Eve's Wine 101

Celebrating the 11th Anniversary of the Nth Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience This April!

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THE UNIVERSAL WHISKY EXPERIENCE PRESENTS TO YOU: 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. The website and ticket link are now live!

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 11th 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.

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 2023 Experience will be the start to a new revolution in Whisky and Spirits Tasting around the globe.

Here’s a snapshot: BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF ITS KIND, 200 PLUS WHISKIES
UNDER 1 ROOF, 80 PLUS EXHIBITORS, UNPARALLELED SUPER POURS, SPECIAL BOTTLINGS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE, MEET WHISKY LEGENDS. AMAZING MASTER CLASSES AND MORE!

Taste Award Winning Whiskies and Spirits:

These events are not only the most unique; they are also the perfect level of intimacy, allowing you to truly enjoy the whisky and spirits samplings and influential connections. Indulge in the ultimate tasting event with award-winning whiskies and spirits from around the world. The most expensive drams are available to you at these events, with the ability to sample the best of the best with the highest class of company. This event will have 80 plus exhibitors from all over the world bringing you a fine assortment for your tasting.

Network With Whisky And Spirits Experts:

There is an amazing assortment of Whisky and Spirits personalities under one roof at the Nth event! Exhibitors and Masters alike, these brand leaders will offer outstanding number of delectable spirits for your sampling pleasure. Along with the benefits of unique tastings, you will be attending an educational event like none other. These experts will lavish their knowledge on you, and are available to speak one-on-one to each individual who chooses to converse.

Enjoy the Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Tasting Event 2023:

Fine Whisky, Super Premium Spirits, Wine & Champagne and gourmet Hors d’oeuvres. The Main Tasting Event is the best of its kind, allowing you to mingle with other whisky-lovers while tasting the most refined whisky and spirits choices in a cut crystal Glencairn tasting glass. Also served during this event will be Hors d’oeuvres created by the unparalleled Chef Benson. Bottled water is also available during tasting events.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the 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 Proof Awards, Cellarmasters, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

WhiskeyFest Las Vegas 2022…Done!

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Last month Eddie and I attended the WhiskeyFest Las Vegas event at Resorts Word – for the first time! We had two VIP tickets, which allowed us entry one hour early and samples of rare and aged whiskies. My plan? As soon as I checked in and picked up my swag bag – and program – I scoured the slim booklet to see who was pouring what that first hour, made some quick notes, and then attacked the two conference rooms allocated for the event. Second to that plan was doing as much damage, err, getting as many tastes as I desired in that hour, before taking a break, enjoying the different buffet meals, and then heading into a sit down class with one of the brand ambassadors. After the class I did go back into the two main rooms, but didn’t do as much tasting as I had in that first hour and in the class. First I will share the pours Eddie and I  enjoyed in bold and italics, and then I’ll share which class I took and my notes on that.

The Full List and VIP Pours:

Ardbeg: Wee Beastie, 10 yr., An Oa, 19 yr. Batch No. 4 (VIP hour only), Corryvreckan (VIP hour only)

Awayuki Japanese Strawberry Gin: A little on the sweet side for me but tasty.

Baker’s Bourbon

Balcones Distilling: Lineage Single Malt, Baby Blue Corn Whisky, Texas 1 Single Malt, Pot Still Bourbon, Rye 100, Brimstone Smoked Corn Whisky, Mirador Single Malt (VIP hour only), Prohibida Rum (Finished in ex-Balcones—Peat Casks) (VIP hour only)

Basil Hayden:10 yr., Dark Rye, Subtle Smoke, Toast

Benromach: 10 yr., 15 yr., 21 yr., Heritage Single Cask 1978—(VIP hour only)

Bikoku

Bird Dog Whiskey: Salted Caramel, Apple, Gingerbread

Blackened American: Flagship, Rye the Lightning

Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon: (VIP hour only)

Booker’s

Brenne: Estate Cask Single Malt, 10 yr. Single Malt

Bruichladdich: Classic Laddie, Islay Barley 2013

Calumet Bourbon: Farm Kentucky Straight Bourbon — Small Batch, 10 yr., 15 yr., 16 yr.

