Experience the excellence of award-winning Tomatin whisky: The ultimate gift for whisky enthusiasts this Christmas 

Highland distillery unveils its ‘must-have’ whiskies to gift and celebrate this Christmas

Discover the true essence of the festive season by sharing or gifting a remarkable dram.

Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, Tomatin distillery is renowned for its portfolio of exquisite single malts. Behind this award-winning whisky, full of history and Scottish charm lies a loyal team, many with decades of experience, and a proud heritage that spans generations before them.

Tomatin – 12 Year Old single malt (70cl, 43% ABV, £48.50)

An award-winning flagship from Tomatin’s core range: a silky smooth single malt with a rich and fruity aroma.  

This remarkable 12 Year Old single malt is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, ex-Spanish sherry and traditional Scotch whisky casks.

Initial aromas of wild heather, pine and cedar soon reveal sweeter notes of crème caramel with apples, pears and mango, before a full-bodied and buttery finish.

The quality of this whisky was recognised at the world-renowned International Spirits Challenge receiving Gold in 2022 and 2021, and most recently, picking up Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers.

Tomatin – 14 Year Old single malt (70cl, 46% ABV, £76.50)

A rare single malt from Tomatin’s core range: silky and sweet, benefiting from its time spent in Tawny Port casks

This distinctive 14 year old single malt whisky is matured in Bourbon barrels and finished in Tawny Port casks which have previously held port for around 50 years.

A feather in the cap of Tomatin’s first class wood policy, a rich but balanced aromas of red berries are met with sweet honey and rich toffee which develop into aspects of light fruits and nuts to create an abiding finish of smooth fruit salad.

The quality of this whisky was recognised at the world-renowned International San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2021 picking up Gold and Double Gold in 2019.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers

Tomatin – 18 Year Old single malt (70cl, 46% ABV, £126.00)

 A jewel in the crown of Tomatin’s core range: a silky smooth single malt that enjoys its final maturation in Oloroso Sherry butts.

The Tomatin 18 Year Old is a truly luxurious world-class malt, matured in Spanish oak Oloroso sherry butts. It is a rich, complex and rewarding whisky that is natural in colour and non-chill filtered.

Initial aromas boast of dried apricot, nougat and distinctive nutty flavours which develop into bursts of tropical fruit with mellow undertones to create a rich and full-bodied finish.

This distinctive 18 year old is the most awarded in the range, with continual recognition at the world-renowned International San Francisco World Spirits Competition picking up Double Gold in 2022, 2019 and also in 2018.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers

Tomatin – PX Cask (70cl, 57.4% ABV, £399.00)

 An exceptional new limited-edition single malt bottled exclusively for the UK: a rich and intensely sweet spirit  

The UK Exclusive Single Cask 2001 bottled for specialist retailers across the UK and is beautifully aged in a Pedro Ximenez sherry butt. The whisky has been gently matured to develop a complex flavour profile, offering a unique mix of dark sweetness and bitter notes, demonstrating Tomatin’s continued craftsmanship in cask maturations.

Distilled in 2001 and bottled in 2022 this exceptional expression boasts initial aromas of of maple syrup, candied walnuts, prunes and rum-soaked sultanas, which later transitions into bitter aromas such as dark chocolate, treacle, espresso and leather.

Presented in a premium bottle and single cask packaging, crafted to reflect the quality of the whisky. This whisky is perfect for whisky connoisseur.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers

 Tasting notes

Tomatin 12 Year Old tasting notes

• Nose–Initially herbaceous with aromas of heather, wild mint, pinecones, and cedar soon sweetening to reveal notes of cookie dough, sultanas, caramelized sugar, and pine sap. There is a faint hint of leather and spice.
• Palate–Sweet and malty, reminiscent of a cheesecake base with dried apple, mango, and fresh pears. Crème caramel with raisin and Christmas spice.
• Finish –Buttery, full-bodied fruitiness gives way to tantalisingly dry notes of Oloroso.

Tomatin 14 Year Old tasting notes

• Nose– Top notes of fresh peach, mandarin, watermelon, and apple with deeper forest fruits like cherry and blackberry. There’s a touch of milk chocolate and a pop of honeycomb. Notes of clove and cardamom grow in intensity before another wave of fruit.
• Palate–The freshness on the nose has been preserved into a raspberry and strawberry jam, apricot compote, glace cherry, and crystallised ginger. Caramelised figs, prunes and nutty tones are indicative of the rich tawny port that once occupied these casks.
• Finish–A silky texture coats the mouth with jammy fruits and Byzantium spice.

Tomatin 18 Year Old tasting notes

• Nose– Immediate whiffs of VORS Oloroso Sherry; dried apricot, plum, nougat and distinctive nutty tones. Sweet notes of vanilla fudge and cinnamon baked pears are balanced with a faint suggestion of cigar box and leather bound books.
• Palate– A wonderful marriage of Oloroso Sherry and well-aged Tomatin provides bursts of tropical fruit and mellow savoury notes. Incredibly complex with marmalade, cooked apple, butterscotch and granola, cocoa powder and salted caramel all coming through.
• Finish– Full bodied and rich with continued nutty undertones and uplifting orange zest lingering on the palate.

