Archive for 2013

New Horse Racing Event Tops Bardstown’s Spring Calendar – American Whiskey News

New horse racing event kicks off Bardstown’s Kentucky Bourbon Festival Sampler    

Spring events include bourbon, swing, festival, antiques and more bourbon

BARDSTOWN, KY – FEBRUARY, 2012 – A new horse racing and bourbon event joins the lineup of active fun this spring in Bardstown, the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” Racing With the Spirits charges down the video track on Fri., April 26, accompanied by bourbons from several distilleries. Spring also brings swing dancers, uniformed Colonials and 100 antiques dealers to this historic town located in central Kentucky. See Bardstown’s Calendar of Events.

Bourbon with a (new) twist

This year, Bardstown’s inaugural Racing with the Spirits event kicks off the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival Sampler. On Fri., April 26, join in an evening of horse racing videos with play money for betting at the Guthrie Opportunity Center. Sip bourbons and sample a selection of hors d’ oeuvres while enjoying music and prizes. Reservations suggested. Tickets: $45 per person. Info and tickets: 800-638-4877 #4 or online at www.KyBourbonFestival.com.

The next evening, April 27, imbibe in the Kentucky Bourbon Festival Sampler, a mellow evening tasting a variety of Kentucky bourbons and foods from area restaurants. Also held at the Guthrie Opportunity Center, the event runs from 6:30-9 p.m. Tickets: $40. Info and tickets: 800-638-4877 #4 or online at www.KyBourbonFestival.com

Ralfy Publishes Whisky Review #342 – Scotch Whisky News

www.ralfy.com has a grumble with Whisky Review 342 – Dalmore 21yo (Signatory)

caramel gets criticised   . . .  again !

Chill-filtration gets a chilly reception  . . .  again !

New Spirit Arrivals! February 2013 at Milroy’s of Soho – Scotch Whisky News

New Spirits Arrivals! February 2013

Springbank 21 year old

Springbank is famously distilled “two and half times” using malt that was dried for six hours over a peat fire then a further 24 hours over hot air.

Youthful expressions of Springbank are ever popular on our shelves, but the Springbank 21 year old is a rare creature indeed; this edition is the second of an annual release, and is limited to just 1,680 bottles. Aged in fresh sherry and refill sherry casks and bottled at 46% ABV.

Colour: Rich gold
Nose: Sherry is the dominant aroma, accompanied by classic Christmas cake ingredients of raisins, sultanas, almonds and marzipan. You could nose this all night, the possibilities are infinite.
Palate: Rich and creamy, bursting with flavour. Great oily texture like the previous edition. Concluding with a hint of treacle and salt. A whisky full of rich flavour that will not let you down.
Finish: Goes on and on, deliciously sweet. Develops on the tongue for eternity, evolving continuously.

Monkey Shoulder Gorillas

A blend of malt whiskies from three Speyside distilleries and made in batches of just 27 casks. Similarly to our Milroy’s of Soho Finest Blend, Monkey Shoulder is made from 100% malted barley, containing no grain. NOW AVAILABLE IN 4.5 litre GORILLAS! £26.50

Longrow, Rundlets & Kilderkins

Bottled at cask-strength of 51.7% ABV, after eleven years of aging in small casks.

Distillery notes:

Colour: Deep amber
Nose: Smoke is easy to identify from the beginning and is soon joined with medicinal notes and subtle burning embers. On returning to nose, sweetness such as toffee apple is more pronounced.
Palate: Both peat and smoke are detected yet it is simultaneously sweet, particularly toffee and fudge. This is followed with the taste of liquorice. Rich and oily from its maturation in small casks, it gives an impression of being older than its 11 years.
Finish: Long, smooth and sweet. Slow and lingering hint of peat with peat reaching a crescendo with a strong peaty aftertaste.
£60.00

More & More at K&L California – Whisky News

New Arrivals

United States – Bourbon and Rye

  • Dancing Pines Colorado Bourbon 750ml – 12 available ($46.99)
  • 2003 Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon 750ml ($24.99)

Back in Stock

Ireland – Irish and Blended Scotch

  • Tyrconnell 10 year Port Casks Single Malt Irish Whiskey      750ml ($79.99)
  • Tyrconnell Single Malt Irish Whiskey 750ml – 3      available ($33.99)

