Benromach adds to its limited-edition Contrasts range with Air dried and Kiln dried Virgin Oak expressions

Benromach Distillery in Speyside has announced that it has added two new limited-edition whiskies to its popular Contrasts range which aims to surprise and delight drinkers with variations on the signature smoky Benromach style, by maturing spirit in different and interesting ways.

Distilled in 2012 and bottled earlier this year, the new Contrasts Air Dried Oak and Contrasts Kiln Dried Oak whiskies showcase the subtle nuances and flavours generated by different techniques used to dry the wooden staves that make up the casks.

With an ABV of 46%, both whiskies offer drinkers a lingering smoky finish but with differing flavour profiles. The first variant features oak which has been air dried for three years before toasting, providing the whisky sweet vanilla fudge notes followed by fresh peppermint and oak. And its kiln dried counterpart features whisky matured oak that was air dried for two years then put in a kiln to accelerate the drying process. This increases the interaction of spirit and wood, gifting the whisky a sweeter, more malted biscuit nose with lemon barley sugar and mixed tropical fruit flavours.

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, said: “At Benromach, our aim is to always produce whisky by hand that has real, genuine character. Our Contrasts range allows us to experiment and explore new flavours.

“These two new whiskies were created from a deliberate experiment to see if different approaches to drying wood might have an impact on the flavours. They demonstrate how small changes can have a significant effect on taste – and that’s the intriguing nature of the air- and kiln-dried variants.

“We usually use virgin oak casks only with our Contrasts Organic whisky, so it’s been a great chance to see how our traditional lightly peated spirit reacts to this cask type, as well as the air drying versus kiln drying stave preparation.

“It will be exciting to see how whisky drinkers interpret the drams and their differences, and hearing which one they prefer and why.”

For more information on Benromach Distillery or its Contrasts range, please visit: www.benromach.com

Tasting Notes: 

Contrasts Air 

RRP: £59.99 ABV: 46%

Nose: Sweet vanilla fudge aromas with mixed citrus, oak and underlying smoke.

Taste: Cracked black pepper notes are followed by citrus, toasted cereal, fresh garden mint and oak flavours.

Finish: Lingering hints of smoke.

Contrasts Kiln

RRP: £59.99 ABV: 46%

Nose: Aromas of waxy lemon peel, toffee apple, sweet hay and malt biscuit.

Taste: Creamy with tropical pineapple flavours. Barley sugar, fresh lime and ginger. Menthol undertones develop alongside oak.

Finish: Sweet notes of smoke linger on the finish.

About Benromach Distillery 

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life by owners Gordon & MacPhail in 1993 when they set out to revive, reimagine and celebrate the lost style of Speyside single malts through the handmade process employed at the distillery.

Keeping things simple, a handful of distillers rely entirely on their expertise and senses to make the finest handmade whisky; Speyside single malt, with a subtly smoky character.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A five-star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

NEW 30-YEAR-OLD

GLENALLACHIE ANNOUNCED

World-leading Master Distiller Billy Walker releases

Batch 3 of The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Single Malt

Independent Scotch whisky firm The GlenAllachie today announces the next iteration of its oldest and most exclusive core range expression: The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Batch 3.

Spearheaded by long-standing whisky maker Billy Walker, who celebrated reaching a half-century in the industry last year, the leading single malt producer was met with substantial global demand upon the release of previous batches of the vintage release.

Batch 3 (UK RRSP £670) – a limited release of just 2,400 bottles worldwide – is encased in a luxurious royal blue presentation box with suedette cushioning and gold foil detailing.

The third instalment unifies outstanding casks that held antique Speyside single malt dating back to the early 1990s: an assemblage of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso Sherry hogsheads, as well as several American virgin oak casks.

The exceptional quality whisky was extensively monitored before being hand-selected by expert blender Walker from the distillery’s impressive stocks exceeding 50,000 casks across 16 on-site warehouses.

Said to “embody Sherry-matured indulgence”, the rare Scotch whisky’s flavour profile boasts sophisticated waves of rich espresso, chocolate-covered hazelnuts, grated ginger and stewed plums.

Once expertly blended by Walker, the distinctly elegant single malt was bottled at its natural cask strength of 48.9% ABV, without the addition of artificial colouring and unchill filtered.

Reflecting on the super-premium release, Walker comments:

“The GlenAllachie team and I are thrilled to bring the next batch of our oldest core expression to market. Bottlings of this age and quality undeniably demonstrate the reward for patience and perseverance in whisky making.

“Our heather honey-forward distillate stands up well to ageing in rich Sherry wood, and the casks selected for this bottling certainly showcase this incredible union. Expect a refined whisky that exudes notes of rich cocoa, orange zest, honeycomb and cinnamon – a true delight.”

The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Batch 3 will become increasingly available from global specialist retailers over the coming weeks, with a UK RRSP of £670.

ABOUT GLENALLACHIE:

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

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

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

Our other brands are MacNair’s Boutique House of Spirits – encompassing Lum Reek Blended Malt Scotch Whisky and Exploration Rum – and White Heather Blended Scotch Whisky.

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

Facebook – @TheGlenAllachie    |    Twitter – @TheGlenAllachie    |    Instagram – @theglenallachie_

TASTING NOTES

The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Batch 3 – 48.9% ABV

• Colour: Deeply Rich Mahogany.
• Nose: Bursting with roasted almonds, honey and orchard fruits, with hints of worn leather and butterscotch, followed by orange zest and dark chocolate.

• Taste: Lashings of grape must, hazelnut and honeycomb, followed by citrus fruits, toffee brittle and hints of ginger spice, with cinnamon and mocha on the finish.

Limestone Branch Master Distiller Stephen Beam announces 2023 Yellowstone® Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Latest expression offers a delicately balanced blend of 7-year, 13-year and 16-year aged bourbons, finished in Tokaji casks

St. LOUIS (July 10, 2023) – Limestone Branch Distillery Master Distiller Steve Beam announced the 2023 release of Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This latest bourbon – featuring a blend of 7-year, 13-year and 16-year aged bourbons finished in Tokaji casks – was bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), with a limited allocation of 10,000 3-in cases offered nationwide at a suggested retail price of $99.99 per 750 ml bottle starting this August.