PX Cask 2001 tasting notes 

• Nose– Rich with an intensely sweet opening bringing notes of maple syrup, candied walnuts, prunes and rum soaked sultanas. PX, despite being the sweetest wine in the world, has a way of presenting intriguing bitter aromas like dark chocolate, treacle, espresso and leather. With time, more dried fruit emerges with hints of dried apricot and raisins along with a touch of cinnamon.
• Palate– An incredible mouthfeel, almost chewy, the sweetness spreads with notes of cherry and plum liqueurs followed by golden syrup and Jamaican ginger cake. All of the bitter aromas from the nose make an appearance but always under a sweet guise.
• Finish– This is a bold whisky throughout and the mix of dark sweetness, bitter notes and spice lingers for quite some time.

About Tomatin

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands (near Inverness) and is famous for its portfolio of soft and mellow whiskies, including a core range, a limited-edition range, and a premium archive range (prices range from £35 – £17,500). Tomatin Single Malt is owned by Japanese company Takara Shuzo International: https://www.takara-intl.co.jp/en/

Tomatin has been dedicated to protecting its craft, its environment and particularly its community, which is at the very heart of the brand. Many of the craftspeople working on site have been doing so their entire working lives – all working towards producing a wide range of single malts, beloved across the world.

In 2022, Tomatin launched its new brand platform, ‘To What Matters’ – designed to remind people about the important things in life. ‘To What Matters’ is the latest chapter in the brand’s evolution; a positive call to arms that represents the spiritual DNA of Tomatin – a human belief in what’s truly important in life. The significant moments.

Recognition of the Highland distillery’s craftsmanship continues to grow globally.  In 2022, Tomatin was awarded ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition. Later that year, it was recognised as ‘Sustainable Distillery of the Year’ at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023, in recognition of its continued contribution to sustainably at the distillery.

In 2023, Tomatin’s Legacy single malt, part of the core range, was awarded Gold at the International Wine & Spirit Competition. It also took home seven awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, which is produced at the distillery in limited batches every winter, took home three. Later that year, Tomatin’s 36 Year Old single malt was recognised as ‘Best in Show’ at the SFWSC, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world.

AI creates endless designs for Label 5’s new Limited-Edition launch

Each bottle of whisky’s colourful ‘City Lights’ Edition is unique

Label 5 blended Scotch whisky has today (29^th September) launched a limited-edition design of its Classic Black blend to celebrate its cosmopolitan spirit.

Named ‘Label 5 City Lights Edition’, this new-look pack was created using Artificial Intelligence to take random snapshots of a colourful, computer-generated cityscape at night.

As a result, each bottle has its own unique label featuring a section of this vibrant design – randomly selected by an algorithm to ensure that no two bottles are the same.

Label 5 is crafted in Scotland and lives and breathes city life. This new campaign takes inspiration from the brand’s recent partnerships with the global graffiti community, including its sponsorship of this year’s Yardworks urban art and graffiti festival at SWG3 in Glasgow.

Label 5 City Lights is available exclusively in Morrisons stores throughout the UK. Customers who purchase a bottle will be invited to find their label design amongst the Label 5 skyline via https://www.label5-findyourlabel.com/

Yardworks Festival partnership 2023

 James Collins, Label 5’s UK Marketing Manager said: ‘Label 5 City Lights Edition is designed to be as unique and creative as the customers who enjoy our whisky. This globally renowned blended Scotch is known for its modern and urban take on whisky, and this new limited edition showcases this to spectacular effect. With the ability to pick from an endless sequence of designs generated by our algorithm, we hope drinkers enjoy their own unique and very special slice of Label 5 history’.

Label 5 City Light Edition is bottled in 1 litre at 40% ABV, retailing at £22.50 and is available in Morrison stores nationwide. Smooth and well-rounded with subtle smoke influences, Speyside malts provide the backbone to this blend’s delicate fruity character. Using time honoured traditions, the spirit is created using a combination of the finest grain and malt whiskies to give a whisky of superb quality and smoothness.

www.label-5.com

#Label5 #L5citylights #ScotchWhisky 

ABOUT LABEL 5

Top ten Scotch Whisky brand, LABEL 5 is carefully distilled, matured and bottled in our distilleries in Scotland. LABEL 5 is enjoyed in more than 100 countries and is renowned for its high quality and appreciated for its smoothness. With 2.6 M 9-L cases sold in 2015, LABEL 5 is a key player in the Scotch Whisky category. LABEL 5 First Blending Company – Starlaw Road, Bathgate, Scotland

