WHISKY GALORE BOTTLE MAKES £4,200 AT BONHAMS SCOTTISH SALE

NEAR SELL OUT SALE MAKES £92,000

A bottle of whisky salvaged from the “Whisky Galore” ship, The SS Politician, was sold today for £4,200 on the second day of Bonhams annual Scottish Sale in Edinburgh.   It was retrieved from the wreck of the ship in the 1950s or 1960s and was estimated to fetch £1,200 – 1,800.  The sale made a total of £92,000 and practically every bottle was sold.

The story of the SS Politician and its cargo of whisky is known round the world thanks to the novelist Sir Compton MacKenzie who based his book ‘Whisky Galore’ on the real life events.  The novel was later made into a very popular Ealing Comedy film.

In 1941, the ship set sail for Kingston, Jamaica with a cargo which included pianos, motor parts, bedding and 28,000 cases (264,000 bottles) of whisky. It ran aground in a gale off the Outer Hebrides near the island of Eriskay.  Islanders, from Eriskay and beyond, starved of whisky by war time rationing, systematically salvaged around 24,000 bottles before the authorities caught up with them.  Some of the looters were fined; some ended up in jail; few of the stolen bottles were recovered.  The hull of the ship was blown up by a frustrated local customs officer to put the whisky beyond temptation, prompting one anguished islander to exclaim, “Dynamiting whisky! You wouldn’t think there’d be men in the world so crazy as that!”

Whisky from the Politician rarely appears at auction.  In 1987, 8 bottles were retrieved from the wreck which still lies submerged off the coast of Eriskay and sold for £4,000. Despite extensive salvage efforts in 1989 only 24 more bottles were recovered.

For further sale information please go to www.bonhams.com/scotland

NOTES

Bonhams

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s oldest and largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. The present company was formed by the merger in November 2001 of Bonhams & Brooks and Phillips Son and Neale UK. In August 2002, the company acquired Butterfields, the principal firm of auctioneers on the West Coast of America. Today, Bonhams offers more sales than any of its rivals, through two major salerooms in London: New Bond Street, and Knightsbridge, and a further five throughout the UK. Sales are also held in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Carmel, New York and Boston in the USA; Toronto, Canada; and France, Monaco, Hong Kong and Dubai. Bonhams has a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 25 countries offering sales advice and valuation services in 57 specialist areas. By the end of 2009, Bonhams had become UK market leaders in ten key specialist collecting areas. For a full listing of upcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, go to www.bonhams.com (Feb 2010)

Bonhams, 101 New Bond Street, London, London W1S 1SR United Kingdom

Whisky World – 25th and 26th August

Love Whisky?

We do, and on August 25th and 26th The Oak Barrel will be immersed in the ‘water of life’ with Whisky World – a celebration of unique whiskies from Australia and around the world. Come into our ‘cave’ where an exhibition will showcase a variety of whiskies for your tasting pleasure. If you still want more, join us in the tasting room where each night will feature two master classes, each with a unique focus.

The ‘Cave’ Exhibition will feature a variety of whiskies such as Sheep Dip Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Tobermory 15yo Isle of Mull Single Malt Scotch Whisky as well as distilleries including Glenmorangie and Talisker. If you are passionate about whisky, join us on Wednesday night as we explore award-winning whiskies from Victoria in our Bakery Hill Master Class. Presented by owner and distiller David Baker, Bakery Hill produces classic single malt whiskies with exceptionally fine flavour and aroma. Wednesday night will also feature a rare opportunity to sample not only the Classic Malts but also the “Boutique Barrels” from Isle of Jura distillery in Scotland. With a live Skype crossover to Scotland for the presentation, it promises to be a class to remember! Thursday night will kick off with Limeburners presented by Cameron Syme. Limeburners Whisky is made by the Great Southern Distilling Company on the picturesque Princess Royal Harbour in Albany, Western Australia. Cameron will be showing four Whiskies and a Whisky Liqueur from his stable of fine International Award Winning Whiskies. Last but not least is a family affair as we sample traditional, hand made whiskies from Springbank in Scotland. The oldest independently owned family distillery in Scotland, Springbank uses traditional methods at all stages of the distillation process and carries out the full production process on the one site.

