Head of Oracle Paradis Wine Fund outlines the 5 dos and don’ts for the Burns Night novice to the seasoned connoisseur
David Nathan-Maister, whisky expert, Burns enthusiast and Director of Oracle Paradis Wine Fund, today offers five fool-proof whisky tips to guarantee a successful Burns Night. The Oracle Paradis Wine Fund is part of Oracle Capital Group, the independent multi-family office, and offers investors two share classes – Fine Wines and Rare Spirits.
The Dos and Don’ts
1. Go for a single malt – more interesting, more individual, more character
“It’s difficult to know how to choose a “good whisky” if you aren’t a seasoned drinker, but you don’t have to play it safe or break the bank to make a good impression. Go for a single malt, not a blend – more interesting, more individual, more character. Don’t waste money paying for a whisky in a fancy crystal decanter – you can’t drink the glass, only the contents. Great whiskies often come in very standard shaped bottles. Try an Island whisky, like Talisker – smokier and spicier than a Highland whisky, but not as medicinal tasting as some Islay’s”
2. For those more ambitious – how much can you spend on a whisky?
“Those wishing to shoot the lights out, a 1908 Laphroiag, which might set you back a healthy £5000.”
3. Must it be Scottish?
“It definitely has to be Scotch whisky on Burns night. But for the rest of the year, of course there are great whiskies from Ireland, and from the US. For variety, try a straight rye (Sazerac make a wonderful one) rather than a bourbon.”
4. Any merit in decanting it?
“No need at all to decant your whisky, unless it’s to show off your fine cut glass Edinburgh crystal decanter!”
5. Hair of the dog?
“Combine 4 oz Scotch whisky, 2 oz honey, 2 oz cream and 1 oz cold espresso coffee. Serve over ice cubes, with a buttered aspirin on the side….”
Notes to Editors:
David Nathan-Maister:
David has more than 20 years professional experience in the wine and spirits industry as a wine producer, rare wine merchant, industry consultant and author. He is involved in the manufacture, distribution and sale of fine wines and ultra-premium spirits in the UK, France and Germany. David is a vineyard and distillery owner in France, a consultant to several spirits producers, and a judge of long standing at the International Wine & Spirit Competition.
Oracle Paradis Wine Fund:
Oracle Paradis Wine Fund brings a powerful professional focus to one of is the most appealing alternative investment asset classes, wine and whisky, for investors looking both to reduce their overall portfolio risk, and to benefit from the continued appreciation in the value of fine wines driven in particular by burgeoning demand from emerging markets in Asia and elsewhere.
www.oracleparadis.com
