The WhiskySchiff Luzern 2012 was an incredible show. My master class led some enthusiastic experts and beginners through the visions and integrity of Bruichladdich. A world first tasting of Black Art III was the highlight, and the traceability of our range really connected with a youthful, open minded and ultimately excitable audience. Lucerne believe me when I tell you that this was an incredible show in a beautiful location and I am extremely proud to have been able to share my stories with you, particularly the story of my epic journey just to make it to the show on time:

After the travel fiasco that was Norway, I thought I was maybe due some luck on the travel front. Someone else thought otherwise.

Whilst Norway tried to keep me with half a foot of snow overnight, Switzerland was desperate to make me sweat for entry. The entire blame however, lies with BMI.

Turning up two hours before my flight to Zurich, there was never any danger I would miss the plane. I’d get into Zurich for 1320. That would give me 3 hours to get to Lucerne an prepare for my master class at 1730. Much to my horror, BMI were maintaining the plane, and every ten minutes another delay was added. Being stuck in Edinburgh airport two hours before my flight was bad enough, but I also had a 2 and a half hour delay to contend with. This was going to be close.

My flight was to arrive into Zurich around 1530. That would give me 2 hours to secure my baggage, clear customs , jump on a train, change in Zurich then race along to Lucerne. This was so tight that GlenDronach were preparing to step in and do a master class in the event I was late. The race was on!

I arrived in Switzerland, not quite sure what to expect. I had been in touch with the festival organisers to advise them of my position. They had told me that I had to get on the 1610 train to Lucerne. Miss that and I miss my master class. Arriving at 1530 I was skeptical about my chances. It was clear I had never used Swiss public transport before. Edinburgh trams look even more unbearable when you arrive in Zurich to find that there’s a train station IN the airport! I bought my ticket and made the 1610 with minutes to spare. I had to change in Zurich main station for a train to Lucerne. The timetables are designed just for this purpose. Integrated transport? What’s that?

I called our guys at the festival. I informed them I was on the train to Lucerne. They informed me that the class was saved! Brilliant.

At 1725 I arrive in Lucerne, at 1729 I rush into the seminar room to find my audience waiting for some Bruichladdich magic. I apologised for my lateness, to which they replied, almost in unison: it’s 1729, you’re one minute early!

There’s a reason the Swiss are so good at making clocks…

Cheers,
Craig