One of my few regrets is that I was unable to write a column on single malt Scotch Whiskies before I left CityLife. I just found out that McMenamins is celebrating the new year (and these cold, winter nights) with three opportunities to taste these five fine offerings:

Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban
Glenfiddich 15 Year Solera Reserve
Isla of Jura 10 Year
Glendronach 10 Year
Laphroaig 10 Year
I adore oaky liquors and Laphroaig is one of my favorites. I love the pungent peat and the lingering smokiness of the smokiest Scotch around.

They are also serving these hearty appetizers:
Fivespice mini buffalo burgers with dried cherry compote
Lemongrass salad rolls
Scallop cakes with miso
Mandarin duck pancakes
Cardamom-spiced orange rice pudding parfait with caramel crème

Thu., Jan. 8 – Grand Lodge, Forest Grove
Wed., Jan. 14 – Kennedy School, Portland
Fri., Jan. 16 – Hotel Oregon, McMinnville
7 pm; $45, reservations required; 21+.

If I can scrape up the scratch, I’m so there!