Chita

Cincoro Tequila: Blanco, Reposado, Cincoro Añejo, GOLD (VIP hour only), Extra Añejo (VIP hour only)

Crown Royal: Reserve 18 yr. (VIP hour only)

Dewar’s: Caribbean Smooth, Japanese (this was a Mizunara cask) Smooth, French Smooth, 12 yr., 15 yr., 18 yr. (VIP hour only), 25 yr. (VIP hour only), Double Double 21 (VIP hour only), 19 yr. (VIP hour only) I don’t do a lot of blends but I had a class on Dewar’s once and learned about the amazing single malts that go into their whiskey which made me a fan.

El Tequileño: Reposado Gran Reserva, The Sassenach Select Double—Wood Reposado, Añejo Gran Reserva

FEW Spirits: Straight Bourbon, Straight Rye, American Whiskey, Cold Cut, Immortal Rye, Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon—(VIP hour only)

Frey Ranch: Bourbon, Rye, Single Barrel Rye (VIP hour only)

Gentleman Jack

Gladstone Axe

Glen Moray: 25 yr., Classic, Port Cask, Chardonnay Cask, Cabernet Cask, Sherry Cask, 12 yr., 15 yr., 18 yr., Pauillac Single Cask, 21 yr. (VIP hour only)

Glenmorangie: Original 10 yr., X by Glenmorangie, Lasanta 12 yr., Quinta 14 yr., Cadboll Estate 15 yr., 18 yr. (VIP hour only), Signet (VIP hour only) If I only had one single malt brand to enjoy, a pal told me, it would be Glenmorangie. I had to agree.

Gordon & MacPhail: Connoisseurs Choice, This was my favorite table as there were so many incredible aged whiskies to try. —Glenlivet 2004, —Bunnahabhain 1989, —Caol Ila 1997 – Cask Strength, —Tormore 1994 – Cask Strength, Glentauchers 1979 – Private Collection 1—(VIP hour only)

Hakushu: Smoky

Hibiki: Japanese Harmony

Jack Daniel’s: Tennessee Whiskey, Single Barrel Select, Bonded Tennessee Whiskey, Triple Mash Blended Straight—Whiskey (VIP hour only), Sinatra Select (VIP hour only)

Jefferson’s: Ocean Aged at Sea Rye, Reserve Pritchard Hill Cabernet—Cask Finished Bourbon

Johnnie Walker

Kikori

Knappogue Castle: 12 yr., 14 yr., 16 yr.

Knob Creek: 9 yr., Rye, 12 yr.

Legent

Little Book

Maker’s Mark: 46, Cask, BRT-01, BRT-02

Michter’s: US*1—Bourbon, —Rye, —American Whiskey, —Sour Mash, Toasted Barrel Finish Sour Mash (VIP hour only), 10 yr. Rye (VIP hour only)

Middle West Spirits: Straight Wheat, Straight Rye, Straight Bourbon, Bourbon Cream, Sherry Finished Bourbon (VIP hour only), Oloroso Wheat Whiskey (VIP hour only), Ported Pumpernickel Rye (VIP hour only) I’m a Middle West fan, first for their Pumpernickel rye. I believe they are the only ones in the U.S. making a pumpernickel whiskey. And these three, including the ported pumpernickel, blew my socks off.

