What is the up-side of a virtual Wee Drammers session? Well, no one has to drive! That’s right. It is possible to host a scotch tasting for 10 people without having to leave the comfort of your own home.
Thanks to Tony who set up our ZOOM session and to Borje (and Kirstin) who personally delivered three 2 oz samples of whiskys (all from Scotland and all stellar samples of the variety of drams available) to the homes of each of the 10 members who were able to make the session.
10 Probians gathered online to sample and share their thoughts on drams provided by our host, Borje. First up was Aberlour 12, one of the best value Highland malts around. This double matured version is a mix of traditional oak and sherry casks and is rich and fruity with delicious Christmas cake notes. Most agreed this dram met and exceeded expectations! More information is available at the Whisky Exchange
Second sample for the night was The Glenglassaugh Revival from Glenglassaugh Distillery. The Highland distillery was mothballed from 1986 until 2008 and this is the first whisky to be made from spirit distilled at the distillery since it reopened. It was matured in a mixture of first-fill bourbon casks and red wine casks before a final short finish in first-fill oloroso sherry butts. As described on the company website, Revival has a finish which is “medium with warming mulled-wine spices, sherry and caramel.”
Being a virtual tasting where no one drives, a third dram was introduced to the group. The Bunnahabhain 12 year old from Islay presented a peaty yet gentle finish to the evening. Described by the Whisky Exchange as “A giant leap forward for Bunnahabhain 12yo, this edition was launched in summer 2010 with a jump in strength to 46.3% and a declaration of no chill-filtration and no added colouring. The producers deserve enormous credit for giving punters what they want without jacking up the price too much and we earnestly hope that this will be a massive success. Bravo!”
Our host for the evening, Borje along with Kerstin personally delivered tastings to our doors. We provided empty glasses, Borje filled them. We even were provided with tasting notes and some food pairing suggestions. An act very hard to follow. A new bar has been set!
Now, we do admit, Borje changed over the evening. As we signed off, our image of him was altered for ever!
Our next tasting (again a virtual experience) will be on May 26 and will be hosted by Ron W.