Eve's Wine 101

The Nth 2022 Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience: Celebrating 10 Years of Flavor, Distinction and Luxury

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The Nth Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience is back with a bang for its glorious 10th anniversary celebrations, to be held once again at the beautiful Wynn Las Vegas Hotel and Resort showcasing the very best our beloved Whisky and Spirits industry has to offer.

There’s no getting away from the fact that the past two years have been as troubling, uncertain and disruptive for the Whisky and Spirits industry as they have been for any other. We’ve seen no shortage of events rescheduled, cancelled, or switched to being held online… so it gives us an enormous amount of pleasure to be back in our spiritual home Las Vegas doing what we do best.

As our 10 year anniversary special, and as our triumphant comeback, we’re pulling out all the stops on the 22nd and 23rd of April 2022 and providing an experience unlike any other. If whisky and fine spirits make your world go round, there’s simply no better place to be.

Nth 2022 is more than just a celebration of fine whisky – it’s a voyage of discovery, a journey into the heart of what makes this world-beating spirit so very special, and an opportunity to take your passion to new heights. What’s more, it’s a chance to share this passion with like-minded individuals, new friends, and experts gathered from around the world, joined together by an unrivalled enthusiasm for sheer excellence.

World class exhibitors, resplendent dinners, meet and greets, Master Classes, Super Pours, High Roller Lounge, opening of new releases, High Roller package (for those seeking to truly make the most of their Nth 2022 experience) justifies its reputation as the world’s leading fine Whisky and Spirits event.

A COVID-Secure Celebration In Style

On the one hand, the team behind the Nth 2022 are keen to ensure that the experience exceeds all expectations in a way befitting all good 10th anniversary celebrations. On the other, we want to ensure that all of our guests and delegates feel safe, remain protected, and that guidelines are adhered to with the latest healthcare advice.

Nth 2022 is, after all, an interactive experience; one at which whisky and fine spirits lovers from across the nation and the globe can come together in celebration, and get up close and personal with their favourite labels. As such, Show Founder Mahesh Patel has been working tirelessly to ensure the safest measures have been taken, with no compromises made when it comes to spectacle and sophistication.

The result? An interactive exhibition experience, which surpasses any of the ten years of whisky convention excellence that has gone before. By working alongside Wynn Resorts, and by adhering to a wide array of health and safety guidelines, we’ve designed Nth 2022 in a way that will keep delegates safe without ever interrupting the pleasure and enjoyment that sits at the heart of the event. The Nth 2022 will go ahead exactly as it should: as a joyful celebration of whisky and spirits. After all, you wouldn’t expect – and don’t deserve – anything less.

A Thrilling Array of Vendors and Exhibitors

There are many reasons why aficionados of fine spirits have The Nth 2022 marked on their calendars as an unmissable date, and just as many reasons why guests will be flocking to Wynn Las Vegas from across the globe. Our exclusive High Roller Experience comes with a stunning array of master classes, super pours, gifts, dinners, networking and tasting some of the world’s most expensive new releases of spirits in the world. However, at every Nth Experience the real big draw is the chance to explore what’s on offer from our incredible array of guest vendors and exhibitors, who represent the absolute cream of the crop of the spirits world. As you’d expect from a 10th anniversary celebration, this year’s event has truly gone the extra mile to include representatives from the world’s most prestigious and exciting distilleries.

We’ve invited exhibitors from Scotland, Japan, the USA, France, and even further afield this year, bringing them together for your pleasure right here in Las Vegas. Guests at The Nth 2022 will be able to pick up tips from the masters, peek behind the curtain of some of the world’s greatest producers, and get up-close-and-personal with some absolute wonders from their archives and cellars. From The Dalmore to Bowmore, Glenlivet, and Glenfiddich, and from The Macallan to Michters and countless others in between, it’s a deep dive into the greatest names and hidden treasures of the industry.

Super Pours and Once-in-a-Lifetime Drams

If the Nth experience is known for one thing, it’s that it gives whisky connoisseurs the chance to truly tick off their spirits bucket list in flawless style. The Nth 2022 has truly upped the ante when it comes to the list of Super Pours on offer this year, with an awe-inspiring list of whiskies and Spirits being brought out for your tasting pleasure and sensory fulfilment.

We’re keeping the list of Super Pours available at The Nth 2022 under wraps for the time being… but recent years have seen incredibly rare and precious whiskies (such as G&M Private Collection Mortlach 1954, Glenfiddich Grand Cru, Dalmore 35YO, Last Drop 1870 Port, and The Glenlivet Atlantic 1965) being poured to rapturous applause. Trust us when we say 2022 features bottles that are right at the top of the wish-lists of the world’s greatest whisky fans, and they’re surely not to be missed.

