San Francisco Scotch Tasting

posted January 22, 2011 2:10 AM | |

Sat February 5 at 7:00 PM, aubilenon's house

72 Lansing St, San Francisco, CA, USA (Map & Directions)

I'll gladly volunteer my house for this worthy cause if anyone wants to come down to Santa Cruz.

Actually, I could see this being pretty awesome if we could get a bus or something.
posted by sambosambo at 7:12 AM on January 22, 2011

I'd love to invite some mefites into my home, which ought to be big enough (seating for ~15). I don't really know scotch, but this is my chance to try 20+ varieties for free.

We could do hors d'oeuvres/snacky-snacks in a low-pressure potluck style (i.e., bring something if you wanna), and then order in if we need more.

(I also would love to mix up some tasty non-scotch drinks for folks who want them.)

I live on Lansing St (off Harrison near 1st). When would you want to do this?
posted by aubilenon at 7:12 AM on January 22, 2011

Oh, we are so there! And we will happily bring food, and if additional whiskies are needed, we can probably help with that, too!
posted by rtha at 7:17 AM on January 22, 2011

Lansing St looks good, transit-wise (10-15 min walk to BART).

I'm open to pretty much whenever, but other people might prefer a day not followed by a work day. What's the usual lead time for meetups?
posted by ryanrs at 7:29 AM on January 22, 2011

Looking at recent events, it seems like 2-6 weeks is the standard amount of advance warning. I'm an eager beaver*, so I'll suggest Saturday, Feb 5.

The address is 72 Lansing.

* [NOT BEAVERIST]
posted by aubilenon at 7:45 AM on January 22, 2011

If people have favorite whiskies or unusual whiskies that they would like to share, by all means, bring them. But don't feel obligated. We are not going to run out.

On preview: Six weeks? Only alcoholic project managers plan their boozing that far in advance. Feb 5 sounds good to me.
posted by ryanrs at 8:02 AM on January 22, 2011

I got nothing on the calendar for that day, and so I think we're both in.

Also, I think you mean a 10-15 minute stagger to BART.

Woo!
posted by rtha at 8:15 AM on January 22, 2011

Hot damn! I am so there.
posted by asterix at 10:25 AM on January 22, 2011

What an awesome idea! The 5th sounds good to me too.
posted by zachlipton at 12:46 PM on January 22, 2011

fuck yeah.
posted by special-k at 5:33 PM on January 22, 2011 [1 favorite]

Awesome. I'm in!

MetaFilter: alcoholic project managers
(Couldn't stop myself.)
posted by spitefulcrow at 9:12 PM on January 22, 2011

On review: Lansing and Harrison is like 10 minutes from my office. So sad that this couldn't be on a weekday.
posted by spitefulcrow at 9:13 PM on January 22, 2011

What time should we start? Is this an evening thing, or an afternoon+evening thing?
posted by ryanrs at 10:03 PM on January 22, 2011

List of scotches [google doc]

Just in case people get the urge to coordinate.
posted by ryanrs at 10:18 PM on January 22, 2011

I'm leaning towards just evening, only because it means avoiding having to figure out group dinner plans. That needs more planning than I want to do. So let's say 7:00 until late.
posted by aubilenon at 10:26 PM on January 22, 2011

I've confirmed the meetup.
posted by ryanrs at 10:48 PM on January 22, 2011

Great! Me and my roommates will be there. :D
posted by aubilenon at 10:56 PM on January 22, 2011

Regarding Attendance Numbers

About a week before the event, I'm going to check the attendance poll at the top of this thread and order for a suitable number of whisky glasses. Therefore it would be ideal if people indicated their interest sooner rather than later. Adding your name to the list on Feb 2 is less helpful (although I will likely make a second, last-minute shopping run).

Update: I found a local store that keeps a large number of tasting glasses in stock. So although I'll still need accurate attendance figures, I won't need them until the morning of the event.

Why special glasses?

Anyone hoping to taste all the scotches on hand will need to exercise great restraint when pouring. At most tasting events, the standard pour is 1/4 fl oz. Such a small volume of whisky is very difficult to smell in a tumbler. It is better to use a glass with a narrow mouth, as this will help retain the various volatile compounds given off by the whisky. To this end, I plan to supply either sherry copitas or Glencairn whisky glasses.

Note: small pours are only suggested for those guests who prefer not to get completely shitfaced. The rest of you are welcome to pour as much as you like, although for the comfort of others in attendance, we ask that you not chug directly from the bottle.
posted by ryanrs at 3:18 AM on January 23, 2011 [2 favorites]

We've got some tasting glasses and will be happy to bring them. And now I will remember to scroll up and hit the "yes!" button.
posted by rtha at 7:49 AM on January 23, 2011

And before I forget, we'll also bring some cheese and charcuterie and some bread/crackers, and I'll try to remember to being some index cards so people can take tasting notes, if they like.
posted by rtha at 11:00 AM on January 23, 2011

My work situation is, as always, completely not up to me. But I want to be there if I can.
posted by mollymayhem at 11:03 AM on January 23, 2011

Holy SHIT

You had me at "free scotch"

Is there a reason or a backstory to why you're doing this?

Sir I salute you
posted by danny the boy at 11:11 AM on January 23, 2011

danny, see here.
posted by rtha at 12:12 PM on January 23, 2011

A meetup with a spreadsheet is a great thing. A meetup with a spreadsheet OF SCOTCH is an awesome thing.

Also, our collection has a mysterious Bowmore hole, which we will address before the meetup.
posted by gingerbeer at 1:26 PM on January 23, 2011 [3 favorites]

Yes, although there was a bit more thought put into it than that comment would suggest. At a basic level, this meetup is a consequence of the standard retail packaging of scotch whisky. Because scotch is universally sold in 750ml bottles, a tasting of 20 varieties costs the same whether you're serving one person or fifty.

This meetup is only one of several events planned around the scotch surplus. The following weekend I'll be doing another tasting with a different group of friends. The idea is to amortized the cost of the whisky over a number of different occasions.

