Diageo, the maker of Guinness, Don Julio Tequila and Smirnoff Vodka today announces a first-of-its-kind 90% paper-based bottle trial for Johnnie Walker Black Label exclusively at Johnnie Walker Princes Street’s 1820 bar, in Edinburgh.

DIAGEO LAUNCHES FIRST 70CL PAPER-BASED BOTTLE ON-TRADE TRIAL FOR JOHNNIE WALKER

Created in partnership with PA Consulting, as part of the Bottle Collective with PA and PulPac, this is Diageo’s first paper-based 70cl bottle trial in the on-trade. The trial begins tomorrow and will assess how bartenders interact with and pour from the bottle, and how the bottle fares in a bar environment. A total of 250 paper-based bottles will be used with the trial expected to run until mid-October. Members of the public will be able to see the bottles in use behind the bar, however they cannot purchase the bottle.

This will be the second paper-based bottle trial from Diageo and PA, following the success of the Baileys paper-based bottle mini format (80ml) trial, using a similar Dry Molded Fiber innovation at the Time Out Festival in Barcelona earlier this year. The design team have taken learnings from the technical aspects of the miniature format, to make a larger and more complex shape for Johnnie Walker. The bottle’s design retains the iconic square shape of Johnnie Walker Black Label, whilst enhancing the premium appeal with unique facets cut into the sides of the bottle and embossing of the Striding Man on the bottle and closure.

Jennifer English, Johnnie Walker Global Brand Director, says: “We are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation to not only deliver the premium quality and iconic design our customers expect from us, but to do so in a way that reflects our sustainability ambitions.”

“The paper-based bottle trial for Johnnie Walker Black Label marks a significant step forward in our journey. This test allows us to explore new packaging in the high intensity environment of the on-trade. We are pioneering new packaging solutions and shaping the future of the industry.”

The trial bottle is made from 90% paper and a very thin plastic liner. The innovative technology makes the paper-based bottle approximately 60% lighter, with initial external life cycle analysis on the prototype showing an up to 47% potential reduction in carbon emissions (1), compared to the Johnnie Walker Black Label glass bottle equivalent. The bottle closure was developed in collaboration with PulPac, Setop DIAM and PA and is made from a unique combination of cork and similar Dry Molded Fiber paper technology as the bottle. It is only intended for use during the trial and excluded from calculations.

The Johnnie Walker Black Label paper-based bottle for this test is designed considering recyclability among other aspects. The plastic liner is designed to not require consumer or bartender disassembly, as it is not attached or bonded to the outer paper layer, assisting recycling facilities to separate without disrupting the recycling process (2). The stopper used for trial purposes is not recyclable, however alternative solutions are in development. Throughout the trial and further development of the paper-based bottle, the recycling capability will be a key factor for future versions of the bottle as we continue to test, learn and develop.

Jamie Stone, Design and Innovation Expert at PA Consulting, adds: “PA is delighted to have worked with Diageo and PulPac to produce these paper-based bottles for Johnnie Walker Black Label. These bottles break new ground in packaging design and shows the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, whilst seeking to maintain the elegance, luxury, and bottle size expected in the premium drinks market.”

“PulPac’s Dry Molded Fiber technology opens up new possibilities for cost-effective, lightweight, less carbon intensive and more sustainable packaging. We look forward to collecting feedback from bartenders and the public following the market trial, so we can test and refine the bottle and technology further.”

Diageo and Johnnie Walker continue to explore paper formats across the wider portfolio as a means to reduce carbon emissions. This includes an ongoing partnership with Pulpex as they continue to develop and internally test their initial concept paper-based bottle, which is currently in feasibility testing.

Beyond paper-based solutions, the brand recently introduced Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra, the word’s lightest whisky glass bottle, weighing just 180g without the stopper, the result of years of experimentation and innovation. Featuring a unique teardrop shape, lattice stopper, and bamboo frame to bring luxury and simplicity together. While Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra is a design experiment, the insights gained will guide future glass lightweighting initiatives across the Diageo portfolio.

These latest innovations form part of Diageo’s ambition to reduce its carbon footprint by exploring new packaging formats, including the launch of a 70cl aluminium spirits bottle with Baileys, a global licensing agreement with circular economy technology company ecoSPIRITS, and removing the cardboard gift boxes in its premium Scotch portfolio to reduce excess packaging.

