Splurge-Worthy Whiskies with James Forbes

November 17, 2018 at 5:30 pm: Our second Whisky Tasting, following April’s sold-out Tartan Day celebration, concentrates on some of the best of the best. Nearly one-quarter of all Scotch whisky is sold in November and December, much of it as gifts as well as for entertaining. This “splurge-worthy whiskies” tasting will allow participants to sample exceptional whiskies, including some rare and exclusive drams, further develop their palates, and learn from whisky expert James Forbes why these coveted spirits are worth the price (or not). This whisky tasting provides a great way to get ready for holiday gift giving and entertaining, and is expected to be another sold-out event.

One of the world’s most sought-after whiskies, a 60-year-old The Macallan Valerio Adami 1926, was auctioned for a record $1.1 million on October 3, 2018. With prices rising for luxury whiskies and a dizzying array of choices available, this lively curated tasting, including video, will demonstrate the factors to look for when splurging on whisky purchases, including how to evaluate them based on age, finishing, smoke and other factors.  Our exploration of the world of extraordinary whisky will once again be led by expert James Forbes, creator of the Dramophone Whisky app (www.bearshead.com), and Chieftain of Scotland’s popular Lonach Highland Gathering & Games (www.lonach.org).

Held in the intimate setting of our History Gallery, capacity is extremely limited. The evening includes the curated tasting of exceptional whiskies, plus admission to the Main & Spotlight Galleries “Walt Disney’s Trains” exhibit – a $20 value. (Food other than crackers will not be served, so you should make your dinner plans for after the event). Guests will arrive at 5:30 pm, with a half-hour dedicated to touring “Walt Disney’s Trains,” followed by the tasting from 6 to 7:30 pm. Early bird tickets are $50 Museum members; $65 non-members; $75 at the door.

Sponsors for the event include:

Duncan Taylor & Company, owner of one of the largest privately-held collections of rare Scotch whisky casks. The company has been “laying down” casks from premium Scottish distilleries for decades and has, in recent years, made its branded products available to whisky connoisseurs throughout the world, including the critically acclaimed Black Bull Blended Scotch whisky (www.duncantaylor.com); and 

Bounty Hunter Rare Wine & Spirits in downtown Napa, dedicated and experienced merchants offering exceptional wines, spirits, and the best of Wine Country with a fun, authentic approach and uncompromising standards. In business since 1994, their motto is: “If it’s not great, we don’t sell it.” A perfect place to splurge on whiskies for your own enjoyment or as gifts, contact their “Wine Scout” Lee Reinsimar at 707.260.0940 or visit them at www.bountyhunterwine.com