Whiskies of the World Overwhelms and Delights Attendees

Recently, I was honored to cover Whiskies of the World, Houston edition, and please, dear readers, do not take my delay in writing about my experiences as any indication of how much (or little) I enjoyed the event! 

Indeed, I departed at the end of the evening with a warm glow caused not solely by the quaffing of sophisticated spirits but also by the passion with which so many of the distillers described the origin and preparation of their potable products.

Up close and personal with Macallan

Stepping into the lobby preceding the large ballroom of the JW Marriott, my photographer and I were warmly greeted by the staff and given adorable miniature snifters for samples. We took a brief tour of the room, which was pleasantly but not oppressively crowded, noting with admiration not only the diverse vendors but the amazing buffet(s) (not the plural) of appetizers (cheese, crackers, nuts), entrees (sliders, macaroni and cheese), and desserts (cookies and puddings).   

We then headed to our Macallan Master Class, which I kept calling, even when corrected, a "seminar," I think because I subconsciously want to get a third Master's in whiskey.

The sommelier Elyse gave a very detailed presentation regarding Macallan's history, then guided us as we  sipped the distillery  12 Sherry Oak,  Double Cask 12, 15 Fine Oak, and  Rare Cask. These varieties ranged from the smoky and heady to the  sweetly botanical, and presented in a spectrum of light and dark amber hues that often belied the dominant tasting notes, which made for some delightful surprises with each sip.

Despite Bridey's heritage, she is only a wee lass and had to pace herself and not polish off the entire contents of each tasting glass in order to leave some capacity for a couple more tasting tipples before departing for the evening.  

Although I am "a whiskey person," I would urge those who don't identify as such to attend Whiskies of the World next time it stops in Houston. The sheer fun I had in discovering the variation in different whiskeys was equally matched by the infectious spirit (hah!) of the fellow attendees.

Upcoming: Whiskies of the World (September 30th, 2017)

This weekend, I encourage you to eat locally (#HoustonStrong) but drink globally by attending the Whiskies of the World Festival this coming Saturday, September 30th. This event, rescheduled due to Harvey, will feature approximately purveyors from locales in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. An added bonus is that 50% of ticket sales go to Harvey Relief.

Click here to buy tickets;  $40 will be credited at checkout. Woo hoo!

Participants can also purchase additional tickets for master classes led by experts who can enhance your quaffing with some quality facts about the background of a particular spirit.

Bridey plans to attend and if you see her, please do say, 'hello.' But not in the Adele way. 

Countdown: Angel Fire Food & Wine Roundup

In fewer than three months, I plan to head to the idyllic forests of the San Moreno Valley in northern New Mexico for the food & wine festival at the Angel Fire Resort.

My festival itinerary includes spirits seminars, cooking demos focusing on regional specialties, and a Chuck Wagon breakfast. But given the hotel's location and other amenities, I might also have to work in some biking, hiking, and boating.

HIGHLIGHTS: Sugarland Food & Wine Affair

This past weekend I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Grand Tasting at the Sugarland Food & Wine Affair. 

Although I cannot tell you with any certainty the difference between a food & wine 'affair' and a food & wine 'festival', I can tell you my favorite sips and bites. Here they are; order not reflective of Bridey preference.

Multiple samples were had.

First, the "moist unusual" piquant cucumber-infused cocktails courtesy of Hendrick's Gin.

Second, the earthy rabbit rillets prepared with Spanish brandy atop a crispy herbal  'po-boy' crostini from The Durham House. 

Third, the lighter-than-air yet delightfully rich in botanical flavor caramelized cheese soufflee from La Table.

Author ate too fast; forgot to take photo.

Fourth, the perfectly cooked scallop atop earthy fennel and leek risotto from Frank's American Revival.

Fifth, the most impressive chocolate cake stuffed with a whole pecan pie from Mystic Dessert Bar.

Still stuffed and can't wait for next year.