It struck me as odd that quite often you spend a sizeable amount of money purchasing a bottle and end up transporting it around in a plastic bag or weathered container. Surely this wasn’t a fitting carriage for what might be a very special bottle or moment?
To date I haven’t done any whisky tastings but one day that may change when time allows. I seem to have accumulated a great deal of interesting whisky that deserves to be shared. Whether it’s at another venue or home such bottles warrant a suitable display or venue.
Initially I had debated a whisky plinth and contacted Frazer at FAR Cabinet makers, as I was very impressed with his work. The added incentive was my desire to commission a local craftsman and use Scottish materials wherever possible. Some discussions ensued and then in the New Year I decided to go beyond the plinth and green light something grand and special. An item that will provide enjoyment and satisfaction way beyond my lifespan.
When you’re working with craftsmen I find it easier to provide minimal guidance and then just let them get on with what they do best, without chasing or interference. Frazer had his eye on some Scottish quarter sawn oak for the project and also suggested the internal copper finishes along with the mirrors. We wanted to keep the look clean and simple; let the wood be the star without any inner fabrics, as much as I love Harris Tweed and ANTA materials this wasn’t the place for them.
The display cabinet is a wooden puzzle box, as you can view here, with the doors opening out and becoming extensions of the main storage area. The left hand side offers 6 precut spaces for my growing collection of Glencairn glasses. Above this area sits a divided space for any whisky accoutrements which could be Angels’ Share glass lids, pippets and my tasting notes.
The other door plays host to a larger space that can contain a water jug and any relevant literature for those moments when you’ve lost that important piece of information. It does happen and the doors are secured in place by 2 locks with the lid encasing the whole upper circumference.
