Jim Beam® Urban Stillhouse Presents Interactive Tableside Cocktails

Louisville, Kentucky – March 21, 2017 – Cocktails in Kentucky just got more delicious. The Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse proudly debuts a premier tableside cocktail experience, “raising the bar” for bourbon tastings and at-home mixology. Featuring classic and contemporary drinks created by a “cocktail concierge,” the program marks an evolution of Jim Beam’s downtown Urban Stillhouse and celebrates one of the first Kentucky bourbon distilleries to offer cocktails for visitors.

“The Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse has grown from a best-in-class micro-distillery and retail space,” said Kim Bennett, Senior Director, Kentucky Beam Bourbon Experiences, Beam Suntory. “It’s now also where more than 220 years of Jim Beam history come to life in refreshing cocktails, giving long-time fans and curious newcomers a unique tasting experience.”

The tableside experience combines select Jim Beam^® Bourbons with a trio of non-alcoholic mixers, garnishes and glassware to help legal purchase-age guests craft the perfect drink. Featured bourbon cocktails will rotate monthly, presenting visitors with a variety of traditional and modern options showcasing the entire Jim Beam family of brands.

“In addition to enjoying a cocktail in a special location, we’re educating our guests about how to enjoy our brands at home,” added Bennett. “Whether stiring up a Jim Beam Bourbon Mint Julep for your Derby party or mixing a Knob Creek^® Bourbon Whiskey Sour at your next barbeque, our cocktail team will teach you how to impress friends and family with newly attained skills and knowledge.”

The new guest offering is anticipated to boost traffic and enhance Louisville’s Fourth Street experience while promoting responsible consumption.

About the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse

Located 25 miles from its flagship distillery in Clermont, Ky., the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse operates as a small working distillery and visitors’ experience like no other, with special features that include:

A distillation system showcasing a small copper pot still with a unique rectifying column and see-through glass vapor condenser;

Interactive displays and décor that immerse Bourbon enthusiasts in the Jim Beam^® brand and educate them on the fine nuances of whisky making;

A one-of-a-kind tasting bar crafted from reclaimed wood and designed to reflect barrel staves and flowing bourbon;

A sculptural American Oak tree built from barrel staves. The tree features a canopy crafted from laser-cut steel leaves and illuminated Jim Beam bottles, symbolic of the First Family of Bourbon;

A full retail store offering branded items, as well an opportunity for guests to label, fill and customize their own 375ml or 750ml bottle of Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse Select (50% alc./vol.; SRP: $29.99 and $45.99 respectively).

The Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse is located at 408 S. Fourth St., Louisville, Ky., and is open Monday through Saturday 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Closed on Sundays, New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

For additional Jim Beam Bourbon cocktail experiences, visitors can stop by the Jim Beam Bourbon Bar at the Jim Beam^® American Stillhouse in Clermont, Ky. Opened in September 2016, the cocktail bar has become a popular spot along the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail^® tour.

More information about the Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse and the Jim Beam American Stillhouse is online at http://www.jimbeam.com/ or on Facebook and Twitter.

About Beam Suntory Inc.

As the world’s third largest premium spirits company, Beam Suntory is Crafting the Spirits Brands that Stir the World.  Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands and Suntory whisky Kakubin, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek bourbon, Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki Japanese whiskies, Teacher’s, Laphroaig, and Bowmore Scotch whiskies, Canadian Club whisky, Courvoisier cognac, Hornitos and Sauza tequila, EFFEN and Pinnacle vodka, Sipsmith gin, and Midori liqueur.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and commitment to Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit http://www.beamsuntory.com/ and www.drinksmart.com

Malt Messenger No. 73 – Spring Tasting Schedule & Exciting New Whiskies

This edition of the Malt Messenger has some exciting new whisky releases included in it, but the even bigger news is that our full Spring Tasting Schedule is now out, and open for registration! I have provided detailed descriptions of all of our Spring 2017 whisky and spirits tastings below. You can register in store, by phone 403-283-8000 or online!

Hunter’s Classic Malts  tasting on the 11th is almost sold out, but there is much more in store this month. The nine oldest whiskies of the Glendronach Batch 14 Vertical will be sampled on April 13, and we have a very cool Chateau Montifaud Cognac tasting coming up on Thursday the 20th with Sophie Cabanes from the distillery. It has been a while since we’ve shown some love to Asian whiskies, and so we have planned an East of Scotland tasting scheduled for Tuesday April 25. That tasting will feature some rare new single malts from Kavalan and Amrut, as well as some cool Japanese and Australian whiskies. And that is just April…

May and June are loaded with even more great whisky and spirits events to help us mark our 25th Anniversary. On Friday May 26th George Grant will be in store for a pair of back to back Glenfarclas Tastings. In June we are welcoming John Glaser of Compass Box to KWM for a pair of tastings to launch our Compass Box KWM Collaboration Blend! There are more details on all of the above events and many more below. Don’t hesitate too long to book your tickets for the Spring Single Malt Festival,Thursday June 8, it always sells out early!

In other whisky event news, Kensington Wine Market and the Scotch Malt Whisky Society have paired with Ghost River Theater for a unique tasting opportunity on Tuesday May 2 at Last Best Brewery. This Multi-Sensory Scotch Whisky Tasting will include 5 Scotch Malt Whisky Society single malts in a one of a kind tasting experience. Tickets are $150 with all proceeds going to Ghost River Theater. Tickets for Tasting Scotch are available online! KWM’s last collaboration tasting with Ghost River was a hit and we expect this event will be too. More details below.

