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A few nights ago I had the pleasure of drinking Scotch with a Scotsman. He’s one of my girlfriend’s co-workers and an all-around great guy. It was an evening of drinks and conversation, and it began and ended with a fantastic glass of The Balvenie Single Barrel. Aged 15 years, this single malt Scotch is one to be carefully and deliberately enjoyed.

The host of the night – the Scotsman, Adam, asked me how I took it. I replied in kind by telling him “with a small splash of water.” This is the way to do it. The reason I’ve always preferred this method is not because I can’t drink whisky neat. Quite the contrary, actually. I prefer to savor my Scotch with all of the subtle nuances the maker has to offer. Not only does the splash of water bring out the flavor and texture of the whisky, it also adds a nice cloudiness to the drink, making it as much of a delight for the eyes as it is for the tongue.

Like a true gentleman, our host poured a separate glass of water for me to add as much as desired – a small dose or two will suffice; one needn’t get carried away with this sort of thing. After my handiwork had been completed, we retreated back to join the womenfolk in the main room. Their house, I might add, is a lovely place in the suburbs of Philadelphia, nicely decorated and very cozy. I digress…

The evening had been filled with talk of technology and sports; two distinctly different and yet familiar topics with all of us. The golden hue of The Balvenie was a bright accompaniment to the conversation and went very well with the pasta dish I’d been served by the hosts. The flavor of The Balvenie is not unlike most Scotches, with toasty, oaky undertones and the sweet warmth of vanilla. It smells just as sweet and spicy, and the oak is there for all to see. The finish has a tartness that I wasn’t able to place, although the maker’s website states it should taste like licorice. I didn’t catch that, but perhaps it’s because of my inexperience with that particular flavor. Whatever it was pleased me all the same.

On a warm October night in Philadelphia (whatever business the weather has being warm in October, aside), this was most certainly the drink to be had. At around sixty to seventy dollars per bottle, I could see myself picking this one up sometime in the future. All in all, a good evening made even better by a great drink.