A Wee DRAM # 6

ISSUE 6

DRAMA Wee

Up to speed on whiskyDanielle Murphy has a passion for whisky

WhiskologyA guide to the perfect whisky for your star sign

Perfect giftsIdeal present ideas for Father’s day

SPRING/SUMMER 2012

WEE DRAM 6 30-4-12 v2_WEE DRAM 01/05/2012 14:40

DRAM 3

4 NEWSThe latest from the world of whisky.

12 WHISKOLOGYA guide to the perfect whisky for your star sign.

14 WHISKY DISTILLERY MAPSix places to visit this summer.

16 INTERVIEWA Q&A with Danielle Murphy (cover pic) of Ian MacLeod.

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

21 COCKTAILS Summer cocktails.

23 WHAT’S ONA host of whisky flavoured events to wet your appetite.

24 WHISKY BARS We check out the Ardshiel Hotel.

27 BARTENDERS CHOICEWho’s drinking what.

28 THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDEThe wee DRAM takes a look at Speyside.

29 FATHERS DAY GIFTSIdeal present ideas for your dad.

30 TASTING NOTES

CONTENTS

Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, Glasgow G3 8ND. Telephone: 0141 221 6965 Email: [email protected] 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 2012 ISSN No 1470-2428.

• Editor Susan Young • Assistant Editor Jason Caddy • Sales Manager Lynn Kelly • Sales Executives - EmmaMacDonald & Martin Cassidy • Design Carol Anderson• Admin Cheryl Cooke • Dogs…Tootsie and Lucy

Welcome to the Spring/Summeredition of the Wee DRAM. This issuewe have an interview with cover girl

Danielle Murphy of Ian Macleod Distillers.She looks after the likes of Smokehead andIsle of Skye and is a great ambassador forwhisky. She even manages to keep fitdespite having a hectic work schedule.

We also have the pictures from lastmonth’s ‘For the love of whisky…speedtasting’ event at the Queen’s Arms inEdinburgh. A big thanks to Alec Trousdalewho helped organise it, but then whounfortunately wasn’t able to attend due to abug that landed him in hospital. But sis,Katie, did an admirable job. Also a big thankyou to Chris Miles of Black Cat, JasonThomson of the Edinburgh Whisky Blog,James Sutherland of 56 North and Martin

Duffy also from 56 North and the manbehind the Scottish Society for ProfessionalBartenders, who took the speed tastingsessions. All of whom were much admiredby the attendees.

There are also a few whisky summercocktails to whet your appetite, a feature onSpeyside, the home of the Spirit of SpeysideWhisky Festival, and this month Jason Caddyhas done a starscope for the summermonths, and expertly predicts the bestwhisky to sample for your star sign.

I hope you enjoy this issue, and you learna wee bit more about Scotland’s nationaldrink.

sláinteSusan Young Editor

WELCOME

Congratulations to Flora Grant and MarionMacKinnon who have just completed therefurbishment of the Ardshiel Hotel inCampbeltown which was officially unveiled byRichard Paterson of Whyte & Mackay.


NEWS

SMOKEHEAD GETSINTO DRAG RACING

An exhibition “Scotch Whisky: From Grain to Glass”exploring the history of the Scotch Whisky industry willopen at the Scottish Parliament in November tocelebrate the centenary of the Scotch WhiskyAssociation.On announcing the new whisky exhibition, ScottishParliament Presiding Officer Tricia Marwick MSP said,“The importance of the Scotch Whisky industry,particularly to rural Scotland, has long been recognisedand the Scottish Parliament is delighted to be hostingthis exhibition, in partnership with the Scotch WhiskyAssociation, to mark the centenary.”The exhibition is just one of a number of events plannedby the Scotch Whisky Association this year. The exhibition will open on 29 November 2012 andcontinue until 25 January 2013.It is part of a programme of temporary exhibitions in theParliament’s Main Hall that explore wider themes ofScottish interest and achievement.

4 DRAM

If you haven’t yet seen the Strange Undoing ofPrudencia Hart you ought to try and see it thissummer. The drama, put on by the National

Theatre of Scotland, and sponsored byBenromach, takes theatre into Scotland’s pubsand other unlikely venues, where stories are told,re-told, sung and passed on. It’s an evening ofsupernatural storytelling, music and theatreinspired by the Border Ballads, Robert Burns andothers. The tale is based round one PrudenciaHart, an uptight academic, who attends aconference one wintery morning in Kelso in theScottish Borders. As the snow begins to fall, littledoes she know who or what awaits her there.

David Urquhart, Joint Managing Director ofGordon & MacPhail, owners of the BenromachDistillery in Forres, said: “It’s a pleasure to be

BENROMACH

Smokehead, the explosiveIslay Single Malt fromindependent bottler,blender and distiller, IanMacleod Distillers, isbacking the Euro Dragster2012 season.

In partnership withiconic music brand,Marshall Amps, Smokeheadis supporting a Fuel Funnycar that will be running outof the MPM and FGRMotorsport camp in 2012.The slick new car wasofficially unveiled at theMarshall stand at theFrankfurt Musikmesse, theworld’s leading trade fair forthe world of music.

Described as beingvigorous and unapologeticfor its big and intense peatyflavours, Smokeheadmatches the spirit of DragRacing, celebrating thecraftsmanship anddedication of the teamsthat go into making thesport of Drag Racing one ofthe most popular racingsports in the world.

Meanwhile the the brand

has also unveiled a limitedRock Edition presentationtin to celebrate itscredentials as the rock ‘n’roll spirit of choice for2012, introducing the time-honoured symbol of rock: asmoking skull.

Iain Weir, MarketingDirector for Smokeheadsays, “Like a Fuel Car sittingin the beams waiting tolaunch, Smokehead is anexplosive Islay Single Maltthat demands yourimmediate attention.Through our work withMarshall over the years, wehave become anenthusiastic supporter of allthings rock and roll. Joiningtogether to celebrate andsupport Euro Dragster is anatural progression forboth brands, as we share anaffinity with the power andpassion that the racingignites.” Smokehead sells ataround £33.49. For moreinformation look at:www.smokehead.com


NEWS

DRAM 5

ON TOUR WITH DRAMAn Scotland is celebratedthe world over for whiskyand golf, so what could bemore appropriate theannouncement of a threeyear partnership, that willsee Glenmorangie becomethe Official Whisky of TheOpen Championship. The Open Championship isgolf ’s most famoustournament watched ontelevision by an estimated458 million households allover the world. This year ittakes place at the RoyalLytham & St Annes GolfClub, near Liverpool but in2013 it returns to Scotlandand to Muirfield nearEdinburgh.