Master Classes with Industry Icons

The Master Classes at The Nth have always been one of the biggest draws to this industry-defining showcase of fine spirits, and Nth 2022 is shaping up to be the best yet when it comes to panels and seminars hosted by the world’s most celebrated experts. Delegates at last year’s event were able to join Whisky Master Classes including: The Urquhart Family, The Dalmore distillery, William Grants and many more….

Here’s to Ten More Years!

The past ten years of The Nth have been an incredible journey; a chance to rejoice in the love and appreciation of the world’s finest spirits, educate dedicated whisky fans and deepen the joy that masterful distillation can bring.

On the 22nd and 23rd of April 2022, we’re coming together at The Wynn Las Vegas to not only celebrate the zenith of whisky and fine spirit production, but also to celebrate the journey The Nth has been on.

2022 is going to be a year to remember right across the spirits industry – it’s the year of the comeback, the defiant return to form, and of new ambitions and new ideas. The Nth 10 Year Anniversary experience is sure to be the highlight, and we can’t wait to see you there.

For Tickets and Event information please visit www.universalwhiskyexperience.com

https://www.facebook.com/universalwhisky

https://www.instagram.com/universalwhisky/

 

 

Slàinte Mhath to a Successful In-Person 2021 Universal Whisky and Spirits Event

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Slàinte Mhath, the traditional Scottish Gaelic toast to another fabulous, and yes In-Person, Nth Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience which just concluded April 25, 2021 at Wynn Las Vegas, NV.  “It’s a re-start after a tough 2020 without an event, and there will be more Nth experiences to come,” a sentiment from and very much like the tenacious stature of Mahesh Patel the world’s top whisky connoisseur and founder of Universal Whisky Experience.  Mr. Patel has been hosting the main Nth event annually in Las Vegas for over a decade as well as ancillary events around the world.

Similar to the hardy nature of the liquid itself, Universal Whisky Experience showed the hospitality world it is as resilient as the luxury whisky expressions served at the Nth 2021.  Master Blenders and Ambassadors from House of Hardy, Dalmore, House of Dewar’s, Royal Salute, Gordon & MacPhail, Chivas Bros, William Grant & Sons, and Glenturret presented rare whiskies from around the globe.  Representation of these famous brands were both in-person and live-stream.  Although its typical at the Nth for physical appearances from these international brand celebrities, they were there in spirit, no pun intended.  Many shared their passion in the wee hours of the morning from private residences overseas, still in shut down, demonstrating true loyalty to the spirit industry!

It was a different setup this year as State and local government protocols restricted planning the standard full event attendance.  This year celebrated a more intimate luxury Masterclass format educating whisky and spirits enthusiasts on ingredients and crafting of premium rare whiskies, rums, cognac, ports, and the like.  With the help of the world class staff at Wynn Las Vegas, the Nth team designed Masterclasses and luxury dinners with appropriate social distancing to ensure the comfort and safety of attendees and still encouraged meaningful interaction.  Even while social distanced the flow of the conversation and ease of camaraderie were unmistakable.  Due to COVID protocols a room which typically housed exhibit stands with a tasting crowd five times the current attendance, was now set classroom style with one person per 6-foot table.  Nevertheless, the guests had an enjoyable experience in this format discussing their enthusiasm for whisky, sharing tasting thoughts, nosing a glass or two, and asking valuable questions of the whisky experts and representatives of the brands.

Mark Guyton, Starkville, Mississippi commented, “There is simply no comparison to any event I’ve attended around the U.S. or in Scotland. At the Nth, you are interacting with master blenders from the distilleries – these are the very folks who decide which casks of whisky are going to be bottled, and which ones should remain in the warehouses for a few more years.  You get to taste whiskies that you would never be able to taste anywhere else.  Over the decade of attending the Nth I’ve made lasting friendships with other whisky enthusiasts and master distillers from around the world.”

Gavin Linde, San Diego, CA, “The Nth is hands down the best whisky event in the United States, the whisky you get access to and educated on, is nothing but the best. The Master Classes are next level, getting to meet the blenders and talk through each whisky is an experience like no other.”

New attendee Stephen Meyer, “We attended The Nth because it was the only established luxury whisky event being held in the first half of 2021 and were delighted to discover how much participation there was from world renown experts.  The quality of the experience overall was more than worth the time and ticket price.  This event is now a repeat for me every year!”