LCA report carried out by independent external specialist indicating potential Climate Change (kg CO2 eq.) savings of up to 47% compared to the 70cl glass Johnnie Walker Black Label bottle. Savings to be confirmed as we continue to test, learn, iterate and refine the technology, post the trial and prior to scaled versions.

Dry Molded Fiber bottle prototypes have been shown to be suitable for recycling in standard paper mills through the CEPI test method. We received some positive results from initial tests of prototypes from a large recycler in the UK, ongoing tests with leading waste management companies and recyclers are continuing in UK and other EU markets. Recyclability to be confirmed for future trials and any scaled launch of the bottles, as we continue to test, learn and iterate, if need be and will remain a key design consideration. We’ve answered some of the most common questions in a video on YouTube, watch below to find out more.

About Diageo:

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

About Johnnie Walker:

Johnnie Walker is the world’s number 1 Scotch Whisky brand* (IWSR 2023) and the world’s number one International Spirits Brand* (IWSR 2023 Relative Market Share), enjoyed by people in over 180 countries around the world. Since the time of its founder, John Walker, those who blend its whiskies have pursued flavour and quality above all else.

Today’s range of award-winning whiskies includes Johnnie Walker Red Label, Blonde, Black Label, Double Black, Green Label, Gold Label Reserve, Aged 18 Years, and Blue Label. Together they account for over 22 million cases sold annually (IWSR, 2023). Johnnie Walker is also the number one best-selling Scotch and number one trending Scotch (Drinks International, 2024).

*In value 2023

About PA:

We believe in the power of ingenuity to build a positive human future. As strategies, technologies, and innovation collide, we create opportunity from complexity. Our diverse teams of experts combine innovative thinking and breakthrough technologies to progress further, faster. Our clients adapt and transform, and together we achieve enduring results. We are over 4,000 strategists, innovators, designers, consultants, digital experts, scientists, engineers, and technologists. And we have deep expertise in consumer and manufacturing, defence and security, energy and utilities, financial services, government and public services, health and life sciences, and transport. Our teams operate globally from offices across the UK, Ireland, US, Nordics, and Netherlands. Discover more at paconsulting.com and connect with PA on LinkedIn and X. PA. Bringing Ingenuity to Life.

Our October 2024 Auction is in full swing and it’s a great time to take a closer look at a few of the interesting bottles on offer, including this Bruichladdich 14 Years Old which has an amazing tale behind its conception. In 2005 local fisherman John Baker was fishing 3 miles out when he spotted something that may be a danger to other vessels and called the coastguards, who in turn brought the mystery object to dry land. They quickly discovered it was in fact a mine detecting robot which belonged to the MOD. They contacted the Naval base at Faslane who repeatedly denied losing the vessel! John’s brother-in-law, who was a member of the coastguards, took home the robot and put it in the garden of his house at Port Ellen. However, only two weeks later the MOD confirmed that the vessel was in fact theirs and arranged to retrieve it. Bruichladdich wasted no time in producing this bottling which celebrated the story of the seafaring vessel, which was well received by the locals. Years later, the vessel had become surplus to requirements and was auctioned off, the distillery was alerted to its sale and promptly bought it to proudly place at the courtyard of their distillery in 2016, just in time for their annual open day!

Another fascinating bottle is Macallan Genesis. Released in 2018 to mark the opening of Macallan’s iconic new distillery. Genesis also celebrates the design processes used to build this state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly building. A highly prized and important bottling in the history of the Macallan Distillery, limited to just 2,500 bottles.

Another top pick from this month’s auction must surely be this bottle of GlenDronach, Distilled in 1968 and then aged for 25 years in ex-Sherry Casks. This particular version was bottled for the US market which was imported by Hiram Walker. One of only 2,000 bottles produced!

Another 25 Year Old bottling of note is this offering from Scapa; the oldest official bottling from the Orkney distillery. Bottle 284 of 2000 produced!

These are only a few of the bottles in our October auction, there are many more to enjoy from your favourite distilleries. To view more wee gems visit clickwhiskyauctions.com. Register to bid. Remember, you’ve got to be in it to win it! Auction ends Sunday 20th October from 8pm BST.

Malt Whisky Yearbook 2025 is out now

Every year – the most updated whisky book on the market!