Meanwhile the datesfor the Ryder Cup 2014 atGleneagles have recentlybeen announced as the26th to the 28th ofSeptember 2014.

associated with such an individual and artisticperformance, which we feel reflects many of thedistinctive qualities of the various expressions ofour malt whisky.”

Those attending the performance will beinvited to sample Benromach 10 Years Old,Benromach Organic or Benromach Peat Smoke atthe bar after the performance.

Reviews of the show have been great. “Youshouldn’t miss this show for the world…rambunctiously life-affirming and touchinglybeautiful.” said the The Herald. While theScotsman revealed, “More vibrantly alive than anypiece of theatre I’ve seen in Scotland for years.”Catch it at the Tait Hall, Kelso on 4 and 5th May orat Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival on the31st May and 1st June.


NEWS

DRAM 7

The Glenrothes Vintage Makers for2012 have been revealed. Theinternational competition whichattracted entries from the USA, the UK and the rest of the world, saw four winners from the UK.The winners best represented thedefinition of a Glenrothes Vintagemoment in the eyes of the judges. They were looking for aperfect combination of time,place, people and/oroccasion wheneverything comestogether to create amoment that will stay inthe memory forever.The successful winnerswill get to work at TheGlenrothes Distillery. Thewinners will spend timeworking at each stage ofthe whisky-making

process: from testing the purity ofthe water source at the distillery’stwo springs; to mashing; overseeingfermentation; slowly and carefullydistilling new make spirit in the tallcopper pot stills. They will also makecasks, and nose single malt frommaturing casks to assess whether thecontents are of sufficientlyexceptional quality and maturity.

Only the top 3% of the distillery’s output isbottled as TheGlenrothes SpeysideSingle Malt Whisky.Finally, the VintageMakers will have theopportunity to createthe Vintage 2012 of The Glenrothes, to bereleased when itreaches the peak of maturity.

Glenrothes reveals vintagemaker winners

Ed Hoyle; enlightenment on

the Camino de Santiago

Alan Bennett; backstage with the

StonesJules Janes; flypast from a

SpitfireMartin Batson; otter-spotting in

Scotland

THE UK WINNERS

(with abridged Vintage Moments)

n Glenfiddich’s first evervatted Vintage Reserve isnow available from thebar. Malt Master, BrianKinsman and Global BrandAmbassador, Ian Millar,nosed and tasted threeexceptional vatted vintagewhiskies dating from 1973,1974 and 1975, beforeselecting the 1974Glenfiddich.

Brian Kinsman,Glenfiddich Malt Master,said, “Just 50 limited-edition bottles of thedistinctly Glenfiddichwhisky, which has rich,spicy oak notes and anamazing vibrancy forwhisky of this age, will beavailable in the UK.”

Meanwhile, Glenfiddichhas also unveiled a newburgundy bottle for its 21Year Old Gran Reserva. Thebottle also bears thesignature of BrianKinsman.

He said, “Glenfiddich 21Year Old Gran Reserva isone of the most premiumwhiskies we make. It ismatured and mellowed inAmerican oak casks thenthe liquid is decanted intohand-selected, Caribbeanrum casks for a further fourmonths maturation. Withits sweet toffee, fig andvanilla notes, Glenfiddich21 Year Old is mostdefinitely a whisky to besavoured.”

n Whisky Fringe is set to take place in Edinburghthis summer between the 3rd and 5th August.You can try a wide varietyof whiskies at the eventwhich takes place at the Mansfield Traquair, so whether you are a novice or a moreexperienced tippler there is likely to be a whisky to suit you.

Sailing fanatics will be pleased tohear that Bowmore, Islay’s firstSingle Malt distillery, has signed upto sponsor Clyde Cruising Club’s‘Brewin Dolphin Scottish Series.’This year’s Brewin Dolphin

Scottish Series promises a realfestival of sailing and takes placeduring the Queen’s Jubileeweekend from Friday 1 June toMonday 4 June in Tarbert, LochFyne. It’s a handy weekendbecause the 4th June is a publicholiday as is the 5th – to alloweveryone to celebrate The Jubilee.Competitors and spectators will

be able to exclusively sample keybottlings from Bowmore through

prize giving and at an exclusivetasting session on Saturday 2 Junein the fantastic new marqueecomplex on the north shore ofTarbert. The complimentarytasting hosted by Bowmore BrandAmbassador, and keen sailor,Gordon Dundas will transportsailors and visitors to the magicalisland of Islay while exploring theBowmore taste.Follow @ScottishSeries on

Twitter or ‘Brewin Dolphin ScottishSeries’ on Facebook to keep up todate on all activity for 2012.

Further details on,brewindolphinscottishseries.com

BOWMORE ONBOARD FORSCOTTISH SERIES


NEWS

8 DRAM

The world of whiskyshopping has been broughtfirmly into the 21st Century,following a £1 millioninvestment by award-winning visitor attraction,the Scotch WhiskyExperience. Developed inpartnership with leadingindustry experts, the newshopping concept isdesigned to reflect modernattitudes to Scotch Whiskyand evolving shoppingtrends, bringing the productand retail experience up todate.

Says Susan Morrison,director and generalmanager of the ScotchWhisky Experience, “TheWhisky shop has establisheditself as a key element ofthe attraction.”

Key features of the newexperience include a touch-screen distillery guide andan interactive flavour map,which enables customers todiscover new options withthe tap of a button, basedon those with which theyare already familiar. Theshop’s Blended ScotchWhiskies have their owngallery area with a blending display whilst theSingle Malt Whiskies arenow organised by region, as opposed to distillerallowing customers tonavigate through theselection based on the more familiar regionalcharacteristics.

‘Wish you were here’Old Pulteney launches

Old Pulteney Single Malt Whisky has teamed up with the Sunday Expressfor the seventh year to celebrate its Wish You Were Here amateurphotography competition. The challenge for budding photographers isto help revive the great British tradition of the seaside postcard througha UK wide search for the best nautical images. The competition offers afantastic prize of £2500 for the winning shot as well as a trip for two tothe Pulteney Distillery in Wick which is the most northerly mainlanddistillery in Scotland. As well as enjoying a tour of the distillery, thewinner can personally fill their own bottle of Old Pulteney and thewinner’s image will also be published in the Sunday Express. Last year’swinner, Derek Bates’ stunning image entitled ‘North Gare’ was selectedout of thousands of entrants from across the UK ranging from beautifulmaritime sunsets to seaside snaps of seagulls.You can email your entry to [email protected] Closingdate for entries is 10 June 2012. Check the Sunday Express for furtherdetails.