As he has done with his limited-edition Yellowstone Bourbon offerings since 2015, Beam hand selected the three aged bourbons, which were then blended and finished in Tokaji casks. Tokaji is a traditional sweet wine from the Tokaji region of Hungary made exclusively from white-wine grapes. Tokaji wines are known as much for their complex, layered flavor profiles as they are for their sweetness.

“With each year’s Yellowstone Limited Edition offering, I seek a finish that I both personally love and believe will make for a flavorful, well-balanced bourbon. This year, I found the perfect finish in the Tokaji casks sourced from northern Hungary,” said Beam. “Consumers can expect aromas of honey, green grapes and freshly baked cinnamon; a body highlighted by dry spice, followed by caramel, dark cherry, citrus and white pepper; and a finish containing notes of dry tobacco, honeysuckle and smoky oak. Fans of Yellowstone Limited Edition offerings will have a new contender for their favorite!”

The 2023 Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey features custom designed bottles with embossing, a high-end natural cork and label containing the 2023 Yellowstone Limited Edition emblem and a 101-proof callout.

About Limestone Branch Distillery

Stephen Beam opened Limestone Branch Distillery in 2011, with the goal of crafting the finest spirits in small batches. Stephen is a seventh-generation distiller with a history of distilling on both sides of his family – Beam and Dant. In 2015, he brought the Yellowstone brand back to the family. The distillery is now home to Yellowstone Select, Yellowstone American Single Malt Whiskey, Yellowstone Limited Edition, Minor Case Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin. For more information on Limestone Branch Distillery and Yellowstone, please visit www.limestonebranch.com, www.yellowstonebourbon.com or https://www.instagram.com/yellowstonebourbon/.

SOTHEBY’S AND THE DISTILLERS’ CHARITY ANNOUNCE FIRST REVEAL OF ULTRA-RARE LOTS TO BE OFFERED IN
THE ‘DISTILLERS ONE OF ONE’ AUCTION

Showcasing the excellence and craftsmanship of Scotland’s most renowned distilleries for the industry’s biggest charity event

LONDON, 12 July 2023 – The Distillers’ Charity and Sotheby’s have revealed the first of the exceptional lots which will go under the hammer at the second The Distillers One of One auction of ultra-rare and unique Scotch whiskies and experiences, taking place on 5^th of October at Hopetoun House near Edinburgh. The proceeds from this remarkable auction – set to remain the largest-ever Charity Auction of Scotch Whisky – will be donated to The Distillers’ Charity, principally to the Youth Action Fund, dedicated to transforming the lives of young people in Scotland.

Nearly 500 disadvantaged young people from across Scotland have already benefited from the £2.4 million raised by The Distillers’ Charity through the inaugural One of One auction in 2021 – to date, more than half of these young people have already gone on to secure employment, apprenticeships, further education, training, or work as volunteers. For this year’s Distillers One of One auction, thirty-five companies from across the Scotch Whisky industry have confirmed their participation with 40 lots; among them thirteen “Founder” Donor brands, many of whom donated in 2021 and will return this year due to the phenomenal success of the first auction.

Each brand will donate a one-off, never-to-be-repeated lot – currently ranging in estimates from £5,000 to upwards of £500,000 – with each of them showcasing the excellence in design, craftsmanship, heritage and innovation in Scotch Whisky.

The auction has wide-ranging appeal for collectors seeking the opportunity to own a genuinely unique masterpiece – whether dedicated whisky connoisseurs or collectors more generally.  Some truly exceptional lots will be available at the auction, such as Bowmore “STAC”: set to be one of the most contended for lots at the event, it has an estimate price of £300,000 – £500,000. At 55 years old, Bowmore STAC is the oldest whisky ever released by the famous Islay distillery, showcasing over half a century of skilled maturation. Distilled in 1962 and filled into a refill American oak hogshead, this rare single malt captures over five decades of expressive character. A truly striking and ground-breaking vessel houses this beautiful, oldest release whisky, and pays homage to the island home where its inspiring sea stacks became the starting point for Bowmore STAC.

The reawakened legendary distillery, Brora, will donate a never to be repeated release in the form of a handcrafted sculpture. This world-first artwork is completed by a Single Malt Scotch Whisky that defies the passing of time. The truly unique auction lot celebrates the artistry and heritage of its craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.

Other lots already creating intrigue among whisky collectors and the industry include The Glenturret “Enduring Spirit”: a set of four bespoke Lalique decanters, filled with four unique whiskies made by renowned Whisky Maker Bob Dalgarno, and representing key moments in The Glenturret’s 260-year-old history. To house these unique whiskies, Lalique has provided four beautiful crystal decanters using archived moulds from the 1980s – which are no longer for sale – each featuring an image depicting a key moment in The Glenturret’s history. The images will be sandblasted onto the crystal bottles. The lot, estimated at £40,000 – £80,000, also includes an invite to visit The Glenturret distillery and to enjoy a sensational gastronomic experience, led by Head Chef Mark Donald at the Michelin-starred Glenturret Lalique Restaurant.

“The Visionary” by The Glen Grant is a rare single malt Scotch whisky aged 68 years, which is amongst one of the oldest whiskies ever to be released by the distillery and indeed one of the oldest in the auction. This unique release is celebrating the legacy of visionary forefather James ‘The Major’ Grant, capturing his passion for exploration, eccentricity, and commitment to innovation and preservation. The Visionary, estimated at £50,000 – £90,000, is presented in a hand-blown battuto-cut magnum decanter inspired by the vessels ‘The Major’ used to house plants and fruits he discovered on his worldly travels. The whisky held inside has been matured in a single Sherry cask filled in 1955, capturing a rich character defined by aromas of soft ripe orchard fruits and flavours of vanilla, toffee, and sweet Sherry.