So join The Oak Barrel team as we host this unique event dedicated to the worlds best whiskies. With a range of tickets available, Whisky World has something for everyone – whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or a new found lover, you will be sure to leave with a warm feeling inside!

NOTES

Quick Facts

Time: 6.00pm - 9.00pm


Date: Wednesday 25th & Thursday 26th August

Location: Oak Barrel, Tasting Room

Tickets: 
Platinum: $70 or $60 for members, includes: 2 Master Classes, entry to the   exhibition area over 2 nights.

Gold: $50 or $40 for members, includes: 1 Master Class, entry to the exhibition area for 1 night.

Silver: $20 includes: entry to the exhibition area for 1 night.

Book: events@oakbarrel.com.au

ROB RUBINSTEIN JOINS HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERIES, INC. AS NATIONAL SALES OPERATIONS MANAGER

Industry veteran to fill new role at nation’s largest independent family-owned and operated spirits supplier

LOUISVILLE, KY—Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. announced today that distilled spirits industry veteran Robert F. Rubinstein has joined the company, effective August 9th.  Rubinstein was named to the newly-created position of National Sales Operations Manager, reporting to and working with Heaven Hill Director of North American Sales Steve Feller to optimize the company’s growing sales infrastructure.

Heaven Hill Distilleries, the largest independent family-owned and operated distilled spirits supplier, will be utilizing Rubinstein’s sales management experience to further the company’s ongoing alignment of sales processes and resources with short and long-term performance goals.  Heaven Hill is the producer of such renowned category leading brands as Evan Williams Bourbon, Christian Brothers Brandy, Burnett’s Vodka and Hpnotiq Liqueur, and has leveraged strong sales growth to become the nation’s seventh largest overall spirits supplier.

Rubinstein joins Heaven Hill after 13 years with Sidney Frank Importing Company as Director of Sales Analysis and Planning.  Prior to that, he served as a Senior Business Analyst for Bacardi USA’s Eastern and Mid-Atlantic Divisions.  Originally from the New York area, Rubinstein is a graduate of Binghamton University/State University of New York, and holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut.  He will be relocating from New York with his wife Jennifer and two children to Louisville, where he will be officed.

“We are extraordinarily pleased to have an executive with Rob’s track record join us at this time of such robust growth for the company,” commented Heaven Hill Distilleries Director of North American Sales Steve Feller. “He and I, along with our Sales Division Managers, will be refining and building our sales organization for even greater success in the ever-changing distilled spirits landscape.”

Founded in 1934, Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Evan Williams and Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.” 

Whisky Connosr at The Whisky Show 2010

The Whisky Show, the UKʼs foremost luxury whisky tasting event, returns thisyear in spectacular style in a larger more spacious venue and, this time, the experience will offer a truly unique new dimension thanks to an exclusive digital partnership with connosr.com – the independent social networking website devoted entirely to whisky.

This yearʼs expanded Whisky Show will once again present the finest examples of whisky from around the world, providing recommendations and tastings to suit every palate. As digital partners, connosr.com will be bringing the show to life online as well as providing a unique interactive consumer experience at the event itself.

Our exclusive digital event will enable everyone at the show to take part. Weʼll be asking whisky fans to take centre stage as we elevate whisky critiquing to new heights. Watch this space and look out for more details on connosr.com

connosr.com at The Whisky Show - we hope to see you there!

