australia and sail in theSouthern Ocean, which has been

one of my ambitions since Istarted sailing.What’s your favourite bar, andwhere do you like to eat?This is a hard one to answer; Iguess it depends on where I amand who I am with:

If I am in Glasgow with somefriends I have been known to popin to the Oran Mor or TheUbiquitous Chip they both have

great atmosphere and a greatselection of whisky.

If I am through in Edinburgh Ihave some great meals with mywife in the Magnum restaurantand a chilled out drink or two inthe Albanach bar.

Inverness is reasonably close(compared to Edinburgh andGlasgow) so I love to go andenjoy the Italian food at Riva.


The For the Love of…whisky speed tastingskicked off in Glasgow with tasters voting for

their favourite whisky which was Bowmore 15 year old. And it went on to pick up thePeople’s Choice Trophy at the Oran Mor

Whisky Awards. A special thanks to our great whiskyambassadors pictured above, David Smillie, GeraldineMurphy, Frank, Murphy and Alec Dyson.

18 DRAM

WhiskyTasting


DRAM 19

FESTIVAL


www.douglaslaing.com Please enjoy respectfully

Bottled at

natural cask strength

and traditionally

un-chill fi ltered

Old & Rare is really very special – and each cask is selected for its character, individuality, and strengths (indeed it is bottled at natural cask strength) – a perfect gift or self indulgence. We also respectfully off er a cornucopia of fi ne alternatives such as the OLD MALT CASK, DOUBLE BARREL and the feisty BIG PEAT from Islay.

Available at: � e Aberdeen Whisky Shop, D & G Christie on Islay, � e Whisky Shop Group, J L Gill in Crieff , Peckhams, Robbies Drams of Ayr, Robert Graham & Co., Robertsons of Pitlochery, Royal Mile Whiskies, Woodwinters Wines & Whisky, S R & E Barron of Dyce, Single Malts Direct in Huntly, Tams Drams of Glasgow, � e Whisky Barrel in Edinburgh, � e Whisky Castle in Tomintoul, Whisky Galore in Tyndrum and Valvona & Crolla of Edinburgh.


COCKTAILS

DRAM 21

WINTER WARMING COCKTAILS

anCNOCROUGE Ingredients50ml anCnoc 12 yearold 25ml sweet vermouth75ml Red Grape Juice 1 dash angosturaaromatic bitters Orange twist and redgrapesMethodStir the ingredientslightly in ice-filledBoston glass and strainin an ice-filled Hi-ballglass (tall glass). Thisserve has its routes inthe Classic Manhattancocktail. It’s served tallwith pressed red grapejuice for heightenedaroma, with an orange

twist to lift. Created by Scott Gemmell LABartenders.

YAMAZAKI TOJIMid December is the time of the winter solstice, forwhich the Japanese have a name and a cocktail -Yamazaki Toji. Ingredients50ml Yamazaki 12 year old whisky15ml Mandarine Napoleon6ml AbsintheBrown sugar, vanilla pod, cinnamon, cloves, anisstar and orange peel

MethodLight 25ml of thewhisky and all otheringredients for 15seconds.Heat rest ofwhisky in a balloonglass, add first mixto balloon glass,leave flamed for 5seconds.Cover glasswith napkin toextinguish flameCreated by ZoranPeric, SuntoryBrand Ambassador

HAKUSHU RITTO(Japanese hot toddy)Ritto the “Beginning of Winter”Ingredients50ml Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky75ml hot green teaTeaspoon of runny honeyPinch of powdered gingerSqueeze of lemon juice

MethodPour Hakushuand green teainto a mug, addhoney, gingerand lemonjuice. Stir untilhoney isdissolved. Addginger sliceand serve.Created byZoran Peric,Suntory BrandAmbassador

anCNOC APPLE MAC This cocktail is amodern twist on thetraditional WhiskyMac.Ingredients:50 anCnoc Highland12 year old Malt 25ml of ginger wine 75ml pressed applejuice Juice of half lime Angostura aromaticbittersMethod:Simply add anCnoc12 year old, along

with the ginger wine, pressed apple juice andfresh lime over cubed ice. Shake and strain theingredients into an ice-filled old-fashioned glass.Then add two dashes of angostura aromaticbitters on top, and garnish with a fresh limewedge. Created by Scott Gemmell LA Bartenders.

www.douglaslaing.com Please enjoy respectfully

Bottled at

natural cask strength

and traditionally

un-chill fi ltered

Old & Rare is really very special – and each cask is selected for its character, individuality, and strengths (indeed it is bottled at natural cask strength) – a perfect gift or self indulgence. We also respectfully off er a cornucopia of fi ne alternatives such as the OLD MALT CASK, DOUBLE BARREL and the feisty BIG PEAT from Islay.

