Woodford Reserve Names Elizabeth McCall Master Distiller

Louisville, KY – Woodford Reserve today named Elizabeth McCall as Master Distiller, the third in the bourbon brand’s 26-year history, succeeding Chris Morris, who will assume the role of Master Distiller Emeritus.

McCall, who has been training for the Master Distiller role for over a decade, will oversee quality and innovation efforts and bring new Woodford Reserve products to market. She will lead the brand’s special, rare bourbon releases, including the Master’s Collection and Distillery Series, bringing her unique touch and point of view to new whiskies.

McCall said she is deeply honored to take the baton from her mentor and friend, whom she called a legend in the spirits industry.

Morris will remain an essential part of the Woodford team in an emeritus role, the highest honor one can achieve as a distiller.

“I am humbled to stand upon the foundation built by Chris Morris, who is one of the most well-known and respected Master Distillers in the world,” McCall said. “I look forward to following in his footsteps and crafting the world’s finest bourbon.”

Morris began mentoring McCall to take the Master Distiller role in 2015, when she became Master Taster. McCall became Woodford Reserve Assistant Master Distiller five years ago this month, in February 2018.

“I am proud of – and confident in – Elizabeth’s ability to maintain the award-winning flavor profile of the Woodford Reserve family into the next generation,” Morris said. “Her inquisitive nature bodes well for those who have come to expect innovative flavor concepts from our Master’s Collection and Distillery Series offerings. The future couldn’t be more promising for Woodford Reserve.”

McCall joined Brown‑Forman, Woodford Reserve’s parent company, in 2009 as a member of the Research & Development department. She began her career setting up tasting panels to ensure quality and consistency with the company’s products.

She is the second generation of her family to work in the spirits industry – following her mother’s footsteps – after earning her master’s degree from the University of Louisville. McCall and her husband, Matt, live in Louisville and have one child with another on the way.

About Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve, the Presenting Sponsor of The Kentucky Derby, is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery, tucked in the heart of thoroughbred country in Versailles, Kentucky. A National Historic Landmark, the Woodford Reserve Distillery represents craftsmanship with a balance of historic heritage and modern practices. Woodford Reserve is a product of the Brown‑Forman Corporation, a premier producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands including Jack Daniel’s, Finlandia, Korbel, Tequila Herradura, Old Forester, Sonoma‑Cutrer and Chambord. Please enjoy your bourbon responsibly. To learn more about Woodford Reserve, visit us www.woodfordreserve.com or check us out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve.

Sotheby’s to offer

Bowmore ARC-52: The ‘Mokume Edition’

A unique decanter specially designed by Aston Martin

featuring a unique 52 year old vintage whisky from the Bowmore Distillery

 *A unique bottle, a unique whisky*

Auction in London on 26 May 2023

LONDON April 2023 – Operating as leaders of industry in their respective fields, the partnership between Bowmore® Single Malt Whisky and Aston Martin has already proved to be the perfect marriage of innovation and craftsmanship. The iconic and critically acclaimed Bowmore® has long been an object of desire for whisky afficionados, while the cars produced by ultra-luxury British brand Aston Martin are renowned for both their performance and their style, and exclusivity.

This spring, the two brands will once again unite to produce a unique bottle of one of the distillery’s oldest ever whiskies, the precious spirit housed within a ground-breaking Aston Martin design. A single decanter containing a special assemblage of the 52-year-old vintage whisky has been created as a totally unique objet d’art which will never again be repeated. Like the vessel within which it lies, the whisky is also a one-off – a spectacular marriage of some of the oldest Bowmore vintages from the 1960s, an iconic era of Bowmore distilling, created by Ron Welsh, Master Blender.

Bowmore® ARC-52 Mokume Edition will be offered at auction by Sotheby’s in London on 26 May 2023, with an estimate of £140,000-220,000 ($175,000-275,000). The winning bidder will also have an opportunity to enjoy an experience at Bowmore Distillery and on Islay, experiencing the limited-edition Aston Martin DBX Bowmore Edition, the brand’s first luxury SUV. Proceeds from the auction will be donated to a long-term, dedicated fund to support the people of Islay across a range of vital initiatives with the key goal of supporting and futureproof Islay’s distilling industry for tomorrow by investing in today.

The concept for this one of one Edition takes its name from the Japanese metalworking technique ‘Mokume-Gane’ which produces a mixed-metal laminate with distinctive layered patterns. The carbon fibre top of the decanter has been created using a unique process which mirrors the mokume texture and mimics a natural aesthetic, much like wood grain or layered natural rock. The finish achieved can be said to imitate both the black rocks in the bay of Loch Indaal, home to the Bowmore Distillery, and also the inside of the charred cask where special 52-year-old whisky was aged.  A truly multi-dimensional single malt, this masterpiece has been crafted from spectacular marriage of some of the oldest Bowmore vintages from the 1960s, an iconic era of Bowmore distilling.

