BALLANTINE’S REVEALS EXCLUSIVE PREMIUM BLEND FOR FESTIVE SEASON
 
Ballantine’s, the world’s No 2 range of blended Scotch whiskies, has added its first seasonal limited edition expression to the range, with the unveiling of Ballantine’s Christmas Reserve.  Aimed at attracting new and existing customers during the festive season, Ballantine’s Christmas Reserve will help to strengthen the brand’s position in key European markets.
 
Created by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, Ballantine’s Christmas Reserve is an exceptional blended whisky of superior quality which will be available annually for a limited period. The non-aged expression is a Scotch whisky category first, with its familiar seasonal notes and luxury Christmas aromas such as sweet wood, dried fruit, raisins and cinnamon.
 
Peter Moore, International Brand Director for Ballantine’s comments: “Predictably there’s always a strong focus on gifting at this time of the year so it was important for us to respond with a unique expression which would appeal to new customers as well as existing customers who are keen to trade up. Although a first for Ballantine’s, the Christmas Reserve perfectly represents the flair and substance that underpins the brand”.
 
Available from October to December 2010 in key markets such as Spain, France, Poland and Taiwan, Ballantine’s Christmas Reserve is presented in a white card box, with embossed snowflakes and elements of gold foil adding a premium festive feel.  Moving away from the traditional blue packaging that is synonymous with the brand, the striking new expression will ensure maximum shelf stand out for Ballantine’s during the busy sales period.
 
Tasting Notes

On the nose, Ballantine’s Christmas Reserve is rich, deep and fruity with hints of moist raisin fruitcake and sweet candy apples perfectly balanced out by caramel toffees and soft ripe pears. It tastes sweet with succulent tangy orange and a superb liquorice root and ginger flavour. The finish is very long, round and sweet.
 
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About Ballantine’s

Ballantine’s, the world’s No 2 range of blended Scotch whisky, has won over 60 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 iconic 30 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.
 
In July 2010 Chivas Brothers launched The Age Matters campaign to help consumers understand the importance of Scotch whisky age statements.