ABOUT LA MARTINIQUAISE

An independent French group founded in 1934, LA MARTINIQUAISE is one of the biggest spirits groups in France and features in the world Top 10. The group which operates in 110 countries has a turnover of 950 million euros and is proud to own four millionaire brands: LABEL 5 & SIR EDWARD’S Scotch Whisky, POLIAKOV Vodka and NEGRITA Rum – Source: IMPACT 2015

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY ANNOUNCES “100 BOURBON SETS FOR 100 CHARITIES” INITIATIVE TO HONOR THE LEGACY OF E.H. TAYLOR, JR

Buffalo Trace Distillery to donate 100 sets of its finest whiskeys to support fundraising efforts for 100 nonprofit organizations 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (September 28, 2023) – In celebration of Bourbon Heritage Month, Buffalo Trace Distillery today announces a new, annual charitable initiative – “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” – honoring the legacy of Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr.

Often referred to as the founding father of the modern bourbon industry, Taylor was one of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s former owners and an instrumental figure in the movement that led to the 1897 passage of the Bottled in Bond Act. “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” pays homage to 100 proof, one of the many things required to be Bottled in Bond.

“E.H. Taylor contributed countless innovations to the bourbon industry in his time, but one of his most notable contributions was leading efforts that eventually resulted in the Bottled in Bond Act being passed,” said Andrew Duncan, Brand Director, Buffalo Trace Distillery. “At its core, Taylor’s support of the Bottled in Bond Act was about bettering the bourbon category for everyone – consumer, distillers, and communities. This passion for improving the world is one that continues at Buffalo Trace Distillery to this day, and we are proud to support nonprofit organizations in their efforts to make their neighborhoods a better place to call home.”

Featured products for the “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” initiative include lineups from some of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s most sought-after brands, including E.H. Taylor, Blanton’s, Eagle Rare, Weller and more. The number of bottles in each set may vary. Interested nonprofits can register their organization here. 

“Giving back and supporting organizations is important to us at Buffalo Trace Distillery,” said Duncan. “We are humbled by the work our partners continue to do and honored to be able to support them in their efforts.”

Charities of all kinds are encouraged to apply for “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities.” All entries must be received within 100 days – by January 4, 2024 – for consideration. Selected charities will be announced February 29, 2024 in honor of Bottled in Bond Day that Sunday, March 3. Bottles sets will be delivered within 30 days following the selection announcement. Organizations MUST use their bottle sets and report back their monies raised by August 1, 2024. 

Buffalo Trace Distillery will coordinate the logistics of transporting bottles to selected organizations based on the legal requirements in each state. Proceeds will be announced September 2024 in celebration of National Bourbon Heritage Month.

The Bottled in Bond Act was first-of-its kind legislation that saved whiskey in America. Passage of the Act led to increased quality and consumer safety across categories (and the formation of the modern FDA) and paved the way for the focus on quality & innovation that Buffalo Trace Distillery maintains today.

Bottled in Bond required distillers to label aged spirits, mostly American Whiskey, as “bottled-in-bond,” meaning the product meets the following criteria:

• The spirit must be produced in a single distillation season by a single distillery.
• The spirit must mature in a U.S. bonded warehouse for a minimum of four years.
• The aged spirit must be bottled at 50% ABV (or, 100 proof).

For any questions regarding the “100 Bourbon Sets for 100 Charities” initiative, please email charity@buffalotrace.com. For more information on Buffalo Trace Distillery and its ongoing charitable efforts, please visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Stay up to date with news from Buffalo Trace Distillery by following along on Instagram and Facebook.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 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 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 40 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Buffalo Trace Distillery also has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com

Jack Daniel’s Goes Global with New American Single Malt Whiskey 

The brand’s first permanent expression crafted from 100% malted barley is available now at duty-free outlets worldwide

Lynchburg, Tennessee (September 26, 2023) – The Jack Daniel Distillery introduces Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey as the brand’s first permanent expression crafted from 100% malted barley. Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is offered in a 1-liter size packaging at 90 proof for a suggested retail price of $99.99 and is available now exclusively in select duty-free retail locations across the globe.

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is the latest innovation from the Jack Daniel Distillery, featuring a 100% malted barley mash bill that is ground, fermented and distilled in Lynchburg, Tennessee. The special whiskey is charcoal mellowed and then aged in new, charred American oak barrels before being finished in Oloroso Sherry Casks.

“When we began experimenting with a 100% malt grain bill back in 2012, we knew it would be critical to put our own stamp on timeless Single Malt traditions and craft something that was uniquely Jack Daniel’s,” said Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Chris Fletcher. “There was a lot of excitement surrounding our limited edition American Single Malt Special Release last year, and we are thrilled to now offer Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt to our friends around the world.”

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is rich and complex with aromas of soft oak, fruit and cocoa and notes of dark chocolate-covered nuts and berries with a subtle, sweet Oloroso Sherry finish. Distinctive packaging features a cork stopper and an embossed distillery stamp of America’s First Registered Distillery.

