Take part in a whisky masterclass – live from Kentucky

The world of whisky is varied and fascinating - with the top distilleries employing centuries of exacting standards to ensure each bottle tastes like a dream.

For those who know their Bourbon from their Malts, the history and provenance of their favourite dram adds a flavour of authenticity to the rich aromas and complex, smoky notes that assault the senses in such a seductive way.

This painstaking pursuit of perfection can reveal itself in unexpected and wonderful ways, like the link between Maker’s Mark Bourbon and Laphroaig. From the Ozark mountains from which Maker’s Mark source their oak to the special “air drying” techniques used in preparation of their barrels (after maturing Maker’s Mark to perfection) they are shipped nearly 4,000 miles from Loretto, Kentucky to the Laphroaig distillery on the south shore of the Isle of Islay to enjoy a second life creating the unique taste and world-class reputation that Laphroaig expressions are so famous for.

In 2007 Laphroaig held the world’s first ever live online whisky tasting in London garnering one of the highest online broadcast audiences ever, this was followed up by last year’s live broadcast direct from Laphroaig’s home on the Scottish island of Islay gaining an even larger audience.

This year they’ve gathered together some of the world’s top whisky experts and Master Distillers for Distillery Live 2009 direct from the Maker’s Mark distillery in Kentucky. They will be tasting Maker’s Mark and a few of the different Laphroaig expressions, exploring how they can be enjoyed in cocktails and even add their subtle flavours to food in cooking. However, there will of course be time to appreciate the glory of both Laphroaig and Maker’s Mark straight.

Joining this not-to-be-missed opportunity is President of Maker's Mark Bill Samuels Jr and their Master Distiller Kevin Smith, as well as John Campbell, Distillery Manager for Laphroaig and famous whisky writer John Hansell.

Bill Samuel Jr, John Campbell, Kevin Smith and John Hansell will be live online at distillerylive.us.com on Saturday 26th September at 01.00 BST (Friday 25th September 20:00 EST) to take part in this fascinating story of Laphroaig and Maker’s Mark.

To submit questions before the chat visit distillerylive.us.com.

For more information visit laphroaig.com/ live .