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Head of Whisky & Spirits, North America and EMEA, said: “Bowmore’s Mokume encapsulates all the hallmarks of a collector’s perfect whisky: a collaborative venture with Aston Martin to create an exceptional vessel containing a unique liquid of exceptional quality, never to be bottled again. Bowmore consistently push boundaries with their design concepts and their whiskies are truly world beating. Partnering with them once again to offer this one-off opportunity to whisky enthusiasts represents an exciting moment for Sotheby’s and the market for rare spirits.”

Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President & Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin, said: “As makers of bespoke and beautiful objects, proportion, shape, and form, along with careful selection of colours and materials, are incredibly important to us at Aston Martin.  And sometimes, nature can be the best of all designers. So, for inspiration of the decanter for this ingenious and special one-off ARC-52 Mokume Edition, we turned to the black rocks in the bay of Loch Indaal, home to the Bowmore Distillery. We imagined walking those picturesque shores, at magic light, and discovering this wonderous treasure, shaped over eons of time by the elements, suddenly appearing at your feet. We think the vessel containing this magnificent whiskey reflects the rarity and distinctiveness of the precious spirit found inside.”

Ron Welsh, Master Blender at Bowmore, said: “The very concept of ARC is itself spectacular in both form and contents, but this one-off creation adds even greater depth, intrigue, and inspiration to the story of ARC.  By creating this unique Mokume edition, we can also fulfil our ambition to ‘give back’ to our homeplace through The Bowmore Legacy, by offering collectors and Bowmore lovers something truly special and desirable.  As one of my last projects for Bowmore, this one is exceptionally close to my heart and is the perfect climax to an incredibly rewarding and exciting career.”

In 2022, Bowmore® and Aston Martin unveiled ARC-52, a striking decanter unlike anything ever seen before. The cutting-edge engineering of Aston Martin and the unfaltering attention to detail and craftsmanship of Bowmore® came together to produce only 100 of these futuristic vessels housing a complex, exceptionally rare 52-year-old single malt.

The idea for the Bowmore® ARC-52 decanter was to chart a journey from past to present – the arc of time – with a futuristic take on a whisky vessel. The design seamlessly merges natural and man-made contours, its form appearing to be almost weightless as it balances on two points. The starting point was grounded in the principles of Aston Martin design, to create proportions that look stable, yet refined and light – an equilibrium that is one of the driving imperatives in car design. The vessel’s design incorporates the latest 3D printing and hand-crafted clay modelling in realising its form. Calling on the exacting principles of achieving balance and optimal form that is intrinsic to Aston Martin’s design DNA, the result is a timelessly beautiful piece of art that is a true coming together of heritage and innovation.

Notes 

In February 2021, Sotheby’s sold a bottle of Black Bowmore Aston Martin DB5 for $118,750. Launched by Bowmore in 2020, of the 27 bottles produced, 25 were released, with the two remaining bottles destined for Bowmore Distillery’s archive. Of all Aston Martin’s models, the DB5 reigns supreme as its most iconic, since its rise to stardom in the 1964 James Bond movie Goldfinger.

Sotheby’s has set records for both Bowmore and Aston Martin in recent years. In December 2021, a bottle of Bowmore Onyx 51 Year Old 1970 – presented in a hand-blown, 1.4l black glass vessel taking its inspiration from the terroir of its island home – sold for £400,000 / $32,340. In 2017 a DB1/1 sold at RM Sotheby’s Californian auction for $22.5 million, making it the most valuable British car ever sold at auction. 

Bowmore ARC-52 Mokume Edition tasting notes:

 CASK TYPES: European oak Sherry seasoned and American oak Hogshead

AGE: 52 Years Old, 1968

ABV: 43.5%

 Tasting notes

ON THE EYE: Deep burnished gold.

BREATHE IN:  Fresh and fruity notes with a nod to the rich sweetness of Creme Brulé, sees the emergence aromas of apricots, green apples, orange zest and guava.  Herbal notes of fresh menthol, eucalyptus and liquorice root provide a contrasting yet balanced character

TASTE: Honey sweet, fruity, and citric characters from flavours of green apple, apricot and tangerine are seamlessly merged with the nutty notes of macadamia and walnuts.  Oaky notes unite with light peat for a mouth warming delight.

SAVOUR: Long and mouth drying with a touch of marine minerality.

ABOUT SOTHEBY’S WINE

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

Sotheby’s Wine’s annual worldwide auction sales of wine and spirits achieved a record total of $158 million in 2022, a 20% increase from 2021. Sotheby’s currently holds the world records for any whisky collection ever sold at auction, any private wine collection ever sold at auction, the most valuable bottle of wine ever sold at auction and the most valuable bottle of spirits ever sold at auction, in addition to the highest ever total for a charity wine auction.