Scotland – Blended Scotch

  • Chivas Regal 25 year old Blended Scotch Whisky750ml ($349.99)
  • Samaroli Evolution 2011 Multi Vintage Pure Malt Scotch      Whisky 750ml – 5 available ($319.99)

Scotland – Single Malt Scotch

  • Glendronach 15 year old “Revival” Distillery      Bottling Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 5 available ($75.99)
  • Talisker Distiller’s Edition Single Malt Whisky 750ml –      8 available ($85.99)

K&L Wine Merchants
http://www.klwines.com
Phone: 877-KLWines (toll free 877-559-4637)
Email: wine@klwines.com
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

The Glenrothes Distillery Announces 2013 US Vintage Maker Competition – Scotch Whisky News

The Glenrothes Distillery Announces 2013 US Vintage Maker Competition

Contest will select two grand prize winners for a trip to Speyside and the opportunity of a lifetime

February 12, 2013 The Glenrothes is delighted to announce today’s launch of the 2013 US Vintage Maker Competition. Following the huge success of the 2012 competition, this year’s contest will result in two grand prize winners from the USA.  Each grand prize winner will receive a trip for him/her and one guest to Speyside, Scotland. The Glenrothes “Vintage Makers” will spend a week mastering single malt production, culminating in the creation of a new Glenrothes Vintage.

From February 12, 2013 until April 12, 2013, entrants can submit an essay of 750 characters or less and an image response to the prompt, “Share a Vintage Moment with The Glenrothes.” Winning entries will be selected based on the best representation of how The Glenrothes Distillery defines a Vintage Moment: A perfect combination of time, place, people and/or occasion when everything comes together to create a moment that will stay in the memory forever.

Grand prize winners will travel to The Glenrothes this summer and be hosted by Ronnie Cox, Keeper of the Quaich and The Glenrothes Brand Heritage Director.  Upon arriving, they will learn the time-honored art of whisky making and skills that have been passed down from generation to generation. The winners will spend time working at each stage of the process: testing the purity of the water source at the distillery’s two springs; milling the malt to achieve the golden proportions of husk, grits and flour; mashing to ensure maximum extraction of sugars in the wort; adding yeast to the washbacks and overseeing fermentation; and slowly and carefully distilling new make spirit in our tall copper pot stills.

The “Vintage Makers” will nose single malt from maturing casks to assess whether the contents are true of all The Glenrothes whiskies and exceptional in quality and maturity; only the top 3% of the distillery’s output is bottled as The Glenrothes Speyside Single Malt Whisky. Finally, the “Vintage Makers” will have the opportunity to create a new Vintage of The Glenrothes, to be released when it reaches the peak of maturity.  As an added bonus each of the lucky guests will produce their own selection of The Glenrothes – labeled with their own hand-written tasting notes.

When their work is done, our Vintage Makers will enjoy the simple pleasures that Speyside has to offer; a spot of fishing, dining in the local Highland restaurants or perhaps a picnic in the hills surrounding the distillery. The “Vintage Makers” will stay in Rothes House, a private home belonging to the family that owns The Glenrothes.

The Glenrothes is now available throughout the U.S. through Anchor Distilling. For more information on The Glenrothes or the 2013 US Vintage Maker Competition, please visit www.theglenrothes.com.

Abbreviated Rules

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCE OF WINNING. MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AND A RESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES TO ENTER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. BY ENTERING THE CONTEST YOU AGREE TO THE OFFICIAL RULES. Contest begins at 12:01 a.m. ET on February 12, 2013, and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. ET on April 12, 2013. To enter, visit www.theglenrothes.com, complete the entry form, submit an essay (750 characters or less) describing your “Vintage Moment”. All entries must be received by April 12, 2013 at 11:59:59 p.m. ET. For official rules (including how to enter and prize description), visit http://www.theglenrothes.com. Only one entry per person is permitted.  Sponsor: BB&R Spirits Ltd., 3 St. James’ Street, London SW1A 1EG. Share Responsibly.

