Whiskey for Days
Certainly whiskey has been around for a very long time. In fact, according to a history timeline worked up by BottleNeckManagement.com, the first true whiskey’s were being distilled just over 1000 years ago when the process of distillation made its way from mainland Europe to Ireland and Scotland. No surprise there as Irish and Scottish whiskey’s are famous the world-over. Moving forward to today, there are now so many whiskey brands across the globe it’s hard to count. However, to aid in this endeavour (and to allow you to partake), there is one place in Portland you can visit to truly appreciate this global proliferation…The Multnomah Whiskey Library.
The Multnomah Whiskey Library is a true stunner…where else can you find just about every type of whiskey made in the world? Image Courtesy: Dan Meyers
Done up like an old library, complete with card catalogues, reading “desks” and long wall ladders (for reaching high up whiskey’s vs. books), the Multnomah Whiskey Library is one place you want on your list for Stumptown as, well, it’s just plain cool. And if you’re into whiskey…this is truly your Mecca.
It’s no surprise that literally half of the book of whiskey’s available at Multnomah Whiskey Lounge are dedicated to Scotland and Ireland… Image Courtesy: Dan Meyers
Not being a whiskey aficionado, I went to the Multnomah Whiskey Library on a date night with my wife just to see what it was all about. Long a place I wanted to visit, I was floored by just how many carnations of whiskey there truly are. Unreal. Amazing. So varied. And when it came time to pick, well, I left that task in the hand of our server. Asking a few questions on tastes and preferences, the whiskey I was served was Dalmore, Cigar Malt Reserve from Scotland. Needless to say, the shot I got was very smooth and truly amazing. Shots 2 and 3 (of the same) were less refined as the spirits took over my sensibilities a bit. You can just feel the history on your throat in this place; it’s truly special. In fact, it’s so special that you can expect a 1-2 hour wait if you walk-in. I’d suggest reservations on just about any night…but especially weekends.
With the whiskey book open you can see some of the options and pricing. Yes, it’s not cheap here…definitely not. That said, the selections are world class AND it doesn’t take much whiskey to change your evening ;). Use Uber or Lyft when drinking… Image Courtesy: Dan Meyers
Important Whiskey Library Information
As noted above, getting reservations is key in getting a table at The Multnomah Whiskey Library. Alternatively, stop by, put your name in, and head elsewhere for a drink (you’ll get a text saying “come back”). Here are some more key elements for planning your visit:
Library Hours: Monday-Thursday - 4-12 AM; Friday/Saturday: 4-1 AM
Website: Multnomah Whiskey Library Website
Location: 1124 SW Alder, Portland, Or. 97210 - Location Link Here
My first shot of Dalmore, Cigar Malt Reserve. Two more followed… Image Courtesy: Dan Meyers