In addition to auction, Sotheby’s Wine launched a retail business in 2010. With a retail store located in Sotheby’s New York headquarters and e-commerce at www.sothebyswine.com, Sotheby’s Wine offers a carefully curated selection of wines from the world’s most prestigious producers and important regions. Expertly assembled by our experienced specialists, the selection is built upon lasting relationships with winemakers from across the globe, with bottles that are ready for immediate consumption, in addition to investment-worthy wines from highly sought-after vintages. A second retail location opened in Sotheby’s Hong Kong galleries in 2014. 

* Estimates do not include buyer’s premium or overhead premium. Prices achieved include the hammer price plus buyer’s premium and overhead premium and are net of any fees paid to the purchaser where the purchaser provided an irrevocable bid.

ABOUT BOWMORE®

For over 240 years, the Bowmore Distillery has been capturing the essence of Islay from the shores of its remote island home. Shaped by centuries of skill and tradition, Bowmore’s single malt harnesses the power of this time in every single drop, defined by the past and savoured in the present.

Time is defining at Bowmore® and we tirelessly harness the power of time to shape our whiskies. Our distillery’s adherence to traditional production methods helps to shape the character of our fruity and smoky single malts. Today, we are amongst one of a few distilleries which still produces its own floor malted barley, hand-turned by a traditional wooden malt shovel and hand drawn machinery.  Water for the whiskies is specially drawn from the Laggan River, with its rich peaty overtones – the same Islay peat that fires the malt-drying kiln.

Bowmore® Distillery’s proximity to the sea is also vital in determining the final character of its spirit and gives a hint of sea air to the character. The legendary Bowmore® No. 1 Vaults is where most of the whiskies spend their long lives resting quietly in the cool, dark, damp cellars below sea level, oblivious to the waves thrashing the vault’s sea-facing wall.

Matured in oak casks, previously used for bourbon, sherry, or claret, over time developing rich and mellow flavours until the expertise of our whisky makers deems them ready for bottling.  It is this combination of peat, barley, sea breeze, water, wood, people, and tradition that makes Bowmore the exceptional single malt it is today.

Time is marked on each and every bottle of Bowmore, proudly and boldly as a marker of where and when each one’s journey began.  This is our story of time. This is Bowmore; the Art of Time since 1779.

www.bowmore.com

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.

©2023 Beam Suntory, Inc. New York.

ABOUT ASTON MARTIN LAGONDA

Aston Martin’s vision is to be the world’s most desirable, ultra-luxury British brand, creating the most exquisitely addictive performance cars.

Founded in 1913 by Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford, Aston Martin is acknowledged as an iconic global brand synonymous with style, luxury, performance, and exclusivity. Aston Martin fuses the latest technology, time honoured craftsmanship and beautiful styling to produce a range of critically acclaimed luxury models including the Vantage, DB11, DBS, DBX and its first hyper car, the Aston Martin Valkyrie.

Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates and exports cars which are sold in 56 countries around the world. Its sports cars are manufactured in Gaydon with its luxury DBX SUV range proudly manufactured in St Athan, Wales.

Lagonda was founded in 1899 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown, and the company is now listed on the London Stock Exchange as Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings plc.

2020 saw Lawrence Stroll become the company’s Executive Chairman, alongside significant new investment, a move that led to Aston Martin’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport with the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One™ Team and commenced new era for the iconic British marque.

Loch Lomond Whiskies Reveals Last Edition in Exclusive Remarkable Stills Series

Loch Lomond 47 Years Old completes this rare series of exceptional single malt whiskies 

Loch Lomond Whiskies has completed its Remarkable Stills series of high-aged single malt whiskies with the release of Loch Lomond 47 Years Old.

The third and final release in this exclusive collection, Loch Lomond 47 Years Old is limited to 200 bottles globally, making it one of the rarest to be released by the distillery. It joins Loch Lomond 45 Years Old and Loch Lomond 46 Years Old to complete the range.

The Remarkable Stills Series is inspired by the distiller’s unique Straight Neck pot stills. These incredible stills give master blender Michael Henry the creative freedom to explore flavour in a more inventive way, carefully shaping the character of the whisky at the point of distillation, revealing distinctive fruit notes at a higher collection strength. As the only distiller in Scotland to use these innovative stills, Loch Lomond Whiskies’ approach to whisky-making is entirely unique, and allows it to craft an extraordinary flavour profile which is unlike anything else.

First distilled in the 1970s, Lomond 47 Years Old  began its journey in refill American Oak casks where it quietly matured on the banks of Loch Lomond for 43 years before finishing in 2^nd fill Oloroso Sherry casks, which adds additional dried, tropical fruit notes to compliment the distillery’s notable style characterised by orchard fruit.

