Samuel Gulliver’s & Co. proudly announce ‘The Fine Drop’

Award-winning whisky producers, Samuel Gulliver’s & Co. are delighted to announce their latest English whisky: The Fine Drop. This latest expression is released in honour of 20 years since the men’s England Rugby team won the Rugby World Cup back in 2003 when, with 28 seconds remaining Jonny Wilkinson scored a drop goal with his right foot securing a 20-17 victory for England. This whisky is a celebration of England Rugby’s Finest Drop Goal and joins Samuel Gulliver’s England’s No. 6 Single Malt Whisky as the Official Whiskies of England Rugby.

The Fine Drop is a single malt English whisky distilled at The English Whisky Company in Norfolk, and bottled exclusively for England Rugby by Samuel Gulliver & Co. The whisky is a perfect combination of the finest English ingredients; the purest water and the highest quality Concerto two-row local-grown barley. The whisky is then matured in ex-red wine château-style French oak casks from Margaux, Bordeaux, providing dark cherry, lightly spiced currant, and roasted aromas. These beautiful red wine casks have been selected as they hail from France – a nod to where the Rugby World Cup will be held this year, and Gulliver’s are the first English whisky company to release a Margaux cask-finished whisky.

This latest expression joins Samuel Gulliver’s award-winning range of English single malt whiskies, and sits alongside their peated Bourbon Cask, 10-Year-Old Quarter Cask, STR (Toasted and Re- Charred Cask), PX Sherry Cask and their England’s No. 6 Single Malt.

Founder, Stuart Gulliver, expressed his excitement stating, “We are absolutely delighted to be unveiling our latest expression: The Fine Drop. This exceptional English whisky pays homage to the historic moment when England’s rugby team clinched victory against Australia with an unforgettable drop goal to become World Champions. I’ve played and coached rugby for 50 years, including coaching some of team playing in the World Cup, so being The Official Whisky of England Rugby is a real personal thrill for me and my 3 rugby-playing sons.”

As with every release, the aim with The Fine Drop is to stay true to the vision of the original Samuel Gulliver back in 1747: to create a diverse range of spirits where each bottle exemplifies the skill and craftsmanship of the artisan distillers and producers from around the world.

Bottled at 46% ABV, without chill-filtration and with natural colour, The Fine Drop is available for £79 and will is available through their online store as well as retail specialists.

For more information and the latest on their range of award-winning Single Malt Whiskies, visit https://www.samuelgulliver.com/

RRP: £79, Gulliver’s Whisky

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Shiraz rosé colour

Aroma: Delicate malt and dark cherry

Taste: Fruity, lightly spiced currants

Finish: Sweet start moves into a red berry, dry finish

F: SamuelGulliver&Co / I: @samuelgulliverandco

​

NEW ASSOCIATION LAUNCHED TO PROTECT CASK WHISKY CUSTOMERS AND UPHOLD THE REPUTATION OF THE SCOTCH INDUSTRY

Members and Advisors of the Cask Whisky Association gathered at The Glenturret.

Today (21st September 2023) sees the launch of the Cask Whisky Association (CWA), a new organisation established to create a safe environment for whisky enthusiasts and customers to buy and sell casks.

The CWA is made up of two boards of Members and Advisors and includes cask whisky businesses, distilleries, independent bottlers, whisky experts and authors as well as legal and insurance professionals working within the sector.

By setting best practices in cask whisky ownership and sale, the Association aims to protect cask whisky customers and the wider whisky industry.

Chairman of the Advisory Board and spokesman for the CWA Colin Hampden-White says the Association’s goal is to uphold the overall reputation of the Scotch whisky industry.

“The Cask Whisky Association exists to protect private customers from unscrupulous business practices and traders and safeguard independent bottlers from over-inflated pricing,” Colin says, adding: “Our Members are committed to, and will provide guidance on, best practice.”

Taking action

Wendy Chamberlain MP, Chair of the Scotch Whisky APPG, has today written to the business minister responsible for the Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Bill, seeking clarification on whether the new consumer legislation will increase protections for investors in cask whisky. She says in the letter: “Having met with the Cask Whisky Association, I am aware that there are many reputable organisations who want to provide good investment opportunities to enthusiasts and investors alike. The actions of bad actors in this field risk harming not only consumers, but the reputation of Scotch whisky and the long-term viability of the industry as a whole.”

The Association has also met with Lord Richard Harrington – who is leading the government review of foreign direct investment (FDI). Harrington said of the Association: “This type of cross-industry collaboration is welcomed. Where blind spots in regulation exist, such as in the cask investment space, it is encouraging to see different parts of the industry coming together to address the issues that emerge. Scotch is a true British success story so measures must be put in place to protect the integrity of the sector.”

Other MPs whom recognise the need to better protect investors are also lending their support to the Association.

Nickie Aiken, MP for Cities of London and Westminster, says: “I am delighted to hear of the great work of the Cask Whisky Association, which is being set up to educate and protect investors in the fast-growing cask whisky market. As the sector continues to grow, it’s vital that adequate protections are in place for consumers and investors alike.”

The Association is in discussions with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), the Worshipful Company of Distillers and the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), seeking cooperation and collaboration to address issues in the sector. It is also petitioning The Bonded Warehousekeepers Association (The BWA) to gain their support.

