Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/221505
THE MESSAGE Discovering the Latest Glenfiddich G PHOTO: DAVID GADD Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador Mitch Bechard pours a dram of the newly released Glenfiddich Age of Discovery Bourbon Cask Reserve, aged 19 years. PHOTO: JONATHAN CRISTALDI lenfiddich Brand Ambassador Mitch Bechard donned full Scottish regalia, holding court over an intimate gathering at Seven Grand in Downtown Los Angeles to introduce the brand's newest Scotch whisky offering: The Glenfiddich Age of Discovery Bourbon Cask Reserve (SRP $150). With Seven Grand's reputation for bringing whiskey to the people, it was an apropos venue to host the launch event of this limited-release 19-year old spirit in the bar's private room and fumier— only 15,000 bottles have been allocated to the U.S. by William Grant & Sons. Bechard recounted for us tales of early American pioneers who lived upon the waters of the Mississippi— the very "confidence men" described by Herman Melville, an observed whisky drinker, in his book The Confidence Man. Early 19-century American whiskies were mellowed in barrels as they made the slow trek southward aboard paddle steamers, destined for the port of New Orleans. From there, emptied casks were shipped across the Atlantic to Scotland, where they were used to mature Scotch whisky. The Age of Discovery celebrates those adventurous pioneers and the very American bourbon casks that have become a necessary staple for Scotch whisky production. This gorgeous single malt wafts aromas of vanilla, coconut, raisins and cardamom, leading to a smooth, gentle fire on the palate. —Jonathan Cristaldi VeeV la Happy Hour! We stopped by the new VeeV executive offices in Beverly Hills to join the brand's regular Monday "Happy Hour" gathering. Here, VeeV co-founder Courtney Reum poses by the open bar as fans enjoy au-courant VeeV cocktails and conversation. 18 / the tasting panel / december 2013 TP1213_001-33.indd 18 11/22/13 8:37 PM