Like its predecessors, Loch Lomond 47 Years Old is an unpeated whisky. On the nose it conveys toffee, orange and green apple with floral notes of rose followed by sultanas, cinnamon and nutmeg. The palette opens with a velvety mouthfeel, hints of caramel and vanilla are met with crisp green apple, melon and kiwi fruit complement floral notes of elderflower. The finish is long, initially sweet flavours of melted brown sugar followed by mouth-watering lime citrus and gently warming cinnamon spice. It is bottled at 44.3% ABV.

Natural in colour, the final product captures the story of Loch Lomond Whiskies’ innovative and imaginative spirit, underpinned by its unique capabilities.

Loch Lomond 47 Years Old is presented in a beautifully hand-crafted oak box with a copper centre inspired by the stills themselves.

Loch Lomond Whiskies Master Blender, Michael Henry said: “It is our unique Straight Neck Stills which set us apart from others. As the only distillery In Scotland to use these stills, our whisky making process is truly innovative and entirely one of a kind.

“Created in tribute to this incredible feat of engineering, our Remarkable Stills Series is as rare as the stills themselves. With only 200 bottles of each release available worldwide, every edition is as special as the one before it.

“Loch Lomond 47 Years Old is the final piece of this collection – a distinctively fruity single malt with an array of complex and complementary notes. It is a single-malt of exceptional character that perfectly captures the imagination and curious spirit of the Loch Lomond Whiskies distillery.”

Loch Lomond 47 Years Old Single Malt has an RRSP of £5750 and is available globally.  Each edition of the Remarkable Stills Series is limited to just 200 bottles making it one of the rarest collections of whiskies ever released by Loch Lomond Whiskies. Every bottle has been individually numbered to showcase its rarity.

Loch Lomond Distillery can trace its roots back to the Littlemill distillery, which was established in 1772 and is the oldest licensed distillery in the world. Its current malt and grain distilleries, in Alexandria, Dunbartonshire, close to the banks of Loch Lomond, were commissioned in 1964 with first distillation in 1966.

For further information visit www.lochlomondwhiskies.com.

Tasting notes

Nose: Toffee, orange and green apple with floral notes of rose then sultans, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Palate: Opens with a velvety mouthfeel, caramel and vanilla with crisp green apple, melon and kiwi fruit with floral notes of elderflower.

Finish: long, initially sweet melted brown sugar then mouth-watering lime citrus and gently warming cinnamon spice. 

About the Loch Lomond Group

• Loch Lomond Group is an independent distiller based in Alexandria and is home to several award-winning brands that are sold in more than 125 countries worldwide.
• Loch Lomond distillery has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814.
• Images and interviews with key staff from the Group are available upon request. lochlomondgroup.com

About Loch Lomond Whiskies

• Loch Lomond Distillery has one of the oldest heritages in the industry. It was founded by American, Duncan Thomas, the owner of the Littlemill distillery which was licensed in 1772. In the 1930s Duncan Thomas was at the forefront of innovation within the Scotch whisky industry and his innovative philosophy is ingrained into everything that is done at Loch Lomond to this day.
• The multi award winning Loch Lomond whiskies range includes the Loch Lomond 12-Year-Old which has been awarded the Platinum Award in 2020, one of only 7 single malts to be awarded this honour at the San Francisco World Spirits Challenge 2020. Other expressions in the range are the single malts Loch Lomond Original; Loch Lomond Classic; Loch Lomond 18-Year-Old; Loch Lomond 50-Year-Old; the Loch Lomond Island’s Collection which includes the Inchmurrin and Inchmoan ranges as well as the deluxe blend Loch Lomond Signature and Loch Lomond Single Grain.
• Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12-Year-Old has been awarded Best Highland Single Malt 12 Years and Under at the 2018 World Whiskies Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco 2020 Awards.
• Loch Lomond Whiskies was recently also awarded the following medals at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition:
• PLATINUM: Loch Lomond 12 Year Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL – Inchmurrin 12 Year Old
• GOLD MEDAL – Inchmoan 12 Year Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL – Loch Lomond 18 Year Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL: Loch Lomond 10 Year Old

THE MACALLAN’S LATEST ADDITION TO FOLIO SERIES:

THE STORY OF THE BOFFINS BAFFLED

The Macallan has revealed the next instalment in the iconic series that celebrates the classic advertising campaigns of the brand – Folio 7.

The seventh release from The Macallan Archival Series highlights a campaign from 1984, telling the quirky story of a curious party of scientists who were invited to the Distillery to taste The Macallan single malt whisky for the first time.

The animations created for the campaign depict the scientists visiting The Macallan Distillery and enjoying a signature dram while discerning why whisky ages best in sherry seasoned casks. They are seen to be sniffing and sipping the amber-gold nectar in awe of their new discovery, before they depart in a flurry to investigate further the magic they have tasted.

First released in 2015, The Archival Series was created to commemorate The Macallan’s legendary print, press and film advertising campaigns of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. By gathering the stories, anecdotes, drawings and photographs that featured as part of the campaigns, the series of individual releases showcases how The Macallan grew from a remote farmstead on the River Spey to become a world-renowned whisky recognised for its incomparable craftsmanship and creativity.