About Universal Whisky Experience: 

Universal Whisky Experience is a promoter of luxury, super-premium whisky experiences and concierge service to assist in attaining some of the most sought-after whiskies around the globe. For more information please visit:  www.universalwhiskyexperience.com

Universal Whisky Experience 2021 – The High Rollers, An Exclusive Event April 23 and 24, Will Get…

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It’s no surprise that the Universal Whisky Experience is back for 2021, starting with an Exclusive Event for the High Rollers at the Wynn Hotel, Las Vegas. This is the pinnacle of whisky events worldwide for aficionados and whisky fans like myself. Tickets are here for the event Friday April 23 and Saturday April 24, details below and on their website, Facebook and Instagram.

This Just In From Richard Paterson

Watch Richard Paterson, Master Blender and Distiller for The Dalmore, talk about his upcoming appearance at the 2021 Universal Whisky Experience. He and Craig Bridger, Malt Specialist Director, will be sharing “some extra special expressions” of The Dalmore with High Rollers April 23 and 24 at the Wynn Las Vegas. For more details about everything being offered at this exclusive event, once again orchestrated by Mahesh Patel, go to https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/

The High Roller Experience

From High Roller Super Pours, High Roller Lounge Dinner Experience, World-Class Tastings, Master Classes, Meals and more. Learn, savor, and network with like-minded whisky lovers from around the globe. High Roller gets you access to:

Exclusive Super Pours at the High Roller Lounge Dinner.
One on One interaction with brand ambassadors.
Private events with other High Rollers.
A series of Exclusive Master Classes Friday and Saturday.
Whisky Speed Dating.
Luxury Amenities.
High Roller Gift Bag.

Some of the brands that are in attendance for Master classes at the Nth 2021

The Dalmore Experience with Richard Paterson

The Royal ‘Royal Salute’ Experience

Hardy Cognac with Benedicte Hardy

Single Malts of Dewar’s with Stephanie Macleod

William Grants & sons Experience with Ian Miller

Ian Logan’s journey through the ‘House of Chivas’ hidden malts

The Gordon & MacPhail Experience

And More…

Master Classes

Look at our amazing and rare never been done before anywhere Master Classes being held at the Nth 2021 for our elite High Roller Attendees hosted by Royal Salute and Chivas Brothers. Be part of the experience this April!

The Royal Salute Ducal Tasting with His Grace the Duke of Argyll and Peter Prentice

An opportunity to savour a magical collection of Royal Salute whiskies in the company of His Grace the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and Grand Master of the Keepers of the Quaich.

Five deliciously contrasting marques from this iconic range have been personally selected so as to showcase the art of blending at its magnificent best. This includes two unique drams from the Royal Salute Polo Collection with the Snow Polo Edition providing a mouth-watering insight into the delicious world of aged grains. We’ll then be sharing the new Royal Salute 21yo Malts Blend and indulge in a rare opportunity to taste a collector’s dream with the bespoke 30yo cask-strength Royal Salute Flask Edition. With the legendary Royal Salute 38yo Stone of Destiny as a Grand Finale for ‘The Royal Toast’, this is an incredible opportunity to join His Grace and Peter, one of the industry’s most celebrated double acts with many stories to tell across twenty years of flying the Royal Salute flag together.

  1. Royal Salute 21yo Snow Polo Edition (Blended Grain @46.5% abv)
  2. Royal Salute 21yo Beach Polo Edition
  3. Royal Salute 21yo Malts Blend
  4. Royal Salute 30yo Flask Edition (cask strength @50.1% abv)
  5. Royal Salute 38yo Stone of Destiny

The Jewels in the Chivas Brothers Crown with Ian Logan

Normally available only to those that visit the Chivas Brothers Brand Homes on Speyside, this a unique opportunity to try some of the rarest and most exclusive Single Malts in the Chivas Brothers Distillery Reserve Collection. All bottled at natural strength with no colouring or chill-filtration this is as close as you can get to visiting each distillery and sampling directly from a cask..

The Distillery Reserve Collection has now been expanded to include all of the thirteen working distilleries Chivas Brothers while also including the Single Grain produced at the Strathclyde Grain Distillery in Glasgow. Several of the more hard to find expressions are included in the whiskies that will be tasted in the class. Joining us to take you through the whiskies will be Ian Logan, International Brand Ambassador at Chivas Brothers and someone who has seen the range grow from a handful of bottlings to the comprehensive range that is available today.

Caperdonich 18yo, 48.1%, 2nd fill barrel

Aberlour 15yo, 52.4%, 1st fill barrel

Scapa 20yo, 51.0%, 1st fill barrel

Glen Keith 22yo, 56.1%, 2nd fill butt

Longmorn 24yo, 55.5%, 2nd fill butt

The Glenlivet, 25yo, 55,6%, 2nd fill butt

A Note On Safety

Universal Whisky Experience’s top priority is the health and safety of our attendees, vendors, and staff at the Nth 2021 event taking place at the Wynn Hotel Las Vegas. Full Story click here.