Similar thinking applies to the glassware. Although it might sound like I'm buying a bunch of glasses just for this one meetup, that isn't really the case.
posted by ryanrs at 1:33 PM on January 23, 2011

Can't imagine a better first meet-up!!
posted by maya at 6:44 PM on January 23, 2011

!
posted by finite at 9:42 PM on January 23, 2011

As of this moment, the whiskies outnumber the guests by 2:1. By the time February 5 rolls around, we will probably have enough scotch on hand to kill everyone at the meetup.

Highland
Old Pulteney 12
Dalmore 12
Macallan 12
Glenfiddich 18

Speyside
Balvenie 12 Double Wood
Balvenie 15 Single Barrel
Balvenie 17 Madeira Cask
Balvenie 21 Port Wood
The Glenlivet 12
The Glenlivet 15 French Oak
The Glenlivet 16 Nadurra Cask Strength
The Glenlivet 18

Isle of Orkney
Highland Park 8 (MacPhail's Collection)
Highland Park 12

Isle of Skye
Talisker 10
Talisker 18

West Highland
Oban 14

Islay
Lagavulin 16
Laphroaig 10
Laphroaig 18
Bruichladdich 12
Bruichladdich cask strength (13)
Bruichladdich Organic 2003
Bruichladdich Octomore
Port Charlotte PC6
Ardbeg 10
Kilchoman cask strength (The Whisky Shop)

Jura
Jura 10

World
Yamazaki 18

If you're planning to bring more(!) whiskies to share at the meetup, add them to our List of Scotches [google doc].
posted by ryanrs at 6:00 AM on January 24, 2011 [2 favorites]

By the time February 5 rolls around, we will probably have enough scotch on hand to kill everyone at the meetup.

I'd hate for all you guys to die so I guess I'll come! I am super excited about this.
posted by grapesaresour at 1:12 PM on January 24, 2011

Man oh man, Pirate-Bartender-Zombie-Monkey and I would love to come, but we won't know whether he's working until Tuesday the 1st.
posted by Lexica at 6:23 PM on January 24, 2011

It turns out that I don't need to know the attendance figures that far in advance. I found a local store that keeps a ton of tasting glasses in stock, so I can pick up whatever I need on the day of the event. Just mark yourself down sometime before Feb 5 and I'll be sure to have enough.
posted by ryanrs at 6:56 PM on January 24, 2011

Seeing as how I sport scars* on three of my knuckles thanks to four bottles of Laphroaig 15, I hope to make it as well!

*Acquired saving the booze after tripping/falling while crossing the street. (And I hadn't even sampled any yet!) I emerged bloody but victorious.
posted by hapax_legomenon at 7:11 PM on January 24, 2011 [1 favorite]

I'm in! Delicious, and lethal, just like...well, not me. However, I would like to bring some eats -- haven't figured out what yet, but it may involve smoked salmon and creem freesh.

(Creme fraiche, for those of you who don't watch South Park).
posted by superquail at 7:42 PM on January 24, 2011 [3 favorites]

/me seriously ponders a plane or train ticket to SF.
posted by loquacious at 8:13 PM on January 24, 2011 [1 favorite]

I added a few more bottles I'd like to bring. Thanks everyone!
posted by wzcx at 10:29 PM on January 24, 2011

Haha, this is a lot of people. Awesome!
posted by aubilenon at 11:34 PM on January 24, 2011 [1 favorite]

If all the fancy food isn't going to be offended, I'd love to bring some homemade salsa to share!
posted by frognuts at 12:12 AM on January 25, 2011

Dude, homemade salsa *is* fancy! Even if it weren't, we would still eat it all up.
posted by rtha at 9:30 AM on January 25, 2011

Beautiful idea. Fantastic - I'm so there. I think I have a book about whiskey tasting to bring along...also we can always do a BYO glass thing to do the eco-friendly option.

I will try and bring some food to counterbalance the alcohol poisoning - something to go with the whiskey, maybe Scottish deserts? (http://www.rampantscotland.com/recipes/blrecipe_index.htm?) A Hogmanay (http://ezinearticles.com/?Hogmanay-Syllabub---A-True-Scottish-Dessert&id=2994513) if someone can spare a wee 4 tablespoons ;)
posted by rmm at 1:28 PM on January 25, 2011

I've never attended a meet-up and am new to the Bay Area. I'm not sure if I can attend or not yet, but mark me a "maybe".
posted by 2bucksplus at 1:55 PM on January 25, 2011

Mark yourself as a maybe! (on the right sidebar)
posted by aubilenon at 3:19 PM on January 25, 2011

This will be the best introduction to Bay Area mefites, as it will (probably) not be *quite* as loud as it often is in the bars we meet in, but we will still be tipsy!
posted by rtha at 3:25 PM on January 25, 2011

25 people confirmed attending. aubilenon, is there a maximum number of people your place can hold comfortably? I'm in (and my spouse) if there's still room. If not, best wishes for what promises to be an awesome party!
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 3:49 PM on January 25, 2011

cybercoitus interruptus: I don't know what size party my place can accommodate; come help find out!

If it looks like there's gonna be more than 35 I'll move some furniture beforehand. :D
posted by aubilenon at 4:19 PM on January 25, 2011

We can always make in BYOC. Bring your own chair.
posted by gingerbeer at 5:01 PM on January 25, 2011

yeah, folding chairs welcome!
posted by aubilenon at 5:06 PM on January 25, 2011

Ugh, just realized that I have some friends staying with me during this time.

EXTREME DISAPPOINTMENT.

No creem freesh or delicious delicious scotch for me :(
posted by superquail at 5:11 PM on January 25, 2011

I have one folding chair for sure. Will bring a raw veggie plate (I love bringing strange and bewildering produce back from the farmers' market) with a couple of vegan-friendly dips.
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 5:45 PM on January 25, 2011

So I'm going to be arriving earlier that week in my gigantic cross country move from Philadelphia (I will miss Philly MeFites!)... and I can see I'm going to love San Francisco already.

