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Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2023 Parker’s Heritage Collection® Limited Edition Bottling

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces 2023 Parker’s Heritage Collection® Limited Edition Bottling

17th edition of the annual ultra-premium release is a 10-year-old Cask Strength Rye Whiskey

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (August 23, 2023) – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the 17th edition of the Parker’s Heritage Collection®, featuring a 10-Year-Old Cask Strength Rye Whiskey. The 17th Edition is an allocated product and will be available nationally and internationally in limited quantities at the suggested retail price of $185.00. Like the previous 10 editions a portion of the proceeds will continue to support ALS research and patient care in honor of Parker Beam, Master Distiller Emeritus.

The 17th edition is comprised of 10-year-old Rye Whiskey that was barreled in August, October, or December of 2012. The barrels were aged on the first floors of Rickhouses H1 and H2, the fifth floor of Rickhouse FF, the third and seventh floors of Rickhouse BB, and the second floor of Rickhouse DD. At bottling, the liquid was non-chill filtered to preserve the natural flavors of the aging process. The mashbill for this edition is comprised of Heaven Hill Distillery’s traditional Rye Whiskey Mashbill 51% rye, 35% corn, and 14% malted barley and bottled at cask strength, 128.8 proof.

“Keeping Parker’s legacy alive through this ultra-premium offering is something we’re very dedicated to at Heaven Hill Distillery,” said Susan Wahl, Vice President of American Whiskey at Heaven Hill. “Parker laid the groundwork for this series, and we believe this Cask Strength Rye release is one that would make him proud.”

The late Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam

The late Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam, for whom the acclaimed series is named, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2010. Since 2013, proceeds from sales of the Parker’s Heritage Collection have raised more than $1.2 million dollars toward ALS research and patient care through contributions made by Heaven Hill for each bottle purchased. With this edition, Heaven Hill will again contribute a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold to the ALS Association.

Packaged in the same upscale 750ml bottle as the previous sixteen editions, but with an emerald-colored label, the newest Parker’s Heritage Collection is available in a three-bottle case and will arrive at retail locations starting in mid to late September. With previous releases having won multiple awards from Whisky Advocate, Whisky Magazine, the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the series stands as some of the most critically lauded American Whiskeys in recent memory. Past bottlings have won awards ranging from “Best Special Barrel Finished Bourbon” and “Best North American Whiskey” to “American Whiskey of the Year” and “Best of Show, Brown Spirits.”

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 2 million barrels aging in more than 70 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2023 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year and 2023 World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon from the Icons of Whisky, as well as the 2022 Large Spirits Producer of the Year from the Ascot Awards. Heaven Hill Distillery held the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

Whiskey Production Now Under Way in Belfast For the First Time since 1930s – Irish Whiskey News

Stills blazing after all these years

Whiskey production now under way in Belfast for the first time since prohibition in 1930s

WHISKEY BUSINESS: Titanic Distillers directors Stephen Symington (left) and Peter Lavery (right) joined Head Distiller Damien Rafferty to celebrate as production started at Belfast’s first working whiskey distillery since the days of prohibition in the 1930s. Titanic Distillers, located on the site of the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse in the heart of the city’s Titanic Quarter, was granted its Distillers License to produce spirits last week, and the shiny new copper stills are now up and firing at the distillery as whiskey production got under way in Belfast for the first time in almost 90 years.

FOR the first time in almost 90 years, the production of whiskey is under way again in Belfast, on the site of the historic Thompson Dock and Pumphouse, the birthplace of the Titanic.

Drinks company Titanic Distillers has invested almost £8 million to convert the Pumphouse, a listed building in the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, into the city’s first working whiskey distillery since the days of prohibition in the 1930s.

Having been granted its Distillers License to produce spirits last week, the shiny new copper stills are now up and pouring at the distillery, under the watchful eye of Head Distiller Damien Rafferty.

We opened our doors to tourists in April this year to allow visitors to explore the distillery and the site where Titanic last rested on dry ground,” said Damien, “but to finally begin production on site is an incredible feeling and a huge milestone, not just for us but for the city of Belfast.

A lot of time, hard work and investment has gone into this amazing project to date, but this week marks the culmination of all that – with the distillery and visitor attraction now both fully operational.

In many ways though, the job is only beginning as we start producing a whiskey that the people of Belfast and Northern Ireland can be proud of, and one that will represent us well all over the world ,” he added.