Our own Evan Eckersley will be at Phil & Sebastian’s Marda Loop pouring Scotch Whisky and a unique KWM cocktail at The Night Cap Club on Thursday April 6. A picture of his range and more details can be found below.

On the new whisky side of things, there is a lot to tell you about. First and foremost we have two new exclusive blends, selected by yours truly and bottled by Berry Bros & Rudd for our 25th Anniversary. The first is very unusual, a Berry’s 25 Year KWM Single Barrel Blend, bottled at 46% and very well priced at $200. This was one of at least 6 casks Berry’s had acquired of whisky blended and then forgotten in barrel. A very serendipitous opportunity as the whisky in the casks was on the verge of turning 25 years old. The second blend is an oldie, but a goodie, Berry’s 40 Year KWM 25th Anniversary Blend, 46%, $430. This is almost certainly the least expensive 40 year old whisky you are likely to ever see again, and it is excellent! More details on both whiskies are below, and they are open for sampling in the shop. So don’t be shy, pop into the store for a taste!

But, as the old advertising slogan goes, that is not all… we have a lot of other exciting new whiskies to tell you about in this Malt Messenger from Macallan, Laphroaig, Teeling, Adelphi, Amrut and Glenrothes.

Truly lots to whet your palate and appetite. I hope you enjoy this Malt Messenger!

Slàinte!

In This Edition

1. 2017 Spring Tasting Schedule is Now Online!
2. Ghost River Theater Multi-Sensory Whisky Tasting Experience
3. Join Evan at Phil & Sebastian’s Marda Loop This Thursday
4. Introducing 2 New KWM 25th Anniversary Blends
5. Introducing Macallan 12 Year Double Cask
6. Introducing Laphroaig 25 Year 2015
7. Two New Old Teeling Single Malts
8. New Whiskies from Adelphi
9. New Whiskies from Amrut
10. A Trio of New Glenrothes

Andrew Ferguson

Kensington Wine Market

PS- PS – Don’t forget you can follow me on Twitter:

@scotch_guy, Instagram: @thescotch_guy/

or @kwmwhisky and Facebook: facebook.com/scotch.guy.1

2017 Spring Tasting Schedule Is Now Online 

Lots of great events to ring in our 25th Anniversary!

2017 is our 25th Anniversary, and we are celebrating with an incredible range of wine, whisky, beer and spirits tastings. You can view all of our tastings online! Here are the Spring Schedule whisky and spirits tastings:

1. Classic Malts – Tuesday April 11 – Our introduction to the world of Single Malt Scotch whisky. You’ll learn about different styles and regions while enjoying a fine range of drams. – $35
2. Glendronach Batch 14 – Thursday April 13 – The 9 oldest whiskies from Glendronach’s 14th release of single casks. You’ll be in sherry-bomb heaven as we sample vintages 1985 and 1990 through to 1996. – $150
3. Chateau Montifaud Cognacs – Thursday April 20 – Welcome our first exclusive bottling of this 1992 Cognac to mark our 25th Anniversary!  Please join us for a master class directed by Sophie Cabanes from Chateau Montifaud. – $35
4. East of Scotland – Tuesday April 25 – While the Japanese have been making world class whisky for nearly 100 years, India, Taiwan and Australia are recent arrivals to the game and deservedly gaining an international reputation too! – $100
5. Hidden Gems of the Highlands – Thursday April 27 – Blair Athol, Glenturret, Aberfeldy and Royal Brackla are but a few of the stalwart, little known, Highland distilleries we’ll feature shedding light on some lesser known distilleries. – $60
6. Cinco de Mayo – Thursday May 4 – Join us for a fiesta celebrating Mexican independence and their national drinks, tequila and mezcal! We’ll sample a range of Blanco, Reposado and Anejo tequilas. – $40
7. American Whiskey – Thursday May 11 – There is more to American whiskey than just Bourbon. We’ll explore a range of American whiskies along with some exciting new craft spirits. – $35
8. 25th Anniversary Special Tasting – Friday May 19 – Join us for a unique tasting to celebrate KWM’s exclusive 25^th Anniversary bottlings: Port, Whisky, Cognac and Armagnac, all bottled just for us. Special one night only discount of 25% on 25^th Anniversary purchases (in store only)! Stand up format, includes a glass; drop in between 6 and 9, there may be cake! – $25
9. Glenfarclas with George Grant – Friday May 26 4PM or 7PM – George Grant is coming to town to help us celebrate our 25^th Anniversary and we’ll have a stellar range of whiskies to mark the occasion, including some old Family Cask bottlings. Anniversary tasting glass included. – $50
10. Rare Malts 1992 Vintage Edition – Tuesday May 30 – KWM opened its doors in 1992! To help celebrate 25 fabulous years, we’ll be sampling a range of 1992 vintage single malts. – $80
11. Ardbeg Day 2017 – Saturday June 3 1PM or 3PM – Help us celebrate Ardbeg Day 2017 at KWM, as we mark the launch of the new Ardbeg Kelpie. This tasting will be a one hour Master Class featuring 6 whiskies including Dark Cove and Perpetuum. – $20
12. Spring Single Malt Festival – Thursday June 8 – Our annual festival of all things malt whisky will feature at least 100 single malts more Scotland and around the world. It sells out quickly, so don’t hesitate. 25^th Anniversary tasting glass included. – $60
13. Compass Box KWM Blend Launch – Tuesday June 13 5PM or 8PM – It has been a few years since John Glaser of Compass Box has been in Calgary. He’s coming to town to help us launch an exclusive collaboration blend marking our 25^th Anniversary. – $30
14. Master Malt 25 Year Old Edition – Friday June 23 – To celebrate Kensington Wine Market’s 25 years in business we’ll be sampling a range of 7 25 year old single malts. – $100
15. The Spirit of Canada – Thursday June 29 – Canadian whisky has caught the world’s attention in the last few years, just as a surge of craft Canadian whiskies are about to hit the market. We’ll feature some of the best new releases! – $35

