A perfect location for the first f-2-f meeting of the Wee Drammers since the -pre-pandemic period was John G.’s lower deck on a warm but cloudy first Tuesday of summer 2020. All 11 members of the group gathered at John’s, keeping social distancing in mind, spreading out easily across three strategically situated tables and chairs.
John was a perfect host, ensuring the group was able to remain socially distanced while at the same time, socializing and, of course, enjoying another two drams of single malt.
Two more sample of Scotlands finest were offered. First, was a label unfamiliar to all. The McCaughanuck 10 year old turned out to be a mystery. It was bottled as a unique label for a group of John’s friends. While the label was unique, the most likely dram originated from Bruichladdich; a perfect unpeated single malt originating in Islay. A beautifully rich dram, with hints of sugar and ever so sweet, the dram was a hit for sure.
Second up was a 15 year old Springbank from Campbeltown. With hints of demerara sugar, dark chocolate, Christmas cake. almonds and toffee, we were left with an after taste of oak and sherry and an additional lingering hint of leather.
Both drams were a hit with the group. Conversation among the three tables continued well past the final 7:00 PM bell. John ensured the group mixed by insisting we re-arrange ourselves part way through the evening.
Accompanying the drams was an array of smoked salmon, cheese, chocolate, smoked kielbasa and crackers.
It was great to talk f-2-f while taking care to follow Dr. Henry’s guidelines of staying safe, being kind and remaining calm, not a hard task given the soothing nature of the whisky.
Next up, we will gather at Jim W. in July to sample another couple of Scotland’s finest.