Boutique Whisky CompanyWemyss Malts has launched a new8 year old blended malt called “TheHive”.

Wemyss’ blended malt range,which also includes Spice Kingand Peat Chimney, has namesinspired by each whisky’snatural flavours and aromasso that the consumer caneasily understand the styleof whisky being purchased.The Hive is named after thehoneyed sweetness foundon the palate of this whisky.

The style of theseblended malts each mirrorsone of the key Scotch maltregions. The Hive is

THIS YEAR’S Speyside Whisky Festival, has once again proved to beresounding success. As we went to press the Festival was just about to getinto full swing. And there was something for everyone- From unique toursand tastings, to food and whisky matching events, walks, and arts, crafts,drama and comedy. Record tickets sales have meant that most events arenow sold out, so check with the organisers before heading along.

The festival runs until the 7th May. See our feature on Speyside for moreinfo.

representative of the Speysideregion, Spice King of theHighlands and Peat Chimney ofIslay.

As with the rest of theWemyss Malts range, theseblended malt whiskies have

been developed inconjunction with theScotch expert and writerCharlie Maclean.

The Hive will be the firstin this range to showcasea new look label which isbold and striking, withexcellent shelf presence.The blended malt rangecontinues to be bottled at40% abv.

WEMYSS MALTS LAUNCHES NEW 8YEARS OLD BLENDED MALT SCOTCH

£1M SHOPPINGEXPERIENCEOFFERS FRESHPERSECTIVE ONSCOTCH WHISKY


SpringbankOpen Day Thursday 24th May 2012

~ OFFICIAL OPENING 11AM ~Springbank Masterclasses withFrank McHardy, Gavin McLachlan -£20 (including glass).Glengyle Masterclass with RanaldWatson - £20 (including glass).Springbank Tasting and FoodPairing with Jenny Karlsson - £25(including glass).

Tastings in the warehouse - £5(includes discount voucher forCadenhead Whisky Shop).Farmers market with Food fromArgyll.Cadenhead Tasting with GrantMacpherson - £20.Tasty treats from Auntie Mo.

Free tours - at arranged timesduring the day.Seafood by McMillan Smokehouse.John Brown Wood Carvings, FyneAyles, Local Craft Stall, Music bylocal Artistes.From 6.00pm - BBQ, Spooks tour,Live Music, Bonfire.

For more information and to book Masterclass or Cadenhead tasting tel: 01586 552009 or email: [email protected]

Ardshiel Hotel, Kilkerran Road,Campbeltown, Argyll,

Scotland PA28 6JLT: 01586 552133

E: [email protected] W: www.ardshiel.co.uk

e Award WinningUsquebaugh Bar

and Lounge at theArdshiel Hotel in

Campbeltown has asuperb choice of over

700 malt whiskies


NEWS

n Jim Beam haslaunched the UK’s firstever honey-infusedbourbon, an innovationthat they hope will driveappeal and accessibilityto consumers. Theintroduction of JimBeam Honey follows thesuccessful launch lastyear of Red Stag alsofrom the Jim Beamstable.

Jim Beam Honey ismade with 4 yr old Jim Beam bourbonwhiskey, slowly infusedwith natural honey to produce asophisticated, deep andrich flavour profile witha sweet honey finish,that is 35% ABV andstays true to thecraftsmanship of JimBeam bourbon. Perfecton its own, chilled ormixed in long serves,Jim Beam Honey is aversatile drink designedto raise appealand accessibility toconsumers who wouldn’tnormally drink bourbon.

Look out for it in a barnear you. n The last weekend ofMay will see the annual‘Feis Ile - the Islay Festival of Malt andMusic ’. The celebrationfounded by the localpeople of Islay in 1986 tocelebrate the heritageand culture of the Isle ofIslay, lasts for a week.Since 2000 Feis Ile hasbeen run in conjunctionwith the distilleries ofIslay and Jura and PortEllen Maltings. As well asdistillery open daysthere are also ceilidhs,concerts, guided walksand sporting events.

10 DRAM

anCnoc Highland Single MaltScotch Whisky has unveiled anew global campaign that is setto bring a modern twist to thetraditional world of whisky –through a collaboration withinternationally acclaimedScottish illustrator Peter Arkle.

Arkle, who is now based inNew York City, has developed anexclusive range of limitededition designs for anCnoc ,which will be launchedthroughout 2012 and will beavailable in the UK, USA,Sweden and selected Europeanmarkets. Demonstrating Arkle’sfascination for the science andmystical nature of anCnoc’sproduction process, the firstanCnoc Peter Arkle LimitedEdition release is based on adepiction of each of the SingleMalt’s ingredients: malted barley,spring water, heat, yeast, timeand ‘magic’ - which the illustratorbrands ‘the secret thing whichmakes anCnoc anCnoc’.

The striking packaging designrepeats this image, transformingit into an eye-catching and boldblack ink pattern on the brand’strademark stark whitebackground.

The whisky inside is equallyspecial, containing a new

expression, hand selected byanCnoc Distillery ManagerGordon Bruce. Matured wholly inSpanish oak sherry barrels - afirst for the brand - the resultingdram is complex and satisfying,rich in colour with amberhighlights. Spicy fruit cakearomas combine with creamyvanilla and sticky toffee, whiletones of dark spices and driedfruits add depth to the flavour.

Peter Arkle commented, “It hasbeen an absolute honour to workwith anCnoc as a collaborativepartner on its limited editioncampaign. My dream job was to design a whisky bottle,something I mentioned less thana fortnight before anCnoccontacted me, and sitting in thedusky warehouses at Knockdhu Iknew I was on to somethingspecial. When I returned to NewYork my ideas took on a life oftheir own – and I’m both proudand pleased to see the results. Ihope to see whisky lovers far andwide, from the streets of Huntlyto Manhattan, enjoying a dram.”For more information, to viewthe film and for the full storyaround this remarkablecollaboration please visitwww.anCnoc.com

anCNOC REVEALS NEW COLLABORATION WITH


DRAM 11

NEWS

Bar staff with a passionfor whisky can nowtake advantage of anew training scheme.The Whisky AmbassadorProgramme, is the UK’sonly BIIAB accreditedwhisky training schemeand it has beenapproved by ILAScotland, the ScottishGovernment schemethat helps pay towardsthe cost of training. Soif you are earning £22Ka year or less, youqualify for the ILAassistance. Trainingunder the scheme,which is also backed byVisitScotland will beoffered at a series ofevents planned acrossScotland. The first onewas held in Glasgow inApril, while the nextevent takes place inInverness early in May.There are also coursesbeing run in Ayrshire,Edinburgh, Aberdeen,Perth, Dundee and

Oban. Victor Brierley, a

spokesman for WhiskyAmbassador, said, “Barstaff should be able totalk about what whiskyis, the colour, the age,the peatiness, thesweetness, and how ithas come to find itsway into bars all overthe world.

