WHISKY & FOOD PAIRINGS 101
When it comes to whisky, the flavors in the bottle are just the beginning. Pairing your favorite expression with certain foods or mixing it into the right cocktail can unlock a whole new experience for your palate. And new experiences are what life – and scotch – are all about. Check out these tips and get ready to savor even more from your single malt scotch whisky…
THE GLENLIVET FOUNDER’S RESERVE
When our founder George Smith began distilling, he rewrote the rules. This expression follows his lead with a surprising combination of delicate flavors, complex fruity tones and a smooth, creamy sweetness.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Appetizer: Baked goat’s cheese with a caramel sauce
Main: Crusted salmon over pesto noodles
Decadent: Dark chocolate pudding with fresh berries
CLASSIC SERVE: Scotch & Soda Highball.
Bubbly soda adds an invigorating fizz to this whisky’s flavors, which you can complement with a lemon twist or your pick of fruits and garnishes. What you like is what really matters.
To really impress: Elevate to the next level with a Pistachio Paradise.
THE GLENLIVET
12 YEAR OLD
This single malt scotch whisky is matured in traditional oak and American oak casks that leave notes of vanilla and a distinct smoothness. It’s balanced, fruity and represents our signature style to a T.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Appetizer: Sweet potato hummus with pita chips
Main: Pan seared scallops over risotto
Decadent: Mango sorbet
CLASSIC SERVE: Old Fashioned
It’s a simple cocktail that only uses three ingredients, but still brings a bold twist that lets the complex scotch flavors shine in an anything-but-simple way.
To really impress: Elevate to the next level with a Turmeric Twist.
THE GLENLIVET 14 YEAR OLD
This expression develops unique raisin and citrus notes from time spent in bourbon and sherry casks before a selective finish in cognac casks. It’ll hit your taste buds with a rich, intense flavor that packs just a hint of spice.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Appetizer: Mushroom tarts
Main: Glazed duck or pork belly
Decadent: Apple rum raisin bread pudding
CLASSIC SERVE: Scotch Negroni
We put a whisky spin on this well-known favorite for good reason. Go ahead, tell us the bold flavor and subtle spice of the scotch doesn’t balance with the bitters perfectly.
To really impress: Elevate to the next level with a Whisky Wine Sour.
THE GLENLIVET
15 YEAR OLD
Fun fact: The Glenlivet was one of the first to use French oak for making whisky, a technique that’s since been copied around the world. The result is a scotch with gentle and delicate spice, which is exactly the point.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Appetizer: Roasted BBQ cauliflower bites
Main: Prime cuts of steak
Decadent: Dried fruit, chocolate-covered nuts or a cheese platter
CLASSIC SERVE: Neat or on the rocks
This whisky doesn’t need a lot of fanfare or fuss to make a statement. Just take a sip and let the luxurious taste speak for itself… it’s got plenty to say.
WONDERING WHAT TO DO NEXT?
First, plan a date, time, guest list and explore our tips to host an elevated gathering or party (hint: make it even easier with a custom digital invite). Next, finalize your food pairings, shop for ingredients and make sure to stock up on The Glenlivet. Then, just have yourself a dram good time… you’ve got this!
