Tom Jones, global brand ambassador for Johnnie Walker, has one thing in common with whisky connoisseurs in T&T–an appreciation of how well it mixes with coconut water.
Jones, who regularly buys up stocks of coconut water from supermarkets in his native Scotland to ensure that he has a steady supply, says one of his favourite ways of savouring whisky is with a block of frozen coconut water and a stick of chocolate.
He is looking forward to the rare treat of getting his coconut water fresh out of the shell during his brief stay here.
Expect him to share that and his other experiences when he visits Trinidad on February 6 and 7, the latest stop on the epic journey of the luxury yacht Voyager, currently on the Caribbean and Latin America leg of a round-the-world trip.
A knowledgeable scotch whisky expert, Jones takes great pride in promoting the luxury collection from Johnnie Walker. His considerable knowledge of whisky, particularly the world renown brands produced by John Walker and Sons was clear even in a telephone interview as he spoke about his upcoming, first visit to T&T.
When he interacts with whisky connoisseurs here, he will recount the history and heritage of the whisky brand and its founder.
One important point Jones plans to highlight is this: "There is no right or wrong way to enjoy whisky.
"Whisky with a mixer is fabulous in some ways. There are countries that mix whisky with coconut water, and some with green tea or soda or ginger ale. It is all about a balance in taste, and it's different for different countries around the world," he explained.
"Whisky appeals to many different people in many different ways."
For Jones, the most important elements are smoothness, balance and big flavours. He said he developed his love for whisky three decades ago and became an expert during a long career in the hospitality industry.
Jones previously worked for Diageo as a brand development executive. As global ambassador for John Walker & Son, he travels the world sharing his vast knowledge at a range of media, sales and entertainment events, interacting with sales staff, distributors, customers, consumers and whisky lovers.
On his current assignment on board the Voyager, Journey Without Boundaries, he has made stops in locations across Asia, including Shanghai, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore and Dubai. The European leg has included calls at Genoa, Porto Fino, Cannes, Monaco, Athens, Barcelona, Amsterdam, London, Hamburg, Copenhagen and Edinburgh.
Along the way, Jones has been sharing his many experiences online through blogs and posts.
Among the most memorable parts of the journey so far has been sailing into northern Vietnam, which he described as "astounding and beautiful." Then there was a leisurely voyage from Greece to Barcelona which included fishing along the way.
In Trinidad, Jones is looking forward to the warm tropical weather–a welcome change from the wintery conditions in Scotland–and a taste of the Carnival season.