“They should be ableto tell customers wherea particular whisky isextinct because it isn’t being producedany longer and beknowledgeable andconfident enough toup-sell, encouragingpeople to try a malteven if it costs a coupleof pounds more than ablend.”

Details of thetraining scheme andavailability aroundScotland can beobtained by [email protected].

Whisky training schemegets government support

H ILLUSTRATOR PETER ARKLE


Whisky is heaven sent – but did you know that your star sign can reveal a lot about your taste for thestuff? We also look at how the summer months will shape up for all the signs… by Jason Caddy.

WhiskologyAries Brash, bolshie and fiery, this is a sign you wouldn’t trifle with, and the Ramlikes nothing better than locking horns with others in a heated debate. This summer theyneed to watch out for what is going on right under their noses.

Try a... Sheep Dip – fresh and spicy, with a hint of grassiness.

TaurusPlodding and predictable,Taurus like their homecomforts and dislike intenselyany disruptions to their

routine. Quality is also on thetop of the bull’s list so any whisky

that’s expensive and luxurious appealsto them. They also like indulging in all thesensual pleasure that life has to offer. Try a... Black Bull 12 yo – a blend with a realkick. And voted the best blended Scotchwhisky in the world in the class of 12 yo at the2011 World Whisky Awards.

Cancer The crab isn’t for letting go when they find something they like.They can also be quite frugal, so they are the least likely to push the boat out on apricey nip. Their minds will be racing with lots of grand ideas over summer, and thiswill attract lots of influential people into their lives. Try a... Old Pulteney – a malt with a saltiness on the finish.

GeminiWant to shoot the breeze?Find a Gemini, or two, asthey normally come inpairs. They also get boredvery easily, so they need lots

of stimulation and have aterrific sense of fun. Fickle and

promiscuous, they need a whisky thatkeeps them coming back for more. Thissummer lucky Jupiter moves into their sign, sothey could quite easily have the world at theirfeet. Try a... Johnnie Walker Black Label and make ita double.

LeoBig hair, a gallon of glitz,an attentive audience, ahearty roar oflaughter...Leo’s in thehouse. Any whisky that’swarming, glamorous orshowy is just the ticketfor this sign, and they are

always up for a laugh.Party invitations and all

manner of social gatheringswill keep them busy over summer.

Try a... Whyte & Mackay – the blend with the famousred lion.

VirgoThe fusspot of thezodiac won’t thank youfor anything less thanperfection. They are also

health-obsessed, so a nipwith medicinal qualities is right uptheir street. The next few months aregoing to be fun-filled, but it won’t allbe play, as career highs also look likely.If looking for love, a highland retreatand a bracing walk, followed by awhisky cocktail is the perfect mix.Try a... Laphroaig – the Islay malt withthe medicinal aroma.

LibraLibra can find it hard to strike a balance in their lives, but they think nothing of strikinga pose. Vanity is a subject close to their hearts, as is deciding, after endless agonising,on a tipple that is cool and sophisticated. Holidays in far flung locations are well starredthis year, as is a fling that could all kick off on a balmy evening.

Try a... Something rare and precious, like Glenfiddich 50 year old.

12 DRAM


FEATURE

DRAM 13

� FIVE EN-SUITE WHISKY THEMED BEDROOMS(ABERLOUR, GLENFARCLAS, GLENFIDDICH, GLENLIVET AND MACALLAN)

� FRESHLY PREPARED CONTEMPORARY SCOTTISH CUISINE

� FANTASTICALLY STOCKED WHISKY BAR � SCOTTISH REAL ALE � STUNNING VIEWS OVER THE RIVER SPEY � FISHING PARTIES CATERED FOR

For further information please contact:THE MASH TUN - 8 BROOMFIELD SQUARE - ABERLOUR - AB38 9QP

Tel: 01340 881771www.mashtun-aberlour.com

THE LOCHSIDE HOTELLochside Hotel & Duffies bar, a friendly family run 10 bedroom hotel with magnificent views overLochindaal from its very popular restaurant.

The hotel’s world famous lounge bar houses around 300 Islay malts.

Shore Street, Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7LBT: +44 (0) 1496 810244 F: T: +44 (0) 1496 810390

[email protected]

ScorpioThe Zodiac’s very own sex sirenhas a penchant for black and red.

Men born under this sign fancythemselves as the suave, ladykiller type,

and the women, the femme fatales. The like toappear seductive, and look for a nip with asting in its tail. Their careers are going to get analmighty shot in the arm from June onwards.Try a... Johnny Walker Red Label/Gold BeeWhisky Liqueur (Sting’s favourite).

SagittariusAlways on the go, the Centaur lovesthe thrill of the chase. They also hateto feel hemmed in or outmanoeuvred.Variety is the spice of life, and thisincludes whisky, and they like to monkey about.They’ll come into their own over the summertimeas Jupiter, their ruling planet, moves into theirrelationship zone. Any single Sagies could getsnapped up if they give in to love.Try a... Monkey Shoulder – a blended malt whichis light and summery.

CapricornThe mountain goat has a bit of areputation for being a bit of a stuffytraditionalist. Quality always wins

hands down over quantity, and thissign rarely loses their cool. Classic whiskycocktails are what they most likely to plumpfor. This year is all about a subject dear to theirhearts…work. And what better way to hammerout a business deal, than over a few drams?Try a... Ballantine’s Christmas Reserve – noteasy to find, but perfect for this. Christmas sign.

AquariusCold and aloof, the Water Bearerneeds something warming – evenduring the summer months, so adram really can be their water of life.Anything off the wall attracts them too, so when itcomes to choosing a malt, the wackier the better.Having fun in the sun and letting themselves go abit is their best plan of action this summer.Try a... Isle of Jura and apple juice.

PiscesYou’ve heard the expression ‘drinklike a fish’ - well it was made forPisces. They like to escape fromthe realities of the world around

them, and they are also incrediblycreative, and this is reflected in their

choice of whiskies. The summer months aregreat for making time for family activitiesand a few whisky chasers in the sun,although hydration is must.Try a... Highland Park 18 yo – this Orkneywhisky is iconic and is a one of the best allrounders.


