tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15006827067910556262024-02-07T05:50:00.525-08:00WHISKY LASSIE, the one and only...My musings on everything whisky. Mostly serious but with an added flare and sense of the ridiculous sometimes... Of course my opinion is my own, who else's would they be??Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.comBlogger203125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-37497314106241988062020-01-22T12:34:00.002-08:002020-01-22T12:34:20.915-08:00Kingsbarn Dream to Dram / Wemyss Nectar Grove - reviews<div style="border-image: none;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3q0bvmoOfM4KBk1yTfvNIagyNLezUjQIuFOsJGJ0V6Lu16NObqa7ROResVERgSEO4mi_Fx6AiRbUsd3w8zUbE2cGBhUb6LFRBFTKR-8lrHtPhuGdXWSbVs9k4Vy09i5VjpOst3r-E0IL/s1600/closet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3q0bvmoOfM4KBk1yTfvNIagyNLezUjQIuFOsJGJ0V6Lu16NObqa7ROResVERgSEO4mi_Fx6AiRbUsd3w8zUbE2cGBhUb6LFRBFTKR-8lrHtPhuGdXWSbVs9k4Vy09i5VjpOst3r-E0IL/s1600/closet.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The whisky "Wo-Man cave"... is full and bursting at the seams!? December 30th 2019 and I'm taking down the little bit of Christmas decorations I had put up. I realize my front closet is full, so I open the doors to my whisky cave and it looks like a hurricane hit it... Bottles recently purchased still in bags on the floor, no room on the shelves or credenza, drawers so stuffed with sample bottles they don't close anymore... I make a promise to myself - I gotta clean out this place and start drinking this stuff! Clean I did. I organized the room a little better, gave a few bottles away and proceeded to go through all the samples I had - 122 to be exact! How the heck do I end up with so many samples!?? The answer my friends - kindness of #whiskyfabric friends. It's pretty much tradition when abroad or at festivals to trade samples, bring sample bottles and go home with way more than you showed up with!?? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">With 2020 came a few goals:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">1. Run a 5k and 10k (what the hell was I thinking)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">2. Write a blog once a week until Dec 30th/2020.<br />3. Drink at least one whisky sample/week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">4. Travel to Scotland and just "be" a tourist. (Not sure that is even possible?!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">5. Stay in touch with and be more active with many of the whisky friends I've made over the last 13 years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">SO far... I'm doing pretty good on these goals. I'll keep you in the loop on how I'm doing! So another way to drink said samples: REVIEW THEM! </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVq07ca2RYm23HGz9JYfksTC5fVyB-ukmR63rKdMNt8tMZj-6RD6gnEGTxvEh9bHm-Z7E7eO8VEWxyfYxKvVz4EjqepcqSYC6B1q7jSqJUdOU3ovyRf2GXaXLPPviqZu-79fLgI3aTd8V/s1600/Time-for-review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="580" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVq07ca2RYm23HGz9JYfksTC5fVyB-ukmR63rKdMNt8tMZj-6RD6gnEGTxvEh9bHm-Z7E7eO8VEWxyfYxKvVz4EjqepcqSYC6B1q7jSqJUdOU3ovyRf2GXaXLPPviqZu-79fLgI3aTd8V/s1600/Time-for-review.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">A few weeks ago I created a spreadsheet (yes I'm that OC) and I have 24 samples ready to review for the year. May not sound like much but it's a good start. I thought this week might be a great time to review two whiskies from Scotland. Related but not from the same distillery per say.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Whisky #1 - Kingsbarn Dream to Dram Lowland Single Malt, 46% ABV</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Whisky #2 - Wemyss Malts Nectar Grove Blend, 46% ABV</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Both samples were given to me by my lovely friend Jacqueline Sutherland (and I do really consider her a very good friend!) during my last trip to Scotland in October 2019. It's not often that we get to spend quality time so I was really chuffed when she and I got to spend half the day chatting over a lovely lunch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">On with the reviews, shall we:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">The first whisky is from a modern distillery that has only been in existence for less than 5 years. Owned by Wemyss (Brother and sister duo), it stands on the reputation of their many years of blending and creating independent bottlings. If you want to read more about Kingsbarn, click here: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I like to take my time when I review whiskies. This one I did over the course of a Sunday afternoon and revisited it on a cold Wednesday night the following week. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Nose: I gathered from the get go this spent quite a bit of time in ex-bourbon casks: Delicate aromas of newly cut hay, meadows and fresh cantaloupe. Quite elegant and inviting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Palate: Not at all like the nose, this is zesty lemon peel meets gingerroot with an oaky/resinous backdrop. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Finish: Not overly complicated but quite a satisfying sweet herbal flavour, sort of like chewing on spearmint leaves. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">On Wednesday when it was colder I had a much bigger appreciation for the lingering heat and gingery sensation the whisky was leaving behind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I can't help but wonder what I would have thought this was had I received a blind sample. Not sure I would have considered it as a whisky that was younger than 5 years old, especially with that very lovely nose. I remember tasting the newmake when I was there in 2016 and thinking if this sits in the rights casks they are going to have a cracker of a whisky. Well... it's lovely. I look forward to seeing/tasting what else will come out of Kingsbarn.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Whisky #2 - Nectar Grove from Wemyss</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I'm always fascinated with the names of some of the whiskies that Wemyss comes out with. VELVET FIG... say no more!!! I don't look up anything about the sample when I'm reviewing so I sort of expected some sort of wine or sherry finish. This did not disappoint!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Nose: I immediately detect pumpkin compote (how do I describe that to English people!?) It's like a pumpkin/citrus spice (it has a bit of cinnamon/cloves) marmalade. My mouth watered almost immediately. After I let it sit for a little while and again on the Wednesday evening, I found much more vanilla and a weird freeze dried strawberry smell - not unpleasant just didn't make sense to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Palate: In French we have a word that describes silky but also "thick" - Onctueux. For a moment I was a bit nervous as I was worried it was going to be sickly sweet but it was not. The right combination of oily, silky, sweet and the feeling I had popped golden raisins that had been soaked in rum in my mouth. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Finish: Warm but then slightly tannic, again not expecting that. A few minutes later, a warming sensation from the inside out... this, especially on Wednesday was a lovely winter warmer whisky.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">It wasn't until I was done my notes on Wednesday that I went to read up on the barrels used and to my surprise Madeira casks are used. I'm not usually a fan as I find the influence leads to a really sweet, wine gummies, artificial flavour'ish… NOT THE CASE with Nectar Grove.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">If you are looking for something new and interesting to try I would certainly recommend either of these whiskies. Thanks again to Jacqueline for sending me home back to Canada with some very unique and special whiskies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Next week I'm on vacation in Antigua (don't hate me) so I will be writing a blog about sand, rum and beaches. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Cheers from cold and snowy Canada,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I remain: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Whiskylassie </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-7312894076958514312020-01-14T10:27:00.000-08:002020-01-14T10:27:07.898-08:00To be or not to be... terroir is definitely the question!<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I will start by saying this: My educational background is a scientific one and marketing bullshit never sat well with me. I've debated with people in the past about things like the following: "You'll find a briny flavour in our whisky because the barrels age in the warehouse next to the sea". In that case my argument is that many whiskies should taste like cow dung and dirt since their warehouses sit near farmlands?? I hope you get my point. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We hear all sorts of statistics and statements from whisky people like: The wood is where most of the flavour comes from. I've seen percentages such as 60, 75 and even 80%. "Where" are they getting that statistical information? Mmmmmmm….. I have good reason to believe that it is pretty much based on one person's quote back in 1998 and everyone else sort of ran with it because I have yet to find "scientific" evidence to actually show that this was measured? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoC7B22aDA1QrQn4TUGtddk08fmHfp_vU67cdU9ghwR2lkjd-40bi0BSrrB6GctNXREcRdyAe5ex-Ni3yZC83uJP6YG4ai3qEGAtaCCXwwfE8tNbGL0uiG8a2-JYa1O5FPblS_EU_1oQPW/s1600/falling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="896" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoC7B22aDA1QrQn4TUGtddk08fmHfp_vU67cdU9ghwR2lkjd-40bi0BSrrB6GctNXREcRdyAe5ex-Ni3yZC83uJP6YG4ai3qEGAtaCCXwwfE8tNbGL0uiG8a2-JYa1O5FPblS_EU_1oQPW/s400/falling.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Hold on tight Alice because I'm about to bring you down the rabbit hole, Ready!?? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Let's fast forward to my visit to Waterford Distillery in Ireland - October 2019. <span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">I arrived at 10:00am and spent the next six hours experiencing something I called (and tweeted) as: MIND FUCKERY. I'm going to out the elephant in the room and likely ruffle feathers, raise hair, you name it but until you have gone there and done the Waterford Experience for yourself I truly don't care what anyone says/thinks about my blog or their opinion on what Mark Reynier and his team are doing at this distillery. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">TERROIR... there, I SAID IT!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Now everything I knew about distillation and what happens during that process is from my own university texts books. Basically and I'm really simplifying it: Distillation "strips" most of the flavours from any grain (and I did say most) because malted barley taste different than rye, corn, sugar cane juice and/or fruit distillate (pear, apple, grapes). So obviously the origin of the material used has to remain otherwise alcohol would simply taste like... well rubbing alcohol? The argument was/is ALL barley yields the same type of spirit. I'm going to take a moment to paraphrase the response from an industry person in a Facebook thread (To which the originator - a whisky author, was making fun of the possibility of the existence of terroir, tsk tsk… closed minded in my opinion). The industry person added something like: "At our distillery, we buy various varietal malted barley from different geographical locations from a number of suppliers and yet we maintain a consistent new make from crop to crop". In other words - terroir does not and cannot exists. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">How about we consider the following:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Mark Reynier and his team at Waterford have embarked on a journey. It's called the whisky terroir project. It's in conjunction with many partners including Dr. Dustin Herb, PhD Plant breeding and genetics out of Oregon State University. How about you click on a few links and actually read, watch, with interests what they are actually doing at this distillery before you so happily discount any/all of it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><a href="https://waterfordwhisky.com/element/the-whisky-terroir-project/"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">https://waterfordwhisky.com/element/the-whisky-terroir-project/</span></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So is Johanne McInnis, aka Whiskylassie a believer in the possibility of "Terroir" in whisky. My answer is <u>yes</u>. Hold on now, don't go all out crazy on me just yet. I do, honestly believe after seeing, watching, nosing, tasting when I was there in person that it is possible. Am I the only one? You might be really gobsmacked to know others also feel there is something very interesting and quite unique going on at the Waterford Distillery in Ireland. Serge Valentin, someone I have never had the pleasure to meet but who is known worldwide as one of the most honest Malt Maniacs recently reviewed two of their products: <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.whiskyfun.com/#020120">http://www.whiskyfun.com/#020120</a></span></span></span><br /><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So back to Mr. Reynier. His background is wine and everyone knows there is definitely terroir there. Terroir (btw) is climate, soil type and geomorphology (natural landscape). Wine is not distilled, it's fermented - hence terroir is accepted and proven. This term is not just used in the wine industry. It's being studied in coffee, tobacco, chocolate, hops, maple syrup and cannabis just to name a few. So why are so many whisky people up in arms about this? Why is this so preposterous and unimaginable that it might just be studied and discovered in barley?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Might I remind people that most are inclined, as humans, to simply be sheep and follow whatever gospel (no religion overtones when I use this word) we hear. More now than ever because you know, if it was on Facebook - it must be true!? At one point it was believed that planet earth was flat. Pythagoras stated in 500BC that it was round. For almost two hundred years people refused to fully believe that statement and it wasn't until Aristotle (300BC) gave scientific evidence that it was indeed round, that people slowly began to shift their way of thinking (mind you there are people in this world who still think it is???)<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqAK01e5aP1gV-4Gr9ESUBX-nMkLyR5VZnXt2SjI0EqiUW7S6lZWV5j_FOHLhn7eWBD_nstAvfpRK5plaPtiA5FkAs9k_-ill2qep2G092-HczO3w1UijUA2YiWw7UML0sGLmorZ9iXS4/s1600/crazy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="248" data-original-width="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqAK01e5aP1gV-4Gr9ESUBX-nMkLyR5VZnXt2SjI0EqiUW7S6lZWV5j_FOHLhn7eWBD_nstAvfpRK5plaPtiA5FkAs9k_-ill2qep2G092-HczO3w1UijUA2YiWw7UML0sGLmorZ9iXS4/s1600/crazy.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">For those of us old enough to remember, in 1982, a couple of virologists from Australia stated they had proven that a bacteria caused most stomach ulcers and that antibiotics would cure the issue. Again - cries from the scientific community that these two were absolutely nuts!? Yet... they were right and might I add won the Nobel prize for medicine in 2005 for it. </span></span></span></span></span></span><div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">So here is a thought... why don't we all give Waterford Distillery the benefit of the doubt and actually let them do their thing. Is "terroir" the right word to describe what they are trying to accomplish and prove, maybe not... but who are we to judge? I mean seriously... and what if there is scientific proof at the end of the project that clearly demonstrates there are differences in where/how barley is grown in climate/soil/landscapes - wouldn't that mean that there is even more reason to celebrate the fact that innovative experiments might be possible (because lord only knows a new beer cask or quadruple casking is NOT INNOVATIVE)!!!!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><div style="border-image: none;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I firmly believe something amazing is about to hit the market when it comes to Waterford, so much so that we invited them to come to Cornwall Ontario Canada - Wonderful World of Whisky Show and let me tell you, everyone who is going to be at that show is not only happy but excited to be some of the first to attend the "Waterford Distillery Experience Road Show".</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Whether you believe or not in Terroir is none of my business however, don't go off half cocked or full out bat shit crazy mode... just yet.... Trust me on this one, you might be a little more than surprised when the evidence comes to light and there is proof that something exists in the way that barley is grown that we simply don't know about... just yet...</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Madman or genius??? Who knows... all I can tell you is that years ago when the industry tried to bury Mark Reynier, they didn't realize all they did was plant a stronger seed. He is a man on a mission, and ladies in gentlemen of the whisky world - let's hope it takes way less than previously mentioned examples for the rest of the us to open our eyes to the possibilities that lie ahead. To Mark, Ned and Ian - Keep up the hard work!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Until next week, I remain...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Whiskylassie</span></div>