And a Google Doc of Scotch? That's just awesome.
posted by polexa at 5:51 AM on January 26, 2011 [1 favorite]

Oh GODS do I ever wish I lived in San Fran. Stupid South.
posted by Devika at 9:24 AM on January 26, 2011

Mefites, you are all awesome. I recently discovered the joys of Scotch (thanks asterix!) and shall join you unless prevented by an act of god. Is there any particular type of dessert that complements Scotch? I could make and bring that.
posted by chatongriffes at 10:16 AM on January 26, 2011 [1 favorite]

And a Google Doc of Scotch? That's just awesome.

The spreadsheet is nice, but what we really need is a web app. Maybe something combining a tasting notes log with a recommendation engine?

Based on your tasting notes:
You might like _____, _____, _____.
But not _____, _____.
You haven't tried anything like _____, _____.

Some interesting links:
Whisky tasting wheel.
Whisky flavor map.
Clustering Scotch Whiskies using Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (with dataset).
posted by ryanrs at 12:09 PM on January 26, 2011 [1 favorite]

Is there any particular type of dessert that complements Scotch? I could make and bring that.

Athol brose!
posted by Lexica at 1:46 PM on January 26, 2011

GOOD BABBLING JUDAS!

I am a tremendous fan of Scotch*, also a decent cook, don't get out to meet-ups nearly enough, live relatively close to aubilenon, but will be in LA** for my brother-in-law's birthday on the 5th! I cannot think of a meet-up I'd be more excited to attend. Shit.

*Perhaps too much so.
**A city which I do not enjoy.
posted by Pecinpah at 3:14 PM on January 26, 2011

Pecinpah - dammit!
posted by rtha at 3:46 PM on January 26, 2011

The data from the clustering paper (see my previous comment) is from a book associated with WhiskyClassified.com [but see warning below].

Warning: WhiskyClassified.com includes several links to www.clustan.com, which may install malware without user consent. For details, see Google Safe Browsing report.

The dataset used in the clustering paper identifies whisky samples only by distillery, not by expression (e.g. specific name and age). However the WhiskyClassified.com website has more specific information for 8 of the 86 samples:
Aberlour
Auchentoshan
Bladnoch
Bunnahabhain
Glenallachie
Glenfarclas
Laphroaig
Loch Lomond

WhiskyClassified.com also discusses clustering whiskies by flavor [same warning]. That page includes further information on how the 86 samples were chosen and how the data was collected (compiled from several whisky guides). Also presented is a clustering of the 86 whiskies into 10 classifications based on the data.

I dumped the full dataset and cluster information into another spreadsheet and generated some pretty Charts and Graphs.
posted by ryanrs at 7:07 PM on January 26, 2011 [6 favorites]

Oh my goodness, yes. Yes, I can do this. This sounds awesome. I will attempt to bring the Mr., even though he doesn't like Scotch (he may bring some fancy-pants beer to not feel totally left out).
posted by deludingmyself at 9:42 AM on January 27, 2011

I will also see about bringing some food. Possibly something smoky to go with the Scotch. Sausages on toothpicks and good mustard, if nothing else.
posted by deludingmyself at 9:48 AM on January 27, 2011

Oh my gosh, this is about to become an EPIC meetup, I can't wait!! I'll also try to bring some food.
posted by jasper411 at 4:50 PM on January 27, 2011

Oh, hell yeah. Thanks ryanrs & aubilenon!
posted by MikeKD at 5:03 PM on January 27, 2011

OMG. There are charts and graphs now! This just keeps getting better!
posted by grapesaresour at 5:46 PM on January 27, 2011

I don't know either scotch or mefites, so obviously I need to rectify such gaps. I am totally in!

Is there anyone going up from the peninsula who might want to carpool (or trainpool, though more for company I guess)? I'm in Menlo Park.
posted by marylynn at 10:43 AM on January 28, 2011

FYI, the meetup is fairly close to 4th & King. One mile and up a small hill. Maybe a bit over 20 minutes walking.

There is a train arriving in SF at 6:36pm which will get you to the party precisely on time. If you're starting from the Palo Alto station, you can save 30 minutes by catching the weekend Baby Bullet. Return trains depart from 4th & King at 10:15pm and 12:01am.
posted by ryanrs at 8:55 AM on January 29, 2011

What a neat idea! I'm with Marylynn, knowing neither mefites nor scotch, but this sounds like a perfect opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. I'm in!
posted by paddingtonb at 9:02 AM on January 29, 2011

ain't never met another MeFi'r.
met very few Scotches I didn't like.
hoping to be able to make this opportunity to enjoy both
posted by armoir from antproof case at 9:42 PM on January 29, 2011

Holy smokes, we are 40 plus 20 maybes! Is this normal for San Francisco meetups?
posted by polexa at 8:49 PM on January 30, 2011

polexa: no, maybe fifteen to twenty is more usual. But let's just say this is normal for SF meetups with free scotch. As far as we know it might be, because we've never had one before.
posted by madcaptenor at 9:35 PM on January 30, 2011

Okay, I'm in. I'll stop by K&L some time this week so I can add to the fun & mischief.
posted by Afroblanco at 11:56 PM on January 30, 2011

Polexa: This is looking to be larger than any meetup I've been to.

After I move some stuff around (e.g., I don't need bookcases or bike racks in the kitchen during this) I my house can accommodate around 50 people. I don't expect 100% turnout from Yeses, so we should still be fine (plus not everyone will necessarily be here simultaneously). Not everyone will get to sit down all the time, but that's standard for house parties. It is looking like it will be full enough that more furniture will make things worse rather than better, so folding chairs are not as welcome as they were earlier! Though as they fold, we can always just stow them if they're not needed.

I have plenty of room for scotch and snacks though, so people should still bring those! :D
posted by aubilenon at 2:02 AM on January 31, 2011

I'm fine sitting on the floor with a shot glass and a beer. In a respectable manner, of course.
posted by MillMan at 10:27 AM on January 31, 2011

This is looking to be larger than any meetup I've been to.

