n3at

Erica Durance

2005-11-04T16:36:00.000-05:00

Highland vs. Speyside

2005-10-13T14:34:00.000-04:00

Well I unwittingly just did a taste test between Highland single malt Scotch and Speyside Single Malt Scotch. This author prefers....

Well before I tell you:

Highlands
By far the biggest region, the Highlands inevitably embraces wide variations. The western part of the Highlands, at least on the mainland, has only a few, scattered, distilleries, and it is difficult to generalize about their character. If they have anything in common, it is a rounded, firm, dry character, with some peatiness. The far north of the Highlands has several whiskies with a notably heathery, spicy, character which probably derives both from the local soil and the coastal location of the distilleries. The more sheltered East Highlands and the Midlands of Scotland (sometimes described as the South Highlands) have a number of notably fruity whiskies.
Speyside

Speyside
This area is universally acknowledged as the heartland of malt whisky distillation. This area, between the cities of Inverness and Aberdeen, sweeps from granite mountains down to fertile countryside, where barley is among the crops. It is the watershed of a system of rivers, the principal among them is the Spey.

The Speyside single malts are noted in general for their elegance and complexity, and often a refined smokiness. Beyond that, they have two extremes: the big, sherried types, as typified by The Macallan; and the lighter, less colourful style of the "Glens".

So, I compared the Macallan Highland vs. Cragganmore Speyside, what did I find? I much preferred the Highland, and in looking back, even when recommended, I did not enjoy the Speyside. For me, the author, the Spey side is too acidic. Not sure if it's the relation to the sea in which the salt has encroached the land or if there is another factor (I have also never been a fan of Sherrie, could be a the same factor). Give a sample and let n3at know what you have discovered for yourself. When drinking neat there is no wrong answer, it's all to your taste!

a little more: Planning a trip? Stay at the Cragganmore House!

tasting note:
To clarify I did my taste test on 12 year old Single Malt, however in the past I have a had a 15 and 21 year Highland that was in great agreement with my pallet and two different 15 year Speyside that did not agree.

New post are coming...

2005-10-11T00:50:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the delay, but keep an eye out for some new postings thru out the week...

Shan

2005-09-28T19:33:00.000-04:00

Don't wait...well read this then visit Cartoon Retro and see the work of Shan and the classics that inspire him.

The Macallan

2005-09-18T23:26:00.000-04:00

Never I taste a land so grand as Scotland.

A most excellent scotch with a very informative website. Don't hesitate in visiting the Macallan site. Learn about the island and all it's richness. Then purchase a bottle and be ready to taste this beautiful land in every sip.

White Russian...

2005-09-10T22:24:00.000-04:00

...well the ingredients at least...

Chopin Vodka

Busy times...

2005-09-01T01:19:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the lack of postings. For now, some quick shots...

Do you know who's who?

Crissy Moran and Marker's Mark, Classics...

2005-08-26T23:30:00.000-04:00

No doubt, it wouldn't take you long to see why these two are easily American Classics.

Just have to ask your self, "How could something so Good be Bad for you?" then ask yourself "How can something so Bad be Good?!". It's easy Crissy Moran is someone you can tied up or tied down, while Marker's Mark can easly be thrown back or sipped conently.Crissy Moran is a young model from California, who has appeared in numerous projects, including Mystique Magazine and Playboy: Book Of Lingerie

This stunning Diva came into the modeling world by accident! Seeing an Internet site where aspiring models could post their pictures, Crissy had someone scan some snapshots. Crissy then posted the pics, as global job offers soon started pouring in! Now here picture can be found everywhere on the Internet. Summer, is still my theme and I found these photo’s in a bathing suit stunning to say the least. Crissy will easily go down as an American classic. There is just something about her built and sex appeal that will stand the test of time.

Now there are a few official and non-official sites, and to the best of our knowledge this is “The Official Site” Club Crissy

Continuing with Quality, here comes Marker’s Mark. The family commits to the philosophy that has been passed down, simply “Whiskey should be hand-crafted in small batches by people. American made, true to nature.