14 DRAM

Lagavulin Distillery, Port Ellen,Isle of Islay, PA42 7DZT: 01496 302449www.discovering-distilleries.com/lagavulinSituated at the picturesqueLagavulin Bay, visiting the distilleryis an experience not to be missed.Distilling dates back to 1742 on the

site with Lagavulin becoming “legal” in 1816. The staff at Lagavulin takeas much care and pride in their work today as they did then and thisshines through in the high quality of spirit produced andmatured to become one of the world’s most iconic brands,Lagavulin 16 year old. Visitors are now welcomed 7 days aweek all year round to either tour the great distillery ortake part in one of itstasting experiences.

Lagavulin Distillery

Rockside Farm, Bruichladdich, Isle of Islay, Argyll PA49 7UTT: 01496 850 011 www.kilchomandistillery.comKilchoman Farm Distillery was founded in 2005 byAnthony Wills and is owned by a group of privateshareholders. It is located at Rockside Farm on theWest Coast of the famous whisky island of Islay andis one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland. A

proportion of its spirit is produced from barley grown, malted,distilled, matured andbottled at the distillery and when released as single malt, it will be the only Islay maltwhisky that can boast that it is produced 100% on Islay.

The first single malt was released in September 2009 and Kilchoman isnow exported to 30 markets worldwide.

A visitor centre, shop and café form part of theoperation. Tours are available Monday toSaturday at 11am and 3pm. The shop is openfrom 10am to 5pm.

Kilchoman Farm Distillery

Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd.Lochranza, Isle of Arran KA27 8HJT: 01770 830264www.arranwhisky.comThe Isle of Arran Distillery is located in thevillage of Lochranza on the north-west tip of Arranwhere it is perfectly situated to benefit from the puremountain spring water and soft sea air which gracethis beautiful island.

Established in 1995 the distillery has rapidly gained a reputation as one ofthe most dynamic in the whisky industry and was named as 'ScottishDistiller of the Year 2007' by Whisky Magazine. Visitors to the distillery canenjoy a full tour of the production process followed by a nosing andsampling in the tasting bar of our award winning range of single malts.

Isle of Arran Distillers

Glasgow


Tullibardine Distillery Stirling Street, Blackford,Perthshire PH4 1QGT: 01764 661 800www.tullibardine.comTullibardine is situated on the site ofScotland’s oldest brewery datingback to the 12th Century. In 1488 thebeer was bought for King James IV’s

coronation at Scone. The Distillery was converted in 1947 byWilliam Delme Evans, mothballed in 1995 and re-opened as anIndependent Distillery in 2003. Specialising inpremium quality, exclusive and rare single malts,

Tullibardine can be found on the A9 between Perthand Stirling in the village of Blackford. The various maltson offer come from the purest highland spring waterfrom the Ochil’s and are uncomplicated, light, fruity witha mellow flavour and are easy to drink.

Tullibardine Distillery

MAP

Glenfarclas Distillery, Ballindalloch,Banffshire, AB37 9BD, Scotland.T: 01807 500257 E-mail: [email protected] Grant, born in 1805, purchasedGlenfarclas Distillery for £511 on the 8th ofJune 1865. To this day, Glenfarclas SingleHighland Malt Scotch Whisky is distilled

and matured at the family owned and run distillery, which thanks to theforesight of the Grant forefathers, remains independent. Creating a greatmalt whisky is a time-honoured process. In the heart of Speyside, theGrant family have cherished the skills andtraditions of fine malt whisky making, handingthem down through six generations and they are

proud to share their secrets.

Glenfarclas Distillery

The Famous Grouse Experience, Glenturret Distillery, The Hosh, Crieff,Perthshire, PH7 4HA, T: 01764 657005 www.thefamousgrouse.comOnly one hour from both Edinburgh andGlasgow, The Famous Grouse Experience isperfect if you only have time to visit onedistillery. Sample Scotland’s favourite whisky atScotland’s oldest distillery Glenturret,

established 1775. Traditional production methods of single malt are still used todayand the distillery only produces about 150,000 litres per year.The Glenturret is used in the secret recipe of The Famous Grouse blend and

following the tour of the production process, visitors learn about thecomplexity of blending whisky in a new interactive zone.It is Scotland’s most visited distillery for a reason. Facilities include

a café, bar, gift shop, picnic & play area, free parking and meetingspace.

The Famous Grouse Experience

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w

Aberdeen

Edinburgh


What brought you into theindustry? I have spent the last 10 yearsworking in the industry forvarious companies, but whiskyis one of my first loves. I justlove the fact that whisky ismade in Scotland, and we doit so well.

What were you doing beforethe drinks industrybeckoned you? My father owned various pubsincluding Murph’sBarrelhouse, so I was brought

up with a drinksbackground. Butinstead of goinginto the pubindustry I decidedto travel the worldas a croupier. I didthis for severalyears before

coming backto Scotland.

Do people find it unusualwhen they discover that youare selling whisky? Some more traditional peoplesometimes ask me ‘what do Iknow about whisky’. Theysoon find out, that actually, Ido know my product. It helpsthat I drink it, and I’m alwayskeen to improve myknowledge. In factoccasionally I do a shift at thePot Still in Glasgow. FrankMurphy, who runs the pubwith his family, is a fount of allknowledge.

What does your role involve? My role is to ensure thatScotland’s publicans knowabout our brands –Glengoyne, Isle of Skye,Smokehead and Tamdhu. Iencourage them to dodifferent promotions and thedifferent brands appeal todifferent type of pubs. Forinstance Smokehead isassociated with morecontemporary bars such asTreacle in Edinburgh and TheBlythswood in Glasgow. WhileGlengoyne is a non-peaty maltwhich is has always beenfamily owned and my job is toraise awareness of it.

Do your friends drinkwhisky?It’s funny... my friendsthat work in the industrydo, but it takes a lot ofpersuasion getting myother friends to try it.But I have a dram everyother night.

What do you say to peoplethat say they don’t likewhisky? If they say they don’t likewhisky, I tend to respond bysaying it’s just that you haven’tfound the right one for youyet. After all, there are 97distilleries in Scotland. There isa whisky for everyone. I woulddefinitely recommend aGlengoyne and soda fornovices. This is what theJapanese drink, and it is a veryenjoyable, especially in thesummer.

