Oh, what a whisky night!

Scotch and single malt whisky aficionados who gathered at The Spanish Court hotel in New Kingston last Friday got a rare chance to experience an evening of indulgence under the expert guidance of Dr Kristie McCallum.

McCallum is a master blender and global brands ambassador at Burn Stewart Distillers.

Lascelles Limited was delighted that McCallum consented to be their special guest and presenter at Friday's function. The attendees were tutored on the particulars of the company's famous Scottish Leader whisky and were also walked through the meticulous processes from which the Bunnahabhain single malts are created.

Under the hypnotic aura of McCallum's soft and lilting Scottish accent, guests were left spellbound by the story of the Bunnahabhain Distillery's famous seaside location in Scotland and the various influences which combine to infuse the Bunnahabhain 12- and 18-year-old single malts with their unique and distinctive taste profiles.

Of course, when sampling commenced, the room became a place of much animation and fun, as hitherto silent and attentive persons were suddenly talkative and certainly far more excited. One thing is certain, every person there had a preference and the good-natured debate raged long after cocktails and the scheduled end of the event.

The relaxed evening was ably chaired by Lascelles' wine professional, Marilyn Bennett, while brand manager for Imported Wines & Spirits, Angostura and Burn Stewart Brands, Renée Bahadur, reminded the gathering that the Scottish Leader and Bunnahabhain whiskies, as well as the H by Hine and Hine Antique XO Cognac, which was also on display, are available from Lascelles and will be distributed by other fine liquor retailers and in-bond shops throughout Jamaica. Delighted guests Ian Moore, Garfield Robinson and Wilfred Bahadur each won a bottle of whisky. The satisfied group left The Spanish Court hotel feeling that an evening with Scottish Leader and Bunnahabhain was one well spent.