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Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-21910555023743971562020-01-08T08:15:00.000-08:002020-01-09T05:54:04.025-08:00Review of sCorn whisky from Last Straw Distillery, careful this is a quirky little Canadian<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVok46X8C2C9Hqvtz9-LfjJ6UgGnTzshdjb5PbJ2JoiAzcDHIYyq34pG2LAjCOpWzF48Vqhxfrlc4NOUwQKvSom8krzo7t03kJVMAedrDnQ-Qxgzc7tIziGgM8y9vZ0C9x9mJ74doYVXX/s1600/2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNVok46X8C2C9Hqvtz9-LfjJ6UgGnTzshdjb5PbJ2JoiAzcDHIYyq34pG2LAjCOpWzF48Vqhxfrlc4NOUwQKvSom8krzo7t03kJVMAedrDnQ-Qxgzc7tIziGgM8y9vZ0C9x9mJ74doYVXX/s640/2020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It only seems appropriate, after naming the iconic Canadian Club 42 as my 2019 whisky of the year, that I start the new year with a proper review of a whisky from one of our youngest Canadian distilleries - Last Straw. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wrote about them almost 5 years ago when they were literally building their establishment. Since that time they have gone from a temporary location to their current site in Vaughan Ontario and from part time production to running a full time operation. It's been an interesting journey for father and son duo. Here is my first blog about them:<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><a href="https://whiskylassie.blogspot.com/2015/03/what-would-be-your-last-straw-don.html">https://whiskylassie.blogspot.com/2015/03/what-would-be-your-last-straw-don.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Don was kind enough to send me a whisky they created that he feels is quite unique not only in flavour but it's "raison d'être". He thanks<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"> the Toronto Distillery for that. When they were still operational, they contacted Don and offered him a batch of 100% organic sprouted corn (hence the name sCorn). </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWztynIShwNyLFEpio7ZpbjGab0aG9YCjXYvwVatysz7anf8BEXwEhZbYnNKRTxVZGcBmjHFX6N74u6mmYS-2f-GkVvzHUDaoUwthaSYnN-U0EbFKO4N3Wk5EtmKo8kxYapf6YWQIXI5ai/s1600/sprouted+corn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="474" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWztynIShwNyLFEpio7ZpbjGab0aG9YCjXYvwVatysz7anf8BEXwEhZbYnNKRTxVZGcBmjHFX6N74u6mmYS-2f-GkVvzHUDaoUwthaSYnN-U0EbFKO4N3Wk5EtmKo8kxYapf6YWQIXI5ai/s320/sprouted+corn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><strong>Sprouted corn kernels</strong></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Charles literally said, if you don't want it we will likely throw it out because we simply can't use it right now. Don immediately said</span> yes and picked it up. The spirit that came off the still was something quite different in Don's opinion so they decided to age it in virgin oak casks. Three and a half years later, sCorn was bottled. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The first thing I did was read up on their website about the whisky, then I did a bit of research on sprouted corn. There are a few distilleries in Canada that make 100% corn whiskies, JP Wiser's 18 is a fine example, and upon a bit more research there are quite a few American craft distilleries that use sprouted corn (malted) to make their whiskies.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">What does make sCorn unique? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">1. It's locally farmed 100% organic sprouted corn, AN<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">D</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">2. This is a single cask release (although it doesn't state so anywhere on the bottle)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0cCiupuWNijrGoISBrl6J8tjJgNc0QiENSctXOLPozEXeNZE3Hi7zh-_4dyIBnHvHZgg09WeolOpLRVQfKiHKdP48UsKStjGbXv_DrA9K1u8mydxu1p6f87cbbIQwu1iGqpjmAF8tVKX/s1600/laststraw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0cCiupuWNijrGoISBrl6J8tjJgNc0QiENSctXOLPozEXeNZE3Hi7zh-_4dyIBnHvHZgg09WeolOpLRVQfKiHKdP48UsKStjGbXv_DrA9K1u8mydxu1p6f87cbbIQwu1iGqpjmAF8tVKX/s320/laststraw.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Bottled at a respectful 49% ABV. I sampled it over the course of a few days, letting it sit for a while as well as adding a bit of water. It was a nice feeling to be back at the simplicity of sitting with a whisky, making notes and enjoying the experience of connecting with it for its aromas, flavours and finish. Now I'll be honest and I'm not telling anyone who knows me anything new when I say... It is rare that I'm a "virgin oak" maturation fan. Not that I find them offensive by any means, they are simply not my favourite whiskies. Don and I had a great conversation about virgin oak and how some people absolutely love it while others like myself struggle. The nose/mouthfeel is so distinctive I can pick them out on blind samples. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">sCorn - Last Straw Distillery, 49% ABV</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Nose: Sweet but fresh pencil shavings, apple juice, with some fir tree sap (that's the sign of virgin oak maturation for me right there). <span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">With a bit of time and a few drops of water: A lot less astringent, with a more creamy vanilla profile. Can really smell the grain better now.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Palate: A bit of a surprise, I found it a bit harsh (again I struggle with virgin oak), but after the first sip and a bit of water I found the flavours evolved into desiccated banana chips with a dryness of toasted hazelnut skins. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Finish: High ABV = burn, long simmering one. With water it became more of a peppery/chewed on a mouthful of cinnamon hearts at the same time sort of heat. Quite the winter warmer! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">It's not a very complicated dram, but overall it is certainly an interesting whisky and concept. I had a few friends try it last week (one who is a really big virgin oak/bourbon fan). At first he didn't believe me when I told him what this whisky was matured in, but in the end he stated he really enjoyed the very different "weirdo" whisky (his words - not mine... ;) <br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">F<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">or anyone who lives in Canada - it's only available online or at the distillery itself. At $60/bottle for a single cask edition whisky - Worth the try if you want a simple but different sipping whisky. For the rest of the world... sorry: Only in Canada my friends - Pity!</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.madebyhand.laststrawdistillery.com/product-page/scorn-whisky">https://www.madebyhand.laststrawdistillery.com/product-page/scorn-whisky</a></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgELJjyHsFRbNc5P1RMHuXwo4w_PL0V1AexCGPN9ENp_KXtrztaCcTPF0QeZVavkfYOE-7UBGhyphenhyphen-qPO6QLKIG7D81C4HTZVJILv_l-DUiX0kddxLIUoPw8bUZT_JwVCi-RQxAQZLHe2Mdz/s1600/different.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgELJjyHsFRbNc5P1RMHuXwo4w_PL0V1AexCGPN9ENp_KXtrztaCcTPF0QeZVavkfYOE-7UBGhyphenhyphen-qPO6QLKIG7D81C4HTZVJILv_l-DUiX0kddxLIUoPw8bUZT_JwVCi-RQxAQZLHe2Mdz/s1600/different.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">I want to thank Don Dimonte for sending me this quirky little sample. <span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><u><span style="color: red;">Please don't ever stop daring to be different at Last Straw!</span></u> I really enjoyed starting off my 2020 blogs with this one. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Next week on Lassie's blog: My 2019 mindblowing trip to Waterford Distillery in Ireland. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Until then, be safe my friends and enjoy your journey, wherever it may lead...</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Lassie</span></div>
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Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-62864426942176193492020-01-01T11:48:00.007-08:002020-01-01T11:48:53.418-08:00Lassie's best of 2019 - top 10<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As with everything in life, some things change and some things stay the same. Even if I'm not writing or reviewing whiskies, I always keep a spreadsheet of all the whiskies I try over the course of a year. The average is somewhere between 300-350. That also takes into consideration whisky festivals, tastings, traded samples and of course the drams that just seem to "happen". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So let me get straight to the point. I travelled a little more than usual in 2019, it afforded me some really amazing opportunities and drams. I was a little surprised though when I tallied the spreadsheet and found the number was 421 for this past year. I didn't think I had tried as many as I usually do so to see the highest number I've ever recorded astonished me. I went back through photos which of course creates a "what did I do this year" sort of album. WOW... I certainly was busy. Friends, family, sailing and of course "whiskying". Blessed, is all I can say to be so lucky for the people that I surrounded myself with in 2019. Here are the top 10 whiskies with justification:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#10 = Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008, 57.9%ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have loved Benromach pretty much since my introduction to it. I chose this as number 10 for 2019 as I feel it was the best value for money whisky I purchased. Cask Strength 10 year old for less than $100.00 where I live in Canada. It was a lovely whisky that didn't feel "hot", was complex and from nose to finish quite lovely indeed. Recommended by Bill Somerville in Halifax NS (February).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#9 = Bowmore Vault Edition 2 Peat Smoke, 50.1% ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bowmore 15 is a staple in my whisky collection. It's usually the first one I will reach for if I'm thinking of introducing someone to an Islay whisky. While visiting Bowmore distillery this year (October), we were given a "surprise" dram. Blind tasting notes that day: Palate: Not the usual Bowmore I'm expecting. This is "different". Palate: Super smoky and ashy (Cold fire place/damp). Finish: Long, wet shale rocks, quite smooth. Voting this one my "this is what?" whisky. It was quite the surprise indeed to find out which one it was. Happy to have shared it with Sarah Wilson on our Islay trip.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#8 = Teeling Celebratory Single Pot Still, 46% ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Probably the absolute best UNICORN moment of 2019 as a whole. Traveling with my friend Amanda through Ireland and we were at a Slane whisky tasting we had been invited to. We went to eat right after the event and looked at the bar menu for whiskies (of course) and she saw that particular bottle. Asked how much a dram would cost. The bartender stated the bottle was not to be opened. Now, as North Americans, this did not make sense to us. Whisky bottles behind the bar that were never meant to be opened?? After some discussion, and forgive my memory but somehow the owner of the restaurant/hotel got involved and Amanda (who I swear has a horseshoe) talked her way into the manager going to check if he might have a sample that her/I could try. I sat with my mouth completely agape as I watched the 50ml sample bottle arrive at the bar with a few small glasses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ok so why is this a unicorn: Highly recommend you go to the Teeling website and read it for yourself. It was a stunning little dram, given to us out of the kindness of a whisky geek's heart. Best unicorn for sure!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#7 = Jameson Irish Whiskey Caskmates Beau's, 40% ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">By far my favorite, holy crap am I ever a lucky lassie whisky for 2019. Jameson's has been doing beer finishes for a few years now but we got wind in late 2018 that a Canadian exclusive would be coming to Ontario (I don't live there...) I mentioned it to my friend Dan Vienneau who was also itching to find some and between the two of us, the "hunt" started. By end of February I had secured an entire case (YES... you read that correctly). A few bottles for Dan, the rest for me. About 3 days after I had my case, it was gone - sold out and most people (unfortunately) did not get any as it disappeared almost overnight. It's an amazing Jameson's finished in Beau's Brewing Co Strong Patrick Irish Style Red Ale. This was my "STEAL OF A DEAL" whisky for 2019. I still get an email from time to time from reps at Corby's asking if I can sell them back one of my bottles. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#6 = The Whisky Agency, Montreal Whisky Club Ledaig 11 year old, 51.5% ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have been saying, blogging and talking about independent bottling for years. It's no surprise how many I have in my personal collection. This one however is quite special because it was a gift from someone who has come to mean so much to me. I get "him" and he seems to get "me" too. We have developed a lovely friendship that's not just whisky based. There is a long story as to how this bottle came to "be" and I won't bore you all with the details. All I can say is thank you Larry for making 2019 was one of the best filled with many memories of the times we have spent eating, drinking, chatting, laughing, driving, concert going but most of all simply being great friends. Fabulous whisky I've opened and shared with many other friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#5 = Jack's Pirate whisky, cask #214a, First fill Moscatel - 60.3%ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And the winner of wackiest wonderful whisky goes to this one. Also an independent bottling of an Islay whisky (no disclosure of which one but I have a suspicion) and when I first tried it with Igor Kossov, my mouth fell open. Why... because it smells like the Kennebecasis River... Me being a sailor and having a whisky called Jack's Pirate whisky = Beyond serendipitous. I absolutely loved this whisky, so much so that I've squirreled it away and seriously only take it out on very special occasions (which is not usually what I do). This was truly a weirdo whisky and I'm pleased beyond belief that I have a bottle (well what's left of one... ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#4 = SMWS 71.47 Citric spicy whisky lassi, 60.5%ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Imagine my surprise when my very good friend and mentor Emmett Hossack presented me with a bottle of this for no reason than: "It's got my name in it (sort of)... the running joke is that it likely describes me to a tee: Citric/spicy... The best part of receiving this bottle was popping it open and having it empty within 72 hours. New record for fastest emptied bottle. I tweeted about it and of course talked about the whole experience to several friends. Less than 6 months later a second very good friend gave me a second bottle with the caveat that I drink it a bit more slowly this time and maybe actually have three or four dram of it myself. Thank you Tom Frederick and Emmett Hossack for making a whisky lassie feel pretty special in 2019.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#3 = Glenfiddich Grand Cru 23 year old, 40%ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Scotland, Ireland, Portugal and London... 3 weeks, one carry on case. Talk about limiting what you can buy and take home. I was adamant I was only buying ONE whisky bottle and I would wait until I went to London to get it. Glumly I walked about on that last day and found nothing that really was speaking to me. The next morning we made our way to the airport and I was almost in a foul mood about it. I had passed up so many great possibilities while I was on vacation. Now, the funny thing is I NEVER buy anything in Duty free... it's always a "meh" sort of experience for me, well not this time. I was browsing, just sort of walking around while the boy was trying gins when a young salesperson said would you like to try a Glenfiddich... No thanks I said, I've tried most of what you have here. Have you tried the 23 year old grand cru. No, I replied so of course he started with what I would consider the "sales pitch"... Sounds lovely, I said politely but I can't even consider putting that much coin down without tasting something first. Well he said, and he popped the bottle open right then and there. He and I discussed whiskies for the next 30 minutes and I was fortunate to try several more lovely whiskies from Balvenie as well. I splurged... I don't usually buy whiskies on a whim like that. I loved it. It was a really fabulous dram and the conversation with this person was beyond great as he was a bit of a whisky geek as well. I walked onto the plane with my "Duty free" sealed bag and couldn't have been happier. This was my "I'm worth" buying a nice whisky for $$ every once and awhile for 2019. NO REGRETS</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#2 = AnCnoc 16 year old cask strength, (No idea what the ABV was)</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am not only blessed, but super fortunate to have made so many friends in the industry from around the world. One of the people I keep in touch with on a regular basis and ensure I visit just about every time I'm in Scotland is Gordon Bruce. For those of you who have no idea who that is, he is the distillery manager at Knockdhu. Another of my favorite discoveries many years ago, and also always a staple in my collection. In March of 2019, we had the fantastic opportunity to bring Gordon over to Canada to the Wonderful World of Whisky Event in Cornwall Ontario. He had never been to Canada before and I was more than excited to show him our true Canadian hospitality. Again, super fortunate to have received a small sample of an AnCnoc that wasn't on the market yet but that would be coming out for the latter part of 2019. IT WAS STUNNING... it was one of those dream drams that you just sit with and no matter even if you tried to take notes you simply don't because it's a whisky to enjoy. PS - I bought a full bottle of that whisky in November. It's a keeper!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>#1 - Canadian Club 42 year old Chronicles Issue 2, 45% ABV</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tish, Tish, Tish... our queen, our whisky matron, our grand dame. Last year when the 41 year old came out I thought it was good. When Celinda said: "Johanne, you can't miss Tish's class this year, she's pouring the 42 and I said to myself, it can't be as good as last year... sequels very rarely are. Well, let me eat my words. I described this one with all honesty and delight as a CANADIAN RYE BOMB... that's a first for me. I love Canadian whisky, that's no surprise but this 42 year old had the kick and youth that I was not expecting. Well played CC, well played! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nose: RYE spices, can really smell the char on the nose (surprised), with distinct butterscotch and ginger. Palate: More spices: Allspice, ground ginger, molasses cake and sweet brown sugar. Finish: Burn baby burn, but a sweet long one like drinking a spiked hot chocolate. DELISH... Now that is a real RYE BOMB!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now I'm hoping that you'll note one key part of each of my top 10: They all happened either through, because, with or recommended by a friend. When I look back I see all the wonderful people in my life and how imperative it is that whisky is shared because the experience is what is cherished, not just the liquid. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Honourable mentions: Chris Jones - probably the most gobsmacked I've ever been when I opened my birthday present of that Glen Keith you arranged to get for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Steven Alexander, that surprise Glen Grant 1963 kept me smiling for days. Thank you for sharing that with me on your birthday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tom Frederick, every time I see you, you hand me a whisky sample. How can I not be thankful for all the lovely stories and drams.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Amanda Caissie, you are my dearest bourbon geek and I can't tell you how many times I've appreciated sitting at my place or yours just enjoying the whiskies we've purchased and all our amazing chats. There are too many "unicorn" whiskies to mention for 2019 but the majority are due to your quests, horseshoe and passion for the lovely elixir we call whisky.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Benoit Bailey, your healthy obsession with Littlemill has been passed on to me. I love all the great samples you give me and my confession is I love drinking them in the tub (sorry for the visual lol). They are an amazing "relaxing" dram!!! Gros merci xox</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ned Gahan, my goodness the whiskies I tried while at the Waterford distillery, STILL BAFFLES ME. (Blog to follow on this one because wow...)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And to the rest of you who I spent time with in 2019 (Way too many for me to mention) but thank you for enlightening, lifting, laughing, sharing and keeping me mostly sane... You have no idea how much your friendships mean to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">May 2020 bring more drams, friendships, laughter but most of all memories that I have grown to cherish, remember and appreciate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheers,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
