My husband and I had been dating for a few years. We went to a bar one night and he ordered a Scotch on the rocks. I wasn’t really into Scotch whiskey, but he asked me to try it. As I put the glass up to my mouth this smell took over. It was overwhelming and it was immediate - it was my favorite grandfather, my “Popie”. A wave of warm memories of my childhood immediately flooded my mind.

The next day I was talking to my mom and I told her about my experience. I asked her why I was having these strong associations of my Popie (her father) when I smelled Scotch. She reminded me that it was his favorite drink and he would drink it regularly as I was growing up.

I started thinking back to the times, as a child, when we would go see Popie. We would drive up to San Francisco and as soon as we got into the house, the ritual was for us kids to run and grab the empty wine bottle that was filled with jelly beans. My sister, brother and I would each get to take one and then we’d get a kiss from Popie. I loved those kisses as much as I loved the jelly beans. Popie was such a warm and caring person. He was the first grandparent I lost. He’ll always be my favorite.

Thinking about it now, I think it must have been those kisses that smelled of Scotch. It’s a smell that’s hard for me to describe, but I know that whenever I smell Scotch today, it immediately fills me with warmth and happiness. It takes me to a carefree childhood enjoying the day with Popie.

If the scent had a sound, what would it be? It would be loud and strong.

If the scent had a color, what would it be? A warm, darker color

If the scent had a texture, what would it be? Sharp edges

If the scent could give you advice, what would it tell you? Take it easy, relax. Enjoy the moment.