Whisky expert and author Hans Offringa sits on the CWA’s advisory board. He says: “If you want to buy whisky go to a trusted company and get some advice, that way you will avoid any pitfalls. That’s why I think certification and licensing is so important; the Cask Whisky Association provides a quality hallmark for people looking to buy and invest in whisky. There are a lot of cowboys out there and we don’t  want them to discredit good companies and ruin good business.”

Membership to the CWA is open to UK-based, financially-stable companies who uphold quality standards and retain all appropriate licences.

The CWA is a voluntary organisation open to all cask whisky companies. Applications will be reviewed semi-annually by the executive board and overseen by the independent advisory board.

Please visit the website for further information

Follow the CWA on social media:
Instagram – caskwhiskyassociation
Facebook – Cask Whisky Association
X – @caskwhiskyassoc
LinkedIn – Cask Whisky Association

ABOUT THE CASK WHISKY ASSOCIATION (CWA)

The Cask Whisky Association was established and launched in 2023.

The CWA brings together stakeholders leading on best practice to safeguard the industry and consumer.

The carefully-curated board of Advisors offer a depth and breadth of knowledge from all sides of the industry and includes distilleries, authors, journalists as well as insurance and legal professionals.

CWA Executive Board

Keith Rennie – Director at Scotch Whisky International Ltd
Simon Aron – Managing Director of Cask Trade Ltd
Saul Kelly – Managing Director of Fruitful Spirits Ltd
George Stewart – Director of Stewart Whisky Company Ltd
Danny Saltman – Director of Malts at DS Tayman
Saul Taylor – Managing Director of Dalkeith Brokerage Ltd
Russell Spratley – Director of Spiritfilled Ltd

CWA Advisory Board

Colin Hampden-White – TV presenter and whisky journalist
Charles Maclean – Author and whisky expert
Hans Offringa – Author and whisky expert
George Frier – Partner at Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP
Patricia Dillon – Managing Director of Speyside Distillers Co. Ltd
John Laurie – Managing Director of The Glenturret
Graeme Dempster – Account Executive at insurance broker Bruce Stevenson
Martin Purvis – Associate Director of Kelvin Cooperage

https://caskwhiskyassociation.org

Anchors Aweigh with the Launch of Sausalito Liquor Co.

Unsinkable Whiskeys Bottle Up the Spirit and Soul of Sausalito

SAUSALITO, Calif. (Oct.12, 2023) – For those on the noble search for a cocktail without conventional expectations, we introduce Sausalito Liquor Co. – the creator of delicious, bold, and unapologetically drinkable spirits inspired by the magic of Sausalito, California. These spirits are meant to be enjoyed with just a few other simple ingredients in any glass you have handy and with good friends and family – no Ph.D. in mixology required.

It’s launching with a splash by rolling out two whiskeys that have been honored with 2023 L.A. Spirits and San Diego Spirits Festival Awards: Unsinkable Bourbon and Unsinkable Rye. Starting in October, they’ll be available at sausalitoliquor.com with shipping to 42 states, and will soon make their way to bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout California.

Sip the Spirit of Sausalito

Sausalito Liquor Co. is a new standout brand in the spirits category. It celebrates the beauty, free spirit, offbeat nature and authenticity of Sausalito, and it taps into the emotion that makes the town a remarkable place to live and a worldwide travel destination.

“Our goal with Sausalito Liquor Co. is to provide spirit drinkers with the same welcoming, authentic, and unpretentious experience that has drawn independent thinkers, artists, iconoclasts and the occasional misfit to Sausalito for over a century. We want to offer people the chance to immerse themselves in the magic of the moment, without the constraints of conventional expectations,” says Scott Jampol, Sausalito Liquor Co. founder, former marketing executive, and part-time local bartender. “I’m an advocate for doing things the easy-drinking way, and I don’t think there should be any rules on how to enjoy good spirits. It’s okay that you don’t catch every nuance or identify every flavor. I just care that you like the way it makes you feel, much in the same way you can love a song or a piece of art without having to explain why.”

Pour Yourself a Finger or Three

Sausalito Liquor Co.’s whiskeys each bring their own character and story, similar to the artists, adventurers, musicians, makers, and maritime culture that call Sausalito home.

Unsinkable Bourbon: Named to reflect both the enduring spirit of the bootleggers, artists, musicians, anchor-outs, free-thinkers, and trailblazers who have flocked to Sausalito for decades, as well as a nod to the Liberty Ships built in Sausalito during World War II. We’ve taken exceptional, well-aged bourbon and finished it in Napa Cabernet Sauvignon barrels to bring out a whole host of new flavors. Ridiculously drinkable whiskey with a spirit that’s Unsinkable. A 750 mL bottle is $54.99.

Unsinkable Rye: Whether you’re very aware of the difference between rye and bourbon, or you’re very tired of people trying to explain it to you, our Unsinkable Rye is the answer. We’ve taken some of the finest Kentucky rye and aged it in Napa port wine barrels to create a whiskey that’s unmistakably rye but with a touch of sweetness that is a healthy step towards a great Manhattan. A 750 mL bottle is $54.99.