DEWAR’S® BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY INTRODUCES ITS NEW “COVER”

Famed Rock-and-Roll Photographer Danny Clinch Commissioned to Capture Brand’s Bold New Look

Coral Gables, Fla. (AUGUST 2010) – DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch Whisky, the number one selling premium Scotch in the United States, is thrilled to announce a vibrant transformation in the design of its portfolio.  As the DEWAR’S collection expanded throughout the brand’s history to include DEWAR’S WHITE LABEL™, DEWAR’S 12 Years Old, DEWAR’S 18 Years Old and DEWAR’S SIGNATURE, each marque was created with its own silhouette and design aesthetic.  With the redesign of the entire DEWAR’S portfolio, the products now appear as a tight-knit family.  Just as the four DEWAR’S marques display a unified progression in taste, DEWAR’S new look visually links the products together as one unit for the first time in the brand’s history.  To launch the new packaging, the brand has worked with famed rock-and-roll photographer Danny Clinch – known for his iconic portraits and solid-gold album covers – to capture the new look on film. 

While the bottles contain the same great blended Scotch whiskies, the new design better emphasizes the artistry and craftsmanship that has defined the DEWAR’S brand since 1846.  Featuring perfect curves, tempting colors and a revolutionary style, the new DEWAR’S look is thoroughly modern, cohesive and bold.  With a vibrant color palette and innovative wave design, the new DEWAR’S packaging engages the drinker by providing a visual window into the superior liquid inside.  The bottle is emblazoned with the year of DEWAR’S founding, 1846, as well John Dewar’s signature.  In addition, the display features gold icons that represent the brand’s countless awards and accolades. 

“We’re thrilled to unveil DEWAR’S modern new exterior, as it fully captures the energy and vigor that defines the brand,” says DEWAR’S Vice President, Brand Managing Director, Fannie Young. “The dynamic new packaging gives consumers the opportunity to recognize the DEWAR’S brand as a family, and to explore the portfolio as they become more familiar and engaged with the brand.  Photographer Danny Clinch epitomizes the DEWAR’S man, and we’re so impressed with the way he captured the new bottle design through his lens.”

Clinch confesses, “I was very inspired by the shape of the new DEWAR’S bottle, and the way the curved edges resemble the shape of a guitar. I tapped my personal style and influences from the music world for the shoot.  I brought my own equipment, including a guitar, harmonica and vintage speakers, which allowed me to capture the striking new bottle in a visually stimulating and exciting environment.  As a long-time DEWAR’S drinker, I’m so honored to be the very first to capture the essence and spirit of the new packaging.”

A self-made, inspirational and independent photographer, Clinch has established himself as one of the premier photographers of the popular music scene. As an artist, Danny continues to take risks – focusing on endeavors he believes are worth doing – a trait that keeps his work exciting, fresh and relevant.  He has maintained his successful career while retaining a free-thinking identity – a way of life that perfectly expresses the DEWAR’S brand. 

The New Jersey native began his professional career working as an intern for Annie Leibovitz, one of his initial inspirations.  He has since photographed a wide range of artists, from Johnny Cash to Tupac Shakur to Bruce Springsteen.  His work has appeared in publications including Vanity Fair, Spin, Rolling Stone, GQ, Esquire, The New Yorker, and The New York Times Magazine, and his photographs have appeared on hundreds of album covers. 

Clinch not only photographed the new DEWAR’S portfolio, but will also serve as a DEWAR’S Brand Ambassador.  The DEWAR’S new packaging will be available on shelves in August of 2010.

Suggested Retail Prices:
• DEWAR’S WHITE LABEL – $21.99 (750 ml); $27.99 (1 L); $32.99 (1.75 L)
• DEWAR’S 12 Years Old – $28.99 (750 ml); $36.99 (1 L); $46.99 (1.75 L)
• DEWAR’S 18 Years Old – $79.99 (750 ml)
• DEWAR’S Signature – $199.99 (750 ml)

About DEWAR’S
The name of DEWAR’S is one of the most respected in the world of Scotch whisky. Founded in 1846 by John Dewar Sr., DEWAR’S has grown from a small wine and spirits merchant shop in Perth, Scotland, to become a global brand, famed the world over for quality blended whiskies. Today, DEWAR’S is one of the largest whisky brands in the world, and the top selling blended Scotch whisky in the United States. The foundation stone of the portfolio is the WHITE LABEL blend, which was first created in 1899. The complete DEWAR’S portfolio includes: DEWAR’S WHITE LABEL Blended Scotch Whisky, DEWAR’S 12 Years Old Special Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky, DEWAR’S 18 Years Old Founder’s Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky and DEWAR’S Signature Blended Scotch Whisky.