This is the 20th anniversary of a book that whisky enthusiasts look forward to every autumn. The main part of the book covers no less than 874 malt whisky distilleries around the world with all the facts updated. New exciting articles by distinguished writers such as Charles Maclean, Ian Wisniewski, Gavin D Smith, Kristiane Sherry, Nick Morgan and Mark Jennings. More than 200 tasting notes, including independent bottlings. New feature! With An Ear To The Ground… a look from the consumer perspective. A listing of more than 150 of the worlds’ greatest whisky shops. The Whisky Year That Was – the most comprehensive summary you´ll find of the news and trends in the industry. An entire chapter about the world´s leading independent bottlers. All the latest info on bottlings and web sites as well as the latest statistics and figures. More than 500 colour photos.

The Malt Whisky Yearbook is the brainchild of editor Ingvar Ronde and was first published in autumn 2005. Since then a new and completely revised edition has been published yearly. What started out as a go-to book for whisky enthusiasts wanting to keep abreast of the ever-changing malt whisky world, soon became a tool also for the whisky industry. Many producers now buy it for their staff (brand ambassadors, tour guides, sales people etc.) to keep them informed about the latest developments.

The Malt Whisky Yearbook 2025 is sold through www.maltwhiskyyearbook.com for £15.95 plus shipping.

Ingvar Ronde – Editor Malt Whisky Yearbook and Keeper of the Quaich
ingvar.ronde@magdig.com

Published by MagDig Media Ltd.
Publication date; 1 October 2023
ISBN 978-1-7394492-1-6
Recommended retail price in UK; £15.95
Contact; ingvar.ronde@magdig.com
www.maltwhiskyyearbook.com

Clynelish 12 Year Old

70cl | 48.4% ABV

Unctuously mouth-coating with peppery spices and buttered gingerbread, this Clynelish Single Malt was charged from a single refill hogshead.

Tasting notes:

Nose: Sweetly herbal, gently honeyed, subtly creamy, distinctly gristy and hinting at salt

Palate: Unctuously mouth-coating with peppery spices, buttered gingerbread, and barley

Finish: Initially ginger, ahead of salted (vanilla) toffee, with a mix of sugar and oak

£118.95

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Established in 1948, Douglas Laing is a proudly independent, family owned Scotch Whisky business in its third generation. Abiding to the philosophy of presenting Whisky as the distiller intended, Douglas Laing’s Old Particular and Xtra Old Particular Collections enable Whisky lovers around the world to come as close as they possibly can to sampling a dram straight from the cask.

The Single Cask

Imperial 25 Years Old

ABV: 52.8% 70 cL

The Good Dram Show – Episode 569 ‘Samples for the next Gauntleys Bottling’

Welcome to this week’s episode of the show in which I’ll be taking a look at the samples that I received for consideration to be the next Gauntleys of Nottingham bottling.

The Good Dram Show with Chris Goodrum Episode 569 – The 1880 Collection No4: The Contestants..!

Filmed in The Revamped Study Nottingham

 Featuring

Glen Elgin 2013 (currently 11 years old) 63.5%

Glen Elgin 2011 (currently 13 years old) 57.4%

Linkwood 2012 (currently 12 year old) 58.3%

Ardmore 2016 (currently 7 years old) 61.5% 

THE GLENLIVET REDEFINES TRADITION WITH THE RELEASE OF ITS OLDEST SINGLE MALT

The 55 year-old expression – the highest age statement ever to be released by The Glenlivet – is unveiled as it marks a 200-year legacy. 

The Glenlivet, the iconic Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, has unveiled a masterpiece that celebrates its excellence in whisky craftsmanship and design, embodying the originality that has defined it since its inception in 1824: The Glenlivet Eternal Collection, First Edition, 55 Year Old, in collaboration with computational architect, Michael Hansmeyer.

A true rarity, The Glenlivet’s oldest and most ambitious expression to date comprises just 100 beautifully crafted bottles, while every aspect of the new release has been considered with meticulous attention to detail. Crafted from a seasoned sherry cask and carefully matured over more than five decades, this precious single malt offers a complex flavour profile and astonishingly long finish.

