A number of local bars carry single-malt scotches, but we found a couple of noteworthy spots with knowledgeable folks who love to talk about their whiskey:

• Hal Clary is passionate about scotch. He's hosted tastings for 12 years and is constantly researching and studying the stuff. Clary's the new food and beverage manager at The Pointe restaurant at Mariners Landing on Smith Mountain Lake, where he hosted his latest single-malt scotch tasting this past weekend.

For the novice, Clary recommends lowland scotches that are aged in sherry casks (they're more mellow, he says).

Look for his next tasting event this November, or show up anytime for an informal tasting. You can pick any three out of 10 possible choices for $15.

• Montano's International Gourmet claims the most scotches to choose from - 21 in all. They range from $5.50 a glass to $30 a shot (that would be the Johnnie Walker Blue Label). If you want something in the moderate price range, go with Highland Park (it's lighter, has less of a charcoal flavor and it shares the name of one of Roanoke's parks). If you're at the restaurant and want recommendations (plus history behind the current trends), ask to speak with chef/owner Marty Montano.

- Stephanie Ogilvie