Oban

Octomore 13.2: VS, VSOP, XO (VIP hour only)

OMAGE: (VIP hour only)

OYO Vodka: Honey Vanilla Bean, Stonefruit, Barrel-Finished Honey Vanilla Bean

Port Charlotte: 10 yr., Islay Barley 2013

Powers Irish Whiskey: Gold Label, Three Swallows, John Power

Rabbit Hole: Dareringer Sherry Cask Bourbon, Bourbon – Limited Release

Saint Cloud Kentucky Straight Bourbon: 100 Proof Single Barrel, X-Series (Abstrākt2) Single Barrel 110 Proof, 13 yr. Single Barrel, Barrel Proof (VIP hour only) Loved this discovery!

Seven Seals: Sherry Wood Finish, Port Wood Finish, Peated Port Wood Finish, Age of Taurus (VIP hour only), Age of Leo (VIP hour only)

Shanky’s Whip

Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash: (VIP hour only)

Shunka Shuto: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

SIA

Skrewball: Neat, Espresso martini (Skrewball, Kahlua—Coffee Liquor, & Cold Brew), Skrewball with Salt Rim, Skrewball with mixers (Cranberry, Apple Cider—Pineapple Juice, & Soda Water)

Smooth Ambler: Contradiction Bourbon, Founders’ Cask Strength—Series Rye

St. George Spirits: Lot 22 Single Malt, Baller Single Malt, Breaking & Entering American, Terroir Gin, Botanivore Gin, Spiced Pear Liqueur, NOLA Coffee Liqueur, Green Chile Vodka, Absinthe, 40th Anniversary Single Malt—(VIP hour only)

Talisker: 10yr

Teitessa Single Grain Japanese Whisky: 15 yr., 20 yr. (VIP hour only), 25 yr. (VIP hour only) This was my second favorite table, and a new Japanese whisky discovery for many if not all of us at the event. The 15 and 25 year old were both made the same way, and delicious. All three were very smooth and no need to add water.

Templeton: 4 yr., 6 yr., Barrel Strength, Stout Cask Finish, 10 yr. (VIP hour only), Single Barrel (VIP hour only)

Toki (as a Highball)

Vim & Petal Dry Gin

WhistlePig: PiggyBack 100% Rye, PiggyBack 100 Proof Bourbon, FarmStock Rye,
Small Batch Rye, Aged 10 yr. (VIP hour only) Fabulous finish on this one.

Widow Jane:10 yr. Bourbon, Lucky 13 Bourbon, Oak & Apple Wood Rye, Decadence (VIP hour only)

Yamazaki: Puncheon Cask, Sherry Cask, Mizunara Cask

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Suntory Seminar

I don’t really know why I’m so enamored with Japanese whisky exactly, it may have been my exposure to Sake when I did my certification class, the books I was sent for review on Japanese drinks and Japanese whisky, the uniqueness of the Japanese Mizunara cask, the differences in how Japanese whisky tastes compared to Scotch whisky…or just fond memories of my high school boyfriend Jim Matsuo that still hasn’t come to a single reunion. LOL.

The Art of Blending: A Deconstruction of Hibiki Japanese Harmony

Jonathan Armstrong | BIO
West Coast Brand Ambassador | House of Suntory

Seminar description: Please join the House of Suntory for an extraordinary opportunity to discover and explore the depth of Japanese whisky. Tasting a selection of whiskies from Chita, Hakushu and Yamazaki distilleries, we will discuss the history, craftsmanship and terroir of the House of Suntory. Through the Art of Blending we will examine the influence of American oak, Spanish Sherry casks and Japanese Mizunara Oak barrels and share the subtle, refined and complex nature of Hibiki Japanese Harmony.

Back to me: The five we tried that led up to the final blend included 1. Chita clean (made from corn). 2. Yamazaki Puncheon cask was a bit harsh to me. 3. Yamazaki sherry cask (my personal “wow that’s good” favorite) 4. Yamazaki Mizunara oak (My second favorite but a bit tight. Hibiki is also the first known brand to make this.) 5. Hakushu heavily peated (not too peated in my opinion). And the final blend they all went into: 6. Hibiki Harmony (We have a bottle at home).

