Glenrothes

Well Thanksgiving came and went at lightning speed, and here we are barreling toward Christmas.

In between all the shopping, visits from family, planning of meals and visits to mall Santas, I hope all of you out there actually get a moment to be still and enjoy the season.

I can think of no better way than with a fine drink, and one of my favorite beers and my (new) favorite scotch are currently touting promotions to help customers drink in the holidays.

I’d never tried Glenrothes single-malt scotch, but was recently eyeing their limited-edition variety pack of sorts at the BevMo (www.bevmo.com) in Brea. Just days later, one of their reps contacted me regarding the very same promotion. I leapt at the chance to give it a try.

The Triple Double is a three-pack of 100 mls. bottles from Glenrothes, which has been making its scotch since 1879. The sampler, which goes for $29.99, includes a bottle of The Glenrothes Select Reserve, and vintages from 1991 and 1985.

So far I’ve cracked open the 1991, and all I can say is, “wow.” What I find most lovely about this scotch is its nose. Take one sniff of this whisky, and you’ll smell its sweet traits. Vanilla and white chocolate are most pronounced, with hints of berry in the background.

These essences translate well to the tongue, where the fiery drink – I prefer my neat (meaning, Just straight and with nothing added, such as water or ice) – goes down smooth and has a slightly smoky finish.

I’m trying to restrain myself and share the others with friends and family who will soon be visiting for the holidays. If this initial tasting is a glimpse of what’s to come, we are in for some real enjoyment