I know! We haven't even told people about the free iPads yet!
posted by ryanrs at 2:59 PM on January 31, 2011 [1 favorite]

I'll be there. I'll see if I can find any interesting Scotch somewhere.
posted by chairface at 3:38 PM on February 1, 2011

Shit! I just saw this. I too am a liquor collector, and have about 40 scotches. I'll check the doc so I can bring something new. I'll tell my wife about the free iPads so she'll be interested in attending.

I'll make a batch of shortbread so the buttery goodness will protect our precious stomach linings.
posted by benzenedream at 4:08 PM on February 1, 2011

I've found that a little bit of ice cream and a glass of scotch is a great way to end certain evenings. Vanila sure, but coffee, which you'd think would be too strong and competitive of a flavor actually works out nicely with the smokier, peatier malts.

So maybe I'll bring some ice cream?
posted by danny the boy at 11:53 AM on February 2, 2011

Oh man, it's been nearly a year since I made it out to a meetup. I'm in too. I promise to fold up as efficiently as possible to save space.
posted by tangerine at 1:04 PM on February 2, 2011

And I'm an idiot for not paying attention earlier -- here I am popping in on the specified "less helpful" date. Désolée.
posted by tangerine at 1:11 PM on February 2, 2011

Also: marylynn and everyone else coming from the peninsula: I think it would be festive for as many of us as possible to take that train together. (And stumble happily back to the station afterwards, optionally singing Scottish ballads.)
posted by tangerine at 1:21 PM on February 2, 2011 [1 favorite]

Tangerine, that would be fun - drinking on the Caltrain (or rather, meeting on the train to go to drink) would be kinda fun. SantaCon without the Santas.

Which car would people meet in - the last one? Someone should make a sign maybe.

*cripes, wondering what food to make... will pour over dessert choices tonight...*
posted by rmm at 4:35 PM on February 2, 2011

I'm in!
I have no idea who you guys are, but I love you all the same and look forward to meeting MeFi doods and doodettes!

Now, can anyone recommend a liquor store near SFMOMA for me to bring summin to the shindig? I'll be staying in a hotel very nearby.
posted by herrdoktor at 5:19 PM on February 2, 2011

Dok: "The Whisky Shop" at 360 sutter st, just a block from Union Square.
posted by wzcx at 5:36 PM on February 2, 2011

K&L Wines (at 4th south of Brannan) also has a fine selection of scotch.
posted by asterix at 5:59 PM on February 2, 2011 [1 favorite]

Excellent, had just recently got a recommendation for the Whisky Shop.
The +1 guest may or may not show. I'm definitely going.
posted by herrdoktor at 6:24 PM on February 2, 2011

The Whisky Shop looks like a ridiculous tourist trap, but they're really great. They have an incredible selection of scotch and their prices are no higher than BevMo. I was very surprised about the pricing.
posted by ryanrs at 6:51 PM on February 2, 2011

In carrying with the smokey theme, I picked up some lapsang souchong tea. Best bring your own mug though.
posted by ryanrs at 6:54 PM on February 2, 2011

Just so people know, we're not short on scotch. I will be shocked if we consume even a quarter of what we have on hand. Seriously, we have over seven gallons of whisky.

Food is far more important at this point. I will have some basic, filling food on hand. But it'd be great if people bought a variety of things to share. Don't worry about bringing enough for 70 people. That's a lot of work and people aren't going to try every dish anyway.

...oh crap, what about plates and utensils. Aubilenon, do you have 70 forks?
posted by ryanrs at 7:08 PM on February 2, 2011

ryanrs: there exist plastic forks.
posted by madcaptenor at 7:41 PM on February 2, 2011

Yeah, I know. At this point they're a necessary evil, I think. I can supply that stuff. Counting on the rest of you for snacks.

Eat dinner before you arrive. This was mentioned upthread, but it bears repeating. We're not planning to serve full meals to 70+ people. It'll be more like a potluck snackathon.
posted by ryanrs at 8:02 PM on February 2, 2011

I am sorry for adding my name to the guest list so late. I saw this a while back and thought I had something going on on the 5th but it's actually tomorrow. Thank you so much Aubilenon.
posted by MattMangels at 8:25 PM on February 2, 2011

Is this the most-attended meetup ever? (Is someone with good data-fu able to check this in some automated way?)
posted by madcaptenor at 9:01 PM on February 2, 2011

This is the most-attended meetup in the IRL archives, according to RSVP status, which is very unreliable. The 9th anniversary meetup in Porland had like 300 people. I don't think I could fit that many in my apartment even with legs and arms and heads sticking out the windows.
posted by aubilenon at 9:14 PM on February 2, 2011

No worries, Matt. At this point, the only constraint is physical space. We're so far over-subscribed, I don't think a few more people will make a difference one way or the other.

Madcaptenor, I think the largest meetup was was the 10th anniversary in NOLA. ColdChef should know the approximate attendance. I bet ours will feel larger though, since they had, like, planning and stuff.
posted by ryanrs at 9:26 PM on February 2, 2011

Ardbeg 10 is like a petrochemical plant in my mouth, but in a good way. I'm surprised the bottle doesn't have a Prop 65 warning.
posted by ryanrs at 10:11 PM on February 2, 2011

I just saw this. I'm in Fresno. I'd love to drive up, but two things:

1) I'm late RSVPing. Would my coming be a hassle?

2) I don't know that I want to drive back that far, late at night, after an event involving alcohol. Is there a nearby sofa I could crash on, and a place for my car? The magic eight ball is telling me I shouldn't be spending money on a hotel room.

So yeah, I'm like the worst guest ever. But if it can be made to work, I'd totally bring chips or something.
posted by jsturgill at 10:22 PM on February 2, 2011

Re RSVP: please try to mark it before Saturday morning. I'll be doing some last-minute shopping that afternoon.

Street parking in SF is generally free on Saturday night and all day Sunday, if you can find a couch.
posted by ryanrs at 10:43 PM on February 2, 2011

I'll bring a few boxes of Nairn's Mini Oatcakes. ("We use only wholegrain oats grown in the nearby Scottish Borders where the climate is perfect for slowly ripening the grains and where our farmers don’t need to use insecticides.")
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 11:18 PM on February 2, 2011

No insecticides? Are they full of bugs? *suspicious stare*
posted by aubilenon at 11:24 PM on February 2, 2011

Extra protein to offset the carbs! Mmmm exoskeletons...