The new distillery will produce single malt premium whiskey made from ingredients that have been carefully selected to produce the best possible flavour.

A unique house blend of malted barley and yeast is used to produce the ‘wash’ which is then distilled in the three Forsyth’s stills, situated on a mezzanine floor overlooking the Pumphouse’s original Gwynne pumping engines which are deep in the building’s pump-well.

Titanic Distillers Director Peter Lavery reflected on what he claims is ‘a momentous occasion’.

“It’s been quite a journey over the past five years but we are thrilled to get our license and to start producing our own spirits on site,” said Peter.

”Whiskey has played an important part in the history of our city but there hasn’t been a working distillery here since the 1930s, so, as a Belfast boy, it really means a lot to me to revive this great distilling tradition – and help bring Belfast back to the forefront of Irish Whiskey production.

“Once, we led the way globally – not just in shipbuilding but across many areas of industry, manufacturing and innovation,” he continued. “With our Titanic Distillers Premium Irish Whiskey, now produced on this most historic of sites, we hope to do so again.”

The Thompson Dry Dock first opened in 1911 to service and accommodate the massive White Star transatlantic liners Olympic and Titanic.

All of the original pump equipment and associated internal historic features in the adjacent Pumphouse have been retained and are available to view as part of the associated visitor tours, while the exterior includes a new food and beverage area.

Stephen Symington, Director of Titanic Distillers, added: “This has been a real labour of love for all concerned over a period of more than five years – from the initial seeds, through the planning process and then the loving restoration of one of our city’s most historic and iconic buildings.

“Our ambition, from the outset, has always been to embrace the history of our distillery’s location to create a unique product and visitor experience, immersed in the spirit of Belfast’s industrial and maritime past and inspired by the people who worked in Belfast’s shipyard more than a century ago.

However, outside of the site’s massive tourism appeal and historic significance, it is important to recognise that, from this moment forward, we are now a working distillery in which we will be producing our own products to build on our success to date and make the most of the growing global demand for Irish Whiskey.”

Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock is within walking distance of Titanic Belfast, the world’s biggest Titanic exhibition centre and Northern Ireland’s number one tourist attraction, clocking up more than 800,000 visitors per annum in the days before Covid-19.

Also resident in the Titanic Quarter is the SS Nomadic tender ship which ferried passengers to the great liner, and HMS Caroline, a decommissioned C-class light cruiser of the Royal Navy that saw combat service in the First World War and served as an administrative centre in the Second World War.

For more information, visit www.titanicdistillers.com.

Ross & Squibb Distillery Master Distiller Ian Stirsman Releases 2023 Rossville Union Bottled in Bond ~ Straight Rye Whiskey News

 

Ross & Squibb Distillery Master Distiller Ian Stirsman

Releases 2023 Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey 

Limited release of hand-selected, six-year-old rye whiskey puts Lawrenceburg, Indiana, distillery’s 175-year rye tradition on full display

ST. LOUIS (August 17, 2023) – Lawrenceburg, Indiana-based Ross & Squibb Distillery announced the newest member of the Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey brand family: Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey. Hand-selected by Ross & Squibb Distillery Master Distiller Ian Stirsman, Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey is set for limited release of 3,000, 6-in cases in time for National Rye Month this month and will be available at select retailers at a suggested price of $49.99 per 700 ml bottle.

Aged six years and offered at 100 proof, Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey features a mash bill consisting of 51% rye and 49% barley malt. This release was distilled in March of 2017.

“I’m proud to continue Ross & Squibb’s tradition of creating high-quality rye whiskey that dates back to 1847. Since that time, we have worked to perfect our craft, giving our rye whiskeys unmatched character,” said Stirsman. “For our Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey we combined our industry leading rye expertise with a new high malt mashbill to create something truly special.  We then let the barrels mature for a minimum of 6 years, resulting in aromas of sweet malt, dark chocolate, raisin and saddle leather with tasting notes highlighted by caramel and mocha with a rich, candied-fruit body, followed by a slight green-apple, malted-chocolate and cinnamon finish.”

“With the growing American whiskey market, compounded by the craft-cocktail revival across America, we are seeing a growing interest and demand for dark, more-complex spirits,” said Shanae Randolph, Marketing Director-Brands for MGP’s Luxco Branded Spirits. “Rossville Union Bottled in Bond Straight Rye Whiskey arrives at just the right time, as it is made the way rye whiskeys are supposed to be and is perfect in cocktails made the way they used to be.”

