In tribute to International Whisk(e)y Day on March 27, we spoke to Dr Bill Lumsden, director of distilling, whisky creation and whisky stocks at The Glenmorangie Company. He is a pioneer in maturation techniques, and today is as excited about single malt as he was when he took his first sip in 1984. BY MALU LAMBERT PHOTOGRAPH SUPPLIED “Single malt, in comparison to blended whisky, is more distinct and idiosyncratic,” says Dr Bill Lumsden, his Scottish vowels bending pleasantly over the word “idiosyncratic”. He may as well be describing himself – he’s famously leftfield in his approach to whisky making.…

River Meadow Manor, a prominent boutique hotel, conference and wedding venue in Pretoria was recently acquired by celebrated South African hotelier, Siyanda Dlamini and the launch of the new ownership was celebrated at a sumptuous festive feast for business partners, colleagues and media. Dlamini was excited to showcase his venue and some of the delectable dishes on the menu that will make up the showstopper Christmas lunch special at this beautiful property that once belonged to Jan Smuts. The Christmas lunch menu, curated by Chef James Griffiths, featured only the freshest locally grown and seasonal ingredients and included beef bitterballen,…