The single best way (i) to avoid catching the ‘flu by stepping out at night, (ii) to deal with the ‘flu once you’ve caught it from staying out too late or (iii), to display a complete indifference to whether you survive winter intact or not, is unquestionably to open and enjoy a rich, mellow single Highland malt whisky. That’s whisky without an ‘e’, which means it’s Scottish, and ‘single malt’ to denote a pure, unblended spirit made from 100% malted Highland barley, which has more protein and flavour than any other. No two malts are alike, and the Glenfarclas 12 y.o. is more individual than most. Glenfarclas is one of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, found high above the River Spey, below the craggy slopes of Cairn Guish. Its spirit is typically elegant, yet full in flavour, with spirit as smooth as the black ice of Loch Ness. Aged in old sherry casks for twelve years, it only needs one further thing to reach true perfection. Someone to drink it. An Oriental Alternative… For those tempted to try a different approach to an age-old problem, here is an excellent Oriental remedy to winter. Traditionally served warm, Sake is a Japanese liqueur made from what could best be described as rice wine. It is sweet and colourless, with a characteristically bitter aftertaste. But don’t be fooled by the dimensions of the miniscule porcelain cups the Japanese serve it from. And if the Clouds Blow Away… A spicy dry wine to place on the table as the sun peers through the clouds, the new Brown Bros. Dry Muscat Blanc is intensely flavoured with tropical and floral nuances. Quite ready to serve now, it finishes, long, crisp and dry. Try it with delicate seafoods and spicy Asian, Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisine. Make sure you chill this wine, regardless of the Weather Bureau’s opinion.
