LuxeBook May 2022

offer you only the joy that you find in its drinking.” “Each whisk(e)y’s unique flavour profile allows me to understand how best it will suit a cocktail, giving great flavour without losing itself completely. Light blends are good for delicate flavours while big, bold flavours like robust whisky to match”, adds Basu. “While sipping on whisk(e)y I tend pick food that will either complement or contrast the flavour of the liquid. My all-time favourite is mature or vintage cheddar with the occasional apple for contrast. Grilled sausage, cold meat and even the occasional not-too-spicy kabab. Nuts work well as does some dark chocolate. Whiskey cocktails are great with spicy food and can be a part of almost any meal if you can play with simple and fresh fruit flavours. Keep the deeper cocktails for desserts, cigars and cheese!” Recommendations for beginners Basu recommends to begin drinking whisk(e)y in long drinks — bourbon, light scotch and Irish blends with ginger ale, lemonade, orange juice, apple juice, cola if you just love it. Then slowly, every now and again, sip whisky with someone who knows them well and can help you relate to the flavours gently. Give it time. Taste and understand. You will suddenly find toffee and vanilla, orange marmalade and Christmas cake, cinnamon and biscuit! Now that you have an overview on what whisk(e)y is, embark on your journey to find out more about this fantastic spirit and how complex and wonderful it is. Always remember that there is no right or wrong way to enjoy it, as long as you enjoy it that’s all that matters. But don’t forget to explore and experiment with it by using different glasses, having it at different temperatures or even trying it with different cocktail recipes! Slowly, every now and again, sip whisky with someone who knows them well and can help you relate to the flavours gently. Give it time. 36| L U X E B O O K | M AY 2 0 2 2