Chivas Regal Art of Blending Event – Wednesday 19th March 2014

Whisky blending is a real skill, and we are very keen to encourage more people to recognise just how good blends can be, so we are delighted that on Wednesday 19th March Phil Huckle, Brand Ambassador for Chivas Regal, will be coming along to show you how Chivas marry together single malts and grain whiskies from different parts of Scotland to create whiskies that are greater than the sum of their parts.

The evening will give you an insight into how Master Blender, Colin Scott, works with over 30 mature, meticulously selected and high quality whiskies to create the consistently excellent Chivas Regal 12. You’ll be working with five malts from Speyside, Islay, the Highlands and Lowlands, sampling the incredible melody of flavours and blending them to create your own whisky – a unique creation that you can then take away with you. Who knows, you may just find that you have a hidden talent for blending whisky and a whole new career awaits…

Phil is extremely knowledgeable about not just the whiskies but also the stories behind them so this will be an entertaining as well as an educational evening. Numbers are limited to just 40 people for this event. Tickets are £25 – to include canapés on arrival and your own, unique whisky to take away with you.

Please note
Tickets for the Chivas Regal Art of Blending event will not be available to buy until 12 noon on Thursday 13th February and no bookings will be taken before this time. Also, due to the restricted amount of tickets available the maximum number of people per booking is 4.

If you have any queries please just contact us.

Sláinte!
Fran and Ken
Arkwrights Whisky and Wines
www.whiskyandwines.com

UPCOMING EVENT
Name Chivas Regal Art of Blending Event
Date Wednesday 19th March 2014

Time 7pm for 7.30pm
Venue Stanton House Hotel, Stanton Fitzwarren SN6 7SD
Details Admission to the tasting is by ticket only, and most of the whiskies tasted will be available to purchase on the night so come prepared. Tickets are £25 per person, and this also entitles you to a discount of £3 against a bottle of one of the featured whiskies if bought or ordered on the night of the tasting. Tickets are very strictly limited, and allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and Arkwrights reserve the right to restrict the number of tickets per customer. To buy tickets just log on to www.whiskyandwines.com from 12 noon on Thursday 13th February. Please be aware that these events sell out very quickly (last time within 45 minutes!) and this is why we give advance notice of when the tickets will be released. Please note, we cannot accept provisional bookings and payment must be made when booking. Refunds for tickets are not available except in exceptional circumstances. N.B. We have negotiated special rates at the hotel for anyone who wants to stay overnight after the tasting – click here for further details.

Lot 40 2012 Release Canadian Rye Whisky 750ml ($59.99)

Voted Canadian Whisky of the Year by the Whisky Advocate, Lot 40 is considered by many to be the quintessential Canadian rye whisky, garnering heaps of praise and a cult-like following. Distilled by Hiram Walker, now run by Pernod Ricard, it was briefly discontinued in the early 2000s, which set off a Pappy-esque manhunt by consumers who knew of its excellence (not in CA, however, where we were deprived of its presence). Now that it’s been relaunched by Pernod, we’re lucky enough to start getting a healthy supply in the U.S. It’s clear after tasting it why the Lot 40 has the reputation it has. The flavors of rye are unbelievably pure, while the palate remains soft and creamy underneath. It moves from rye bread into a peppery note so intense that it almost transcends into sweet citrus before finishing rich and floral. It’s the most exciting rye we’ve seen hit the shelves in more than year. We think it’s going to be a HUGE hit. Esteemed Canadian whisky writer Davin de Kergommeaux calls it “a contemporary masterpiece, seven generations in the making. This is one powerfully flavorful whisky that boldly mingles the galvanizing piquancy of distilled rye grain with the soaring floral fragrance of malted rye, and a fruitiness that comes with age.” We call it the best rye whiskey we’ve tasted since stalwarts like Sazerac 18 and older Willett bottles became dreams rather than reality. This is can’t-miss stuff. This is the kind of whiskey where you buy three bottles rather than one.

Mike Barber | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 20, 2014

Now that’s some good drinkin’! This rye is rich and delicious, with vanilla and chocolate notes over classic rye leather and cracked pepper–perfect on its own or for all your Manhattan needs. Not as sweet as some of the LDI stuff coming out of Indiana, not as dry as some of 100% rye Rittenhouse styled whiskeys in our store–it’s just right.

Mahon McGrath | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 20, 2014

Unctuous and rich, this Canadian Rye packs in an intriguing array of flavors that stays true to the character of the grain. Style-wise, it skews to the sweeter side of things, with a fat mid-palate, and a supple, seamless texture. This is definitely the best new addition to the–of recent days–rather un-crowded field of contemplative, sipping Rye Whiskeys that I’ve had occasion to sample.

