Me and spirits ...
I grew up in Scotland where you're handed a whisky at an early age, and measured on your ability to consume it without spluttering. Adding water or ice may seem natural, to dilute the +40% liquor, and soften the peat, but not if you want to preserve your manhood and avoid ridicule: tough crowd, tough country. Don't even think of adding coke, you're sent to England for that. Th
e result of this first horrible experience put me off spirits for years, and might have been forever, apart from a chance encounter 3 years ago. This first off-putting experience with the 'water of life' is not unusual, and neither is the one of re-acquaintance. For the past few years I have led The Glenlivet's digital development, and as part of this seen some great research into the typical reasons people hate whisky and spirits in general - like me, given it too young, or drank too much at a uni party. I know how weird, scary, unpalatable this drink can be, and I now know how wonderful, mysterious, delightful and life affirming it can be ... with just a little knowledge. So, how about together we discover a little about spirits from the experts, in a lovely venue in London surrounded by fellow amateurs, with none of the pressure or stuffiness?