I had a similar class two years ago, and covered it here in this blog, but here are a couple of things that sounded new to me:

Yamazaki Distillery will be celebrating their centennial this year as they opened in 1923. I bet that will garner a nice celebration. Also single malt whisky lost in sales to a less alcoholic drink in Japan: the highball that is now the most popular drink in Japan.

Instagram for some of the distilleries:

@Glenmorangie @GlenmoDan @StGeorgeSpirits @Glen_Moray _Whisky @GordonAndMacPhail @Dewars @BalconesDistilling @WhistlePigWhiskey @MiddleWestSpirits @CrownRoyal @SaintCloudBourbon @TeitessaJapaneseWhiskey @SuntoryWhiskey @WhiskyAdvocate

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in the 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 Proof Awards, LA Wine Competition, Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Swig And Savor AN UNFORGETTABLE WHISK(E)Y EXPERIENCE

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Portland, OR – The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (ORLA) is pleased to announce that it will host the inaugural Swig & Savor event on Friday, August 12, 2022, at The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Portland, Oregon. Attendees will join distillers and master blenders to experience a multitude of special pours from around the world, all curated for this one, exclusive night.

The event gives attendees the opportunity to compare different types of whisk(e)ys, revisit some favorites, and uncover new tastes. This will be the first public whiskey tasting event in the Pacific Northwest to feature so many luxury pours and catered specifically to enthusiasts.

The confirmed pour list is below, but there will be several additions over the coming weeks.​

Ardbeg

• Wee Beastie

• 10 year

• An Oa

• Uigeadail (VIP hour only)

Bull Run

• 14 year American Whiskey

• 9 year Madeira Finished Oregon Single Malt

• 9 year All Oregon Single Malt 

• 6 year Nocino Finished Bourbon

• 6 year Chinato Finished Bourbon

• 13 year Cognac Finished Single Barrel Bourbon (VIP hour only)

Glenlivet

• Caribbean Reserve

• Illicit Still

• 18 year

• 21 year (VIP hour only)

• 25 year (VIP hour only)

Glenmorangie

• X by Glenmorangie

• Original 10 year

• Lasanta 12 year

• 18 year (VIP hour only)

Grain & Barrel 

• Chicken Cock Bourbon Whiskey

• Chicken Cock Rye Whiskey

• Elvis Whiskey

• Elvis Rye

• Virgil Kane Ginger

• Chicken Cock Cotton Club (VIP hour only)

Jefferson’s

• Reserve

• Ocean Aged at Sea

• Ocean Aged at Sea Rye

• Twin Oak (VIP hour only)

Kentucky Owl

• The Wiseman Rye

• The Wiseman Bourbon

• Confiscated Bourbon

• St. Patrick’s Limited Edition Bourbon (VIP hour only)

Michter’s

• Rye

• Bourbon

• Sour Mash

• Unblended American

• Barrel Strength Rye (VIP hour only)

• 10 year Rye (VIP hour only)

Oregon Spirit Distillers

• Bottled in Bond Single Barrel Straight American Bourbon Whiskey

• Straight American Bourbon Whiskey

• Straight American Rye Whiskey

• Straight American Wheat Whiskey

• Eaves Blind Straight American Bourbon, Blended by Marianne Eaves (VIP hour only)

Proof and Wood

• Deadwood Straight Bourbon

• Deadwood Rye Whiskey

• Roulette Rye

• Tumblin’ Dice

• The Representative

• The Ambassador

• The Senator Rye (VIP hour only)

• Tumblin’ Dice Private Barrel (VIP hour only)

• The Senator Rye Private Barrel (VIP hour only)

Rabbit Hole

• Cavehill Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 4-Grain

• Heigold Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey High Rye

• Boxergrail Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

• Dareringer Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in PX Sherry Casks (VIP hour only)

• Founders Reserve (VIP hour only)

Redbreast

• PX

• 12 year

• 15 year

• 21 year (VIP hour only)