Sausalito: The Welcoming Hand at the End of the Golden Gate Bridge

Sausalito Liquor Co. was created to reflect the charm and unique vibe of Sausalito and the surrounding area, highlighting the bold creative history of the town and its unique seaside geography. Sausalito has long been defined by passion, independent thinking, intrigue, and maybe a dash of mischief. It built Liberty Ships for the war, sheltered rum runners during prohibition, inspired songs and poems from its storied waterfront, and unknown to many, served as a hub of spirit distilling from 1892 until 1963 when a catastrophic fire ended this distilling history. Today, Sausalito Liquor Co. is the only spirits company in the city, returning the distilling tradition to this unique seaside town.

Why call all of this attention to one little (but great) area when this new spirits brand is available nearly nationwide? The main ingredient is the spirit of Sausalito. A character we describe as being “a little offshore.” It’s not mainstream or mainland, and everyone can enjoy its vibe no matter where they are. It’s a place where creativity thrives, relaxation is embraced, and the beauty of the bay becomes a backdrop for memorable experiences, such as exploring houseboats and art galleries, swaying to jazz, taking in views from hikes in the headlands, or just sitting at the shore.

For retailers, restaurants and bars interested in selling or serving the spirits, email info@sausalitoliquor.com. For everyone interested in trying something new and #alittleoffshore, pull up a chair or blanket or weathered, wooden stump and join us for a sip of Sausalito Liquor Co.’s delicious spirits. Cheers!

ABOUT SAUSALITO LIQUOR COMPANY

Sausalito Liquor Co. is a Northern California spirits brand with delicious, bold, and unapologetically drinkable gin and whiskey lines. We’re not mainstream or mainland. Our Marin Coastal Gin and Unsinkable Bourbon and Rye celebrate the beauty, free spirit, offbeat nature, and authenticity of the unique seaside town of Sausalito, California – a place that’s a little offshore of everywhere else. You can find our L.A. Spirits Award and San Diego Spirits Festival Award-winning spirits as well as more information about us at sausalitoliquor.com and on Instagram.

Whisky production commences at Dunphail Distillery

First distillation takes place at new Speyside distillery

Dunphail’s on-site malthouse and kiln honours and preserves the craft of traditional distillery malting

Dunphail today announced that full production had commenced at its recently opened distillery and visitor centre in Morayshire. Following the sign off of all the approvals required to commence operations, the first cut of Dunphail’s newly distilled “fat and fruity” spirit took place at 10:15am on 6^th October.

The distillery was self-constructed over 18 months by the team behind the acclaimed Bimber Distillery. The 200,000 LPA capacity site, converted from an existing farm steading, now aims to shift the perceptions of what Scotch whisky can be.

Taking the traditions of the past to craft the whisky of the future, Dunphail will operate a the full suite of time-honoured processes including: on-site floor malting; traditional kilning; long fermentations and directly-fired stills. Producing both unpeated and peated single malt whiskies, the distillery will employ these long-established techniques to craft highly textural, fruit-forward single malt whiskies which offer a profound, expressive character kindred to the most distinctive whiskies created in Scotland’s past.

Dunphail’s malthouse features the first distillery-based malting floor newly constructed in Speyside since 1898. As well as fundamental to Dunphail’s whisky character, the facility was carefully designed and built to preserve this highly traditional craft and is operated using traditional malting tools.

Speaking of commencing production at Dunphail, Founder and Master Distiller Dariusz Plazewski said: “It has long been my calling to produce whisky that has been shaped by the richness of distilling heritage. At Dunphail we’re taking a extremely detailed approach to our whisky making – combining our knowledge and deep passion to ensure that everything we do is driven by the fundamentals of flavour and quality. Constructing the distillery over the last 18 months has been both a lifelong dream and one of the biggest challenges of my career. But that time and effort has been well worth it – our first batch of new make spirit is simply astonishing and unlike anything I’ve tasted to date. It is incredibly fat and fruity and already packed full of the personality derived from our traditional production processes. I’m looking forward to sharing it and working with my team to shape it into a truly extraordinary Speyside whisky over the years to come.”

The distillery’s visitor centre and shop opened earlier this year, offering daily tours and tastings of Dunphail’s Dava Way whiskies to a growing number of visitors. Over time it is envisaged that the distillery’s tour programme will be expanded to include both deep-dive warehouse experiences as well as visitor blending sessions.

About Dunphail Distillery 

Dunphail produces world-class full-bodied, fruit-forward single malt whisky using the full range of traditional production processes, each one shaped by generations of rich distilling heritage. We take a meticulous approach to whisky making, combining knowledge with passion to ensure that everything we do is driven by the foundations of flavour and quality. We craft the finest whisky the way it used to be made – taking the traditions of the past to shape the whisky of tomorrow.

Lochlea celebrates the autumn season on the farm

with ‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) release

Award winning farm-to-cask Ayrshire distillery – Lochlea – is revealing the third expression in a new set of four seasonal limited edition whiskies – Fallow – that celebrates autumn on the farm.

‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) reveals the richer, darker flavours found in Lochlea’s house whisky profile. Matured exclusively in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, the whisky is full of sweet and spiced notes – perfect to sip and savour as the dark, autumnal nights close in.

The whisky pays homage to a vitally important time of year on the farm, marking the months when the land finally has time to rest and be restored. It is also a key part of the sustainability programme at Lochea – both as part of the farm and the distillery.

After nearly five months of barley growth on the farm – followed by harvest in September – the team at Lochlea plant cover crops of mustard and radish to open up the soil through winter, whilst also creating a leafy canopy to help prevent soil erosion. This cover crop is then intensively grazed with sheep for 4 to 6 weeks, before it is consolidated back into the soil as added organic material.