Call 403-283-8000 to register, or register online!

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Ghost River Theater Multi-Sensory Whisky Tasting Experience 

In Partnership with the Scotch Malt Whisky Society Canada and Kensington Wine Market 

Kensington Wine Market and the Scotch Malt Whisky Society Canada have partnered with Ghost River Theater to put on a special multi-sensory whisky tasting at Last Best Brewery. The event, a fundraiser for Ghost River Theater will take place at 6:30 on Tuesday May 2nd. Tickets are $150 and very limited. For more information and to buy tickets to go to Brown Paper Tickets! 

Register Now!

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Join Evan at Phil & Sebastian’s Marda Loop This Thursday! 

For The Night Cap Club Scotch Whisky Tasting

We are thrilled to be participating in our third Phil & Sebastian Night Cap Club Tasting this Thursday at the Marda Loop location. Evan will be pouring a range of Scotch whiskies and mixing up a custom KWM cocktail. Evan is working on a unique example of the Penicillin, based around Ardbeg Perpetuum. Call Josie to register at 403.437.2944 or email: josie@philsebastian.com .  Register Now!

Introducing Two New KWM 25th Anniversary Blends 

A 25 Year Single Cask Blend and an Amazing Value 40 Year Old

While visiting Berry Bros. & Rudd in London last year, I was presented with a couple of very unique opportunities. Berry Bros., in addition to being England’s oldest wine merchants (they have been in business since the 1600s), also owns the Glenrothes brand, and is an independent bottler. I was there sampling potential exclusive single malt bottlings and single casks options for KWM when I was presented with a rare opportunity. Berry’s had acquired six single casks of Blended Scotch Whisky. Little was known of the provenance of the casks, only that they were approaching 25 years of age. Given Berry’s relationship with the Edrington Group there is a good chance they contain Macallan, Glenrothes and Glenturret, perhaps even a little Highland Park.

As Kensington Wine Market was fast approaching its 25th Anniversary

(May 2017), they thought I might be interested in bottling my own 25 year old single cask Blended Scotch whisky; they were right. Single barrel blends are very unusual, and the samples I reviewed did not disappoint. And so I selected the best of the six available casks to be bottled for KWM as a 25th Anniversary exclusive. But that was not the only surprise they had in store for me, they also had a small parcel of well-priced 40 year old Blended Scotch Whisky, bottled at 46%, that they were also happy to offer us. How could we resist? And so this is how it came to pass that Kensington Wine Market has had bottled exclusively two exclusive Blended Scotch Whiskies to mark our 25th Anniversary. As always with our single casks, it should go without saying that they are both excellent, but you don’t take my word for it, pop into the shop for a taste!

1.  Berry’s 25 Year KWM Single Barrel Blend – 46% –  Just 220 Bottles! – Andrew’s Tasting Note: “Nose: beeswax, creamy vanilla, white fruits and floral rose petals; marcona almonds, juicy citrus, honeydew melon and Jujubes; silky, soft and smooth. Palate: very silky, creamy and fruity, decadent and rich; then the spices roll in like a wave boldly but evenly breaking all the way down a beach; more Jujubes, tropical fruits, creamy vanilla, beeswax and creamed heather honey; still nutty with bright juicy orange, floral tones, marcona almonds and more honeydew melon; lovely mouth-feel. Finish: long, coating, creamy, decadent and spicy; lush, floral and creamy with fading fruits and decadent tones. Comment: a stunningly beautiful blend, layered, tropical and fruity; a very fitting 25th Anniversary bottling for our shop, and one we are proud to put our name on!” – $200
2.  Berry’s 40 Year KWM 25th Anniversary Blend – 46% – Just 120 Bottles! – Andrew’s Tasting Note: “Nose: Christmas cake, new leather sofas, old Armagnac and paring dark chocolate with Cuban cigars; on top of the candied fruits there is some bright orange and more delicate tropical tones: mango and papaya; silky caramel and creamy vanillas emerge later with some light but crisp spices. Palate: big, rich, fruity and spicy; huge Christmas cake notes merge into espresso beans and more soft but crisp spices; the second sip settles down into tobacco, dark bakers chocolate and loads of fruit: some candied, dried dark fruits and the more delicate tropical ones from the nose; more hints of old Armagnac, there also notes of jujubes soaked in nutty Oloroso sherry. Finish: long, coating, fruity and spicy; dark chocolate, sherry, tobacco and oranges mingle and fade into the distance with the faintest whiff of smoke! Comment: this is a beautiful old whisky in the vein of 25+ year old Glendronachs, the long lost Gordon Macphail Strathisla 40 Year and sherried old Glenfarclas… we can only begin to speculate on the component whiskies, who doesn’t love a little mystery?!” – $430

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Introducing Laphroaig 25 Year 2015 

The latest release in the ever popular franchise!

