Whisky

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I finally paid a visit to the place to go in Helsinki for whisky, Pikkulintu [Klaavuntie 11], in an unsuspecting east suburban strip mall about 100m from the Puotila metro station. The name means 'little bird' which breaks from the usual naming convention for whisky pubs, much like the naming convention for PC hardware, where as much masculinity and testosterone is placed into the name as the language will allow, e.g. Ye Olde Cocke and Balls. In spite of the delicate name and the suburban location, it earns the reputation for being the best place in Helsinki for whisky lovers since the list of expressions is impressive and even more impressive is the owner/bartender behind the bar who knows his whisky and keeps half of the whisky he has off the list hidden in the back room away from the dilettantes.

We sat at the rail and had a few wee drams, but the two that were the most memorable were new Islay malts. The first was the Bowmore Mariner which is a 15yo dram that has a bit of sherry taste along with the briny, seaweedy Islay taste. The new Ardbeg Uigeadail (pronounced Oog-adal) is heavenly and of the alleged 3 bottles currently in Finland, 2 of them are at Pikkulintu. We tried to order a bottle or 2 from Loch Fyne Whiskies mail order but, sadly, they're currently awaiting a new bottling. Uigeadail is a cask strength smoky Ardbeg that has been aged in sherry and bourbon casks along with a hint of peppery ginger. I really hope that new bottling comes along soon. :)

Is it a sign I've been living in Finland too long when I keep reading Hurricane Jeanne as Hurricane Janne? :)

And, plush toys for those with a medical or sick sense of humour, giant microbes. Clandestina: 5 destinations and 5 photographers per issue has some interesting photos from unusual places around the globe.