In addition to this, straw bales – which are the by-product of growing barley – are provided to neighbouring farmers for them to use as bedding for their cattle. Some of this comes back as manure, which is then spread back onto the barley fields in the winter before ploughing – all adding to the natural and sustainable practices which are a key part of every-day life at Lochlea.

Lochlea owner and farmer Neil McGeoch said: “Fallow season within our farming calendar is a vital time of year for us to regenerate the land ready for our barley to grow well in the spring and summer. This release is so important to us, as it gives us a chance to tell the story of the farm and explain some of our sustainable practices.”

The split between the two different types of sherry cask used for ‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) are 55% Pedro Ximénez casks and 45% Oloroso casks.

Production Director John Campbell said: “ In this ‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) – the third in our new set of four seasonal limited editions – we have used a combination of Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez (PX) Sherry Butts. The introduction of the PX casks this year creates a very different flavour profile to our first release of ‘Fallow Edition’ (First Crop) last year, which saw us use only Oloroso casks.”

“This warming and unctuous whisky starts with aromas of rich manuka honey, moving to luscious golden syrup and ground coffee beans. Layers of sweetly spiced candied ginger follow on the palate, leading to the finish offering hints of freshly crushed almonds.

We’re proud of this bold, rich whisky and hope Lochlea lovers will enjoy exploring this other side to our house spirit!”

Lochlea’s seasonal releases are as follows:

• Fallow Edition: reflects the season of autumn on the farm when the fields are left fallow to rest after a busy harvest.
• Ploughing Edition: released in winter when the fields are ploughed in preparation for spring.
• Sowing Edition: inspired by spring when the seed is sown for the year’s barley crop.
• Harvest Edition: inspired by the annual harvest on the farm.

As with all of Lochlea’s whiskies, ‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) is non-chill filtered – it has been bottled at 46% ABV – RRP: £51.50, available from Lochlea stockists from 26^th October onwards.

In addition to the seasonal limited edition releases, Lochlea has a core whisky expression available all year round – Our Barley. This unpeated single malt has been matured in a combination of three different casks: first fill ex-bourbon, Oloroso sherry casks and STR barriques, all of which add depths of flavour to the spirit. Launched in July 2022, Our Barley has received much acclaim as a superb example of a young non-age statement (NAS) Lowlands whisky, made entirely from the distillery’s own home-grown barley.

NEW WINE CASK WHISKIES

FROM THE GLENALLACHIE

Prominent Scotch whisky distillery rolls out three

new limited edition single malts matured in fine wine casks

Leading Scotch whisky producer The GlenAllachie today introduces a second tranche of single malt bottlings to join its acclaimed Wine Cask Series.

The trio of new bottlings include an 11-year-old Premier Cru Classé Cask Finish (UK RRSP £63), a 10-year-old Grattamacco Cask Finish (UK RRSP £58) and a 9-year-old Douro Valley Cask Finish (UK RRSP £57).

The rare oak casks were expertly sourced by The GlenAllachie’s Master Distiller and leading whisky maker of 50 years, Billy Walker, from three fine wine producers located in France, Italy and Portugal.

Each expression was initially matured in premium ex-Bourbon American oak barrels before being transferred to the various European red wine casks.

With 1,800 cases produced, the 11-year-old was aged in French oak that previously held a prestigious Premier Cru Classé wine, obtained from one of just five châteaux to hold this top Bordeaux wine classification. The subsequent whisky boasts “notes of blackcurrant cordial, warming mocha, truffle and gingersnap biscuits”.

Hailing from Italy, the certified organic Super Tuscan barriques from Grattamacco – the second winery established in the renowned Bolgheri region – have imparted “layers of pink grapefruit, wild honey, raspberry jelly and sweet spice” on the 2,600 cases of 10-year-old single malt created.

Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest protected wine regions, holds some of Portugal’s most esteemed wine estates with the country’s highest classification: Denominação de Origem Controlada (DOC). The rare barriques have delivered “hints of dried apricots, cinnamon sticks and vanilla custard,” with a total of 2,000 cases of whisky available.

The three expressions are proudly presented at a high strength of 48% ABV, are unchill filtered and have no added colouring.

Remarking on the launch, Walker shares:

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have worked with some of the best wine producers in Europe for these wonderful releases. I’m a devoted wine enthusiast, so, on a personal level, this series brings together two passions: fine wine and Scotch whisky.

“We’re proud to have achieved a vast spectrum of flavour characteristics across these three bottlings: the Premier Cru Classé offers up rich dark fruit attributes; the Grattamacco overflows with brown sugar and honeycomb notes; and the Douro Valley delivers an elegant stone fruit quality.”

Last month, The GlenAllachie announced its new peated single malt brand, Meikle Tòir, with a portfolio of four products, including the coveted Turbo 2023 Edition with just 2,500 bottles released worldwide.

With UK RRSPs starting at £57, The GlenAllachie Wine Cask Series Batch 2 will become increasingly available over the coming weeks from global specialist retailers.

TASTING NOTES

The GlenAllachie 11-year-old Premier Cru Classé Wine Cask Finish – 48% ABV

• Colour: Polished Bronze.
• Nose: Waves of butterscotch, blackcurrant and heather honey, with hints of minerality, poached orchard fruits and orange zest.