What do you do in yourspare time?I’m a real gym bunny. I lovepushing myself. And I do a bitof personal training with myfriends and family. I also sharea dog with my mum, and I’ve acat…I love animals. In factthis year I am going on holidaywith my dad to a horse ranchin Montana. I can’t wait.

Where do you go tosocialise? I tend to socialise in the SouthSide of Glasgow, that’s wheremy gym is. But I also enjoygoing to Moskito on BathStreet and of course the PotStill. It has a great atmosphere.

What are you busyorganising at the moment?I am planning a cocktailcompetition for later in theyear. I hope to get lots ofbartenders involved.

Danielle Murphy has a passion for whisky and as Business Development Manager for IanMacleod Distillers in Scotland, she has a job she loves. She tells Wee DRAM why.

UP TO SPEEDON WHISKY

INTERVIEW

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DRAM 17


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WhiskyTasting

Our recent speed tasting events took place at theQueen’s Arms in Edinburgh. A great night was had by all.

Peter Gerard said, “This was a really interesting event. Ihave been to a few tastings before but I liked the idea ofthe speed tasting, and the hosts were so informative -These guys really know what they are talking about. Myfavourite tonight was between Auchentoshan, andBowmore although I really enjoyed some of the Peatiertasting malts. Smokehead was lovely - I was surprised athow much I enjoyed that one. Is it new? I can’t wait forthe next one, make sure you email me an invite.”


DRAM 19

“‘Very educational andthoroughly enjoyable! Wedrink Malts quite often, butsome of the Malts heretonight we had never triedbefore. Glen Garioch andSmokehead were new to us.I wish I had told more of ourfriends about this. ‘

Angus


SUMMER COCKTAILS

Ingredients2 shots CuttySark.2 dashesAngosturaBitters.1 barspoongomme (sugar)syrup.Orange peel.

MethodStir allingredients withcubed ice for 20seconds in ashort glass andthen garnishwith orangepeel.

Ingredients1 shot CuttySark.½ shot Bols TripleSec Liqueur.1 wedge freshlime.Lemonade.

MethodPour allingredients overcubed ice in tallglass startingwith the limewedge, give it alight stir andthen top up withfresh cubed ice ifneeded.

Ingredients50ml Maker’sMark.A dash ofCointreau.Top up withginger ale.A slice of orange.

MethodMuddle anorange slice in aglass with asplash ofCointreau andadd the Maker’sMark then top upwith ginger aleand stir. Then add ice.

Ingredients50mlAuchentoshanClassic.75ml gingerbeer.Mixture of freshfruit, mint, apple,fresh lime,lemons andoranges.

MethodJust mix it alltogether. There isno specialtechnique. Thenlet the fruit mixperfectly withthe citrusflavours ofAuchentoshanand add ice.

DRAM 21

CUTTY STORM

SUMMER BREEZE WHISKY-A-LOLO

CUTTY FASHION

COCKTAILS


As Scotland's oldest independent bottler we offerfamous and obscure distillery's whiskies bottled

without chill-filtering, without artificial colouringand without dilution from unique single casks. Try

before you buy. Tastings a speciality.

For a complete stocklist email:[email protected]

Open Monday to Saturday10.30am - 5.30pm

172 Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8BN

0131 556 5864

Food served all day. Fresh, local, Scottish produce.

Over 270 whiskies, premium wines and spirits.Daily Whisky Tastings.Private dining and events.

Specialist whisky shop “try before you buy”.Iconic views over Edinburgh.

Jazz on the Mound.

NEXT TO EDINBURGH CASTLE TEL 0131 220 0441 WWW.SCOTCHWHISKYEXPERIENCE.CO.UK

A SENSATIONAL JOURNEYNEW INTERACTIVE RETAIL EXPERIENCE FOR 2012


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WHAT’S ON11 MayBruichladdich Whisky TastingWhiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Craig Johnston fromBruichladdich will be hosting thistasting and talking gueststhrough a fabulous range ofBruichladdich whiskies. Thetasting takes places between6pm and 7pm. Info and ticketsfrom [email protected].

12 MayThe Spirit of Stirling Whisky FestivalThe first ever Stirling WhiskyFestival will take place onSaturday May 12. Doors open at11.30am and the last dram will bepoured at4.45pm. Book tickets forgeneral admission and masterclasses at Ealain Gallery or call01360 660996.

May 18Glenfarclas Whisky TastingWhiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Peter Donnelly from Glenfarclaswill be hosting this tasting. Theevent takes place from 6pm –7pm. Tickets cost £10. Info andtickets [email protected].

25 MayScotch Whisky Certificate CourseThe Scotch Whisky Experience,354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile,Edinburgh, EH1 2NEwww.scotch-whisky-experience.co.uk.�Spend a day “immersed” in theworld of Scotch Whisky with ourwhisky course. And gain the“Certificate of Expertise”recognised by the Scotch WhiskyIndustry. A mixture of hands on activitiesand different learning styles arecovered to make the dayentertaining and fun as well ashighly educational andinformative. Course Price :£165.00 For further informationplease contact Angela Keir on0131 478 7120. Also runs on the15th June and 20th July.

26th and 27th MayEdinburgh Whisky StramashSurgeon’s HallEdinburgh�This lively whisky events takesplace over three sessions andincludes everything from amurder mystery to a cocktail pod.For further information visitwww.thewhiskystramash.com.

25th May – 3rd JuneThe Islay Festival of Music & Malt Islay (see news pages)

25 MayBowmore Whisky Tasting Whiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Bowmore, Islay’s oldest distillery,will be hosting a tasting in thestunning venue of the WhiskiRooms on the 25th May. They willbe showing off their range andbringing along the limited batch3 Bowmore Tempest for yourlucky palates. Places areextremely limited so booking isessential. The event takes placefrom 6pm – 7pm. Tickets cost £20.Info and tickets [email protected].

1 JuneBurn Stewart Whisky TastingWhiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Whisky Tasting of the BurnStewart whisky range hosted byDes Hughes. The event takesplace from 6pm – 9pm. Ticketscost £10. More info and ticketsfrom [email protected].

7th JuneWhisky Tasting from Whyte & MackayWhiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Whisky Tasting of the Whyte &Mackay whisky range hosted byGraham Rushworth. The eventtakes place from 6pm – 9pm.Tickets cost £10. More info andtickets [email protected].

28th JuneBowmore Whisky Tasting Whiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Bowmore Whisky Tasting hostedby Paul Goodwin. The event takesplace from 6pm – 7pm. Ticketscost £20. More info and ticketsfrom [email protected].

