About being a brand whore

I really like whiskey, and I really like Macallan. No, I am not just saying that because I was invited by Matchstick to a Macallan tasting at One at the Hazelton Hotel last night, I REALLY enjoy Macallan. In fact 2 of the three bottles I currently have at home are Macallan.

I am now, and have always been a huge brand whore, loyal to very few brands that I enjoy and identify with. I am a marketers wet dream, and being from a marketing background myself I do enjoy programs that are effective. I didn't need to be sold on the product, but gaining knowledge makes me a better brand ambassador, which is what both Macallan and Matchstick were looking for. I can thank my paternal grandfather for my love of brands as in his pantry growing up there were always cans of Lipton noodle soup, Fudgee-O's, Green Giant canned peas (to go in the soup), and many others. We tend to find security in memories, and brands are no exception. I don't use all of the same brands as my family used growing up but the majority are things I grew up around.

You want to invite me to a scotch tasting? Macallan? Really? Don't mind if I do! I do enjoy being with good friends and enjoying some nice whiskey, what else could a guy ask for?

Our expert for the evening, Marc, was delightful, informative, and even a little bit adorable. We kind of wanted to bring him home, but then who wouldn't as he has access to some nice "liquid" as he puts it. We learned about colour, body, nose, taste, and finish. The 6 pillars of the Macallan brand, what makes them stand apart from the crowd, and why they are one of the world's most awarded and admired Single Malts. Another important lesson, the difference and characteristics of Fine Oak and Sherry Oak cask matured spirits and how to spot them based on colour.

Left is the 15yr I drink at home (Fine Oak) and the Cask Strength 10yr (Sherry Oak)

On the left the Macallan 12yr (Sherry Oak), and the left the Macallan 10yr (Fine Oak)

I am not a person who claims to have a fine tuned palate or for that matter senses, but Marc showed us ways to identify a nose that we previously may not have noticed. It was life changing. Toffee? Yes it really smells like toffee. Ooh caramel, I smell it. Exciting stuff.

In total we tasted 5 Macallan liquids throughout the evening.

10yr Fine Oak

12yr Sherry Oak

15yr Fine Oak

18yr Sherry Oak

Each is unique in its own right, and all are lovely examples of the diversity of the Macallan brand. The only one missing a profiling photo was the 21yr. If I had to pick a favourite it would be the 18yr, too bad it is almost $300 a bottle. As mom would say, "you can thank me for your expensive taste" - ya, thanks mom! Now I am craving something, I clearly cannot afford. Oh, and thanks to Marc and Macallan for that as well.

Happy drinking.

Peace, Love, and Ice Cream (covered with a whiskey sauce!)

PS CLICK HERE to fill out a short survey, and Matchstick will make a $2 donation to The Redwood, a family support shelter that offers assistance to those less fortunate.