Offered in a 1-liter size at 90 proof (45% abv), Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt is available in select duty-free outlets worldwide beginning this month. To mark the launch, Jack Daniel’s is hosting more than 40 activations at airports across the globe, reaching an estimated 13 million shoppers and offering 60,000 tastings.

 For more information, visit www.jackdaniels.com.

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Bonded, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.

Please Drink Responsibly.

Jack Daniel’s American Single Malt Whiskey, 45% alc. by vol. Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee. JACK DANIEL’S is a registered trademark. ©2023 Jack Daniel’s. All rights reserved.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ANTIQUE COLLECTION FOR THE FALL 2023 SEASON

This year’s collection includes the oldest Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon in BTAC history

FRANKFORT, FRANKLIN COUNTY, KY (OCT. 9, 2023) – Buffalo Trace Distillery is pleased to announce the return of its award-winning Antique Collection for the fall 2023 season, showcasing the products that best represent the Distillery’s exceptional craftmanship and dedication to distilling high-quality, award-winning spirits. This year’s portfolio includes all five Buffalo Trace Antique Collection  (BTAC) staples: George T. Stagg Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey, Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old Whiskey, William Larue Weller Bourbon, and a milestone for this year, the oldest Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon in the collection’s history.

The spirits in the Antique Collection are aged and proofed at the pinnacle of their flavor profiles to embody the best possible expression of each whiskey. Each expression is stored in a unique crystal-clear glass bottle to showcase its gorgeous color, complemented with a back label that provides a complete product story and description. The limited-edition Antique Collection bottles are sold separately and will be available at retail in early October at a suggested retail price of $124.99 (local taxes and fees will vary).

Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old Bourbon

At 19 years and three months old, this year’s Eagle Rare-17-Year-Old Bourbon marks the oldest release of the spirit since its 23-year inclusion in the Antique Collection. This whiskey was distilled in the spring of 2004, and barrels were aged in Warehouses C, I, K, M, and Q. Eagle Rare 17 is once again bottled at 101 proof in tribute to the original Eagle Rare brand launched in 1975. The expression imbues tasting notes of dark chocolate and cherry pie filling on the nose with a well-balanced flavor of caramel-drizzled chocolate sponge cake, finishing with dry and spicy notes of an earthy cigar box. The 2022 Eagle Rare 17 release won Taste Master for the 2023 American Whiskey Masters, making it the overall winner of the entire competition.

*17 years indicates the minimum age for Eagle Rare 17 barrels to be bottled. With taste as a priority for the distilling and lab experts at Buffalo Trace Distillery, the age of actual barrels in the whiskey varies yearly to meet its ideal flavor profile.

George T. Stagg Bourbon

At 135 proof, the 2023 George T. Stagg offering was distilled in the spring of 2008, and its barrels were aged in Warehouses C, I, K, L, and M. This powerful 15 years and 4-months-old bourbon is described as having scents of cinnamon and cherry cola and a well-balanced mix of leather, chocolate, and vanilla on the palate, complete with a robust, earthy finish. Last season’s George T. Stagg placed 1^st for the Best American Whisky in the 2023 International Whisky Competition.

Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old Whiskey

The 2023 Sazerac 18-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey release flaunts a scent of dried orange, rye grain, clove and aniseed, a palate of black pepper, vanilla, and waves of oak, and a florally honey and tobacco leaf finish. This collection of rye whiskey barrels was filled between the fall of 2004 and the spring of 2005 and aged in Warehouses K, L, and M. The previous release of Sazerac Rye 18 earned the Gold Medal in the 2023 American Whiskey Masters.

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Whiskey

The 2023 Thomas H. Handy expression is comprised of barrels aged for over six years. Initially launched in response to a consumer request for more well-aged and barrel-strength whiskey, this uncut, unfiltered straight rye whiskey clocks in at 124.9 proof. The flavor profile includes an aroma of orange zest and lemon oil, caramel, and hints of pine. On the palate, freshly baked rye bread spread with orange marmalade and honey appear first, followed by a lingering finish of light oak and black licorice. Judges at The Spirits Business 2023 American Whiskey Masters awarded last season’s Handy a Master Medal.

William Larue Weller Bourbon

Crafted in response to a consumer request for more well-aged and barrel-strength whiskey, William Larue Weller is the Antique Collection’s uncut, unfiltered, wheated recipe bourbon. This year’s offering was distilled in the spring of 2011, and its barrels were aged in Warehouses C, L, M, and N. The 2023 William Larue Weller bourbon registers at 133.6 proof, surpassing last year’s proof offering of 124.7. Candied notes of dark brown sugar and vanilla bean are found on the nose, followed by a warm and full palate with stewed cherry and brown sugar crumble and a robust, dense finish enveloped with baking spice and a hint of maple syrup. The 2022 Antique Collection Weller secured a Master Medal during the 2023 American Whiskey Masters.