Marker’s Mark is made with pure iron-free limestone spring water exclusively! Traditionally Whiskey, American that is, is made from Corn. There’s no change here, Yellow Corn and Red Winter Wheat from specially selected small farm cooperatives supply this distillery. The wheat is what gives it the mellow taste that has kept Marker’s Mark on the top shelf. In a time of fast pass, it’s refreshing to see someone still takes the time to make something right. One should take the on-line tour at Marker’s Mark to fully appreciate everything that goes into making this fine American Whiskey. Get the details, right down to the American White Oak Barrels. As always, take it “neat” before you move on, but even I’m tempted to try their “Perfect Mint Julep”.

Summer nights...

2005-08-24T00:54:00.000-04:00

They devote their energy and limited time above ground to calling and mating. The Cicada's are here and are very lovely this year. After 17 years they emerged as a voice stress and friendly group. If you're not blessed with the Cicada in your neighborhood, or part of the globe visit Cicada Mania for lots of bits o' information and sound bites.

I have to say I've never tried it, however this Eagle Rare 17 year Old Single Barrel, looks like the perfect accompaniment to the singing of the Cicada's tonight. This Kentucky breed drink is Distilled by Buffalo Trace, smack dab between Louisville and Lexington Kentucky. Hope your experiencing the summer out there there!

With sweet summer on my mind, the heart land is calling. Earlier this month there where some posting across the net of Mel, from Real World Austin, being a little randy. However this home spun girl with a heart of gold and a smile that can warm anyone's soul has a place in this world. Prediction, if She can get out of her Viacom contract sooner then later, Mel will be around for a long time. We just hope she doesn't fall into the Realty star wash-up boat. Someone to watch out for, Melinda is from Wisconsin, 21 years of age, and is brightly shinning.

The rain never came...

2005-08-22T13:58:00.000-04:00

Ana Beatriz Barro

Michelle Alves

Daniella Sarahyba

So upon digging around this weekend, I came across a notable blog and have officially begun my Blog roll. "on the beach at the end of the world" This girl of 24 has grabbed our interest. Check out the blog but make sure you come back. Maybe we can get a little cross promo going, or an interview, some photo’s…Who knows.

R. McGinnis R. McGinness

2005-08-20T16:31:00.000-04:00

No mistake, there are two R. McGinnis... I mean McGinness. Let me clear that up there are two artists on our list today. Robert McGinnis, the top notch Illustrator from the 60's who's worked graced book jackets, movie posters, story illustration with some great brushwork. The other artist on our list is the younger Ryan McGinness, living in the world of flat art Ryan's graphic screenings are seen on one of a kind merchandise, large scale installations, and prints in both book for and poster.

Robert McGinnis, elected into the Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame in 1993, is best known for his unsurpassed depictions of glamorous, elegant women. Mr. McGinnis's work, if anything, reflects the playboy lifestyle of the 60's.

In most recent news of Robert McGinnis: "Paul Jilbert, the filmmaker who is making the documentary "Robert McGinnis: Painting the Last Rose of Summer", will shortly be making available a print of Robert McGinnis's painting for the James Bond movie "Diamonds are Forever". Robert McGinnis has agreed to sign and number 50 25" x 19.5" prints on fine art paper." More info of the latest news can be gathered at Graeme Flanagan's tribute.

Robert McGinnis was born in 1926 and grew up in rural Ohio. As very athletic kid, it was his mothers pushing that found this American classic in drawing class. He studied at the Academy of Commercial Art in Cincinnati and his first paperback was published in 1958, "Built for Trouble". Since then he has illustrated over a 1000 book covers. In addition to his paperback work, Robert McGinnis' beautiful women have appeared on a number of movie posters, including those for "Breakfast at Tiffany's", "Barbarella" and the James Bond movies "Diamonds are Forever", "Live and Let Die" and "Thunderball".

Now Ryan McGinness, no direct relationship to Robert McGinnis that I know of, was born in 1972 and currently lives in New York City. His graphic styling has spawned a generation of graphic inspiration. Starting as a more traditional Commercial graphic artist, Ryan has elevated his work to that of modern art expression. His work is looked upon as a way to experiment with space, color, shape, and evokes a sense of humanity. Even though his work can be found on t-shirts,
skateboard decks, and even a soccer ball it transcends the typical mass-produced product and falls under the collectable art piece generated for the ultra hipster and art collector alike. Spend sometime exploring the elements used and stay tuned for up coming exhibits.

Okay, so you can't say the name McGinnis or McGinness without wanting a Guinness

. So it doesn't fall under the category of "spirit's" but it's close enough and is full of body, deep color, and great form. Go to your local pub tonight, order a Guinness and raise your glass and tell your bar tender this one's for McGinnis (or McGinness). Try not to get confused which is which.

