Whisky Works – As the Barrel Turns (Episode 12 Birthday Edition)

This week on a very special episode of As the Barrel Turns, Dr Thomson invites his younger brother Ian to be Guest Turner. Although his brother has seen his celebrity wane, he once shone on the bar circuit as The Toast Master General, the much talked about opening act for Guelph’s legendary band… ummm… you know. The one with Jake in it.

“We’re just a couple of middle-aged guys doing a mid-aging whisky sample,” the senior Thomson quips. (It’s his birthday so we’re letting him get away with lame quotes.)

After prepping his brother, Dr Thomson hands over the rotation duties. The sudden return to the limelight proves almost too much for Ian, but he somehow manages to quell his nerves and complete his turn at the turn without incident.

Dr Thomson then pours a wee dram to taste.

Slightly darker than the previous sample, the whisky remains a rich amber. Time to sniff…

The whisky, Ian. Not your brother.

On the nose the whisky is more mellow than previous incarnations, while Dr Thomson smells slightly of Old Spice.

Is cask strength whisky any smoother with two months under its barrel?

Apparently, not.

To open up the whisky and smooth the finish, Thomson adds a bit of water.

This addition helps reveal unexpected changes. While the oak has tempered the smokiness, some of the undertones seem more muted.

Scotch and birthday cake are an odd combination, but then again, rumour has it, so are the Thomson brothers.

If you’re interested in being a Guest Turner have your people talk to our people. We’ll do lunch (you buy).