The 2015 edition has just landed, bottled at 46.8% after maturing in a mix of Oloroso Sherry and American Oak casks. I am looking for reviews of the 2015 Edition, there are not many out there; hope to give the whisky my own soon!

Laphroaig 25 Year 2015 – 46.8% – Sherry & Bourbon – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: At bottling strength the aroma seems quite closed giving only a rich, sweet scent but a touch of water releases all the multitude of different flavours. The initial sweet, sherry sweetness is quickly followed by the time-honoured Islay peat tang. After this opening burst of flavour there is a smooth fruit ripeness that complements the tang of salt in the background. Body: Rich round and full. Palate: The burst of peat that fills the mouth is quickly restrained by a sherry sweetness that slowly develops into spicy apple fruitiness. Finish: Very long and warming leaving a distinct tang of Islay.” – $650

Call 403-283-8000 to register, or register online!

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Introducing Macallan 12 Year Double Cask

Save $5 by Ordering Before April 13

The first new Macallan bottled with an age statement is due in store tomorrow, and there is a special price on it for the first two weeks. The importer is offering a special price and so we are passing it on to our customers. The regular retail price will be $95.99+GST, but while supplies last we are happy to offer it at $90.99+GST. The price is in effect until April 13 or while supplies last! 40% abv.

90pts Whisky Advocate (Spring 2017): “This straddles the existing Sherry Oak and Fine Oak ranges by being a mix of spirit matured in both European and American oak sherry casks. Earthy sherry and old leather on the nose, with toffee, polished oak, and cherry blossom. Medium to full-bodied, with sherry, orange, cocoa, nutty vanilla, and developing wood spices on the honeyed palate. The finish is creamy, with insistent spices, cocoa, and tangy oak.” – $91+GST Introductory Price!

From the Producer: “An exciting new age statement expression from Macallan that’s matured in a combination of American and European Sherry Oak for a minimum of 12 years. The best of two worlds and a new take on the signature style of Macallan. It is often said that when two worlds come together, they create something magical, or simply extraordinary.  For Macallan, this is the absolute truth behind their new 12 year old single malt; The Macallan Double Cask.  This is a single malt which tells the story of a journey; a story which brings together different worlds.  To create Double Cask, they bring new oak from America across thousands of miles to Spain, where oak casks are crafted and sherry seasoned before travelling to their distillery on Speyside to mature for 12 years.  These whiskies are then harmoniously united with those aged in the very best sherry seasoned European oak casks.  This union reveals an unmatched investment in time and extraordinary commitment to mastery for which The Macallan has been known since 1824.  Exclusively sherry seasoned, he Macallan Double Cask 12 Year Old delivers a distinct American oak style, reflecting a perfect harmony of flavors and nature colour.  The delicate flavour of American oak – vanilla, citrus and light oak – rises in prominence as the traditional Macallan character of rich fruit, sherry and wood spice affords a familiar back drop.  This is a flavour combination which is guaranteed until he very last drop.”

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Two New Old Teeling Single Malts 

Both Very Limited, 24 and 33 Year Olds

Only a couple of bottles of the 33 year old, and at most a couple dozen of the 24 year old have come to Alberta! The 1983 must be from Bushmills, the whisky pre-dates the opening of the Cooley Distillery (1989) by more than half a decade! Both whiskies are very rare, the 24 Year Old was the Best Irish Single Malt at the 2016 World Whiskies Awards!

1. Teeling 24 Year – 46% – 5000 Bottles Produced – 1991 Vintage – Matured in Ex-Bourbon – Finished in Sauternes – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Aromas of white grapes, cut grass, apricots and white chocolate. Taste: Silky smooth, with flavours of fig jam, honey, apricots, white chocolate and crisp saltiness at the end to balance the sweetness off. Finish: Long and mellow.” – $510
2. Teeling 33 Year – 42.9% – 275 Total Bottles – 1983 Vintage – Matured in 2 Ex-Bourbon Barrels – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Vanilla, cream, orange, toast, jam. Taste: Light and fresh, well balanced sweetness blends into notes of vanilla, sandalwood, allspice, and orchard fruits. Finish: Deep and inviting as the spice comes back and then goes away again.” – $4999.99

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New Whiskies from Adelphi 

8 New Releases Including Some Very Unusual Ones!

Adelphi is one of the most consistent independent bottlers we deal with and one of the most innovative. We love the fusion whiskies they’ve produced like the Scotch/Japanese  hybrid The Glover and the new Scotch/Indian hybrid The Kincardine. We have some cellar releases from Adelphi this time around too, including a 1978 Glenlivet and 1980 Inchgower, both bottled nearly a decade ago! Most exciting is the new release of Ardnamurchan spirit, an innovative not quite whisky from one of Scotland’s newest distilleries. Don’t let the age get you down, it is very interesting stuff!