Highlands Distillery Glenglassaugh has created “Coalescence of the Coast – Aged 55 Years” – this one-of-a-kind bottle has been crafted by Master Blender Rachel Barrie to express the extraordinary character of Glenglassaugh after decades of coastal maturation. Whisky at its peak has been combined from rare individual casks filled in 1963, 1965 and 1967. The coalescence of these casks in this fifty-five-year-old expression creates a multifaceted sensory experience, with both complexity and beautiful balance. This precious whisky is held within a bespoke crystal decanter and carved wooden box, and is adorned with the natural beauty of serpentine marble from the North Sea coast. Each element has been hand finished and is inspired by the evocative coastal environment of Sandend Bay. (Estimate: £15,000 – £24,000).

Bladnoch are offering “The Samhla”. The distillery released The Samhla Collection in 2023 to showcase the connections between generations. Reaching back to those who came before them with The McClelland, heralding the present with The Prior and paving the way to the future with The Sage. All three whiskies were built to both celebrate the treasure chest of rich stocks at Bladnoch and embody the brand’s heritage. The Samhla is the final addition, combining all three whiskies from the collection; this is the only whisky in existence that joins Bladnoch Distillery’s past, present and future together. The Samhla carries an estimate of £28,000 – £42,000.

Pernod Ricard is offering a unique and never-to-be-repeated special reserve which is not commercially available: Royal Salute The Coronation of King Charles III Edition – The Distillers One of One Special Reserve (estimate £14,000 – £24,000). The blend is a combination of over 53 exceptional Scotch whiskies and features some very rare liquid from the Royal Salute 1962 Reserve Cask. Expertly crafted by Royal Salute Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, the coveted expression is housed in a Dartington Crystal decanter, tinted in a deep sapphire blue hue, reminiscent of the precious stones set within the Imperial State Crown. The decanter is presented in a stunning chiselled wood box inspired by the iconic Westminster Abbey, to which a One of One bespoke plaque pleated with 24 carat gold has been added for this lot.

On offer from The Last Drop is a Bespoke Blending Experience with their renowned Master Blender, Colin Scott (estimate £14,000 – £24,000). The winner of the lot will be invited to join Colin and members of The Last Drop team for a unique and personal blending experience at the original seat of the Kings of Scotland, Scone Palace, to create their own, unique, Aged, Blended Scotch Whisky. The Last Drop will draw samples from their inventory of maturing casks of single grains, single malts and aged blends from across Scotland, with ages of between 30 and 50+ years. Once the final blend is agreed, The Last Drop’s designer will create personalised, engraved bottles (compliant with Scotch Whisky labelling regulations) and the owner will receive a case of 12 x 700ml engraved bottles. The experience will be rounded off with dinner at Scone Palace and a tasting of some of the treasures from The Last Drop archive.

Bacardi will offer two lots: the first one is the Aberfeldy 39 Years Old, drawn from cask #1, distilled on 6th December 1983. The Cask is an exquisite and rare edition of their beautifully aged Single Malt; time has crafted a whisky which is bold and fruity. It is rare to find a cask of this age and quality: the venerable oak has imparted silky complexity and a luxurious richness to the maturing whisky (estimate £10,000 – £20,000). Their second lot is a MacDuff 52 Years Old, distilled on 23rd April 1971. This bottle of whisky is the only second known release, direct from the distillery under its own name, ‘MacDuff’. It was distilled on 23rd April 1971 and laid down in a single Hogshead cask; the estimate for this unique lot is £10,000 – £20,000. The venerable liquids have been encased in a beautiful and sophisticated bespoke Crystal Carafe created exclusively for the auction, handmade in France by one of the most prestigious crystal glass makers in the world, La Cristallerie Royale de Saint-Louis.

Old Pulteney is offering “Bow Wave”: this exceptional and rare 45 Years Old single malt spent four decades in hand-selected American oak casks before resting for a further five years of maturation in a single first fill Spanish oak butt. Bow Wave (estimate £20,000 – £30,000) takes its name from the wave that forms at the bow of a ship when it moves through the water, a notion that has inspired the decanter’s unique physical form. Conceptualised and crafted in Scotland, the deep blue bottle itself is made from hand blown glass; the cork is hidden within the glass sculpture and can be accessed only through a bespoke handcrafted anchor key. Silverware surrounds the bottle to represent the crashing ocean waves, all of which is then expertly placed on one of Scotland’s most unique natural resources: rich grey slate from the distillery’s home in Caithness. The winner will also receive a 10ml tasting sample.

Inspired by the Gordon family’s ancestral home and hand-crafted in sycamore, walnut and brass by Linley Design, House of Hazelwood presents “Christmas at Hazelwood” (estimate £14,000 – £24,000) – a unique architectural box in the form of an Advent Calendar. The box contains a 50ml measure of every House of Hazelwood whisky released to date behind 24 numbered advent doors alongside a full bottle (70cl) of a unique 51 year-old sherry cask matured blend to be opened and shared on Christmas Day. The rare whiskies held behind the advent doors include the very first drops of whisky to run off the stills at Girvan distillery; the last existing drops from a number of closed distilleries; and lost styles of whisky that can no longer be produced today. Both the 70cl bottle of whisky at the heart of the box and the architectural box itself are unique pieces that can only be purchased through the One of One auction.

Holyrood, established in Edinburgh in 2019, are using the opportunity to launch their first ever bottle of whisky: “Arrival”, inspired by the distillery’s iconic location in the former Innocent Railway terminal in Edinburgh. Drawing on Edinburgh’s rich brewing heritage, Arrival (estimate: £5,000 – £10,000) puts the already iconic Holyrood hourglass front and centre. The distinctive beer bottle silhouette and brown glass pay tribute to a once-bustling glassworks located at Baileyfield, not too far from the distillery, while the bold typography and unique shape of the label are decidedly forward-looking in their design.

Founded by an award-winning master blender, KANDOBLANC is an inspired celebration of duality; not only in whisky making – but also in art, aesthetics and creative influences. With a team renowned for their unparalleled expertise and ground-breaking innovations in the whisky industry, KANDOBLANC has handpicked the esteemed Distillers One of One auction to unveil its exceptional offering on a global stage. This momentous occasion will feature a one-of-a-kind objet d’art, exquisitely crafted by visionary talents and outstanding in its beauty and exclusivity.

Founder Donor William Grant & Sons will be offering a unique Ailsa Bay Cask for the auction, with further information to be revealed soon.

