Every year, the world trembles with anticipation for International Whisk(e)y Day. Originating in 2008 and made official at the 2009 Whisky Festival Northern Netherlands, it was created in homage to world-renowned British whiskey critic, prolific reviewer, and writer Michael Jackson, and it celebrates his birthday. It also has a secondary intention: to raise awareness and money for Parkinson’s Disease research. Jackson had been diagnosed with the disease prior to his death. The concept was the brainchild of some of Jackson’s contemporaries, including such whiskey luminaries as Charles MacLean, Dave Broom, Martine Nouet, and Helen Arthur.
As the original concept was designed, International Whisk(e)y Day (the “e” is parenthetical to honor both spellings) is a day to enjoy all things whiskey-related. Foremost is a recommendation to donate to a Parkisnson’s Research charity, such as the Michael J Fox Foundation. Then, enjoy a unique or special bottle of whiskey (below is a list of our past whiskey reviews that may give you some ideas). If possible, share your special dram with friends and family! And once you’ve had a thoroughly tasty tipple, share your thoughts – about the whiskey, the day, or anything whiskey-related you like – on social media. This day is dedicated to the sheer love of whiskey.
So, if you are looking for that special sipper to honor Mr. Jackson and his joy of whiskey, here are some recommendations that I can wholeheartedly make!
This year, we had the opportunity to sample the 15 and 18-year-old members of Tamdhu’s core collection. For those who may not know the history, Tamdhu set out to create the finest single-malt whisky of its time. Enlisted none other than Charles C Doig ESQ, the creator of the “pagoda” distillery ventilator, Tamdhu designed a state-of-the-art distillery in Knockando on the banks of the River Spey. With the river’s sparkling waters and the finest quality sherry casks imported from Spain, Tamdhu began creating some of the finest Scotch whiskies available. Today, Tamdhu has quietly become a world-renowned purveyor of sherry-cask-matured whiskies, and these two expressions showcase what makes it so special. (READ MORE)
Ardbeg Corryvrecken: The Ultimate Islay Scotch?
Ardbeg Distillery is synonymous with peated Scotch- for many, it defines the genre. Islay Scotch whiskies are characterized by aromas and flavors derived from the peat used to dry the barley, with descriptors often related to the sea- salt, iodine, tarry rope, kippers, phenolic, and more. Few distilleries exhibit as many of these and more than Ardbeg. Like its competitor (and one-time owner) Laphroaig, Ardbeg leans into these flavors and Ardbeg Corryvreckan more than most. Ardbeg was officially founded in 1815 by John MacDougal, although some records indicate he began distilling whisky illegally in 1794. (READ MORE)
Old Overholt’s New 10-Year-Old Cask Strength Rye
Old Overholt 10-Year-Old Cask-Strength Rye is, hopefully, among the first of many special edition releases from Old Overholt moving forward. Brand Ambassador Tim Hueisler explains that this is the first cask strength bottling from Old Overholt since the 1950s, an era that saw the brand’s operation move from western Pennsylvania to its current home in Claremont, Kentucky. The differences between this version and the prior release are plentiful – mash bills, water source, climate, etc. However, one endearing coincidence is that despite being distilled over 60 years apart, they’re bottled at the same 121 proof! (READ MORE)
Exploring Northern Kentucky’s Expanded B-Line Bourbon Trail
Billing itself as the “gateway to Bourbon Country,” the easily accessible NKY area, which sits just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, offers plenty of distinctive opportunities to sip and explore a nice mix of decorated distillers and industry newcomers. A well-vetted lineup of bourbon-centric restaurants and whiskey bars rounds out the promotion. Established in 2018, the B-Line trail — 25 participants strong as of this year — brings these players together collaboratively to generate regional tourism. To get the party started, visitors should plan to snag a free digital or hard-copy “passport” to flash at each location, where they can earn stamps to redeem for prizes. (READ MORE)
American Beauty: Whiskey Del Bac Single Malts
Whiskey Del Bac was among the earliest to push the boundaries of malt whiskey traditions, and the results are undeniably delectable. Starting with a tiny five gal still in 2007, Stephen Paul, his wife, Elaine, and eventually, their daughter Amanda became powerhouses in the American single malt whiskey explosion. But learning to make whiskey wasn’t enough. Stephen wanted total control of the whiskey, so he learned how to malt his own barley. And then he combined malting with his love for mesquite wood smoke. There’s a reason it’s become one of America’s best-loved grilling woods, and he applied its magic as an alternative to traditional peat drying.
There are so many other great whiskeys we’d love to tout, but the list is just too long! We invite you to continue exploring our website so you can check out our own awesome whiskey writers. In the meantime, Happy Birthday, Mr. Jackson – we’ll have a dram in your memory!
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