My usual single malt scotches include Glenlivet, Cardhu, Glenfiddich 18 year, but when I went to the local liquor store for a Cardhu, they were out but recommended that I try a single malt called, Laphroaig.

It is very different from the norm, very strong smoky aroma, with a very strong heather and peat taste. At the end you are greeted by a very smooth oak and a burst of fireworks that goes straight to the top of your head. Very unique. It is only aged 10 years, and almost tastes a bit immature, I think it would be even better after 12, 18 , or 25 years.

Last year, when demolishing an old house I found a bottle of Glenlivet that was old enough not to have a bar code on the label. It was out of this world, very different from the current batch of Glenlivet, very smooth and flavoursome, unlike anything I have ever tasted before in a single malt. I wish it would have lasted longer.

As for bourbon, I am stuck on Wild Turkey and Makers Mark, tried other labels, but they do not catch my fancy.

An Irish friend introduced me to Tullamore Dew, a blended Irish Whiskey. Quite nice.

I am sitting here at the moment, listening to Boots Randolph pouring his heart out through the sax, and sipping a glass of Scotch, wishing for a warm fire and a good book.

Lynn