Tickets https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/nth-2021/#high-roller-exclusive-sec

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/universalwhisky/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/universalwhisky/

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

What Wine or Spirit Events Have We Missed The Most in 2020?

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A few weeks ago on this blog I wrote about many of the things we’ve been doing during our stay-at-home time with the virus, and many of the things we’ve missed. It seemed that my Facebook feed has been filled with lamentations regarding missed anniversary trips, important graduations, birthdays and other milestones. For me, and most of us in the wine and spirit industry, we rely on tastings/events/classes for continuing education, as well as fodder for our blogs. For the consumer it may be the same, for the non-profit leader the loss of these events have been devastating.

Eve as a wine judge in the first Global Wine Awards in Las Vegas. Photo credit: Ed Bushman.

In today’s article I will explore some of the events we didn’t have, and what we missed by not having them. (At press time these are the events that have either canceled for 2020 altogether, or have postponed further into 2020 with no possible way to know if their event will, indeed, actually take place.)

Wine on the Roof and Cocktails on the Roof are particularly devastating to me as I helped create both events to benefit our local middle schools and high schools in the Hart District. And while the rooftop format does allow for quite a bit of spacing, they still both attract a crowd, so not sure if the postponed dates for this year will happen.

The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience was poised to take place this past March 13. Cancelled the same week it was to occur, as many of the experiences allowed for many guests traveling from one spot to another.

The Paso Robles Cab Collective is an educational experience that is limited to some press and the public. The event focuses on the Cab and red Bordeaux varietals being grown in the area. I’ve learned a lot from past events and have come to respect the winemakers that are working very hard to get attention to their respective varietals in AVAs that have been more known for Rhônes and Zinfandel.

The Universal Whisky Experience was to have its 10th annual event this past April in Las Vegas. There are classes with distillers and brand ambassadors as well as one of the best whisky tasting events I’ve covered. Missed rubbing elbows with all of the whisky aficionados and learning from the best in the field.

Also missing a milestone year was the 5th Annual Masters of Taste that is the only event held on the field of the Pasadena Rose Bowl with top notch taste masters and beverage masters. “100% of event proceeds support Union Station Homeless Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping individuals and families rebuild their lives and end homelessness.”

Art Beyond the Glass, another cocktail event, was canceled but they were able to offer a virtual event. The live event is a special treat as dozens of bartenders dress up in themed costumes, there is live music, art displays and a bartending competition where each team tries to create the best cocktail. “Proceeds from every ABTG event are donated to a local arts-based nonprofit. To date, ABTG has raised more than $210,000 for cultural nonprofits in L.A. and across the country.”

The many Garagiste Festivals, voted best wine festivals in the U.S., were sorely missed. I enjoyed the educational seminars as well as tasting and talking with many small-producing winemakers. “The festivals are produced by Garagiste Events, a non-profit dedicated to furthering the education of future winemakers and those training for employment within the wine industry. Proceeds from the festivals support the Garagiste Festival Scholarship fund of the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo Wine and Viticulture Department.”

Many lesser known wineries and distilleries benefit from entering their bottles in various wine and spirit competitions. As a wine judge myself I know that they not only want an expert opinion on their wine/spirits, they also use their awards in their various marketing materials. At press time I did see that at least one had taken place live with social distancing.

I’m sure there are dozens of events that aren’t on my radar, and have been equally missed, especially events at wineries that are important for bottle sales and gaining wine club members.

I will leave you with this thought: If you can afford it support it. I have hyperlinked many of the non-profits above so you can check out what they do, and maybe you can make a donation or two if you are able to. If you have favorite wineries or distilleries please consider bottles purchases to support them as well.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Vintage Eve Circa May 2018: Virtual Visit to Hennessy Cognac Via Universal Whisky Experience

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This is my last article on the recent Universal Whisky Experience that I attended this past April in Las Vegas. Night one was the grand tasting and day two was the master classes. Last week I shared what I learned about the Oban Distillery. Today we depart whisky and enter the world of Cognac, with none other than a distillery that has been around longer than the U.S.: Hennessy.

We would get a lesson, a tasting, and in a shift to the unexpected: craft a couple of cocktails ourselves.

Cocktails that proved to have been around longer than most.

The Lesson

Cognac began on a ship, according to my classmate and LA Scotch Club member Marshall Naiman, who, when asked shared a little story about how some wine had been damaged by heat but in the end became the start of Cognac.

Hennessy began before the U.S. was a nation, back in Napoleon’s time, founded by Richard Hennessy and master blender John Fillioux. Two families that to this day still work together at Hennessy.