With fewer than four months to go until the second auction, Beanie Geraedts-Espey, Managing Director of Distillers Ventures, said “The remarkable results of the inaugural One of One auction were a testament to what can be achieved when an industry truly comes together both to celebrate and forge positive impact. The success of the 2021 auction, together with the enduring commitment of so many incredible donor brands, as well as sponsors, is driving us to create an even more memorable event this coming October. Judging by the exceptional quality and creativity of our donors’ lots, we hope to once again achieve record-breaking hammer prices in support of our charity.”

Jonny Fowle, Global Head of Spirits at Sotheby’s, added “The second Distillers One of One auction is already generating a buzz among collectors who have been eagerly awaiting news of this year’s lots, so it is exciting to finally unveil a selection of highlights. Featuring the oldest whisky ever released from Bowmore, Glenglassaugh, Old Pulteney, MacDuff and Kilchoman, the highly anticipated event will further cement the significance of what has established itself as the biggest charity spirits auction of its kind. This is clearly an occasion for which the creativity and generosity of the Scotch whisky industry comes to the fore.”

Besides the incredible support that the Distillers One of One auction is receiving from the participating Donor brands and their generous lot donations, several sponsors of the 2021 auction have once again confirmed their auction support for 2023. In particular, Simpson’s Malt, makers of high-quality malt; McLaren Packaging, specialist supplier of paper-based packaging to the Scotch Whisky industry; and Glencairn Crystal, inventors of the world’s favourite Glencairn Glass have all returned to sponsor the auction, this time as Programme Sponsors, supporting the Distillers One of One and Youth Action Fund over a two-year cycle of Auction planning, execution and subsequent grant-making. In addition, Beamish International, a global private client business specialising in rare whisky, has committed to becoming the Headline Programme Sponsor for 2023/2024. Bentley Motors Edinburgh and Forsyths will both be Auction Event Sponsors for the 2023 Auction.

About the Distillers’ Charity 

The Distillers’ Charity was founded in 1955 as the philanthropic arm of the Worshipful Company of Distillers, a City of London Livery company. In addition to the Youth Action Fund, its charitable work has focused on two other important areas: Vocational Training and Education to develop the next generation of talent in the spirits trade, and City and Livery Giving that also works towards the charity’s mission of transforming the lives of young people.

About the Distillers One of One Auction 

The inaugural Distillers One of One Auction was held in December 2021, organised by The Worshipful Company of Distillers. The vision for the Distillers One of One Auction Series, developed in partnership with leading auction house Sotheby’s, was to create the pre-eminent charitable auction for Scotch Whisky with two clear aims: to make a strong social impact in Scotland transforming lives of disadvantaged young people, and to showcase excellence in craftsmanship, and the rarity value of Scotch Whisky to a global audience. A biennial series, the next One of One Auction will be held in October 2023 at Hopetoun House on the outskirts of Edinburgh and is expected to attract whisky buyers and luxury goods collectors from around the world.

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. 

Distillers One of One 2023: Participating brands (in alphabetical order)

Founder Donors:

1. Bacardi – Aberfeldy 39 Years Old
2. Bacardi – MacDuff 52 Years Old
3. Beam Suntory – Bowmore STAC
4. Bladnoch – The Samhla
5. Brown-Forman – Glenglassaugh Coaslescence of the Coast Aged 55 Years
6. Campari Group – The Glen Grant – The Visionary
7. Diageo – Brora
8. Glenturret – The Glenturret – Enduring Spirit
9. Holyrood – Arrival
10. International Beverage Holdings – Old Pulteney Bow Wave
11. KANDOBLANC
12. Pernod Ricard – Royal Salute – Royal Salute The Coronation of King Charles III Edition – Distillers One of One Special Reserve
13. Sazerac – The Last Drop Distillers – Bespoke Blending Experience with Master Blender Colin Scott
14. William Grant & Sons – House of Hazelwood – Hazelwood House
15. William Grant & Sons – Ailsa Bay

Member Donors:

1. Arran Whisky
2. Artisanal Spirits – The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
3. Gordon & Macphail – Lost Distilleries
4. Kilchoman
5. Loch Lomond – Littlemill
6. Loch Lomond – GlenScotia
7. LVMH – Glenmorangie
8. Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers
9. R&B Distillers – Isle of Raasay
10. Rémy Cointreau – Bruichladdich
11. Takara – Tomatin
12. The Borders Distillery – Borders

Associate Donors:

1. Adelphi Distillery – Ardnamurchan
2. Arkibie
3. Atom Brands – That Boutique-y Whisky Company
4. Berry Brothers & Rudd – Glenrothes
5. Coachbuilt
6. Duncan Taylor
7. Glen Moray
8. Greenwood Distillers – Ardross
9. Ian Macleod Distillers – Rosebank
10. J&G Grant – Glenfarclas
11. Lindores Abbey Distillery
12. Whyte & Mackay – Invergordon
13. Whyte & Mackay – Jura

Multi-award-winning Highland distillery, Tomatin, crowned best whisky in the world 

Tomatin’s 36 Year Old single malt has been named ‘Best in Show’ in the whisky category at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2023, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world.

The SFWSC is a prestigious international contest, where leading figures from the industry come together to judge spirits from the finest producers in the world.

‘Best in Show’ is the highest honour of the event, where one whisky is crowned out of thousands of entries after winning in its category which Tomatin’s 36 Year Old was awarded for ‘Best Single Malt Scotch’.

Judges praised the distillery for its continued dedication to its craft and superior skills in cask maturation with esteemed whisky journalist and SFWSC judge, Joseph V Micallef, saying “without a doubt, this is one of the world’s greatest Scotch whiskies”.

It is the second time the 36 Year Old has been awarded the accolade after previously being recognised in 2017.

Released in 2015, with 1,200 bottles released globally every year, Tomatin’s 36 Year Old is a whisky of incredible complexity. Matured in a combination of ex-Bourbon and ex-Oloroso sherry casks, this smooth and creamy dram offers a mixture of aromas including baked fruits and leather balsam, toffee, walnut, and crystallised ginger.

Bottled at 45.1% ABV cask strength, natural colour and non-chill filtered, it is priced at £1,200 and comes displayed in a premium wooden box with a numbered certificate for each custodian.

