Ireland – Irish

• John L. Sullivan 10 Year Old Irish Whiskey 750ml ($36.99)

Scotland – Irish and Blended Scotch

• Black Bottle Blended Islay Scotch Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($19.99)

Scotland – Single Malt Scotch

• Cardhu 12 year old Distillery Bottling 750ml ($49.99)

• Clynelish 14 Year Old Single Malt Whisky 750ml ($49.99)

• Dalwhinnie Distiller’s Edition Oloroso Cask Single Malt Whisky 750ml ($84.99)

• Longrow 18 year old, Campbeltown Single Malt Whisky 750ml (Previously $200) – 6 available ($179.99)

• Talisker 25 Year Old Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($549.99)

• 1985 Talisker 28 Year Old Maritime Edition Isle of Skye Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 5 available ($599.99)

• Talisker 30 year old Isle of Skye Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 4 available ($749.99)

United States – Bourbon and Rye

• Tuthilltown Hudson Baby Bourbon (375ml) – 12 available ($42.99)

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

THIS IS A SPECIAL YEAR IN OUR LONDON STORE 2015 Marks the 20th anniversary of Cadenhead’s Whisky Shop in London.

When we opened in Covent Garden 20 years ago nobody expected whisky to become the world wide success that we have seen it become today. It’s strange to see how the whiskies we sold 20 years ago become so collectable and expensive today on some collectors sites & auctions, what we offer as ordinary has become extraordinary. So lets have a look at some new iconic vintages due out very soon…

DEMOLISHED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

After a long wait the much wanted St. Magdalene is finally due out by the end of this month, I am told along with a few others under the Authentic range. This 32 Year old vintage from the long dismantled lowland distillery is going to be gone very fast, we can only allow 1 bottle per customer due to the already high demand. St. Magdalene distillery was opened in the late 1800s on the site of a former leper colony that dated back to the 1100s, the distillery was one of the first to have a licence to distil, sadly like so many others it was closed during the 1980s. When the distillery closed in 1983 the site was soon snapped up by developers who converted most of the distillery into housing but using the structure of the distillery rather than demolish and build again, mainly due to the historic significance of the site and protection of the buildings.

Imperial Distillery 1977 37 Year Old – 70cl / 53.5% Small Batch

Next on the list is Imperial 1977 vintage 37 years old, this is a dram that’s lost no power given its age. Founded in 1897 during the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria, I think we can safely guess its name was in no small part down to the jubilee. The distillery has closed several times but finally closed this century 2000 the site was fully cleared by 2012/13 with plans for a new distillery to be built on the site but it can’t be Imperial.

JAMESON UNVEILS NEW ANNUAL PACKAGING RELEASE

Jameson, the world’s favourite Irish whiskey, has unveiled the Good Workers, Great Whiskey limited edition carton; a new, annual series of packaging innovations celebrating the rich heritage of Jameson to help ensure maximum stand-out shelf appeal for the brand.

The Good Workers, Great Whiskey carton celebrates the craftspeople at the Midleton Distillery and the key elements of the Jameson production process through an eye-catching, illustrated style with the use of textured paper. The depiction of the Jameson Barrel Man, which appears on every bottle of Jameson and portrays the distillery’s workers, sits alongside iconography representing Jameson’s use of locally sourced barley, triple distillation method and maturation processes, which have come together to craft Jameson’s world-renowned, smooth taste profile since 1780.

Each addition to the collection will tell a different story inspired by Jameson’s centuries old whiskey making process and the people that make it possible, “the Barrelmen”, offering a unique in-hand, storytelling experience for consumers. The series is the latest piece of innovative marketing from Jameson as it aims to appeal to adventurous spirits drinkers, who are increasingly thirsty for knowledge about the craftsmanship, heritage and provenance of premium spirits.