Art Director, David Holmes and Copy Writer, Nick Salaman were tasked to bring the brand’s essence to life in the 1984 advert. On hearing the account of scientists visiting The Macallan Estate, David and Nick, together with illustrator Mary Hogan (Nee Roberts), created an advert with exquisite verve, The Boffins Baffled, now re-imagined once more in Folio 7.

Euan Kennedy, Lead Whisky Maker, The Macallan, said: “Crafted to pay tribute to the magic and curiosity of The Boffins Baffled advert of the 1980s, Folio 7 is a captivating single malt whisky which truly reflects the iconic status of the artwork it celebrates.

“Offering a fruity nose of apple and pear, raisins, milk chocolate and orange peel then give way to vanilla and baked fruits on the palate, leaving a long, creamy finish with warm spices. With its interesting flavours, Folio 7 offers a unique way to experience The Macallan and one of its most unforgettable advertising campaigns from decades past.”

The Macallan Folio 7 features an ABV of 43% and is priced at £350. It is accompanied by a special booklet commemorating the brand’s vintage advertising, presented in a beautiful book-shaped tin. Folio 7 will be available for sale from April 2023 when a ballot opens through The Macallan Online Boutique, as well as from The Macallan Estate Boutique and selected global travel retail Boutiques.

For further information visit www.themacallan.com.

Whisky Makers Notes

Colour: Golden honey

Nose: Dried fruits, baked apple and pear, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, chocolate, orange and oak.

Palate: Raisins, fig, milk chocolate, orange peel, vanilla, baked fruits with light spices.

Finish: Long and creamy with dried fruit and warm spices.

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.

EXPLORE THE WORLD OF THE LAST OF US PART II WITH MOTH & WOLF: THE LATEST SCOTCH WHISKY FROM THE DIGITAL SPIRITS PROJECT

Fans can now get their hands on the limited-edition blended Scotch whisky as pre-orders open from Wednesday October 5^th 2022.

The Digital Spirits Project, created by the innovation arm of Scotch whisky producer Chivas Brothers, has partnered with Naughty Dog to launch Moth & Wolf, a limited-edition blended Scotch whisky inspired by the world of acclaimed PlayStation®4 video game The Last of Us Part II. 

For this partnership, The Digital Spirits Project has created an entirely new expression for a new generation of fans that taps into the global passion of gaming – a blended Scotch whisky matured in American oak barrels, inspired by the world of The Last of Us Part II, both in its taste and packaging. Following months of sampling, the final liquid pays tribute to the game’s iconic locations – Seattle, Washington and Jackson, Wyoming. Creamy vanilla notes represent the safe haven of Jackson, whilst hints of smoke and malt represent the hardened landscape of Seattle.

Moth & Wolf’s label and packaging is brimming with hidden references to The Last of Us that eagle-eyed fans will truly appreciate. The label features an exquisite radial design based on Joel’s watch, further complemented by the moth and wolf symbols which respectively nod to Ellie’s arm tattoo, and Abby’s Seattle-based faction, the Washington Liberation Front. Finally, the whisky’s vintage year of 2013 is a significant date in The Last of Us mythology, marking the beginning of the Cordyceps infection that ravaged the United States.

Moth & Wolf is the second launch by Chivas Brothers as part of its Digital Spirits Project, which seeks to open the Scotch whisky category up to a new generation of whisky drinkers. Through the Digital Spirits Project, Chivas Brothers collaborates with distilleries, content creators and artists in film, TV and gaming in order to create new spirit expressions that are unique and break category cues. Fans can come closer to their passions by getting their hands on authentic and immersive extensions of the collaborators’ digital and fantasy worlds.

Kevin Balmforth, Blending Manager at Chivas Brothers commented:

“As a massive fan of The Last of Us Part II, it was a huge thrill to be a part of this project and have two of my worlds collide – Scotch and gaming. With Moth & Wolf, I was heavily inspired by the game’s setting and atmosphere, and wanted to capture in a bottle the stark contrast between those safe, happier moments in Jackson and the gripping, intense scenes in Seattle. The result is a spectacular whisky that reflects the storyline’s complexity from the ground up, and I can’t wait for my fellow gamers and Scotch fans to get a taste.”

Neil Druckmann, Co-President of Naughty Dog shared:

“We’re excited to partner with Chivas Brothers in bringing a whisky inspired by The Last of Us Part II to life. The sheer dedication from the team to create a unique whisky that takes so much inspiration from the game is a heartfelt tribute to not only the studio but our community. We hope Moth & Wolf finds a special place on your shelf.”

Moth & Wolf is available for pre-order on Wednesday October 5^th 2022, 7am PDT/ 10am EDT at Reserve Bar (www.reservebar.com) with an MSRP of $75USD (70cl).

