WITH Geoff focusing on a classic Scottish favourite, I thought I'd do the same this week and look at single malt whisky.
There is an incredible number of different styles on the market in a multitude of ages and cask finishes from dozens of different distilleries. And that's before you consider the old and collectable bottles from defunct distilleries that you'll only find at auctions and in a few very good pubs. Two of the best pubs for malt lovers that I've come across are the Pot Still and the Bon Accord, both with knowledgeable staff and selections that have made many a grown man go weak at the knees.
So, I'm keeping it simple by looking at just one distillery. Bowmore is the oldest distillery on the beautiful island of Islay and dates back to 1779. The peaty whiskies are perfectly balanced and come in a range of prices from the downright affordable bargain (currently on offer in Sainsbury's at £25) to the arm-and-a-leg rarity (the 50-year-old is sublime, and only available in specialist shops at an eye-watering price).
In between you have the excellent 15 and 18-year-old expressions, as well as a range of limited editions that you can sometimes find for a decent price. Look out for the Devil's Cask Small Batch Release No.2 and the Tempest No.5, which are both quaffable and collectable. This, of course, means that you'll need at least two bottles. As my lovely wife Laura would say, one to drink, and the second one to drink after the first one is finished.
The Bowmore Darkest 15-year-old (Majestic, £50) is one of my favourites from the range. It has been finished for two years in Oloroso sherry casks adding a lovely depth and sweetness to the peat and sea salt. An Islay classic.
Pete Stewart is Glasgow director of Inverarity One to One, 185a Bath Street, Glasgow. www.inverarity121.com
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