FATHERS AND WHISKIES

As Father’s Day approaches, Timeless & Tasty, curator of premium spirits reimagines whisky gifting as a celebration of legacy, launching its Father’s Day Whisky Guide curated by founder Hil Tse alongside two whisky veteran dads: Agung Prabowo, Founder of Penicillin and Lockdown and John Drummond, General Manager of the Intercontinental Grand Stanford & Organizer of the Hong Kong Whisky Festival.

Agung Prabowo, Founder of Penicillin Hong Kong, Penicillin Shanghai, and Lockdown
Known for his pioneering sustainability-focused bars, Agung shares how whisky has created unforgettable family moments. “My favourite whisky that reminds me of family is the Cask Speyside 12 Years Sherry Oak,” says Agung. “I shared a bottle with my father on his birthday. That moment and that whisky holds a special place in my heart.” He also notes that his most memorable cocktail creation is the Old Fashioned, one he hopes to share with his child someday. When it comes to gifting, Agung emphasises the importance of connection, “I appreciate both classic whiskies and ones with unique flavours. It really depends on the person and the moment.”

John Drummond, General Manager, Intercontinental Grand Stanford & Organizer of the Hong Kong Whisky Festival
For John, whisky is a family tradition in a bottle: “There are several whiskies I’ve opened during family gatherings. Revisiting those bottles later always brings back warm memories.” While he favours unique expressions like independent bottlings, he says, “Any whisky gifted by family feels truly special - it shows thoughtfulness and care.” John’s wish list this year includes rare releases: “I’m particularly interested in trying new expressions from Dutch Whisky Connection, like the Secret Islay 14 Years, and first editions from up-and-coming distilleries such as Stobcross by The Clydeside.”

Hil Tse, Founder of Timeless & Tasty
For Hil, whisky is deeply personal and unexpectedly comic, “A fond memory I shared with my dad was when he unknowingly tried a peated Caol Ila. As a wine drinker, he took a big slurp - his face said it all! It’s one of those moments you never forget.” Hil appreciates timeless classics, especially as seasons change, “In summer, I love something like a Benromach 15 Years - elegant and balanced. But I also enjoy giving tasting sets or experience boxes that allow people to explore something new together.” Like many collectors, she’s on the hunt for bottles tied to her birth year: “I’ve been lucky to find rare gems like a Miltonduff 34 Years. It’s a bottle I plan to open on a meaningful birthday someday.”