26 JulyWhisky Tasting from Whyte & MacKay Whiski Rooms4-6 North Bank St, Edinburgh�Whisky Tasting of the Whyte &Mackay whisky range hosted byGraham Rushworth. The eventtakes place from 6pm – 7pm.Tickets cost £10. More info andtickets [email protected].

23 - 26 AugustJohnnie Walker ChampionshipThe Gleneagles Hotel,AuchterrarderJoin the European Tour atGleneagles, the home of the 2014Ryder Cup, as the Johnnie WalkerChampionship takes place inPerthshire.

WHAT’S ON

Whiski Rooms


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Flora Grant and Marion MacKinnon (picturedabove) decided to bring their financial acumento the world of whisky when they took over the

reins at the ten-bedroom Ardshiel Hotel inCampbeltown in 2010. Since then they have turnedthe hotel into a wee goldmine, transforming it into amecca for whisky enthusiasts at the same time.In fact, when they recently revealed the all-new

American oak and blue tartan reception, bar andlounge areas to the world, none other than RichardPaterson, mater blenderextraordinaire, made thelong trip to Campbeltownto lend his support. It’s a sad but true fact

that Flora and Marionremain a bit of a curiosityin what is a maledominated world ofwhisky. Explains Flora, “It israre to have female whiskyenthusiasts, and it stillhappens that customerswill look beyond us for a man in charge, or somehave even been known to ask when we are gettingthe bus home after a shift working behind the bar!She continues, “We very quickly realised once wequit our former jobs that there was a lot more to thisbusiness than we first imagined. Finding the olderwhiskies can be hard work and it all requires asignificant investment. But this doesn’t scare us aswe are extremely passionate about whisky, plus itisn’t going to lose its value.”Marion continues, “We have 480 whiskies on

display and we have another 500 or so to pull out,although some of these are duplicates. Theredevelopment has taken two years and as a result,locals have been following its progress. And from

when we opened I think it has reignited a lot ofwider interest in the town.”The reception area and bar/lounge now boast a

sleek new look with American Oak wooden doorsand finishes next to a ‘Stuart Modern Blue’ tartanpattern on what are padded wall panels. There arealso cabinets displaying some of the more exclusivebrands, and the ladies are rightfully proud of whatthey have achieved. Says Marion, “We are now most definitely on the

whisky trail in this part ofthe world and we get a lotof business on the way toand from the localSpringbank Distillery.Campbeltown has a greataffinity with whisky, andthe hotel itself is an ex-distiller’s house and thetown used to have around34 to 37 distilleries. Nowthere are three, and wehave a good relationship

with them all, particularly Springbank.”She continues, “Tourists flock here, and we also

take block bookings from whisky groups andschools, and run a monthly whisky club with about40% women, and we are looking to set up a secondgroup shortly. We are always trying to encouragenew ways of drinking whisky, and we have GingerGrouse on tap, so we are working on a long drinksmenu, too. Matching whisky with various foodcourses is a terrific growth area for us at themoment, especially as we move into summer. Withwhisky there is always something new to get excitedabout.”The Ardshiel Hotel, Kilkerran Road, Campbeltown.

Tel: 01586 552133. www.ardshiel.co.uk

New look for The Ardshiel HotelHow did Flora Grant and Marion MacKinnon go from working in the Financial Services sector inGlasgow, to running a whisky hotel and bar in Campbeltown? A Wee DRAM investigates.


WHISKY WONDERLAND & HOP HEAVENTHE POT STILL is in the Heart ofGlasgow, halfway up Hope Street, in themiddle of the Mild West (West Georgeand West Regent).

Keep an eye out for it, as behind anunassuming front is the jewel in the citycentre. The shelves glimmer and gleamwith a welterweight of wonderful whisky,from all four compass points of Scotlandas well as the four corners of the globe.

Whether you’re a tired shopper lookingfor peace and repose in the heart of adram, a penitent pilgrim pondering apreponderance of pearls of the bestbarley can boast, or just a punter wantinga pint of hand-pulled craft ale, The PotStill can fulfill your heart’s desires.

We host a varied programme of whiskytastings, including ladies tastings.

THE POT STILL154 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 2TH

Tel: 0141 333 0980www.thepotstill.co.uk

Follow us...

T WEE DRAM 6 30-4-12 v2_WEE DRAM 01/05/2012 16:03

““““

Chris Miles -Black Cat, Edinburgh“

“

I am really into the Glendronnach 15 yo at themoment. It is quite a unique style and a maltyou can drink anywhere. It’s just lovely.

DRAM 27

Alec Dyson andDavid Smillie -Booly Mardy’s,Glasgow

Frank Murphy – The Pot Still, Glasgow

BARTENDERS’CHOICEThe Wee DRAM spoke to some of the people working in Scotland’s best bars to find out whatwhiskies they choose when they are on the other side of the bar.

FEATURE

We are both fans ofCompass BoxHendonism at themoment, because ofit’s smoothness. It’sa grain whisky, sohas no malt orbarley. It’s reallyeasy to drink, and isbest served neat orwith a cube of ice.

I like strong flavours, so I’menjoying the odd TeapotDram by Glengoyne. It’s abig bruiser! It’s got a bit ofsmoke, a bit of sherry - it’sjust right.


In May Speyside comes into its own with theSpirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. But that’s notall there is to Speyside. Wee DRAM gives you the

lowdown. There are more distilleries in Speyside than

anywhere else in the world, and it is hardlysurprising that one of the world’s best whiskyfestivals takes place there. There are around 50distilleries in the area, and only 80 in the whole ofScotland. In this area you can, particularly duringthe Spirit of Speyside Festival, visit many of thedistilleries, but they are not all open to the public,so it’s always best to check beforehand.

But where exactly is Speyside? Some considerAviemore, which is best known for itsskiing and new yearcelebrations, the entrypoint - from here you cansay that you are inSpeyside.

The area is named afterthe River Spey, which, incase you didn’t know... is thesecond longest river inScotland covering almost 100miles. It is also renowned forits fine trout and salmonfishing, some say it has thebest salmon fishing in the land,that’s why you will find so manymen standing in the river withwaders on.

But more importantly the Spey alsolies at the very heart of the whiskyindustry. Some of Scotland’s finest distilleries arefound all along the Spey. Towns in the areainclude Aviemore, Grantown on Spey, Elgin, Forres,Fochabers and Keith as well as Craigellachie,Aberlour, Dufftown and Rothes.