1. Ardnamurchan Spirit 2016 AD – 53% – Not yet whisky… – Only 2500 bottles were released world-wide, far outstripping the distillery’s supply. 36 of these are coming to KWM. 29 First Fill Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez Sherry octaves (80L casks) filled in June 2015 and October 2014 containing both peated and unpeated spirit were married and further matured for 3 months in Ex-Pedro Ximenez Butts before bottling at 53%. It is not quite whisky yet, but it looks and sounds tasty! Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: It has a dense, sweet nose of Acacia honey and salted caramel. Palate: A mouth filling texture of minty toffee and a maritime, smoky richness with a kick of chili pepper. Finish: Licorice and eucalyptus combine with vivid peat smoke, from a working malt kiln, on the finish.” – $95 – Only 30 bottles!
2. Adelphi Caol Ila 2003 – 59.8% – 13 Year –  Sherry Hogshead – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Definitely Caol Ila: footbaths and carbolic soap, coal tar, smoked cheddar, spearmint and industrial cleaner; then the sweet notes arrive with Garibaldi biscuits, and extra icing sugar. Smokey bacon is also in evidence. Palate: On the palate, the smokey bacon is now coated in chocolate, with coal ash, cocoa, seaside fire embers, and a decent kick of chilli pepper. The maritme notes increase, becoming almost edible with Nori seaweed. Finish: Bags of sweet smoke in the long finish, with dark chocolate and cherries and plenty of bonfires. Powerful stuff. – $145
3. Adelphi Clynelish 1996 – 53.4% – 19 Year – Cask 11455 – My Tasting Note: “Nose: honeyed, beeswax, rose petals and loads of fruit: melons, citrus and dried apricots; decadent sugars, white chocolate and caramel chews. Palate: big, creamy, fruity and spicy; toasty, very decadent, lots of layers; creamed honey, more beeswax, floral tones and sweet spices; still floral, more rose petals and sliced ginger. Finish: long, coating, honeyed and spicy; stays sweet and fruity. Comment: classic late teens Clynelish… fruity with lots of layers.” – $205
4. Adelphi Glenborrodale Batch 3 – 46% – 8 Year – Producer’s Tasting Note: “Citrus zest with rum and raisin fudge from Mrs Miggins Fudge Emporium; squares of after dinner chocolates with the slightest wisp of smoke from the log fire.” – $95
5. Adelphi Glenlivet 1978 – 52.1% – 29 Year – Producer Tasting Note: “A fresh nose, with Speyside pear-drops. Marshmallows behind and mellow soft fruits, brown apples, desiccated coconut and marzipan. Eve’s pudding? Surprisingly lively for its age at natural strength, although more wood-notes emerge when water is added: varnished wood, the inside of an old desk drawer. After a while the fruitiness returns in the form of apple-flavoured Chewitts. ‘A warm summer’s day among whin bushes’. The taste is much sweeter than the nose suggests, with tablet (Strathavon Toffee), grated coconut and boat varnish, but also fresh and tingling. Mellow but vibrant.” – $460 – Only 8 bottles, 4 left!
6. Adelphi Inchgower 1980 – 59.8% – 26 Year – Sherry Cask – Producer Tasting Note: “What an incredible colour! Molasses with magenta lights; Coke and crimson… The first-fill ex-sherry butt has done the business, and only yielded 223 bottles. Concentrated nectar. The nose is cherries covered in dark chocolate and treacle toffee, but dry overall, and nose-drying. The taste at natural strength is big and sweet, with traces of brimstone and a long bitter-chocolate finish. Curiously mentholated and mouth-cooling as well. Water raises sulphur initially, but this soon blows off, leaving a roasting tin, de-glazed with red wine and redcurrant jelly after over-cooking a rib of beef or a haunch of venison. The taste at reduced strength holds up well, with a big mouth-feel, tannic dryness, a very long finish and a lingering taste of dark chocolate. A massive whisky, and one to savour long into the night!” – $610 – Only 4 bottles, SOLD OUT!
7. Adelphi Kincardine 7 Year – 52.9% – 7 Year –  A Marriage of Glen Elgin, Macallan & Amrut – My Tasting Note: “Nose: doughy, creamy and toasty; wine gums, melon, new leather, crisp citrus and powdered sugar; loads of spice: curried and decadent; almond brittle and macadamia nut butter. Palate: creamy, decadent, vanilla, honeyed and very spicy, hot in fact: chili oils and cayenne pepper; wet leaf litter, earthy tones, musty oak and coffee grounds; more wine gums, citrus and juicy malt. Finish: long, coating, decadent and spicy; fruity and more hot chili oils. Comment: rich, fruity, juicy and spicy, this is a lovely malt, with character well beyond its years! – $210 – Only 20 bottles.
8. Adelphi Liddesdale 10 Year – 46% – 21 Year – Producer’s Tasting Note: “Distillery: A box of assorted chocolates by the fire; orange, grapefruit and pineapple with a dusting of cocoa; honeycomb and hazelnut to follow finishing with the surprise strawberry ganache and a grind of pepper.” – $180 – Only 12 bottles.

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New Whiskies from Amrut 

Two Very Different and Limited Releases!

A pair of new releases from Amrut are here. They are very rare and will be in high demand. We are only getting a handful of each. The prices are high, but are a reflection of the rarity and demand for these whiskies. To be fair to everyone they are limited to 1 per customer!

