The Spirit World

Today’s Drinks Around the World column is going around the world - at least figuratively. Too bad it’s not literally!

The February 2007 issue of Wine and Spirits (which should really be Wine and Spirits since 99.5% of the coverage is on wine) lists some interesting options for your liquor cabinet.

The first, a Scotch (and from Scotland so there’s no question about the name), Oak Cross Malt Scotch Whisky is produced in small batches by Compass Box. Compass Box has been blending whiskies to produce what they believe is a superior product. For Oak Cross they have created a special barrel that combines both American and French oak to bring elements of both to the final blend. The tasting notes from those who have reviewed it sound very promising.

Next on the list is Barsol Pisco Italia. Barsol Pisco has long been known as one of the finest Piscos from Peru. The Italia in the name refers to Italian style Muscat grapes used to produce this brandy. Unfortunately, their website is currently under construction so I couldn’t gather too many details straight from the source. However, I did notice that BevMax currently has this Pisco discounted!

Our final stop takes us to Cognac, where we visit a house that is rather new to the industry. Maison Cognac Park was founded in 1990 and their focus is on straight, unadulterated blends. Although the house is rather new they were able to acquire quite an inventory of stock, some already aged as long as 60 years. This house produces an entire line of Cognacs, although the Wine and Spirits article particularly called out the VSOP and the Traditional Reserve XO. For more information about those sometimes confusing letters you see on Cognac (and all Brandy) bottles, see Robert’s recent Brandy post.

Next time you are browsing through your local liquor store keep your eyes open for any of these interesting options and if you find them let us know what you think!