About The Antique Collection

The Antique Collection was introduced more than two decades ago and is comprised of five whiskeys released each year in the fall: George T. Stagg, William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, Eagle Rare 17-Year-Old and Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old. Buffalo Trace Distillery has been humbled by the numerous awards bestowed on the collection from such notable publications as Whisky Advocate Magazine and Spirit Journal. For more information on the Antique Collection visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/antique-collection.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 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 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 40 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Buffalo Trace Distillery also has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

The 40^th Anniversary year sees The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

release one of its oldest and most exceptional whiskies ever.

To close out its 40^th anniversary year, the biggest whisky fan club in the world, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, unveils a 40 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky from a Single Cask to share the society’s legacy in the best way they know how: with an exceptional whisky for its members.

The Society started with a group of friends who had the opportunity to buy and share a single cask of whisky and were dazzled by the unadulterated beauty of its flavor. At the time, they believed they had discovered the secret to drinking the best whisky on the planet. The philosophy of sharing and savoring single cask bottlings has stayed at the heart of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s maverick ethos ever since. This dedication to truly delicious drams has seen The Scotch Malt Whisky Society extend into 28 countries and boast almost 40,000 members globally.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s 40th Anniversary release, Society Cask Number 12.79, is one of the oldest Single Malt Scotch whiskies the society has ever released. It follows hot on the heels of the Society’s success at the Distillers One of One Auction where The Only Drop, a bottling adorned with an innovative sustainable art sculpture, reached £15,000 at the prestigious charity auction.

This ex-bourbon barrel was first laid down in April 1983, at the very same time as The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was starting its whisky journey, which makes it even more fitting that this is the final release in a collection of eclectic and wonderful celebratory whiskies that have been launched to celebrate this milestone birthday. In anticipation of 2023, the expert Spirits Team at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society handpicked and curated this cask in 2018 with a transfer to a refill Spanish oak sherry hogshead to deepen the flavor and add a brilliantly fitting birthday cake spice character to the liquid.

Maturing for a further five years, each and every year the liquid was sampled to ensure the whisky was just as intended until it was ready to bottle for the 40^th Anniversary. The result is a wonderfully mature and very elegant whisky that you’d be forgiven for spending hours unravelling the deep layers of its flavor and character with a drinking experience that’s enhanced by a beautifully unique, one-of-a-kind bottle. This whisky is the epitome of elegance and good taste and represents The Society legacy and why members around the world savor its whisky.

As such an exquisite and rare whisky – only 130 bottles of this will be available on sale solely to members of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. What’s more is that, as part of the birthday celebrations, 40 members of The Society will be selected at random from all corners of the world and surprised with a complimentary dram of this celebratory expression, ensuring this whisky can be shared across the globe by members on The Society’s journey.

Euan Campbell, Head of Whisky Creation at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society: “This cask was initially laid down to mature in 1983, which just so happens to be the year that the Scotch Malt Whisky Society was founded.

“It seemed only appropriate that we chose it for the 40th anniversary celebrations. We’ve been monitoring this one very closely for a number of years. We knew this was the right time to bottle it and share it with people to enjoy this 40-year-old whisky in our 40^th year. After so many years of maturing in an ex-bourbon barrel, we decided to take the flavor in a different direction and moved the whisky into a refill Spanish oak, Oloroso hogshead. The key to it being refill was that it would be quite relaxed and complementary, adding another layer of complexity without being too intense for such an old fragile whisky. It stayed in that cask for a further five years. There are only 130 bottles of this. It’s just one to really savor and appreciate the influence of cask on flavor.”

Rebecca Hamilton, Chief Marketing & Experience Officer for The Scotch Malt Whisky Society: “We are the original pioneers in cask strength, single cask, one-off Scotch whisky. We have kept this exceptionally aged, cask matured and flavor curated bottling true to our origins with a nostalgic nod to our celebrated past throughout the creation process. It is also in a beautifully minimalistic bottle that really ensures the whisky itself is the hero. We have treated this bottle as we would create a piece of art, with craftspeople working together to do justice to the years in cask. We also wanted to pay homage to our beloved iconic green bottle, collected by many the world over. This bottle has been a passionate collaboration of artists and designers and is also a reflection of how The Society began – from that ‘wow’ epiphany moment to the global single cask whisky fan club we are now. I know that members will cherish this spectacular piece for years to come.”

No paper labels are used in the design. Instead, the minimal words are printed directly on glass giving an unrestricted view of the unadulterated whisky within, ensuring it’s the real hero. One third of the bottle has also been hand dipped from cork to collar in dark green wax, which pays homage to the society’s infamous and iconic green bottle. As it has been hand dipped, the wax detail produces a different coating every time, meaning each of the 130 bottles is truly unique. The bottle rests on a handcrafted walnut plinth and a museum quality clear case finishes the piece and allows the member to proudly display it in their collection.