*crunch crunch*
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 12:09 AM on February 3, 2011 [1 favorite]

Let's make it official: peninsula pre-party party train will be #441 which arrives in SF at 6:36pm. So surely our contingent will arrive promptly at 7pm.

The party car will, of course, be the very last one (that's not going to be a bike car is it? I never take the train, I am so clueless!). Perhaps someone further south down the line than me in MP can make a little sign - or wear a MeFi shirt or something - so we can identify each other in ways other than looking scotch-mad?

(FYI, I'm picking the not baby bullet for selfish reasons because then when we come back I won't have to worry about retrieving my car and driving. Also, note to self: set an alarm for 11:30pm so you remember you need to catch at least that last train back!).

I think I have some paper plates, plastic utensils and definitely lots of paper napkins around so I'll bring those - surely they'll come in handy. Also, I think bacon goes with scotch? I'm considering a little bacon jam experiment.
posted by marylynn at 10:56 AM on February 3, 2011

Added EPIC tag.

Waiting until after the event to add AWESOME or DISASTER (maybe both).
posted by ryanrs at 1:16 PM on February 3, 2011

Also, I think bacon goes with scotch? I'm considering a little bacon jam experiment.

You are correct, and YES PLEASE.
posted by rtha at 1:20 PM on February 3, 2011

I'm planning on bringing some stong cheeses and crackers, and maybe some smoked salmon, as a friend of mine found some websites that suggested it is a good thing to have smoked salmon at a scotch tasting.
posted by jasper411 at 4:37 PM on February 3, 2011

When is the latest I could show up on the 5th and not be a party crasher? I'm going to be at a birthday party in Oakland until about 10:30.
posted by JackarypQQ at 9:02 PM on February 3, 2011

I don't have a good sense of how food there will be or really how many of the RSVP'd people will even show up. But I do know that if 1/4 people each bring enough of some food for everyone, then it will be too much. So people bringing food, please be prepared to bring surplus home with you.

JackarypQQ: I can't predict when people will leave, but I'm a night owl, so I'll be up pretty darn late anyway. I would guess things would still be going at 10:30 (not everyone is going to arrive at 7:00 on the dot), but the peninsula people won't be able to stay that much later than that.
posted by aubilenon at 9:19 PM on February 3, 2011

The East Bay people, as well, are unlikely to stay later than midnightish. (Unless anybody's driving, which seems foolish.)
posted by madcaptenor at 10:05 PM on February 3, 2011

Yeah, the last one is usually a bike car, so better make it the one before that one (err, the not- the bike car one). I can try for a sign, and will attempt not to be ashamed by it. :)
posted by rmm at 1:04 PM on February 4, 2011

Train #441 it is. I'll be getting on at Mountain View or maybe San Antonio. I have a funny old-fashioned phone and can't follow the thread once I leave the house, so I'm memailing my number to marylynn & rmm.
posted by tangerine at 1:19 PM on February 4, 2011

How fortuitous, Whisky Galore Day is February 5th
posted by aubilenon at 1:25 PM on February 4, 2011

We're also only a little late for Robert Burns Night. A recitation might be in order.
posted by tangerine at 1:32 PM on February 4, 2011

Yeah, the last one is usually a bike car

The bike car is always at the northern-most end of the train.
posted by ryanrs at 1:48 PM on February 4, 2011

The bike car is always at the northern-most end of the train.

Or to reference the train itself, the car furthest from the engine is the bike car. Sometimes the 2nd car from the engine is also a bike car.
posted by MillMan at 2:07 PM on February 4, 2011

So the engine is always at the southern end, regardless of which way the train is going? (I guess that makes sense since there's not exactly a place to turn around at 4th and King...)
posted by madcaptenor at 2:38 PM on February 4, 2011

Sorry for the Caltrain derail but... are you saying that sometimes the engine pulls and sometimes it pushes the train? MY MIND IS BLOWN. And I haven't even had any scotch!
posted by marylynn at 3:08 PM on February 4, 2011 [1 favorite]

I will also likely be getting on the train at Mountain View. Will try to coordinate with tangerine.
posted by special-k at 3:20 PM on February 4, 2011

It is true. The engines have a reverse gear thingy.
posted by MillMan at 4:05 PM on February 4, 2011

To fully embrace this derail (er, rail derail? re-rail? I don't know), Caltrain is a Push-pull system. Leaving SF, the engineer sits in the locomotive and drives the train. When it's time to come back northbound, the engineer moves to the cab car, which is a special type of car coupled at the northbound end of the train. It has a second driver's compartment and remote controls for the locomotive, along with a window to see out of.

(an old friend of mine was a total Caltrain geek, apparently I picked up a few things)
posted by zachlipton at 11:41 PM on February 4, 2011

Just saw this...
I want to come but fear you are already overbooked.
posted by obloquy at 3:01 AM on February 5, 2011

I guess I should put my phone number here in the thread, in case people get lost on the way or something:

It's 415 577 3785.
posted by aubilenon at 11:20 AM on February 5, 2011

obloquy: I don't know how much of the people who said "yes" and "maybe" will actually show up, so I don't don't really know what to tell additional people at this point.
posted by aubilenon at 11:25 AM on February 5, 2011

Signing up just to attend?
posted by benzenedream at 1:00 PM on February 5, 2011 [1 favorite]

Think of me, busting my ass picking up heavy cable and loading trucks on TI all night as you enjoy your scotch. Not gonna make it. :(
posted by mollymayhem at 1:54 PM on February 5, 2011

aw mollymayhem. We have to plan the next one around your schedule. We've had far too many that you couldn't make.
posted by special-k at 2:32 PM on February 5, 2011

special-k: but mollymayhem's schedule is so unpredictable! Maybe we should give her some sort of bat signal, and hold a meetup when it appears in the sky.
posted by madcaptenor at 3:25 PM on February 5, 2011

We're gonna have to start having brunch meetups so mollymayhem can come. Assuming she doesn't have to work a matinee...
posted by rtha at 3:26 PM on February 5, 2011

Oh man, I love brunch.
posted by aubilenon at 3:34 PM on February 5, 2011

I've gone from "maybe" to "no." My excuse: we just had twins!
posted by zsazsa at 3:39 PM on February 5, 2011 [8 favorites]

zsazsa: congrats! I would especially like to congratulate you on obtaining awesome hats for your new babies.
posted by madcaptenor at 3:53 PM on February 5, 2011

I've gone from "maybe" to "no." My excuse: we just had twins!