• Taste: Layers of honeycomb, black fruits and dark chocolate, followed by coffee, truffle and cinnamon, with crème de cassis and ginger on the finish.

The GlenAllachie 10-year-old Grattamacco Wine Cask Finish – 48% ABV

• Colour: Rose Gold.
• Nose: Bursting with dark chocolate, butterscotch and heather honey, with notes of blackcurrant, caramelised brown sugar and cinnamon spice.

• Taste: Waves of ripe red berries, grapefruit and toasted honeycomb, followed by butterscotch, sugared fruit and black truffle.

The GlenAllachie 9-year-old Douro Valley Wine Cask Finish – 48% ABV

• Colour: Rich Redwood.
• Nose: Waves of plum jam, clementines and dried red berries, with notes of heather honey and vanilla spice.

• Taste: Bursting with dried apricots, heather honey and crystalised fruits, followed by hints of ripe black fruits, butterscotch and cinnamon spice.

ABOUT GLENALLACHIE:

One of Scotland’s few independently owned and managed distilleries, The GlenAllachie is led by industry veteran, Billy Walker, who boasts over a half-century’s tenure in whisky. With an emphasis on wood policy, The GlenAllachie’s cask budget for 2023 stands at an eye-watering £2.7m/$3.3m. With 16 on-site warehouses holding over 50,000 casks, we have complete control of the end-to-end maturation process.

The GlenAllachie focuses on quality over quantity, which is why we chose to reduce our production capacity from 4 million to around 800,000 LOA (Litres of Alcohol) and increase our fermentation period to 160 hours for an ester-rich, fruity spirit.

We believe age and integrity matter, which is why all our whiskies carry an age statement and are bottled at a minimum of 46% ABV, natural colour and non-chill filtered for maximum flavour.

Our other brands are Meikle Tòir Peated Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, MacNair’s Boutique House of Spirits – encompassing Lum Reek Blended Malt Scotch Whisky – and White Heather Blended Scotch Whisky.

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

Facebook         |          X          |         Instagram

Timorous Beastie Marks this Friday 13^th with new Thrilling “Meet the Beast” limited edition bottling

To mark the infamous Friday 13^th date, Douglas Laing today reveals the latest Timorous Beastie MEET THE BEAST limited edition.

This remarkable release comes with an ingenious ‘Illusion’ pack that adds a thrilling dimension to your tasting experience. Inside each pack is specially designed pair of glasses that will unveil the hidden secrets of this whisky as you prepare to confront the elusive beast.

Bottled at natural cask strength this “beastly” creation boasts a formidable 54.3% ABV and matured exclusively in bourbon casks, ensuring an intense and unadulterated tasting experience of a “burst of sweet vanilla and spiced citrus fruits with sweet meringue and fudge finish”. Alongside no colouring or chill-filtration, preserving the whisky’s true character.

Scott Morrison, Timorous Beastie Brand Manager, commented on the new release:

“We are truly thrilled to introduce ‘MEET THE BEAST’ 2023, our latest limited edition that pushes the boundaries of whisky experience. With its unique Illusion pack, natural cask strength, and exclusive bourbon cask maturation, this release embodies our commitment to innovation and quality. We invite whisky enthusiasts to join us on a journey where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the BEAST is unleashed. Cheers to a truly exceptional tasting adventure!”

Timorous Beastie “Meet the Beast” 2023 is expected to retail at £55.00/€64.00 online and in specialist retailers around the world.

Key Features include of this unique bottling include:

• Natural Cask Strength: This beastly creation boasts a formidable natural cask strength of 54.3%, ensuring an intense and unadulterated tasting experience.
• The unique packaging comes to life with the help of the included glasses, offering a captivating visual element to your whisky enjoyment.
• 100% Bourbon Cask Matured: The whisky has matured exclusively in bourbon casks, infusing it with distinctive flavours from the American oak.
• No Colouring or Chill-Filtration, preserving the whisky’s true character.

Tasting Notes:

“Expect a colossal burst of sweet vanilla, spiced citrus fruits and juicy barley on the nose. The palate opens with freshly baked gingerbread, lashings of runny honey and gentle spice. The finish is long and lingering, with an abundance of sweet meringue and caramel fudge.” 

ABOUT TIMOROUS BEASTIE

Twitter/X @DLaingWhisky

Instagram: @timorousbeastiewhisky

Facebook: /dltimorousbeastie

Established in 2014 by Douglas Laing & Co, Timorous Beastie represents “ultimate distillation of the Highlands” in a small batch marriage of Single Malts distilled at Glengoyne, Glen Garioch, Blair Athol and Strathearn Distilleries, amongst others. The multi award-winning Scotch is distributed in over 50 markets globally and has amassed a loyal following.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distillery, blender and bottler specialising in the selection and release of Single Cask Single and Small Batch Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family – Fred Laing Jr and his daughter Cara Laing.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and without chill filtration to preserve the robust and unique character of the Whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards is testament to this ethos.

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay).

Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old Particular, Xtra Old Particular and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.

Why Whiskies Like This Glendronach Are To Thank For The Creation of Signatory Vintage 

Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh and the independent bottler, Signatory Vintage, have an interesting, shared history. 

This Glendronach 1970 18 Year Old Prestonfield House may be, in part, to thank for the creation of one of the most iconic independent bottlers in the Scotch whisky industry.