...and always drink responsibly!

Summer refreshment...

2005-08-20T00:03:00.000-04:00

It looks like rain this weekend. However I cannot stop thinking of sipping on a gin and enjoying the natural abandonment that takes place this time of year.

I've recently reminded myself of a very tasty and refreshing gin, Hendrick's. A small batch Gin distilled in, the homeland of our top listed drink of choice, Scotland. More precisely Ayrshire, Scotland. As the winner of "The Wall Street Journals" Gin category, it's one unique infusion. Sounding like an ingredients list for a SoHo salad, Hendrick's is made with hints of Coriander, Juniper, Citrus Peel, Rose Petals, and an infusion of Cucumber. It's more refreshing then any Gin on the market, and rich enough for the most sophisticated Martini drinker. Before you start mixing, take it neat (chilled) and fully experience this complex blend of summer offerings.

If it's raining in your little corner of the world and you're lacking some imagination, let me offer you an uninhibited Petra Nemcova. This Czech born model has graced the cover of SI swimsuit edition and comes up in many fashion magazines. Here she strutted on stage...

This last photo of Petra, feels like the perfect ad for Gin.

Enjoy your summer no matter what it's like out today... or tomorrow... or the next.

Get outside...

2005-08-18T23:48:00.000-04:00

Summer is near it's end, in this part of the globe. Make sure you get outside and take in all it's beauty.

Color or Colour as I prefer to spell

2005-08-16T14:35:00.000-04:00

The artist is Robert O. Reid, the time period the 30's. A time when Illustrators where kings, they brought art into the home and represented a sensibility for both the home life and after hours. There's not much information about Robert O. Reid, during a turbulent time in history his name disappeared sometime after the war. Robert Reid was in good company, with several contracts for advertising ads in Collier's, Cosmopolitan and Good Housekeeping. Many Illustrations during this time where printed in black and red. Such simplicity brought out amazing depth and warmth to many Illustrators work. This illustration of a woman in a black slip is no exception. I will post more illustrations by this artist in the future. Now if she was holding a glass of scotch!

Warmth

2005-08-16T14:00:00.000-04:00

The warmth of the Brazilain sun can be felt in this native, from her warm bronzen skin to her briliant smile. Meet Barbara Borges, who recently hit the radar when she posed for Playboy Brasil, however she has been pushing at fame for some time a couple CD's, gobs of news paper clippings and many spanish cinema movies. It looks like she has now come of age, and we are looking forward to seeing and hearing more from this elegant lady. We wish, we spoke spanish so we can find out more info of this warm body of Barbara Borges.. If you know more about Barbara please post. If you are Barbara, we would love to interview you.

Full Body

2005-08-16T13:21:00.000-04:00

Ravenscroft is the leader in Handmade Lead-free Crystal for Fine Wines and Spirits. Taken directly from the company website “…Ravenscroft Crystal is the embodiment of old-world European craftsmanship and a modern understanding of how the composition and shape of a wine glass can significantly enhance the tasting experience.”

The Single Malt Scotch Tumbler, shown, is part of the Distiller Collection. These elegantly shaped glasses are designed to soften the highest impact of the flower aroma of your spirit of choice. The glasses of Ravenscroft represent the Full Body quality which "neat" represents. To fulfill this quality I recommend filling your Ravenscroft glass with a Glenrothes Single Malt Whiskey. Recently I enjoyed sharing a bottle of The Glenrothes Vintage 1992 with a friend, neat of course. My friend does practice the sprinkle, in which a small amount of fresh water is sprinkled atop the freshly poured spirit. I however choose to take small sips of room temperature water after an appropriated time from sipping the spirit. Either take, you will enjoy this Fruity bouquet with a zesty citrus palate, which hints to the sherry oak cask, as it lingers with a spicy medium finish. At this point wait till this final sensation leaves before taking on a sip of water, you will then fell the freshness of the Black plums and Licorice. The Glenrothes 'house style' is truely typical of the Speyside characteristics and we enjoy!

Dedication of "neat"

2005-08-15T23:53:00.000-04:00

This blog will act as a medium, to show respect and appreciation of full body, warmth, and color of Spirits, Women, and Art...

please feel free to send your picture(s), that meet the theme and qualities of "neat"