Best excuse ever! Mazel Tov!
posted by special-k at 3:58 PM on February 5, 2011

zsazsa: That just means Gabi can drink again!
posted by aubilenon at 4:01 PM on February 5, 2011

Congratulations to you both! We will raise many glasses to you this evening!
posted by rtha at 4:31 PM on February 5, 2011

Twins?! That's fantastic! Congratulations!

Note: looking forward to seeing these people in real life.
posted by tangerine at 4:46 PM on February 5, 2011

The peninsula crew is gathered on the train. We're directly in front of the engine (the one at the tail).
posted by marylynn at 5:45 PM on February 5, 2011

Oh man this is the worst time for a headache ever.
posted by Pronoiac at 5:48 PM on February 5, 2011

Sad to have just noticed this tonight, and can't make it. What a great idea for a meetup!
posted by judith at 6:28 PM on February 5, 2011

Dang. I completely forgot this was coming up and am stuck doing something else that came up.

Given the interest in this sort of event, maybe we should plan another one in a few months focused on a different alcoholic beverage. Mostly so I don't feel as left out.

Enjoy, guys!
posted by spitefulcrow at 6:32 PM on February 5, 2011

I've been at work for 15 hours, with 3ish more to go, but you guys male me feel loved. :)
posted by mollymayhem at 9:13 PM on February 5, 2011

We miss you, mollymayhem. We drink scotch for you. And for zsazsa and the twins. And for the scotch...
posted by gingerbeer at 9:41 PM on February 5, 2011

fuck, i hate myself right now for not being there.
posted by liketitanic at 11:22 PM on February 5, 2011

There's lots of scotch left here, people!
posted by gingerbeer at 11:25 PM on February 5, 2011

I'm making a note here: huge success! Thank you to all our kind hosts for a lovely evening.
posted by zachlipton at 12:07 AM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

Well done, team! From the scotch to the company to the cupcakes of wonder, I think it's fairly safe to say that an epic time was had by all.
posted by chatongriffes at 12:17 AM on February 6, 2011

Will post pix tomorrow of the amazing amount of scotch. And food.

As always, y'all are awesome. Many many thanks to aubilenon for hosting and ryanrs for providing such bounty and to all the mefites I talked scotch and other liquors and stuff with!
posted by rtha at 12:29 AM on February 6, 2011

We had such a good time. Much gratitude to all you supremely cool people. Especially you, ryanrs and aubilenon.
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 1:06 AM on February 6, 2011

Thank you everybody! If I said anything stupid, it's because I had too much to drink. If I said anything awesome, apparently scotch makes me awesome.
posted by madcaptenor at 1:12 AM on February 6, 2011

If this were Facebook, I would "Like" this.
posted by MattMangels at 1:31 AM on February 6, 2011

What a great evening. Thanks to all, especially our glorious hosts but also the train contingent (rmm, marylynn, MikeKD), and maya (for the silk pouches, which I hear you can't make out of sows' ears), and frognuts (for the salsa salsa salsa salsa). Everyone there was fun to talk to. Good night all you lovely people.
posted by tangerine at 1:56 AM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

What a great evening. Thanks to all, especially our glorious hosts but also to others including but not restricted to my train companions (rmm, marylynn, MikeKD), and maya (for the silk pouches, which I hear you can't make out of sows' ears), and frognuts (for the salsa salsa salsa salsa). Everyone there was fun to talk to. Good night, all you lovely people.
posted by tangerine at 1:57 AM on February 6, 2011

Wow, what fun! Thanks everyone for coming by!

Whose black button down H&M shirt is this left behind on my futon?
posted by aubilenon at 3:25 AM on February 6, 2011

maybe we should plan another one in a few months focused on a different alcoholic beverage

Not so fast. I estimate only 30% of the scotch was consumed. I think the Balvenie Portwood was the hardest hit, reduced to a half-bottle. The Talisker 18 ended the night with less, but did not arrive full. No bottles were killed, regardless of initial condition.
posted by ryanrs at 3:32 AM on February 6, 2011

Oh also I have three more kitchen knives than I started with, plus a spready knife (in the bacon jam) and one ... jam spoon? (in the fig spread). I own enough kitchen knives already so I'm hoping people will want those back.

Extra super thanks to everyone who brought all the delicious things!
posted by aubilenon at 4:26 AM on February 6, 2011

That was incredible, everyone. What a great meetup and what a fantastic group of people. Feels like this is really what the internet is for!
posted by jasper411 at 8:07 AM on February 6, 2011

*hic*
posted by benzenedream at 8:56 AM on February 6, 2011

My new puppy has no sympathy for my hangover this morning, but that was so worth it. Awesome meeting you all!
posted by deludingmyself at 9:15 AM on February 6, 2011

Thank you aubilenon, ryanrs, and everyone else!
posted by finite at 10:16 AM on February 6, 2011

Photos are up.
posted by rtha at 10:21 AM on February 6, 2011

Holy crap you guys, that was awesome times.....how many bottles of scotch were there? Thanks to aubilenon and ryanrs for putting it together!
posted by grapesaresour at 11:59 AM on February 6, 2011

I still have the taste of peat on my tongue.
posted by asterix at 12:35 PM on February 6, 2011

I had a great time, thanks to our intrepid hosts. A perfect welcome to San Francisco -- and I'm surprisingly hangover-free today.
posted by polexa at 12:43 PM on February 6, 2011

It's a lovely feeling, isn't it, asterix? Mmmm....peat.
posted by rtha at 12:48 PM on February 6, 2011

I'm pretty sure that's not 'peat' you're tasting...
posted by danny the boy at 12:48 PM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

First, I'm pretty sure the AWESOME tag can be added to this now. It was great to meet so many of you. I don't think I'm a scotch convert but at least I have a experiential reason for it now. (Sorry Talisker 10 but you and I are NOT FRIENDS).

