If a person stopped you on the street and asked you to name the 3 nations in the world that make the best Whisky, what would you answer?

I would answer, Japan, Scotland and India. There are two notable Whisky brands from India – Paul John and Amrut. Both are top shelf excellent, yet both are distinctly different. The Paul John is peated, smoky and bold. Just the way I like my Whisky. In your travels, if you see Paul John, get a bottle. You will enjoy it. Add a bit of water to your dram to open up the Whisky and release all it has to offer.

In your travels, if you ever see Nikka Gin, get yourself a bottle. If you are a whisky afficionado you already know the reputation that Japanese Whisky has. I was not surprised then to taste that that same level of craftsmanship has been applied to Gin. The citrus flavor in this Gin derives from the use of Yuzu, Kabosu and Amanatsu citrus fruit. Apple is used to lend some body and mouthfeel and Sansho Pepper is used to give a nice finish. Expensive? At $78 for a 750 ml bottle, I would argue that yes, it is expensive. But it is a product that you do not drink everyday. I can take a dram of this Gin and savor it for a long while as I nose its beautiful aroma and gently let the citrus-laden droplets tease my taste-buds.