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<br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-23878460654951648492019-12-24T06:57:00.002-08:002019-12-24T06:57:21.606-08:00Best of 2019 - North American Edition<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiSMn8iPqHdspOAwc4KKwWB0RqB4cQUau0BSUq-SVj-RB9W-YiAJfrfgiNcgcux3Sb7EftsedwS3YOY6xQNCQ9sAipI88ymE3l7zpobOeZtR2Z1NcFExSdDYWVFLRAGbsHD0j_s_ABYRV8/s1600/excited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiSMn8iPqHdspOAwc4KKwWB0RqB4cQUau0BSUq-SVj-RB9W-YiAJfrfgiNcgcux3Sb7EftsedwS3YOY6xQNCQ9sAipI88ymE3l7zpobOeZtR2Z1NcFExSdDYWVFLRAGbsHD0j_s_ABYRV8/s400/excited.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the fun parts of being a whiskylassie is getting to know people from all over the world. I often get contacted through social medial platforms or simply by email sometimes with pictures of bottles people have "found" in a cellar (usually after a family member has passed on). They are looking for an opinion of how much the bottle might be worth and if they should keep or sell it. I would have to say that the majority of the time, the bottle is not very old or the market is still quite saturated so it isn't getting much at auctions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My best USA whiskey discovery of 2019 was through one of those emails. A very good friend contacted me to ask whether or not a couple of bottles he knew about were worth anything. I asked for photos from all aspects including the cork area (they often have seals with more information). I immediately started doing research and found that this one was a "nugget"... and I was quite excited.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">The bottles (there were 2) in question were Old Ezra 15 year old bourbon, 101 proof. At first I wasn't finding much about it but started talking to people like Chuck Cowdery and a few others. Internet research likely showed it was distilled in the late 50's and bottled in the 70's. One bourbon expert was positive (due to the Wisconsin tax sticker) that it was indeed distilled circa 1958. I WAS ECSTATIC! I went back to my friend and announced the good news. A little while later same friend came back to me and asked if I knew anyone that might like to buy them. Just so happens I know plenty of bourbon fanatics so I immediately said yes for sure but then I had a "moment". I decided then and there (even if I'm not a big fan of most bourbons) that I was going to be one of the two people buying those bottles. (BTW: My friend Benoit later clarified it was likely bottled in the 80's so not as old as we had initially thought.)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUY-HLe2DD8RQHsUI8L9mDBeYjxpGuTlCaRLM7Gq4RYLyx6HKN5laE3pC9bbLWTQRit8L2zueIoJp5ET5WW9yBOGN-3lqvKnZ6FH8iG3OZR2gB-pSr3wi2hRf970Nhst7D5xv30tVl8jIE/s1600/Old+Ezra.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUY-HLe2DD8RQHsUI8L9mDBeYjxpGuTlCaRLM7Gq4RYLyx6HKN5laE3pC9bbLWTQRit8L2zueIoJp5ET5WW9yBOGN-3lqvKnZ6FH8iG3OZR2gB-pSr3wi2hRf970Nhst7D5xv30tVl8jIE/s400/Old+Ezra.png" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I bought it in February of 2019 with the intention that it would sit in the whisky room for quite a long time. You know... the usual - well I'll open it for some special occasion nonsense we sometime make ourselves believe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">However, as fate would have it... a friend came over on April 30th for supper and she announced that her legal separation process had officially started. What better reason to open a good bourbon, and open we did. She and I sat there, in awe of the beautiful bottle we just opened. Heaven... in a glass.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Nose: Hot apple pie right out of the oven: Fruity with hints of cinnamon. A little more time in the glass reveals date squares, a bit nutty too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Palate: Sweet, spicy with lots of caramel. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Finish: Long, silky and then dry. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">If I didn't know better you would think this bourbon matured in a sherry cask?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">As with many good/fine whiskies I open I have a tendency to share them with the people I know will appreciate it. So to Adam, Chris, Chris, Chris, John, Tom, Amanda, Benoit, Sean, Igor, Mike, Cameron and so many more... thank you for helping me finish the bottle off by November 22nd of this year. She was a beautiful bourbon that was worth every penny I paid.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">NOW... the Canadian whisky discover of 2019 goes to something completely different. Also received in February, this one comes from a recommendation of a fellow whisky writer/blogger Jason Hambrey (@jasonhambrey). Now I'll attach the following disclaimer: Many smaller distilleries that have recently popped up across Canada (not all but many) source their whiskies from a larger one somewhere west and then sell it as their own. This usually leaves me skeptical from the get go because a) bad marketing or worse b) they decide to add an extra "finish" by putting the sourced whisky in a cabernet sauvignon or virgin barrel or... whatever... All I can is GAH... There have been some really horrible whiskies (IN MY PERSONAL OPINION so don't write me hate me please) that have recently come out on the Canadian market. However, Jason was pretty much on the ball with this recommendation and I was quite grateful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Signal Hill Canadian Whisky, 40% ABV.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">What surprised me about this one is that it's 95% corn / 5% malted barley and even more of a surprise is that the sourced whisky spends some time in virgin white oak barrels (I'm usually not a fan). This one, I really liked. The price point is quite affordable and it's an easy sipping Canadian whisky. I received a bottle at the end of February and it was empty by March 28th. Yah... it's that tasty! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Nose: Pleasant, very aromatic (doesn't smell like what I know Canadian whisky often smells like), a bit of spice, not aggressive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Palate: Spicy, oak but not over-oaked. Reminds me of hot apple cider with oranges/cloves in it. Very lovely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><br />Finish: Medium, mellow but then a big finish of peppery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Quite a nice sipping whisky indeed! Available throughout Canada, Illinois US and some shops in the UK.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">If you want to know more: </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.signalhillwhisky.com/">https://www.signalhillwhisky.com/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">So those were two of my most favourite North American whisky discoveries for 2019. Next week: My top 10 whiskies of the year. Have a lovely holiday (whatever one you celebrate)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><br />Cheers from </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
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Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-39619990681582690202019-12-16T10:45:00.000-08:002019-12-17T12:02:13.844-08:00Dementia, beaches and top rum discovery of 2019<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLk2QHWmtIZ_9JJWwqSQ9gYxhSUZOthfqda6OyQNa-ZvnUKx-chNRPvNz_LEsM6xkKT9mqjy64kPysmwkJQh5uCe7SCMYynGGBTHIhkR6dvoyHt3pruxYzONEo8fvtMB0cBytPBFXvoty/s1600/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLk2QHWmtIZ_9JJWwqSQ9gYxhSUZOthfqda6OyQNa-ZvnUKx-chNRPvNz_LEsM6xkKT9mqjy64kPysmwkJQh5uCe7SCMYynGGBTHIhkR6dvoyHt3pruxYzONEo8fvtMB0cBytPBFXvoty/s320/image1.jpeg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At the end of May 2016, my father and I celebrated our individual milestones: He turned 80 and I was soon turning 50. I wrote a blog and the last thing I mentioned was: "May you live another great 20 years as well as dance with me when I turn 70". Less than three months later, dad was in an assisted living home, on my 52 birthday he didn't know who I was anymore and on January 3 2019, he passed away peacefully in his sleep. Fuuuuck….</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Look at those smiles: Nora, Lisa, Donna and Johanne</span></strong></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As mentioned before, this past year rocked me to the core of who I thought I was and "what" life was supposed to be. I felt vulnerable, scared, angry but most of all I felt robbed. During the shit storm I forced myself to find the positives: Moving into my own place, learning to cope with things I can't control or change and connecting with some positive and very strong women (AMEN MY GINJA SISTERS)! <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And of course Miss Maci Michelle Romaniuk. My goodness if ever you need to move out of a hellish depressive state, hang out with little people!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So back to January 3rd 2019. Calling my brother to tell him dad had passed away - hardest thing I've ever had to do (tears in my eyes just writing that...). Everything that comes after death, albeit a mind numbing exercise, moves you forward: Dad's last wishes, what funeral home to call, cremation, calling his brother and sisters, my mom, my kids, what to do with his things, donations, obituary, etc... Two days later, everything was in place, decisions made, and that... was that... I retreated (as I always do) in the solitude of my own pain. I didn't want anyone telling me how sorry they were, I didn't want hugs or any kind of human connection. Then came writing the eulogy. My father was not an easy man to be around. My parents separated when I was 9. He was an alcoholic who floated into and out of my life for many years. How do you write those things in a eulogy!? I write, it's what I can do really well (I think anyway...) so I did, and did it truthfully.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-MwZId91MruL3nXe56TUpwbKRTGsg7tbxKynmX4QQchP6dHfb_IwJgLHZs4_-BkW12S2MUoyYDQdnAIiHUryLH1X-EL_lFEdSWS8DiKAx6tS7VOsQVz_Dm2xg_IaTzDJoVq7EyNluR9Wy/s1600/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">January 10th 2019 - the boy took me to Varadero, Cuba. Smartest thing he could have done. Within a few hours I had shed my winter garbs and I was in shorts/flip flops. We lazed, sat by the pool, danced, ate and toured but most of all I woke up early every morning and watched the sunrise on the beach alone. It gave me that complete solitude I desperately needed. At first it was simply some self reflection. The ability to look back at the year and say: WHAT THE FLIPPING FREAKING FLYING <a href="mailto:#@*&">#@*&</a>! But as the week moved on, my mornings were more like: Breathe, wow, I'm good, blessed... "we" got this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, I recall telling the boy about a week before we were leaving for Cuba that I wasn't much of a rum drinker nor was I a cocktail/drink all day next to the pool kind of person. Varadero and our resort was amazing. The day trip to Havana - stunning! My highlight; however, was visiting a sugar cane plantation and tasting local rums. I'm not talking bar rail. Small batch (Not 10,000 bottle releases), Cuban "Ron". The country has about a dozen rum distilleries, The better known would be Havana Club, Perla del Norte, Santero and Santiago de Cuba just to name a few. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My first rum was enjoyed in a coconut milk, nutmeg pineapple something something (Literally drank that at a small little shop on the side of the road), then after that I went all IN, trying every single different rum I could find at the resort and anywhere we went. We stopped at "La Casa del Ron" where the majority of the rum was Havana Club, which of course employees were giving out free samples of. I turned that down politely and started asking questions about the other rums they had up and behind the counter. They literally let me try about 7-8 of the different rums and retrieved their "top rum" guy. He and I chatted and sipped beautiful Cuban rums for the next 45 minutes. I was in RUM heaven. So of course what does a whiskylassie do when she's found another delicious spirit to enjoy: She buys 5 bottles!!! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRpL_cqkNOvQtUMK9w1IF11-C9k-uUXmnRZlTagWj1mT5Q6hhEZCp0TOo7mWePsbynvuU09RzpQPN_f3JcOnoyfrGVxlXP2LrKKqMsYl47EqPzuSN9TmGrTEu8jQ33mcXNRfjI9MLlAJx/s1600/image5.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlRpL_cqkNOvQtUMK9w1IF11-C9k-uUXmnRZlTagWj1mT5Q6hhEZCp0TOo7mWePsbynvuU09RzpQPN_f3JcOnoyfrGVxlXP2LrKKqMsYl47EqPzuSN9TmGrTEu8jQ33mcXNRfjI9MLlAJx/s200/image5.jpeg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rum cocktails became a "poolside" delight back at the resort: Cubata, Rum punch, Mojito, Canchanchara, Daiquiri, Pina colada and my favourite in the evenings - just served on ice to sip at. I think I only had one scotch the entire trip and don't ask me what it was as I have not a clue. RUM was queen on the island and I was more than willing to learn, relax and enjoy her companionship and beauty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have bought many other rums since that glorious holiday in January 2019, my whisky room is a little more diverse now. I've also acquired a few rum books, highly recommend Dave Broom's: Rum, the Manual and have learned to master several fabulous cocktails. It's an interesting journey that I find myself on. I highly doubt that I would have ever really even liked rum like I do now had it not been for the boy's desire to get me out of dodge for a week. I've learned that everything does really happen as it's suppose to and that like every other great spirit I've discovered over the last few years, rum was meant to be part of my "repertoire" and to my wallet's dismay yet another rabbit hole I was meant to fall gracefully down!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YzUSkLdMpMYMvAdo-6e02sphFk3XEB6aWf1h4uuaDKpf0UR4TuNo_jUOXzOFTrGoHJJdx25tt4kGJjLq5Mg9WTGRYaduW9Ja0WtBTZUL_9Upn8CFDT1Sq65OfZzgcKi2IO9GnCxex_PD/s1600/image4-2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YzUSkLdMpMYMvAdo-6e02sphFk3XEB6aWf1h4uuaDKpf0UR4TuNo_jUOXzOFTrGoHJJdx25tt4kGJjLq5Mg9WTGRYaduW9Ja0WtBTZUL_9Upn8CFDT1Sq65OfZzgcKi2IO9GnCxex_PD/s400/image4-2.jpeg" width="300" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My rum discovery pick for 2019 is Ron Santiago Anejo Superior 11 year old. It is a molasses based rum and even though it's colored I find it quite tasty in a rocks glass on ice. After a discussion with a barman at a local hotspot in Varadero, I saw this bottle up on the shelf and asked him if he had ever tried it. I was advised that although many of the locals would recommend it, it was far too expensive to buy a full bottle on their salaries. So, I bought he and myself a dram. His shift was ending soon, so he thanked me profusely and I watched a little later how he simply sat with it at the end of the bar, savoring every sip. I do love to share even if not through #whiskyfabric... </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nose: Spicy gingerbread pudding with lots of brown sugar notes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Palate: Explosion of Bananas Foster, cinnamon and ripe golden pineapple.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Finish: Warming, silky and a touch of peppery.</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Only bad thing: Not available in Canada (the 12 is in Quebec) but can be found on a few UK web sites.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I really do enjoy Cuban rum. It's a staple in my collection and I love introducing it to people. As of late I would also like to thank Dan Vienneau at Hopscotch Whisky Bar in Saint John New Brunswick. For the first time in my life I tried a rum soaked (errr I mean spiced) eggnog and it was fabulous! One of my latest favourite rum recipes that will certainly be enjoyed over the Christmas holidays. Cheers Dan!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's to January 2019, to my dad (wherever you are dear sir) and to the white sands of Varadero. The biggest thank you goes to the boy (Chris), for taking me away and starting the new year with much needed rest, reset and memories that will last us a lifetime.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-18290187534512471542019-12-11T12:57:00.002-08:002019-12-11T16:51:44.085-08:00Phoenix... and I don't mean the Snow one<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today marks a special anniversary. Not once but twice. Both, unfortunately, negative in nature. <br />
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However, I digress...Number 1 question from January 2018 to October 2019 = Why are you not blogging anymore?! I would often answer: "Nobody reads my blog, I don't have any added value, there's plenty of other blogs that have way more to say than mine, etc..." The reality though was everything around me had come crashing down and being "whiskylassie" was the last thing I wanted or needed to do.<br />
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Quietly I moved through the motions of what ever this thing called life... is. It took lots of smiling on the outside but also closing the doors sometimes and focusing on what was really important - simply surviving the next 5 minutes or the next three hours or the next day. I lost people that I truly loved in my life, some to death and some due to divorce. I changed jobs (Stressful when you are on the back nine and see the retirement goal post on the horizon). I relinquished things I thought I needed in my life: Car, house, boat, etc... And all I could say for the better part of that first six months of chaos was: Here I am starting all over again. FUCK was a word I had come to use as easily and likely more often then spoon or toothbrush.<br />
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But as with all descents into the darkness we all go through as humans, so exists the flip side of the sine wave. Grand daughter arrived, my "own" boat materialized, friends I didn't realize I had were not only my safety net but became family to me. The job change ended up being the best thing for my career and in hindsight so was the divorce. Slowly the scars, the hurt, the stupidity and the need to close that door and swear until the air was blue simply faded away. I have a new "puzzle" to put together and instead of fearing the fact that I have no idea what the fuck is going on most days, I embrace the joy of the unknown and have learned to simply "b". Then one day, I think it was October 11th 2019 - when I found myself getting back in the car after touring the Waterford Distillery in Ireland, I felt giddy and inspired. As I started to make my way back to my hotel room I suddenly found myself writing an article in my head as I drove. I literally stopped the car on the side of the road for a moment and cried. Whiskylassie may have been going through the motions, hosting classes and attending festivals but again - SMILES EVERYONE SMILES!!!! (For those of you too young to get that - Google Fantasy Island). For the first time in almost two years, I felt lassie'ish… Coquette in nature, yet somewhat ready to write about whisky once again. Wow... and about time.<br />
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So let's start with the basics shall we: What the hell have I been doing? LOTS... WARNING: I have developed a taste for GIN (My apologies to all whisky enthusiasts who may be highly offended by that statement). I also love rum apparently -> See what happens if left to my own devices?! My boyfriend (yes I have a boyfriend now - but from here on end he will be referred to as "the boy" - FYI. However... my first love is still - ALL things whisky. <br />