Second, a bunch of people wanted my bacon jam recipe. It ended up being crazy long, so I've posted it in my profile.

Third, and finally but not least of all, thanks again to ryanrs and aubilenon for organizing this!
posted by marylynn at 12:53 PM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

So I'm gonna run off to marylynn's profile in a sec, but I want to hear if anyone had a whisky they particularly liked (or more than one, you know, is okay too).

Me, I loved the Glenmorangie 12 Madeira and the Lagavulin Distillers. (And pretty much nearly everything else I tried. Didn't hate any of them, that's for sure.)
posted by rtha at 1:11 PM on February 6, 2011

No one mentioned wzcx's delightful gougères. Such an excellent accompaniment to the scotch.
posted by special-k at 1:45 PM on February 6, 2011

They were excellent. Especially with bacon jam on them.
posted by rtha at 1:53 PM on February 6, 2011

I've got a bunch of pics. Fone slow. In brief: what is protocol for this? Presuming some people might not want to be in foto online.

Props to aubilenon & ryans for hosting/setting up! Had fun. Took notes. Full report on return home. Sitting outside next to SFMOMA, baking. This weather is unreal. My pants are like dutch ovens.
-p.
posted by herrdoktor at 2:03 PM on February 6, 2011

I want to hear if anyone had a whisky they particularly liked (or more than one, you know, is okay too).

danny the boy will mock me for this, but I'll be picking up a bottle of the Port Charlotte PC6 ASAP. The Laphroiag 18 and Balvenie 17 also stood out. (I liked the Lagavulin Distillers, but I think I still prefer the 16.)

Oh, and whoever brought the ginger snaps and lemon curd: YOU ARE A GENIUS.
posted by asterix at 2:04 PM on February 6, 2011

Treatment of my headache with application of spirits proved successful. And fun! I met many people who were fun to chat with.

Also, aubilenon upside-down is uoual!qne. Roughly.
posted by Pronoiac at 2:26 PM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

I want to hear if anyone had a whisky they particularly liked (or more than one, you know, is okay too).

Caol Ila was the bestest thing I drank last night.
posted by special-k at 3:00 PM on February 6, 2011

Yes, but you are not picking up the Port Charlotte because you want to drink it. You are picking it up because you want to inflict physical hardship upon others. The abused always become the abusers.
posted by danny the boy at 3:10 PM on February 6, 2011

Oh, I'm totally picking up a bottle of the Port Charlotte, yeah. And the Ardbeg. And Lagavulin wouldn't be wrong to have either.

Oh god I'm doomed.
posted by rtha at 3:42 PM on February 6, 2011

I remember the Lagavulins with particular pleasure. Also, danny the boy and asterix? Cracks me up that you guys are still talking about that Port Charlotte.
posted by tangerine at 3:45 PM on February 6, 2011

More about the Port Charlotte (specifically, the PC5).
posted by rtha at 4:18 PM on February 6, 2011

Off-topic: I am brainstorming the culinary possibilities and practical logistics of a pig roast meetup or similar. If you're interested, or if you know someone familiar with these things, please send me a memail.
posted by ryanrs at 4:44 PM on February 6, 2011

Um, rtha, sweetie, I am pretty sure we have an unopened bottle of Ardbeg here at the house.
posted by gingerbeer at 5:00 PM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

w00t!
posted by rtha at 5:31 PM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

Glenmorangie Finealta, Caol Ila...crap, I somehow missed trying the Port Charlotte.
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 7:13 PM on February 6, 2011

My favorite interesting scotches (new tastes):

Kilchoman - half bourbon, half scotch
Old Pulteney - like caramel-topped seaweed
Port Charlotte - a sucker punch to the gut from a beautiful woman

Roast pig would go well with a rum tasting.
posted by benzenedream at 10:10 PM on February 6, 2011 [1 favorite]

SO MUCH BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL BOOZE.

Looks like I missed an awesome time! Mefites know how to throw a good party.
posted by superquail at 9:46 AM on February 7, 2011

Thanks for the well wishes, everyone! aubilenon brought some anonymous cupcakes down for us yesterday. They were delicious!
posted by zsazsa at 11:19 AM on February 7, 2011

benzenedream is onto something with the rum+roasted pig idea. But also? What goes with gin? Because surely the complex flavours of gin could stand to have some additional group scrutiny? Or am I the only person who's secretly an old english lady?
posted by marylynn at 3:39 PM on February 7, 2011

rtha and I were discussing gin tastings as well. I have a decent collection of gin but stay away from the really junipery Pine-Sol varieties. Gin actually goes really well with strong floral flavors like curry, or fruits. Pimm's punch (gin, Pimm's, mint, lemonade, and strawberries) is my favorite summer drink. Hendrick's would probably go well with something like Indian rice pudding (kheer) which also has rosewater, or rasgulla. An Indian food and gin night would work out nicely.
posted by benzenedream at 4:25 PM on February 7, 2011 [2 favorites]

I guess there is a reason the English stayed so long in India then and it wasn't just for the imperialism. I had never thought of that combination but it sounds amazing!

(Pimm's is also my fave summer drink, though I've never added gin too it since it's mostly gin already isn't it? Preferably delivered by whatever sucker thought it necessary to get out of the lake and wander back up to the cottage.)
posted by marylynn at 4:33 PM on February 7, 2011

Awright folks, will be posting the pics up tomorrow. Anyone who does NOT want to be in the bunch, shoot me MeMail with self-description.

Looks like a super awesome party! Glad to have been there, gotten drunk, and have half the memories of it I should!
posted by herrdoktor at 5:03 PM on February 7, 2011

I cast one vote for rum and lots of votes for gin!

