Whisky connoisseurs from France, Scotland, USA, Monaco and Malta met at the Meridian Hotel in St Julian’s on 28 April to participate in an inaugural Gala Evening and Ceremony of the Whisky Connoisseurs of Malta, Friends of the Quaich. Also attending were members from the Brotherhood of Scotch Whisky Tasters which has been established for more than 40 years. The Savoie Mont-Blanc, based in Evian were also present.

A special appearance at this year’s event was of Jim Murray the author of the world renowned Whisky Bible and conducted the whisky tasting, in addition to explaining the best and most enjoyable way to really taste the amber nectar.

The formation of The Whisky Connoisseurs of Malta, Friends of the Quaich, was developed to bring together an alliance of like minded people who wish to share with others friendship, gastronomy and enjoy the pleasures of first class whiskies.

The Quaich, Scotland’s cup of friendship, has been used through the centuries to offer a welcoming drink at clan gatherings, and other family occasions, and to friends and visitors. Quaich is a Scots rendering of the Gaelic word cuach, meaning cup. The two-handed design of this drinking vessel incorporates trust, on the part of both giver and receiver.

On 28 April at the Le Meridien Hotel, St Julian’s, 10 new Chevaliers were invested. Glenmorangie sponsored the event this year and will continue to sponsor this event for the foreseeable future. As a special guest Mr Colin Campbell, Chairman of Glenmorangie and his wife Mrs Fiona Campbell attended the evening, and both were very impressed with the enthusiastic reception that Glenmorangie had from the whisky connoisseurs attending. As part of the tasting event, Ardbeg, also represented by M. Demajo (Wines & Spirits) Limited, was tasted and experienced enthusiastically, by everyone participating.

The Whisky Connoisseurs Scottish Piper Band of Malta, an eight piece piper band under the auspicious direction of Police Sgt and Pipe Major Kevin Vella, accompanied the ceremonies and played throughout the evening to the delight of the patrons attending.