Once the festivities are over, there’s nothing better than kicking back and relaxing with a dram or two of special Christmas whisky. The trick is to understand the basic differences between the various types of whisky, so that you can choose something that will suit your palette – or someone else’s.
Whisky is an extremely thoughtful gift, for whisky novices, connoisseurs and collectors , because of the craftmanship that goes into it. The place of origin and earliest known history of it, known as the whisky’s provenance, also impacts the liquid itself and makes for an interesting story.
There are so many whiskies to choose: Scotch, single malt, blends, and Irish whiskey (yes, it’s spelt with an ‘e’ if it’s Irish), all of which offer a distinctly different drinking experience. No matter what your preference is there’s no reason not to give at least one of these a try this festive season.
The team at Cutler Drinks have picked out their favourite whiskies for you to enjoy (or spoil someone special with) this Christmas season, and a few delicious cocktail recipes for to try these holidays.
Sexton Single Malt
Sexton Irish Whiskey is a new and unexpected single malt for every man. Rich in hue, approachable in taste, and memorable in character, Sexton is made from 100% Irish malted barley that is triple distilled in copper pot stills for smoothness. It is best enjoyed on the rocks.
What makes it special?
Sexton Single Malt Whiskey has the perfect balance of dried fruits and subtle oak notes and a smooth, lingering finish. Sexton is consciously aged for four years in Oloroso sherry butts to achieve a depth of flavour from the wine-imbued barrel that surpasses its years.
Cocktail suggestion
The Sexton Holy Grail
- 50ml Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey
- Top with Soda Water
- 2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
- Garnish with a Twist of Lemon Peel
Highland Park Whisky
The Orkney Single Malt with Viking Soul. Orkney, more specifically, the Orkney Islands, which consist of 70 individual islands, is part of Scotland now, but rewind the tape a few centuries and you’re looking at a vast Viking kingdom. The benefit of history is that various Viking values continue to live on: pride, honour and fierce independence. Every drop of this whisky is a tribute to its ancestors. It is best enjoyed neat, on ice, or with a dash of water (still or sparkling).
What makes it special?
Widely acknowledged as one of the greatest single malts in the world, Highland Park has received numerous awards and accolades including being named “Best Spirit In The World” in the Spirit Journal on three separate occasions. Matured predominantly in sherry seasoned European and American oak casks, Highland Park boasts a portfolio of distinctive single malts – with a 10-year-old, 12-year-old and 18-year-old offering.
Cocktail suggestion:
Salted Honey Old Fashioned
12 Year Old VIKING HONOUR is the heart and soul of Highland Park and this serve emphasises its salty, heather honey notes.
- 50ml 12 Year Old VIKING HONOUR
- 10ml honey syrup (made using equal measures of honey and water)
- Pinch of smoked sea salt
- Dash of orange bitters
- Dash of Angostura bitters
Stir all the ingredients in a mixing glass and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist.
John Bannerman’s Whisky
Bannermans is a very old Scottish name; The ‘banner man’ was the king’s standard-bearer and they had the honour of carrying his flag into war. Bannerman’s is one of the few remaining independently owned blended Scotch Whiskies, and is produced by Kensington Distillers & Vintners, in Scotland, just outside Edinburgh. Enjoy neat in a short glass with a block or two of ice, or in a tall glass over ice mixed with Coke or ginger ale.
What makes it special?
John Bannerman’s Whisky is made using a very slow distillation process, which ensures as much copper contact as possible. This creates Bannerman’s beautifully fruity flavours.
Tasting notes:
A delicate vanilla-toffee smell, with rich notes of honey and oak and a long, smooth finish.
Cocktail suggestions:
Ginger Brave
- 50ml bannermans whisky
- Ginger Ale
- Slice of lime
Take a large wedge of lime, give it a squeeze and drop it into the glass
Naked Grouse Scotch Whisky
Naked Grouse is a blend of the world’s finest single malts, extra matured for six months in “naked” first-fill Oloroso sherry casks. This process adds a layer of rich and fruity flavour, creating a versatile whisky, perfect for enjoying your way. Best enjoyed in a traditional Whisky Sour with lemon juice, simple syrup and egg white served on ice.
What makes it special?
Naked Grouse is an extra-matured, unique blend of the world’s finest single malts. Naked Grouse has been relaunched as a blended malt, based around sherry-matured whiskies from Macallan and Highland Park. Naked Grouse is aged in first-fill sherry casks and gets its name from these “naked casks” that have never held whisky before.
Cocktail suggestion:
Whisky Grapefruit Sour
If you like your sours extra sour, give this one a go! The tartness of the grapefruit is balanced by a drop of sweet honey and pairs perfectly with our rich and fruity whisky
- 50ml Naked Malt
- 50ml Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
- 20ml Lime juice
- 12.5ml Honey
- Bitters
Add all ingredients into the shaker and shake with ice, strain over ice and garnish with grapefruit twist.
For more information and to buy online visit: www.cutlerdrinks.co.za
