Seagrams Vo

Seagram's VO is a Canadian whisky, and that category sets most of what you can expect in the glass. Canadian whiskies are usually blended from a base of light, column-distilled grain spirit and smaller portions of more flavourful whiskies, often with rye in the mix. The result tends to be lighter-bodied and softer than many bourbons or Scotch whiskies. Expect gentle vanilla, caramel and toasted-grain notes, with a touch of baking spice, and a short, smooth finish without much smoke or heavy oak. This listing doesn't give a proof statement or age, so check the bottle label for the strength. Because the style is easygoing, it can be served several ways. Neat in a small pour works if you want to judge the grain and sweetness, but most people will find it more at home over a large ice cube, where slight dilution rounds out the spice. A splash of cool water opens it up if you drink it straight. Chilling it lightly in the freezer is a reasonable option for a very clean, quiet serve, though it mutes the aroma. The mixing credentials of Canadian whisky are well established. Whisky and ginger ale is the classic highball: use a tall glass, plenty of ice, about one part whisky to three of a dry, sharp ginger ale, and a lemon or lime wedge. It also works in a Manhattan, an Old Fashioned (a sugar cube, bitters and an orange peel suit its soft profile), a whisky sour with fresh lemon, or a hot toddy with honey and lemon. Cola and a squeeze of lime make a simple long drink. For glassware, use a rocks (old fashioned) glass for ice and stirred drinks, a highball or Collins glass for ginger ale or cola builds, and a Glencairn or small tulip glass if you're sipping it neat. Food pairings that suit a lighter whisky include grilled chicken, maple-glazed salmon, pork, smoked cheddar and salted nuts.