The key event in the area’s calendar is The Spiritof Speyside Festival which invites visitors tocelebrate Scotland’s national drink through aninventive and wide-ranging programme of whisky-inspired events – some educational, all of themfun. For instance you can bottle your own cask atGlenglassaugh Distillery, enjoy a Nip around ofgolf, take in whisky and dolphins and take part in

the Ultimate BlindTasting with Gordon &MacPhail. There are loads of other events as welleach of them lending itself to promoting whisky.And if you didn’t manage to make it this year, thereis always next.

But there’s also the Speyside Kiltwalk in May.Aimed at keen walkers, The Speyside Kiltwalk onSunday 13th May 2012, is a 26 mile walk throughSpeyside. More than 380 participants are expectedto take part in the walk through the region whichstarts at the Moray coastal town of Buckie, towardsthe Cairngorm Mountains to Aberlour. And it’s all

for a good cause – supporting a few ofScotland’s children’s charitiesincluding Clic Sargent and CHAS.Participants in the event will bealso joined by two local pipebands along the way, while thearoma of sizzling sausages andthe musical interludes of alocal folk group is expected tolure participants to the finishline at The Mash Tun inAberlour, where everyonewill be rewarded with a BBQand unique Kiltwalk medalas well as a miniature ofBenromach TraditionalSpeyside Single Malt Scotch

Whisky from the sponsors.(Adults only). Each distillery produces a ‘single’ malt

whisky. The word ‘single’ tells you that itcomes from a ‘single’ distillery. Some single maltsdon’t get bottled as malts in their own right,instead they are mixed with grain whisky to makea blended whisky for instance Johnnie Walker orChivas Regal.

The Speyside · Strathisla, Keith, oldest distilleryin Speyside

Benromach – is the smallest distillery in the areaWhile the two best-selling single malt whiskies

in the world, The Glenlivet & Glenfiddich hail fromSpeysideMore information on The Speyside Kiltwalk can be found at www.thekiltwalk.co.uk.

28 DRAM

SpeysideA spirited

Famous for its whisky and its beauty - the Wee DRAM pays a visit to Speyside.

FEATURE

AberlourBalvenieBenromachCardow (Cardhu)Dallus DhuGlenfarclas

Glenfiddich (free)Glen GrantGlen MorayThe MacallanStrathislaThe Glenlivet (free)

DISTILLERIES IN SPEYSIDEREGULARLY OPEN TO VISITORS

(most charge a nominal fee)


DRAM 29

1001 WHISKIESThis weighty book takesreaders on a whisky tour of theworld providing insights intothe best and most excitingwhiskies ever made, fromestablished classics likeScotland’s Springbank toemerging greats from Japan.Dominic Roskrow is theeditor of the book, while JimMurray has written anentertaining foreward. Itcosts £20 from all goodbookshops and is publishedby Octopus.

GLENGOYNE SPECIALLIMITED EDITION ‘AULD ENEMY DRAM’The Auld Enemy Dram has been launchedto recognise and celebrate the greatsporting rivalry that exists between thetwo great nations of Scotland and England.The Glengoyne 1990 Single Cask bottlingmakes the ideal gift for Father’s Day with itsrobust nose and powerful palate. It has arich mahogany colour with a heavy androbust nose and the palate has hints of redapple, raisins, wafer cone and subtle citrus.It’s currently selling at £175 per bottle(reduced from £195 for Father’s Day), TheLimited Edition Glengoyne ‘Auld EnemyDram’ is now available to buy at Vino’sEdinburgh stores and online atwww.vinowines.co.uk or atwww.glengonye.com. All proceeds fromsales of The Limited Edition Glengoyne‘Auld Enemy Dram’ go to support Help forHeroes and The Bill McLaren Foundation.

BREAKFAST’ WHISKY HAMPERWhy not order your father a special hamper which includesthe likes of malt whisky, fudge, shortbread and whisky cake. You can buy it online at www.gretnagreen.com.Prices from £41.50.

GENERAL EDITOR

DOMINIC ROSKROW FOREWORD BY

JIM MURRAY

YOU MUST TRY BEFORE YOU DIE

Wondering what to get your father for Father’s Day? This year it takes

place on 17 June… but these gifts would be good all year round. PERFECTGIFTS

GIFTS


BenRiach 12 year oldColour: RichamberNose: Aromaticpeat with fragranthints of honey,fruit and mellowoak.Palate: Peaty withcomplex fruityhints, mixed withheather, nuts, oakwood and spices.Finish: Driesslowly withtempered spicyoak.

Ardbeg 10 year oldColour: Deepgold.Nose: Sweet, withsoft peatsmokiness andcarbolic soap.Palate: Intense,yet quite delicateon the palate, withburning peats anddried fruit,followed bysweeter notes ofmalt and liquorice.Finish: Long andsmoky finish.

anCnoc 12 year oldColour: Rich copper with amberhighlightsNose: Rich and spicy fruit cakearomas are complemented bycreamy vanilla and sticky toffee.Mild notes of freshly pickedgreen apples are accentuatedby a touch of blood orange zest.

Palate: Sun-driedraisins and honeyemerge, followedquickly by vanillaice-cream with hotcaramel sauce. Finish: Round andlong, on the darkside of the fruit.

BowmoreDarkest Colour: Reddishcopper.Nose: Floral withtinges of smokyoak.

Palate: Floweryperfume gives wayto nutty maltiness.Finish: Smoothwith echoes oftoasty malt andliquorice.

Springbank 10 year oldColour: Goldenhoney.

Nose: Sweetchilli andcharcoalmingling withcloves.Palate: Chalkyand malty withflashes ofnutmeg and alingeringsaltiness.Finish: Long,chalky andperfumed.

Benromach Peat SmokeColour: DarkstrawNose: Initial softfruit notes blendwith a subtlemedicinal edge.Sweetnessgraduallydevelops with adelicate antisepticedge.Palate: Subtlesaltiness, with aroundedsweetness. Somesmoke emerges

and a touch of spice lingers inthe background.Finish: Long and sweet.

The Dalmore 12 year oldColour: Darkreddishbrown.Nose: Sweetmalt, orangemarmalademixed withsherry and ahint ofleatherPalate:Initially driersherry taste,thoughsweetersherrydevelops,along withspice and balancing, delicate,citrus notes.Finish: Long and spicy withginger, lingering Sevilleoranges and a suspicion ofvanilla.

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.

30 DRAM

NOTES


www.isleofskyewhisky.com

Isle of Skye encourages RESPONSIBLE drinking


A Wee DRAM # 6

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