The place is empty, except for the bartender and myself. Probably just as well. The Bar at The Mansion on Turtle Creek is austere. It's refined. It's like a law school library. That's not to say it's not comfortable. I like the plush seating. I like the grand piano in the corner. I love the scotch selection. The gazelles and the English fox hunting prints on the walls? Eh.


The Bar at The Mansion on Turtle Creek. PHOTO: ANTHONY HEAD

Maybe I'm not even supposed to be in here, at least not yet. The place definitely has a club-like atmosphere, and maybe it's too early for any of the club-members to appear. I suspect they're all still relaxing in their five-star suites or checking their stock quotes poolside. I feel like the first guy to show up at a party I wasn't invited to.

I order a Glenmorangie ten-year "with an added whisper of water." That bartender just keeps eyeing me. Maybe it's my tank-top and flip-flops. I have got to remember to bring a collared shirt with me the next time I come to Dallas.

Anthony Head is Texas Editor for Tasting Panel Magazine. Read more on his website: www.TheArmchairOenophile.com .