It’s not raining. It’s not storming. Actually, it’s simply just cloudy and windy in Manhattan this morning. However, as I am stuck inside a building and physically and mentally drained from a long month of hardwork, I consider today “dreary.”
Thus, on such a dreary day, I ache for something that could bring life back to my limp and exhausted mind. What could light a flame in the depth of my soul and allow it to grow—to become a fire that drives me to live life to the fullest again?
It is none other than the Aberlour A’bunadh (one of my absolute favorites). It is ~60% abv and you can taste it. Unlike the harshness of other strong cask-strength whiskys, this one—when consumed neat—has a bite that is like a lighter lighting up the flame in your belly. And, as that liquid travels slowly down your throat and your body reacts to its richness and its smoothness, the flame expands and grows. Suddenly, you’ll feel a surge of power, of energy, nay, of life, travel from the depths of your soul and explode through your mouth as an exhale of joy and excitement.
This whisky—no, it’s not just a drink, it’s an experience—this experience is unlike anything I’ve ever had. The bite from the strength of the alcohol and the spices in the drink mixed with the smooth and rich scent and taste of the oak makes me forget about the world around me. Instead, I just feel the life in me grow and travel to all parts of my body.
The best part is that with this drink—when consumed with a bit of water—immediately morphs my experience. Instead of a growing flame, I feel a soft slow burn—a warmth like that of a baby blanket wrapping its comfort and safety around me. Suddenly, I feel secure, confident and relaxed.
Though the initial experience is different between having it neat or with a bit of water, the final result is the same. Before I know it, I am ready to live life to the fullest, in whatever form it may be. I could take the rest of the day off and party like a rockstar, or bunker down and get my project finished, or simply smile and know that life is amazing.
Has any of your whiskys done that to you?
Signing out now. In the meantime, keep it whisk(e)y!
Rose
John Malatino
I could not agree more. This really does get you warmed in a way that almost no other whisky does. To me the 60% really comes with no real burn other than that live affirming warmth you so perfectly described. Do you have any suggestions for other cask-strength whiskies with the same properties?