Why autumn is the best time for whisky
There seems to be a new whisky release almost daily, as we say goodbye to summer.
As the nights draw in and the weather turns colder, it takes me a good few weeks to fully embrace autumn. But one thing that tends to help is the sheer number of new whisky releases, and events surrounding these, which really add a sense of celebration and occasion to the impending darkness. There’s nothing better than a dram enjoyed by a fire, whether that’s at home, in the pub or in a hotel in the Highlands.
While the industry has had an ongoing downturn, there’s something comforting about the new releases and sense of excitement from those who’ve had a tough few years. The sheer number of new whisky releases at this time of the year has inspired the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) to call for a celebration of the ‘whisky equinox’ on the autumn equinox.
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To mark the occasion of the changing seasons, the SMWS has released a special pair of half-size, 35cl Whisky Equinox bottles one for the light and one for the dark of the turning season: Riesling Spritz in the Sun, a 12-year-old Speyside, and Spice It Up After Dark, an 11-year-old Highland whisky.
While The Whisky Exchange has gone a bit more stellar with their autumn equinox whiskies, the final four of which have been released as part of their Zodiac series. These whiskies have all been chosen to ‘reflect the distinctive personalities’ of their star signs. Gimmicky selling point? To some, maybe, but it also makes these whiskies ideal gifts for those unsure of what to buy their dram loving friend or family member. I don’t want to say the C word but we’re well on our way to the festivities and all the present buying that goes with it.
While it’s never easier embracing the dark nights, to do so with a sense of occasion and a new whisky will always make it a little bit easier.
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