FESTIVE SEASON SPIRITS

Whisky is the go-go

Metropol writer Nicholas Henare enjoys a wee dram, especially on special occasions. Here are his picks from the wide selection at Big Daddy’s Liquor.

Scotland boasts fi ve main areas of whisky distillation, Speyside, Lowland, Highland, Campbeltown, and Islay. Each one has its own very distinct fl avour.

Growing up, I used to hook into grandad’s liquor cabinet, like most inquisitive children who are told not to touch that. Grandad liked peaty/ smokey whisky. I did not.

It wasn’t until I’d matured a bit myself that I discovered that I’m a Glenmorangie man, Macallan if somebody is buying it for me.

This month’s specials cover most people’s tastes.

Enjoy and Happy New Year.

Big Daddy’s Stores

Blenheim Road 03 343 1523 280 Blenheim Rd, Brougham Street 03 366 5737 151 Waltham Road, Eastgate 03 381 3660 227 Linwood Ave, Shirley 03 386 0528 205 Hills Road, Parklands 03 383 2478 60 Queenspark Drive, Hillmorton 03 338 7733 7 Halswell Road, Rangiora 03 310 8200 28 High Street,

Johnnie Walker Blue

Having fi rst tried this while interviewing French chef Manu Feidel, I was blown away by how fantastic a simple whisky shared with someone can be. This is top range from the world’s biggest whisky distiller. It earns its place and is worth the price. 1.75 litre $699.99

Hennessy VSOP Cognac

In the late 1990s, I kept wondering what this ‘Hennessy’ was rappers kept singing about. It turned out to be cognac from Default Region, France. The iconic Hennessy distillery was founded in 1765. Created by generations of expertise, the VSOP is a perfect assemblage of vibrant power.

1 litre $149.99

Glenmorangie ‘The Cadboll’

Dessert-like fl avours set the scene, evocative of the taste of sweet wines. Matured in superior French barriques which previously held wines such as muscat and semillon grapes, the resultant whisky is a delectably rich single malt. 1 litre $159.99

Glen Elgin 12yrs Old

This great little distillery in Speyside is delivering fruitcake in a bottle. A special wee Christmas dram or two to fi nish the year, it is dry and well balanced with sweet wood fl avours.

700ml $89.99

Glenfarclas

Matured in 100 percent Oloroso sherry casks, this has fl avours of fresh and beautifully light sherried fruit, combined with a spicy sweetness and a hint of sappy oak. Full-bodied, it is fl avoursome with a long, spicy fi nish.

In your kitchen

TWISTED FLOUR & SUGAR MERCHANTS

For all of your celebrations at work and home, contact us to order our fabulous array of Grazing Boxes or Grazing Tables.

info@twistedflour.kiwi Ph Kate: 027 2459043

MELTON ESTATE

Visit Melton Estate in West Melton for a wonderful winery restaurant experience. We also host family celebrations and corporate events. Visit our Cellar Door in West Melton or shop online. Open Thursday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. Cnr Weedons Ross & Johnson Rds West Melton Ph 03 347 4968 www.meltonestate.co.nz

GATEHOUSE CAFÉ

At Gatehouse Café we have a large variety of keto options here on the outskirts of Christchurch. Bring the kids or dogs down to our park like surroundings and enjoy a delightful meal while relaxing away from the busy city life.

185a Kirk Road, Templeton Ph 03 344 2052 www.gatehousecafe.co.nz

CRISP CAFE

Low Carb, Keto and Diabetic all day menu and cabinet food that changes daily including a variety of slices, cakes and cheesecakes. Check out our extensive range which is added to monthly either instore or on our website. We are the one stop shop for all of your specialty dietary requirements. 376 Ilam Rd, Ph: 03 351 4414 www.crispcafe.co.nz

Thank you for supporting local this year and treating your tastebuds along the way. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas

and a Happy New Year

MRS DENTONSMRS DENTONS

Come and treat yourself to a scrumptious scallop pie or maybe an Italian eggplant Come and treat yourself to a scrumptious pie! Fairlie Bakehouse pies in store too. scallop pie or maybe an Italian Fine. Food. Fast. Takeaway Cafe and Delicatessen eggplant pie! Fairlie Bakehouse pies Mon-Fri 8.30am-2.30pm in store too. Fine. Food. Fast. Takeaway Cafe and Delicatessen. Mon-Fri 8.30am-2.30pm 168a Kendal Ave, BurnsidePh. 03 357 4516 027 469 0206 Ph: 03 357 4516 or 027 469 0206 168a Kendal Ave, Burnside

VINEYARD VALLEY FOOD CART

Outstandingly delicious cuisine handmade daily on-site and fresh to you! Guaranteed the best by Chef Barb. Pies, sausage rolls, sandwiches, scones, sweets. Full range of barista coffees. Friday night fish & chips 5-7.30pm. Easy access situated by the gas station. Open 5am to 2pm Monday to Friday. Waipara Junction Ph: 021 0906 5268

GATEWOOD MARKET

Hand crafted, artisan and NZ made products including home and garden decor, plants, furniture, clothing and accessories for all ages, arts and crafts, jewellery, beauty products, pet care, giftware, gourmet food, games and more. Child and dog friendly. Next market date: 19 December 10am-2pm.

FOUR SQUARE SUPERMARKET HANMER

Our generous and delectable grazing platters are now complemented by our range of Birthday Cakes, Sandwich platters and gourmet salads. Book your platters now for the Christmas/New Year season. Don’t miss out! Call us today!