About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.
Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. is the United States import and distribution arm of one of the world’s leading spirits and wine producers. The company boasts a portfolio  of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits brands inthe  United  States  including  BACARDI®   rum,  the  world’s  favorite and best-selling  premium  rum,  as  well as the world’s most awarded rum; GREY GOOSE®  vodka,  the  world-leader  in super-premium vodka; DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch  Whisky,  the number-one selling blended Scotch whisky in the United States;  BOMBAY  SAPPHIRE®  gin,  the  top-valued premium gin in the world; CAZADORES® blue agave tequila, the number-one premium tequila in the world; MARTINI®  vermouth,  the  world-leader  in  vermouth; and other leading and emerging brands.

SENSIBILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY ARE A FINE MIX.
www.dewars.com
©2010 DEWAR’S,  WHITE LABEL AND DEWAR’S SIGNATURE ARE TRADEMARKS AND/OR REGISTERED TRADEMARKS, IMPORTED BY JOHN DEWAR & SONS COMPANY, CORAL GABLES, FL.  BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKIES – DEWAR’S 12 & DEWAR’S SIGNATURE - 43% ALC. BY VOL.  DEWAR’S WHITE LABEL  40% ALC. BY VOL.

Short Mountain Distillery

Traditional Tennessee Distilled Spirits from Liberty, TN

We in the process of certifying our state’s first distillery referendum under a new state law allowing distilleries. Voters in Cannon County (TN) will be able to vote in November. Counties without liquor by the drink or package stores approved by voters must have a referendum to allow distilleries. Short Mountain Distillery will be located on a 300+ acre farm on Short Mountain in Liberty, TN making moonshine.

Read more at  http://www.shortmountaindistillery.com/2010/08/11/jobs-and-tourism-are-on-the-november-ballot-in-cannon-county/

SPRINGBANK SOCIETY NEWSLETTER

Greetings to all Society Members.

Summer is here, but as usual in Scotland we are still having four seasons in one day on a regular basis.

The tourists don’t seem to be put off by our weather as they still keep coming. The shop has been very busy with people wishing to tour the distillery and taste the whisky. Lea, our summer tour guide is getting plenty of practice, and is also out and about like a tourist herself, taking in the sights of Davaar Island, St Columba’s footprints at Southend, all the local beaches and, of course, the pub at night. She has fitted right in and seems to be enjoying her time so far in our wee community.

Customs & Excise

We are just about there with the customs problems. We have been advised that we have to ensure that the duty is paid on whisky in the country of final destination in the EU member states before we can dispatch orders. This means that we have to send out an invoice to our customer, who then has to go to their customs & excise and pay the duty then send the original receipt to me for dispatch with the order. We will of course deduct the UK duty so that these customers are not paying two lots of duty.

This will hold up orders a little and will entail some more admin work, but as long as you don’t mind waiting a little longer for your whisky, I certainly don’t mind the extra work. The invoices will be e mailed to you so that will speed up the process a little. At the present time we have a little “trial” going on with a few members to see how things work out. We really apprecialte your help in this and also appreciate the members’ patience with us at this time.

Society bottle

We still have a little of the Springbank 14y/o Society bottle - this is the only one available now, but if you ordered any of the others before our dispatch “crash” then they should still be on the reserve shelf for you and we will get them out as soon as we are back to full “distance selling” mode. Invoices to follow!!!

Open Day Bottles

The Springbank open day bottle, as you might know, sold out very quickly. However, we have a little of the Longrow open day bottle left, so if you are interested please let me know. The price is £45 plus p&p.

We also have some Glencairn Open Day glasses, £5 each or £25 for six plus p&p. We don’t have too many of these left, so if you fancy one or two or  even six, let me know and we’ll get them out to you.