This special bottling will be available in the UK, Europe, US, China, Japan, Australia and Taiwan. Retail price into market will include £3000 GBP (for UK), $3995 USD (for US) and €3480 EUR for European markets.

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is a global whisky club that celebrates 40 years of sharing delicious drams with its members in 2023.
• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 when a group of friends stumbled on the delights of whisky drawn directly from a single cask – undiluted and unadulterated.
• Over the past 40 years, the society has expanded to 28 countries and boasts almost 40,000 members and its focus on flavor discovery has never waivered.
• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society specializes in single casks bottlings of single malt whisky – it seeks out whisky in its most natural form and prizes the discovery of flavor above all else. Each bottling has a unique number identifying its origins and is given a curious name.
• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society releases almost 1,000 different bottlings a year, including rare single casks and single malt whiskies, exclusive blends and a range of other Single Cask Spirits.
• It is owned by The Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC) plc.
• The Society has bottled whisky from 180 distilleries from Scotland and beyond.
• Members enjoy exclusive access to a constant variety of cask strength whiskies hand-picked by the Scotch Malt Whisky expert tasting panel, as well as access to four exclusive Scotch Malt Whisky Society Members’ Rooms in Leith, Edinburgh, Glasgow and London, along with a global network of 100 partner bars.
• For more information about the Society, visit: www.smws.com, YouTube: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

About The Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC)

• The Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC) plc is based in Edinburgh.
• The Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC) plc is building a portfolio of premium brands that bring together some of the world’s best spirits producers with a growing movement of discerning consumers by curating unrivalled collections of craft spirits.
• The Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC) plc owns The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. In 2021, it launched J.G. Thomson & Co. which was inspired by its namesake who was originally a wine and spirits merchant in Leith, Scotland in the 1700s. J.G. Thomson is a new, adventurous blender, creating small batch blended malt whiskies, blended grain whiskies, rum and gin.

THE MACALLAN REVEALS A NEW EDITION OF THE HARMONY COLLECTION IN COLLABORATION WITH STELLA AND MARY MCCARTNEY

The Macallan has announced a collaboration with Stella and Mary McCartney, united by curiosity, respect and admiration for the natural world.

Stella and Mary have partnered with The Macallan on the creation of the third edition of The Harmony Collection – the limited annual release series which shines a spotlight on the brand’s inherent curiosity and innovative and creative mindset.

The third release in The Harmony Collection celebrates the lands of Scotland that connect all those who have stood upon them for generations.

The third instalment in the annual release series includes two distinctive expressions: The Macallan Harmony Collection Amber Meadow and Green Meadow, inspired by The McCartney sisters’ love of Scotland which stems from their memories in the Scottish countryside.

To mark this deep connection with the land, the presentation boxes and bottle labels have been made using discarded meadow cuttings embracing the re-use of natural materials to create beauty from resources at the end of their lives.

The packaging of each release features photography of The Macallan Estate captured by Mary McCartney.

The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team has taken inspiration from natural Scottish grasslands to create two distinctive, limited-edition whiskies, using a combination of sherry seasoned oak and bourbon casks.

Steven Bremner, Whisky Maker said: “There is so much to discover with The Macallan Harmony Collection Amber Meadow. It is a single malt redolent of warm meadows and mature barley fields, with a rich, citrus scented finish.

“The 100% natural summer evening colour derived from our exceptional sherry seasoned oak and bourbon casks reflects the richness of the flavour which awaits. On the nose fresh citrus fruits and honeysuckle are complemented by hints of vanilla, coconut and ripe barley fields. On tasting, notes of oak, lemon, melon are prominent, accompanied by flavours of classic scone and almond with green tea, before giving way to a rich and sweet long finish.”

The Macallan Harmony Collection Amber Meadow and Green Meadow will be available from October 2023 at a RRSP of £160.

The unique partnership will also focus on a Collection of lifestyle pieces.

A first for Stella and Mary, the partnership with The Macallan marks a creative union of the McCartney sisters. This debut joint venture combines their creative talents in a collaboration which enables them to celebrate their memories of Scotland.

TOGETHER: A Collection for The Macallan by Stella and Mary McCartney introduces a limited-edition Collection of 11 lifestyle pieces designed by the sisters and skilfully realised by master artisans and craftspeople.

The Collection showcases a curated selection of bespoke pieces including handmade glassware in vibrant shades that are coloured using natural minerals, an ombre ceramic flask encased in an apple leather alternative sleeve, a pair of brass ice stamps with meticulously hand-painted ceramic handles using a green and amber ombre colour blend and a brass napkin weight in the shape of an acorn, as a tribute to the exceptional oak casks which mature The Macallan whisky.  

Stella and Mary’s logo makes its debut across the full range, alongside The Macallan logo. TOGETHER is exclusively sold as a complete set and will be available in limited numbers from 11 October 2023.

