The Macallan and Lalique: $460K for Charity:Water

I popped by Southeby's for a glimpse (wish it was a taste) of a rare single malt Macallan that was being auctioned off to benefit one of my favorite charities. The Macallan and Lalique set a record for a bottle of whisky sold at auction, with all proceeds going to charity: water, an organization that provides access to clean, safe drinking water to people in developing nations. The Macallan 64 Year Old in Lalique: Cire Perdue sold for $460,000. It's one of the most unique collaborations to date between The Macallan and Lalique, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting Scott Harrison's (founder) non-profit. Lalique’s bespoke, one-of-a kind crystal decanter, created using the “cire perdue” or “lost wax” method, houses the oldest and rarest Macallan ever bottled by the distillery, a 64-year-old single malt whisky. It's been on a 12-city “tour du monde” since April, and each stop along the way has raised funds and awareness for charity: water.

Whisk(e)y – American, Canadian and Japanese

Jack Daniels Old Tennessee Whiskey sets itself apart thanks to the charcoal mellowing process used during distillation and the proprietary barrels used to mature the spirit. The classic spirit is smooth and easy on the palate. No wonder it’s synomous with American, albeit Southern, culture – it’s the never ending crowd pleaser. Although the spirit is distilled in Canada, Canadian Club whisky was one of Al Capone’s favorite indulgences. During Prohibition, Capone funded the building of a tower in Canada that was used to signal when he could safely cross the Detroit River to pick-up bottles Canadian Club. Now, it’s the only Canadian whisky that’s pre-barrel blended before aging to allow the flavors to marry resulting in an exceptionally smooth and mellow spirit. Japan is making its mark with Suntory’s Yamazaki single malt whisky (12 and 18 yrs) and Hibiki (12 yrs) – two expressions that are popping up in some of Chicago’s most stylish cocktail bars. Whether it’s served neat, on the rocks or in intricate cocktails, whiskey lovers have come to enjoy the newcomers from Japan. When searching for the perfect nightcap, opt for the Yamazaki 18 year old as it complements chocolate dessert and has notes of toffee, honey and butter cream.

Best places in Chicago for Whisk(e)y:
• Sunda and Bar DeVille for both Yamazaki expressions - 12 yr old and 18 yr old
• The Gage for the Finish Line, made with Russell's Reserve 6 yr rye whiskey, spiced simple syrup and Dogfish Head Punkin Ale
• Delilah’s continues to offer the most robust whiskey selections in the city
• Fountainhead offers over 100 bourbons, Canadian, Irish and American whiskies.