5 Situations That Call for a Whisky
Well. Christmas may have come and gone, but there’s still plenty to celebrate over the next several months, and what better way to celebrate than with a GreatDram of whisky (my first shameless plug of the year, and certainly not the last)?
As the January blues begin to kick in, it’s important to look ahead to brighter times and find something to lift your spirits. This could be a bit of retail therapy, booking a well-deserved holiday, or simply finding the time to indulge in the things you enjoy.
Of course, as you’re here, reading a whisky blog on our whisky site, chances are you’re a fan of the ole Scotch drink. If so, may I first congratulate you on being an individual of exquisite taste. As you know, drinking whisky is one of life’s many pleasures but did you know there are so many situations out there just begging for a wee dram?
Don’t believe me? I’ll prove it. Here’s a look at 5 situations that definitely call for a whisky!
When Visiting a Distillery
There are plenty of things that bring me great joy and happiness in life, and visiting a whisky distillery is most definitely one of them.
Because of what I do for a living, I’m fortunate enough to regularly get to visit some of the most stunning whisky distilleries in the entire world. Whilst there, it is of course customary to enjoy a wee dram of whisky.
When touring a distillery, you’ll likely get to enjoy a few tasters and samples depending upon the tour or experience you take part in, though it never hurts to check out the gift shop either. If you can, I recommend visiting distilleries across Scotland’s different whisky regions. That way you get to experience different drams from different regions and find out first hand just how different they are to one another.
When Experiencing the Great Outdoors
Not too long ago, I wrote about whisky hip flasks and some of the different scenarios in which they’d come in handy. Off the top of my head, I believe I mentioned a camping trip and a round of golf as two possible scenarios. Well, this time I’d like to go one better and talk about the great outdoors in general.
Whether you’re on a camping trip with friends or family, fishing the banks of the River Spey, or stopping off at a countryside pub after a hike through the Cairngorms, a dram or two of whisky is the perfect way to make any outdoor experience that little bit more magical.
As our climate is, somewhat temperamental, I recommend something with a bit of bite during the colder months of the year. For plenty of fire in the lungs, a rich and smoky Islay like an Ardbeg 10 Year Old would work wonders. For a mellower, fruiter, more gentle warming experience, our Strathmill 10 Year Old Smoky Speyside Single Malt Scotch would be ideal.
During a Games Night
Haven’t you heard? Staying in is the new going out, and if you’re planning a night in with your friends, make sure you’ve a fine bottle of whisky handy.
Every so often, Kirsty and I like to get together with our friends and enjoy a games night. When we do, you best believe there’s whisky to be had by all. If you’re planning a games night with friends or family, whisky is a great tipple to really set the scene, and bring out everyone’s competitive sides.
A poker night for example, to conjure up images of those riverboat paddle steamer casinos chugging along the Mississippi, would call for a fine bourbon. In particular, I can recommend an Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, Wild Turkey Rare Breed, or even an old faithful like Buffalo Trace.
If playing Monopoly, just have the wherewithal to keep your whisky well away from the board. That way, when somebody inevitably flips the table in a rage after being declared bankrupt, you know your precious whisky/whiskey is safe and sound.
During a Fancy Dinner
Wine is typically the beverage of choice when paired with fine dining, but as you probably know, whisky can work just as well if paired with the right foods.
If you’re out for a swanky dinner, or even if you’re cooking it yourself, choosing the right dram of whisky can really help to make an already exceptional dish taste that little bit more amazing.
As we’re currently in the midst of game season, you want strong and punchy drams that match the strong and ‘gamey’ notes of the meat itself. Islay is the region you should be looking to for inspiration here as the bold and smoky notes work wonderfully with meats such as pheasant, grouse, and partridge.
For lighter, more delicate seafood dishes, something a little more refined and fruity, like a fine Speyside or Lowlands expression, would work great. Also, don’t discount Irish whiskey here either. Its silky smooth and fruity character goes great with seafood and white meat.
Just Because
Finally, sometimes you don’t need a specific situation or experience to enjoy a fine dram of whisky. Sometimes, you can simply enjoy one, just because.
Had a rough day at work? No problem, kick off your shoes, slip into your comfies, and pour yourself a dram of your favourite tipple. Looking to treat yourself at the start of the weekend? Awesome, a Friday night pour of whisky will see you right.
In truth, you don’t need a situation, a reason, or an excuse to enjoy something that brings you pleasure, and that most definitely includes whisky. So go ahead, grab your favourite glass, pop the stopper on your whisky of choice, and pour yourself a well-deserved dram. Ah, bliss.
If you’d like to learn more about your favourite whiskies, or simply treat yourself to a dram or two in the process, head on over to GreatDrams.com and take a look at the diverse selection of unique whiskies we currently have in stock.
With an impressive selection of limited-edition, rare, and award-winning whisky, as well as heaps of whisky info on our blog, it’s the perfect spot for any whisky lovers out there.
Greg
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