Of course we still have some of the Society Glasses, again Glencairn, available only to Society members at the same price as the Open Day Glasses.

Upcoming events

Tiree Music Festival 24th & 25th July
World Pipe Band Championships, Glasgow Green 14 August
Whisky Fringe 14th & 15th August
Campbeltown Music Festival 19th to 22nd August
Whisky Live Glasgow 11th September

New Releases

The new Kilkerran Work in Progress is now available from our shop, you can e mail me or buy online if you would like to sample this year’s release.

Hazelburn 12y/o will be available in August this year. As soon as possible I will let you know the cost and send you the tasting notes.

New Distillery Manager

Gavin has been working closely with Frank McHardy and seems to be taking to his new post like a duck to water. I am sure Frank will be a great support to Gavin while he settles in to his new role as DA BIG BOSS.

Whisky Bar of the Year

Dram Magazine have awared Whisky Bar of the Year 2010 to Ardshiel Hotel in Campbeltown. We are delighted for Flora (who is a Society Member) and her business partner Marion. They have both worked very hard to build up their business and their popular whisky bar. www.ardshiel.co.uk

Whisky School

As well as everything else he’s up to Frank is busy organising the Whisky School for this year and next year. The dates for this year are w/c 28th November and w/c 5th December.

Next year the school will run for six weeks from w/c 15th May 2011. If you are interested in joining the whisky school please e mail me at whiskyschool@springbankwhisky.com and I will send you the relevant information and registration form.

If this year’s school is anything to go by, you will have a great time, working with our friendly team and making new like minded friends.

Well, that’s about it for now. I am still on the case for the hip flasks, I am trying to get a sample made up so that I can send photographs of how it will look. The Society bottle will soon be in the USA and I will e mail the details to our American members so that they can order their bottles.

Right now the sun is shining over Campbeltown - which is unusual, the last few weeks have been very bleak. Here’s hoping for a nice sunny, warm week end.

Slainte

Janet

See all that you’re missing by not being a member of the Springbank Society? Contact Janet at society@springbankwhisky.com for information on how to join and the many benefits!

HIGHLAND PARK LAUNCHES THIRD BOTTLING FROM THE ORCADIAN VINTAGE SERIES

Highland Park, the creators of the Best Spirit in the World*, have launched the third bottling from the distillery’s Orcadian Vintage Series - a 1970 Vintage.

First launched in autumn 2009, The Orcadian Vintage Series draws on the distillery’s connections with Orkney’s rich cultural heritage and the islands’ intriguing myths and legends, which the distillery has come to be a part of since it was established in 1798.

Matthew Turner, Global Controller of Highland Park said: “Following the success of the 1968 and 1964 Vintages, up to ten exclusive limited editions will be released over the next four years. The 1970 Vintage demonstrates the skilful hand-selection process carried out by our Whisky Maker Max McFarlane, to find casks from a specific year that, based on their maturity and exceptional character, will deliver consistency and Highland Park’s inimitable balance.”

Specifically chosen by Max McFarlane, the whisky has been created from seven casks which were laid down with new make spirit in 1970. All were refill casks comprising both butts and hogsheads, producing a total of just 1,800 bottles at natural cask strength of 48% abv.

According to Max McFarlane: “The refill casks used to create this Vintage have allowed the quality and delicate fragrance of the original new make spirit to shine through without being dominated by the wood notes.

“The bottling bursts with aromas of caramelised pineapple and lemon peel as well as Highland Park’s trademark balance of aromatic peat and heather honey sweetness. At natural strength it has an intriguing mix of vanilla and coriander seeds but a drop of water brings hidden peat smoke and cedar wood to the top. This single malt has a satisfyingly long sweet and spicy flavour that hangs on the palate.”

The liquid is bottled in a unique jet back glass adorned with a specially crafted silver embossed Pictish knot which circles the necker and banding. The distinctive pewter ‘H’ amulette completes the design.

