On January 25, people in Scotland and around the world gather to celebrate Robbie Burns’ birthday and his life and works. This evening of celebration generally follows a similar pattern: a meal with haggis is served; a good Scottish single malt whiskey is consumed in honour of the poet; the activities of the evening are framed within his poetry. When the haggis is carved, ‘To a Haggis” is recited, with its famous line, “Great chieftain o’ the pudding race”; and, the evening ends aptly with “Auld Lang Syne”.
In honour of Robbie Burns, the Wee Drammers gathered at Bill M’s home on January 25th. 
Our meeting, the last of the 5th year since our gatherings began (next month we begin anew – our 6th) saw eight Wee Drammers (we missed you John and Borje) in attendance. Our host, Bill M., greeted us dressed in his finest tartan. It was obvious the evening would attend to Robbie Burns and most of the traditional protocol for the evening.
Normally, the Wee Drammers are presented with a couple of excellent whiskies and an array of nibbles to accompany them. But, not on Robbie Burns Day. On this occasion, Bill presented the group with a haggis, marched into the room appropriately complete with a serenade of Bagpipes. And, poetry ensued with Bill’s wonderful rendition of the famous poem “To A Haggis” It was a sight to behold!
As is usual for these evenings, two whiskeys are presented. For this evening, Bill chose the Stronachie Limited Edition 10 year old, a delightful Speyside dram from A.D. Rattray distillers, an independent whisky company in operation for over 150 years. A straw gold coloured dram, with a soft honey, earthy, malty nose and smooth honey and biscuit palate, the dram finishes as perfectly balanced and seductive (be careful!). Bill found this at Hammond Bay Liquor store for $97.00.
It’s not often one samples a whisky that comes in at 63.9% ABV. The Highland Park Cask Strength Release No. 2 does just that! A powerful nose presents one with raisins, damp leaves, grapefruit, and brown sugar. The consumer is warned to use a Glencairn glass; other glasses will amplify the nose and can overwhelm! On the palate, caramel and ginger prevail. With a spicey finish that lingers long, this dram is surprisingly pleasant. At $123.oo it’s worth serious consideration.
So, while Auld Lang Syne did not close out the evening, Bill’s plan to celebrate Robbie Burns’ birthday was a great success!
