23
TUESDAY
Start with a tulip-shaped glass, pour yourself a wee dram, and warm it for a moment before raising it to your nose. In Scotland, it is also customary to add a little spring water (still, of course) to bring out the character of the malt. Sniff again before sipping…But remember: You’ve got only two hours with the largest assortment of single-malt and Scotch whiskies ever assembled under one roofand you’re expected to eat dinner and (if you like) sample cigars, too. If you’re going to give your selections the treatment they deserve, then you’d better make your selections carefully. My advice? Skip the Chivas and the Cutty and go for the single-malts. Although the folks behind the Single Malt & Scotch Whisky Extravaganza won’t promise any particulars, look for plenty of 12-year-old or better scotches with names you can’t pronounce when the tasting comes to D.C. at 7 p.m. at the J.W. Marriott Hotel, 1331 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. $80. For reservations call (800) 990-1991. (Caroline Schweiter)