In partnership with pioneering artist, Michael Hansmeyer, the 55 Year Old single malt whisky sits within a strikingly beautiful sculpture that takes inspiration from the home of The Glenlivet. Mirroring the eternal essence and flow of the River Livet, which is located deep in the Spey Valley where The Glenlivet was born, Hansmeyer brought his unique expertise in computational architecture to create this highly original art piece.

With hand-sculpted jesmonite and rose-gold plating, the sculpture perfectly houses the spherical decanter of the 55 Year Old. In a stunning display of contemporary modelling through computer programming, this art piece brings subtle intricacies that are testament to the craftsmanship at the heart of every creation from The Glenlivet.

Kevin Balmforth, The Glenlivet Cask Master who was responsible for directing the final maturation years of the 55 Year Old whisky, describes the taste experience as “a medley of autumn fruits, sun-drenched Seville oranges and sticky dates enveloped by the spiced warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg on the nose, alongside the sweet, warming flavours of homemade blackcurrant jam and vanilla fudge, balanced with zesty citrus notes on the palate.”

Speaking about the inspiration behind the sculpture Michael Hansmeyer, computational architect & programmer, explained:

“My work captures the intersection of architecture and the arts. It is a laboratory for experimenting with new possibilities, and that is where I saw the harmony in collaborating with The Glenlivet. Weaving threads of intelligent technologies to create something that escapes conformity and classification to celebrate such an aged whisky has been a thrill. I created this sculpture as a tribute to the complexity of The Glenlivet’s oldest expression and the rugged beauty of the distillery’s Scottish landscape, capturing the spirit of where innovation meets tradition.”

This exceptional 55 Year Old single malt is the First Edition of The Glenlivet Eternal Collection – a new range of highly collectable precious whiskies, released annually. All future releases, each taken from a single, extraordinary cask, will be aged for one additional year and will be accompanied by an original artform crafted by a new visionary artist. Together, this will create a collection to cherish.

Kevin Balmforth, The Glenlivet Cask Master added:

“The 55 Year Old is the highest age Scotch ever released from The Glenlivet Distillery, and combined with the incredible talent of Michael, it tells of the timelessness of The Glenlivet. Thanks to decades of collaboration from our team of cask experts, past and present, the introduction of The Eternal Collection represents a monumental moment for whisky connoisseurs and luxury appreciators to add a pivotal piece of Scotch whisky legacy to their collection. It epitomises The Glenlivet’s commitment to excellence within Scotch innovation as we continue to push to creative new heights in single malts.”

The First Edition of The Glenlivet Eternal Collection, will be released in September 2024. The masterpiece was first unveiled during an exclusive 200 year anniversary celebration hosted at The Glenlivet’s iconic distillery in Speyside, Scotland. The Glenlivet Distillery is open for guests to explore the full portfolio from The Glenlivet and enjoy interactive visitor experiences.

In tandem with the launch of its oldest single malt, and to further honour its 200^th anniversary, The Glenlivet has partnered with Sotheby’s to create a unique auction lot.  A bespoke 55 Year Old single malt whisky presented with a one-of-a-kind Hansmeyer sculpture will be available exclusively at auction from 18^th October – 1^st November 2024, with all proceeds to benefit National Trust for Scotland, dedicated to conserving Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.

The Glenlivet Eternal Collection, First Edition: 55-Year-Old in collaboration with Michael Hansmeyer, will be available exclusively at The Whisky Exchange for RRP €50,000. For more information, visit theglenlivet.com or follow @theglenlivet. To register early interest in the one-of-one auction, visit www.sothebys.com/theglenlivet55.

MIZUNARA AND OLOROSO CASK FINISH LAUNCHED BY THE GLENALLACHIE

 Award-winning Scotch whisky brand releases rare Mizunara and Oloroso-finished whisky

Leading independent Scotch whisky distillery The GlenAllachie debuts the first single malt to join its Master of Wood series: a 17-year-old Mizunara & Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish.

Spearheaded by whisky maker of 52 years, Billy Walker, the multi-award-winning Speyside producer is known for its flair for sourcing and managing both quality and unusual casks from around the world.

The new 17-year-old expression (UK RRSP £260.99) features whisky matured in rare Mizunara oak barrels combined with spirit from rich Oloroso Sherry puncheons and hogsheads.

Mizunara is a scarce Japanese oak seldom used for whisky maturation due to its high cost and the challenges it poses in coopering and maturation. Its tendency to twist as it grows can create issues during stave production, and its porous nature means its casks are inclined to leak.

