Thursday, March 25, 2010

An Asian Scotch Whiskey?

This is an older story that seems to have gained traction again. Originally, the story broke in late January as the results of a taste test were revealed.

The Taiwan-distilled Kavalan brand, described as a "Far Eastern incomer," came top in a test against three Scottish and one English whisky in a historic hostelry in Leith, north of Edinburgh

The connoisseurs' blind taste test was organised to mark Scotland's annual Burn's Night festivities. It was meant as a "piece of mischief making". To keep the taster's on their toes so to speak.

"Asians are not only some of the world's most sophisticated consumers of Scotch, but have begun distilling malts that compete with the best Scottish distilleries."

I have my own favorites, that based on these results, would probably place somewhere near the bottom of the pack. Considering that I feel like i have stepped up in my appreciation of good scotch, these results make my mouth water. The Asian people have found many ways to take some original ideas and make them their own unique creations. Maybe fine Scotch Whiskey will be among them. Not to out compete, but to complement available alternatives.