During a press tour to Edmonton, Alberta this winter, I had to endure minus 20 degree celsius weather, but the task at hand was one that warmed my heart.  The job was to sample a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue, valued at $27,000, during exclusive fireside interviews with local media.  Johnnie Walker Master Blender Jim Beveridge (yes, that’s his real name) produced only 200 bottles of this liquid gold.  Canada received five of these masterpieces, which were blended in celebration of John Walker’s 200th birthday.

The tour was supposed to be no different from others we had made to Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto, but in Edmonton we received a surprise visit from Canadian recording star Jann Arden!  A reporter who met with us was also there to speak with Ms. Arden, who happened to be holding media interviews for her upcoming album, Uncover Me, at our hotel.  The reporter decided to bring her down to meet us.  Not normally one to be star-struck, I must admit to feeling giddy with excitement.  I’ve been a huge Jann fan for years.  I was very impressed — she looked gorgeous, and she was as welcoming and friendly as a person can be.  More importantly, I was thrilled to learn that she enjoys scotch!  Jann was blown away by the chance to savor a $1000 sample of Johnnie Walker Blue, and believe me, the rest of us were equally pleased!