More tidbits of info:

  • Cognac can only be made in the cognac region of France.
  • Uni Blanc, a not-so-great table wine, is the perfect grape to make Cognac from, and comprises 95-98% of Cognac’s vineyards.
  • Hennessy makes about 50% of all of Cognac’s distribution.
  • When a master blender begins work at Hennessy, he is not allowed to speak for ten years during his training.
  • Cognac is aged 40 to 60 years – then comes blending.
  • They have 350 thousand casks.
  • The tasting committee meets every day at 11am.

The Tasting

We had both the X.O. and the VSOP, alone and in cocktails. Tasting alone on the VSOP I got notes of caramel, cream and toasted marshmallow while others in the class also noted apricot, spicy dried fruit, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and honey.

For the X.O we noted a “dark mahogany color due to more oak time that also rounded out the flavor.” The class consensus on the tasting included notes of candied oranges and molasses” while I got dark and dusty flavors and a mouth coating viscosity. An extremely long finish gave off flavors of “dried prunes, plums, chocolate and spice.” We tried the X.O on ice as well, ice that had been flown in from Miami and had zero minerals or chemicals. The ice “softens the flavor, aromas and alcohol” making the Cognac easily approachable to all.

The Cocktails

The first cocktail book published included a recipe from 1850 for the “Hennessy Brandy Cocktail.” We got to make both the French 75 Champagne Cocktail and a Sazerac. While we juggled bar spoons, jiggers, mixing glasses, lemons, bitters, simple syrup, and were given glasses freshly rinsed with Absinthe I thought, heck, I could get used to this. Hennessy is definitely going to be a spirit to explore more of.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits

Vintage Eve Circa April 2018: Virtual Visit to The Oban Distillery Via Universal Whisky Experience

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If you had a chance to read my opening story on the Universal Whisky Experience 2018 – aka the Nth – you knew that besides the four hour grand tasting there were master classes held the following day. Of the several that were offered, in two different sessions, I was able to snake a seat in two.

This account is of my time, well spent indeed, with the very entertaining and well educated Whisky Ambassador Ewan Morgan.

With no less than seven single malts in front of each student, and no labeling to enlighten us to the year or barrel profile, I knew I would be hanging on Morgan’s every word. And lucky for me there was a wee lesson to be learned between the tasting.

In 1760 the small town of Oban (aka “Little Bay”) was already known for “whisky, wool and straw hats” according to the town’s documentation. By 1794 distilling began and by 1887 they were up to 35 thousand gallons per year. Present day Oban distills 660 thousand liters annually. In all that time the town has stayed pretty much the same.

Anxious to taste, Wagner said we would now note how the whisky would change in the bottle – due to age – and once opened in our glass.

Oban’s Revealed

Whisky #1

This whisky was simply titled “Newmake” – which essentially means that it had no maturation in oak or color added. Distilled just about two months prior, on February 13, 2018, I noted an aroma of golden raisins – which prompted a later comment about how wine people use descriptors that whisky people don’t.

LOL While Morgan said that though this whisky had a long way to go it still carried the “distinct fruity character Oban is known for.” When someone else detected a malt aroma Morgan told us to rub our hands together quickly and then take a whiff. That aroma, he said, is the same as the malt we find in some whisky.

Whisky #2

This proved to be a 9 year old, and not tasted before. One of Oban’s “experiments” in releasing earlier than usual. The group thought it was a “fruit bomb, both hot and sweet.” The addition of some water reduced the alcohol burn, which is often the case, but I didn’t note any new aromas.

Whisky #3

A 17 year old whisky that had sweetness and a good balance of flavor and alcohol. About 53% ABV. This was one of Wagner’s favorites.

Whisky #4

An 18 year old with 43% ABV that I got aromas of caramel and popcorn, Wagner noted fig and vanilla. The whisky is only available in the U.S. Lucky us. And less than 9,000 bottles were made.

Whisky #5

Next came the “Little Bay” blend of single malted between nine and 14 years old, 43% ABV. The whisky had matured in both rye barrels and former sherry casks – marrying them both in the same tank for nine months. I got sweet notes or caramel and vanilla bean.

Whisky #6

Prepare yourself now – this 12 year old whisky had been distilled circa 1968. Morgan had obtained two bottles from a collector in London for about $350 each. The fruit and cream notes were perfect on my palate, and very little burn. Wagner also noted a heavier, viscosity and smoky quality. Of course this would be my favorite in the tasting. It’s not often you get to taste both a rare and aged whisky and I really wanted to linger over it.

Whisky #7

Our last whisky was a 21 year old. 58.5% ABV that had aged in American oak and former sherry casks. And though the whisky was cask strength it required no addition of water to open up the aromas and flavor. Wagner noted coconut, fruit, fudge and burnt marshmallow on this one…while I was wondering why he sounded like a wine sommelier. LOL again.