Translating to ‘water oak’ in English, Mizunara has very low tannins but high levels of vanilla-flavoured compounds. Its casks typically impart notes of sweet spices, sandalwood and charred oak.

Produced in Spain’s Andalusia region, Oloroso is a dry Sherry style subjected to lengthy oxidative ageing without a ‘flor’ yeast layer. It is known for its dark colour and pronounced nutty, dried fruit qualities.

The unique expression is the first in the brand’s new Masters of Wood series: a super-premium arm of its Wood Collection reserved for its most luxurious and experimental wood finishes.

The distillery’s tagline ‘Whisky in Good Hands’ and the new Masters of Wood series solidify The GlenAllachie’s standing as cask experts within the Scotch whisky arena.

The Mizunara & Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish is presented at 50% ABV, without artificial colouring or chill filtration.

Commenting on the high-end expression, Walker shares:

“As a chemist, I find both cask management and blending truly fascinating. This release combines the finest and rarest of casks with carefully considered blending. I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with Mizunara, a very uncommon Japanese oak that provides exceptional character but, in turn, throws plenty of challenges our way. Having said that, the result is beyond worth the trials and tribulations.

“The flavour delivery from the Mizunara barrels, interwoven with the nutty, spicy character of the Oloroso casks, culminates in a spectacular single malt with delectable notes of apple strudel, runny honey, chocolate-covered hazelnuts and stem ginger. This is indulgence at its finest.”

With a UK RRSP of £260.99, The GlenAllachie 17-year-old Mizunara & Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish will become increasingly available from today at specialist retailers globally.

ABOUT THE GLENALLACHIE:

At The GlenAllachie, each decision in creating our award-winning Speyside single malt merges logic with instinct. In the experienced hands of legendary whisky maker Billy Walker, a culture of precision, patience and perseverance has been instilled in his small yet accomplished team of whisky experts.

Being independent offers us the freedom to prioritise what matters most: quality. The pursuit is not of consistency, but perfection. Never resting on our laurels, we work tirelessly to refine and enhance each batch of whisky, striving to better the last.

The result of seamlessly coordinated collaboration is a range of carefully crafted and cask-perfected whiskies, each personally approved by Billy. With a quietly confident team of passionate whisky enthusiasts behind The GlenAllachie, you can be sure we have our whisky in good hands.

Our other brands are Meikle Tòir Peated Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, MacNair’s Boutique House of Spirits—which encompasses Lum Reek Blended Malt Scotch Whisky and Exploration Rum—and White Heather Blended Scotch Whisky.

Further information on the distillery and company can be found at www.theglenallachie.com

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TASTING NOTES:

The GlenAllachie 17-year-old Mizunara & Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish – 50% ABV

• Colour: Intense Mahogany.
• Nose: Heather honey, dried orange peel and crystalised ginger, with notes of cocoa, toasted tobacco leaves and fresh vanilla pods.
• Taste: Baking spices, dried blood orange and grilled honeycomb, followed by bursts of rich cocoa, poached cinnamon apples and fig syrup, with pecans and demerara sugar.

Royal Salute 21 Year Old Harris Reed Edition

The third release in Royal Salute’s Fashion Collection was made in collaboration with visionary designer, Harris Reed. This whisky, aged for 21 years, features a blend of ripe stone fruits, dark chocolate, and subtle spice. Ideal for collectors and enthusiasts of fine spirits.

£250

Blended Scotch Whisky 70cl / 40%

We are delighted to introduce you to our newest limited edition; The 32.  Celebrating the inextricable bond between our whisky and those who create it, The 32 is inspired by John Smith who led The Glenrothes through turbulent times as the Distillery Manager from 1897 – 1929.  With tasting notes including stewed plums, treacle toffee and Earl Grey tea, this whisky is the taste of a by-gone era, giving flavour and fragrance to the memory of a moment, and a man that continues to shape our present.

This exquisite limited edition, priced at £1950, is available exclusively to private clients and partners.

THE WHISKY

NOSE
Stewed plums, treacle toffee, cinnamon, oak and Earl Grey tea.

TASTE
Dried figs, dark chocolate and almond brittle. A bite of candied orange rind and lingering spice of gingerbread.

FINISH
Luxurious and complex with velvety sweetness and depth.

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