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  • Pages
01Cover
02Editor's welcome
03Gathering preview
04Guinness World Record attempt
05International whisky
06One of One
07Maverick Tasting
08Matugga Rum Distillery
09Member profile: Scott Mansfield
10Share a dram with… Val McDermid
11Whisky history: record breakers
12Share a dram with...
13Partner bars

SHARE A DRAM WITH

Crossroad Lab

Crossroad Lab is a Scotch Malt Whisky Society member in Japan who has turned his passion into a popular YouTube whisky channel @CROSSROADLAB. Last year, SMWS Japan and Crossroad Lab teamed up for the exclusive release in Japan of Cask No. 53.419, which went on to win the Superior Gold award at the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition (TWSC) 2023. Unfiltered caught up with Crossroad Lab when he visited The Vaults recently

What’s your first whisky memory?

In secondary school, I had my first whisky experience at a friend’s house with his dad, sipping Jack Daniel’s mixed with sweet soda. My initial reaction? “Ahhh! Ohhh (not nice!)”

What’s your favourite whisky drinking music?

Blues & Jazz – a perfect harmony with whisky’s soulful essence.

Best film or TV series

Shawshank Redemption

Fantasy whisky tasting companion

Currently, I dream of sharing whisky with the masterminds behind its creation – the whisky makers themselves!

Most memorable whisky

Macallan 18 from the 1990s – that was the one that made me fall in love with whisky!

Guilty pleasure

While I usually watch my diet, I can’t resist indulging in high-calorie junk food whenever I get the chance!

Dream destination

Egypt – a mysterious land to explore.

Strangest food

Marmite – a unique culinary experience!

Favourite bar

My very own music and whisky bar, nestled in the heart of Hokkaido.

If you were a flavour profile, what would you be?

Heavily Peated: Just like whisky, age has seasoned me with a distinct, bold character!

Join Crossroad Lab on his whisky journey at https://www.youtube.com/@CROSSROADLAB

Crossroad Lab is also the author of “Make Whisky Drinking Your Hobby”, available in Japanese here