For more information on the Digital Spirits Project and Moth & Wolf, please visit https://www.digitalspirits.com/

This article is published as a mater of interest and is published well after it’s original release date

BONHAMS ANNOUNCES DIEGO LANZA AS HEAD OF WHISKY, ASIA

Edrington Announces Majority Shareholding in Wyoming Whiskey

Edrington, the ultra-premium spirits producer has announced that it has become the majority shareholder in Wyoming Whiskey.

Building on the 35% stake that Edrington took in the brand in 2018, and the success of the partnership, the Glasgow-headquartered business has increased its shareholding to 80% in a deal with Wyoming Whiskey’s founding shareholders, led by Kate Mead, Brad Mead and David DeFazio.

Wyoming Whiskey was born and bred on the Mead family ranch in Kirby, WY. It will continue to be made in Kirby and this deepening of the relationship sees Edrington welcoming the 37 employees working in Wyoming into the wider Edrington business.

Since joining the Edrington portfolio in 2018, Wyoming Whiskey has been part of the company’s Partnership Brands business unit, which has collaborated with colleagues in the US to build its reputation as a unique ultra-premium+ American Whiskey. During that time, the brand has grown volume and value in the US faster than the ultra-premium American Whiskey category, making it an excellent fit for Edrington’s strategy and values.

Jane Graham, Director of Partnership Brands, said: “With a compelling brand story, natural ultra-premium credentials stemming from its origins, and its inherent scarcity, Wyoming Whiskey is a great fit for Edrington’s ultra-premium strategy. Our majority shareholding gives Edrington the opportunity to get closer than ever to every aspect of Wyoming Whiskey and increase investment behind the brand.”

Founding shareholder Brad Mead said: “Our partnership with Edrington over the past five years has been extraordinarily productive. Edrington’s track record of creating iconic ultra-premium whiskeys and building authentic brands makes the company the perfect partner going forward. We’re excited about the future of Wyoming Whiskey and our continued association with Edrington.”

Suzy Smith, MD of Estate Brands at Edrington said she was delighted to be welcoming Wyoming Whiskey into her portfolio, alongside Highland Park and The Glenrothes Single Malt Scotch Whiskies.

Suzy commented: “After five years of growth and success as part of our Partnership Brands team, we are excited at the potential of Wyoming Whiskey and believe it will contribute to Edrington’s strategic vision and become a prestige American Whiskey brand under our stewardship. Wyoming Whiskey is a unique American Whiskey thanks to its craft and quality, born and bred on the Mead family ranch in Kirby, Wyoming.

Edrington CEO Scott McCroskie said that taking a majority shareholding in Wyoming Whiskey was a logical step for both Edrington and the brand, commenting: “The ultra-premium American Whiskey category is going through a period of rapid growth. This is an exciting opportunity to apply Edrington’s skills in crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands to continue Wyoming Whiskey’s premiumisation journey.”

ENDS

About Wyoming Whiskey

Wyoming Whiskey is ‘Made of Wyoming’. At its distillery in Kirby, WY, we distil the finest corn, wheat, barley, rye and water from the Big Horn Basin to craft a spirit that carries with it the character of the region, and also of the Mead family, who first came to the state as ranchers in 1890.  In the past decade, Wyoming Whiskey has earned recognition for its high-quality bourbon and rye whiskeys, including its Small Batch and Outryder expressions, as well as a range of sought-after limited editions, most notably the 10 Year Anniversary Edition and the National Parks series.

About Edrington

Edrington’s vision is to give more by crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands. The Macallan is our central focus, supported by Highland Park and The Glenrothes in the fast-growing single malt category and Naked Malt in the blended malt category. Our portfolio is completed with Brugal premium rum from the Dominican Republic, The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky, and Wyoming Whiskey and Noble Oak in the American Whiskey category. Edrington also has a strategic partnership with No.3 London Dry Gin.

Edrington is headquartered in Scotland and employs over 3,000 people in its wholly owned and joint venture companies, with over half employed outside the UK. We own our route to market in 16 countries and distribute our brands to more than 100 countries around the world through joint ventures and third-party agreements.

Edrington’s principal shareholder is The Robertson Trust, which has donated £322 million to charitable causes in Scotland since 1961. Our business is underpinned by the Edrington values of giving, respect, integrity and excellence.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Announces Peated Bourbon

As Its Latest Experimental Collection Bottling

The world’s most award-winning distillery releases an innovative Kentucky straight bourbon made with smoked peated malt

FRANKFORT, KY (April 26, 2023) — Buffalo Trace Distillery is thrilled to release Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon, an innovative Kentucky straight bourbon made with smoked peated malt, as the latest innovation from their ongoing Experimental Collection.

As the world’s most award-winning distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery is deeply committed to honoring traditional production techniques while embracing change and pushing the limits of innovation in American whiskey. The Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection, which debuted in 2006 and is celebrating the Peated Bourbon as its 26^th release, is another prime example of their commitment to innovation. Each expression in the Collection offers characteristics and a taste profile uniquely its own caused by experimental changes in the mash bill, types of wood, barrel treatment and more. Since not every experiment is deemed worthy of bottling, these whiskeys are released periodically and sold on a limited basis.