• 27 year (VIP hour only)

Silkie

• Legendary

• Legendary Dark

• Midnight Silkie

Spirit of Hven

• Mercurious Corn Whisky

• Swedish Rye Whisky (VIP hour only)

• Swedish Tycho’s Star Whisky (VIP hour only)

Uncle Nearest

• 1884 Small Batch Whiskey
• 1856 Premium Whiskey    

Westward

• Westward American Single Malt

• Westward American Single Malt Stout Cask

• Westward American Single Malt Pinot Noir Cask

• Westward American Single Malt Cask Strength

• Westward American Single Malt Elements: High Desert to Klamath Basin (VIP hour only) 

Wilderness Trail

• High-Rye Bourbon

• Wheated Bourbon

• Straight Rye Whiskey 

• Private Barrel (VIP hour only)

Woodinville

• Bourbon

• Straight Rye  

• Port Finished (VIP hour only

Swig & Savor seeks to give whisk(e)y enthusiasts access to master distillers, blenders and other experts while enjoying the fruits of their labors. Everyone is encouraged to engage and ask questions about each brand’s heritage, process, and what makes each pour unique. Whether it’s to brush up on familiar topics or to learn something new, attendees are welcome to join a handful of seminars hosted by experts from the famed Multnomah Whisk(e)y Library.

General Admission tickets are $249 and cover three hours of tasting access, while VIP Admission is $349 and covers four hours, exclusive pours, and a raffle of hard-to-get bottles. Attendees are encouraged to make it a weekend and enjoy what Portland has to offer! The City of Portland is filled with fantastic overnight accommodations, restaurants, and fun activities. Visit swigandsavor.com for ticket purchasing, accommodations, important links, and what to expect on August 12.

How was the 2022 Universal Whisky Experience?

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Color me and 13 other pals happy as we were just one whisky-loving group that attended the 2022 Universal Whisky Experience, aka the Nth, a couple of weeks ago. It’s taken me that long to absorb everything we got to taste!

The event, now celebrating its tenth year, is the pinnacle of whisky tasting – and learning – events. (Google the name Universal Whisky if you don’t believe me!) And after a couple of Covid years it was great to see several of the same enthusiasts we hadn’t seen in so long! Some had gone all out in getting the multi-event ticket, the “High Roller”, while many of us were happy with the “Connoisseur” experience that gave us three hours of heaven with more opportunities to taste than any one of us could fully take advantage of – there were so many tables with rare and unique bottles to share! Not to mention Master Distillers, blenders and knowledgeable brand ambassadors.

Some of my favorites; 26 Year Old Grande Couronne Glenfiddich, Ichiro’s Malt The Single Cask, Michter’s 20 Year Old Bourbon, Glenmorangie 18 Year Old, Komagatake Single Malt Japanese Whisky and their IPA Cask Finish, Frapin XO and Extra Cognacs, Kavalan Sherry Cask (single cask) and their Sherry Oak, Stellum Rye Cask Strength, Bhakti 27-07 (Brandy and Armagnac), Jefferson’s Ocean Rye, Highland Park 15 Year Old Viking Heart and their 18 Year Old, 21 Year Old Balvenie, and Royal Salute 21 Year Old…

Some comments from friends on social media included:

Rolex Whisky, aka Gavin Linde, “…what a weekend of #whisky and friendships. We drank a lot lot of #rarewhisky it was mind blowing the selection this year for the 10 Nth…Another fun time in Vegas for Universal Whisky Experience and the pours this year were nuts. Good time, and mind blowing whiskies and of course a lot of good food.”