1.  Amrut Single Malt Double Cask – 46% – A marriage of old Indian whisky from 1 Ex-Bourbon and 1 Ex-Sherry cask – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Chocolate, cigarettes, ash, sunflowers, currant, raisins. Taste: Ash, peach, brown sugar, raisin, malt. Finish: Ginger, raisin, plum, salt, chocolate, brown sugar, sugared lemon peel.” – $240
2. Amrut Single Malt Rye – 50% – European Rye & New American Oak – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: pineapple bread, Mango cake, stewed guava, papaya chutney. The balance between the tropical fruits and the rye’s breadiness. Taste: Imparting tropical flavours, lavender and aniseeds with hint of medicinal flavours. Finish: Bready flavours and lotus seeds.” – $240           

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A Trio of New Glenrothes 

A 1976 Single Cask and 2nd Editions of 1992 and 1988

These three malts are the first new Glenrothes vintage release we’ve seen in a few years. There are 2nd editions of the 1988 and 1992 vintages. Most interestingly there is a single cask 1976 vintage. The 1976 and 1988 bottlings are both very limited. Just 4 and 5 bottles of each are available!

1. Glenrothes 1992 2nd Edition – 44.3% – 21 Year – Refill Sherry Butts & American Oak Hogsheads – Producer Tasting Notes: “Nose: Fruity citrus notes, vanilla and a hint of lychee. Palate: Sweet, vanilla and lemon peel with a touch of creamed coconut. Finish: Long and lingering.” – $180
2. Glenrothes 1988 2nd Edition – 44.1% – 27 Year – First Fill American Oak Sherry & Refill Sherry Butts – Producer Tasting Notes: “Nose: Nutmeg, fruit cake, nuts and dark honey. Palate: As above and rich, creamy vanilla. Finish: Full, lingering dried fruits and spice.” – $550
3. Glenrothes 1976 – 43.6% – 38 Year – 227 Bottles – 2nd Fill American Oak Hogshead — Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: vanilla, floral, fruity. Palate: cloves, slightly oak, almonds and marzipan. Finish: lemon peel, vanilla, cedar wood!” – $1100

 Thank You for Reading the Malt Messenger! 

Contact & Disclaimers 

If you have any whisky questions or comments concerning The Malt Messenger please contact me by e-mail, phone, or drop by the store.

All of the products mentioned in THE MALT MESSENGER can be purchased in store, over the phone or from our website at www.kensingtonwinemarket.com. All prices quoted in the Malt Messenger are subject to change and don’t include GST. In the case of discrepancies in pricing, the price in our in store point of sale will be taken as correct.

Thanks for reading the Malt Messenger.

Slainte!

Andrew Ferguson

Owner & Scotchguy

Kensington Wine Market

403-283-8000

Calgary, Alberta, Canada

http://www.kensingtonwinemarket.com.

Kensington Wine Market

403-283-8000

We have new stuff!
New bottles at Park Ave.

What’s new?

Our bottles are being rearranged to accommodate new arrivals. Instead of looking at the shelves with wonder and asking Marlon to climb the ladder ~ we thought we’d share them with you in the comfort of an email blast.

Happy Spring to you all!
Please contact us with any questions.

PS: Our huge Passover selection is now on display 🙂

Cheers!
Jonathan, Eric & Marlon
The Park Avenue Liquor Shop
270 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
212-685-2442
jonathan@parkaveliquor.com
eric@parkaveliquor.com
whiskyconn@gmail.com (Marlon)
www.parkaveliquor.com

~ Brooklyn Small Batch Co. ~
‘New York State Bourbon’

This Single Barrel newcomer is aged in virgin American oak barrels before spending an additional 16 months in Port casks. This first batch has been selling very steadily here at the store for good reason.  “A heady nose redolent of nutty aromas, American oak, roastd peanut shells & searing corn syrup, gives way to a finish of toffee & Port dipped cookies.”  BTW: It’s Gluten-Free and Kosher certified. PRICE: $24 for 375ml bottle

 

~ Rampur Distillery ~
Vintage Select Casks

“Rampur Distillery was the original name for Radico Khaitan, India’s fourth largest spirits company. It has been making whisky for more than half a century, and started producing malted barley for its blends in 1990, but only launched its first single malt for export in 2016. This is a creamy and malty whisky with notes of vanilla, apricot and apple.” PRICE: $62/btl

~ Black Dirt Bourbon ~
Single Barrel, NY

Distilled in the heart of the Black Dirt region of New York, each barrel of their bourbon is crafted from distinct mash bills. The whiskey is aged a minimum of two years in new charred oak, and hand-selected for its own unique flavor. PRICE: $26 for 375ml bottle

~ Tomintoul ~
14 Year Old
(Kosher)

We’ll let the 2012 Whisky Bible tell you about this new item.  “Just how many variations on a honeyed theme can you get? Here I count at least five, each wave coming in after the other; medium length but sheer quality all the way. Bird’s custard mixing dreamily with drier, playfully spiced, oaky vanillas… not a single weakness. Just magnificent whisky bottled the way it is meant to be.” ~ Jim Murray (95 points)  PRICE: $65/btl ON SALE

~ Boondocks 8 Yr Old Bourbon ~
Port Cask Finish

This is Park Ave’s first statement from Boondocks ~ and what a statement it is!  The 8 year old brings candied apricots, a bunch of tropical fruit basket and sultanas to the nose. On the palate – a soft heat delivers maraschino cherries, ‘Big-Red gum’ and some all-spice into a satisfying finish.  PRICE: $55/btl

Due to ever-changing inventory, we cannot guarantee bottle availability. We are not responsible for any typographical errors or the petition to make MLB Opening Day a National Holiday (though it SHOULD be!). Please contact the store with any questions.

