Tommy suggests a Christmas tasting order to brother-in-law Rick

Dick, This sounds like a lot of fun. I have definite opinions on the order of the tasting. To maximize the tasting so you can learn the most from the experience before passing out I would do the following: Start with the Glenkinchie, a lowland distillery just 15 miles south of Edinburgh. This is a mild smooth expression of whisky that no one will find harsh or offensive and will set the mood for the night. Next proceed to the Speyside region with Cragganmore, Ben M's favorite. Next try a Glenfiddich (remember it's pronounced like your name, Dick.) Now move to the Highlands with a Dalwhinnie, and Glenmorangie (the Scots favorite.) Leaving this region you will have had your fill of the sweet and floral tasting whiskies leaving you with a strong desire for something more manly. Will the Priest be joining you? Let's move to the West Highland regiion with Oban. You will now start to experience the effect of the westernly winds and the ocean to a small degree. Now in preparation for the grand finale move to the Island of Skye and enjoy a dram of Talisker. OK it's time to finsih with a true Islay, my favorite Lagavulin. Tastinig an Islay in any order but last will defeat the purpose of a whisky tasting because an Islay will wipe out your taste buds and prevent you from picking up some of the more delicate expressions of the other whiskies. Now if you are still standing and are not having sex with each other sit back, light up a cigar and enjoy a dram of Dalmore cigar malt. Slainte, Tommy Maaltman

Tommy reflects on an Islay, grandpa's death, a new book by Edward Rutherfurd and urinals.

Dave, as I was sipping a 19.44, sandalwood and stale cigarettes reminding me of my grandfather just before his uremic death, I noticed Edward Rutherfurd's new book entitled , New York was just released. I picked up a copy. On a side note, I am sure I have photos of Paris but they would not be digital and therefore I would need to scan them and then send them to you if you want them. Don't forget, most of my photos are of urinals. Slainte, Tommy Maaltman

Dave is right, Tommy has a limited vocabulary.

Dave, You are right. Now that you mention it I do seem to be fixated in bodily functions when I describe my tasting notes. But considering I spend a great deal of time in blood, pus, urine , gas, and feces, you can easily understand why my vocabulary is somewhat limited and why I use these adjectives in my descriptions of single malts. You are what you eat! Slainte, Tommy Maaltman