5 Whisky-Infused Entrees to Impress Your Valentine

You’ve marked it on the calendar, your partner has saved the date and it is soon going to be upon you. February 14^th is Valentine’s Day— that one official day dedicated to lovers around the world— and you are planning to treat your sweetheart to a home-cooked meal prepared with the greatest care.

As the famous German philologist Max Muller aptly put it, “A flower cannot blossom without sunshine, and man cannot live without love.” So grab this opportunity to show your love how much you cherish them. After all, food is one of life’s most nurturing attributes.

Every detail is important. The lights will be dimmed just low enough, the finest cutlery will be laid out, and strains of soft music will fill the room. But the most important aspect? Why, the food (and drink), of course— each dish in each course, from hors d’oeuvres to dessert. However, we can all agree that the main course takes centre stage. No one knows your partner’s tastes better than you, so when selecting the menu, take your pick from any of these absolutely enticing savoury options. Cater to the hardcore carnivore or the virtuous vegan— the list includes an entree for every preference. What they all have in common? Well, a dash of that golden aphrodisiac we all love— smooth aged whisky. Perfectly fitting for the occasion!

Irish Steak with Irish Whiskey

Nothings beats a fine, juicy cut of steak, cooked to perfection. Take your Irish steak to the next level and make it truly worthy for Valentine’s Day by adding a generous splash of Irish whiskey. For this, you cannot go wrong with Jameson Irish whiskey.

Price: Rs. 2,000-3,000
Availability: Asia, Europe, North America,

Whisky Lentil Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

If either of you have sworn off meat, take heart. This Shepherd’s Pie is not only vegan— packed with a filling, well-seasoned mash of vegetables including potato and carrot, it is spiked with whisky. For a shot of warmth, 100 Pipers whisky is a splendid whisky of choice.

Price: Rs. 1,500-2,000
Availability: Asia, Europe

Garlic Herb Seared Scallops with Whisky Cream

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. Make sure to use freshly caught scallops. Then season lightly, marinate and cook them in a flavourful sauce of whisky and cream. Voila! You have a sophisticated dish fit for a king. For the sauce, use a mild whisky like Blenders Pride to avoid overpowering the taste of the scallops.

Price: Rs. 800-1,500
Availability: Asia

Whisky Salmon

No doubt, a rich oily salmon makes for a delicious meal by itself. In honour of the occasion however, a simple way to further elevate its flavours and make it even more special, is to infuse the jus with a couple tablespoons of peaty Scotch whisky. Aberlour whisky works like a charm, its smoky notes balancing the fattiness of the fish in a marvelous marriage of flavours.

Price: Rs. 2,500-4,500
Availability: Europe, Asia

Maple Whisky Chicken with Bacon

Skip this one if the both of you are health junkies because this one is a dish most decadent— succulent chicken wings slathered in the most mouthwatering sauce of maple and whisky, and fried with bacon. Yes, bacon. While this dish is guaranteed to be a hit for both of your taste buds and will transport you to heaven, we advise you not to think about the calories. Meat, sweet, salt and whisky— the ultimate combination to culminate in one dish. Feel free to use the juicier cuts of thigh, and whichever whisky you may prefer. Royal Stag whisky is a simple, hassle-free option..

Price: Rs. 500-1,000
Availability: Asia

Here is wishing you and your loved ones a joyous Valentine’s!

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The world's most remote whisky distilleries

Whisky distilleries are located in several parts of the world. While most distilleries are easy to access with tourist parking as well, there are a handful of these distilleries, which take a step off the traditional tourist-friendly zone.

Bakery Hill Distillery, Australia

Having been constantly told over the years that no other place in the world can produce as good single malt whiskies as Scotland, David Baker, a former food scientist, was irked so much, that he began distilling whisky from 1999. He thought if one could understand the process of whisky making at a molecular level, it might be possible to replicate some of the best single malts from Scotland. With that in mind, he followed the traditional procedures which have been practiced for centuries now, and acquired equipment from some of the leading engineering firms from UK. Since he believes that the most important part of the distillery is the still, and that every dimension in the still influences the flavor, aroma, and the character of the whisky, he took great effort in designing the stills. That is how Bakery Hill distillery was born in Victoria, Australia.