 The Park Avenue Liquor Shop

| 212-685-2442 | 212-689-6247 | parkaveliquor.com

Japanese Whisky Masterclass @ HTFW

They’ve always called me, the Piano Man………Nah, not really. Welcome everyone! This week we’re taking a look at the Glenmornagie Bacalta! I know there have been a few reviews of this already, but i thought i’d share my two cents worth. Finished in Malmsey Madeira casks for an extra sweet and luxurious finish, this whisky has elements of creamed toffee, mint, honey and all the dried stone fruit that the world has to offer. Check out the video, leave some feedback and have a great day! Enjoy

https://youtu.be/Y0RbbDYLdsY

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BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY EXPERIMENTS WITH 300-YEAR-OLD OAK

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (March 29, 2017) As part of its latest endeavor in experimentation, Buffalo Trace Distillery is experimenting with barrels made of 300-year-old wood. This venture is one of many wood-specific experiments that the Distillery has led. Previous wood experiments have utilized wood harvested from around the world, analyzed the differences between barrels created from different parts of the tree and many more. This experiment, however, will allow the team at Buffalo Trace to observe what effects the age of an oak tree itself could have on the taste of the bourbon.

The barrel wood used in this trial came from 300-year-old trees previously cut in Kentucky, the oldest oak trees the Distillery could find that had already been harvested. This was a rare find as an average oak tree will end its life cycle before reaching 200 years. Working with the barrel manufacturer the East Bernstadt Company, it took more than a year to procure the 300-year-old wood and then a year of stave seasoning before the barrels were made.

The team at Buffalo Trace is eager to see what effects the drastic age of the wood will have on the bourbon.

“It’s a unique opportunity to be able to experiment with a variable that is even older than our Distillery, which is 244 years old,” Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley said. “We are really looking forward to seeing how extremely old wood might affect the taste of the bourbon, and hopefully will make some interesting observations along the way that will be useful going forward.”

The 300-year-old barrels were filled and rolled into an aging warehouse in December where they will remain for at least the next six years, likely longer, until ready. The barrels will be monitored every year to observe any differences the wood may impart during the aging process.

This experiment is part of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Experimental Program, in which the Distillery is known for exploring the effects of a range of variables. Previous experiments date back more than 20 years and have explored everything from infrared light, to non-traditional grains like rice and oats, to various fill proofs, warehouse variations and much more.

These 300-year-old wood barrels join the more than 14,000 experimental whiskey barrels aging at Buffalo Trace Distillery, the largest number of experimental barrels ever held in inventory at the National Historic Landmark Distillery and most likely the world.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1773 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 17 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named “Brand Innovator of the Year” by Whisky Magazine at its Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 300 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com

The barrel wood used in this trial came from 300-year-old trees cut in Kentucky, the oldest oak trees the Distillery could find that had already been cut. This was a rare find as an average oak tree will end its life cycle before reaching 200 years. Working with the barrel manufacturer the East Bernstadt Company, it took more than a year to procure the 300-year-old wood and then a year of stave seasoning before the barrels were made.

APRIL OUTTURN ALERT: READ ONLINE NOW

April Outturn goes on sale this First Friday at 9am.  Don’t miss out on your favourite bottlings, click below to view the full listing ahead of the release.  This month we’re celebrating variety and diversity, and of course Easter, with 18 adventurous new single casks.

Read Outturn

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults, 87 Giles Street, Leith EH6 6BZ

Contact: sales@smws.com or call 0131 555 2929 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm). Visit the Society at here for membership information

This is your chance to join and to take advantage of their great offers!

Spot the SMWS bottles in this amusing You Tube video

WYOMING WHISKEY DEBUTS AT K&L

The wonderful Wyoming Whiskey has finally arrived and stands out as one of the best values in craft whiskey on the market today. This is truly old school Kentucky style wheated bourbon that just happens to be made in Wyoming. They even went so far as to bring former Maker’s Mark Master Distiller Steve Nally to Kirby, WY to set up the operation. The biggest difference between Steve’s KY and WY Whiskey production is the use of local grain and the temperature of the warehouses. Wyoming has greater diurnal fluctuations during the spring and summer months, which accounts for some additional barrel interaction during these months compared to Kentucky. In the winter, a complete maturation shut down occurs due Wyoming’s long cold winter, a problem Kentucky addressed more than 100 years ago with heated warehouses. Otherwise production is nearly identical to Maker’s. They use a deep limestone aquifer nearly 40 miles from the distillery. They employ a traditional sour mash set back using two proprietary yeast strains selected for productive and flavorful fermentation. The wash heads into a tall thin column and is distilled to 130 proof before being cut to 110 proof and filled into 53 gallon barrels. The whiskey is generally aged five years and bottled at an unusual 44% abv (Wyoming was apparently the 44th state). After five long winters they’re pulling something absolutely delicious out of those barrels. One of the finest craft bourbons we’ve seen to date and certainly an incredible value.