SipWithMeLV, aka Ashley Norris, “The Nth was truly a spectacular experience and should be included on every whiskey lovers bucket list. The selection was unmatched, and the incredible people representing their brand and telling their story was inspiring.”

scotchy_scotch_scotch, aka Erik Kluver, “(At) Universal Whisky – quality friends, conversations, and spirits with an opportunity to wear a suit and tie, yes, say no more. So many delicious spirits, too little time to taste them all sufficiently. I, however, put forth a noble effort, sampling single malts, cognacs, bourbons…ryes and tequilas. Benriach 25yr, a true banger, set things off right, after which I encountered delightful whiskey after whiskey, then cognac, and back to whiskey mostly. Limiting myself to products I had never experienced before, the standouts for me were Benriach 25yr, Westward Sourdough, Frapin, and Gordon and MacPhail’s Scapa.

Lance Martin, “Great evening of whiskey and friends: discovering a Swiss single malt, a sublime 19 year old Ardberg, an 18 year Highland Park that was perfection in a glass, and a once in a lifetime chance to discuss The Dalmore with Richard Patterson himself. What a night!”

Drammers Club, “…last night was an embarrassment of riches here in Vegas at the Nth Universal Whisky Experience. So many friends In town, there was barely any time to drink (we made due somehow, ha).” (Charlie Prince, the president of this global club, had a LOT more to say on the event. Scroll to the bottom of his recent newsletter to read all about it and see more photos.)

Moe Hafizi, “Great variety of whiskeys, bourbon and tequila. Enjoyed (everything) very much.

Linda Hafizi, “Whisky tasting at the Wynn…lots of tasting going on, a great night, thank you Eve and Eddie Bushman.

David Tinoco, “Fun weekend in Vegas for the Nth Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience. Good friends, good pours, good food!”

Founder Mahesh Patel, “Thanking everyone for supporting us to reach our 10 year anniversary and making the Nth a spectacular Luxury Whisky And Spirits Experience in the World.”

Vendors included Camus, Dewar’s, Garrison Brothers, Tomatin, Gordon and MacPhail, Benromach, Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, Heaven Hill, Jack Daniel’s, Whistle Pig, The BenRiach, Westward Whiskey, Cincoro Tequila, Bulleitt, Fable Whisky, Loch Lomond, Hine, Martell, Green Spot, Glengoyne, Oban, Mortlach, Laphroaig, Royal Brackla, The Macallan, Aberfeldy, Yellow Spot, Chivas, Highland Park, Duncan Taylor, Aberlour, Yamazaki, Booker’s, Bowmore, Hennessy, The Glenlivet, Glen Scotia, Glenfiddich, Glenfarclas, Hibiki, Old Pulteney, Kavalan, Knob Creek, Paul John, Nikka, Cognac Frapin, Westland, Littlemill, Maker’s Mark, Lagavulin, Michters, Johnnie Walker, Ancnoc, The Balvenie, Glenmorangie, Santa Teresa, Tequila Patron, Jim Beam, Ardbeg, The Glenrothes, The Dalmore, Balblair, Hardy, Glenturret, Royal Salute, Midleton Distillery, Bhakta Spirits and Frey Ranch.

Follow The Universal Whisky Experience so you don’t miss the 2023 event!

Universal Whisky Experience
https://www.instagram.com/universalwhisky/
https://www.facebook.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.

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival: SET TO REIGNITE SPEYSIDE’S SPIRIT IN 2022

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Over five hundred events within the Festival, which runs from 27 April to 2 May, have been announced. These will allow ticket holders exclusive access to world famous distilleries, the chance to meet the craftspeople behind the liquid and immerse themselves in the heart of malt whisky country.

The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival team gathered 3 March with key event partners to reveal some of the events on offer.

Programme highlights include History of the Highball with whisky legend Sarah Burgess, an evening not to be missed with Glen Moray’s Iain Allan at Elgin Cathedral and one of a kind experiences at a number of distilleries not usually open to the public including Dufftown, Tamdhu and Tamnavulin distillery tours and tastings.

