In the Spirit

Talisker 10-Year-Old

By Al Davis

We are still in the month of Cheshvan, which we call “MarCheshvan,” literally “bitter Cheshvan,” because after all the hoopla and ballyhoo of the holidays in Tishrei, Cheshvan is totally devoid of holidays. Yeah – way to put a damper on our spirits.

But that doesn’t mean we shy away from a good l’chaim to counteract the missing holidays. After spirited Shabbos davening and a sermon to further rouse the spirit within, some liquid spirits are always welcome.

As a commentator said, “Talisker 10-Year-Old doesn’t tiptoe into your glass!” You’ll immediately notice a combination of pepper and sea salt, and enough smoke to separate it from the typical highland malt Scotches. Add the malt and a touch of spices, and you’ve got a drink to tickle your tastebuds.

It’ll set you back $65-75 for the bottle. “For a 10-year-old?” you might balk. “I can get several decent 12-year-olds for that price!” I’ve heard it said, “Age isn’t necessarily a scoreboard.” For example, the 15-year-old Glenfiddich beats the 18-year-old, hands down!

The drink comes in at 91.6 proof – enough spirit to let you know it’s on your palate, but without delivering a Shabbosdike klop* to your senses. (*What you might get from a solid right cross delivered by Muhammed Ali.) Note: if briny or smoky turns you off, keep shopping. But after a month of wine, wine, wine – with a few bourbons tossed in – this is a great change.

L’chaim!

Al Davis is a HaD’var contributor.