My love of Scotch

It seems like just yesterday that I was on the whisky trail in Scotland. A trip forever embedded in my soul. There's something wildly romantic about Scotland - from the rugged countryside dotted with limestone crofts to the heartwarming pubs filled with friendly people. And the tartan, oh my! - it's everywhere and in every color. Made from the finest local fabrics, these tartans are soft and durable and can be found in throws, pillows, bedspreads, curtains, capes, hats, tableware and more! Mixed and matched, they are stunning, like the country!

But let's get back to the Scotch whisky. I became a Scotch drinker in my twenties. I found it was the only alcohol I could drink in a corporate setting and keep my head on straight. I know many think it's an acquired taste, but for me, it was 'instant love'! So much so, that I travelled to Scotland to learn more about this golden drink.

When a friend suggested a Scotch tasting this summer, I jumped at the chance to host one in my back yard. It was loads of fun (and, I think we got a few converts out of it)!

The key to an effective tasting, is to offer Scotch from the four main regions of Scotland - the Lowlands, Highlands, Speyside and Islay. I started us off with a blend just to show the difference between a blend and a single malt.

I listed our Scotch on a menu board. Others in the group brought their favorite bottles as well - we had plenty of Scotch for sure!

We walked through the tasting steps to fully experience the complex compounds of each bottle. We chatted about adding a drop or two of still water to unravel the compounds, and just had fun exploring the flavors from the different regions.

We had fun determining our favorite and ranking them as we went along. 

We reveled in the warm glow of friendship and good cheer!

And to no one's surprise, we laughed well into the night!

There are some great online sites that will walk you through hosting your own Scotch tasting event. Remember to start with the right glass, a varying selection of Scotch whisky, some nibbles and good friends! Cheers!

Until next time,

la chasse au bonheur