About Luxco

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from four distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora González Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; and Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Penelope Bourbon, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey, Green Hat Gin and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com.

Introducing Maker’s Mark® Cellar Aged, An Inspired New Take On Older American Whisky – American Whiskey News

Introducing Maker’s Mark® Cellar Aged, An Inspired New Take On Older American Whisky


Matured in a Limestone Whisky Cellar, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged is Aged to Taste, Not Time    

LORETTO, KY (August 16, 2023) – Maker’s Mark® is proud to debut Maker’s Mark® Cellar Aged Bourbon, an annual, global limited-release expression that proves whisky aging is about more than just a number. Featuring a marriage of 11- and 12-year-old bourbon, Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged delivers the distillery’s highly anticipated oldest release, stemming from the question: What if age isn’t just about time, but instead about how you use that time to evolve, develop and mature?

Since its founding in 1953, Maker’s Mark has aged its whisky to taste – not time – to achieve the vision set by its founders: bourbon without the bite that’s always smooth, soft and creamy. Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged stays true to this philosophy, delivering a richer, deeper and more complex older bourbon, free from the harsher tannic effects commonly found in extra-aged American whiskies, as a result of our innovative maturation process that starts in traditional Kentucky warehouses and finishes in the distillery’s one-of-a-kind limestone whisky cellar.

“For more than 65 years, aging our whisky for a decade-plus wasn’t something we did,” said Rob Samuels, 8th generation whisky maker and grandson of the founders at Maker’s Mark. “It’s not that we didn’t believe in it; we simply hadn’t found a way to do it that didn’t compromise on our taste vision – until now. Cellar Aged embodies an older whisky that’s distinctly Maker’s Mark. One rooted in challenging convention, delivering new flavor experiences from the environment that surrounds us, and building on a taste vision that’s been generations in the making.”

To become Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged, barrels of the distillery’s classic distillate first spend approximately six years aging in traditional bourbon warehouses, where they endure the Kentucky climate and its temperature swings season after season until they reach full maturity and can be called “Maker’s Mark.” Barrels are then moved into the distillery’s proprietary whisky cellar for an additional five to six years of aging before being blended to taste and bottled. Built into the natural limestone shelf of the Kentucky hills, the cellar’s consistently cool environment slows down the tannic impact that occurs during maturation, while allowing the bourbon to develop a deeper, darker flavor with hidden depths, but no bitterness.

This innovative and taste-led approach in pursuit of an older Maker’s Mark expression continues the boundary-pushing mindset that has shaped the brand since the beginning. Founders Bill and Margie Samuels challenged category norms when they burned their 170-year-old family recipe, choosing to use red winter wheat instead of rye in their mashbill for a softer, smoother bourbon. This spirit of asking “what if?” was present in the introduction of Maker’s Mark 46, which is crafted using a proprietary wood-stave finishing technique, and in Maker’s Mark Private Selection, which became the industry’s first custom barrel program upon its launch in 2016.

Cellar Aged will be an annual, limited release available in specific markets around the world. The unique maturation approach of Cellar Aged will be consistent every year, but the specific blend of aged bourbon will vary based on which barrels are ready, by taste. The inaugural release of Cellar Aged is a marriage of 12-year-old and 11-year-old whisky – 87% and 13%, respectively – bottled at cask strength (115.7 proof). Cellar Aged will be available for a suggested retail price of USD $150.00 in the United States in September 2023; in London, Munich and select Global Travel Retail accounts in October 2023; and in Tokyo and Singapore in early 2024.

For more information about Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged, please visit www.MakersMark.com.

About Maker’s Mark® Bourbon                     
In 1953, in Loretto, Ky., Bill Samuels, Sr., fulfilled his dream to create a handmade and delicious bourbon. He decided to make his whisky in small batches, using soft red winter wheat to enhance the softness and sweetness. He then rotated each barrel by hand for consistency and, finally, aged each barrel to taste. Bill Samuels, Sr., transformed bourbon from a “commodity” into a premium handmade spirit, and today Maker’s Mark continues to make its bourbon the same way. That time-tested approach seems to still be working just fine 60+ years later, as Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon was awarded a Gold medal at the esteemed International Spirits Challenge in 2022. In recent years, Maker’s Mark has introduced thoughtful, super-premium innovations to its portfolio, including Maker’s Mark 46, Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength and Maker’s Mark Private Selection, the brand’s first-ever custom barrel program. Today, Maker’s Mark is the largest bourbon distillery in the world to achieve B Corp Certification and the first distillery to achieve Regenified certification, a reflection of the brand’s dedication towards building a more inclusive and sustainable economy. For more information, visit www.makersmark.com.