For further information visit HERE

Tasting notes: The Macallan Harmony Collection Amber Meadow (ABV 44.2%)

Colour: Summer evening

Aroma: Rich orange and lemon, honeysuckle, vanilla, coconut and ripe barley fields

Palate: Rich oak, lemon, melon, classic scone, almond and green tea

Finish: Rich, sweet, long and complex

Tasting notes: The Macallan Harmony Collection Green Meadow (ABV 40.2%)

Colour: Spring morning

Aroma: Fresh orange and lemon, wild primrose, petrichor, honeydew melon, bluebells

Palate: Rich lemon, barley sugars, creamy vanilla, almonds, fresh oak

Finish: Sweet, fragrant, long and creamy

TOGETHER: A Collection for The Macallan by Stella and Mary McCartney includes:

Pair of Glass Tumblers

Glass Water Jug

Glass Ice Bucket and Brass Tongs

Ceramic Flask with Apple Leather Alternative Sleeve

Pair of Ice Stamps in Apple Leather Alternative and Wooden Presentation Box

Set of Three Ceramic Bowls

Set of Six Ceramic Coasters

Brass Napkin Weight

Brass Tray with Apple Leather Alternative Inlay

Lambswool Blanket

Pair of Limited-Editon Brass Framed Prints, Photography by Mary McCartney of The Macallan Estate

About The Macallan

Founded in 1824 on a plateau above the River Spey in north-east Scotland, The Macallan is renowned globally for its incomparable craftsmanship, creativity and innovation with each bottle of single malt whisky revealing its unique mastery of wood and spirit.

Social and environmental sustainability is at the heart of The Macallan, and as part of its commitment to establishing a positive legacy it revealed its award-winning new Distillery in 2018. Designed by internationally acclaimed architects, the building takes inspiration from the surrounding ancient Scottish hills and is located on The Macallan’s beautiful 485-acre Estate. To this day, the single greatest influence on The Macallan’s sought after portfolio of single malts is its sherry seasoned oak casks from which its whiskies derive their distinctive flavours, aromas and natural colour.

Crafted without compromise. Please savour The Macallan responsibly.

Old Pulteney reveals second expression within limited edition Coastal Series with Old Pulteney Port

Old Pulteney has announced the latest expression in ‘The Coastal Series’, a collection which comprises four exciting limited-edition whiskies matured in casks from seaside locations around the world, the first launching last year.

Old Pulteney Port features Pulteney distillery’s award-winning single malt, further matured in Ruby Port Pipes and Ruby Port Barriques from the Douro Valley wine region of Northern Portugal.

The single malt expertly intertwines the coastal flavours of fruity, rich Port wine and The Maritime Malt. 

Old Pulteney Port will be available in the UK from September 27th via Old Pulteney’s website and distillery shop, before rolling out to specialist whisky retailers. 

Old Pulteney, The Maritime Malt, has announced the second expression within its limited edition Coastal Series: Old Pulteney Port.

The Coastal Series takes whisky drinkers on a voyage of exploration with cask maturations from around the world. To create the Series, Old Pulteney has partnered with spirits makers from coastal locations across the globe, further maturing its much-loved whisky in a specialist selection of casks and creating four beautifully unique, limited edition expressions that bring wonderful new coastal flavours to ‘The Maritime Malt’.

Old Pulteney Port is a wonderful marriage of flavours from two iconic spirits, both found close to the sea – single malt Scotch whisky from Wick in the Scottish Highlands, and Port from the Douro Valley of Northern Portugal. Carefully matured in second-fill ex-bourbon casks, the expression was then further matured in both hand-selected Ruby Port Pipes and Barriques, absorbing the rich flavours of the delicious, fortified wine. Like Old Pulteney, the creation of Port goes back centuries and plays a huge part in the history of its region.

The American oak casks, Ruby Port Pipes and Ruby Port Barriques come together beautifully, showcasing their coastal heritage and resulting in a stunning single malt, balanced with sweet and spicy notes and a touch of minerality, of which Old Pulteney is known for.

Old Pulteney Port emerges rose gold in colour, enticing the senses with a combination of fragrant and rich aromas. On the nose, the dried fruits are unmissable, with notes of sultanas and buttery vanilla. These make way for candied orange, marzipan cherries and cinnamon swirls on the palate. The rich fruity flavours of the Pipe and Barrique maturation complement the lightly sea-salted notes that come from the influence of the Caithness Coast, where Old Pulteney calls home.

Presented in a sleek ruby red box which reflects the deep colours of Port, the packaging features an elegant illustration of the Portuguese coast and a luxurious golden trim. Non-chilled filtered to enjoy as nature intended, Old Pulteney Port will launched on the 27^th September in the UK, rolling out to specialist whisky retailers from Monday 2nd October. The European release will follow shortly after before launching in the US in 2024.

Malcolm Waring, Distillery Manager at Pulteney said: “It’s a true honour to welcome the second expression in Old Pulteney’s Coastal Series – Old Pulteney Port. A delicious balance of the rich, juicy flavours that comes from Port with the sea-saltiness that Old Pulteney is known and loved for, the result is an exceptional single malt that deserves to be savoured.

