When David Allardice (Dave Paradice on social media) took over the turntable at a Dallas cocktail bar 12 years ago, he says it was a rare opportunity to fuse his two passions — for music and for Scotch Whisky. “I was a little apprehensive about how it would work,” he says, “but people connect with music in a natural way we sometimes take for granted, and fusing that connection with an appreciation for Glenfiddich — the reception was overwhelmingly positive.”

This alchemy of pairing different expressions of Glenfiddich with music of all genres has evolved into a strong social media presence — @whiskysoundsgood on Instagram and YouTube — as well as playlists on Spotify. In a variety of events, from DJ soirées to whisky master classes, David continues to connect Glenfiddich with discerning drinkers across a wide span of different ages, backgrounds, and tastes.

Sharing a love for and knowledge of Glenfiddich

Born and raised in Scotland and now based in Los Angeles as the Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador, David has spent the last dozen years perfecting the music/whisky connection through special events, dinners, and gatherings where he can share his deep love for and knowledge of the whisky.

His travels have taken him all over the country and some of his favorite events are those hosted by top Seattle cocktail bars and spirits retailers.

The Gold Dust Room at The Butcher’s Table, a luxurious special event venue, was the setting for a holiday launch party where David introduced Glenfiddich 23 Year Old Grand Cru to Seattle. This luxury, limited edition expression has been matured in American and European oak, before spending six months in French cuvee casks. The French oak finish adds a luxurious and intriguing dimension to this premium Speyside single malt, bringing notes of white grape, baked goods, and vanilla.

Freeform, casual sound sessions at the classic cocktail bar Rob Roy have been extremely popular, and are planned again this summer. “It’s cool to be back on the old-style turntable,” David says. “Our last event here was a mix of hip-hop, house, and electronic music.

“This summer we’ll introduce people to some of the very special expressions, and introduce a few surprises. It’s a nice break away from the traditional image that Scotch may have for some people. There’s always a place for cigars and gold and luxury watches, and Glenfiddich has a wide portfolio of variants, so everyone can find their perfect fit.”

The 12-Year-Old is the World’s Most Awarded Single Malt Whisky

David says those new to Glenfiddich often begin their education into the intricacies of the brand with the 12 Year Old, known as the World’s Most Awarded Single Malt Whisky. It’s also the best-selling single malt on the planet — the foundation on which a lifelong education in whisky can be built. Best drunk neat, it makes a fine whisky sour or Rob Roy and is a lovely upgrade from blended scotch in many other classic cocktails.

Deep Dive, a classic cocktail lounge inside an art installation at the base of the Spheres, is another Seattle venue where Scotch enthusiasts will find a solid selection of Glenfiddich expressions to continue their single malt whisky explorations.

At McCallum & Sons, a boutique bottle shop in downtown Tacoma, David recently gave a Whisky Master Class, highlighting the exquisite complexity of the 30 Year Old, a deep, layered drink that has spent at least 30 years in Spanish Oloroso and American bourbon oak concurrently.

"Sometimes people are pleasantly surprised to learn that Glenfiddich has whisky as old as 30 years and above," David says. "There's a lot of depth within our whisky stocks at the Glenfiddich distillery; with different price points and different finishes to entice whisky drinkers and collectors at various stages of their whisky journey." Whichever expression a customer chooses, they can count on a whisky consistent in quality with the rich fruity flavors that reflect the traditional Glenfiddich style. 

Control, consistency, and quality for many tastes and occasions

With a range of whiskies that are approachable, consistent, and of the highest quality production, the brand continues to appeal to many tastes and occasions. Glenfiddich is one of the few single malt distilleries in Scotland to remain independently family-owned. 

William Grant and his nine children built the distillery by hand over the span of a year.

Ever since the first drop flowed on Christmas Day, 1887, a meticulous attention to control, consistency and quality has allowed Glenfiddich to continue producing exceptional Scotch Single Malt Whisky.

Whether it’s their signature green bottle of 12 Years, the 14 Year Bourbon Barrel Reserve, or the luxurious rum cask finished 21 Year Old, Glenfiddich has distinct flavors, aromas, and finishes to excite both newcomers and experienced whisky drinkers alike. 

For a complete description of all Glenfiddich expression on the market, visit The Collections.

Please drink the exceptional responsibly. For further information, visit glenfiddich.com.

Photos provided by French Sessa Co.