WE MAKE OUR BOURBON CAREFULLY. PLEASE ENJOY IT THAT WAY.
Maker’s Mark® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 45% Alc./Vol. ©2023 Maker’s Mark Distillery, Inc., Loretto, KY. 

I RISE, WE RISE: CHIVAS UNVEILS PORTRAITS OF ICONIC LOCAL FIGURES FROM GLASGOW’S HISTORY ACROSS STRATHCLYDE DISTILLERY – Scotch Whisky News

Three Glasgow-based artists commissioned by Chivas Regal adorn tanks with murals

Blended Scotch whisky Chivas, has partnered with three artists local to Glasgow to create striking murals on the 9.4m tall, rounded tanks at its Strathclyde Distillery, one of oldest grain distilleries in Scotland.

The project, delivered in partnership with Glasgow-based production company artpistol Projects, sees Molly Hankinson, Michael Corr and Rogue One transform the tanks with paintings of iconic local figures, with additional typography woven throughout by artistic signwriter Ellie Mills.

The art initiative was inspired by the close ties parent company, Chivas Brothers has with the Strathclyde Region. The Strathclyde Distillery’s single grain whisky is an essential part of Chivas Regal giving the iconic blend a delicate character that leads to the generously smooth taste synonymous with the brand.

The project is the latest activity under Chivas’ ‘I Rise, We Rise’ platform which demonstrates the brand’s continued commitment to celebrate and elevate the next generation of hustlers who are forging their own paths to success. Each mural pays homage to those who embody this ethos and have uplifted their community along the way. From Margaret Macdonald, an artist said to have helped define the ‘Glasgow Style’ movement of the 1890s-1900s, to Tom McGuire, frontman of 8-piece Glaswegian funk and soul band Tom McGuire & the Brassholes. The final mural celebrates the spirit of human adversity and triumph in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, by paying homage to Mark Coyle’s countless achievements whilst navigating the diagnosis of Perthes disease at an early age which left him wheelchair-bound and with his mobility restricted.

Ali Smith, Founder at artpistol Projects, said:

“Glasgow is known as the place where grit and glamour coexist. It’s the kind of city that gets into your bones, so it comes as no surprise that it teems with creative talent. 

“It’s brilliant to be able to work with a Scottish-born global giant like Chivas who really understands this notion and understands the unique market here. They’re just as passionate about uplifting the Glaswegian community as we are, and we can’t wait to see how the finished pieces turn out.” 

Nick Blacknell, Global Marketing Director at Chivas, added:

“Chivas and Strathclyde share a long and storied history; one that dates all the way back to the 18th century. 

“As a location, it’s close to the hearts of everyone at Chivas and we’re honoured to be able to highlight its importance to us through the creation of these murals. We’re passionate about paying forward the kindness shown to us by the community here, so it felt right that we work with artists who either live nearby or have a clear connection to Glasgow and the Strathclyde region.”

The murals are available to view at Strathclyde Distillery, 40 Moffat St, Glasgow G5 0QB. For more information, please visit Chivas.com/en/stories/strathclyde-mural/ or follow us on Instagram @ChivasRegal.

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

Laphroaig® unveils packaging redesign in line with long-term sustainability goals – Islay Scotch Whisky News

Laphroaig® unveils packaging redesign in line with long-term sustainability goals

The new packaging will reduce CO2 emissions by 30%

Islay (9th August 2023): World-renowned Scotch whisky Laphroaig® today unveiled a refreshed, more sustainable design to its iconic packaging in an effort to reduce the carbon footprint of each bottle. The new packaging will reduce the brand’s carbon emissions by 30%, and supports Beam Suntory’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy and long-term commitments to achieve net zero carbon emissions across its value chain by 2040.

The new packaging design retains the recognisable green bottle with distinctive black and white label but replaces the plastic bar top with a beech wood alternative, as well as switching out the secondary packaging tube for a more recycling-friendly carton. The new packaging will result in a reduction of 1,184.74 tons of greenhouse gases per year – equivalent to growing 30,711 saplings over ten years – a significant contribution to the overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The new carton will also introduce additional quality cues on pack, including embossed Laphroaig lettering on the side as a nod to the brand’s Islay distillery. Further inspiration came from the brand archive, resulting in a refreshed wordmark and the hand-crafted distillery address on the front of pack.