“Old Pulteney Port is a wonderful addition to our series of limited editions, shining a spotlight on another coastal region through a beautiful cask maturation, and follows from the success of our first CoastalSeries expression, Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes, perfectly.”

The first expression of The Coastal Series, Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes, brought flavours of the French coastline to The Maritime Malt, through the use of ex-Pineau des Charentes wine casks, which brought echoes of the iconic, sweet aperitif native to the Charente-Maritime region of France and intertwining them with the flavours of Old Pulteney. Following the success of the initial expression, Old Pulteney continues to celebrate its maritime links, with further expressions launching in 2024 and 2025.

Old Pulteney Port is available to purchase from Old Pulteney official website, The Whisky Exchange and other specialist whisky retailers at £75.

About Old Pulteney

Old Pulteney’s story, distillery, and whisky is shaped by the sea itself. The unique combination of brisk sea air and meticulous cask selection makes its flavour unlike other single malt Scotch whiskies.

The Coastal Series is a collection of whiskies that have been matured in seaside casks. The series is made up of four expressions, which will be released annually from 2022. The first expression to be launched is Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes.

Old Pulteney will be showcasing Old Pulteney Port at Whisky Show London from 29^th September – 1^stOctober, followed by Whisky Live Paris from 21^st to the 23^rd October, for whisky lovers across Europe to sample and enjoy.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Rose gold with a peach highlight.

Nose: Rich sultana sweetness with vanilla and buttery notes, candied orange peel and hints of gingerbread. Undertones of cherries, marzipan and dark chocolate add depth and balance.

Palate: Sweet and spicy with notes of baked apples, caramelised sugar and cinnamon swirl pastries. Opens up further with vanilla custard, a touch of rose water and The Maritime Malt’s signature minerality.

Finish: The taste continues into delicate and fruity notes, warming spices and plum jam sweetness.

MICHTER’S BRINGS EAGERLY AWAITED LIMITED-EDITION

 WHISKIES TO THE UK

Michter’s, the renowned, award-winning American whiskey producer, is thrilled to announce the launch of two highly anticipated limited-edition releases to the UK market: 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye and 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon, exclusively distributed in the market by Speciality Brands.

These sought-after whiskies mark the return of the 10 Year Bourbon after its last unveiling in 2021, while also reintroducing the 10 Year Rye following its success in July 2022.

These two whiskies are the result of over a decade of patient ageing in specially chosen, new fire-charred American white oak barrels, developing layers of rich flavour and character. The Rye showcases deep notes of vanilla and toffee, toasted almonds and cinnamon with a kick of crushed pepper, brightened by a hint of orange citrus. The Bourbon boasts a robust flavour profile, with dominant notes of dark toffee, caramel, and charred oak, rounded off beautifully with a touch of maple syrup and vanilla.

“I thought that the 10 Year Old Bourbon we are now releasing was drinking beautifully last year, but our Master Distiller Dan McKee and our Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson told me that with one more year of maturation it would be extraordinary,” stated Michter’s President Joseph J. Magliocco. “At Michter’s the goal we strive for is to produce the greatest American whiskey. We’re grateful for all the understanding and patience that our loyal Michter’s fans have shown in waiting an additional year for the release of our 10 Year Bourbon.”

Andrea Wilson, Michter’s Master of Maturation, shared her enthusiasm, says “The 10 Year Rye release is elegant, yet full of herbal and honey characters with warm spice resulting in a captivating, rich, smooth drinking experience. I am hopeful that it will bring a smile to everyone who experiences it.”

Michter’s Distillery boasts a storied history of producing traditional American whiskeys of exceptional quality. Each offering is meticulously aged to achieve peak maturity, and their portfolio includes rye, bourbon, sour mash whiskey, and American whiskey.

Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (46.4$ ABV, 70cl, RRP: : £181.52) and Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon (47.2% ABV, 70cl, RRP: £141.53) will be available on allocation across all channels from September onwards.

About Michter’s:

The distillery’s commitment to excellence has garnered international recognition, with Michter’s being named the Most Admired American Whiskey in a global survey conducted in October 2022. Furthermore, the prestigious Drinks International Annual Brands Report crowned Michter’s as the #1 Top Trending American Whiskey brand in January 2023.

https://michters.com/

About Speciality Brands

Speciality Brands is an award-winning, premium drinks agency representing some of the world’s finest spirits. Its portfolio is solely focused on premium spirits and includes Michter’s, Camus, Nikka, Kavalan, Cocchi, Black Tot rum and Tapatio. A dedicated team of well-respected drinks industry personalities including award-winning mixologists, top brand ambassadors, experienced account managers and marketing experts is led by Managing Director Chris Seale. The agency’s passion is delivering first class products, in-depth educational trainings and impeccable service levels to the premium on-trade and retail sectors.

https://specialitybrands.com/