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Life has been good. It's taken me awhile to feel a sense of normalcy, to feel like I belong again. It's sort of like being the awkward kid that moved away but then came back and everyone says Hi but... it's awkward regardless. So here I am, just a girl, errr I mean woman... errr I mean lassie looking to start writing again just for the fun of writing whisky stuff. Will it be read - who knows. Will it be classical disaster chick meets shenanigans meets life as a whisky person - oh hell ya! Do me a huge favour though don't expect - BORING... or MARKETING REGURGITATION or SERIOUS - dear God don't expect serious....?! Read the whisky bible if you are looking for serious ;)</div>
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I'm back, that's all that matters for now. I am making a commitment to write a blog every week for the next 55 weeks. So sit back, read, giggle, share or comment. Whatever it is you feel like doing once you get "here" is fine with me and wherever you are on your own journey - congrats for making it this far. <br />
Whisky brought me to this place, it's introduced me to a world of places, friends and of course drams that I could have never imagined. I raise a glass (it's only water mind you but I'm raising a glass none the less) to the next 55 weeks.<br />
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Lassie<br />
<br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-21387663808491945802019-04-01T08:47:00.000-07:002019-12-18T08:08:01.569-08:00Mark your calendar for 2020 - Wonderful World of Whisky Cornwall Ontario<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwskbIRFpMkOKRZCY_spwpKBFQKsuMq7C4GtXOU0kwT21zAovwSFHZDuXDVmiEvz1mB6kUcWtvxa2oXeisKjig-IWyUCOxVZDAeQ8Oazw8vVSIDwtEITfTpVR_vhDRyuZH4AW9GBEGor4R/s1600/cornwall.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="624" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwskbIRFpMkOKRZCY_spwpKBFQKsuMq7C4GtXOU0kwT21zAovwSFHZDuXDVmiEvz1mB6kUcWtvxa2oXeisKjig-IWyUCOxVZDAeQ8Oazw8vVSIDwtEITfTpVR_vhDRyuZH4AW9GBEGor4R/s200/cornwall.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> CORNWALL, ONTARIO and the Wonderful World Of Whisky - 4th Edition. <span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">In November of 2016 I was presenting at the New Brunswick Spirits Festival when a jovial tall man approached me afterward and introduced himself: Ian Bentley. "I want to put on a whisky show in Cornwall in March of 2017", he said matter of factly. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">My immediate thought was </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJEXQeQxYub723qM6ytzC5xLoJHaLGtKKcehj_t2MmM9eDQs85nbUT0SmdrAFf4kz7WKxNRNGvFT4-AcCiby6XuYURlhJ8WaWtnXC4qrPYawFPWeQ5aLEDs5oRzicglX3-yScSo8XwF4N/s1600/crazy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="480" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJEXQeQxYub723qM6ytzC5xLoJHaLGtKKcehj_t2MmM9eDQs85nbUT0SmdrAFf4kz7WKxNRNGvFT4-AcCiby6XuYURlhJ8WaWtnXC4qrPYawFPWeQ5aLEDs5oRzicglX3-yScSo8XwF4N/s320/crazy.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">However after the 3rd very successful wrap up on March 23rd 2019, I'm going to say he and his team are absolute geniuses and here is why:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">a. Sell out three years running.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">b. People travel from all over Canada to attend.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">c. Some of the best and brightest names in the industry are there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">d. Master classes for every walk of whisky enthusiast taking place.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">e. Innovative ideas, dinners, classes and very interesting opportunities at this show.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Now, if you've never been to the Wonderful World of Whisky you are clearly missing out because it isn't like most of the other whisky trade shows or festival from across Canada. I personally feel, that at this point the Cornwall event is the second best one happening in Canada and here is why: </span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Many of the shows that run across Canada are a 1-2 day event. Nice if you live in that city, but for those of us that are a come from away - it can be an expensive 2-3 trip to drink whisky for a few hours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Cornwall is situated 1 hour from Ottawa but also Montreal (give or take a few km) which makes it an easy drive or train ride with two airports to pick from. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The Nav Center has large spacious rooms, gym, pool, spa, a restaurant, pub, café, several open common spaces for meeting people, fireplace, free parking, walking trails along the St. Laurent river, do I need to go on? Park your car for 4 days and worry about nothing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The Master classes (sometimes offered in French) take place in large, comfortable break out rooms. Too many to list (see bottom schedule, but I will thank Gordon Bruce and Gordon Stephenson - one of my favourite classes this year).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">"OK Lassie, bla bla bla... and?" I know that's what you are thinking as you read this. So here is the kicker for this particular show:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Unlike most whisky festivals in Canada, the Wonderful World of Whisky creates a full experience where the whisky is not the star, it is merely the backdrop. Now this is a concept that is really difficult to explain if you've never been to the show. The show is small enough that newbies won't feel intimidated but large enough that the hard core geeks, diehards and mentors also get what they need out of the festival. The after parties are attended by all - not just the "chosen" few. The jet set pub is full of people from all walks of life talking, sharing and enjoying each other's company (not to mention fantastic beers) and the food... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><br />The highlight for me for 2019 was the</span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"> Distell Whisky Dinner with Mike Brisebois, Stephen Woodcock (yes that Stephen Woodcock) and Chef Lucas on Thursday night. Please have a napkin ready before you read the following:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Course 1: Red deer and Wild Boar infused with Deanston Virgin Oak Terrine served with a sour frisée and mixed berry compote.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Course 2: A5 Wagyu Beef Rib Cap with/black currant & Bunnahabhain 12 glaze, fungi croquette with Bunnahabhain 12 fondue fresh truffle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Course 3: Smoked Bunnahabhain Toiteach a dha salt cured salmon duel sorrel pumpkin pesto with chive yogurt cream (this was stunning for me).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Course 4: 100 day aged Niman ranch rib roasts bathed in Deanston 2008 Bordeaux Cask served with horseradish Yorkshire pudding, smoked tri-coloured carrots, white asparagus and baby red rustic mash with charred goat cheese (SWEET BABY JESUS!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Course 5: Smoked Black Bottle Chocolate cheesecake with white truffle and candied ginger lemon black bottle sauce (and that's where I died and went to heaven for about 10 minutes)..</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">When I came to, Mike was walking around checking to ensure we were all still alive, that we had ate enough and I think I saw him passing out a few bottles of Pepto Bismol just in case some of us "over-indulged")... </span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">I know somewhere in my delirium we also received a beautiful dram of Bunnahabhain 25 to toast the chef and his wonderful staff... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">AND speaking of chef... I will quote my friend Benoit Bailey when I say this: "<span style="color: red;"><b><u>This is the only festival in Canada where people stand in line to eat before they go into the main event</u></b></span>" and, my friends, with good reason. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzp3V8fiwEDor8GxpbR8mv5WmwMh59l9kYNbvV1WZI5q1tBkgWQzGv-XSZ4RmRS4VsXT7AC47HdTWF7LcEzojTrntsW3eAKKaGNz3YzlTeOSd8V_0N_LKjiyVeDdVM5ykWVWQlFkLGH3Bz/s1600/Lucas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1051" data-original-width="1051" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzp3V8fiwEDor8GxpbR8mv5WmwMh59l9kYNbvV1WZI5q1tBkgWQzGv-XSZ4RmRS4VsXT7AC47HdTWF7LcEzojTrntsW3eAKKaGNz3YzlTeOSd8V_0N_LKjiyVeDdVM5ykWVWQlFkLGH3Bz/s400/Lucas.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">You see, Ian Bentley is not the only madman/genius at this show. This festival also has Chef Lucas McCabe. There is nothing "pedestrian" about any of the food you get to eat while at the Main event or dinners. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Preparation for the main event starts weeks if not months beforehand and in the wee hours of the Saturday morning when some of us are crawling out of bed to get to the gym (and yes I did...), Lucas and his helpers are outside getting smokers, racks and tons of different meats ready for our very appreciative bellies! It is not only a feast for the palate but for the eyes as you watch the meats cook all day on outside spits and open flames!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">I for one, can say, that I have made this one of my "go to's" for Canada and will continue to do so for as long as I can.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">So mark your calendar for 2020: Thursday March 26th to Saturday March 28th. I assure you, you truly can't afford to miss this great show!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Some highlights for 2020 include:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The Glenfarclas Dinner with esteemed guest Mr. George Grant. He will also be hosting a Decades Tasting on Friday and Saturday (tickets will go fast)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The Exclusive Waterford Irish Whiskey North America Introduction with Distillery Manager Ned Gahan (Super excited about this one having been to the distillery in October 2019)The Balblair Experience with Distillery Manager John MacDonald.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">My mentor Davin DeKergommeaux will be hosting a class and showcasing his latest book (which is a must have in your collection): The definitive guide to Canadian Distilleries. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">So many of our absolute best Brand Ambassadors who can't be missed: Mike Brisebois, Ray Daniels, Beth Havers, Jamie Johnson, Cameron Millar, Bryan Simpson and the ever entertaining Bill Somerville.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">I do hope you will join us, as this is truly a coast to coast festival with people from BC all the way to NS that attend.
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Big shout out to that madman/genius. Looks like the Wonderful World of Whisky 2020 is well on its way to being another amazing and fun show!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Tickets on sale now: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-4th-annual-wonderful-world-of-whisky-show-tickets-81818349887?aff=ebdssbdestsearch">https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-4th-annual-wonderful-world-of-whisky-show-tickets-81818349887?aff=ebdssbdestsearch</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">PS... If you are still reading and ARE attending the show, please email me at <a href="mailto:whiskylassie@gmail.com">whiskylassie@gmail.com</a> and I'll send you a personal invitation for a special tasting that will be taking place on Saturday March 28th. (IF there are still seats left... ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-89988033213391236862019-03-28T06:18:00.002-07:002019-03-29T11:05:57.011-07:00How to drink your whisky in 2019<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">ROLLLLS HER EYES ALL THE WAY BACK TO 1959!???</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Seriously... After reading yet another stupid, sexist blog about how men "should" drink their whisky so they can look like Tony Soprano</span><span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> and by the way, good job excluding 40% of the readers who enjoy whisky - women. Pfffftttt.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Don't be a fuckwit... It's 2019, drink your whisky any way you want. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">THE END</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-15549209107530155582017-11-01T06:29:00.002-07:002017-11-01T06:29:51.462-07:00It takes a small town to raise a festival - Devour!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEineo3DM1-WfaN_8YZEl-1eEyFuuP92NNHFUosnHUvunPA13aFAYXD41vVpdjY5bCgCBdpdasFEyzlAwWakQhz83CvoUIy6wO-DxXZpal1aLgWMkU44txSSmnlwwBODDy3dRlXJ0HU4nFFe/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="136" data-original-width="369" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEineo3DM1-WfaN_8YZEl-1eEyFuuP92NNHFUosnHUvunPA13aFAYXD41vVpdjY5bCgCBdpdasFEyzlAwWakQhz83CvoUIy6wO-DxXZpal1aLgWMkU44txSSmnlwwBODDy3dRlXJ0HU4nFFe/s640/download.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Picture this, Wolfville Nova Scotia October 217. It’s a sunny Saturday morning at the Farmer’s Market. It’s also day four of the Devour food and film festival. I am standing outside the main door next to a tent where the Grills, Culinary School Takedown event is about to begin. It's a challenge to the students from the Nova Scotia Community College, George Brown College Chef School and the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts and they are taking turns grilling on Big Green Eggs. I'm standing in the lineup of people waiting to try “Cornairs” a strange but addictive twist on a Maritime favourite. DELISH! As I walk around inside with a cup of locally roasted coffee in one hand and a fresh peach and cheese Danish in the other I am mesmerized by the diversity of food stalls, how friendly everyone is and the amount of festival goers doing the same as me; simply taking a little time to truly enjoy the Farmer’s Market experience. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wolfville only has a population of 4200 people but during the festival close to 16,000 individuals are staying, eating and shopping, yet it still feels comfortable if you know what I mean. It's not overcrowded, people are super pleasant and the locals are truly happy to see us all here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had a chance to sit and chat with Chef John Higgins who was attending his second Devour Festival. He is currently the Director of the George Brown Chef School in Toronto Ontario. He feels festivals like Devour are the grass roots of what cooking is all about. “We need to get back to teaching our children basic kitchen skills – how to sharpen and use a knife properly, use local ingredients to create simple but flavourful meals and how to cook using staples.” As he walks around the farmer’s market, fans stop him to take photos or tell him how much they enjoy watching him on Chopped Canada. He has fallen in love with the people of Wolfville, their generosity and how dedicated they are to the success of the festival. “The greatness of this festival rests on the shoulders of all the volunteers that make it happen year after year. It’s because of the local merchants, the venues and the size of this town that Devour has this winning combination. I can’t even imagine trying to have something like this in Toronto, I just don’t think it would possess the same charm or magic as it does here in Wolfville. Interesting factoids about chef Higgins: He's from Glasgow, cooked for the Queen at Buckingham Palace when he was 19 and his comfort food is Indian cuisine. (No wonder I loved meeting this guy! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Another chef I had the opportunity to chat with is the owner of the Gannet Restaurant in Glasgow - Chef Peter McKenna (Are you noticing a trend here? I do love their accents, hehe). This was his first Devour appearance and it was an honour for him to be chosen as one of the celebrity chefs preparing the five course dinner to commemorate Jacques Pépin’s film, The Art of Craft. “I was quite taken aback with the friendliness and positivity of the people of Wolfville. I instantly felt at home and truly welcomed into the community. A festival like Devour is extremely important as it brings so many people together may it be culinary students just starting their own adventure (I remember how difficult that can be), festival attendants, volunteers or people from different industries which, for me is an opportunity to share my own personal experiences with people, because we all have something in common: A love for food and drink”. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After Graham and I are done presenting sold out workshop: "Old Scotland to New Scotland in 6 glasses", we are off to the local pub called the Library. A couple of pints, a few laughs and a hearty meal for very affordable prices. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Matt Jones was at the festival again this year and we attended his "It's 5 o'clock somewhere cocktail class. I'm not usually a fan of cocktails but Matt has changed the way I feel about those. Two in particular were made with a new to NS gin - Sipsmith London Dry Gin which I really like a LOT, so much so, a bottle came home with me! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It’s now late Saturday night or early Sunday morning as we close down the Festival Lounge Gala. We walk back to our car parked on Elm Street when we notice some of the festival organizers and volunteers carrying boxes into the Farmer’s Market. “Preparing as much as we can for the luncheon tomorrow, hope to see you all there.”, one of them tells us with an enthusiastic grin. It’s 1:45am!? These people are truly devoted to the success of this festival and it shows.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I’m not sure if Michael Howell and Lia Rinaldo, Executive and Managing Directors, knew what they were actually creating seven years ago but what I do know for sure is that foodies and cinefiles from around the world are certainly grateful they had the vision to conceive a place where the two intertwine and creates one of the best places in the world where you can watch a great documentary, learn how to make homemade pasta then enjoy a star lit pop up cocktail party at a winery all in the same day. As another year of Devour comes to a close, we can only hope the organizers and town of Wolfville continue to raise the festival to new heights. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Devour was the Michael and Lia's brainchild back in 2010. They chose Wolfville due to its proximity to Halifax but also because of its stunning backdrop, venues and historic theatres. Devour is now the leading international festival that not only showcases some of the best documentaries, short films or dramas the world has to offer but also the opportunity to experience hands on sessions through cooking demos, interesting food panels or delicious dinners with some of the best of the culinary world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This was my first Devour food and film festival and I really loved it. Don't get me wrong, going to whisky festivals is always exciting to me but having been to this type of festival opened my eyes just a little broader to the depth of people that are open to different and unique workshops. Wolfville and all it had to offer over the course of the 5 days w</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">as simply a cool place to be for 5. It had a little bit of everything with my passion peppered in there which is probably why I really did enjoy it so much. With several pop-ups taking place in the next few months, keep your eyes open all over the globe for Devour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I think Chef Higgins summed it up best when he said: “Respect tradition but embrace the future” so I can't wait to see what Michael and Lia have in store for next year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Signed,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A more well rounded and appreciative Lassie</span><br />