The 1970 Vintage is presented in a naturally coloured oak wooden box finished to high specification cabinet quality. The box illustration celebrates Orkney’s Scandinavian heritage, inspired specifically by a carving in the Ringerike style on an 11th century tomb. The illustration is a combat motif featuring a dragon-like creature which is shown seizing a lesser beast.

The Highland Park 1970 Vintage is available in the UK from specialist independent whisky retailers, RRP £2,250.

Notes:

Tasting notes

Colour

A wonderfully rich and deep burnished gold still showing its clarity and brightness after all these years.

Nose

First nosed straight, the 1970 Vintage gives the signature honey sweetness you would expect from Highland Park. Next is a burst of caramelised pineapple quickly followed by a citrus kick from lemon peel. When water is added the sweet oak notes come through followed by the scent of nasturtium petals and spicy woodsmoke.

Palate

At natural strength it has an intriguing mix of vanilla and coriander seeds but a drop of water brings hidden toasted peat smoke and cedar wood to the top.

Finish

A satisfyingly long sweet and spicy flavour hangs on the palate before the palate dries making a long finish into exceptional.

1970

FIFA World Cup began in Mexico, often thought of as the finest tournament of all. The final was a triumph for free-flowing attacking football as the Brazil of Pelé, Carlos Alberto, Jairzinho, Rivelino and Tostão won 4-1 against Italy. As this was the third occasion on which Brazil had won the World Cup they were allowed to keep the Jules Rimet trophy permanently.

It was also a politically important year, as the Conservative Party won the UK General Election. Ted Heath became Prime Minister and subsequently took Britain into the EEC. In the USA, Richard Nixon signed an act making television cigarette advertising illegal; the act came into force the following year. Anwar Sadat became President of Egypt.

The Nobel Prize for Literature went to Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn “for the ethical force with which he has pursued the indispensable traditions of Russian literature.” Patton dominated the Academy Awards with ten nominations and seven wins, including Best Actor for George C Scott, Best Picture, Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. Ali McGraw in Love Story won Best Actress.

Highland Park

Established in 1798, Highland Park is one of the oldest Scotch whisky distilleries. More important than age though, is the combination of traditional whisky-making techniques with obsessive attention to detail that has made Highland Park arguably the most respected single malt in the world.

Five keystones contribute to making the Best Spirit in the World:

·         Hand-turned malt adds to the deliciously succulent, balanced layers of aromatic character found in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Aromatic peat gives a delectably seductive, luxuriant floral sweetness to Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Cool maturation enhances the smooth character of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Sherry oak casks contribute to the distinctive richness and multi-dimensional complexity of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Cask harmonisation ensures consistency and balance in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

Its range of 12, 15, 16, 18, 21, 25, 30 and 40 year old single malts is consistently acclaimed by connoisseurs and experts.  Highland Park has won a string of prestigious awards across its portfolio.

Awards and accolades

2010                   Global Whisky Ambassador of the Year – Gerry Tosh, Icons of Whisky Awards, Whisky Magazine

2005 & 2009    Best Spirit in the World – Highland Park 18 year old, F. Paul Pacult, Spirit Journal

2009                   World’s Best New Release – Highland Park 40 year old, World Whisky Awards, Whisky Magazine

2009                   Single Malt of the Year – Highland Park 21 year old, World Whisky Awards, Whisky Magazine

2007                   Distiller of the Year, San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Malt Maniacs Awards Update
August 16, 2010

The annual Malt Maniacs Awards began in 2003, in reaction to the large number of “chocolate medals” being awarded to everyday whiskies in commercial competitions. Not that they were bad whiskies, but the Malt Maniacs knew there were a lot better ones out there that simply had not been entered into competition.

From the beginning the Awards have been a little bit different.  Johannes van den Heuval and Serge Valentin began with the germ of an idea.  A lot of these competitions were held just to make money, they thought.  “You pay me 500 dollars, and I’ll give you a double gold medal” seemed to be the modus operandus.  So right from the start the Malt Maniacs Awards were free to enter. To ensure they send only their best, distillers are limited to three entries, while independent bottlers may enter up to 5 bottles from various distilleries.

