European Novelty. Full Maturation in a Mizunara Cask

The German Distillery St. Kilian in Rüdenau, Lower Frankonia, launched an exclusive whisky rarity: a single malt whisky fully matured in a single virgin Mizunara oak cask.

Common in several regions of Japan, Mizunara oak is among the rarest and most expensive wood used to mature whisky. The Japanese oak for this 225-litre medium toasted single cask is about 250 years old. It was harvested in the forests of the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido.

“Mizunara or Japanese oak (Quercus mongolica) is growing across Japan, but in the North of Japan (Hokkaido) the tree grows slower results with a tighter annual ring which is suitable for producing a barrel. 

The wood delivers some particular taste on the spirits characterized as sandalwood and a much stronger coconut aroma than any oak especially when it interacts with whisky after a long time aging.” Source Ariake Sangyo

Experienced coopers of Ariake Sangyo carefully set up the casks. The treatment of the wood, especially of the staves, is very difficult to handle and only a few coopers are able to bind the casks together. The cask staves and the heads were completely made of Mizunara oak.

St Kilian Distillers imported four medium toasted virgin casks directly by plane from Japan in August 2019.

CTO and Master Blender Mario Rudolf: “The Mizunara oak is known for its unique aromas of sandalwood, oriental spices and exotic fruits, which give the whisky distinctive characterful aromas. This masterpiece of whisky craftsmanship reflects the synergy of Japanese finesse with German distilling art in Scottish pot stills. The exceptional Single Malt promises an incomparable taste as well as an exquisite enjoyment experience for discerning connoisseurs.”

A more than delighted Managing Director Philipp Trützler says: “We are very proud to be able to present this exclusive whisky rarity made from Mizunara oak…According to our research, this is the first non-Japanese single malt whisky to be matured in a single, fresh, unoccupied Mizunara oak cask. A true treasure for whisky lovers and collectors alike.”

The result of the maturation provides a unique taste of ripe fruit and exotic melon paired with warming oak notes, oriental spices and fragrant sandalwood aromas.

The Angels’ Share of cask no.3886 was 4.7% of the initial content which is much higher than normal (2 to 3%). The age of the single malt is three years old plus a few months.

“The cask filling strength was lower than regular…at 55.2 % abv as we intended to generate more sweetness in the whisky,” Mario Rudolf reports. 

St Kilian’s EXCEPTIONAL MIZUNARA

The exceptional Mizunara single cask bottling at natural cask strength of 55.1% abv was limited to 300 bottles.

The Exceptional Bottling of Mizunara is the first of a new St Kilian range which will present further exceptional casks to the customer. The series will only be open for thematic exclusive Single Malts which have matured in one of the 371 different cask types in the nearby St Kilian Bunker City.

The Mizunara specialty whisky is presented in a printed 0.5 litre pot-still shaped glass bottle with noble packaging which will make for the uniqueness of the St Kilian product.

“After numerous tastings of bottlings with Mizunara finish, we wanted to find out what a St Kilian whisky with Mizunara full maturation would taste like,” Master Blender Mario Rudolf explains, “…Inspired by our trip to Japan in 2017, we filled the Mizunara oak barrels with our mild as well as  our peaty new make spirits. By doing so, the present result exceeds by far our expectation and confirms the magic that this extraordinary wood ignites in our whisky.”

Please note: At St. Kilian they intend to do only full maturation in casks and no double maturation or finishings. However, a revatting has to be done when casks accidentally are leaking.

Official Taste Notes

COLOUR. Warm amber

NOSE. A beguiling fruit sweetness, carried by ripe pear, apricot and exotic melon, underpinned by buttery cream toffee, aromatic sandalwood and oriental spices.

PALATE. Fruity sweet start with ripe pears, apples and apricots, at the same time warming with spicy oak and sandalwood notes as well as some pepper, before the creamy fruit melange takes over again.

FINISH. Long lasting with creamy fruit jam, accompanied by dry sandalwood aromas as well as a hint of buttery toffee.

ALCOHOL STRENGTH

55.1% abv “

The St Kilian Exceptional Mizunara is a well balanced harmonious young single malt with some rather pleasing sweetness and a basket full of fruity notions of ripe fruit like apples, pears and some melon along with some lingering spiciness. The soft mouthfeel is long lingering with toffee notes and surprisingly the strong alcohol of 55.1% abv is well embedded and makes for the enforcement of the fruity notes.