Sarah Covey | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 15, 2014

All the spice and flash of Rye that I love, with a vanilla, caramel, clove and cigarbox undernote with a soft, sweet finish. AWESOME!

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 15, 2014

Like other “American” rye whiskies, such as Whistle Pig, Masterson’s, and Jefferson’s, the Lot 40 showcases more of that great Canadian-distilled rye whiskey backstock. I was blown away by this whisky when I tasted it. Then I read Davin de Kergommeaux’s amazing review and learned about the story behind the brand. This has been one of the most talked about whiskies by Canadian and European collectors for years. For the entire back story, check out Davin’s post here: http://www.canadianwhisky.org/reviews/lot-no-40-2012-release-43-alcvol.html

Gary Westby | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 15, 2014

Great rye whiskey is not easy to come by at any price and great Canadian rye is even harder to find. This Lot 40 is clearly the best rye in the store and one of the best that I have tasted in a decade. With a wonderful bouquet of Christmas spice and a complex array of flavors, this Canadian will please the pickiest of whiskey fans. The fact that it still comes across as easy going and moreish even with the wild rye flavor and layers of complexity made a big impression on me. I will make room in my cabinet!

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

www.ralfy.com discovers how unpeated can be peaty with Whisky Review 429 – Caol Ila 14yo (unpeated malt)

IRISH WHISKEY CHEER CONTINUES AS JAMESON REVEALS

NEW LIMITED EDITION FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY 

Jameson, the world’s favourite Irish whiskey, is celebrating its rich Irish heritage ahead of St Patrick’s Day with the release of a new Limited Edition design for its iconic bottle, inspired by the sights, sounds and atmosphere of its hometown, Dublin.

The new limited edition bottle, which is the fourth to be released by Jameson in celebration of St Patrick’s Day, has been designed by award-winning Irish illustrator, Dermot Flynn, and will be sold in 40 markets worldwide – demonstrating the continued growth and popularity for Irish whiskey, driven by the ever-increasing popularity of this iconic brand.

Dermot’s illustrated label features the world-renowned Dublin pub, The Stag’s Head; historical figures such as W.B Yeats; and a selection of ‘local Dublin’ phrases to bring the city to life. The bottle has been created for this limited period and will be available in Travel Retail and through on and off trade customers in markets including Russia, Japan and Australia from February 2014.

Daniel Lundberg, Global Brand Director for Jameson, says: “In addition to its smooth, balanced taste, one of the things that whiskey fans around the world tell us they love about Jameson is its intrinsic Irish character. Jameson embodies the down-to-earth character of Dubliners so with this new limited edition, we wanted to bring that to life and celebrate the great city which inspired John Jameson to make his now iconic whiskey for the first time over 230 years ago. The new bottle design has been very well-received by our customers around the world resulting in more markets than ever selling this year’s edition, so we’re hopeful that Irish whiskey fans around the world will love it too and make it a part of their special St Patrick’s Day celebrations, wherever they may be.”

The release of the new Jameson Limited Edition will be accompanied by promotional activity in markets, with the brand providing its customers with a range of marketing materials and displays to ensure strong stand-out for the iconic bottle in the run up to St Patrick’s Day, which is celebrated each year on 17th March.

Jameson will be continuing its popular Jameson St Patrick’s Live celebrations this year with activity including its annual Live Broadcast, which sees presenters from radio stations from around the world descending on Dublin to broadcast live from the Old Jameson Distillery on St Patrick’s Day; and an exclusive gig in the city, featuring various leading Irish acts and headlined by the critically-acclaimed band, White Lies.

About Jameson

Jameson is the world’s No 1 Irish whiskey. Award-winning as a result of its exceptional smoothness following its unique triple distillation process, Jameson is enjoyed in more than 120 countries worldwide. The core Jameson range includes Jameson; Jameson Select Reserve; Jameson Gold Reserve; Jameson Signature Reserve (Travel Retail exclusive) and Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve.

For further information please visit http://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/

Price: £30.00
Date: Friday 21st February
Time: 7:30PM
Location: N&P Cellars

Book Tickets Online

As Colin Dunn has said, ‘Whisky to me is all about meeting the people at the Distilleries, getting their stories and passing them on. Also the best feeling in the world when I do tastings, is when somebody “gets it”.’

Colin is well known to Nickolls and Perks and makes a welcome return to our cellars on Friday 21st February to conduct one of his inimitable Masterclasses.

The line up of super and rare drams is now as follows:

Introduction with the scarce Mortlach 16 year old Flora & Fauna

Diageo 2013 special releases:

Cardhu 1991 21 yo £215
Caol Ila cask strength £85
Talisker 1985 28yo £525
Singleton 1985 28yo £255
Lagavulin 12yo cask £95

You’re guaranteed to enjoy fabulous whiskies together with the stories that go with them. For further information, email David Gardener or phone him on 01384 394518.