So that’s it. If you want to have some more fun Google Nick Offerman at Oban Distillery on You Tube. He tells the story of how only seven employees run the distillery – in quite a different way than what you might expect.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Vintage Eve Circa Oct 2017: That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, Via Whisky Live

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I met whisky aficionado Monique Huston at the Universal Whisky Experience, aka the Nth show, in Las Vegas earlier this year. I assumed I’d be lucky if our paths ever crossed again as she lives in Illinois, so I kind of scored in not only seeing her, but getting to learn from her too when I realized she was leading a course at the recent Whisky Live LA.

The class was listed in the program with this tantalizing title, “U.S. Launch! That Boutique-Y Whisky Company – Single Casks Done Our Way.”

Be one of the first in the US to taste through the massively awarded range of single cask Single Malt and Single Grain Scotches from experts at That Boutique-y Whisky Company. You’ve seen them written up, scored and bragged about in the UK – now taste them for yourselves! Warning: These cask-strength darlings are not for the faint of heart, come armed with your water dropper! Hosted by Monique Huston, National Director of Spirits Winebow.

Tasting

Aromas and flavors separated by ;

 

Invergordon 42 year old

Orange peel, leather, cream and cinnamon stick on the nose; followed by toasted oak, orange again, with both a nice sweetness and heat. Distilled from corn, neutral barrel finish. This was my favorite of the tasting line-up.

 

Speyside 15 year old

Dark chocolate, vanilla, a bit of peat; very balanced flavors of chocolate, cream and honey. Was finished in a first fill bourbon barrel.

 

Glentauchers 17 year old

Meyer lemon, green grass, vanilla bean; then bark, that same vanilla and some nice heat. They had made a 38 year old that sold out, their production is rare, and this one was probably finished in a second fill bourbon cask.

 

Benrinnes 18 year old

Sweet pear, whipped cream, orange hard candy; smooth and velvety, heat, cream and spice. “Ben” is one of the hills of Pennines. This was from #19 of only 24 barrels. Finished in a third fill sherry cask barrel. My second favorite.

 

Bruichladdich 12 year old

Toffee candy, tobacco, bark; smooth and spicy with a big finish. This was finished at one of only eight distilleries in Islay. Another top fave for me.

 

Islay 16 year old

Wet wood, suede, sweat caramel, yogurt; peat, smoke and s’mores. Liked this one for the peat.

 

Some of What We Learned

Ninety percent of whisky produced in Scotland goes into blends, single malts only get the remaining ten percent. So need a lot of whisky to make all of the single malts we enjoy.

The three peat-heavy distillers, Lagavulin, Laphroaig and Ardbeg, have a convenient walking path connecting them in Islay. (Time to plan a visit!)

That Boutique-Y Whisky Company use a 375ml half bottle format, making them more accessible and affordable. No extra finish is added, the company selects, buys and then bottles. These whiskies were a “preview” and not yet available to the mass market. When they do hit U.S. most likely will be at K and L.

From That Boutique-Y Whisky Company Website

That Boutique-y Whisky Company is an independent bottler which offers stunning whiskies from world-renowned brands and distilleries. Each bottle has a fun and informative graphic-novel-style label containing humorous references, in-jokes and shocking puns. 

http://www.thatboutiqueywhiskycompany.com/

https://www.facebook.com/boutiqueywhisky/

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video, authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Universal Whisky Experience Nth 2020 and The NFL Draft 2020: A Weekend in Las Vegas Unlike Any Other

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LAS VEGAS (PRWEB) – Universal Whisky Experience – Each and every year, these two celebrations of the pinnacles of the sporting world and the luxury spirits industry outdo themselves when it comes to giving fans the best possible experience, and 2020 is no exception. As the plans and lineups for this pair of events start to trickle out to the public, and excitement and anticipation grows by the day, it’s time to begin preparing for the trip of a lifetime to Las Vegas, where not one but two remarkable celebrations descend on a groundbreaking April weekend.

The NFL Draft: an Unmissable Sporting Showcase

There can’t be a single football fan in the whole country who isn’t thrilled by the upcoming NFL Draft 2020, to be held in true Vegas style at a red carpet event outside the Bellagio fountains. With a whole series of free public showcases, celebrations, concerts, and fireworks spectacles planned, it’s guaranteed to be the sporting moment of the year, and one no self-respecting NFL fanatic should miss.