About The Glenrothes

The Glenrothes is an award-winning Speyside Single Malt Whisky of exceptional quality from the town of Rothes in Speyside – Scotland’s whisky heartland.  Established in 1879, the distillery was known only to Master Blenders until the early 1990’s, and revered as a Class-A quality enhancer for their premium blends.  Today, only 3% of production becomes The Glenrothes single malt scotch whisky.  Each vintage is, by definition, rare and finite.  Currently available expressions in the US include: The Glenrothes Select Reserve – the House Style, Alba Reserve, Vintages 1998, 1995, 1988, 1978, and 1970 Extraordinary Cask.

Join the conversation at www.Facebook.com/TheGlenrothes or www.Twitter.com/TheGlenrothes.

About Anchor Distilling

Anchor Distilling Company aims to provide the bridge between discerning buyers and world’s finest spirits. A privately owned distiller and importer, Anchor boasts an artisanal portfolio with over 300 specialty products from nearly 20 countries.  All products are from multigenerational family-owned companies, and are sought by connoisseurs for their superior handcrafted artisanal qualities.  From a distilling perspective, Anchor Distilling is dedicated to creating very small batches of traditionally distilled spirits. www.AnchorDistilling.com

The 2013 Midlands Whisky Festival 13th April! – Scotch Whisky News

The Best Fest in the West…Midlands!

It’s now less than two months before we welcome customers and exhibitors to the Third Midlands Whisky Festival. Saturday April 13th 2013. Doors open at 12 pm.

Once again, we’ll have over 200 different whiskies on taste from an even larger number of suppliers than before. We’ve added some extra special rare “Dream Drams” for you to enjoy in your commemorative tasting glass.Standard tickets cost £35 per person. This year, we are welcoming visitors from further afield than ever, so please reserve your ticket in advance as capacity is limited! For further details, email david@nickollsandperks.co.uk or phone 01384 394518.  We look forward to being in touch again soon.

Kind regards

The Nickolls and Perks Team

Click HERE to buy your tickets:

Nickolls & Perks Ltd
37 Lower High Street
Stourbridge, West Midlands DY8 1TA
www..nickollsandperks.co.uk

Glendronach Whiskies at Single Malts Direct – Scotch Whisky News

Glendronach Whiskies

Glendronach distillery has had a long and colourful history. Established in 1826 by the eccentric James Allardice, the majestic distillery lies in the Glen of Forgue. The distillery lies in its own estate and the current owners, The Benriach Distillery Company, owns all the surrounding houses. There are five properties on the site including Glen House which was once the Laird of the estates’ own dwelling. Glen House is the oldest property onsite having been built in 1786.

The distillery prides itself on its traditional approach to the crafting of the spirit. Six still men work shifts 24 hours a day to ensure every millilitre of spirit is crafted with the utmost attention. Unlike a large portion of distilleries today, Glendronach is not run by computers, it is powered by passionate men driven to make the highest quality whisky possible. Glendronach, since its creation, has been a by word for sherried whisky. The spirit has always been aged in either Oloroso or Pedro Ximinez sherry casks from the best Bodegas in Spain. It was only recently that Glendronach released some different wood finishes but there emphasis remains focused on sherry finishing.

www.singlemaltsdirect.com

Scotch Malt Whisky Society of Canada “March First Friday Tasting” – Scotch Whisky News

Calling all SMWS members and non-members alike!

Sign up now for our March First Friday tasting to sample seven great new releases, nibble on some tasty treats and enjoy the company of fellow scotch-lovers. As always, there will also be some past releases available for sampling in case you missed them the first time around!

Really, what better way to spend a Friday night?
Space is limited so don’t delay!

Victoria First Friday Tasting

Friday, March 1st 6:30pm

$40+HST for SMWS members; $50+HST for non-members
The Strath Ales, Wines & Spirits
Register in person at
919 Douglas Street, Victoria
or by phone at 250-370-9463
or by email at whisky@strathconahotel.com

Colin & his crew look forward to seeing you!