I can bring some homemade gin (compound gin, so infused rather than re-distilled), and some homemade tonic water. Or I can just host again. :D
posted by aubilenon at 5:34 PM on February 7, 2011

I like the sound of this gin and Indian food combination. This warm weather has been making me want a good Pimm's cup. Or a Hendricks and tonic.
posted by grapesaresour at 6:24 PM on February 7, 2011

Hendrick's is the best thing ever.
+1 for a Gin n Indian food meetup.
posted by special-k at 6:53 PM on February 7, 2011

I don't know anything about gin. I'm a little wary of it, I admit, for vaguely Hogarthian reasons. But I'm always up for Indian food and I'm curious, so yes.
posted by tangerine at 7:49 PM on February 7, 2011

I would attend that meetup.
posted by rtha at 8:08 PM on February 7, 2011

I'm going to contradict aubilenon and cast lots of votes for rum and a negative vote for gin.

(I had a traumatic experience with gin this one time in college.)
posted by madcaptenor at 8:12 PM on February 7, 2011

I also vote for Indian food and some type of alcohol. I personally like gin but sympathize with madcaptenor's aversion to it. What about Vodka? Hmm come to think of it I could imagine a Mint Julep complimenting spicy food, although I believe that is made with bourbon. But yeah, Indian food and hard alcohol. Sounds good.
posted by MattMangels at 1:38 AM on February 8, 2011

I feel for you madcaptenor, as I blanch at the mere sight of a bottle of Kahlua, 'lo many (many) years later (propers once again to Dr. C. Brown for getting me sorted after I nearly failed to register for my entire senior year because of The Kahlua + Some Poor SOBs Convertible BMW Incident). But maybe it's just me - if I couldn't revisit entire categories of alcohol because of what happened in college I'd never be able to drink again. Like exposure therapy or something.

Aubilenon's homemade gin is very intriguing!

Also, whatever we do, at some point perhaps I could get the group's opinion: I believe a properly made Hendrick's-based* Singapore Sling tastes remarkably similar to a Pimm's Cup. Conspiracy!

* We might not even need a gin-tasting because there's, you know, Hendrick's.

Sorry, clearly I am on team gin. At least for any warm weather.
posted by marylynn at 10:48 AM on February 8, 2011 [1 favorite]

I am so indescribably bummed that I missed this (especially because it looks from the pic of the food spread that someone made my favorite Molasses Cookies and also because, oh dear god look at all that delicious scotch. Oh right, and also the awesome Mefites.) Please to be having another of these soonish.
posted by wuzandfuzz at 10:49 AM on February 8, 2011

I did a blind vodka tasting (labels masked, not drink until you go blind) at a party a few years ago, and the winner was Trader Joe's Vodka of the Gods ($10/gallon). Vodka is pretty hard to distinguish tastes in, except for varying levels of burn. Most people couldn't correctly identify a random repeat taste with only 6 varieties. There are some exceptions where vodkas have a unique mouth feel or taste but most are designed to be tasteless mixers.

Also, to those of you with bad gin memories of bedspins and floral-scented vomit, there are good gins out there to try. I had the same experience with tequila when I was younger, mistakenly thinking that Cuervo was an actual tequila, instead of an epicac.
posted by benzenedream at 11:02 AM on February 8, 2011

wuzandfuzz: There's molasses in them, but they're gingersnaps. Which looking at that recipe it seems the big difference is just that there's ten times as much ginger and allspice instead of cloves, and otherwise it's pretty similar. But really I made them as something to eat lemon curd with, and I made that because I had a ton of zsazsa's lemon tree's lemons. (and because it's tasty)
posted by aubilenon at 1:14 PM on February 8, 2011

Back in town. What's the easiest/preferred way to share all these photos? Is there something that'll allow all of us to tag/comment on the pics?
posted by herrdoktor at 7:24 PM on February 8, 2011

herrdoktor, you can use the Add photos link in the right-hand side bar to add your photos.


I'm down for a gin meetup AND a rum meetup. We can do it all, mefites!
posted by gingerbeer at 9:33 PM on February 8, 2011

Ok, thanks! They're up.
Lemme know if there are some super crazy settings I should adjust for privacy/editing/tagging/etc.
posted by herrdoktor at 9:54 PM on February 8, 2011

I totally know who's wearing these shoes!
posted by rtha at 10:04 PM on February 8, 2011

Everyone knows that the awesomeness of the shoe must be proportional to the awesomeness of the event. Metafilter, I honor you. With 4 1/2" heels.

These are fantastic pictures, herrdoktor. Thank you!
posted by chatongriffes at 10:13 PM on February 8, 2011

Yeah, no kidding. Awesome shots herrdoktor!
posted by asterix at 10:24 PM on February 8, 2011

That was a wonderful meetup. Thanks to everyone who contributed, came along, and especially to aubilenon for having us all.
posted by wzcx at 10:45 PM on February 8, 2011

herrdoktor, your photographs are excellent.
posted by cybercoitus interruptus at 11:51 PM on February 8, 2011

Frognuts took most of em.
Some strange person took fotos of shoes...
posted by herrdoktor at 1:11 AM on February 9, 2011

Great party, thank you so much, hosts and scotch purveyors! And marylynn for the fabulous, fabulous bacon jam, mmm.
posted by sumiami at 2:13 AM on February 9, 2011

Awesome pictures herrdoktor and frognuts!
posted by special-k at 9:01 AM on February 9, 2011

I'm a new convert to both Scotch and MetaFilter meetups.
posted by lettersoflead at 8:51 PM on February 9, 2011

lettersoflead, guess what you're getting baptized with at the next meetup
posted by MattMangels at 12:52 AM on February 10, 2011

I got to use the "STFU" card from maya's party favour gift yesterday. Thanks for those maya! Thanks also to my friend with the sense of humour.

Someone at work gave me a bottle of Hendrick's for my birthday today. It's like... are they reading this?!
posted by marylynn at 10:03 AM on February 10, 2011