Universal Whisky Experience Nth 2014

Master Classes Now On sale + Added Bonus Special Event on Friday April 4th 2014 NTH 2014

MASTER CLASSES NOW ON SALE! Our Master Classes are just one of the many features of Nth 2014 that makes this the ultimate luxury whisky event of the year!

Our popular Master Classes are available a la carte or as part of the Nth 2014 High roller Ticket and promise to sell out quickly. Be sure to secure your Master Class selections early to avoid disappointment.

http://www.universalwhiskyexperience.com/masterclass  

ADDED BONUS SPECIAL EVENT – FRIDAY 4TH APRIL 4.15PM – 5.15PM (Chopin 1 & 2)

Orphan Barrel Whiskey Launch Event

Be among the select few to sample the first releases from The Orphan Barrel Whiskey Distilling Co. including Old Blowhard, a beautifully aged 26-year old Kentucky Bourbon and Barterhouse, an incredible 20-year old liquid. As you sip, you will enjoy a spirited debate led by a team of whiskey experts about the process of aging whiskey and a behind-the-scenes peek at how these barrels were formed.

UK vlogger Joe Ellis from Whisky Wednesday reviews Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2006 

http://youtu.be/6ozkIj3PI-A 

http://Facebook.com/whiskytube 

http://Twitter.com/whiskytube

BALLANTINE’S ENCOURAGES ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT WITH THE BAR PROJECT

 Ballantine’s offers the French public a chance to create the bar of their dreams,

which will be brought to life for a limited period in the heart of Paris  

Ballantine’s, the world’s No. 2 Scotch whisky, is aiming to capture the imagination of aspiring entrepreneurs with the launch of The Bar Project; a competition which offers consumers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the bar of their dreams brought to life in Paris later this year.

Inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, George Ballantine, The Bar Project by Ballantine’s is being piloted in France and sees the brand challenge budding entrepreneurs in the country to design a bar which is a true reflection of their personality. 

Entries will be judged by a panel of leading French business, design and bar experts including renowned French interior designer, Laura Leonard, and Simon Baldeyrou, CEO of Deezer, one of the world’s leading music streaming services. The three most innovative entries as judged by the panel will then be put to the public vote in May. The overall winner will then see their concept brought to life in the famous Parisian club, “Le Chacha”, opening with a VIP launch event in September 2014 and remaining open to the public until mid-October 2014. 

The Bar Project by Ballantine’s is in line with the brand’s new global positioning, ‘Stay True, Leave an Impression’ which it revealed in October 2013. 

Peter Moore, Global Brand Director for Ballantine’s, comments: “With The Bar Project by Ballantine’s, we wanted to create something exciting and inspiring that truly captures the essence of our brand. Our founder, George Ballantine, was very much an entrepreneur of his time and as such, he always stayed true to his convictions. This ethos remains at the heart of Ballantine’s to this day, so we’re excited to be bringing it to life with The Bar Project. 

“We’re hopeful that French consumers will relish this opportunity to unleash their creativity and their entrepreneurial spirit to leave an impression on the bar trade, just as George Ballantine did when he created our iconic blended whisky.” 

Entries into The Bar Project by Ballantine’s are open now via www.ballantinesbarproject.fr and will remain open until midnight on 22^nd March 2014. Ballantine’s is supporting the competition by partnering with French popular culture magazine and website, ‘Le Bonbon’, and with music streaming site Deezer to drive consumers to the Facebook app. 

A video about The Bar Project by Ballantine’s can also be viewed here and embedded into news pieces using the embed code:

<iframe src=”//player.vimeo.com/video/85234375″ width=”500″ height=”281″ frameborder=”0″ webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe> 

Notes

About the Competition

Entrants to the competition must be over 18 years and reside in France at the time of entry. Full Terms and Conditions apply and can be found at www.ballantinesbarproject.fr. 

About the Judging Panel

Simon Baldeyrou, CEO of Deezer

Simon Baldeyrou began his career as an investment banker, later going on to work in the world of sport; first as founder of two consultancies in marketing and finance for brands, sport clubs and sport federations, then as Finance Director of the Rugby World Cup 2007 Organizing Committee. He founded SBA Conseil, a specialist marketing consultancy, before being seduced by the power of Deezer, joining the company in September 2009 as COO of the Group. In June 2012, he was appointed CEO of Deezer in France.

