Scotch tasting at Laurel Villa
MILFORD - Scotch whisky connoisseurs will enjoy an armchair journey through the Scottish Isles as the Laurel Villa Country Inn & Restaurant in Milford hosts its “Second Annual Premium Scotch Tasting” on Friday, Jan. 5. Guests will enjoy three premium single-malt Scotches and, for comparison, two fine blended Scotches including one so new that it is not even available in most areas. “The full, complex flavors of Scotch vary widely depending on a region’s climate and soil,” said Janice Halsted, Innkeeper at the Laurel Villa. “We’ve chosen five that highlight these dramatic differences.” The three single malt Scotches selected for the event are Highland Park, a fifteen-year-old from Orkney Island; Macallan, a Highland twelve-year-old, and Tamdhu, from the Speyside region. These will be compared with Famous Grouse, a twelve-year-old blended Scotch. Each will be presented and discussed by Michelle Pivovarnik of Bartolomeo Pio Wines & Spirits. A highlight of the tasting will be the presentation of JMR’s, Smoother Sweeter One, the world’s first Scotch/Irish blend. A Gold Medal Winner at the 2005 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this trailblazing hybrid blends the sweetness of 70% single malt Irish from Cooley’s Distillery with 30% single malt Scotch from Bunnahabhain for an unforgettable new taste. Chef Carl will create a selection of hot hors d’oeuvres to accompany the selections, and guests who choose to stay for dinner will receive 15% off their entree. “If your partner isn’t a scotch drinker, we’re happy to substitute two beverages of their choice from the bar while you enjoy the tasting,” said Halsted, “and we also offer an “hors d’oeuvres only” special at half price.” The next event in the Laurel Villa’s monthly tasting series will be “Valentine on the Vine,” a romantic celebration on Friday, Feb. 9. Special President’s Weekend getaway packages will be available. The 6:30 p.m., seating for the “Second Annual Premium Scotch Tasting” is limited and reservations, at $30 per person, should be made by Tuesday, Jan. 2. For reservations and more information, call 570-296-9940. The Laurel Villa, www.laurelvilla.com, is located at Second & East Ann Streets in Milford.