Wyoming Whiskey Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) $34.99

All the good folks at Wyoming Whiskey wanted to do was make some good old fashioned rye whiskey. When they approached Master Distiller Steve Nally and his response was unequivocally, “NO!” Asking a wheated bourbon boy to make you rye whiskey is a bit like asking a F-16 Pilot to drive a tank, it’s probably not going to go smoothly. After much insistence from his employer, Master Distiller Steve Nally finally relinquished. On day one of rye production things went awry (no pun intended). Steve was fuming. He had warned everyone about the dangers of rye. The fermenters boiled over, the wash was sticky, no fun for anyone. Steve Nally eventually got it done along with a hearty “I told you so.” Only a few years later, it became clear that despite the production difficulties, they’d achieved something extra special that one disastrous week in the distillery. Eventually, the distillery decided to bottle their very first Straight Rye Whiskey and reached out to Mr. Nally to get the precise mashbill of this special little whiskey. His nonchalant response was, “48% Rye, 40% Corn, 12% Malt.” He said he wouldn’t make it and true to his word, he didn’t. The resulting whiskey is no less delicious and was ultimately blended with traditional high rye recipe bourbon also distilled in November of 2011. As per usual all the grain is non-GMO and sourced from a farm in Byron, WY. This is what happens when you stick wings and a jet engine on an M1 Abrams, its freakin’ awesome!

Wyoming Whiskey “Outryder” Straight American Whiskey (750ml) $49.99

The World Whiskies Awards is an annual celebration of all things whisky, from single malt Scotch to blended whisky and everything in between! This year’s winners have just been announced and you can get your hands on some of the whiskies with the top accolades at The Whisky Shop. With next day delivery on UK orders and Click & Collect available at any of our 20 locations throughout the UK, you won’t have to wait long for a taste of liquid gold!

BEST HIGHLAND SINGLE MALT

Glenmorangie LaSanta 12yo. Elegant but full bodied this whisky has spent ten years maturing in American white oak ex-bourbon casks before being extra-matured for a further two years in Oloroso and PX Sherry casks from Jerez in Spain. A delicious and soft whisky that will appeal to one and all.  A delicious and soft whisky, with lots of sweet sherry flavoured sultanas, orange segments and butterscotch, combining to create complex warm spices. A long and satisfying finish with spiced orange, chocolate and hazelnuts.
£50.00 Buy Now

BEST ISLAY SINGLE MALT

Corryvreckan takes its name from the famous whirlpool that lies to the north of Islay, where only the bravest souls dare to venture. Swirling aromas and torrents of deep, peaty, peppery taste lurk beneath the surface of this beautifully balanced Ardbeg dram. Like the whirlpool itself, Corryvreckan is not for the faint-hearted!  Intense and powerful, with lots of salt and tar, but also with an appealing dark chocolate sweetness and rich red fruits and muscovado sugar. Lots of pepper on the palate, and a mouthful of black tarry espresso balanced by soft, rich fruits. A long, powerful finish with black coffee, chocolate coated cherries and hot pepper sauce.  £75.00 Buy Now

BEST CAMPBELTOWN SINGLE MALT

Each cask of this Campbeltown Single Malt is selected for its rare character and exceptional maturity. Finished in deep charred oak before bottling straight from the cask, this non chill-filtered expression combines subtle wood and vanilla flavours with a full-bodied spicy fruit aroma.  The nose is elegant with oak and creme brulee notes leading to caramelised fruit and polished oak. The palate is sweet and concentrated with blackcurrant jam, subtle wood and vanilla, while the finish is clean and sweet with cocoa tones.
£80.00 Buy Now

BEST BLENDED MALT WHISKY

Created by legendary Master Blender Dr. Jim Beveridge and his team, Johnnie Walker Green Label is described by whisky expert Dave Broom as, “An arresting, pure malt-whisky with vibrant, natural notes of forest, shore and fruit. The different elements are all in evidence yet also in harmony. Concentrated flavours have been brought together and work together as a whole whilst retaining their individuality. It changes every time you pick up the glass.”  Charles Maclean’s official tasting notes:  Deep amber in colour, initially somewhat closed, then subtle scents of dry Xmas cake, complete with marzipan, icing sugar and waxed wrapper, being to emerge. A smooth, rich texture, and a sweet, dry-fruit mouth taste, with milk chocolate baking spices and a trace of ginger. Drinks well straight.  £47.00 Buy Now

BEST BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY

Johnnie Walker Double Black Label is a Blended Whisky created in the style of Johnnie Walker Black Label, but with a rich, more intense, smokier flavour. It is proof that the pioneering spirit is still alive and well today.  Created through blending selected aged whiskies that are naturally smoky and rich in character, with those matured in deep charred old oak casks, it is a whisky of real character and depth of taste.  £30.45 Buy Now

Spirit of Freedom 62

The latest whisky in the Spirit of Freedom series, this expression is a blend of 62 different Scotch whiskies in recognition of the Scottish ballot in the UK’s EU membership referendum of June 23rd 2016, in which the people of Scotland voted by 62%-38% to stay in the EU. Sweet and fresh on the nose with minty undertones, becoming fruity with apricot, pear and banana. The palate is light and fruity with melon and raspberries washed with vanilla cream, before a moreish and buttery finish.

£28.99 Pre-Order Now

Orders will be dispatched w/c 10th April