“The Laphroaig distillery has been making whisky for over 200 years, and it is fundamentally important we take steps to reduce our environmental impact and protect the natural resources we rely upon,” said Chris Richardson, VP Global Scotch & Irish Brands, Beam Suntory.  “This new packaging is a good step forward in our global sustainability ambitions, while still maintaining Laphroaig’s true character and exceptionally high quality.”

In addition to its new packaging, Laphroaig will also be renaming ‘Select’ to ‘Oak Select’ to reflect the role of casks in the flavour profile of the whisky. Oak Select will continue to be comprised of spirit taken from five different types of oak cask that are then blended to create the final expression.  There will be no change to the whisky itself.

For additional information about Laphroaig, visit laphroaig.com.

About Laphroaig® Whisky
Laphroaig is the number one selling Islay single malt globally and is synonymous with this famous whisky region. Established in 1815 by the Johnston brothers, Laphroaig has stayed true to its bold flavour and distinctive character for over 200 years. Today, Laphroaig is one of only a handful of distilleries that continues to craft whisky using traditional techniques like floor malting barley and using a “cold smoking” process to create its signature smoky flavour. Laphroaig’s commitment to bold character has earned us a dedicated following of brand fans, the Friends of Laphroaig. Launched in 1994, we are proud to count HM King Charles as our first Friend, and have since grown the program to a truly global community of thousands of whisky lovers representing over 170 countries.

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

The Epicurean Pays Homage to City of Glasgow with Launch of New Ex-Cuvée Oak Finished Edition – Scotch Whisky News

The Epicurean Pays Homage to City of Glasgow with Launch of New Ex-Cuvée Oak Finished Edition

Award-winning Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky brand, The Epicurean, today reveals the latest release dedicated to “his” home City of Glasgow – also home to independently family-owned parent company, Douglas Laing & Co.

This limited-edition expression marries together the finest Single Cask Single Malts from the Lowland region of Scotland, before enduring a lengthy finish in some of the “finest” French ex-cuvée oak casks. Offered at a natural cask strength of 50.4% alcohol, proudly without colouring or chill-filtration and strictly limited to just 5,100 bottles globally, this release is expected to be snapped up quickly.

The Epicurean is said to be “the life and soul of the party and a connoisseur of fine food and drink” so this bottle was designed to embody just that. Presented in a black bottle with gold foil detailing and packaged in a premium gift tube, the black and gold design brings a “true sense of luxury” to this release. Tasting notes are said to reveal “bursts of malted barley, vanilla blossom and lemon zest,” a dram the Douglas Laing team describe as a “something truly special”.

Commenting on this new bottling, Scott Morrison, Brand Manager, said:

“This latest Epicurean Glasgow Edition is one we are particularly proud of. The unique finish is a first for the Douglas Laing team and is a credit to the continuous innovation and quality we strive to achieve. The eclectic array of flavours imparted from the French ex-cuvée oak casks combined with the exceptional packaging make this release one not to be missed!”

The Epicurean Glasgow Limited Edition will be available from specialist Whisky retailers around the world, plus online retailers, from August 2023. It carries a suggested retail price of £55.00 / €64.00.

ABOUT THE EPICUREAN

Twitter:  @DLaingWhisky

Instagram: @theepicureanwhisky

Facebook: /dltheepicurean

Meet The Epicurean – our 1930s Glasgow man, a real cheeky character who was ever the life and soul of the party and a connoisseur of fine food and drink. A master of versatility, this fresh, zesty, grassy marriage of the finest Lowland malts is perfect for cocktail hour or simply for sipping.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

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

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

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

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

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

Ardbeg experiments with Sauternes Casks to Create a New 13 year old Whisky – Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale – Islay Scotch Whisky News

ARDBEG EXPERIMENTS WITH SAUTERNES CASKS TO CREATE A NEW

13 YEAR OLD WHISKY

< Distillery launches The Harpy’s Tale, a smoky-sweet ‘hybrid’, as the first release in its new Anthology Collection of unusual maturation styles >

22 August, UK – Islay distillery and smoky malt, Ardbeg has unveiled the first experimental and rare release in its new Anthology Collection – Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale.

Aged for 13 years in a combination of classic ex-bourbon and sweet Sauternes wine casks, this whisky presents a completely unique Ardbeg, characterised by a tussle between powerful smoke and rich sweetness. In homage to this unusual ‘hybrid’ style, its packaging takes inspiration from the fabled half-human and half-bird Harpy – an elusive, winged beast from ancient mythology.

