Scotch whisky – Butter, Bourbon, and Other Sins

Laws Whiskey House

February 6, 2024February 6, 2024Leave a comment

*Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/lawswhiskey*

If you’re itching to travel this spring, consider visiting Laws Whiskey House in Denver, Colorado. The tasting room debuts this April and is sure to impress with its lineup of straight rye, small-batch whiskey, limited releases, and more.

Not only can you enjoy tasting the various whiskeys from Laws Whiskey House while there, but the ambiance of what’s known as the “Whiskey Church” with floor-to-ceiling arched windows is enough to make the visit worthwhile.

Follow along as we discover why Laws Whiskey is quickly becoming a well-known name in the industry and why you should get your hands on a bottle (or two) for your whiskey collection.

Rocky Mountain High

The grains for whiskey need rugged growing conditions to yield robust and bold flavors. It’s similar to grapes needing to fight through less-than-desirable soil to produce a wine-worthy grape. What better terrain to find rugged growing conditions than the Rocky Mountains?

Another variable critical to whiskey is temperature swings as the whiskey ages, which Denver has plenty of. Mix that with mountain fresh water, heirloom varietal grains, and a host of free thinkers and Master Distillers, whom Laws Whiskey House refers to as “The Village,” and you’ve got a whiskey that is leaving its mark.

The Notes

I recently enjoyed sampling Laws Whiskey House, which included rye, straight wheat whiskey, straight malt whiskey, and their four-grain straight bourbon whiskey. Here’s what I found:

Henry Road Straight Malt Whiskey

Henry Road in Alamosa, Colorado, bisects miles of farm fields, including the farm fields of Cody Family Farm, which grows some of the best barley in the world. Henry Road Straight Malt Whiskey pays honor to this vital farm and grain.

Aromas:

Toasted oats, apple cider, smoke, earthy

Palate:

Iodine, pepper, pipe tobacco

The finish is dry and lingers on the palate. This whiskey is very much for Scotch fans.

Centennial Straight Wheat

This wheat whiskey made from an heirloom soft white spring wheat (Centennial wheat) is the first Colorado-made wheat whiskey to meet the Bottled in Bond Act of 189 standards.

Aromas:

Orange marmalade, butterscotch, floral, honey

Palate:

Spruce, jasmine, sage, pepper

The finish is long, and the layers are complex. Centennial is best enjoyed with an ice cube and no mixers.

San Luis Valley Straight Rye

Another first to be Bottled in Bond in Colorado whiskey from Laws Whiskey House. San Luis Valley, Straight Rye Whiskey comes from single-season rye grains in San Luis Valley and is aged for four years.

Aromas:

Tobacco, honey, black current

Palate:

Oak, mint, serrano pepper, hazelnut

Finishes with sage and coats the palate. The rye is my favorite—layers of flavor and a nice kick. I like rye in an old-fashioned and will be trying that.

Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Before entering the charred oak barrels for three years, Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey is derived from heirloom wheat, rye, barley, and heritage corn from two local Colorado family farms.

Aromas:

Orange blossom, honey, black tea

Palate:

Cinnamon, orange peel, vanilla, and tobacco

The finish is rich and dry. It’s a great bourbon.

Once in a while, a “young” distillery comes along that makes you take notice. Laws Whiskey House is one of them. Each of the whiskeys is impressive, with complex layers and beautiful aromas. I look forward to trying more and getting that rye old-fashioned made soon.

Discovering Glenlivet 12

October 2, 2023October 2, 2023Leave a comment

Whisky enthusiasts worldwide recognize Glenlivet as the epitome of sophistication and craftsmanship. Among its renowned collection, Glenlivet 12 stands tall as a timeless classic. As we embark on a journey through the notes of aroma, palate, and finish of this exceptional single-malt Scotch whisky, prepare to be captivated by its elegance and depth.

I. Aromas: Unveiling the Elegance

man sniffing Glenlivet 12 — *image Credit: https://shutterstock.com/Boldyshav*

The nose opens up to a delicate blend of floral and fruity notes, exuding an air of refinement that is both intriguing and inviting. A bouquet of fresh orchard fruits, such as green apple and pear, entices the senses, while hints of sweet vanilla and subtle oak bring a comforting warmth.

As you inhale deeper, the scent of citrus zest dances, accompanied by a gentle breeze of heather and honeysuckle. These intricate layers of aroma showcase the mastery of the distillation process and the meticulous selection of oak casks, yielding a harmonious bouquet that reflects the essence of Glenlivet’s heritage.

II. Palate: An Artistry of Flavors

Man tasting Glenlivet 12 — *Image Credit: https://shutterstock.com/Cagkan Sayin*

The palate of Glenlivet 12 is a symphony of flavors that glide smoothly across the tongue, evoking a sense of indulgence. The initial sip introduces a velvety mouthfeel, a brand hallmark, and carries the essence of ripe summer fruits with it. Juicy apricots and succulent peaches intertwine with a gentle touch of tropical pineapple, creating a captivating fusion of sweetness and tanginess.