Laura Leonard, Designer and Interior Architect

Laura began her career as a set designer for various TV shows, including the hugely popular reality TV show, Star Academy. She has created the sets on tours for popular musicians including Johnny Hallyday and Christophe Maé, as well as for numerous theatre productions in and around Paris. Furthermore, she has also been involved in the redesign of a number of Parisian bars and hotels, including Le Rosie, the popular bar owned by actor and socialite, Nicolas Ullman, and the renowned L’Hôtel du Temps.

Hirmane Abdoulhakime, Artistic Director of Le Chacha Club

Appointed Artistic Director of Le Chacha in February 2013, Hirmane Abdoulhakime has been responsible for reviving the venue and cementing its place on the Paris “must-go” list. He also founded “Trust the Buzz”; a platform used to identify future trends and showcase new talent, with events to date held in Paris, New York and Mexico.

Mathieu Deslandes, Marketing Director at Pernod Ricard

Mathieu Deslandes is Marketing Director of Pernod, the market company responsible for growing the Ballantine’s brand within France. With more than 20 years of marketing experience within the Pernod Ricard Group, both in France and internationally, Mathieu has worked across a number of premium and local products globally and locally, from Martell to Pastis. For Mathieu, innovation is a priority in all of its forms; from product innovation and consumption to consumer experience.

About Le Chacha Club

Le Chacha is situated in the heart of Paris’s first district, a key feature of the nightlife scene. A restaurant, bar and nightclub, the décor evokes a 1930s apartment with the various rooms lending themselves to a range of uses, from showrooms to fashion shoots and even music studios. The winner of The Bar Project by Ballantine’s will be given the opportunity to transform the first floor of Le Chacha; 45 square meters will be converted into a new look in line with the winner’s vision.

About Ballantine’s

Ballantine’s is the No. 1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the world’s No. 2 Scotch whisky by volume, and the range sells over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 120 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by the latest in a tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827.

About Chivas Brothers

Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits. Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport.

For further information http://www.chivasbrothers.com/

The February Outturn has arrived – just in time to warm you up in these chilly temps! An overview of the seven new releases is below; for more detailed tasting notes and to purchase please visit http://www.smws.ca/.

Cask No. 1.172 Sophisticated, delicate and feminine

19 years old; refill hogshead; 55.7%

The sweet fresh nose has elderflower, white jelly babies, heather soap, pot-pourri and scented candles – complicated by tobacco, marmalade and aromatic duck.The palate is sweet (toffee, honey, poached pears) but with spicy fruit (apple chutney), perfumed sandalwood and flowers.

Cask No. 2.83 Intense explosion of taste

19 years old; refill hogshead; 55.2%

The nose is interesting and full – summer fuits, maple syrup, Turkish Delight, tobacco and old books; black-jacks and foamy shrimps with water. On the palate, tuttu-fruitti bubble gum, apple sours, blackcurrant and lavendar honey detonate with gingerbread, cinnamon and treacle scones.

Cask No. 26.71 The great outdoors

25 years old; refill sherry butt; 57.3%

The fresh nose has chalk, shellfish and fruit (starfruit, bananas, nectarines) with sea breeze and menthol, becoming soapy and savoury with water. A salty and waxy taste with citronella, seaweed and bacon; water softens with marshmallows and lemongrass.

G8.2 Spun sugar and spooned honey – mmm!

23 years old; refill hogshead; 62.4%

The comforting and luxurious nose suggests toffee, butterscotch, creme caramel and vanilla ice-cream – also hay, red berries and roast beef – spicier with water. The palate is mellifluously mouth-coating, with strawberry sauce, hot fudge, rum and raisin, new wood and spooned honey.

3.197 Body shop and bath salts

14 years old; refill sherry butt; 55.6%

Fresh and mineralic – bath salts, limestone, an up-market spa – with some light toffee; laundered towels and a clean smokiness with water. The texture is smooth, the taste sweet then smoky, with flowering currants in the aftertaste.

93.54 Manly, robust and reassuringly honest

10 years old; refill barrel; 58.2%

The nose has coal, hessian, honey, coconut, seaweed, garages and minty sweetness; peppery herbs, Manzanilla and lemon with water. The palate is manly, robust and reassuringly honest – ash, pepper, bitter chocolate, orange rind and woollen mitts.

127.32 A manly dram

10 years old; refill barrel; 65.2%

Big nose – medicinal, tarry, smoky, creosote, pine cones, harbours, caramelized parsnips, burnt toast, seared scallops, vanilla, HP sauce on bacon rolls, coffee, cinnamon, moth balls. Bigger taste – tiger balm, tar, smoke, ash, embers, charred mackerel, toffee sauce, dark chocolate gingers.

For more tasting notes and to purchase visit http://www.smws.ca/  (Visit the Society and join today!)

Highland Park Freya