Tomatin’s recognition in the industry and amongst consumers continues to grow globally. In 2022, the distillery was awarded ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition. Last month, Tomatin revealed it has received 10 accolades at the initial SFWSC judging, with the 36 Year Old also taking home a Double Gold award.

Graham Eunson, Master Distiller at Tomatin Distillery, said:

“This is a truly fantastic milestone for the Tomatin Distillery, especially for everyone in our team who works so hard to produce, promote and honour the finest Highland Scotch, day in and day out.

“Our 36 Year Old single malt is a really special dram. A marriage of casks, a refill hogshead and an Oloroso sherry butt, gives us a remarkably smooth yet complex whisky that keeps you intrigued with lively top notes of peach, apricot, honeydew melon and mango which bring vibrancy to this rich and warming expression.

“We know how many eyes of the world are on the results from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition every year, so it’s a real pleasure to be honoured with this recognition which we hope encourages many more people to explore the magic of Tomatin and the Scottish Highlands which we are lucky to call home.” 

Stephen Bremner, Managing Director at Tomatin Distillery, added:

“This is a phenomenal win for us and a real testament to the hard work of every member of the Tomatin team involved in the production of our 36 Year Old. To be recognised by such a prestigious organisation at this international level and out of so many other fantastic brands is a huge accomplishment for the business.”

Tomatin’s origins date back to the 15th century, with the first formal distillery established in 1897. Passing through generations of craftspeople working at Tomatin, many for their entire lives, the distillery is embedded in the community. Today Tomatin is renowned for its collection of smooth and elegant whiskies.

Available globally, the Tomatin 36 Year Old can be purchased from https://tomatin.com/our-whisky/prestige/36-year-old/.

Tasting notes:

• Nose: Lively top notes of peach, apricot, honeydew melon and mango bring a vibrancy to this rich and warming expression. Layers of sherry-driven aromas like demerara sugar, polished wood and treacle toffee add a huge amount of depth with enticing spices of nutmeg and cinnamon. A perfect synergy of well-aged bourbon barrels and Oloroso sherry butts.
• Palate: Initially very soft with fruity tones of guava, apple and apricot developing into increasingly intense waves of dried fruit, dark chocolate, gingerbread, and salted caramel. The depth offered on the nose continues to deliver notes of spice.
• Finish: Long, alternating between sweet tropical fruits and drying winter spices.

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

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

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

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

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

THE HOUSE OF SUNTORY DOJO PROGRAMME RETURNS, TOURING THE UK FOR THE FIRST TIME

Built with the hospitality community in mind, the DOJO programme will immerse 100 bartenders in the art of Japanese bartending through culturally immersive and educational sessions in two new cities this year. 

London, 10th July 2023 – Following three successful years, The House of Suntory has announced its prestigious DOJO advocacy programme will this year expand to engage 100 bartenders in three leading hospitality hubs in the UK. In the brand’s centenary year, the programme will host masterclasses in Manchester and Edinburgh, in addition to London, as part of its mission to deepen bartenders’ understanding of the philosophies behind the art of Japanese bartending.

The expansion of the programme this year will, for the first time, enable bartenders in three of the UK’s leading hospitality hubs to learn about Japanese bartending and gain insights directly from Japanese Craft Masters and hospitality industry leaders, which can be applied to strengthen any hospitality career.

Devised as an immersive experience for bartenders, this year’s programme will be led by The House of Suntory UK Brand Ambassador Raffaele Di Monaco alongside authentic Japanese Masters of Craft and will consist of two ‘tours’ in July and September. Each tour will feature two “Monozukuri Masterclasses”, with 25 bartenders in each city – Monozukuri being one of the three pillars of The House of Suntory, referring to the traditional Japanese principles of craftsmanship. To help deepen understanding of the brand’s portfolio, each masterclass tour will focus on two of its four core brands; the first tour on Roku gin and Haku vodka, followed by Toki and Hibiki whiskies in the second.

Inspired by the concept of Kaizen – “continual improvement” – the programme includes a ‘Kaizen Challenge’ to encourage participants to hone their newfound skills by applying them to a classic cocktail and rewards best practice with the chance to win a place at the DOJO Finale in November. This final stage will see the four bartenders from each city present their Kaizen Classic to judges James Bowker, The House of Suntory’s Global Advocacy Manager, and famed Bar Master Hidetsugu Ueno of Bar High Five in Tokyo, for the chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan in Spring 2024.

With community a key part of the DOJO programme, in October, 12 DOJO Finalists will also be invited to two community events to immerse them in Japanese culture with sessions on Japanese knife sharpening and a Kanpai Sake Brewery tour. As part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to fostering the bartending community, there will also be several Japanese inspired DOJO mini events in London locations throughout the year.

Raffaele di Monaco, UK Brand Ambassador for the House of Suntory, said: “The Japanese approach to bartending is unlike anything else. From the laser focus on detail, to embracing omotenashi (to wholeheartedly look after guests) and monozukuri (craftsmanship and striving towards perfection), the collective approach elevates bartending to an artform. Through the DOJO programme, we hope to bring these principles to the fore, and help bartenders enhance their repertoires as well as being able to offer unparalleled drink and hospitality experiences for their customers.”

THE DOJO PROGRAMME – MONOZUKURI MASTERCLASS TOURS

Each DOJO Masterclass is carefully curated around four Japanese crafts. From sushi making and Ikebana, to Dashi blending and Chadō – also known as Japanese Tea Ceremony – the sessions will be hosted by a specialist Japanese Master, providing bartenders with a rich understanding of Japanese artistry first hand.

 Tour 1 – July 2023

• Sushi and Seasoning – A sushi masterclass centred around the Japanese art of balance and seasoning, including a Haku vodka tasting.
• Ikebana and Aesthetics – A masterclass focused on the centuries-old Japanese art of arranging flowers – Ikebana. During the session, bartenders will learn how to apply the delicate skill of Ikebana to cocktail garnishing. The session also includes a Roku tasting.