POS collateral has also been developed to create theatre in store, including decoration for gondola ends and pallet displays, depicting graphic barrels and a distillery worker carrying a barrel inscribed with the slogan ‘Not a drop is sold until its liquid gold’.

Daniel Lundberg, Global Brand Director for Jameson Irish Whiskey, comments: “Jameson represents the benchmark for quality and consistency in the Irish Whiskey category; a vision that was laid down by John Jameson and realised to this day by the hard work, dedication and passion of the generations of workers at Jameson’s Bow St and Midleton Distilleries.

“Innovation remains at the core of all Jameson’s award-winning marketing activity and the Good Workers, Great Whiskey limited edition carton follows suit by marrying together the stories of our distillery workers and  production techniques through a modern, contemporary design.

The Good Workers, Great Whiskey limited edition bottle is available now in a number of markets worldwide. 

Notes

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between Irish whiskey distillers, John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and the Cork Distillery Company. In an attempt to reverse the decline in Irish whiskey sales, the company decided to consolidate production at a new purpose-built facility alongside the existing distillery in Midleton, Co. Cork. Irish Distillers was bought by Pernod Ricard in June 1988 and today, Jameson is the No.1 Irish whiskey in the world, selling over 4 million 9L cases worldwide and contributing more than any other Irish whiskey brand to the phenomenal global growth of the category. Irish Distillers is committed to driving continued, sustainable growth of the Irish whiskey category.

Irish Distillers’ portfolio of whiskeys is comprised of Jameson, the world’s no.1 Irish whiskey; Irish favourite Paddy; Powers, the robust super premium whiskey for discerning drinkers; and the much-acclaimed brands that comprise the Irish Distillers’ Prestige Collection – the Single Pot Still Whiskeys of Midleton which includes the Spot range (Green Spot, Yellow Spot) and Redbreast, Ireland’s most awarded single pot still whiskey brand – and the pinnacle of the Prestige Collection, Midleton Very Rare.

http://www.irishdistillers.ie/

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated sales of €7,945 million in 2013/14. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin & Spirit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector and employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people, operating through a decentralized organization with 6 ‘Brand Companies’ and 80 ‘Market Companies’ established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics. Pernod Ricard is listed on the NYSE Euronext exchange (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is a member of the CAC 40 index.

http://www.pernod-ricard.com/

Speyside’s Finest 100th Anniversary

50 year old 1964 vintage distilled at Glenfarclas Distillery. Single cask bottled on 18th December 2014 to mark the 100th anniversary of Fred Douglas Laing – founder of Douglas Laing & Co.

Glenfarclas 50 Year Old $453.37

This week Joe Ellis carries on his vertical tasting of the Springbank whiskies and reviews Hazelburn CV

http://youtu.be/Kh5I-iT2PIA

http://Twitter.com/whiskytube

https://www.facebook.com/whiskytube

Benrinnes 21 Year Old Distillery Edition Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 3 available ($399.99)

Cragganmore 25 Year Old Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($499.99

Macallan Royal Wedding Malt Whisky – 1 available ($4,999.99)

Port Ellen 35 Year Old Distillery Edition Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 5 available ($3,099.99)

Rosebank 21 Year Old 2014 Special Release Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 3 available ($449.99)

The Singleton of Glendullan 38 Year Old Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($1,199.99)

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

Beside the popular whisky sailing journeys along the Westcoast of Scotland the Thalassa will sail a most unique whisky expedition in 2015, starting from the rugged Westcoast, passing by the Northern treasures of Scotland and ending at the more quiet Eastcoast.

Decide to join our newest whisky expedition and visit within one week not only the West of Scotland (Islay), but also the beautiful North(Skye and Orkney) to end this spectacular holiday at the Eastcoast, Buckie. A journey that cannot be made with regular means of transportation is within reach by ship for you.

A rather unique combination of pure sailing pleasure with the most famous whisky distilleries of Scotland, this can only happen on board of tall ship Thalassa!

