Scotland vs. Japan: Who's Your Sensei Now?

This is a battle of the Titans! Clearly, Scotch was first, but given how popular AND expensive Japanese malts have become...one can't help but wonder if the student hasn't surpassed the master. There are many similarities between these two categories, yet two very different cultures show their singularities in their whisky production. It will be a fair battle. Japan is known for its attachment to time-honored traditions and its constant thirst for innovation and perfection as well. Scotland has always embraced modernity but never denied its heritage. Auctions always show top results for classic powerhouses such as Macallan or Ardbeg, yet crazy amounts are reached for any long-forgotten or closed Japanese distillery bottlings. Is one superior to the other, or more complete, less commercial, more collectible? By comparing 8 whiskies in 4 pairs, we'll let our taste buds be the judges! You're getting two classes in one sitting! Scottish fare and typical Japanese morsels will be served before the class starts.