Available at: � e Aberdeen Whisky Shop, D & G Christie on Islay, � e Whisky Shop Group, J L Gill in Crieff , Peckhams, Robbies Drams of Ayr, Robert Graham & Co., Robertsons of Pitlochery, Royal Mile Whiskies, Woodwinters Wines & Whisky, S R & E Barron of Dyce, Single Malts Direct in Huntly, Tams Drams of Glasgow, � e Whisky Barrel in Edinburgh, � e Whisky Castle in Tomintoul, Whisky Galore in Tyndrum and Valvona & Crolla of Edinburgh.


www.smokehead.com

A Whisky for Today

Smokehead encourages responsible drinking


WHAT’S ON

DRAM 23

WHAT’S ON30 November 2011St Andrew’s Day CelebrationsThe Scotch Malt Whisky Society 87 Giles Street, Leithn In celebration of Scotland’s patronsaint, The Vaults will be celebrating.There will be plenty of haggisavailable, a few special drams andentertainment provided by TheEdinburgh Theatre Arts Group.

Sunday 4th DecemberNew Outturn TastingThe Scotch Malt Whisky Society87 Giles Street, Leithn This regular monthly event takesplace in the Whisky Room at12.30pm. It gives you theopportunity to try any three of theSocieties new single cask whiskiesfrom this month’s new Outturn.Ticket includes a roast cavery andchef’s choice of pudding. T: +44 (0)131 555 2266e: [email protected]

Friday 9th DecemberWhisky Port and Cheese Tasting 7-9pm The Scotch Malt Whisky Society28 Queen StreetEdinburghn What better way to enjoy thecount down to Christmas than withan eveing of whisky and portmatched with fine cheeses fromScotland and the Contient. Threedrams and three ports will beserved, each with one or twodifferent cheeses. T: +44 (0)131 555 2266e: [email protected]

29th - 30th December 2011Distillers Fair Scotch WhiskyExperience 10-4pmThe Scotch Whisky Experience, 354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NET: 0131 220 0441 www.scotch-whisky-experience.co.ukn Join Scotland’s foremost expertsin Scotch whisky with the rareopportunity to meet some of the

distillers themselves as they revealsome of the mysteries behind theirvery own Whiskies. Enjoy the WhiskyTour which for two days onlyincludes exclusive entrance to theDistillers Fair and the chance to joina “mini master class”.

Tuesday 24th January 2012 The Scotch Whisky Training School- Burns theme 9-5:15pmThe Scotch Whisky Experience, 354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NET: 0131 220 0441 www.scotch-whisky-experience.co.ukn To celebrate Burns’ Day thetraining school will have a RobertBurns theme. Spend a day“immersed” in the world of ScotchWhisky with our Whisky course andgain the “Certificate of Expertise”recognised by the Scotch WhiskyIndustry. A mixture of hands onactivities and different learningstyles are covered to make the dayentertaining and fun as well ashighly educational andinformative.To book a place call 0131220 0441 or email Angela [email protected]

24th January 2012Whisky Speed datingQueens ArmsHanover StreetEdinburghn Whether a whisky drinker or anon-whisky drinker why not comealong and find out if you can findyour perfect mate when it comes toa whisky that suits you. FromBenromach 10 year old to Bowmore15 year old, there’s a range of maltsand blends to whet your appetite forScotland’s national drink. Registerthrough itison.

Sunday 29th January 2012 Whisky FestivalFox and Hounds Main Street, Houstonfrom 1.00pm - 5.00pm featuring over12 suppliers,

n Whisky masterclasses andsampling. Tickets are £15 each andinclude entry, with acommemorative Glencairn tastingglass, 5 drams, bottle of water andbowl of soup and a sandwich.