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<br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-90640332220114312722017-08-11T11:21:00.000-07:002017-08-11T11:21:51.575-07:00Into the light once more.... Lassie writes about Wiser's Dissertation<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><u><strong>A little bit of honesty here</strong></u></span>: With every passing day as I stared at the screen that stated I hadn't blogged since March 3rd 2017 I grew more and more indifferent about ever doing it again. Day after day - spending time flipping through twitter then deleting the mindless amounts of PR emails that I receive about <span style="color: magenta;"><strong>NEW</strong></span> and <span style="color: lime;"><strong>INNOVATIVE</strong></span> spirits coming to market. I attempted at times to read other blogs or websites but many simply seem to regurgitate the PR emails I deleted the day before. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Another round of: "Meh... Why do I bother, nobody reads these anymore anyway... or worse - I've really got nothing to say or add to the #whiskyfabric anymore. That last one likely hit me the hardest. Do people even care about stories, real reviews or crazy whisky adventures?" T</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">he following week I would read twitter, delete more emails, read a blog, sigh and then walk away from the computer yet once more. Meh... Meh... Meh... Repeat... Meh...</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Over the last five months I've travelled, done lots of sailing, had some fabulous and mind blowing adventures, drank some great whiskies, spent time with friends and family. These filled most of the nooks and crannies of my life. Writing, however, was an itch that wasn't getting scratched at all. Something needed to kick start my ass again but I wasn't sure what that was. In late May I received a package while I was at work. Graham, my wonderful partner in most of my crimes, sent me a message on his lunch hour about it so I casually said open it and let me know what it is. He wrote back: "Holy shit Jo!" Ok, so now he has my attention. I stare at my phone waiting for another message. Nothing... "Errr, yes?" I write quickly. Nothing... "Hello?" I type, now with a bit of impatience and annoyance. Nothing like getting click bait messages from your husband :) </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Then the photo comes in: A copy of Don Livermore's dissertation: "<em><u><span style="color: blue;">Quantification of oak wood extractives via gas chromatography - mass spectrometry and subsequent calibration of near infrared reflectance to predict the Canadian whisky aging process</span></u></em>". Now, if you are a regular reader to this blog (poor attempt lately my apologies) or a new one who doesn't know who or what that means to me - Dr. Don Livermore is the brilliant and creative master blender at the Hiram Walker & Sons distillery in Windsor Ontario Canada. </span><br />
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I know the adrenaline shot through my entire body when my brain registered what I was looking at and unless you are a full out whisky or chemistry geek like myself you may simply giggle at the thought of someone getting an adrenaline headache, her heart skipping a few beats and maybe suffering from a bit of hyperventilation as a result of seeing a photo of a paper about infrared sensors, barrel charring levels and whisky. Let me elaborate just a little (indulge me here...) = This is a PhD paper that demonstrates how the quality of a barrel can be determined by using infrared technology. <br />
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</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">The other great thing that came of his dissertation was 114 barrels of whisky. A bi-product of the research and experiment really but also thankfully product that might be quite interesting to release on the market so Don chose 78 of them, blended the whisky which ended up creating Wiser's Dissertation. Released to the LCBO in Ontario as an exclusive bottling, 10,000 bottles hit the stores right before Father's Day. Cost $64.95. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I've really become a fan of Don's and many (MANY) of the whiskies he has created since taking the helm of Master Blender in 2012. I had a copy of the dissertation now I had to try the whisky. May 30th I stepped on a plane, hopped the Go train and headed directly to a liquor store in downtown Toronto where I purchased 2 bottles. (It's important to do a lot of trials - spoken like a true chemistry nerd!) I didn't make it back home to Saint John until June 21st but a few days later I quietly popped the cork while sitting on the boat. It was nice to simply enjoy it, no note book, no pictures for social media. Just me, the sunset and the whisky. It was glorious. I loved everything about it as many of you know I often say sometimes the whisky is simply the backdrop to the memory that is created. Over the course of the next 5-6 weeks anytime I opened my copy of the Dissertation, I also poured one (always made me smile when I did this!). I can't even begin to explain the satisfaction I had knowing that I was reading about Don's work and sipping the whisky that allowed him to successfully acquire his PhD.</span><br />
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Monday August 7th, my daughter Erica's birthday. She turned 27. I can't get a hold of her as she's off having an adventure (apple doesn't fall too far from this tree) but a great reason to pour myself a dram! Except this time, I'm drawn to my notebook. I open the page and the last notes taken on March 4th stare back at me. Halifax, whisky show - Bowmore Vault 1st Edition. Scribbles, my friend Celinda's name with a big happy face - Nice, salted with butterscotch sweet notes. I flip back a few pages, many more descriptors - most almost looking foreign to me now. Scented potpourri soaked cedar shavings (Won't mention the name of that whisky but good God it was horrible!) Yeah, I miss doing this. Maybe I needed the time off or away from writing so that I could appreciate how much I do love whisky?<br />
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Here goes, let's see how rusted my olfactory memory and taste buds really are? I have to say I was almost a bit nervous and scared to do this whisky a disfavour but like every other muscle that has memory, the nose did not fail me. Bicycle-schmicycle!?</div>
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<u>Wiser's Dissertation Blended Canadian Whisky, 46.1% ABV</u></div>
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Nose: Explosive rye profile. Spicy, rich, lots of early fall night orchard smells like apples still fresh on the tree, grass that was hot all day but cooling in the autumn air, wild flowers like purple clover and evening primrose. The nose is big and beautiful.</div>
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Palate: Just a hint of fresh oak, pink grapefruit cheesecake with a caramel sauce (not kidding). Super creamy but mildly sweet in nature. Quite complex.<br /></div>
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Finish: Smooth, not overly hot more like spicy like cinnamon heart candies. Nice but a bit short especially compared to most of the other whiskies I love from Corby's. </div>
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Overall I think Don hit it out of the park yet again with this one. I put it directly behind Last Barrels which I loved immensely in 2016. Review written, blog done = Lassie happy. With only about 25% of the stock left, when this one is gone, it's gone for good so if you are in Ontario or know someone who lives there, I recommend you get a bottle or maybe two.</div>
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Just three little things to add:</div>
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a. 46.1% is what Dr. Don decided to bottle this at, which also (not by coincidence) is the molecular weight of ethanol (CH<sub><span style="font-size: medium;">3</span></sub>CH<sub><span style="font-size: medium;">2</span></sub>OH) -> Squeals with geeky excitement.</div>
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b. Maybe you noticed that I stated Dr. Livermore used 78 of his PhD research barrels to make Dissertation a reality. I hope that leaves you wondering, just like me - what will happen to the remaining 36? Can't wait to see what creative idea he comes up with for those.</div>
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and c... BIG thanks to fellow Canadian whisky judge, chosen brother and very good friend André Girard, <a href="http://www.quebecwhisky.com/">http://www.quebecwhisky.com/</a> for being the kick in the pants I needed to finish this one and reminding me about the one thing that brings friends, happiness, adventures and great memories into my life: Whisky. </div>
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It was quite refreshing writing a blog for the fun of it. It's nice to be back and I'll do my best to keep writing about what this Lassie does, thinks and experiences after all why should I keep all the crazy and weird things that I get to do locked up in my head ;) <br />
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Cheers from Saint John Canada wherever you may be.<br />
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Lassie</span><br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-31262775526887911462017-03-03T20:13:00.000-08:002017-03-20T12:57:35.781-07:00When whisky and poetry slam!<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My wish for 2017 was that I would "do" more. I made a promise to myself that I would give back as much as was given to me, that I would expand my life experiences until I felt I was bursting because I would say yes, without hesitations, to the opportunities being presented to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In January I donated my time to a great fundraiser in my hometown called: Bolder taste for Boulder Art. It was quite the experience to link how a sculpture has the same humble beginning as a grain of barley. In the end both end up creating masterpieces for people to enjoy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">February came along and the Regional Library approached me to do a lecture series about whisky. No actual tastings involved, just a series of information sessions about all things whisky. I thought to myself, I can't imagine people would want to come to a whisky talk without whisky being poured? But... I was wrong. Completely wrong! It was the largest turnout the library had ever seen with their speakers series and I truly loved it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here we are March and my friend Matt Jones and I were scheduled to be presenting at the Nova Scotia Festival of Whisky from March 1-4. One late evening as we were talking about upcoming events and what our itineraries were like for the next couple of months and he mentioned that a few friends were getting together for an evening of Spoken Word, graciously sponsored by Maker's Mark Bourbon. YES, without hesitations. There we are Thursday March the 2nd at the Company House in Halifax Nova Scotia. Intimate setting, candles, tables and plenty of other people there to listen and experience poetry. Sounds a bit floopy I'm sure to most, because I mean really how does whisky even remotely fit when it comes to poetry. To that I would say you would be mostly surprised how one really did go hand in hand with the other.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Let's start with the definition of Slam Poetry: An intense blend of written verse mixed with stage performance - and a stop watch. There are no props, no music, just a speaker on stage with their own voice and words. There is authenticity, rawness and it takes time to not only compose each piece but to perfect it. Sound familiar to whisky? I think so in many ways...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The evening began with a young, somewhat shy but humorous man by the name of Andre Fenton. Wise beyond his 21 years of age. He was one of only two participants from the east coast to attend the National Slam Poetry Competition in Vancouver in 2016. Andre, stepped up to the microphone, apologetic in nature as he seemed to stumble on his own words to introduce himself. "I wrote a book", he almost whispered, "I'll be launching in March 31st across the street at Alteregos Café on Gottingen Street". I couldn't help but smile as I thought to myself, ahhhh we are starting with an up-and-comer who is still quite green behind the ears. Then... he began. The clarity of his speech, the cadence of his language and the movement of his body so in sync with the spoken words. I found myself leaning in, listening more than just intently, listening with purpose. This was not a young man of 21 years of age standing before us under a bright spotlight on a dark little stage at the Company House. This was an old soul who had lived, and seen and experienced life more intensely than most of us could ever imagine. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><strong>Mr. Andre Fenton - East coast poet</strong></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">His book, Ode to Teen Angst, is a 43 page compilation of 10 of his favourite poems. My favourite of the evening was clearly the letter to his 10 year old self. Witty, dirty, truths about growing up, truth about depression, being bullied, being scared about the changes to come but with the advice to always hang on, dream big and trust that it's all good. </span><br />
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<a href="http://signalhfx.ca/spoken-word-poet-publishes-ode-to-teen-angst/"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">http://signalhfx.ca/spoken-word-poet-publishes-ode-to-teen-angst/</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I read in the interview where he stated: "Some of the topics in the book aren't really relatable to everybody". I would tend to disagree somewhat. He talks about the life in the "customer service" world, he talks about life lessons, love and mental illness. "Like I'm running through a grass field with the girl of my dreams or like I'm looking through at the stars trying to solve all the galaxy's mysteries". His poem Unapologetic is an eye opening piece about racism. Something I have never experienced in my 50 years of my life. I will never understand how that feels or looks like but through Andre's eyes. I see the un-relatable side of his teenage years versus mine... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Andre's book is available by contacting him at <em><a href="mailto:andre.fenton@live.ca">andre.fenton@live.ca</a></em></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The $15 is not only worth every loonie, it's like the best little book a teenager should read, in my opinion. Nothing speaks louder than the words of someone else going through the exact same thing as yourself. Thank you Andre for putting those words to paper and allowing the world to look in and share those moments with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Up next Martha, "just" Martha... no last name. The little wisp of a long haired woman with nothing more than her cell phone in hand. An ode to a grandmother who had recently passed away. Her grief, love and respect poured out for all to see. Touching, special and meaningful to many in the room as I watched how they nodded when certain words tugged at their own heart strings. How stupid we are in our youth to not realize the importance of our elders. It is all too late that we see how they shape and mould us into the adults we become. Her poem about marriage is where I found myself nodding incessantly, smiling under my breathe. How lost a woman can feel when she sees friends around her marrying, meanwhile deep inside she thinks but what about "me"... Who is this me, and why do I have to rush into what society sees as the only goal for making it in the world. A husband... to have and to hold. Why, can't I simply have and hold myself until I know what it is I want? Wouldn't that make me a better partner in the end? Martha stood 7 feet tall on that stage and I, gracefully sat in her shadow and basked in the words. Again, baffled by the depth and grace that were beyond her years.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And then Mona Mousa steps up to the stage and the electricity is felt through the crowd as she unleashes immediately a foray of words from the hip and soul. Clever, polished and melodious. I watched as the body language was one with the spoken words. Ohhhh she's a veteran at this, and you can tell she loves how standing that the microphone transforms Mona to "The Poet Mona". She runs the gamut from powerful, sassy to vulnerable. Speaking words of frustration, defiance and then love. No pauses, no frills... Just a woman, her life and her ability to share those awkward and sometimes scary moments that all of us feel but would never have the guts to share, especially on stage in front of strangers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Picture this: There is a man that plays the piano like it's his job. To remind people that music is brutal and real love will make you sick. This man plays the piano like it's his lover."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Kentucky: It's 3:27am in Lexington Kentucky, the night that taught me that I am not everything I know, she is 67 headed to a city made of towering skyscrapers for the first time. She said to me: She can't blame her because ain't nothing changes in Kentucky but the weather. She looked at me and said: Darling, I can tell you're hurting because no stranger to the south comes to Kentucky unless they have a bourbon craving, broken heart. Honey you can decorate abstinence whatever you want but it's still going to be obvious what's missing."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Her entire spoken album entitled Bourbon Darling is available online at </span><a href="http://mfmpoetry.bandcamp.com/"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">mfmpoetry.bandcamp.com</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mona.. Spoken word poet, motivational speaker, comedian, heavily active in community, advocate for the empowerment of youth and whose mission in life is simple: Education and tolerance, no exceptions. Brilliant!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;"><a href="http://thepoetmona.com/">http://thepoetmona.com/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As the night wound to an end I came to a few quick conclusions about it all... Poetry is not defined by age, nationality or content. What appears before you is nothing more than the outer shell and it's not until you let it open up that you discover the contents and the meaning inside. Some poets come in small unassuming packages where others are bold and exciting. There are some that you immediately are drawn to and you think to yourself, now... that was special.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I think you can see where I'm going with this. It's super easy to link my evening back to whisky for almost all the same reasons. Whisky, like poetry is art in most cases and it speaks to my heart and soul. I, once again, find myself speechless in how whisky has changed my life for the good, the best years of my life. I am, truly blessed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At the end of the night, I went over and introduced myself to Andre. I didn't tell him how much his poetry touched me but I did buy his book. I have no doubt that thanks to people like Mona who believe and support the next generation of artists like Andre and Martha, these young and very talented people will continue to grow, excel and become the eloquent poets of tomorrow.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Huge thanks to Maker's Mark (cue the product placement joke - that's a personal one for Mona who does this part ooooh so well! ;) as well as Matt Jones for such a great experience. It was added value to the Nova Scotia Whisky Festival that I'm attending this week in Halifax.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">What's next for this Lassie... a little adventure in whisky and chocolate pairings! Cue the moaning and giggles, errrr that was from me, not the people in the class (hehehe!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Cheers,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">The enlightened Lassie</span><br />
