Globe-Trotting Whiskies: fermented grain mashes from everywhere but Scotland
Globe-Trotting Whiskies: fermented grain mashes from everywhere but Scotland
Everyone knows that Scotland produces some of the best whisky on the planet, but the British isle isn’t the only country making excellent grain-based spirits. Distilleries from unexpected locales—including India, Taiwan and South Africa—are barrel-aging brown liquors infused with flavours and aromas that are distinct to those regions. Here, five world whiskies worth sampling.
Amrut put India on the map as a bona fide producer. The Fusion single malt is spicy and tropical with bold peat flavours typically found in a scotch. $78.25. LCBO 220756
South Africa’s Three Ships five-year is a classic: smoky and peaty with caramel smoothness. It stands up to any entry-level scotch, but at a lower price point. $34.95. LCBO 329060
Sweden’s Mackmyra single malt is elegant and surprisingly sweet, with floral aromas, berry favours and hints of vanilla. $66.95. LCBO 269639
For a rugged whiskey with herbal aromas similar to quality tequila, there’s P&M three-year from Corsica. It’s young, so it has lots of alcohol heat, but it’s sweet, too. $59.95. LCBO 369827
Japanese whiskey typically stays true to the Scottish style. The Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 12-year is ultra smooth, artfully balancing cherry fruit, citrus peel and smoke. $74.40. LCBO 332957
The Emmet Ray (924 College St., 416-792-4497) stocks all of these exotic bottles, and co-owner Andrew Kaiser provides crash-course samplings for neophytes.
 stocks all of these exotic bottles, and co-owner Andrew Kaiser provides crash-course samplings for neophytes.){kind=link}
can we get some more wine info. And like actual wine info. Or more alcohol reporting, so weak for Toronto Life