Prestonfield House Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Edinburgh and has intrinsic links to Signatory Vintage through the founder of the independent bottling company, Andrew Symington. Symington worked at Prestonfield House as the Assistant Manager in the 1980s, when the hotel had a number of single malt whiskies bottled especially for the hotel and its exclusive clientele.

In the 1980s, single malt, single cask whiskies were not the done thing, and were relatively uncommon. As such, the Prestonfield House bottlings were something of an innovation, and allowed the hotel to offer something select for their guests. With the help of Andrew Symington, Prestonfield House bottled some incredible cask strength whiskies, and Symington found a new passion. Soon after, Signatory Vintage was established.

Since its inception in 1988, Signatory Vintage has bottled some very impressive whiskies including this stunning Rosebank 1960 32 Year OId and a 1967 30 Year Old Ardbeg matured in an Oloroso butt.

In 2023, Mark Littler Limited was contacted by a private client who was lucky enough to own one of the bottlings that started it all. This Glendronach 1970 18 Year Old was bottled for Prestonfield House in the same year that Signatory Vintage was born, elegantly tying together the history of the two companies. The whisky was bottled from casks 542-558 and is bottle number 2142 of a limited edition.

If you are a fan of Signatory Vintage, then this bottle truly is a piece of Scotch whisky history. Who knows, without bottlings such as this, would Signatory Vintage exist at all?

BUY NOW: Glendonach 1970 18 Year Old Prestonfield House 

About Mark Littler Limited

Mark Littler is an independent whisky broker, market analyst and consultant with over a decade of experience in the industry. Each week he publishes new videos on his YouTube channel about topics such as cask investment fraud (and how to avoid it), the history of distilleries and bottles, debunking whisky investment myths and much more. For more information visit www.marklittler.com

If you are interested in the Glendronach 1970 18 Year Old Prestonfield House, or would like to chat to one of the team about our other services, please get in touch.

Email: whisky@marklittler.com

Telephone: 01260 218 718

The Dalmore unveils the first in

a four-year programme of rare whisky collections 

The Cask Curation Series Sherry Edition marks the first release in a series

celebrating The Dalmore’s whisky making artistry and the role exquisite casks

play in the creation of the iconic Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The Dalmore Distillery, Scotland

October 2023. The Dalmore’s Cask Curation Series will feature celebrated makers and their partnerships with The Dalmore. The 2023 release – The Sherry Edition – features renowned fifth-generation winemakers González Byass, of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Each set in the collection comprises three exceptional aged-statement whiskies finished in the finest of González Byass casks, available exclusively to the whisky makers of The Dalmore.

Strictly limited to just 150 sets worldwide, The Sherry Collection is beautifully presented in a bespoke leather-finished travel case hand-crafted in Florence, Italy – perfectly framing the trio of new expressions. Each age-statement whisky is housed in the iconic Dalmore bottle adorned with a matching collar;

• The 26 Year Old, finished in rare González Byass 2002 Vintage, Cask No.4
• The 28 Year Old, finished in very rare González Byass 30 Year Old Matusalem Sherry Cask
• The 43 Year Old, finished in very rare González Byass 30 Year Old Apostoles Sherry Cask

Each expression in the collection represents The Dalmore Single Malt finished in González Byass Sherry Casks in its purist form; natural colour, non-chill-filtered, and cask-strength.

97 years of whisky making artistry are captured in this collection, created at The Dalmore Distillery, Scotland, by Master Whisky Makers Gregg Glass and Richard Paterson OBE. The Sherry Edition celebrates The Dalmore’s century-old exclusive partnership with the finest winemakers of Jerez de la Frontera – González Byass. This fifth-generation winery is led today by Master Winemaker Antonio Flores, and his daughter Silvia Flores.

González Byass bodega exterior

The four master makers of Spain and Scotland, each at the top of their craft, inherit a time-honoured collaboration between the two noble houses of wine and whisky making. The Sherry Edition is an expression of the whisky making artistry of this truly special relationship between The Dalmore and González Byass. The collection encapsulates their shared pursuit of the perfect composition.

The Sherry Edition story is born on the vine in sun-drenched Andalucia, a tale of the finest winemaking in a place whose character is shaped by the Easterly Mediterranean breeze and Atlantic winds from the West. Sherry wine is laid down here to develop its character over time, alive as it serpentines from cask to cask.

Each Sherry cask resides in a magnificent bodega, a spiritual place with a unique impression of peace, light, and space. On their regular visits to these hallowed winemaking spaces, The Dalmore’s whisky makers pick out those casks with the perfect potential for maturing whisky. Each cask has already lived a lifetime under the watchful eye of the winemakers at González Byass, before being selected for their new role as vessels for the finest Single Malt Scotch at The Dalmore. The Sherry Edition features three whiskies which have enjoyed a cask maturation between them of 80 years drenched in González Byass wines.

The curation of exquisite casks is intrinsic to the whisky making artistry for which The Dalmore has become world renowned. The Dalmore distillery was established to create a Single Malt like no other, leading to the pioneering of multi-cask maturation in 1868. Led today by Gregg Glass and Richard Paterson OBE, The Dalmore is home to an unbroken chain of visionary whisky makers, curating the rarest of casks in pursuit of creating truly exceptional whisky.

