LCBO Food & Drink Early Summer 2017

GIFTS  WINNING SPIRITS

WORLD WHISKIES Perhaps because there are so many whisky (and whiskey) aficionados in the world, award-winners in this category always gather more than their fair share of attention. A champion makes an ideal gift for a connoisseur, coming with built-in debate over com- parative merits.

KNOB CREEK BOURBON LCBO 326009, $47.95

THE BALVENIE 12 YEARS OLD DOUBLEWOOD SCOTCH WHISKY LCBO 387316, $94.95

JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE LABEL LCBO 308155, $300.70 Blended Scotch need never play second fiddle to single malt when Johnnie Walker Blue Label is around. Infinitely smooth yet intensely aromatic, it yields an array of layered flavours that takes you from smoke to roses, marmalade to sandalwood. Fabulous stuff!

SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION DOUBLE GOLD, BEST OVERALL BOURBON

INTERNATIONAL WINE & SPIRITS COMPETITION

SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION DOUBLE GOLD

SCOTCH WHISKY TROPHY

Nine years in the barrel gives this small-batch bourbon an extra touch of oaky spice and sweetness and smooths away any rough edges, even at 50% ABV (alcohol by volume). Rye adds pepper to the caramel and walnut aromas. Serve it on the rocks.

2015

2016

2016

Ageing first in used bourbon casks, finished in sherry casks, this Spey- side single malt presents a most elegant balance of slightly smoky oak spice and wine-soaked dried fruits. A touch of honeyed sweet- ness is the final, subtle finesse.

112  FOOD & DRI NK EARLY SUMMER 2017