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<br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-42186231245016644302017-01-12T06:07:00.001-08:002017-01-12T06:07:40.182-08:00That's the last of 2016, I swear - Runner ups!<div style="border-image: none;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When January 1st rolls around, I don't purposely set out to break records. What I mean by that is, I don't set a goal and other than taking photos and keeping a spreadsheet I don't go out of my way to try and supersede previous years numbers. For 2016 I tried 397 NEW whiskies. To the average person this may sound like a crazy number but when you start to talk to other enthusiasts, I'm not even considered hard core... yet!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I like picking out whiskies that really stood out as my top 10 or 12 of the year. I make notes, put little stars beside the ones I think were most memorable and for what reason. I've had a few people say: "Wow, I'm surprised you picked (that) whisky". So again, I'll explain that sometimes it's about the memory the whisky created, or the moment itself. For instance: Benromach 35 and how it transported me back to a time when my grandfather was still alive. How magical is it to sit there, close your eyes and be inundated with memories of someone who was very special. (Just the thought of that day as I sat there nosing that whisky and remembering pepere Mossey brings tears to my eyes as I type this). That is powerful indeed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">With 397 whiskies to choose from there are bound to be some that I initially say: Oh yeah - top 12 indeed but then as the year rolls on they get bumped by others. When I created my list this year, I noticed two things:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. There wasn't one single American whiskey that even made the top 30!? As I surfed my photos it made me wonder. Is it because, here in Canada we don't really get to try many new/interesting USA whiskies or is it because I simply gravitate toward other whiskies in general. Hmmm... Goal for 2017: Try more American brands.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. As I went through the spreadsheet it became very apparent that the whiskies I did seem to gravitate toward in 2016 were independent bottlings. Again, it made me ponder: Was I naturally inclined toward those or did I somehow have more access than usual to these types of whiskies?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you look at my list of honorable mentions you'll see for yourself. Here are whiskies number 30-13.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">30. SMWS 59.49 - Celebration in a glass (Thanks Ross)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">29. SMWS 1.196 - Sunshine, motherhood and apple pie (Thanks Blair & Clare)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">28. Canadian Club 20 year old (Celebrate Whisky festival Halifax)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">27. Douglas Laing Rock Oyster (Celebrate Whisky Festival Halifax)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">26. Deerstalker Braeval 20 year old (Celebrate Whisky Festival Halifax)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">25. SMWS 9.84 Playing "Sea battle" in the garden (Club whisky tasting) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">24. Cadenhead Mortlach 26 year old (Thanks Dave W)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">23. Cadenhead Caperdonich 39 year old (Thanks Mark W)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">22. Balvenie 25 year old Triple cask (Thanks Ian M)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">21. Gordon & MacPhail Macallan 1958, 11 year old (Thanks Richard U)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">20. Balvenie 1966 (HUGE thanks to Jill B - my birth year!)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGDVaJGmv-1_rObNV2v_MDPaGYhf6FRbMkAg_OvYnqiInO1evI52jWrynSGAf4R22d9ZYlWOaJEK_AAZW73pNGu8fhBLjsXI38kAcaGutz0EgwC4bGv58HP7emKo-_-jEKbd2x19CZqN1/s1600/IMG_7422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGDVaJGmv-1_rObNV2v_MDPaGYhf6FRbMkAg_OvYnqiInO1evI52jWrynSGAf4R22d9ZYlWOaJEK_AAZW73pNGu8fhBLjsXI38kAcaGutz0EgwC4bGv58HP7emKo-_-jEKbd2x19CZqN1/s320/IMG_7422.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">19. The Cask of Yamazaki 1990 Sherry Butt (Thanks Martine N)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">18. Highland Park 1968 (Thanks Nicolas V and Dan V!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">17. Two Brewers Yukon Single Malt, Release 2 (Thanks Lydia!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkB1IYOvdDVat7KvkEaAXPU5EgtMt8otIeHMPNLn5faJz8Jp5SVETZUKsNQ3Q7v2m4TaxIoqw5iF9WxZbiikN8HJHF18GzIZK_P4gRKqqJKeqLvMjdQbZvUlL3g0HECvqqYVh6d9Q3SXEt/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkB1IYOvdDVat7KvkEaAXPU5EgtMt8otIeHMPNLn5faJz8Jp5SVETZUKsNQ3Q7v2m4TaxIoqw5iF9WxZbiikN8HJHF18GzIZK_P4gRKqqJKeqLvMjdQbZvUlL3g0HECvqqYVh6d9Q3SXEt/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">16. Wemyss Malts 1988 Kirsch Gateau (Thanks Jacqueline)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">15. Sansibar Tomatin 18 year old (Thanks Igor K)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">14. Springbank 12 Rum Wood (Thanks Frank S)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">13. Adelphi 1988 Cambus 27 year old (Thanks Jonathan B)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's always an amazing journey and you'll likely also notice that the majority of whiskies on this list were shared by friends in one form or another. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRNBtf3eJnWre9cTOrcwHLoTalddr4CDnBN9CLJB-ufBAO2qGqgO1GbKOa1zxqA-3F25DmDLk6urvggkyx0eHilYiy5WkcQ4M-v0pLPVVCww93Nc4_MuWtAAypGApZUtp0yJ2S1dha_8a/s1600/IMG_7424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgRNBtf3eJnWre9cTOrcwHLoTalddr4CDnBN9CLJB-ufBAO2qGqgO1GbKOa1zxqA-3F25DmDLk6urvggkyx0eHilYiy5WkcQ4M-v0pLPVVCww93Nc4_MuWtAAypGApZUtp0yJ2S1dha_8a/s320/IMG_7424.jpg" width="320" /></a>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can make fun of me all you like but #whiskyfabric truly is a weave of personalities, friendships and connections that I am truly grateful for. We share moments, we create memories and best of all: We love whisky!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, if you'll excuse me I'm off to make some room on my sample shelf: Thanks Benoit B for the latest rounds of drams I can't wait to try!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's to 2017... may the list of new whisky discoveries, friendships and adventures be long and good for all of you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheers,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
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<br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-32984194065702085632017-01-09T09:37:00.002-08:002017-01-09T12:38:59.076-08:00Helping out a newbie.... points you may want to consider - PLEASE!!!!<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg99htBYdOcp_RQQn2WEwscy9JYqyPtwsGDoBl3IccoHUq9DZg5RiKt0gF6SHWdh8jTPD-pKve93ike9kT8-bxMFZ8bLBH7KXfULIuM4INPkAsNZcDqlLcYlUOBkS_NzdER55Sj81K_PJvS/s1600/soapbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg99htBYdOcp_RQQn2WEwscy9JYqyPtwsGDoBl3IccoHUq9DZg5RiKt0gF6SHWdh8jTPD-pKve93ike9kT8-bxMFZ8bLBH7KXfULIuM4INPkAsNZcDqlLcYlUOBkS_NzdER55Sj81K_PJvS/s320/soapbox.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My first scotch, courtesy of my father in law George was an Ardbeg 17. Tastebud suicide or brilliant move? Well in my case a little of both. I choked, sputtered but added ice, finished the dram and... continued to try peated whiskies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Please do not consider this my first rant of 2017 however there are some points I hope will be considered!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here it is January 9th and already four times this year I've either seen or been included in the following request: "Hey I'm new to scotch or bourbon, so what would you recommend I try". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key words number 1: <span style="color: red;"><u>I'M NEW</u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key words number 2: WHAT SHOULD I TRY...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is what baffled me... I know people are simply trying to be helpful and start sending out all sorts of recommendations to this "newbie" immediately -> WITHOUT asking any questions what so ever. I received private messages on 3 of the 4 occasions saying: "Thank you for taking the time to talk to me a little, the rest of that stuff was crazy overwhelming and not very helpful!?". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So... think about this for a minute. Would you do the same if someone asked you to recommend a type of dog? What about a car? "I love my Subaru - Buy one". Errrrr, ok... why? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In my opinion (and this is how I've done this for years) - There are several points to consider when someone asks you to recommend something to "TRY"...</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. Where do they live? If you live in South Carolina USA and someone from the UK asks you to recommend a bourbon... WHY would you recommend something that is only available in South Carolina??? </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A: Do some research - Where do they live and what is available there... Don't recommend something they can never buy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi572jerlO8tDebcBBKuXPv3Ot3RMvddlSsIripVyfZIA4Aai3Aa7VWr5SnOmgOWgvEVJlftNknSaiDnukjFKoVDuEVUk4USupOMCGd7uQk8VU9B21pndT8Cp_vg3mqeILPk0IqBgttxDYr/s1600/door+stop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi572jerlO8tDebcBBKuXPv3Ot3RMvddlSsIripVyfZIA4Aai3Aa7VWr5SnOmgOWgvEVJlftNknSaiDnukjFKoVDuEVUk4USupOMCGd7uQk8VU9B21pndT8Cp_vg3mqeILPk0IqBgttxDYr/s320/door+stop.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. What is their price range? Why... would you recommend a bottle of scotch that costs $150.00 to someone who is brand new or has little experience with it? If they go by your recommendation and they hate it, they have just spend $150.00 for nothing more than: a door stop. </span></div>
<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. What do these people like? Why.... would you recommend all the things <u>you</u> like? Whisky is subjective as subjective as everything else in our lives. "I like the colour purple - you should wear purple too". Errrr... no.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Take a few moments to see what types of flavours they like. Easy questions such as:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A: What whiskies have you tried so far? Or what ones did you really like?</span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">B: If they have never really tried whisky: Do you like sweet? Do you like the bitterness of coffee or chocolate, what about wine - do you like white vs. red? Beer? Rum? Super easy questions that will help you determine where to possibly point them in the right direction.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfHnpF-XqDcmVuCb9W8qwCne1vFz9TTVITW4f_qciFFFXeUwrYU5FGvZNl8FU7LTlA9NTCZZI3kg9JrNfNAujWc-PEnhVtCRdtvzu69kMRRGt6SvqW0H3Wq7SafyXozg1bGlfGHNBbl98/s1600/tradesies+logo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfHnpF-XqDcmVuCb9W8qwCne1vFz9TTVITW4f_qciFFFXeUwrYU5FGvZNl8FU7LTlA9NTCZZI3kg9JrNfNAujWc-PEnhVtCRdtvzu69kMRRGt6SvqW0H3Wq7SafyXozg1bGlfGHNBbl98/s400/tradesies+logo1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. You are part of a HUGE #whiskyfabric!!! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What about offering to put them in touch with someone you know near them for help? Or better yet... what about sending them a few little samples after you've determined what they think they might like to try? A try before you buy sort of deal? What a great introduction to the #whiskyfabric and what we are all about!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, maybe it's because you've been a whisky enthusiast for many years and you've forgotten how overwhelming and scary venturing out into buying your first few bottles really is? </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Either way, you may want to consider the points I've mentioned above when someone throws the "What should I try?" question. If you do, a few things will happen: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A. You'll be a trusted source that this person will rely on or refer other friends to. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">B. You'll really get the hang of recommending whiskies to suit the person and not the other way around.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZ-dU4lLisjZGTVMed-1CIrkqAnADnsVm36ArqvSbOFE-ajJ5IR62H_VT8HULl6JQweh0464_hk00zX0kstoYF2jkCHlgzJ0icg6NmwnsUCMPoJ-QDN7oiUgmxoW2f1LlIcGyjWvPHZ5L/s1600/helping-hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZ-dU4lLisjZGTVMed-1CIrkqAnADnsVm36ArqvSbOFE-ajJ5IR62H_VT8HULl6JQweh0464_hk00zX0kstoYF2jkCHlgzJ0icg6NmwnsUCMPoJ-QDN7oiUgmxoW2f1LlIcGyjWvPHZ5L/s1600/helping-hand.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Like I said, not a rant... just some advice from a whisky enthusiast who remembers standing in front of the large wall of whisky and worse... being led down the wrong path because someone simply didn't take the time to get to know me just a little. Please feel free to add the list of points you are trying to lend a helping hand. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Respectfully,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-26404628027755017912017-01-08T12:12:00.004-08:002017-01-08T12:12:40.501-08:00Lassie's number 1 pick for 2016 - JP WISER WINS 2 years in a row!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's not that I've fallen out of love with scotch but I have spent time these past two years trying to discover more Canadian distilleries and whiskies. , I would add I have done that successfully. Proud to be from this country and since day one of my social media adventure, I've been a proponent of Canadian whiskies and dispelling that it's no better than "brown vodka" by sending samples as far as New Zealand. I have also had some pretty fantastic mentors and people who have helped me understand and appreciate the whiskies that are being made from coast to coast. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">@CDNWhiskyDoc - Twitter handle</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Last year Don Livermore, Wiser's Master Blender, and in my opinion the Steve Jobs of Canadian Whisky is the mastermind of some really great whiskies coming to market. Well educated, passionate and looking to change the face of whisky he has made it his mission for 2016-2017 to introduce the world to Canadian whisky. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had the chance to visit him in April of 2016 where he took the time to spend 5 hours with me teaching me how his creative nature and microbiology background guide him in his vision of what Canadian whisky can become. I experienced my very own university 101 whisky chemistry class and given the opportunity to try my hand at blending. A "whiskylassie" blend was created as well as recipe written down. You never know, maybe someday after I pass away, there will be a Whisky Lassie whisky!? (Dream on Johanne, dream on... hehehe) </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don and I went to lunch and we discussed many aspects of what is to come for Wiser's. 2017 is going to be one hell of an exciting year... albeit I am sworn to secrecy as to what will be released. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After lunch, I assumed my day was done but no... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don says: "So do you want to go to the warehouse?" Lassie beams! We did a walk about, and then opened a few casks for sampling. Lot 40, Red Letter and the 18 - All at CS. I stood speechless (I'm sure that surprises many of you) and I said not a word for 5-10 minutes. Simply amazing straight out of the barrel, that is all. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Back to the distillery and down to the archives for about an hour. I rummaged, searched and discovered pieces of Canadian history that day that simply blew me out of my boots. How sorry do I feel for people who simply think Canada makes brown vodka!? If only you knew the long history and story behind what we have here in this country. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One last surprise for the Lassie - JP Wiser's Last Barrels. I was allowed to try a sample, take a photo but again sworn to secrecy as to saying anything until it was revealed in June 2016. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My experience in full... why I love this bottle even more and why you should really get one bottle if you can.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/05/giving-dad-iconic-canadian-whisky-jp.html">http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/05/giving-dad-iconic-canadian-whisky-jp.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">At the Victoria Whisky Festival on January 20th, Don Livermore will reveal four new whiskies for 2017. I won't be on the west coast but I'll certainly be first in line here on the east coast to sample and buy them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'd like to thank Davin de Kergommeaux for introducing me to Don Livermore and of course a huge thank you to Don for being the passionate mad scientist who believes in what Canadians are capable of on the whisky scene.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Canada celebrates 150 years in 2017 and my mission and commitment to prove how proud I am - I'm going to sample, buy and write about as many Canadian whiskies as I can. Let's see how many this Lassie ends up trying!!! Place your bets now boys and girls, place those bets. Bring on the Canadian whisky adventure!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheers,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-48079474476999603872017-01-07T12:57:00.001-08:002017-01-07T12:57:03.688-08:00Lassie's Top 12 countdown to 2016, the runner up and in 2nd place!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Graham: "You should call this reveal - dropping the deuce". Me about an hour later: "HEY!! I just googled that!?" Graham: "Nothing but maniacal laughter".. BOYS!!??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Needless to say, we are calling this one my 2nd best moment and whisky for 2016 for a few reasons. First and foremost, a visit to this distillery has been a stellar one EVERY time. I've been going for 3 years straight now. It doesn't matter who is there, I always get the same level of customer service, great information and better yet: Some pretty interesting and delicious whiskies! If you haven't yet been, please make a reservation and don't forget to take a photo of the #whiskyfabric cask.