Tickets now on sale contact TheFox: 01505 612448

7 April 2012Inverness Whisky FestivalBogbain Farm Invernesswww.invernesswhiskyfestival.co.uk

3rd - 7th May 2012Spirit of Speyside WhiskyFestivaln There will be something foreveryone throughout the Speysidearea, from Forres and Grantown-on-Spey in the West to Elgin andFochabers in the East stretchingdown to Glenlivet and Tomintoul inthe Cairngorms National Park inthe South.

There will be unique tours andtastings, many at distilleries notnormally open to visitors,opportunities to meet the experts,matching food and whisky events,a local food fair, masterclasses andlectures, wildlife walks with whiskytreats, art and craft, drama andcomedy.www.spiritofspeyside.com

12 May 2012The Spirit of Stirling WhiskyFestival n The first ever Stirling WhiskyFestival will take place on SaturdayMay 12th 2012; doors open at11.30am and last dram poured at4.45pm. This event will bringtogether the best in Scotland,Stirling and Whisky.

Book tickets for generaladmission and master classes atEalain Gallery or call us on 01360660 996.

25th May - 3rd June The Islay Festival of Music & Malt Islay

www.smokehead.com

A Whisky for Today

Smokehead encourages responsible drinking


24 DRAM

One of the newest whisky bars to open in Scotland is TheWhiski Rooms in Edinburgh. The new bar, which opened inthe summer is not just a bar, instead it is a bar, bistro and

shop. It is situated on North Bank Street just off the Mound andone of the reasons that the bar boasts a shop is that owners Anneand Gary Still, who also own the Whiski Bar on High Street, werecomplying with customers requests. Says Anne, “We were alwaysbeing asked by our customers where they could go and buy thewhisky we were serving, so we thought why not open a whiskyshop with a bar attached. That way, customers could purchasestraight away the whisky they’d tried in the bar. We have 500whiskies in the shop and 300 in the bar.”

Meanwhile the Whiski Bar’s the couple’s original bar picked upthis year’s Glenmorangie Whisky Bar of the Year award with theother finalists being The Fiddler’s in Drumnadrochit, TheBallygrant in Islay and The Anderson in Fortrose. All excellentplaces to try whisky.

The Whiski Rooms,Edinburgh


WHISKY BARS

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FEATURE

DRAM 27

THE SEARCHBEGINS FORGLENROTHESVINTAGEMAKER 2012

Glenrothes is delighted toannounce the launch ofVintage Maker 2012. And

this time around they arelooking for four winners fromthe UK, four winners from theUSA and four winners from therest of the world. The successfulcandidates will be recruited towork as The Glenrothes VintageMakers in the heart of singlemalt production, Speyside,Scotland, culminating in thecreation of The GlenrothesVintage 2012.

As part of this opportunity,the successful candidates willlearn the time-honoured art ofmaking The Glenrothes and theskills that have been passeddown from generation togeneration. With the VintageMakers staying in Rothes House,a private home belonging to thefamily that owns The Glenrothes.As with the distillery, RothesHouse is not open to the publicbut is reserved for VIP visits.

Entrants must submit 1500characters or less in answer tothe question ‘Tell us about yourVintage moment.’ Entrants mayalso upload a picture or link toan online video to supplementtheir written entry (but this is notnecessary). The winners will bethe entries that in the opinion ofthe judges, best represent thedefinition of a GlenrothesVintage moment: A perfectcombination of time, place,people and/or occasion wheneverything comes together tocreate a moment that will stay inthe memory forever.

The competition will run untilthe 31st January 2012 and canbe entered atwww.theglenrothes.com/vintagemaker

Ervin TrykowskiThe Finnieston,Glasgow

I’m loving Red Breast 12year old at the moment.

It’s an Irish whisky and it’s verygentle. I’m selling loadsof it.

Alec TrousdaleQueen’s Arms,Edinburgh

Recently I’ve beenintroduced to Glen

Garioch which I enjoyed. Butthe best whisky I’ve tastedrecently is the 1998 VintageHighland Park. It issublime.

James KempThe Finnieston,Glasgow

Edradour 10 year oldsherry cask strength

is amazing and it’s a smallbatch. It ‘s so easyto drink.

