With nearly 150 active whisky distilleries spread across Scotland, a wee dram is never too far out of reach. But for those of us watching this year’s Open Championship action from Royal Troon on the American side of the Atlantic, there’s still a way to have an authentic Scotch-drinking experience.
In fact, 5,000 miles from the source, you may find more premium Scotch in Scottsdale than in Scotland, thanks to the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa’s Scotch Library.
Guy Sporbert is the Westin Kierland’s senior Scotch ambassador, and he has been a part of the Library since it opened 10 years ago. He and his colleagues lead weekly tastings and help guests home in on the right Scotch for their taste. Sporbert was recently certified as a Master of Scotch by the Council of Whiskey Masters — the first and, to date, only person in Arizona to receive such a designation.
Despite the vast selection of Scotch on offer, the Library is not a full-service bar. It’s more of an experience. With only five tables available, the space is intimate. Guest reservations are spaced out by at least 30 minutes so Sporbert and his fellow ambassadors can give each person or group the appropriate attention and guidance.
Enthusiasts and newbies alike will be impressed by the inventory available. A collection of 370 bottles includes a 62-year-old Macallan, a 50-year-old Glenfiddich and a 50-year-old Balvenie, a taste of which costs thousands.
“What you pay for in the whisky world is rarity,” Sporbert says. “Very few whiskies get in past the 18- to 30-year range. There are so few bottles of it, and, especially if there’s any demand, it’s going to be very pricey.”
Still, Sporbert says he’s had plenty of takers over the years. The allure is tough to resist. Sporbert gets it. “I drink whisky on a daily basis,” he says with a smile. “It’s the best job in the world.”