The Whisky Exchange “Lost Distilleries at TWE Vinopolis” – Scotch Whisky News

Lost Distilleries at TWE Vinopolis

The new year is definitely under way and our tastings at TWE Vinopolis have entered a new phase. Over the last few years we’ve been focused heavily on branded tastings, with companies showing off their wares to an appreciative audience, … Continue reading >>

TRUE, UNCOMPROMISING BOURBON FOR TRUE BOURBON LOVERS: INTRODUCING THE FIRST RUSSELL’S RESERVE® SINGLE BARREL – American Whiskey News

TRUE, UNCOMPROMISING BOURBON FOR TRUE BOURBON LOVERS: INTRODUCING THE FIRST RUSSELL’S RESERVE® SINGLE BARREL

LAWRENCEBURG, KY (February 20th, 2013) – When it comes to whiskey making in the United States, Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie are America’s bourbon aristocracy. After an incredible 90 years combined experience distilling award-winning whiskey, the two are rolling out one of their richest and most flavorful bourbons to date: Russell’s Reserve® Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. This much anticipated bottling at a take-no-prisoners 110 proof is nonchill filtered, resulting in an unparalleled burst of flavor in every sip. As the crowning glory of America’s famed Wild Turkey bourbon family, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel promises to not only be the choice for bourbon connoisseurs, but it will also be what Jimmy and Eddie reach for time and time again. As they say in Lawrenceburg, “Our experience guarantees yours.”

What makes Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel unique is not only its high proof, but the fact that the whiskey bypasses the chill-filtration process. Chill-filtration is a common process whereby the whiskey is chilled at temperatures below freezing and is passed through an absorption filter thus removing fatty acids and other flavor contributors such as esters and proteins. By avoiding the chill-filtration process, the whiskey is bottled with more flavor compounds and a deeper color which is denoted by an impressive haze when ice or chilled water is added.

Every expression of Russell’s Reserve – both the Bourbon and rye Whiskey – is matured in only the deepest number 4 or “alligator” charred American white oak barrels to ensure the richest flavor and color. Jimmy and Eddie insist on this char level and are among only a handful of whiskey distillers who use it. The best aged whiskey barrels are hand selected by this legendary pair themselves and only from the center cut of the rick house – since that’s where the optimal maturation occurs. Adamant about quality, the Russell’s will only use the natural, weather-driven process for maturation – never air conditioned or heated “because it’s the right thing to do.”

“This is Bourbon at its best,” declares Jimmy Russell, Master Distiller. “What is incredibly special about the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is that each barrel has its own personality, but still captures the rich, creamy toffee vanilla style of Russell’s Reserve. This bottling celebrates what we love about Russell’s Reserve, but takes it to another level.” Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel delivers a burst of intense vanilla and hints of burnt orange, along with tastes licorice and anise seed, on the palate, culminating with a rich and long finish.

Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel (750ml) will be available nationwide at specialist liquor stores priced at $49.99. It will also be available in select bars and restaurants specializing in fine whiskies.

About Russell’s Reserve
Master Distiller, Jimmy Russell has been making bourbon in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky for more than 58 years and has joined the ranks of the greats when it comes to his uncompromising craftsmanship. Working alongside him is his son, Associate Master Distiller, Eddie, a relative newcomer with 32 years under his belt. Together they create the acclaimed Russell’s Reserve 10 Years Old small batch Kentucky straight bourbon and 6 Years Old Rye. Jimmy has worked at the distillery since 1954 and his devotion to his whiskey making runs in the family blood. His grandfather worked in the distilling business, as did his father before him. His son Eddie Russell now follows in his footsteps. Russell’s Reserve is testimony to the uncompromising approach that comes with over 90 years of combined experience.

About Campari America
Campari America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM). At the heart of Campari America are two legends in the American spirits industry. The first, Skyy Spirits, was founded in San Francisco back in 1992 by the entrepreneur who invented iconic SKYY Vodka. The second is the world-famous Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, where they have been making the world’s finest whiskies since the 1800’s. Both companies were purchased by Davide Campari-Milano and together they form Campari America, which has built a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Campari America manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Cynar®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®. Campari America is also the exclusive US distributor of Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, McClelland’s® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky, Hakushu® Single Malt Whisky, and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky. Campari America is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at www.campariamerica.com, www.facebook.com/campariamerica, Twitter: @CampariAmerica and www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy Campari America brands responsibly and in moderation. About Gruppo Campari Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (‘Gruppo Campari’), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. The Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. The Group’s portfolio, with over 50 brands, span spirits, the core business, wines and soft drinks. Internationally-renowned brands include Aperol, Appleton, Campari, Cinzano, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 14 plants and 4 wineries worldwide and has its own distribution network in 16 countries. The Group employs over 4,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: www.camparigroup.com


Powered by WordPress