There is something about a great Islay single malt scotch that really captures me. Traditionally I am a fan of Ardberg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig (the really smokey and peaty scotchs) but it can be difficult to drink a lot of those throughout the evening as they can overwhelm the palate. This is when I usually switch to a smoother blend, such as a Johnny Walker Gold or Black, or even my everyday classic: The Glenlivet 12 year. That is until now. The Glenlivet 15 Year French Oak Reserve is a Speyside scotch that is smooth and easy drinking, but has a flavor and character that sets it apart. It is a bit more expensive that the 12 year, but provides

If you enjoy the smell and flavor of the worlds most expensive spice– saffron, then you may want to try this gin creation by Gabriel Boudier Dijon. Micro distilled in Dijon, France, this saffron infused gin had the unmistakable essence of saffron in it’s nose and on the tongue. I prefer it with soda water and a few rocks, but it can easily pair with the traditional tonic. Sadly, the color doesn’t come from the saffron alone, it also contains certified color and FD&C Yellow #5 which is a bit disappointing (check out organic gin for an all natural alternative), luckily the flavor is all real. Very mild flavor with a fairly traditional blend of botanicals, including the addition of