Would you like to experience such a special adventure in 2015? Take your chances and make your reservation inmediately!

Read more…

Program and prices whisky expedition

Start: Saturday 6th of June 2015 in TROON

End: Saturday 13th of June 2015 in BUCKIE

Price: € 995,- per person

The whisky expedition includes:

– 7 overnight stays on board in a double cabin, each with its own shower;

– all meals during the journey (breakfast, lunch and dinner);

– drinks during the meals (coffee. tea, milk and water) and

– 2 whiskytastings on board, presented by whisky experts.

Not included are alcoholic beverages (whisky, wine and beer), soft drinks, the entrance tickets to the whisky distilleries or attractions ashore. Also you are responsible for arranging your means of transportation to and back from Scotland, these costs are not included in the price for this whisky expedition.

Sailing schedule whisky expedition

The journey starts in Troon, on the Westcoast of Scotland and ends in Buckie, at the Eastern coast of Scotland.

Day 1: Embarkation in Troon, leave for Islay

Day 2: Port Ellen, visit numerous distilleries, at evening head towards Bunnahabhain

Day 3: Visit distillery of Bunnahabhain, leave North to Skye

Day 4: Visit Tallisker distillery, sail towards Orkney

Day 5: Prolong journey to Okrney, sleep over in Stromness

Day 6: Orkney, visit distilleries of Highland Park and Scapa

Day 7: Sail to Buckie

Day 8: Disembarkation in Buckie

NB: The definite sailing route depends on wind and weather conditions. Because of thisthe ship’s captain has the right to change this schedule if necessary. 

The ship

During the trip the guests are facilitated on board of tall ship Thalassa in one of the 15 high quality double cabins, each with a private shower.

With her 14 sails , altogether 800 square metres, tall ship Thalassa makes an ipressive appearance. Rigges according to century-old traditions and equipped according to the latest security regulations , tall ship Thalassa is extremely safe and seaworthy.

Information and online booking

More information about this whisky expedition can be found on our special website http://www.whiskyzeilreizen.nl/index_uk.php. For further questions  please contact us by email or phone: +31 – (0)10 – 4156600. Click here to book this journey online.

Welcome on board!

HOLLANDS GLORIE

Liesbeth Wammes – de Graaf

Brigitte Beckers

Cask No. 2.88                         $180

Cinderella weeping over matchmakers

Speyside, Spey

The nose presented rich, fruity, cakey sweetness – black bun, Christmas cake, treacle tart, ginger snaps and maple candy – along with some oak and vanilla notes. The palate was intensely sweet, with muscovado sugar, dark chocolate and treacle, but with an Indian spice trick up its sleeve (cumin, clove, sugar-coated fennel seeds) – then some ash, dry wood and coffee on the finish. The reduced nose contrasted hints of burnt tyres with assorted chocolate matchmakers (mint, orange, coffee). The palate now had ginger and chocolate sweet heat, while cinders and salt evoked a tearful Cinderella. The distillery had a major expansion in 2010.

Drinking tip: With coffee as an after dinner treat

Colour: Deep honeycomb

Cask: Refill hogshead

Age: 20 years

Date distilled: September 1993

Alcohol: 47.1%

USA allocation: 120 bottles

Cask No. 7.101                               $105

Playing with Colours

Speyside, Lossie

To begin with all the aromas were white; chocolate, pepper, marshmallows, vanilla ice cream and natural yoghurt. Slowly colour was added; lemon and lime, bananas, strawberries as well as other fruits of the forest. The taste was hot and peppery, white chilli chocolate but at the same time sweet, fruity and sour like Haribo Tangfastics – quite an experience. With water the fizziness of a cream soda and carbonating fruits with dry ice appear alongside the creaminess of a pineapple milkshake and a key lime pie. The taste changed completely, extremely smooth like a dollop of rum and raisin ice cream with a hint of cinnamon.