Visitors can expect the full Las Vegas showcase at the NFL Draft 2020, where fans and players will come together to celebrate the 85th annual event on the buzzing iconic strip. Over the years, the NFL Draft has exploded in scale and popularity, becoming one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year. This year’s location has a special significance; The Raiders are preparing to embark on their first season in the city’s glittering Allegiant Stadium, and they are promising a weekend filled to the brim with headlining concerts, chances to get up close and personal with world-beating players, and no shortage of football-themed parties and happenings.

Nth 2020: The Whisky Event of the Year

While The Las Vegas Strip hums with NFL Draft excitement on the weekend of the 23-25 April 2020, over at the glamorous Wynn Hotel, there’s just as much to celebrate for those who love luxury spirits, fine wine and Champagne, and rare whiskies. Nth 2020 is the ultimate encounter with the uppermost echalons of the world of fine spirits, and promises – on its 10th anniversary year – to be bigger, more spectacular, and more unforgettable than any that has come before.

From exclusive super pours, which will showcase the creme de la creme of the world’s most luxurious whisky distilleries and unveil some legendary bottles to ticket holders, to intimate talks and workshops held by superstars of the spirits industry, Nth 2020 is the place to be for those who can’t get enough of the finer things in life. With a multitude of tastings, masterclasses, wine flights, and dinner receptions on offer (and that’s just the beginning…), Nth 2020 has become the most talked about whisky event of the year, and not without good reason. For those looking to take their trip to Las Vegas to unimaginable heights of luxury, indulgence, and excitement, combining a ticket to Nth 2020 with the NFL Draft on the Strip really is about as good as it gets.

Experience High Roller Extravagance with Nth 2020

Seeking the ultimate whisky encounter, and the chance to taste some of the world’s most exclusive and legendary drams? The High Roller packages at Nth 2020, limited to just a handful of tickets and promising to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, will expand your horizons of luxury to a whole new level.

The High Roller Experience at Nth 2020 goes above and beyond any which have come before, and perfectly does justice to the 10 year anniversary of the world’s most exciting whisky expo. Not only will ticket holders have access to the glamorous High Roller Lounge at the beautiful Wynn Hotel Las Vegas, as well as a seat at the High Roller dinner reception, they’ll also be invited to partake in:

● High Roller Super Pours
● A range of fascinating masterclasses
● Exclusive tastings
● 1 on 1 meetings with whisky and spirits ambassadors
● The High Roller raffle draw

…and much, much more besides. Make no mistake, Nth 2020 is set to be the biggest, best, most awe-inspiring immersive luxury spirits experience Las Vegas has ever seen, and it’s one not to be missed.

Sports, Spirits, and Spectacle in Las Vegas 2020

If Las Vegas is known for one thing, it’s that this is a city which never ceases to go above and beyond when it comes to offering visitors unforgettable and unique experiences. The fact that both the NFL Draft 2020 and the Nth 2020 10 year anniversary celebration are happening on the same weekend, makes a trip to this remarkable city an absolute must for sports and whisky fans alike this year. Don’t leave it to chance – book your tickets today!

CELEBRATING THE 10th ANNUAL ULTIMATE WHISKY AND SPIRITS EXPERIENCE -NTH 2020 APRIL 24 – 25, AT WYNN LAS VEGAS

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The Universal Whisky Experience presents to you the Nth 2020, the World’s Premier Luxury Whisky and Spirits Experience. Hosted at The Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas, this master event showcases the best brands of both whiskies and spirits from all over the world. We are the only event in the world where you get to sample the most premium, rare, unique and expensive whiskies and spirits from all the major houses worldwide.

Celebrating a milestone year with its 10th Anniversary celebrations at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas, you will find an experience to deliciously overwhelm your tasting senses. Indulge in exceptional whisky tasting opportunities, mingle with master distillers, blenders and mixologists and learn more about the whisky and spirits world in the most unique event of its kind.
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Universal Whisky Experience and the Nth –founded By Mahesh Patel back in 2011 is excited to bring this event to Wynn Las Vegas as a reflection of the past 10 years and the amazing journey it has been for us all. Showcasing some of the world’s Most Expensive Bottles, Unique Master Classes, Luxurious settings and meeting new great friends. The Nth 2020 Experience will be the start to a new revolution in Whisky and Spirits Tasting around the globe.