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This year was no different. On my trip to Scotland for 2016 I actually ended up visiting the distillery twice. Once with Jo Lawson.. well because we needed a loo... (what better place to stop)... and it was a pleasure to introduce Jo to Graham Eunson, have a quick coffee and a bit of shopping. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then a week later, I revisited with Crystal Coverdale and we had a full tour of the distillery. It was pretty much my last chance to grab something different to bring back home for Graham so I decided upon an ex-bourbon cask, cask strength, straight out of the barrel. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxa_8GOll_nef3jGRAzz0f2gO9EMSWrMRC-9j0cAkMAnbEqmLDRZOL9cRfPJBaOuErS572eoQ8TRWKGLp0BAk-gX_mrNA-3uJzP1VFgOAUIIGwKPT_HOmD552NsgMWuC6zzaYQCt3QcJD/s1600/IMG_7307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaxa_8GOll_nef3jGRAzz0f2gO9EMSWrMRC-9j0cAkMAnbEqmLDRZOL9cRfPJBaOuErS572eoQ8TRWKGLp0BAk-gX_mrNA-3uJzP1VFgOAUIIGwKPT_HOmD552NsgMWuC6zzaYQCt3QcJD/s320/IMG_7307.JPG" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whisky #2 for 2016: Tomatin 12 CS, ex-bourbon cask #2592, 62.3% ABV. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The bottle made it home and sound and we opened the bottle on November 11th, my 50th birthday. I've since shared it a few times (as I always do...) and enjoyed it immensely. I love Tomatin whiskies as I feel, so far, every single bottling I've ever tried has followed the same recipe (so to speak): Lovely nose, great palate, strong finish. BALANCED. What I thought was really interesting about 2016 was the fact that my palate seemed really tuned into ex-bourbon casks. This one is exceptional and truly is a great definition of what this type of maturation is all about. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I knew this whisky would be in my top 10 and once I had my list, quickly placed it in the top 3. When the Scotch Test Dummies asked if I would do a live tasting with them, I quickly said hell ya and we schemed that I would reveal my number 1 and runner up whisky of the year. I learned a few things that day:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. The boys really love Tomatin Cask Strength whisky.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. A 30-45 minute video session with Bart & Scott easily turned into a 75 minutes of laughter and debauchery. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Never feed cask strength whiskies to the boys... again (hehehe....)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm thankful to be in the position to visit distilleries in many different countries, I'm even more thankful for the friends and whisky community that has grown exponentially these last few years. I hope the Scotch Test Dummies and I make this an annual event and I certainly hope that Tomatin keeps hitting them way out of the park.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Buy great whisky, share it with fabulous friends... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">May this be the motto of 2017.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheers -> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-61717223569830139392017-01-06T03:38:00.003-08:002017-01-06T03:38:49.268-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown for 2016, TOP 3 - Must have bottles!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've often heard many whisky enthusiasts say: "I'm not allowed to buy anymore whisky until I get rid of a few bottles" or "My wife says I'm not allowed to build a bigger storage area". I have to say that having a partner who is just as passionate as I am leads us completely down the other path. I look at Graham and say: "There's no more room in my bookshelf". He scratches his head and builds me shelves. He looks at me while we are on vacation and says: "Do we want this bottle", and I don't even look over. "You want it, get it". You can see the dilemma right? There is... NO VOICE OF REASON! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now mind you we do try to have limits (try...) so our spending habits have changed slightly in the last few years. We are more selective with our whisky purchases and have many less bottles open then we did 5 years ago. Looking back at 2016 and what we bought, I was quite satisfied with our choices and only had one small disappointment overall. Not bad, I say... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As mentioned in a previous post when tasting the whiskies in the advent calendar, I knew I was going to be in trouble and promised myself I would limit my purchases to 3. Many of whiskies in the Secret Spirits calendar were pretty stellar but I managed to narrow it down to the ones I really wanted a full bottle of. Wemyss Marmalade Appeal, Glenrothes 27 year old. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Number 3 on my top 12 of 2016 easily slides into this position for two reasons:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. These bottles are rarely available in Canada and I usually have to wait until a trip to Scotland or the kindness of #whiskyfabric to get these, so I'm super excited to have this one in our collection.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. This whisky was truly a stellar dram and next to Velvet Fig (which I miss very much), this is the best of the Wemyss Malts I've ever tried. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Serge Valentin (Malt Maniacs) as well as <a href="http://www.whiskyfun.com/">www.whiskyfun.com</a> rates this particular bottling 4 stars. (I highly respect his opinion).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My review was here as part of the advent fun I participated in:</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/12/day-21-wemyss-glenrothes-27-year-old.html">http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/12/day-21-wemyss-glenrothes-27-year-old.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whiskies that make the "world" stop for a few minutes are a rarity. I come across these every once and awhile and absolutely cherish them. There were very few bottles of this Wemyss (688 I believe)... and I consider myself extremely lucky to be getting one. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">To Emma, Karen, Jacqueline, Ginny, and the rest of the team that works extremely hard at Wemyss Malts: Keep up the good work. Every whisky enthusiast should be so lucky to own a few good bottles from this independent company. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-60892498667840501352017-01-04T06:11:00.001-08:002017-01-04T06:11:43.879-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown of 2016, Number 4 Best value for $ whisky of the year<div class="separator" style="border-image: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was wandering around the Celebrate Whisky Show in March in Halifax Nova Scotia. I had tried everything I wanted and was mostly making conversation and taking a few photos. Graham came over and said: "Have you made it over to the Canadian whisky tables yet?". I looked down at my list, apparently I had overlooked two that I was looking to try that night. We headed over in that direction. First one I tried wasn't bad but it wasn't quite my style. I found it a bit too oaky for my liking. I was a bit worried as I headed over to the second table. When I arrived there was nobody at the table (Geeez I hate that...) and I asked for a pour. What followed was great conversation with the distillery owner, a trip to the distillery twice since then and many, MANY bottles purchased. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Caldera Hurricane 5 blended Canadian whisky caught my attention and blew me out of the water. Why you ask? Because it's a great sipping whisky for an extremely affordable price! In a world where some of these price hikes have stopped us dead in our tracks from buying some of our favourites, this was a breathe of fresh air. When I asked why this was so "cheap" he stated: "Because I want everyone to be able to drink good whisky at a great price". Well, wow... honest and not looking to gouge the public! Can you say I'm a client for life!?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">I wrote about Caldera earlier this year:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;"><a href="http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/03/caldera-canadian-whisky-maritimes-in.html">http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/03/caldera-canadian-whisky-maritimes-in.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Graham and I have gone through 4 bottles of this since March, we've also ensured friends in Ontario, New Brunswick and Quebec get bottles. It's truly a lovely whisky that is well worth the price tag. He's working on getting this available across Canada and it's just been released in some part of the USA as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Jarret, I very much look forward to trying other products as you evolve as a distillery. Thank you so much for Hurricane 5. For as long as we can buy it, it will be our "boat" whisky... guaranteed!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Cheers,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: large;">Lassie</span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-57421340466523383812017-01-03T15:39:00.002-08:002017-01-03T16:56:00.105-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown of 2016 - Number 5, well worth the hype?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">After seeing Rogue One last week, I have to admit I wasn't overly impressed. Cue diving into the camera in slow motion while massive explosions go on, cue the sappy heart string music when Jyn's father dies in her arms. Well, at least she got 10 seconds with him after not seeing him in 16 years. Bla bla bla... Hollywood has ruined so many movies for me these last few years. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Many whisky enthusiasts will tell you that Marketing bullshit was likely just as rampant in 2016. In some cases I would say they were well justified so when Diageo came out with Lagavulin 8 for the 200th anniversary of the distillery, I'm sure a few people rolled their eyes as the marketing team gushed how Alfred Barnard had enjoyed an "exceptional 8 year old" back in 1880 something or other. Of course, others immediately started to complain about the price as well. Me, well... I'm about trying it at least and then making my decision on whether or not what is inside the bottle is worth the money. But, that's me ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">I landed in London on April 22nd and went directly to my "big brother" Dave's house. After a short nap, a huge feast thanks to Kiat (MY GOD THAT WOMAN CAN COOK!?!), we settled in for a few drams, a proper catch up and a game plan for the next couple of days. When Dave asked what whiskies I wanted to ensure I bring home, first on my list to try and then buy if I liked it was the Lagavulin 8. Try and buy I DID! I didn't open it until June, after I got home where we brought it down to the boat. It was gone by August 1st. IT IS... that good. I want you to also consider the fact that we don't usually drink peated whiskies in the summer either. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Lagavulin 8 year old, 200th anniversary edition bottled at 48% ABV. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Colour: Barely there, wisp of yellow</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Nose: Delicate but the style of Lagavulin is there. More soft on the vanilla and hardly any cereal notes. The peat is not overly aggressive (that was my fear). After it sits in the glass for a few minutes, unripened pears or bananas. There's a bit of "green" in there but it's not unpleasant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Palate: Alive! This is where the peat comes in. It's organic though, not overly smoky. It reminds me of a wet forest - damp earth and moss. A bit more time in the glass and it does become a bit more shortbread "cooky'ish". Very nice, oily/buttery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Finish: Eucalyptus, gingery with smoky overtones. Sweet, peat reek! Lovely.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0u2A33Dn4yS0qhf7Q8NeGxc4dHjLmb-bQC8VkNk2Pc3gSuPFC8SNobkVoFBsLaf2xUlzgat4HGDeSW8NT9RGTZBetAsi_l8UI_HYoHvzby0BkoRs8OzfFh-j4dJ7QWdjWQuvPyyWAvS5/s1600/IMG_7323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0u2A33Dn4yS0qhf7Q8NeGxc4dHjLmb-bQC8VkNk2Pc3gSuPFC8SNobkVoFBsLaf2xUlzgat4HGDeSW8NT9RGTZBetAsi_l8UI_HYoHvzby0BkoRs8OzfFh-j4dJ7QWdjWQuvPyyWAvS5/s400/IMG_7323.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>OF COURSE WITH LOBSTER!!</strong></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">We made sure to share this with as many friends as we could over the 2 months we drank it and when it finally made its way to Canada in November, there was a lineup to get a bottle. Luckily, we got ours and it's now safely sitting in the collection. My only regret: Not getting 2, because here in my province it's already all gone....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Highly recommend getting a bottle of this if you haven't already. It may be Lagavulin 16's little brother but my goodness how I wish they would consider keeping this one in their regular line up because this is another Lagavulin done right.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Cheers,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: large;">Lassie</span> </div>
Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-50210553749645550472017-01-02T10:18:00.001-08:002017-01-02T10:18:45.913-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown for 2016 - Moving along to number 6!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjix4csCrVMKxkLaKKztcEW36gBZuA4DkPtSo_HjF4etDZBuE38qr-N1MdLxDQTs1DGMV-IvkQ5Zzu-1X4GrONX20aJJ60EfVuY_aVrWngg9Ygi_-YhPPgF30rZSET2id3BwfjrH-SSVzUP/s1600/NUMBER+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjix4csCrVMKxkLaKKztcEW36gBZuA4DkPtSo_HjF4etDZBuE38qr-N1MdLxDQTs1DGMV-IvkQ5Zzu-1X4GrONX20aJJ60EfVuY_aVrWngg9Ygi_-YhPPgF30rZSET2id3BwfjrH-SSVzUP/s1600/NUMBER+6.png" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I was asked to be the guest writer for the Secret Spirits Advent Calendar this year, I was quite excited. I wasn't necessarily worried but hoped "life" wouldn't get too much in the way and that I'd be able to write, review and post every day for 25 days. Other than one small technical glitch, I was successful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I did a bit of research and looked at the previous years for this particular advent calendar. My initial thought was: "Wow, if it's half as good as year 1 or 2, man I'm in for a treat". Sure enough, the whiskies did not disappoint. My only dilemma - > WHAT whiskies do I want to try and buy!? I have no self control when it comes to these things sometimes. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, I narrowed it down to 3...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whisky #6 on my countdown is quite a memorable one indeed for a few reasons. A) It was really a great dram, B) It's one of those rare whiskies that many people have yet to try and C) I had the chance to visit the distillery last spring (it's not usually open to the public). Maybe it's just me, but once I've visited a distillery it makes the whisky all the more special, in most cases (except for Penderyn, hehe but that's a whole other story). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What's interesting with regards to this distillery visit was that I had the opportunity to walk around with Ian Logan (International Brand Ambassador Chivas Brothers/Pernod Ricard) which, that in itself was a huge honour as there are not many of these great experienced ambassadors left in the industry. He and I had a really great conversation about the fact that things are changing so quickly in the industry right now. The people coming in are team leaders or process managers. They get shifted around to many different distilleries so that they can learn all aspects of the companies, etc... Not to say this is a bad thing by any mean because it does make for a more rounded distillery manager down the line. The people that are retiring right now have a wealth of knowledge and stories that will soon be lost. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It made me consider writing a book of some sort, but I haven't quite put my finger on what exactly I want to write about. I'll take 2017 to ponder that a bit and come up with a few ideas for sure!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So back to the whisky you ask.. what is number 6?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It was the Samaroli Allt a Bhainne 8 year old:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/12/day-7-luckiest-of-days-so-far.html">http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/12/day-7-luckiest-of-days-so-far.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I very much look forward to getting a bottle of this whisky and sharing it with as many friends as possible. It's a fantastic whisky.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thanks to Jonathan for introducing to Samaroli's and an even bigger thanks to Ian for being a wealth of knowledge and making that day in Speyside a very memorable one indeed. Cheers gentlemen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-10005650064923077922016-12-31T12:52:00.002-08:002016-12-31T12:52:39.390-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown of 2016 - Number 7!! Old young whiskies are where it's at!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I didn't travel as much in 2016 as I normally do. Family "stuff" kept me close to home. However, I was fortunate to take part in 4 or 5 tastings where old young whisky was being served. Two examples were at our very own festival here in New Brunswick -> The New Brunswick Spirits Festival where the Saturday master classes are for the true whisky geek. These classes would make most of you green with envy. This year we were extremely lucky to have Davin de Kergommeaux lead us through a vertical of Imperial whiskies. You read correctly. A vertical selection of whiskies from a silent distillery. The line up:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. G&M Connoisseurs Choice, D1970 - B1987</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. Signatory Un-chillfiltered collection, D1995 - B2015 Cask 50229 & 50330</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. G&M Connoisseurs Choice, D1993-B2011</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. G&M Exclusive, D1998 - B2014 Cask 1224</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. Imperial 15 (Distillery Bottling)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">6. Benn a Cheo, D1995 - B2013 Cask 50229</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What an amazing tasting to attend! BUT WAIT!!! Then the second tasting started and, if you can imagine was even more amazing:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Entitled the Chairman's dram, this class sold out almost immediately and had people travel over 2,000km just to attend. Why you ask?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. G&M Rosebank, D1979 - B1993</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. G&M Millburn, D1971 - B1988</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Springbank 12 Rum wood, D1989 - B2002</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. G&M Port Ellen D1974</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. Littlemill 8 year old late 1970's</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">6. Port Charlotte 15 year old, Nouet Private Cask</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now... I dare any of you to tell me this was not a whisky enthusiast dream dram day! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of the 12 drams I tried that day, many were the type of dram where the entire room was so quiet you could have heard someone's stomach rumble if they were hungry! But... the stand out for me, above all the rest, was the Signatory Imperial 10 year old (Bet you thought this Lassie was going to say the Port Ellen!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It was the best Imperial I've ever tasted and as far as I'm concerned should be one of the bench marks of what an ex-bourbon matured whisky should nose/taste like. It truly was perfection for me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And yes... I took notes:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabbqr-UY74OB9257k6BmDuK2QeGwKdFbNSGBCm3Dvver550yA7FeJmU3I5MRnoBV58VR-Wr0n4gWOT1fhzBkreVBIfh_zfgVKPf_9-SAdAT73hnDrM7Xi9jVNpYezO1OaTjgdyx1IIegO/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabbqr-UY74OB9257k6BmDuK2QeGwKdFbNSGBCm3Dvver550yA7FeJmU3I5MRnoBV58VR-Wr0n4gWOT1fhzBkreVBIfh_zfgVKPf_9-SAdAT73hnDrM7Xi9jVNpYezO1OaTjgdyx1IIegO/s320/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Colour: Old gold</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nose: Fresh coconut milk, papaya and mango salad. Really fragrant!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Palate: Honeyed vanilla whipped cream on a fresh Caribbean salad. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Finish: Long, sweet and very warming. Creamy even.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What a dram! What a Saturday... Hell, what a festival!!! The door is always open for anyone who would like to come and experience our festival, seriously one of the best in North America and worth every single dollar!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's to the unicorns and the once in a lifetime opportunities. I hope 2017 has more of these on the horizons.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Cheers and down to number 6 and 5 tomorrow!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
