You’ve probably noticed that this site is called Pancakes and Whiskey. So far, we’ve covered whiskey. We’ve also covered music, but not pancakes (don’t worry, we’ll get to pancakes soon – with a nice bourbon maple syrup, I’m thinking). Now it’s time to bring the two sides together. Check out our new feature, Spirits & Songs! Lots of things get paired these days – beer and food, bacon and everything, even books and alcohol. So why not music? What’s better than listening to your favorite band or a new find, with a glass of whiskey in your hand? Check out these match-ups. And you know – you can leave a comment, tell me if you agree or have a better idea. Don’t be shy!
Karla Moheno – Blacked Out and Blue
[soundcloud]https://soundcloud.com/karlamoheno/blacked-out-and-blue[/soundcloud]
Karla’s voice reminds me of Patsy Cline – a little sweeter and more flowing, perhaps – which makes me think of bourbon. Bourbon’s made from at least 51% corn (laws, ya know) which makes the hooch round and sweet, like Karla’s voice. I’m thinking a glass of Angel’s Envy would go nicely with Blacked Out and Blue. As whiskey ages in a barrel, a small percentage of it is lost to evaporation – that bit is called the angel’s share. The folks making this juice decided that what was left is worthy of envy and named it accordingly. They make a rye whiskey, that’s finished in rum casks, both are a great pour.
Alex Winston Official – Velvet Elvis
[soundcloud]https://soundcloud.com/alexwinstonofficial/alex-winston-velvet-elvis[/soundcloud]
The sound of Alex’s voice makes me think of a geisha singing to a painting of Elvis. I think Suntory’s Hibiki whisky would be an interesting match. Japanese whisky is actually crafted in the Scottish style, which gives it a smoky flavor. Alex sings of crossing the line but I think Suntory is definitely on the right side of the good whisky line.
The Peach Kings – Thieves and Kings Single
[soundcloud]https://soundcloud.com/thepeachkings/thieves-and-kings-single[/soundcloud]
With grit and a slightly sharp edge – not to mention lyrics that include, “Chugging whiskey in the bayou”, Thieves and Kings is my favorite song on this list. Sipping on Rittenhouse 100‘s spicy rye whiskey would be the perfect complement. If you see the Rittenhouse Bottled In Bond, that means it followed a set of government rules (a seemingly endless supply of rules) – the whiskey was distilled in one year, by one distiller at one distillery. Then it was aged at least 4 years in a federally supervised, bonded warehouse. Mix it into a cocktail – try a Manhattan to round the edges of the rye, or if you want to keep the spicy taste, add an ice cube and a dash of bitters (Peychaud’s or I like The Bitter Truth’s chocolate bitters).
J Roddy Walston – Heavy Bells
[soundcloud]https://soundcloud.com/j-roddy-walston/heavy-bells[/soundcloud]
Almost a Jamaican sound to begin with, that soon gives way to a driving guitar and vocals. I think this song calls for something a little different. Let’s swing through Jamaica on our way to Ireland, for Teeling’s small batch whiskey. Finished in rum casks, it gives the Irish whiskey a bit of sweetness. Ireland makes some pretty tasty whiskey – you can also give Jameson & Ginger a try, too. A couple ounces of Jameson, mixed with your favorite ginger beer over ice, add a lime wedge – a sweet & spicy combo, much like Heavy Bells.
Everest Cale – Beast
[soundcloud]https://soundcloud.com/everestcale/beast[/soundcloud]
Another melancholy tune- from the guy’s side this time. Cale’s vocal slides make me think of bourbon again, but this time something cask strength. Most whiskey is diluted with water when it’s bottled, to bring down the proof and make it more palatable (tip: if the whiskey you’re sipping is too hot/spicy, a few drops of water may help. Grab the stir stick in your water, put your finger over the end and drip a little water into your whiskey). Cask strength is not diluted, so it can be between 110 and 125 proof. Not a whiskey to be taken lightly, but neither is a broken heart, right? With lines like, “She’s come to feed on the one she loves”, and a sound that’s heavy in the middle and just begins to fade at the edges, it’s a perfect match for Four Roses’ limited edition bourbons.
Article by: Jeanne Runkle