Come celebrate with us and walk down memory lane enjoying our Amazing Journey since 2011 –https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/amazing-journey/

The Nth has a reputation for curating unforgettable experiences for whiskey aficionados. “This year we have raised the bar. We have sourced a selection of the world’s most expensive and rare whiskies for tasting. We are also introducing new events, dinners and sessions to the schedule that will truly wow our guests” says Patel.
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This years’ experience will include a few surprises:

  • Start of the Tenth Anniversary Celebration Special Master Classes
  • High Roller Lounge Featuring the most exclusive super pours for tasting
  • Showcasing world’s most expensive bottlings from all over the WORLD
  • Grand Finale with over 200 whiskies and spirits under 1 roof at the Nth Main tasting event

Guests can enjoy a menu of exclusive experiences, including:

  • The rare “Super Pours” representing whiskies and spirits valued at more than$300 a dram
  • A stroll-around tasting featuring the world’s most distinguished and coveted whiskies and spirits
  • Direct access to meet the makers of the best whiskies and spirits in the world with Exclusive New Launches
  • Wines, Champagne and delicious hors d’oeuvres

Two experience levels are available to purchase:

  • High Roller Experience –Friday, April 24 – Saturday April 25, 2020

The premium package includes exclusive access to all show events and tastings including: High Roller Lounge featuring exclusive High Roller Super Pours, Private Events with other High Rollers, One-on-one meetings with brand ambassadors, The Nth main tasting event, Master Classes, Dinner Reception, High Roller Gift bag, cigars and more…

Purchase Tickets here:

https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/high-roller-ticket-2020/

  • Connoisseur Experience – Saturday April 25, 2020

Guests seeking a high-touch experience with a few extra indulgences without going over the top will enjoy the Nth main tasting event, tasting all Whiskies and other Fine spirits, Super pours, hors d’oeuvres, and receive a cut crystal Glencairn tasting glass.

Purchase Tickets here:

https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/connoisseur-experience-ticket-2020/

The Tenth Annual Universal Whisky Experience – From the Founder Mahesh Patel – Why Whisky and Why Vegas

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Welcome to the World’s Premier Luxury Whisky and Spirits! Experience www.universalwhiskyexperience.com

Universal Whisky Experience is about providing the connoisseur, collector, enthusiast and premium spirits consumer, the most exclusive, luxurious and intimate whisky and spirits enjoyment at an elite luxury resort in the world capital of entertainment. Showcasing some of the finest and rarest premium whiskies from a top tier of brands.

Our 10 Year Anniversary, The Nth 2020, will be hosted at the Wynn Las Vegas on April 24-April 25, 2020. Save the date now!

About Mahesh Patel, Why Whisky and Why Vegas for the 10th Anniversary Event 

Mahesh Patel founder of Universal Whisky Experience, Avid Connoisseur and Whisky Collector, made history when buying the world’s first most expensive whisky bottle ‘The Dalmore Trinitas’ valued at $165,000 back in October 2010. Since then he has been made keeper of the Quaich – a society at the heart of the Scottish whisky industry and became the Freeman of City of London and livery man for the worship company of distillers for his contribution in the whisky industry and has been featured in many television interviews talking about his passion for whisky since his teen years, and making his dream come to life with the launch of Universal Whisky Experience seven years ago (now ten years ago!) and its first super tasting event (The Nth – Ultimate Whisky Experience) in Las Vegas.

I decided to do the show because no one did an event that I wanted to attend. I did a show that I would attend and other fellow high end connoisseurs/collectors would want. So the show was built really for me. 

Since the launch of Universal Whisky Experience, Mahesh Patel with his pioneering ability and vision has gone on to create the world’s best Whisky experiences internationally and locally opening and tasting some of the world’s most expensive whiskies granting exclusive access in the world of whisky.

Why Whisky: I was 14 when we went on a family vacation to Scotland and my father liked whisky so we visited Glenfiddich distillery (it was only distillery that was doing tours back in the 80s). I have always been technical minded so I was fascinated by the technical side of whisky production. This was my introduction to whisky; soon after I started to collect miniature bottles from different distilleries, and when I got to university I started tasting whisky. After graduating and then traveling for work and vacations, I started buying whiskies from Duty Free shops. They have some of the best and limited expressions and that’s where my collection got serious.

Why Las Vegas: Because it is the world capital of entertainment. I wanted to host an event, but more than an event – an experience. I wanted connoisseurs to be able to bring their non-whisky drinking partners along and experience the event and to be in a city that offered everything. The Wynn is the most luxurious resort in Vegas and has the best customer experience than any other hotel. All its restaurants are award winning and the service is impeccable. 

The Nth Ultimate Experience is a once in a lifetime event for many. This is the only event in the world where you get to sample the most premium, rare, unique and expensive whiskies from all the major houses around the world. Mahesh has fostered an amazing network with all top whisky makers and brands. Leveraging this amazing network and relationships has led to this one of a kind event, the Nth Universal Whisky Experience.

Connoisseur Experience Tickets: https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/connoisseur-experience-ticket-2020/

High Roller Experience Tickets: https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/high-roller-ticket-2020/

Wynn Hotel Nth Rooms via this link.

https://universalwhiskyexperience.com/

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Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.