Tour 2 – September 2023

• Dashi & Blending – Highlighting the art of blending flavours and aromas, this session will include a tasting of the blending components of Toki.
• Chadō and Hospitality – A masterclass in Japanese hospitality, explored via the traditional Tea Ceremony, including a tasting of Hibiki.

For more information on DOJO, please visit www.suntorydojo.com

Key dates:

Tour 1:

• 10th & 11th July – London
• 18th July – Manchester
• 20th July – Edinburgh

Tour 2:

• 11th & 12th September – London
• 19th September – Manchester
• 21st September – Edinburgh

DOJO Finale

November 2023

The three pillars of House of Suntory include:

• WA – being in harmony with Japanese nature
• Omotenashi – the enjoyed experiences of Japanese Hospitality and culture
• Monozukuri – elevated Japanese Craftsmanship; and this programme will educate bartenders on all of these principles

About The House of Suntory

Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as a pioneer of Japanese Whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son and Suntory’s second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu Distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014). Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku Japanese Gin and Haku Japanese Vodka. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at the House of Suntory, Roku Gin and Haku Vodka represent the nature and spirit of Japan. This year, Suntory Whisky celebrates one hundred years of whisky innovation—a major milestone not only for the brand’s history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, the House of Suntory will be rolling out its centennial campaign throughout 2023.

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 inform consumers as they make choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.

About Edrington UK

Edrington UK is the UK’s number one whisky supplier, part of the global Edrington family and responsible for the UK sales, marketing, and distribution of a portfolio of premium brands including The Macallan, Highland Park, The Famous Grouse, Naked Malt and Brugal. As a valued distribution partner of Beam Suntory, Edrington UK also represents many of its brands in the UK marketplace, such as Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Bowmore, Laphroaig, Courvoisier, and The House of Suntory range of Japanese craft spirits. Edrington UK also handles sales and distribution for a portfolio of liqueurs and specialities including 1826 Cocktails, Sourz, and AfterShock.

Hard Truth Distilling Co. Completes New Rackhouse

Increased Demand and Upcoming New Products Drives Need for More Space

Nashville, IN – Hard Truth Distilling Co., one of the nation’s most visited destination distilleries, today announced the completion of its second rackhouse. With barrels already being rolled in, Rackhouse #2 is twice the size of Hard Truth’s first rackhouse, tripling storage capacity from 4,000 to 12,000 barrels for its critically acclaimed sweet mash whiskies. Bryan Smith, Hard Truth Master Distiller, said the new rackhouse and process upgrades have enabled the distillery to increase overall whiskey production by 800 percent and it is now operating 24/7. With sales increasing 400% this year the extra production is critical to meeting future demand for Hard Truth’s award-winning whiskies.

In addition to ongoing sales gains in existing markets, Hard Truth continues to add significant new markets including most recently New York in partnership with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of New York.

“Introducing our line of spirits into the New York market has been a goal since we starting doing business,” said Smith. “Our ever-expanding product line of sweet mash rye whiskies, and wide range of premium craft spirits has seen success in other markets including Florida, Texas and Illinois.  We are confident they will experience the same success with consumers and retailers in New York and all major markets including California, which is next on our market expansion list.”

Hard Truth sweet mash rye whiskeys have seen their fair share of awards and praise. Hard Truth’s first batch of Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey was named in the top 50 of Fred Minnick’s Top 100 American Whiskeys of 2021, and since then has taken home a Gold Medal in USA Spirits awards, Double Platinum Medal in the Ascots and earned two 93 ratings in other tasting competitions.

Recently, Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Chocolate Malt Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey and Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Caramel Malt Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey received the prestigious Double Platinum rating at the 2023 Ascot Awards. In addition, the third spirit in the line of Hard Truth’s Master Distiller Reserve’s collection, Hard Truth Master Distiller’s Reserve Malted Rye Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey won the prestigious 2023 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits competition.

“We have no intention to rest on our laurels, We will continue to drive this sweet mash revolution forward,” said Smith. “You will see new products coming out this fall that will extend our line of award-winning sweet mash rye whiskey.”

Growth Right From The Start

Hard Truth Distilling Co. began distilling in 2015 by developing and consumer testing its award-winning products on a 120-gallon pilot system while our destination distillery was being built. Since then, sales have grown steadily year over year, including a 110 percent increase 2021 to 2022.

The distillery’s portfolio of award-winning spirits can now be enjoyed in 21 states and in the Bahamas, and according to Jeff McCabe, Hard Truth Co-Founder, market expansion is a priority.

“We expect to see our brands in 24 states by the end of 2023,” said McCabe. Hard Truth’s portfolio of award-winning premium spirits in addition to its line of Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskies includes Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum, Toasted Coconut Rum Cream, Maple Bourbon Cream and Cinnamon Vodka, which has become the best-selling cinnamon vodka in the U.S.

Hard Truth: A Leading Midwest Tourist Destination

Many distilleries offer tours and tastings, but few sit among 325, explorable, wooded acres in some of the most beautiful countryside in the Midwest. Visitors to Hard Truth can tour the distillery, dine at its 250-seat restaurant, and hop on an ATV with a tour guide to explore the property while learning about the history of distilling.

Hard Truth hosts festivals, health and wellness adventures, mixology classes, and more. The forest-framed Hard Truth on the Rocks terrace and stage area offers live music and special events, a unique terrace food menu, and drinks.

“A key component of our mission at Hard Truth is offering visitors an opportunity to experience this place and our brands, and by doing so, become part of the Hard Truth family,” said McCabe. “We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished in just eight years, and there’s so much more to come.”

About Hard Truth Distilling Co.

Headquartered in Nashville, Indiana, Hard Truth Distilling Co. produces more than 20 premium spirits, including critically acclaimed Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey and top-selling Hard Truth Cinnamon Vodka, Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum, and Hard Truth Toasted Coconut Rum Cream.

New CEO takes the reins at Glenmorangie & Ardbeg amid record sales

 — Caspar MacRae comes to the helm, as Thomas Moradpour assumes Dom Pérignon Presidency —

After five record-breaking years at the helm of The Glenmorangie Company, President and CEO Thomas Moradpour is moving on to take the lead at prestigious champagne brand Dom Pérignon, also part of LVMH. He will be succeeded in post by Caspar MacRae, currently Global Marketing and Business Development Director, from July 3.