Ardbeg The Harpy’s Tale is the inaugural whisky in the distillery’s new Anthology Collection: a range of experimental single malts that will present rare and exceptional Ardbegs, each matured in cask types that are completely new to the distillery.

Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation, said, “We have embarked on a bold maturation experiment to fuse Ardbeg’s signature smokiness with more nuanced, sweeter notes for our new release The Harpy’s Tale – resulting in a very unusual and complex breed of Ardbeg. This is a dram that represents a battle between sweet and smoke – one I believe fans are yet to experience in an Ardbeg dram, and one that I’m sure they will be excited to taste for themselves.

“Collectively, the whiskies in the Anthology Collection will form a legendary, perfectly balanced and delicious series of rare and unusual Ardbegs, rich in both lore and taste. We look forward to revealing more in the Collection in the near future.”

Priced at £141 with an ABV of 46%, Ardbeg Anthology: The Harpy’s Tale will be available for purchase on Ardbeg.com, in Ardbeg Embassies, at the Distillery Visitor Centre on Islay and in selected whisky specialists.

RRP: £141 

For exclusive Ardbeg news and releases, fans and whisky lovers can sign up to the Ardbeg Committee by visiting www.ardbeg.com/ardbeg/committee . Membership is free, and all Ardbeg fans are welcome.

www.ardbeg.com

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Facebook: @ardbeg

Tasting notes

SOARING ARDBEG SMOKINESS… WITH SWOOPS OF SAUTERNES 

SWEETNESS

ABV:               46%

Colour Amber

Aroma            Distinctively oily with touches of extra virgin olive oil, sweet briar wood and aromatic herbs, such as coriander and sage, come to the fore. A gentle suggestion of smoked lemon peel appears for a brief moment. A splash of water reveals more oiliness, with linseed oil and an ever so slight waxiness. A burst of perfumed carbolic soap takes flight, leaving behind it a faint whiff of crème brûlée.

Taste               A soft, oily mouthfeel leads the way into a rich, woody sweetness in dark treacle and balsamic. Hints of oak moss break free as smokier notes begin to emerge. Aniseed lozenges, smoked apricots and eucalyptus oil merge in a unique and contrasting patchwork of flavours.

Finish              Finally, a long and lingering aftertaste of sweetness and smoke. A touch of cumin, cardamon and the merest hint of coconut bring this incredible dram to a close.

Ardbeg:

Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky. Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts. Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’. During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future, and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction. Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well-established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following. Today, Ardbeg is one of the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whiskies. 

Ardbeg Committee:

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee. The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”. Today there are more than 180,000 members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 130 countries. Committee Members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings. Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events. The Committee, chaired by Jackie Thomson, is free to join at Ardbeg.com.

Awards:

Ardbeg is one of the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whiskies.  Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions.  Ardbeg has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 2013).  At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’.  The following year, Ardbeg’s expressions took the top three spots in Whisky Advocate magazine’s review of the best single malt Scotch whiskies under US$100.  Meanwhile, both Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Ardbeg Uigeadail have been awarded gold medals at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Ardbeg 10 Years Old also won the Best Single Malt Scotch 10 Year Old at the International Whisky Competition 2019, while the Ardbeg Distillery won the Distillery of the Year 2019. In 2020, the International Whisky Competition awarded Ardbeg Corryvreckan first place for Best Single Malt Scotch, Best Single Malt Scotch (No Age Statement), Best cask Strength (Over 57% ABV), Best Peated Scotch and Best Islay Single Malt. Ardbeg Wee Beastie also earned first place for Best Single Malt Scotch Under 10 Year Old and The Ardbeg Distillery achieved another Distillery of the Year award. In 2021, Dr Bill Lumsden was awarded Master Distiller of the Year for the fifth time, and Ardbeg Uigeadail won World Whisky of the Year in the International Whisky Competition. In 2022, at the International Whisky Competition, Ardbeg was awarded The Distillery of the Year Award, while Ardbeg Ardcore won first place in Best New Scotch Release, Best Peated Single Malt and Best Islay Single Malt. In 2023 to date, Ardbeg has been awarded four Gold and eight silver medals at the International Spirits Competition, Silver in the International Wine & Spirits Competition and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Glenmorangie Company:

The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt.

