I sampled Glengoyne's 17 Year Old tasted at Nihon recently. Glengoyne, located North of Glasgow, is known for a slightly more unique approach to its Highland Malts, they use air-dried barley instead of peat smoked dried. Hmmm...no peat? I have to admit, there was a little skepticism mixed in with my curiosity upon learning that. The Nose: … Continue reading Glengoyne 17 Year Old – Review
Ardbeg & Graeme Obree
One more reason to love Ardbeg, as if I needed one... Scotsman Graeme Obree is one the most enigmatic cyclists to throw a leg over a bike. He won multiple world championship titles on the track and set the World Hour Record, by some considered the purest record in the sport, twice...on bikes largely designed … Continue reading Ardbeg & Graeme Obree
Cragganmore 12 Year Old – Review
Quick notes on the Cragganmore 12 Year Old tasted at Nihon, who has a fantastic collection. Nose: Sherry oak, grapefruit, vanilla, a little rum cake...but most importantly, Juicy Fruit gum, and I mean that in a good way. A complex embracing nose. Palate: This one attacked the palate more than I expected, it was strong … Continue reading Cragganmore 12 Year Old – Review
Upcoming Bay Area Whisky-related Events
There are a few (too few? yes, possibly) whisky-related events in the Bay Area coming up...soon: Domaine Select Classic & Vintage Artisanal Spirits Collection Road Show is travelling around the country and hits San Francisco this week. This seems like a rather industry-centric event. Among other artisanal spirits, they'll be featuring the Death's Door Line and Tuthilltown … Continue reading Upcoming Bay Area Whisky-related Events
World Whiskies Awards 2010
The full list for Whisky Magazine's 2010 World Whiskies Awards is up here. Along with Ardbeg's Corryvreckan winning World's Best Single Malt Whisky, a few other notable winners: World’s Best Blended Whisky Hibiki 21 Years Old World’s Best American Whiskey Rittenhouse Straight Rye 100 proof Best American Whiskey - Bourbon George T Stagg Best Irish … Continue reading World Whiskies Awards 2010
St. George Single Malt Whiskey
Metaphorically speaking, there comes a day for all of us when our need for water forces us to confront the dragon guarding the spring and offer it a goat or a sheep or something in order to get a few precious drops. Then there are those really bad days when you can't find a goat … Continue reading St. George Single Malt Whiskey
St. George Spirits, Alameda, CA
We might be fast approaching the golden age of "micro distilling". With the many law changes over the last several years in many states, it's become a lot easier to set up a still and make some excellent small batch hooch. Add to that a growing market that's interested in locally made, quality booze … Continue reading St. George Spirits, Alameda, CA
Ardbeg Fans: A Tsunami-like Horde.
This quick report from Deadline Scotland on Ardbeg's Rollercoaster release day website troubles was kind of amusing. A "horde of whisky fans"...somehow conjures up images of crazed, bearded, malt-lovers with faces painted blue hurling bottles of Clan MacGregor if they don't get the good stuff. Come to think of it...that sounds pretty accurate. Also, there's this article … Continue reading Ardbeg Fans: A Tsunami-like Horde.
James Beard Semifinalists
Well, since the Olympics are happening, might as well throw some food & drink awards into the mix as well. The James Beard Award semifinalists were announced today. Among the nominess, there were a few of whisky-related note in the Outstanding Wine & Spirits Professional category: Clear Creek Distillery, Portland, OR Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, … Continue reading James Beard Semifinalists
Whisky Cocktails at Bourbon & Branch
There is no surer sign that this whole cocktalian revolution has gotten out of hand than the two small jars of homemade bitters infusing in my kitchen as we speak. I can barely get out the door without someone shoving some rye & whipped egg-white combination in my face. Cocktails unearthed from the Crimean War featuring … Continue reading Whisky Cocktails at Bourbon & Branch
THE CASKS 