at journeys end

Four and a half hours on Greek roads from Volos to Athens; an aborted takeoff followed by the pilot saying lets try it again and see if we get the same warning light; Terminal 5 (it has a persona now and it is from the dark side of the force) disgorging my bag, but taking a wheel in the process just to let me know who’se boss; twenty minutes to get out of the hire car lot; three sets of road works and one diversion later I finally get home. My refuge at the end of this: a large glass of Penderyn. A newish venture and a wonderful malt whisky, strongly recommended to anyone who appreciates the water of life. If you want to argue the case, then do it with the Viet-Gwent, pictured left.

From the tasting notes: At premium strength (46% vol) Penderyn has an exceptionally balanced taste with an aroma of cream toffee and fleetingly of fresh new heather. Then, as the initial sensations fade, the finishing notes of tropical fruits, raisins and vanilla emerge strongly and are long lasting.