The Company, which owns Glenmorangie Highland single malt Scotch whisky and Ardbeg Islay single malt Scotch whisky, has thrived under Thomas’s leadership. Since he joined the Company in 2018, it has more than doubled profits, delivering unprecedented year-on-year growth each year. Despite global instability, Thomas has created a stronger, more sustainable business, championing innovation and successfully executing ambitious expansion plans. Ably supported by Caspar and the executive team he has:

• Launched Glenmorangie’s ground-breaking innovation Distillery;
• Overseen the expansion of Ardbeg Distillery;
• Doubled the Company’s bottling capacity;
• Transformed Glenmorangie’s boutique hotel and purchased a hotel near Ardbeg;
• Established the Company’s prestige strategy, including the record-breaking £16million sale of Ardbeg Cask No. 3
• Set the Company on course to become one of the best places to work in the UK, with a raft of life-friendly policies and a culture which fosters creativity and innovation.

Caspar, who has worked hand-in-hand with Thomas, is committed to continuing the Company’s upward trajectory, in line with its long-term vision for growth. With 20 years’ industry experience, he has already played an instrumental role in the Company’s success. As head of its marketing and commercial teams since 2018, Caspar has overseen the transformation of the Glenmorangie and Ardbeg brands, and the development of award-winning campaigns for both whiskies. And he has super-charged its e-commerce business which has grown seven-fold since 2020.

Jonas Tåhlin, President and CEO of the Spirits Division at Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits arm of LVMH, said: “Congratulations to Thomas for his achievements at Glenmorangie and Ardbeg. Driving innovation and excellence, he has enabled the brands to flourish and grow, more than doubling their profits. I wish him success as he moves on within the LVMH family to Dom Pérignon. Caspar has already demonstrated his exceptional talent and leadership skills, and I have full confidence that the business will continue to thrive with him at the helm.”

Thomas said: “I’m very proud that since I joined The Company we have made it a more sustainable business, a greater place to work and the business is in even better shape. With Caspar’s leadership abilities and vision, I’m sure Glenmorangie and Ardbeg will raise the bar ever higher in the next chapter.”

Caspar said: “I have always dreamed of leading brands as renowned as Glenmorangie and Ardbeg, so I am thrilled to take the baton from Thomas. I look forward to working with the teams here in Scotland and around the world as we continue on our mission to ensure the success of our brands, our workforce and the communities around our Distilleries, long into the future.”

About Thomas Moradpour’s achievements:

• Opened Glenmorangie’s ground-breaking innovation Distillery, the Lighthouse, in 2021. This  multi-million-pound  facility promises to bring wondrous new tastes to single malt;
• Oversaw the expansion of Ardbeg. Including a new stillhouse, the expansion doubled the Distillery’s capacity when it opened in 2021;
• Built a new bottling line at the Company’s plant near Edinburgh. Operational from 2023, this has doubed the Company’s bottling capacity;
• Transformed Glenmorangie’s boutique hotel Glenmorangie House, in line with its wondrous brand positioning in 2021. The following year, the Company purchased a well-known hotel on Islay, giving the brand the opportunity to create a world-class whisky and hospitality experience;
• Established the Company’s prestige business, which offers rare limited editions to collectors, as well giving private buyers the chance to purchase single and rare casks. The private cask programme led to the record-breaking sale of Ardbeg Cask No. 3, which made headlines around the world when it sold to a private buyer for £16million.
• Set the Company on course to become one of the best places to work in the UK, with a raft of life-friendly policies and a culture which fosters creativity and innovation.

 About Caspar MacRae’s achievements:

• Championed the Company’s e-commerce business, which has seen a seven fold increase in profitabilty since 2020, and launched a new e-commerce experience and CRM programme in 2022.
• Led the transformation of the Glenmorangie and Ardbeg brands, and developed award-winning brand platforms for both whiskies. Glenmorangie has delighted audiences with its technicolour campaign featuring photography from Miles Aldridge. Meanwhile, Ardbeg has leaned into its cult status and idiosyncratic personality with brand campaign ‘Planet Ardbeg’, developed in partnership with renowned graphic novel creators.Leading the marketing and commercial divisions of the business resulting in a more than doubling of profits since 2018.

About 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.  

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to dream up delicious single malt whiskies. They’ve been honing their craft for more than 175 years. They create a delicate and fruity spirit in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow for more taste and aroma. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this crackerjack crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

Glenmorangie celebrates the joy of delicious single malt in every part of its universe, from its boutique hotel Glenmorangie House to its colourful brand campaign, shot by famed photographer Miles Aldridge. With its tagline “It’s kind of delicious and wonderful”, Glenmorangie invites whisky lovers old and new to see themselves in Glenmorangie’s world.

About 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.

Responsible Drinking:

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

Three New Tour Areas Revealed at

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Susan Morrison, Chief Executive of The Scotch Whisky Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience has revealed three new immersive tour areas which will open to the public in mid-July.

Visitors will be transported to a peaceful Highland glen, leaving the bustle of Edinburgh’s vibrant Royal Mile behind them. Beautiful immersive technology creates a tranquil introduction to the elements and ingredients that shape the spirit. This is “Origins”. Famous for our “four seasons in one day” visitors can discover the secret of how the landscape enriches the soft Scottish water and undulating barley fields turn from green to gold before the grains are harvested.

From the Origins we move to “The Art of Whisky Making”, where visitors will discover how single malt Scotch whisky is made.  Mixing an enchanting kinetic sculpture with fascinating media, the distilling process can be seen from inside and out. The process is visualised in a way never seen before, embodying the art of whisky making.

The pure new spirit moves to “Maturation”.  Seated inside the cask visitors will witness the charring, firing and filling, allowing for a unique and magical view of how the cask changes the character of the whisky as the years tick past.

The three new immersive areas form part of the full tour experience. Setting the scene for how single malt Scotch is produced, before discovering the whisky producing regions, the art of blending, and tasting a dram in one of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collections.