Drinking tip: Enjoy the difference neat and with water

Colour: Winter sunshine

Cask: First-fill barrel

Age: 10 years

Date distilled: May 2003

Alcohol: 60.2%

USA allocation: 60 bottles

Cask No. 26.99                               $185

The Fisherman’s Friend

Highland, Northern

One of our panel members indulges in a spot of angling and instantly recognised the aromas of waxed jackets, wicker basket and oiled fishing reels. Crushed nettles and citronella candle, along with Autumnal orchards completed the riverbank scenario. The mouthfeel started with cooling starfruit and lemon drizzle cake, then slowly a honeycomb warmth crept over the tongue with stealth. Raisins plumped with cola, fruit salad sweeties and Black Jacks emerged when water was added, with some Springtime florals. A hint of flaxseed oil but overall deliciously juicy and distinctly moreish.

Drinking tip: The panel preferred this without the river water

Colour: Toasted waffles

Cask: Refill barrel

Age: 23 years

Date distilled: August 1990

Alcohol: 48.5%

USA allocation: 117 bottles

Cask No. 59.49                               $240

Celebration in a glass

Highland, Northern

Calming and relaxing were the first comments after a long silence in the Panel. One could literally hear the deep breathing – aromas of treacle sponge, roasted chestnuts, beeswax, roasted orange slices, and a tropical rum trifle. The taste has depth layers of flavour which are all subtle and harmonizing creating an experience that is hard to describe; tangy marmalade, Prosciutto ham served with melon balls soaked in brandy as well as a well-aged Riesling. With a drop of water now like a Trockenbeerenauslese, rich texture but also juicy, enormous weight and depth and an almost salty tanginess at the finish – you just have to experience that!

Drinking tip: Life in itself is worth one big celebration

Colour: Liquid centre of a Locket

Cask: Refill hogshead

Age: 30 years

Date distilled: November 1983

Alcohol: 49.2%

USA allocation: 90 bottles

Cask No. G7.7                        $160

Old Codger with a Jammy Dodger

Grain

An unusual old character brimming with rich honey, plums infused with cinnamon and saffron. The panel found wet wool along with earthy aromas. The taste neat was of Jammy Dodgers and melted stroopwafel, then slightly burned toast with sweet jam and hints of mint. The chair was reminded of the aromas of the shortbread factory in Aberlour High Street with bagfuls of vanilla pods, maple syrup and creme brulee. It remained lively with fig and peach giving out to toasted banana bread, and fruit scones. ‘Old Spice’ aftershave mingled in the finish, still plenty of pep in this pensioner.

Drinking tip: When you fancy something unusual

Colour: Buffed brass candlesticks

Cask: Refill hogshead

Age: 30 years

Date distilled: May 1984

Alcohol: 59.4%

USA allocation: 72 bottles

www.smwsa.com

Scotland’s Favourite Son

Affectionately known as ‘Scotland’s favourite son’ or ‘the Bard of Ayrshire’, the romantic poet and lyricist Robert Burns is responsible for some of Scotland’s most enduring verse and ballads. Although he died in 1796, Burns’ work with its messages of love, freedom and humanity remains as relevant now as during his lifetime. Uncover the origins of Burns Night, and how this humble famer’s son rose to such prominence in our article.

Since they began in the eighteenth century, Burns Nights have featured the Bard’s stirring prose, fine haggis and an exceptional single malt. While these remain vital elements to any evening, we’ve refined what makes Burns Night unmissible here at The Glenlivet and we’ll share the elements with you. If you want to enjoy an unforgettable Burns Night The Glenlivet way, simply follow our guide.

It doesn’t matter whether you celebrate Burns Night with friends or alone, during bleak Scottish winter or in Taiwanese sun so long as you celebrate it. Simply recite the Bard’s inspiring verse and raise a glass of your favourite single malt on 25th January. We can’t think of a better toast for The Glenlivet.

Discover Burns Night, The Glenlivet way