It’s hard to believe that it’s been nearly three months since we last checked out some delicious Scotch whisky. I almost feel like I’ve been neglecting my duties. Fear not, fine reader, for we are about to take a trip to the wonderful world of Scotch. Grab your itinerary and your North Face jacket because this trip is taking us to Manayunk, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to a little place called Sapphire.
It’s a cozy little pub, with chic decor and a warm atmosphere amidst dim lighting – perfect for meeting a random stranger whom you might eventually find out is not so attractive, after all. Fortunately for me, that game is long in my past. The liquor selection in this place is pretty nice; they stock Hendrick’s gin, which makes the best gin & tonic you will ever have. This particular night, however, I was looking for something darker. You see, I’ve been on this kick of beer and light spirits and I felt I needed to get back to my roots. Luckily, this place allowed me to do just that.
At first I didn’t even see the bottle of The Glenlivet 18 Year staring me right in the face. I could see were Johnnie Walker Red, Black, Gold and Blue. I felt defeated… but off to the right – just a shelf away, was my adventure for the evening. I was elated. It wasn’t The Glenlivet 12 Year, but the 18. This was going to be something special. I ordered it neat and added a small splash of municipal tap water – you know, for flavor.
The 18 Year is slightly darker than the 12 Year, although now that I think about it I could very well have been tricked by Sapphire’s sexy mood-lighting. The aging has done this one well, though, as the subtle aromas of fruit have been enhanced by the brilliance of oaky sweetness. On the first sip, you get the oak in all of its glory, while the finish lingers with the warmth and hint of ash. Each subsequent sip becomes smoother and smoother until it’s just liquid silk dancing on your tongue, bringing you peace and joy in the harsh winter months. This easily became one of my favorites.
At about sixty-five dollars per bottle, it’s a bit of a pop, but hey, it’s really tasty and you deserve to treat yourself every now and then. Right?
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