Does Rome celebrate the International Whisky Day?
Let’s find out where to taste and buy whisky in Rome.
What to drink in Rome: whisky & co
Italy is a country known throughout the world for being a great producer of wine, which is also the most consumed drink. However, historically Italy produces other alcoholic drinks, some more known than others. Alcohol consumption, however, remains quite low compared to other countries, but is increasing especially in reference to women and young people.
Spirits in Italy
There is, perhaps never been, such a great interest in spirits as now. New distilleries have opened almost everywhere, on all continents. Many are small, almost artisanal companies, others are important production centers. The birth of this constellation of distilleries has undoubtedly been favored by the entry into the field of emerging markets, such as China, India, Brazil and Russia. And the primacy of interest goes to the so-called single malt whisky, that is, produced from a single type of malt.
Light color, clean taste
The older ones will remember the Glen Grant advert, which was all the rage in commercials in the 1980s. Whisky was a real status symbol back then and was presented to the market as a choice of a winning, successful man. Today there are very few whisky adverts on Italian television, while those for beer and gin are much more incisive. Aimed mainly at a young audience.
Do Italians drink whiskey?
Of course, yes, even if the taste for this distillate is more suitable for adult public and inclined to expensive purchases. Because, there is no doubt, it is an expensive product, especially if it comes from a small production and if it is aged. According to the owners of bars, whisky bars and night clubs, few people know anything about whisky. In reality, knowing more about this magical product can be a real journey of the senses.
What is Whiskey?
Let’s start with the basic ingredient: the choice of the basic cereal, which is usually barley. Corn, wheat and rye can also be used. Although, for Scotch whisky, malted barley is used almost exclusively. For American bourbon, produced mainly in Tennessee, corn is used. When rye is used, we are in the world of so-called rye whisky. Then we move on to mashing, fermentation, distillation, blending, filling the barrels, aging, bottling. Sometimes, blending, or the mixing of multiple whiskies.
A simple product, but one that requires a certain sensitivity.
Whisky production follows few phases, that we’ll face another time. Whisky making is not that obvious and requires a certain passion and curiosity. Without a doubt, the best way to enter the world of whisky is to visit the distilleries. Like when visiting a vineyard, the visit to a distillery always opens up a world and is an essential travel experience. But the importance of assimilating some basic tasting techniques must not be overlooked.
How to Taste Whisky: Familiarizaiton Courses to whisky
There are courses on everything, obviously also on whisky. To acquire basic skills and enter, on tiptoe, into a world made of scents and flavours, and slow time. By observing the appearance you can understand a lot about the way it was produced, the wood that was used, the time that has passed. The aroma can awaken lost memories. And then there is the magic of its evolution in the glass, the openness to new emotions, which is also nice to share. An introductory course on whisky can intrigue and even make someone fall in love. Who not infrequently, will perhaps decide to venture into some professional course.
Rome city and whisky
It is certainly not a local product, but it is increasingly popular. Of course, it is not a cheap product, especially if you are looking for quality and uniqueness. The Romans do not use it excessively, however the Capital is not devoid of passionate traders. Some of them are available to share knowledge and information. Others organize real introductory courses.
Whisky bars in Rome: where to taste and buy
Scotch – Viale dei Colli Portuensi. Rome
One of these is Francesco from the Scotch whisky bar, located in Viale dei Colli Portuensi, 165 in the Monteverde Nuovo district (West Rome). A point of reference for thirty years. He organizes courses and themed tasting evenings, in an informal and relaxed environment. The shop boasts a considerable quantity of labels, especially niche ones, and a personal collection – not for sale.
Le Bon Bock – Viale Gianicolense, 249 – Rome
Again in Monteverde Nuovo, on Gianicolense we find one of the best stocked Scottish Pubs. Stefano is a great expert in Scottish whiskies, he doesn’t give courses and doesn’t want distractions. He boasts the primacy of the first whisky bar in Rome with an infinite variety of labels and the service will not always be friendly but, for sure, of an exceptional level.
ORO whisky – Aventine hill Rome
The whisky list is remarkable, it focuses on creativity and scenography. This is a real brand that aims at replication and diffusion.
Jerry Thomas Speakeasy – in the historic center. Rome
This is a charming place, themed to the roaring 20s. So here we are in the world of Bourbon. It is not easy to book, it is more of a nightclub, but certainly charming.
Amateur and professional courses
FIS – Federation of International Sommeliers
If passion prevails over daily commitments, or pushes you to undertake a profession in the field, you can turn to the Italian Sommelier Federation. The headquarters is located inside the Hotel Cavalieri Hilton in Rome, Via Alberto Cadlolo, Balduina district, Monte Mario. They often organize courses led by expert Sommeliers.
AIS – Italian Sommeliers Association
AIS Lazio also organizes professional courses of various levels on spirits and themed events and tastings.
In conclusion: drinking well and consciously, with extreme moderation and without ever driving is a way to enjoy time. A slow time, but quality time.