The carefully balanced interplay of flavors deepens, revealing layers of creamy toffee and subtle almond notes. As the whisky gently caresses the palate, a subtle hint of cinnamon spice emerges, imparting a refined complexity to the overall taste profile. The culmination of flavors showcases the artistry behind the blending and maturation processes, establishing Glenlivet 12 as a true masterpiece.

III. Finish: A Timeless Elegance

The conclusion of this remarkable journey brings us to the unforgettable finish of Glenlivet 12. The lingering warmth of toasted oak and a gentle wisp of smoke leaves a lasting impression, showcasing the whisky’s impeccable maturity. The finish is remarkably smooth, emphasizing the brand’s dedication to excellence in craftsmanship.

Throughout the journey, Glenlivet 12 gracefully embodies sophistication, each note painting a portrait of dedication, tradition, and unwavering quality. As the final flavors gracefully fade, a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment embraces the palate, encouraging enthusiasts to relish every moment of this timeless experience.

Conclusion:

In the world of single-malt Scotch whisky, Glenlivet 12 stands tall as an exemplar of elegance and refinement. From the enchanting aroma that entices the senses to the harmonious array of flavors that dance across the palate, and the finish that leaves a lasting impression, this exceptional whisky is a testament to the artistry of its makers.

Raise your glass to Glenlivet 12, and let it whisk you away on an extraordinary adventure of flavors and aromas.

Chivas Regal 18 Scotch Whisky

June 8, 2023June 8, 2023Leave a comment

Regarding fine Scotch whisky, few names carry the prestige and heritage of Chivas Regal.

Among its illustrious range of expressions, Chivas Regal 18 stands out as a true masterpiece, encapsulating the essence of the brand’s artistry and dedication to craftsmanship. From its rich flavor profile to its luxurious presentation, Chivas Regal 18 is a testament to the time-honored traditions of whisky making.

Crafted with Balance in Mind

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Chivas Regal 18 is a blend of more than 20 exceptional single malt and grain whiskies, each aged for a minimum of 18 years. This extended maturation period allows the flavors to develop and meld together, creating a harmonious and complex Scotch whisky that captivates the senses.

One of the defining characteristics of Chivas Regal 18 is its remarkable balance. The master blenders at Chivas Brothers have expertly combined whiskies from different regions of Scotland, each contributing its unique character to the final blend. The result is a symphony of flavors, where the sweetness of fruits and honey dances with the warmth of spices and the richness of oak.

The Notes in Chivas Regal 18

Upon pouring a glass of Chivas Regal 18, one is greeted by a beautiful amber hue, shimmering with hints of gold. The aroma that wafts from the glass is inviting and sophisticated, with notes of ripe apples, citrus zest, and a delicate touch of floral honey. As you take your first sip, the whisky unfolds on the palate, revealing layers of flavors that evolve and linger.

The taste of Chivas Regal 18 is a testament to the craftsmanship of its creators. The smooth and velvety texture coats the tongue, delivering a wealth of flavors. Rich toffee and butterscotch blend seamlessly with dried fruits, such as sultanas and apricots. Spices, including cinnamon and ginger, add a delightful warmth, while dark chocolate and roasted almonds provide a luxurious depth.

The finish of Chivas Regal 18 is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering sweetness that tempts you to savor every last drop. As the flavors slowly fade, the memory of this exceptional whisky remains, creating an enduring impression that will stay with you long after the glass is empty.

Not only does Chivas Regal 18 Scotch whisky excel in taste, but it also showcases the brand’s commitment to elegance and style. The whisky is presented in a sleek, understated bottle that exudes sophistication. The label, adorned with the iconic Chivas Regal crest, symbolizes the brand’s rich heritage and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Chivas Regal 18 is a whisky that should be savored on special occasions and shared with discerning friends. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for a classic cocktail, it is a spirit that elevates any drinking experience.

Chivas 18 Scotch whisky & Fine Cheese

If you’ve never considered Scotch whisky as a drink to enjoy with cheese, it’s time to add the event to your life. The Chivas team contacted Jasper Hill Farm to create the perfect Chivas Regal 18 and cheese pairing. The result is a delight to the senses. We enjoyed a couple of cheeses from Jasper Hill Farm, including their Winnimere, Whitney, and Bayley Hazen Blue. They are all phenomenal. Father’s Day is right around the corner and Dad would love a unique gift of artisan cheese and Scotch Whisky.

In conclusion, Chivas Regal 18 is a testament to the artistry and dedication of Chivas Brothers. From the carefully selected whiskies to the expert blending and elegant presentation, every aspect of this exceptional Scotch whisky speaks of quality and refinement. Whether you are a seasoned whisky enthusiast or exploring the world of Scotch for the first time, Chivas Regal 18 is a true masterpiece that deserves a place in your collection.

The Macallan: Sotheby’s New York

March 15, 2023April 19, 2023Leave a comment

The highly respected Macallan brings impressive results at the Whisky & Whiskey auction.

What began in a humble wooden shed with only two stills in 1824 is now a world-renowned single-malt whisky. The Macallan is one of the most respected names in Scotch whisky, known primarily for its creativity and innovation, such as sherried seasoned oak casks.