Entries are received at a central location in France, then split into samples which are dispatched to judges, literally, around the world.  No clues are given as to what is in the bottles and the judges are strictly forbidden to talk among themselves until their scores are in.

Once the twelve judges have submitted their scores, awards are decided and on December 1 they are announced to the world.  Past winners range from everyday affordable whiskies such as Glendronach 15yo, Benrinnes 13yo, and Clynelish 12yo (turns out some of them really ARE very good), to the more esoteric independent releases.  Entries are divided into three price ranges to ensure every pocketbook can find affordable whiskies among the winners.

With the industry already showing so much interest in Malt Maniacs Awards 2010, consumers can look forward to knowing what whiskies really are the best of the best, just in time for Christmas shopping.

And to the judges … Gentlemen, start your noses!

The Malt Maniacs have once again thrown down the whisky gauntlet. Preparations are well underway for the eighth annual Malt Maniacs Awards.  And though the deadline for receipt of bottles is September 27, already more than 40 companies from six countries have committed to enter more than 125 bottles.  With judges coming from four or five continents this is truly an international whisky competition.

Some Malt Maniacs at lunch

http://www.canadianwhisky.org/

Hey, Whisky World, CanadianWhisky.Org says THANK YOU!

August 11, 2010

CanadianWhisky.org went public on Tuesday July 20 to an overwhelming welcome from the whisky community.  The new website, focuses on Canadian Whisky, providing visitors with news reviews, opinions, and most important, an opportunity to contribute their own commentary.

The top post so far include:

Introducing WhistlePig Rye

“Dave Pickerell is a true icon of the American whisky industry so when he declares Canada as the source of the world’s very best rye whisky, that’s news to be shouted from the rooftops.”

http://www.canadianwhisky.org/news-views/whistlepig-10-year-old-straight-100-rye-whiskey.html

Introducing Wiser’s Legacy

“John Philip Wiser, distiller. Born October 4, 1825, Trenton, New York; died April 30, 1911, Prescott, Ontario. Legacy: Wiser’s family of great Canadian whiskeys and now a brand new one.”

http://www.canadianwhisky.org/news-views/introducing-the-new-wiser’s-legacy-canadian-rye-whisky-45-alc-vol.html

Crown Royal Extra Rare Review

“A rich, weighty, hugely complex and skillfully structured whisky displaying ripe red fruit, fresh-cut oak, hot spices, dry grain, and violets. Rich & Oaky. ★★★★☆”

http://www.canadianwhisky.org/reviews/crown-royal-xr-extra-rare-40-alc-vol.html

Forty Creek Barrel Select Review

“Creamy, sweet corn whisky with dusty, earthy rye, ripe red fruits, sherry, sweet-and-sour sauce, floral perfume, ginger, cinnamon, hot pepper, and hints of citric peels. Fruity & Spicy. ★★★★”

http://www.canadianwhisky.org/reviews/forty-creek-barrel-select-40-alc-vol.html

Gibson’s Finest 18 year old Review

“Sweet, spicy oak and pine sawdust, rich in toffee, vanilla, and hot spicy pepper. Biscuits, with typical rye dustiness, spice, fruit, and just a drop of pickle juice. Rich & Oaky. ★★★★☆”

http://www.canadianwhisky.org/reviews/gibson’s-finest-rare-18-years-old-40-alc-vol.html

A huge canadianwhisky.org thank you to Whisky Intelligence, (Hey! That’s us!) Whisky Fun, Whisky Cast, Rob Allanson, Whisky Magazine, Dr. Whisky, Quebec Whisky Club, Chuck Cowdery, John Hansell, Malt Advocate, Straight Bourbon, Sku’s Recent Eats, Ralfy, Bourbon Enthusiast, Whisky Whisky Whisky, Het Whisky, The Ardbeg Project, Whisky Emporium, Bourbon Enthusiast, Glasgow Whisky, and so many others for your kind support.