Responsible Drinking:

Ardbeg and The Glenmorangie Company advocate responsible drinking and suggest that drinkers savour Ardbeg whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Spring 2023 Edition of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Series

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Spring 2023 Edition of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Series

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (August 15, 2023) – Today Heaven Hill Distillery announced the release of the Spring 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at 10 years old. Comprised of barrels produced during the Spring season lasting from January to June of 2013 and bottled in the Spring of 2023, the eleventh national release ushers in the latest edition to the decanter series which adds to the bottled-in-bond legacy.

Bottled in an ornate decanter, the Spring edition is denoted by a green label. As was the case for the past editions, this edition’s tax strip, which has always been a signature of transparency on bottled-in-bond products, will disclose when the liquid was produced and bottled. The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond spring edition will be available in the 750ml size on an allocated basis. It meets the strict requirements of a bottled-in-bond: the product of a single distillery from a single distilling season, aged a minimum of four years, and bottled at 100 proof or 50% alcohol by volume. This edition is available at the suggested retail price of $139.99.

The Spring 2023 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bares a bright burnished copper color, with a nose of brown sugar and molasses in addition to light baking spices with orange peel. The taste is gentle on the palate with notes of butterscotch, subtle oak, and cloves. Its finish is long and warm with tannins and a peppery tingle, followed by a hint of barrel char as the finale.

As a leader of the Bottled-in-Bond category, Heaven Hill is proud to offer a premium product within this special class which showcases the authenticity and quality of the American Whiskey portfolio. Acquired in 1999 by Heaven Hill, the legendary Old Fitzgerald line is well-known for its distilling pedigree and intriguing story behind its namesake, John E. Fitzgerald, whose legacy is also heralded by the Larceny Bourbon brand.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.9 million barrels aging in 63 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. In 2023, Heaven Hill Distillery was named Magazine Icons of Whisky 2023 Global Distiller of the Year. Heaven Hill Distillery also holds the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely.  Drink Wisely.”

Award Winning Loch Lomond Whiskies Unveils Steam & Fire: a Remarkable Single Malt Whisky Finished in Heavily Charred Casks – Scotch Whisky News

Award Winning Loch Lomond Whiskies Unveils Steam & Fire: a Remarkable Single Malt Whisky Finished in Heavily Charred Casks

Steam & Fire pays homage to the extensive capabilities of the Loch Lomond Distillery

Independent distiller, Loch Lomond Whiskies, is adding to its impressive portfolio of whiskies with the launch of Steam & Fire.

A remarkable single malt whisky, Steam & Fire is finished in heavily charred American Oak casks, flamed at Loch Lomond Whiskies’ own traditional cooperage.

It is an entirely new concept for the distiller and has been crafted to showcase its extensive capabilities in distillation and maturation. Steam & Fire takes its inspiration from the extraordinary distillery – a place where alchemy and engineering meet time-honoured craftsmanship to create an unusual whisky destination which is unlike anything else seen in the industry.

Located near the banks of the iconic Loch Lomond, the distillery is home to innovative feats of engineering, including Scotland’s only set of Straight Neck Pot Stills. As the only distiller in Scotland to use these stills, Master Blender Michael Henry can influence flavour at the point of distillation, as well as during maturation.

It is also one only four in Scotland to house its own cooperage. A vibrant place where a team of experienced coopers repair and char barrels, it is the final stage in the whisky making process before casks are laid to rest.

Steam & Fire begins its journey being distilled in a combination of Straight Neck and traditional Swan Neck Pot Stills before maturing in first fill Bourbon barrels and refill American Oak casks. This exceptional single malt is then finished in heavily charred American Oak casks for 10 months.

The heavily charred American Oak barrels have a distinctive rich demerara sugar influence on the whisky, creating a rich flavour profile characterised by notes of orange, pear and melted brown sugar with a dark chocolate, and a soft smoke finish.

Steam and Fire is presented in bold packaging colours of blue and red, to reflect the brand colours and cooperage, with iconography from around the distillery illustrating the casks and unique stills.

Designed to hero Loch Lomond’s extensive capabilities, the striking creative is intended to ignite an emotive response and bring to life the importance of both distillation and maturation in Loch Lomond’s whisky making.

copper piping flowing in a d

The release of Steam & Fire follows Loch Lomond Distillery’s success at the globally renowned San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, winning the title of ‘most awarded distillery’.

Michael Henry, Master Blender at Loch Lomond Whiskies, said: “Steam & Fire is unlike anything we have created at our distillery before.