Macallan is well respected for many reasons. It’s been distilled for nearly 200 years, is highly endorsed by the one and only James Bond as well as the House of Commons (Macallan is the official Scotch), and, more importantly, The Macallan sets the precedence for how Scotch should taste. Unsurprisingly, it’s turned heads at auctions in the past and sold for jaw-dropping amounts. Earlier this year, a limited-edition Macallan did just that for a good cause.

Sharing proceeds with charity

This year, on February 10^th, Sotheby’s of New York held its first Whisky & Whiskey online sale of the year, and the highlight of the event was a specialty lot comprising of an exclusive, limited-edition version of The Macallan’s recent release, “Distil Your World New York.” One bottle was auctioned, and the other is now kept in the archives in Scotland, making the Distil Your World New York label extremely rare. The limited-edition Macallan achieved $250,000, with proceeds going toward ChaShaMa.

ChaShaMa is a non-profit organization based in New York City, created to help and serve artists. They do so by searching for unused real estate and flipping it into artistic spaces where artists can create and display their work. Thanks to Sotheby’s online auction and the sale of the limited-edition Macallan, the arts, underserved communities, and small businesses in New York City are benefiting.

The Macallan has a long-standing relationship with Sotheby’s and is known for supplying auctions with rare editions for charitable causes. Geoff Kirk, Channel Director Secondary Market at The Macallan, says, “We are delighted to continue our long association of partnering with Sotheby’s to present very special releases that raise funds for charitable organizations around the world. The Macallan has a longstanding history celebrating artistry and supporting the arts and we are proud that the funds from this very special release, which pays homage to one of the world’s most iconic cities, will benefit New York City artists through the ChaShaMa charity.”

The beauty of The Macallan

The Macallan Distillery — Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CY_xJNjDm0I/

The Macallan is more than a whisky. Its deep roots and unwavering passion for perfection and innovation set the standard for the entire industry. They not only produce some of the world’s greatest Scotch, but The Macallan team uses their success and skills to make the world a better place.

If you ever get the opportunity to visit The Macallan Estate in Speyside, Scotland, please take it. The sprawling 485-acre estate is stunning, sharing the scenery of the Speyside region, and inside the distillery is just as impressive. While touring, they offer wonderful experiences that you may book ahead of time.

Bucha Colada

March 13, 2023March 22, 20233 Comments

If you dig piña coladas, you’ll appreciate this one. Buchanan’s Pineapple puts a new twist on the classic, and truly, it was made for this tropical drink.

Over crushed ice or frozen

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Buchanan’s Pineapple

• 2 oz Pineapple Juice

• 1 oz Coconut Cream

• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice

Glassware: Highball Glass

Garnish: Lime Wheel, Angostura Bitters Float

Instructions: Add Buchanan’s Pineapple, pineapple juice, coconut cream, lime juice, and ice

into a shaker and shake until cold. Pour into a highball glass filled with crushed ice, and

top with a float of Angostura bitters. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Alternatively, you can make this frozen in a blender.

Buchanan’s Pineapple

March 13, 2023October 3, 2026Leave a comment

Buchanan’s Pineapple is tropical sunshine in a bottle.

Buchanan’s Whisky is well known for its blended Scotch whisky, but are you aware of one of the most popular ways to mix it? In the Hispanic American community, Buchanan’s whisky is often mixed with pineapple juice as a refreshing cocktail (The Buchanita). So, Buchanan’s made it even easier by combining pineapple and whisky in one bottle. Buchanan’s Pineapple is the first of its kind in the Buchanan portfolio, and you’ll be glad they finally did it. The company was generous enough to send me a sample, and here’s what I found…

The Nose:

The aroma is pineapple-forward with other citrus.

The Palate:

I have to repeat pineapple-forward, but it’s not overkill. This is a sweet-flavored whisky; when they say pineapple, they mean pineapple. On the palate, there is a light note of caramel and vanilla.

The Finish:

At the finish, you’ll remember you’re drinking a blended Scotch whisky. The slightest taste of iodine lingers on the tongue along with tropical fruit.

I know there are skeptics out there regarding flavored whisky; however, perhaps that’s because they had to cut their teeth on the hard stuff back in the day. Today, with a whisky like Buchanan’s Pineapple, a newbie can try whisky without getting “burned.” At only 70 proof, it goes down easy and reveals the slightest taste of Scotch. For old pros, Buchanan’s shakes things up a bit and makes drinking Scotch fun. The pineapple is surprisingly refreshing, and well, to tell you the truth, it was a welcome change for someone currently living through a northern winter. It took me to a tropical paradise, which is what Buchanan wants to do.

Buchanan’s Pineapple is running a campaign on social media for those 21 and older called “It’s Piña,” and it’s all about encouraging a tropical state of mind, whether at home or out on the town. James Buchanan, the founder of Buchanan’s whisky, believed in community and sharing, which led to the 200% concept: 100% American identity + 100% Hispanic identity = 200% life. How beautiful is that?

I don’t see Buchanan’s Pineapple as a Scotch to sip neat but rather on the rocks. Even better, it’s perfect for cocktails. Check out the recipes for Piña Fizz and Bucha Colada.