World Monitor Magazine Spring | Page 52

Life style The Masterpiece This article may contain information on alcohol products, the use of which is contraindicated for persons under the age of 21, pregnant and lactating women, persons with diseases of the central nervous system, kidneys, liver and digestive organs. Excessive alcohol consumption is harmful to your health. The first written mention of this drink dates back to 1494, and today it has become one of the main export items, increasing the treasury of the UK by nearly three billion pounds annually. When the medieval inhabitants of the British Isles began to comprehend the subtleties of creating this life-giving moisture they were lucky, because in the valleys of Scotland there were five elements, of which to this day there is a recipe for perfection: earth, water, air, malt, and a sufficient number of empty oak barrels. So the success story of Scotch was born. Below is a story about the most successful Scotch brand in history. The history of the two brothers who built up the production of whiskey to the level of an art and laid the foundation for the creation of the world's first premium whiskey. Brothers John and James Chivas were not just entrepreneurs, but also connoisseurs, philanthropists and masters of their craft. All these qualities merged into a unique blend, largely determining their innovative approach to creating whiskey. The Chivas brothers grew up on a remote Scottish farm, and realized that the world around is very rapidly changing and does not end in the vastness of native Scotland. Soon, the ambitions and aspirations of the brothers increased so much that their native lands became tight, and they ended up in Aberdeen, a port city that had become home to the pioneering experiments of John and James. James worked at a major delicatessen store and was famous for being able to provide customers with anything they liked. 50 world monitor If the goods were not purchased, they found it. If it was impossible to find, it was created. Soon John joined the firm, and the company known as the Chivas Brothers was founded. The brother’s innate business sense brought them success not only in their native Aberdeen, but also beyond, as John and James believed that the taste of success must be shared. They donated funds and time to help society - sponsored the installation of one of the stained-glass windows for the main church of Aberdeen, and, James was a member of the board of the Royal Hospital in Aberdeen. During the time of the Chivas brothers, whiskey had a sharp smell, was very strong, and tested the stamina of those who drank it. John and James decided to go against established traditions and start mixing (blending) one-malt Scottish spirits and were able to achieve success. Their first experiences grew into a vocation, and the brothers became the founders of the tradition of blending whiskey.