The Dalmore distillery’s collection of idiosyncratic stills creates a New Make spirit of unique character and depth – robust and fruity, particularly well-suited to longer and more complex maturation. This allows The Dalmore whisky makers to develop spirit over longer periods, and inspires them to seek out the finest and rarest casks from the world’s greatest vineyards and bodegas. Each of these exquisite casks offers unique potential, its characteristics influencing the personality of the Single Malt as it quietly matures over the months, years, and decades.

This collection is the first chapter. In 2024 the second release in The Dalmore Cask Curation Series will shine a light on the influence Port pipes have on the spirit, and celebrate our partnership with a famous Port wine maker. The third release arrives in 2025, followed by the fourth and final release concluding the series in 2026. Each release will celebrate The Dalmore’s exclusive relationships with the world’s finest makers of wine and spirits.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series – The Sherry Edition is a story of the unique potential for whisky maturation offered by rare González Byass casks. The Sherry Edition, launches 3^rd October, and is available worldwide in select outlets.

For more information: www.thedalmore.com/

About Cask Curation Collection: Sherry Edition

26YO Vintage Sherry Finish   

Cask strength, natural colour and non-chill filtered 

“This cask is a true reflection of the natural beauty, balance and charm that The Dalmore offers.  A one-off expression that radiates with a myriad of exotic flavour experiences with sensory evolutions unique to and within our house style. It is an expression of our cask curation at its finest” Gregg Glass, Master Whisky Maker​​

The 26 Year Old Vintage Sherry Finish is matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in Cask #4 – a 2002 Vintage Sherry Cask

26YO / 1996 / ABV 48.2%

THE AROMA

Orange blossom honey, apricot, Madagascan vanilla, and cacao

ON THE PALATE

Golden raisins, mandarin citrus, iced cherry cake, and sugared almonds

FINISHING NOTES

Fresh baked brioche, light roasted coffee, crystalised ginger, and warm vanilla  

28YO Matusalem Finish  

Cask strength, natural colour and non-chill filtered

“A melody of flavours brought together in pure harmony through the classic influence of our renowned 30 Years Old Matusalem Oloroso Sherry butts – the result is a treasure chest of pure liquid gold.” Richard Paterson OBE, Master Blender​​

The 28 Year Old Matusalem Finish Matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in Cask #73 – a very rare 30 Year old Matusalem Sherry Cask

28YO / 1994 / ABV 55.3%

THE AROMA

Rich dark fruits, Manuka honey, liquorice, sweet tobacco, and star fruit

ON THE PALATE

Antique Sherry-soaked raisins, Old English marmalade, marzipan, and liquorice

FINISHING NOTES

Waves of dark cherries, molasses, dark chocolate, and cassia bark

43YO Apostoles Finish   

Cask strength, natural colour and non-chill filtered 

“The Dalmore 43 Year Old is a timeless classic. This noble spirit was nurtured and finished over many years, creating an unsurpassed journey of pure charm and sophistication.” 

Richard Paterson & Gregg Glass​

The 43 YO Apostoles Finish is matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in Cask #1 – a very rare 30 Year Old Apostoles Sherry Cask

43YO / 1979 / ABV 46.8%                                   

THE AROMA

Warm honey, roasted chestnuts, sun-kissed raisins, and Seville orange

ON THE PALATE

Sweet Madagascan vanilla, dark forest fruits, crushed almonds, and dark chocolate

FINISHING NOTES

Fresh baked brioche, grilled pineapple, and blood orange with a long sweet cinnamon finish  

Pricing (per set)

About The Dalmore:

Founded in 1839 on the banks of the Cromarty Firth in the Scottish Highlands, the Dalmore has been making masterpieces of whisky for over 180 years.

The 12-point silver stag which proudly adorns each bottle was bestowed upon the first chieftain of Clan Mackenzie in 1263 by King Alexander III of Scotland. The stag became the whisky’s emblem when descendants of the clan took over the distillery in 1878.

The Dalmore distillery’s collection of idiosyncratic stills creates a New Make spirit of unique character and depth – robust and fruity, particularly well-suited to longer and more complex maturation. This allows renowned Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass and his team to develop spirit over longer periods, continuing a tradition of visionary whisky-making as they fully express their art using rare casks from some of the world’s finest wineries and bodegas.

About González Byass: 

It was 1835 when a youthful Manuel María González Ángel embarked on a long career in the world of wine. Tradition, innovation, sustainability, and the search for excellence are his legacy.

The young entrepreneur Manuel María González started his career in the world of a wine as a trader, working with Juan Bautista Dubosc and Francisco Gutiérrez de Agüera. However, his company grew successfully so quickly that he soon deemed it necessary to become involved in production too. He did so with the help of his maternal uncle, José Ángel, nicknamed ‘Tio Pepe’, who taught him everything he knew. He named the very first solera “Tío Pepe’s Solera” in his honour. This was the origin of the world’s most famous Fino, which in 1854, just 20 years later, became one of the leading players in and first exporter of Sherry, a privileged position that it would keep for a long time.

The first bottles of Tío Pepe were sent to the United Kingdom on the advice of Robert Blake Byass, the company’s agent in England, to whom Manuel María sent a letter with the recommendation of selling an “exceptionally pale” wine. The successful uptake of the wine led the two businessmen to form a partnership to promote exports, and the González Byass name was born.

This period saw the construction of La Constancia winery, the first winery in Jerez, which has been followed by the acquisition of others, both in Spain and internationally. Today, the 5th generation of still run it as a family business and spread their passion for wine to more than 100 countries all over the world.