Susan Morrison, Chief Executive of The Scotch Whisky Experience, said “We are so excited to share the new experience with our visitors. This is the culmination of three year’s hard work by our passionate team. The immersive storytelling and brilliant technology within the tour will offer visitors a real insight into Scotch whisky.”

Following three years of careful planning, the new experiences have replaced the “barrel ride”. The Scotch Whisky Experience has combined technologies in an exciting new way, not yet seen at a visitor attraction in the UK.

The story of whisky production has been brought to life. It will entertain and enchant new generations of whisky lovers discovering whisky for the first time.

The July launch of the new tour at The Scotch Whisky Experience will ensure even more visitors learn about the extraordinary world of Scotland’s whisky heritage.

“The maturation process is highly complex but this portrays it perfectly.”

Richard Paterson, Master Blender, Whyte and Mackay 

“There is nowhere you can see how whisky matures like this.”

Sandy Hyslop, Master Blender, Pernod Ricard 

“This newest addition to Edinburgh’s tourist attractions continues our mission of showcasing Scotland’s national drink in a very contemporary, modern way.”

Malcolm Leask, Managing Director, International Beverage and Chairman of The Scotch Whisky Experience

NOTES ~ The Scotch Whisky Experience                                                                               

The Scotch Whisky Experience has been sharing the delights of Scotch whisky to a global audience of 8.5 million visitors for more than 35 years and is one of Edinburgh’s five-star attractions.

The new tour experience is included in our Silver, Gold and Platinum whisky tours.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is a five-star visitor attraction, where visitors learn about all aspects of Scotch whisky, situated on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. As well as tours and tastings, guests can purchase whisky and souvenirs in the shop or enjoy a meal at the Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is also home to one of the largest whisky collections in the world, The Diageo Claive Vidiz Scotch Whisky Collection.

The Experience is available in 20 languages with family-friendly and tailored tours and is fully wheelchair accessible.

Open daily with tours available from 10:00 – 17:00

(extended hours at weekends and high season)

Tours range from £21.00 per person and are available to book online at: www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk

BONHAMS APPOINTS CLEMENT GAILLARD AS SPECIALIST OF WHISKY IN BONHAMS PARIS OFFICE

Clément Gaillard

Paris – Bonhams is delighted to announce the appointment of Clément Gaillard as a Whisky Specialist in the Paris office. Clément took up his post on 22 June 2023.  

The appointment of Clément marks the company’s continued growth in Europe after the successful establishment of Wine and Whisky sales in Paris in 2022 and 2023.  

Clément studied History of Art at Sorbonne University. He started his career at La Maison du Whisky in 2016 in Paris, working in one of their boutiques, and then at the Golden Promise Whisky Bar.  Clément went on to join the online platform, Fine Spirits Auction, a collaboration between La Maison du Whisky and iDealwine, as a Whisky Specialist.

Clément will report to Hong-Kong based Diego Lanza, Head of Whisky Asia, and International Head of Sale for Whisky auctions in the UK and Europe. Whisky sales will be held in Paris at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr twice a year. Clément speaks French and English.  

Clément Gaillard said: “Bonhams recent expansion has made it one of the most accessible auction houses in the world with strong local roots. I am delighted to be joining Bonhams at this exciting time in its history. I am looking forward to drawing on all my knowledge and experience to help the company achieve even greater success.” 

Diego Lanza, Head of Department, Whisky, Asia & International Head of Sale, said: “It’s a great pleasure to welcome Clément to Bonhams. His blend of experience in the world of whisky is exactly what we need to develop sales in France.” 

ABOUT BONHAMS

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and collectables, collectors’ cars and a luxury division, which includes jewellery, designer fashion, watches, wine, and whisky. In 2021 and 2022, Bonhams made a number of important acquisitions which form the wider Bonhams network. These include: Bukowskis, Bruun Rasmussen, Bonhams Skinner and Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr.

There are 14 salerooms around the globe: UK: New Bond Street, London; Knightsbridge, London; Edinburgh. US: New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Marlborough. Hong Kong: Admiralty. France: Avenue Hoche, Paris; Rue de la Paix, Paris. Belgium: Brussels; Denmark: Copenhagen. Sweden: Stockholm and Australia: Sydney.

With a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 22 countries, Bonhams offers advice and valuation services in 60+ specialist areas.

In 2022, Bonhams held a number of important auctions and offered landmark single-owner collections, including the white glove sales of Sir Michael Caine: The Personal Collection, Sir Terence Conran: The Contents of Barton Court, Personal Property of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and The Robert & Jean-Pierre Rousset Collection of Asian Art: A Century of Collecting. Other notable single-owner sales included Style and Substance: The Collection of George and Charlotte Shultz and The Claude de Marteau Collection.

Top lots for 2022 included a 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder (Sold for US$4,185,000), a pair of blue and white octagonal candlesticks (Sold for HK$30,453,00/ US$3,911,913), La femme en rouge au fond bleu by Chaïm Soutine (Sold for £1,842,300/ US$2,236,940), and a rare emerald and diamond Cartier bracelet (Sold for US$3,240,375).

More information and highlights can be found HERE

For a full list of forthcoming auctions, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com

The Bonhams Network

Bukowskis

Established in 1870, Bukowskis offers fine art and collectables from its saleroom in Stockholm as well as online. In 2021, it sold 11 of the 15 most valuable artworks in the Swedish market – achieving the highest price for a Swedish artwork ever sold at auction – while their innovative digital presence attracts more than one million users every month.

Bruun Rasmussen

From its Copenhagen saleroom and online, Bruun Rasmussen sells more than 75,000 lots each year across categories from furniture, paintings and modern design to silver, wine and collector’s items such as books, arms and armour, stamps and coins.

Bonhams Skinner

Renowned New England auction house Bonhams Skinner holds some 80 auctions a year in 20 collecting categories – including Americana, fine art, collectables and wine, and ranging from fine violins to contemporary paintings – at its salerooms in Boston and Marlborough, Massachusetts, as well as on its highly effective digital platform for online sales.

Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr

Established in 1973, Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr is famous throughout the auction world for its high-profile single-owner sales. With salerooms in Paris and Brussels, it holds auctions in more than a dozen categories, including fine art, haute couture, Asian art, collectable cars, jewellery, watches and more.