BARTENDERS’CHOICE

“ ““ “

“ “The Wee DRAM spoke to some of the people working in Scotland’sbest bars to find out what whiskies they choose when they are onthe other side of the bar.


28 DRAM

LADIES THATLOVE A LADDIEFor the lady in your lifewhy not try a bottle ofBruichladdich Ten?Affectionately know asLaddie this is the only10 year old spirit to bedistilled, matured andbottled on Islay. Itspackaging is verystriking and features alovely Aqua Marinecolour on its label. It’salso an easy malt todrink. £33.

BENROMACH 30 YEAR OLDIf you have a friend or family member who is 30 why

not buy them a bottle of Benromach 30 Year Old, whichhas been awarded the Best Single Malt Scotch whisky

in the latest edition of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible?Benromach 30 Year Old was described as “magnificent,one of the outstanding malts of the year”, scoring 95.5

points out of 100. Earlier in the year the brands flagshipSingle Malt, Benromach 10 Year Old was also awarded

gold at the 2011 Great Taste Awards. (£35.50)Jim Murray gave Benromach 30 Year Old his awardfor the Best Single Malt Scotch Whisky 28-34 Years

(Multiple Casks). £145.

LABEL CONSCIOUSLabel conscious men would love “The Chiller” or “The Cube”, basically a bottle chiller andice-bucket but made by Porsche Design Studio, in partnership with Johnnie Walker® BlueLabel™. The Chiller (RRP £240) holds a single bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, encasedin sophisticated dark blue leather and brushed titanium, whilst the top removes tofunction as an ice chiller. The Cube (£490) comes with an individually numbered bottle ofJohnnie Walker Blue Label alongside an ice chiller, stainless steel tongs, and four bespokeBlue Label crystal glasses, ideal for entertaining. They are available from Royal MileWhiskies, Edinburgh.

A special illuminated Cube can also be ordered at the Blythswood Square in Glasgow andDormy House at Gleneagles. But for those, with very deep pockets you could also order upyour very own Private Bar which is crafted from brushed titanium with a luxurious leatherinterior, and features state of the art motion sensors which open through a perfect 180degrees, revealing three bottles of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, four subtly illuminatedcrystal glasses and chilled water, essential for the perfect serve to cleanse the palatebefore tasting and to serve on the side. It’s made to order!

A SHOE ITIf you are in the money the perfect gift for a realwhisky lover that likes shoes… Lutwyche, theleading UK men’s tailor, has launched its firstluxury men’s shoe in partnership with TheDalmore

The Dalmore brogue reflects the Dalmore’saffiliation with the stag, whose head adorns everybottle of single malt whisky, the benchmade shoeis made from sustainably sourced deerskin andbranded with the regal Dalmore stag’s head crest.Upon purchase, each shoe will be personalisedwith the customer’s name and each customer willalso receive a bottle of The Dalmore’s award-winning King Alexander III single malt whisky. Theshoes cost £550, including a bottle of KingAlexander III single malt whisky worth RRP£150.

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BOOK LOVERThere are lots of good whiskybooks but a recent publicationwritten by whisky expert JimMurray and called simply theWhisky Bible, give you a realinsight into his favouritewhiskies and how he ratesthem. It’s available from goodbook stores and is published byDram Good Books priced at£12.99

Why not give the gift ofmembership to TheScotch Malt WhiskySociety, an impressivepresent which is perfectfor lovers of the finer thingsin life. For just £100 Societymembership opens the doorto the world’s widest selectionof single cask single malts,exclusive Members’ Rooms andwhisky spotlights across the UK atHotel du Vin, along with experttasting events.

Joining The Scotch Malt Whisky givesthe adventurous whisky lover the

opportunity to taste and explorea spectrum of different single caskwhiskies – exclusive only to its

members (youwon’t find any ofthese bottles in thesupermarket aisles).

Guaranteed toentertain and

delight,membership begins

with the delivery of theSociety’s beautiful exclusive welcome

pack, parcelled in a layered box, complete withMembers’ Handbook, notebook and four mouth-watering 10cl single cask, single malt bottlings.

Sign-up for ‘Whisky for A Year’ before Sat 31 Decand the Society will also include a free pair ofTasting Glasses (worth £13).

Gift Membership starts at £100. Visitwww.smws.co.uk/memberships for more detailsand membership benefits.

THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKYSOCIETY’S GIFT FOR ALLSEASONS

A PERSONAL GIFTYou could always plan ahead an organise a personalised

bottle of whisky for your favourite people. Often you canselect your bottle and personalise it by adding the message

of your choice to the label. Prices vary according to thewhisky. Check out the website masterofmalt.com

GIFTS

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Benromach BurgundyDistillery bottlingBenromach 2000Burgundy Wood FinishThe BenromachBurgundy wood finishis initially matured insherry and bourboncasks and the rerackedinto Pinot Noir winecasks from St Romainin Brugundy andmatured for a further 7years. Benromachdescribed this whisky

as having an initial burst offruitiness - ripe cherries,brambles and Cox’s Pippinapples balanced with arounding toffee sweetness anda peat-smoke element thatlingers in the background.

Bowmore 15 year old Darkest Nose: Dark and punchy.Sherry notes, juicyCorinth raisins. Spices.Creamy, mochaccino,sweet dates.Palate: Rich, woody,pine oil. Syrupy.Lovely, creamy toffeeand malt. Smoky.Finish: Spicy, toffee,sherry, barley.

Bruichladdich 10 year oldColour: GoldenMedium AmberHoney ToneNose: First, acombination ofhoney and a zing offresh lemon. Thenfresh, estery air

bubbles of banana, ,apricot,peach and ripe cantaloupemelon. The backdrop is a hint ofthe warm, ocean breeze blowingover the sand dunes and shoremeadows alive with the waft ofwild flowers - Hebrideanharmonisation. Palate: The mellow, oaksweetness is welcoming as arehints of bourbon andgingerbread, sherry and sultanas;and as they move on, there arethe lighter, icing sugar-coatedfruits.Finish: It’s exceptionally long fora 10 year old thanks to thenatural oils from the maltedbarley still in the spirit. Pricearound £32

Glen Garioch 12 year oldNose: Peaty,aromatic, estuary.Palate: Mediumbodied. Malty,buttery, nutty.Finish: Verylong. Honey,spices, fruity.

InveraritySpecial EditionBlend (12 year old)Nose: The nose is gently floral, with citrus fruits, desiccated coconut andhazelnuts. Notes of damp moss and lichen appear with the addition of water. Palate: The age shows on the palate, which is luxurious and rounded, with a spicy, citric edge. Nuttier with water. Finish: The finish is pleasingly lengthy. It has an ABV of 40.0% ABV

NOTES

Brand information –the brandsbelow were used in the recentwhisky speed tasting events atOranMor. For furtherinformation you can alwayscheck their websites.

Auchentoshan ClassicLowland Malt Colour: The Classic issoft, rich and creamy

with a pale goldappearance. Nose: It has a richvanilla and coconutsmell with a hint ofgreen apple and atang of citrus zest. Palate: To taste ithas a sweet vanillacream, fresh greenapple skin and alittle mint.

Finish: It has a wonderful freshfloral zesty finish.

Benromach 10 year oldColour: Golden Nose: Rich sherryinfluence with fruit& nut chocolateand delicate spice -cinnamon. Freshgreen apples, witha malty, digestivebiscuit note andlight peat smoke inthe background.Palate: Deliciousforest fruits -raspberries andbrambles, sherry,malt creaminesswith a strongerpeat influence.Body: Long lingering finish withsubtle sherry and peat. Finish: Balanced

30 DRAM

TASTING NOTESThe great thing about malt whisky is that people can taste a whole variety of flavours inthe liquid. Whisky connoisseurs have a host of descriptives, on this page we give yousome that are used to describe the various Island malts. When we talk about nose wemean smell, and palate means the taste. The Finish, is the taste that remains once youhave swallowed.


People’s Choice AwardBowmore 15 Year OldBlind Tasting AwardBruichladdich 10Best NewcomerNaked GrouseBest Overseas WhiskyAmrut IndianWhisky Representative of the yearPaul Goodwin, MorrisonBowmoreLifetime AchievementRobert Speirs, Maxxium UK

Congratulations to the winners ofthe 2011 Òran Mór Whisky Awards

Òran Mór, 731-735 Great Western Road,Glasgow G12 8QX. www.oran-mor.co.uk


a wee dram # 5

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