“The Experimental Collection is not about breaking the rules of bourbon; in fact, 95% of our experiments stay within the confines of traditional methods of making whiskey. We conduct this research to better understand the variables that affect our final flavor profiles,” says Harlen Wheatley, Buffalo Trace’s Master Distiller. “We were eager to experiment with peat to see how the grain influenced our mashbill from a recipe perspective. We anticipated it providing the perfect hint of smoke, just enough to compliment the sweet and spicy notes from the rye, and I’m happy to report our hypothesis was correct.”

This latest outcome from the Experimental Collection has proven successful, resulting in a one-of-a-kind Kentucky straight bourbon subbing smoked peated malt as a flavoring grain for traditional barley, which lends just a hint of smoke to the revered rye bourbon mashbill. The experimental distillate aged for nearly ten years in new charred white oak casks, undergoing regular spot checks by Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and his team before bottling at 90 proof. The nose is smoky and nutty, with hints of leather, mahogany and cacao beans; the influence of the peated malt provides a palate of light smoke, brown butter and a sweet toffee finish.

While common in Scotch and other global whisky categories, peated malt is an ingredient rarely found in American whiskey production. Wheatley hypothesized that if the peat character shined through distillation as they anticipated, the smokey flavor would add an extra complexity to Buffalo Trace’s traditional rye bourbon mashbill, resulting in a spirit appealing to connoisseurs that appreciate a traditional – yet completely unique – sipping whiskey.

Buffalo Trace Experimental Peated Bourbon will be rolling out in limited quantities to its distributor network who in turn will ship to select retailers and restaurants across the United States as of May 2023. Due to the limited nature of these releases, all expressions from the Experimental Collection are packaged in 375ml bottles and available in extremely limited quantities. Suggested retail pricing is $46.99; state taxes will vary per market. More information on the Experimental Collection series can be found here.

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 is 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 2^nd 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. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

JURA WHISKY SERVES UP NEW RELEASE – JURA PALE ALE CASK EDITION

UK’s #1 malt brand, Jura, announces new release – available now in UK stores

Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition (40% ABV) joins the ‘Cask Edition Series’

Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition is a collaboration between Jura and local craft brewers

UK number one malt brand[1], Jura, has unveiled a new addition to its ‘Cask Edition Series’, with Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition.

Available in stores across the UK, including Tesco, from now (April), Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition is perfect for beer lovers looking to get into whisky and for whisky fans looking to try something a little different.

During lockdown, Jura, its people and its whisky making faced many challenges, but adversity inspired creativity. With many breweries slowing production as pubs and bars were closing, Jura’s whisky makers, Gregg Glass and Joe Ricketts, saw this time as an opportunity. They collaborated with local craft brewers, respected makers in their own right, to source beer casks, each full of flavour and well suited to maturing Jura’s signature flavour profile.

Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition is the result of a dedicated and ongoing collaborative seasoning programme, led by Jura’s whisky makers, Joe Ricketts and Gregg Glass and is testament to the tiny island community on Jura and the ongoing resourcefulness of the people that live there.

Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition opens with aromas of honeyed cereal, vanilla spice and hints of pineapple. Bright and fruity on the palate, there are notes of sweet citrus and a subtle, tropical hop character. This is rounded off with vanilla and a smooth and creamy finish.

At 40%, this whisky is purposely intended to be one that can be enjoyed as part of sociable occasions, ideal for sipping in a beer garden with friends in the sunshine, matched with a blonde or pale ale beer of your preference.

For those feeling a little more adventurous, a Jura Hopscotch Highball cocktail offers a refreshing long serve and a twist on the classic beer cocktail combinations:

• 35ml Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition whisky, 15ml lemon, 10ml sugar, 50ml grapefruit
• Shake first four and strain over ice into an 8oz highball
• Top with an IPA of your choice
• Garnish with grapefruit wedge and mint sprig

Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition joins three others in the Cask Editions Series – Jura Winter Edition, Jura Red Wine Cask Edition and Jura Rum Cask Finish.

Available in the UK from April from retailers including Tesco, Jura Pale Ale Cask Edition has an RRP of £35 and comes in 70cl format with an accompanying tube in an eye-catching design, making it an ideal option for gifting.

About Jura:

A few miles off the west coast of Scotland you’ll find our island; isolate, sometimes wild, yet always beautiful. Home to roughly 230 islanders, one road, one pub and one whisky distillery. Our beachside distillery was established in 1810 and reborn in 1963 to bring life back to the island and the community. Ever since then, Jura Single Malt Whisky has flourished and our tiny island community has been making whiskies that reflect their unwavering passion and tenacity, so it tastes distinctively better because it matters more to those who make it.