“Intended to capture our extensive and unique capabilities in whisky making, it is a striking expression which speaks to the heart of what Loch Lomond Whiskies is trying to achieve and our ongoing experimentation with flavour.

“Steam & Fire is a representation of our quest to create whisky outside of the ordinary, bringing together our impressive capabilities in distillation and maturation.”

The launch of Steam & Fire includes a collaboration with renowned open-fire chef Genevieve Taylor, who partnered with the distiller for its Remarkable Makers campaign, which sees Loch Lomond Whiskies partner with like-minded creators and artisan craftspeople to lift the lid on the complex whisky making process.

An accomplished chef, she is the author of 12 cookery books and is fascinated by the science of cooking over fire. Genevieve is inspired by her lifelong love of nature and sustainability, with her recipes specifically created based on the seasonality and locality of ingredients.

She said: “Fire as a method for cooking is a time-honoured craft, much like whisky making, which has survived for generations.

“It is such strong primal element and in many ways it can be unpredictable. Like a master blender, you have to very carefully control all of the variables to curate the final flavour you want.

“Too much wood creates a very distinctive smoky flavour, which can distract from delicate dishes, whereas pure charcoal allows the subtleties of ingredients to come to the fore. The slightest change in this balance has a profound impact on the final recipe.”

Genevieve Taylor’s passion for fire cooking is driven by a curiosity to explore the extraordinary. She continued: “Loch Lomond Whiskies and I share a curious spirit, and an eternal desire to seek out new possibilities in our crafts. The traditional domestic kitchen can be a wonderful place, but it can also be restricting to creativity and exploration.

“Fire cooking opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and allows me to experiment with flavour and techniques which are outside of the ordinary.”

Steam & Fire launches 14 August and retails for £45.

It can be purchased at specialist retailers including Master of Malt, as well as directly from www.lochlomondwhiskies.co.uk

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Toffee, apple, fudge, vanilla, cinnamon.

Palette : Silky mouthfeel, orange, peach, marmalade, coffee, melted brown sugar, roasted marshmallow.

Finish: Medium to long dry finish with dark chocolate and soft smoke.

 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.

In 1814, the original site of the Loch Lomond Distillery was established near Tarbet, towards the north-west end of Loch Lomond; an area which has been at the heart of the whisky industry for centuries. With at least nine distilleries around the loch lost over the years, Loch Lomond Distillers has maintained a proud local tradition into the 21st century.

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.

Earlier this year, Loch Lomond Distillery won “the most awarded distillery” at the globally renowned San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, achieving multiple Double Gold and Gold Awards for its collection of malt whisky brands.

Loch Lomond Whiskies was awarded the following medals:

Double Gold

  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 12 Years Old Inchmurrin
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 12 Years Old Inchmoan
  • Loch Lomond Classic
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Open Special Edition 2023
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Open Course Edition 2023
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Single Grain Coopers Collection
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 8 Years Old Madeira
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 18 Years Old Inchmurrin

Gold

  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 10 Years Old
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 12 Years Old Perfectly Balanced
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 14 Years Old
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Single Grain (Peated)
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 14 Years Old Inchmoan

Silver

  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Original
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies 18 Years Old
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Single Grain (Unpeated)
  • Loch Lomond Whiskies Single Grain Distiller’s Choice

About Genevieve Taylor

Live fire and BBQ expert Genevieve Taylor is the author of 12 cookery books including the bestsellers SEARED, The Ultimate Guide to Barbecuing Meat, FOOLPROOF BBQ, CHARRED, a Complete Guide to Vegetarian BBQ and The Ultimate Wood-fired Oven Cook book.

A proud omnivore, Genevieve is on a constant mission to prove that great BBQ isn’t just about Man vs. Meat, although that said, her latest book, SEARED focuses on the science of cooking good meat over good fire. A biologist by training with a lifelong love of nature; sustainability and seasonality are at the heart of all she cooks. She is currently writing a book on fish and shellfish, naturally all cooked over live fire, and hopes to give people more confidence to source and cook better seafood.

She also runs the Bristol Fire School, a cookery school with the principal aim of helping people light better fires to cook better food.

When she’s not cooking outside, Genevieve can usually be found outside walking her dogs in the woods, growing a few good things to eat on her Bristol allotment and listening to a lot of music a little bit too loud.

She writes regularly on live fire cooking in the national press and a BBC Food Programme regular.


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