George McNeil, chairman of The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, said:

“We have an impressive range of events on offer, with some stellar new additions to the 2022 programme including an eclectic amalgamation of Star Wars and whisky tasting in memory of Brett Ferencz known to many as the Scotch Trooper, with 25% of ticket sales going towards cancer research. “The last few years have been difficult for everyone and as we begin to return to normality I know that the many partners and people who help to bring the Festival to life are gearing up to welcome people from all over the globe to Speyside. “I hope to see people from far and wide joining us to celebrate the world’s largest producing whisky region, from whisky novices, budding master blenders and everyone in between. I look forward to welcoming people once again to an area I am lucky enough to call home.”

Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said:

“We are delighted to support the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival through our International Events Funding Programme. Its 2022 line-up of tastings, ceilidhs, distillery tours and more looks set to deliver another fantastic celebration of Scotland’s national drink. Uniquely Scottish events such as the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival can only serve to further strengthen the country’s reputation as a world-leading events destination.”

Click the link to watch a quick summary of what to expect during this year’s Festival! https://youtu.be/6QZ38Zl6-9Q

Some of the 2022 Programme Highlights:

Star Wars and Whisky NEW TO 2022

A brand new event from the Dowans for 2022. 25% of all ticket sales will go to Cancer Research in memory of the ultimate Star Wars and whisky fan Brett Ferencz whose Scotch Trooper alter ego always made people smile! Experience whisky tasting with a difference.

Glen Moray: Chapter and Verse NEW TO 2022

Join Glen Moray’s Iain Allan who will host an atmospheric evening in Elgin Cathedral’s Chapter House with members of Historic Scotland who will regale with tales while some of Glen Moray’s finest drams are available to taste.

Ballindalloch Whisky and Chocolate Immersive Sensory Experience NEW to 2022

This is an interactive tasting experiment to learn about the wonders of pairing different age statement whiskies with some of the highest quality craft chocolate in the world. From a new make to a whisky that is nearly 30-years-old, matured in a range of traditional casks, you will have the unique opportunity to do this tasting alongside the McPherson-Grant family and the Ballindalloch whisky creation team.

Celebrating 25 Years of A’bunadh NEW to 202

Join Master Distiller Graeme Cruickshank in conversation with archivist Chris Brousseau, Brand Ambassador Caris Simpson and the team in celebrating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the iconic Aberlour liquid. The evening includes a tasting combined with a dining experience and each guest will take away an engraved bottle of the latest A’Bunadh batch.

Dufftown Distillery

This collection of events promises a truly unique experience, with the chance to visit four Speyside distilleries which are normally not open to the public; Roseisle, Linkwood, Dufftown and Mortlach Distillery. Driving? No problem, drams can be taken away to enjoy at leisure.

Scottish Aperitivo Hour (weather permitting)

John Dewar & Sons are back with their famed and free Scottish Aperitivo Hour event. Enjoy sampling a couple of special single malts with friends whilst you take in the surroundings.

Whisky Auction

The only whisky auction during the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, and an event not to be missed.

Tamdhu Distillery Tour and Tasting

Take part in a very exclusive guided tour of Tamdhu Distillery, which is normally closed to the public. Tour includes a tasting of three drams: 12 Year Old, 15 Year Old and a brand-new surprise final dram.

Tamnavulin Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience

Usually closed to the public, join the distillery brewer for a guided tour, followed by a guided tasting of four Tamnavulin expressions and their hand selected perfect pairing, complete with a signature Speyside cocktail.

History of the HighBall with Sarah Burgess NEW TO 2022

Come along to the oldest Whisky Hotel in Speyside, The Craigellachie Hotel and join Sarah Burgess, Creative Director of The Craigellachie Collection along with a special guest, for a special journey and demonstration into the history of the HighBall. Included in ticket price, four Highball Cocktails.

For further information please visit:

Website: www.spiritofspeyside.com

Facebook: WhiskyFestival

Instagram: spirit_speyside

Twitter: spirit_speyside

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

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