The Magic of the Kilt: Part II - the event!

[CameronCat]

Frequent readers <wink> will remember how my mention of wearing a kilt may have moved us to head-of-the-line for a whisky tasting. The full story is here if you're interested.

The event happened Friday last and was billed as a "Burns Memorial" tasting. We attended, and I offer a mixed review. First, my two e-mails to the organizer brought no answers as to correct attire for either me or Mrs Cat. Since it was our first time attending -- and it seemed to be a high-zoot event for our small town -- I opted up: dark green tie (doesn't show well in the pic), argyle jacket w/ French cuffed shirt, grey socks and the Cameron Erracht kilt, black shoes. (I'm not usually that somber looking either...)



So we get to the meeting room on an upper floor in the theater to find that sweaters and bluejeans were the uniform of the evening. Not only was I the only kilt present, I was also the only tie and probably the only one with polished shoes. There were a few sport jackets, though. Talk about being overdressed...
However, the kilt played to good reviews in the room and garnered several intelligent questions about its maker (USAK), my heritage, and Scotland in general. The other unfortunate bit was cramming 65 people into a room that should hold probably 40 comfortably. Moving about the room was quite difficult and I discovered that the thickness of a sporran can be the difference in safe passage.

On the upside, the program for the evening was hosted by Riannon Walsh who presented five whiskies, all from Islay. "You would not think," she said "that such a small island could produce such varied products, but do not be fooled--these whiskies are distinctly different." She was right! Here's the list, as shown on the placemat at each seat.



And the products in person...


Riannon gave brief descriptions of the distilleries, a bit of history, and explanations of how each achieves its unique flavor. The selections ranged from unpeated though "chewably peaty" with a nice variety of flavors and aromas. I think the Caol Ila was my favorite of the evening; nicely balanced, lightly peated and 86 proof.
The "surprise" of the evening was the Kilchoman Single Cask. Ms Walsh said it was "62% alcohol" (124 proof) and "fairly young." This one will definitely blow your shoes off without a wee bit of water added. Or a lot of water. My wife remarked after that one that her sinuses would remain clear for days.

Besides the tasting, there was a silent auction that included two interesting bottles. I don't know the retail values of these, but the Springbank went for $310 and the Peat Monster for well over $400. (Remember this was a charity fundraiser for the theater...)


Each attendee received their very own tasting glass, identical to the ones shown. And ya' gotta' love the label!



So, all in all, a pleasant evening and some new acquaintances. Surprisingly, although I've lived here nearly 20 years and am active in the community, we didn't know anybody in the room. The event was informative and fun and we think we'll probably go again -- kilted probably, but without the rest of the dress-up.

[cookingkilted]

Sounds like the event was a memorable one. I would love to go to a tasting event one day.

[ASinclair]

Being a frequent reader ( ), I do remember the earlier thread that you reference, and I'm pleased to see you reporting back. I'm glad the event was a success for you and your wife, and I think your outfit was just right (the other guys should of kilted-up or at least worn ties). Thanks for sharing!

[ChristopherHarrell]

I think you looked very sharp Mr. Cat!

I'd love to find an event like that to one day attend.

[JohntheBiker]

Kilted + whatever and you still would have been better dressed. Well done and glad you enjoyed your evening.