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<br />Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-20753111106598925632016-12-30T17:20:00.000-08:002016-12-31T01:21:17.072-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown of 2016 - Number 8 Springbank 16 tradesies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjNavSE2NWQ4Orz4xIOWk2SqOijcjcbgnO4f45ClNhUCs5vL9Cj6fNkAnMm1Uk11xkfTGDKJHJmNBYDhaTqUgK1Dhqf2uxcOlYtYf-nQUUij74dvuTs1JqVDQ-OETcvc3VcZ7YMlAh6ixG/s1600/8.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjNavSE2NWQ4Orz4xIOWk2SqOijcjcbgnO4f45ClNhUCs5vL9Cj6fNkAnMm1Uk11xkfTGDKJHJmNBYDhaTqUgK1Dhqf2uxcOlYtYf-nQUUij74dvuTs1JqVDQ-OETcvc3VcZ7YMlAh6ixG/s320/8.png" width="205" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So last year in Campbeltown Graham and I met these two guys: Vit and Damian. They made our couple of days at Springbank probably the most memorable of the entire trip. Between the four of us you had a full bowl of "crazy". Several times I found myself clutching my ribs because I had laughed so much. It was an awesome time. 2016 came along, and Graham would not be travelling to Scotland with me this time. Vit got a hold of me on facebook and asked if we would be at the Campbeltown Festival and I responded with a no. I told him what my plans were, where I would be going and it didn't coincide with their annual trip back to the festival. Bummer....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A few months later, Vit messaged me again to let me know that he had been lucky enough to procure a few bottles of the newly released Springbank 16 Local Barley and the best part, he was willing to save me a bottle for Graham. We just needed to figure out how to get it to me. I wasn't worried about it as the # whiskyfabric comes through in mysterious ways. I didn't tell Graham and was hoping to surprise him. About a month later, I was fortunate enough to arrange a few days in London with my friends Dave & Kiat Worthington, this would allow me to travel with Kat (their daughter) to Scotland and make arrangements to see Vit & Dave. I was super excited! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Vit accepting his Lot 40</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I wanted to make sure I did something really nice for Vit, so while I was visiting Don Livermore in Windsor he made a customized bottle of Lot 40 for him on my behalf. I also brought over a few other bottles of Canadian whisky for consumption purposes ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The day came where I got to play tourist and Dave was kind enough to be my guide in London, yet once more. We contacted a few people and had a meet up at the SMWS. I had a fantastic evening with the lot of them. Drams were shared, bottles exchanged and once again my sides hurt from laughing so much. Vit and Dave, were... as crazy as ever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Springbank 16 Local Barley traveled with me for 3 weeks all over Scotland and as tempted as I was to break it open, I didn't. When I arrived home, I unpacked my luggage and presented Graham with the bottle. He was super excited. "Can we open it!!!?", I yelled... "No", was the answer. I spent the next two months asking on a regular basis if we could open it yet and the answer was NO... Groan....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I eventually gave up knowing Graham would open it in his own time. The moment finally came when the bottle came up from the basement and the cork was popped! Drams were poured among friends and we enjoyed the whisky. Great discussion, good friends and a fantastic Springbank -> What more could we possibly want. This time though, I TOOK NOTES! hehe</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxf80kmpE-IIXIF6FFLOk7kOXU5ynUkXRJ5NejYLle2c-tFhfqrDg5_7jLsmTuLZPJo_DpYCQE57w2MWBTMWYQDId1mbhECOsNpDEDn3LsGV8QZ8P4CIpFaps0e3JWbEQoQ1j_EnPFU_sH/s1600/IMG_7266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxf80kmpE-IIXIF6FFLOk7kOXU5ynUkXRJ5NejYLle2c-tFhfqrDg5_7jLsmTuLZPJo_DpYCQE57w2MWBTMWYQDId1mbhECOsNpDEDn3LsGV8QZ8P4CIpFaps0e3JWbEQoQ1j_EnPFU_sH/s320/IMG_7266.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Springbank 16 Local Barley, 54.3% ABV.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Colour: Golden sunshine</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nose: Springbank at its finest: Damp earth, tomato plant leaves, with a hint of diesel fuel or refinery by-products.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Palate: Sweet, slightly smoky with that distinctive peppery and oily mouthfeel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Finish: Not as long as some of the other Springbanks I love, but this is warming, spicy and quite satisfying.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This Springbank is a well balanced, delicious dram and other than some of the drams I've had straight out of the barrel at the distillery (There's nothing better than hearing Gavin sing: "Baby your a firework!", this is the best Springbank I've ever had... so far ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There's something quite special about knowing people in the #whiskyfabric. There are so many times when simple conversations lead to lasting friendships. An enquiry on Facebook such as, as anyone tried "this" yet, leads to a sample offer. Where the announcement of a trip turns into 12 people going to a festival together for a week. It's what I love so much about being Whiskylassie.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Me.... and "auto correct" Dave!</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you Vit for thinking of Graham when this bottle came to the market. It's not something we would have ever seen here. I hope you enjoy the Canadian whiskies I brought over and that I get to see you and Damian again someday soon!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie...</span><br />
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Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-89116874997385836902016-12-29T15:18:00.002-08:002016-12-29T15:18:19.039-08:00Lassie's top 12 countdown for 2016 - Number 9 Great uncle Donnie's gift <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On March 25th, Donald MacKenney passed away at the age of 82. He was Graham's great uncle. A bachelor who never married or had children of his own. He loved to cook, he loved to tell corny jokes and he loved his nieces and nephews dearly. Uncle Donnie as we called him, was the patriarch of the MacKenney clan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, those of you who know me know that I'm a huge proponent of opening your whiskies now, while you are here and able to enjoy them. I always cringe when I hear people say: "Oh, I'm saving that one for a special occasion". Why do we need special occasions to open some of these? Isn't the fact that we are here, in the present, enough? Those were the questions I always pondered in my head but never said out loud. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In late April when we were helping clean out uncle Donnie's house, we found several old bottles of liquor in the basement. George (Graham's dad) looked at a few of them and asked if Graham and I wanted an old ceramic crock of Ballantine's that was tucked away under the bar. Apparently, Donnie had been holding on to it for a special occasion. I shook my head... Another example of the "special occasion" that never came. Graham examined the crock and thanked his dad. When we got it home, we examined it a bit closer. It was filthy, covered in years of dirt and neglect. We did a bit of research and discovered that it was from the 1960's but we had no idea what the condition of the liquid was like inside. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Donnie's was cleaned, everything was gone and the house was ready to be sold. Life... moved on. I went to Scotland, spent an amazing 3 weeks there. Graham stayed home and got the boat ready for launch. The next thing we knew it was the 3rd week of June and father's day was around the corner. We invited everyone over for a family dinner. George, Micky, Colin and his fiance Stephanie. After the meal, Graham went downstairs and brought up the Ballantine's. He poured everyone a dram and then surprised us with the whiskies. Jokingly Graham warned us this could be most horrible and so we raised our glasses to the memory of Donnie. In silence we drammed. George had a few tears in his eyes, which of course caused the rest of us to get a bit emotional as well. My father in law took very good care of his uncle in those last years of his life. It's what family does and I could not be prouder to be part of this one. The whisky, by the way, was absolutely sublime. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We all took turns telling stories about Donnie that night, we laughed and we truly enjoyed this very old and special whisky. I had a bit of an epiphany. I realized that even though I'm a staunch believer in opening and enjoying my whiskies, we would have never had the chance to try the Ballantine's the way we did if Donnie was of the same mindset. The reality is, the special occasion in this case, was Donnie himself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I will likely never drink all the whiskies we have in our collection, mind you we will try our best ;) But I do know, that there is some comfort in knowing there just might be a few bottles left over that will be opened and toasted in my own honour when I leave this place we call earth. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As always, my thought is share those whiskies with the people you love now, but... now I'll add: Maybe hold on to a few just in case you know people who might appreciate raising a toast in your honour once you pass.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cheers and can't wait to tell you what lies ahead for the rest of the top 12... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-21261182455296689662016-12-28T17:00:00.000-08:002016-12-29T13:36:40.297-08:00Lassie's Top 12 countdown for 2016 - Benromach 35 rounds out spot #10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMhySwpgTdq3ShswfbTahKQzQvoYaOU3wp9bN1xTh69eqA0yuRIZFvcIOE3AIMSJEX96hzTeBEGX8eyYsdN7aJ4oqSsZj8ytQSNCZOXVyjM_gNVyYSBZBVBaXBZgTQSTIr4TzC_JwIV1O/s1600/top+10.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMhySwpgTdq3ShswfbTahKQzQvoYaOU3wp9bN1xTh69eqA0yuRIZFvcIOE3AIMSJEX96hzTeBEGX8eyYsdN7aJ4oqSsZj8ytQSNCZOXVyjM_gNVyYSBZBVBaXBZgTQSTIr4TzC_JwIV1O/s1600/top+10.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Benromach has quickly made a name for itself. Their whiskies have developed a reputation as well as huge following in the very short time they have been on the market. I've had several of their different bottlings and always have at least 3 of them as staples in our collection: Benromach 10, 15 and Peat Smoke. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As part of my trip to Scotland in 2016, I went to the Spirit of Speyside Festival. If you've never been: A) What are you waiting for? B) It's a MUST do for any whisky enthusiasts bucket list. Seriously! Take a look at their website: <a href="http://www.spiritofspeyside.com/">www.spiritofspeyside.com</a> if you don't believe me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One of the highlights of the festival for me this year was attending an evening at Benromach on April 29th. It was an intimate evening with some of the stillmen that laid some of the last casks in the 80's such as Willie McArthur and Tom Anderson, as well as the current distillery manager Keith Cruickshank and a few other very distinguished guests. We listened to stories of old as well as new and then went for a walk through the distillery. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I watched Willie and Tom as they walked through, pointing out where certain areas had changed drastically. The distillery seem to come alive as Tom told us about the days when they were all younger men working there. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwaICOBgRlUGjRk1NIWiSO2tay1FBfeJrd-mL44jltR_1ykF8NhsUI_zi4zwzunWsrCppB8KxXO0cX13JoLFx-1Ojqpt_PTBXnPUBeRGePr4xxNHeylMTNl-lzOSUhv080zVVJwSd7-UX/s1600/IMG_7251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWwaICOBgRlUGjRk1NIWiSO2tay1FBfeJrd-mL44jltR_1ykF8NhsUI_zi4zwzunWsrCppB8KxXO0cX13JoLFx-1Ojqpt_PTBXnPUBeRGePr4xxNHeylMTNl-lzOSUhv080zVVJwSd7-UX/s400/IMG_7251.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Tom, me and Willie after the grand tour - honoured</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tom continued to regal us with touching stories of their camaraderie and friendships through the entire tour. They were truly like a band of brothers. At the end of the grand tour we went down to the filing station area and the gentlemen were each presented with a bottle of the Benromach 35 year old. A bottle was opened, drams were poured and we all toasted the stillmen of yesteryear. The evening was quite special indeed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now I reviewed this dram back in February of 2016. The dram is a very special one indeed. My review is here in the event you want the official nosing/tasting notes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/04/benromach-35-delivers-more-than-just.html">http://whiskylassie.blogspot.ca/2016/04/benromach-35-delivers-more-than-just.html</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I will forever remember the dram, the opportunity to meet Willie and Tom and the many sensory experiences and memories that are all linked together as a result. Benromach 35 easily makes the top 10 of this Lassie's 2016 list of most memorable drams.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmTeRG2vQ0AgN-ZC-ms1Y7T26MVWtQqSk_6A4ZLi0fZuC3TmDALKzbsQT0TCeCwdIrkkDxeI1exxNsPG3zHLKvnhdaQd6Ffj-Mu6lAYUs0wCzi_iak8r3YpgvCL7iET8oDyMGPHJ6eAGl/s1600/IMG_7252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSmTeRG2vQ0AgN-ZC-ms1Y7T26MVWtQqSk_6A4ZLi0fZuC3TmDALKzbsQT0TCeCwdIrkkDxeI1exxNsPG3zHLKvnhdaQd6Ffj-Mu6lAYUs0wCzi_iak8r3YpgvCL7iET8oDyMGPHJ6eAGl/s320/IMG_7252.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's to the people we love and the drams that are truly special.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Lassie</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1500682706791055626.post-3699914728829203342016-12-27T12:20:00.001-08:002016-12-27T12:20:20.103-08:00Lassie's Top 12 countdown for 2016 - Whisky #11 Single Grain Single Cask Goodness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I know it was late 2013 when my friend Dave Alcock (</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thewhiskydramalista.com/">www.thewhiskydramalista.com</a>) </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">contacted me on twitter. I don't remember if it was a twitter tasting he participated in </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">or if his keen eyes had found this bottle somewhere but either way it was something he remembered I had been looking for. "Do you want me to get you a bottle and we will figure out how to get it to you?" Without any doubt or further thought the answer was a resounding YES!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, he did. Bought it and held on to it for me until I was able to see him in spring of 2014. I was fortunate enough to spend a few days with him on a grand tour of the UK. Was one of the highlights of my trip actually. He and his wife were not only great hosts but I felt like I had known them for years or like they were family. Dave and I shared many amazing drams in his whisky shed, we all went on a #whiskyfabric road trip to Penderyn (which was a story in itself). He let me be a tourist in his hometown and ensured that I saw Stonehenge (Huge bucket list moment for me!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The bottle in question was the Clan Denny Single Cask Single Grain Invergordon vintage 1966. Cask HH 7254, Ex-bourbon bottled at 47.1% ABV which made it back to Canada and then sat until October 7th when we held a club meeting at a friend's cottage. We ate a traditional Indian meal including an egg curry (amazing), we shared many a whisky and then we finished the evening with a bonfire overlooking the St. John's river. I opened the 1966 that night and as we all sat in silence mulling over the whisky, it brought me back to Dave's house. A morning when I woke up to the most beautiful guitar playing and how I closed my eyes and simply stayed in the moment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I eventually snuck out to the living room and didn't say a word, just continued to listen to Dave. Of course I snapped one of my favourite photos at that point :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's always amazing to me that a dram can transport you back in time to an exact moment. I will say this again, no other spirit has the capability to do that for me. I made a promise to myself that night at the bonfire on that chilly October night that "we" would finish that 1966 before the end of the year. I shared it often and gladly. Did I take notes: Nope... ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The bottle was laid to rest on Saturday November 26th at the New Brunswick Spirits Festival. Friends present: Saravana, Mark, Stephanie, Benoit, Larry and Graham. In hindsight I really should have gotten everyone to sign it so that I could remember who got to try it with me, I'll remember for my 55th, hehe!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you to Dave over in Bristol UK for getting this lovely bottle for me and appreciating that when I turned 50, I should have something quite special to share. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's to looking out for one another and sharing what we have! Likely the fastest bottle drunk in 2016... it was worth the wait.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Number 11 - Thanks!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lassie</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Whisky Lassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08701643378299691540noreply@blogger.com0