[1] Nielsen. Year Data to 31.12.22

MAC-TALLA SET TO LAUNCH NEW EXPRESSION AT FÈIS ÌLE 2023 

Mac-Talla Limited Edition: Pedro Ximénez Fèis Ìle 2023 

will be unveiled at the festival in May  

April 2023, Aberargie, Scotland – Mac-Talla PX has been announced as the second limited edition release from the Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky brand. Building on their core range of Islay whiskies, each expression further demonstrates the diversity of the iconic island, featuring specially selected cask types and maturation styles, all with exceptional liquid quality.

For this year’s release, the team have selected 26 exceptional casks of Islay Single Malt, with the influence of PX Sherry Casks bringing a rich, fruity sweetness, as well as structure and depth to this smoky Islay malt. It will be launched on Islay during Fèis Ìle—Islay’s iconic festival celebrating the island’s whisky and heritage—as an official festival bottling and available in the UK from 1^stJune.

The bottling will be officially launched as part of a program of events at Fèis Ìle 2023, starting with a ‘Journey of Taste’ Whisky Dinner on 30^thMay at the Machrie Luxury Hotel and Golf Links, and ending with a festival day at the Machrie on 1^stJune with live music, games and a BBQ.

The Mac-Talla range aims to take the drinker on a taste journey across Islay, demonstrating the multiple dimensions of flavour that come from this legendary whisky island. Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers have a long history and connection with Islay which spans 4 generations of whisky brokers, bottlers, blenders and distillers, with the Morrison family owning and running Bowmore Distillery for many years.

Douglas Crawford, Managing Director, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, said: ‘Launching Mac-Talla PX as a limited edition Fèis Ìle bottling on Islay is a very special event for Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers. Our company’s close ties with Islay continue and we are proud to represent the high-quality output of Islay’s distilleries with our Mac-Talla range.’  

Mac-Talla Pedro Ximénez Fèis Ìle 2023 is a complex whisky with the perfect balance of jammy sweetness and peat. A sweet, smoky symphony of burnt toffee, stewed berries and maritime smoke.

Niel Hendriksz, Sales Director, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, said: ‘We are thrilled with the results of PX maturation on this smoky Islay Single Malt. The sweetness of the PX settles the peat, adding structure and depth, resulting in a deliciously complex balance between fruity, jammy notes and smoke.’

Tasting notes: 

Mac-Talla Limited Edition: Pedro Ximénez Fèis Ìle 2023 

RRP: £72

Sumptuous PX Sherry Wood, rich with the flavours of the luxurious grape of Southern Spain, picked at the peak of sweetness & natural acidity. Creating a complex whisky with the perfect balance of jammy sweetness and peat. A sweet, smoky symphony of burnt toffee, stewed berries and maritime smoke.

Colour: deep copper

Nose: maritime smoke, burnt toffee, stewed berries, bonfire, dates, rum and raisin, orange marmalade

54.6% ABV   

Mac-Talla will launch their new limited edition with a series of events taking place during the Islay festival. The‘Journey of Taste’ Whisky Dinner is now sold out, however there are still tickets available for the Mac-Talla Festival Day at the Machrie here.

Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers is solely owned and operated by one of Scotland’s oldest and most prominent whisky families, Jamie and Brian Morrison. There has been over five generations of the Morrison family involved in the whisky business including grocers, brokers, blenders, bottlers and distillers, making them one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families.

Their heritage gives them access to a wide variety of unique and exceptional casks from pedigree distilleries across Scotland. Their family’s values are run through everything they do and they proudly showcase these underneath each of their bottles reiterating their commitment to Patience, Intuition and Integrity.

In every whisky they release, they are committed to continue to impart the knowledge that has been passed down from generations of family whisky makers. Our chairman’s great-grandfather, William Walker, one of the pre-eminent whisky brokers of his era, worked closely with various distilleries on the island, even advocating on behalf of the Islay whisky trade to American businesses on the repeal of US prohibition in 1933.

Walker grew very fond of Islay, where he eventually purchased a home, and played an integral part in developing transport, trade and marketing of the Island’s produce.  His philanthropic nature was deeply appreciated by Islay residents – with the Glasgow Islay Association (of which he was a life member and chairman) noting in 1934 “In the Island itself, he has closely identified himself with every cause worthy of support”.

In 1963 a chance lunchtime encounter at a Glasgow restaurant led to Stanley P Morrison, the son-in-law of William Walker, purchasing of Islay’s oldest distillery — Bowmore (established in 1779) — that evening. Morrison Bowmore Distillers was created and emerged as a globally-recognised brand of quality Single Malt Scotch Whisky, producing a characterful spirit with some legendary bottlings. Morrison Bowmore Distillers was acquired by Suntory in 1994.

To find out more about Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers visit www.morrisondistillers.com or for MacTalla visit www.mactallawhisky.com