At González Byass we have stayed true to our roots whilst also moving forward to offer the best wines and spirits all over the world. This commitment has seen us grow to 14 wineries in Spain, Chile, and Mexico, as well as producing a range of prominent spirits.

In recent years we have purchased Veramonte in Chile, Pedro Domecq in Mexico, and our latest acquisition, Dominio Fournier, in the heart of the Ribera del Duero. Over this period we have increased the spirits family through the creation of our premium gin ranges, The London Nº 1 and MOM, and Nomad, our whisky made and aged in Scotland and finished in Jerez.

KNOB CREEK® BOURBON PARTNERS WITH SMITHEY IRONWARE® TO RELEASE A LIMITED EDITION CAST IRON SKILLET IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

 Honoring the brands’ shared commitment to the art of craftsmanship, the Knob Creek x Smithey 18x Seasoned Limited Edition Cast Iron Skillet Set celebrates the re-release of Knob Creek^® 18 Year Old Bourbon

CLERMONT, KY – October 20, 2023 – Knob Creek^®, a leader in the Small Batch Bourbon category, announces a partnership with Smithey Ironware, premium manufacturer of artisanal cookware, to create a limited edition high-quality cast iron skillet. To celebrate the re-release of Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon, the skillet is seasoned 18 times, 15 times more than Smithey’s traditional skillets, creating a naturally non-stick cast iron with a rich, deep copper color and easy-to-clean finish.

“Knob Creek fans appreciate the quality of intentional workmanship, and we’re excited to re-release our extra-aged Knob Creek 18 Year Old for a limited time,” said Seventh Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe. “The partnership between Knob Creek and Smithey Ironware came from the passion that both brands have for the details, whether it’s with cooking or in a fine glass of bourbon. With this special 18x seasoned cast iron skillet, we were able to come together and create a product that celebrates those fine details, alongside the re-release of Knob Creek’s oldest release to date.”

Savoring the aging process, Knob Creek transforms as it matures in its oak barrels and a cast iron’s performance improves as layers of seasoning build with each use. Aged twice as long as its flagship bourbon, Knob Creek 18 Year Old is a complex yet balanced bourbon with deep flavors of caramelized oak and sweet vanilla with a warm finish. Just like the deep flavors that are developed when cooking with a cast iron skillet, Knob Creek 18 Year Old has exceptional full flavor.

“The partnership between Knob Creek and Smithey came together seamlessly. Both brands stand on the pillar of detailed craftsmanship, so creating a product together that demonstrates that was only right,” said Smithey Ironware Founder, Isaac Morton. “We’re excited to offer this exclusive cast iron skillet to compliment the 18 years that Knob Creek’s expertly aged limited edition bourbon, and we know culinary and bourbon fans alike will really appreciate what we’ve designed together.”

For home cooks and bourbon aficionados, Knob Creek and Smithey Ironware worked with Brian Landry, Executive Chef The Kitchen Table, QED Hospitality, to create three unique recipes with the 18x seasoned cast iron skillet in mind. Each dish incorporates Knob Creek expressions as an integral ingredient and highlights the whiskey’s robust flavors, giving fans the opportunity to experience the ultimate sipping and savoring experience. These recipes will be available with purchase of the Knob Creek x Smithey Cast Iron Skillet Set at https://smithey.com/products/knob-creek-x-smithey-18x-seasoned-cast-iron-skillet-set.

For those looking to experience artisanal craftsmanship, the Knob Creek x Smithey 18x Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet Set is here just in time for the holidays. Starting on October 20, the set will be available in limited quantities at https://smithey.com/products/knob-creek-x-smithey-18x-seasoned-cast-iron-skillet-set, for $300.00. Each set features the limited edition 12-inch 18x seasoned cast iron skillet, two custom Clayton & Crume leather coasters and Knob Creek-inspired recipes. Knob Creek 18 Year Old is also available in limited quantities at nationwide retailers with an SRP of $169.99 for a 750mL bottle.

About Knob Creek® Bourbon

Knob Creek has set the standard for super-premium whiskey for three decades by crafting extraordinary full- flavored bourbon with a rich taste. Knob Creek bourbons and ryes are patiently aged to perfection in new, maximum charred American Oak barrels to impart the biggest and fullest flavor on our whiskey. No matter the expression, Knob Creek is crafted without shortcuts and embodies the pre-Prohibition style that founding distiller Booker Noe created in 1992. Since then, Knob Creek has lived up to such standards with the introduction of Knob Creek Straight Rye Whiskey in 2012, and later on, Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Rye Whiskey. In recent years, Knob Creek announced the permanent addition of Knob Creek 12 Year Old Bourbon to its portfolio, launched two limited releases, Knob Creek 15 Year Old Bourbon and Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon, and announced the addition of an age statement to its flagship rye whiskey, Knob Creek 7 Year Old Rye Whiskey. 

About Beam Suntory

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands.  Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker’s Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory’s core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, 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 www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com. 

About Smithey Ironware

Smithey Ironware Company crafts premium quality cast iron and carbon steel cookware in the USA. Smithey makes cookware that is as beautiful as it is functional with smooth interior surfaces that are naturally non-stick and easy to clean. Every Smithey is designed to become a family heirloom and will last lifetimes.

Knob Creek® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 50% Alc./vol. ©2023 James B. Beam Distilling Company, Clermont KY.