The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults – A Visit

Jim Coleman and Alex Gloag

Last week Nicola and I together with Alex and Scott went for a long awaited visit to The Vaults. They had recently opened the Courtyard covered by a large marquee with tables set out with safe distancing in mind, ideal for the current climate.

It has been over three months since I was last in The Vaults, the longest period in about 10/11 years and I was developing withdrawal symptoms.

On arrival we were met by Gregor (the venue manager) together with Dean, Miguel, Javin and Joe (the Gang) who popped out of the office to say hello.

We all felt a little bit of normality had now come into our lives. We were served with beers and drams, and had a look at the limited menu and ordered some food. For the past 3/4 months we have all dined at home or got a carry out. To sit down and have drinks and food served at our table was fabulous. It was great to meet up with the Gang and do a little bit of catch up.

SMWS The Vaults

We sampled a mixed variety of drams from the new July outturn and enjoyed a couple of beers all recommended by Dean, Miguel or Javin.

Dean escorted Nicola and I into the main bar in vaults to let us look at The Shop so that we could buy a bottle or two. Nicola and I decided to buy a bottle each to be put on The Whisky Boys slab. Dean let Nicola taste 41.126 ‘MULLED CIDER WITH RYE’ a 13 year old Dailuaine (oloroso butt) and she loved it.

I asked Dean for a recommendation on what he has enjoyed from past outturns and it was 58.33 ‘Sweet and juicy dry finish’ an 11 year old from one of my favourite distilleries Strathisla (bourbon hogshead). So, these were the two bottles we purchased for our slab. You will not be surprised that these two bottles are now opened and sitting proudly on our wooden island of dreams aka the slab.

Nicola and Scott Young

These two drams are delightful and we expect that they will have a short slab life.

It will not be long until all the SMWS venues in Scotland, The Vaults, Queen Street and the new members venue in Bath Street Glasgow will be open with limited times. Nicola and I will certainly be booking a table for the Bath Street venue very very soon.

A big THANKS to Gregor and the Gang for the wonderful service they gave us while spending a couple of hours in the courtyard, thanks again.

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