St Kilian Honorary Brand Ambassador Udo Sonntag said:

„This whisky  is the opposite of ordinary.

That’s quite a cracker…“ 

There are only a few Exceptional Mizunara St Kilian bottles left at the distillery for direct sale. No wonder most of the 300 bottles were sold within five minutes after the web presentation show on Saturday 6th May 2023 for  €249.00 (0.5l).

NB: There will be further Mizunara St Kilian releases in future. Whisky geeks loving peated whiskies will certainly be pleased when the next Exceptional Mizunara cask will be released.

Website: www.stkiliandistillers.com

BRAVE NEW SPIRITS SUBMITS FINAL PLANNING APPLICATION FOR NEW CAMPBELTOWN DISTILLERY

Witchburn – A Campbeltown Distillery, where tradition meets technology and sustainability

Glasgow. 24/05/23. The Glasgow-based independent whisky bottler and blender Brave New Spirits, have today submitted a final planning application to Argyll & Bute council, for a new single malt whisky distillery at the former RAF Machrihanish airbase in Campbeltown.

The Witchburn Distillery, which will be located between Campbeltown Airport and Machrihanish Village, will use traditional distilling craftsmanship to produce unpeated, lightly peated and heavily peated malts.

The new Net Zero carbon production distillery – which will produce 2 million litres of alcohol per year, will be powered by 100% green renewable energy sources and the latest in heat and energy recovery systems, making Witchburn one of the most environmentally friendly distillery in Scotland. The distillery is planning to run 24/7, to ensure it keeps reusing as much heat and energy as possible.

Witchburn takes its name from the word Witch; originally meant folk healers, mostly ‘wised women’ using herbs and power of imagination. Previously amongst the most respected people in village life. Burn; which comes from the Scots Gaelic for naturally occurring fresh water stream or very small river that flows into a larger river.

When complete Witchburn will operate with 1 Mash tun – with a capacity of 5 tons; 16 Washbacks – each with a capacity of 30,000 litres, allowing for a fermentation period of 96 hours or more; 2 Wash Stills – each with a capacity of 16,000 litres and 2 Spirit Stills – each with a capacity of 7,000 litres.

Witchburn has a carefully planned wood policy, with the majority of its spirit to be filled into barrels from famous American Bourbon producers, Oloroso Sherry casks from various Bodegas, selected Tawny and Ruby Port barriques and organic Bordeaux wine barriques. The distillery will mature its casks in on-site warehousing close to the sea, and in warehouses in the Campbeltown area.

Production at Witchburn will be headed by Founding Master Distiller, Andrew Nairn, former Distillery Manager of Glenkinchie, Strathmill and Borders Distillery, who said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with Organic Architects and Frilli to develop a distillery to produce a truly great Campbeltown Spirit to combine traditional artisan methods of whisky-making with the latest green technology is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Witchburn, which plans to create around 30 permanent new jobs in production, warehousing, and distribution, also plans to open a visitors’ centre in the next few years.

Commenting on the news, joint owners of Brave New Spirits and the new Witchburn Distillery, Adam Hochul and Alexander Springensguth, said: “We are looking forward becoming part of the community, contributing to the already worldwide reputation of Campbeltown whisky. We could not find a better location to build our first still house. The distillery is a great addition to our existing portfolio of internationally recognised brands of Scotch whisky, but also an opportunity to give back to the outstanding community of Scottish whisky distillers.”

“The whole design aims to produce a typical, complex and full-bodied Campbeltown malt. Our aim is to recreate a whisky like it has been produced many decades ago.”

Subject to planning application approval and schedules, production at Witchburn Distillery will commence in the last quarter of 2024.

About Brave New Spirits: Established in 2020, Brave New Spirits, is a multi-award-winning independent whisky bottler and blender, which releases small-batch and single cask Scotch whiskies in over 30 countries, under the Whisky of Voodoo, Cask Noir, and Yellow Edition brands. It has its own warehouse in Glasgow, with a second currently being prepared on the site. The company currently employs a team of 25 and has recently appointed a representative in Japan, to cover Asia.

www.witchburndistillery.com

Twitter: @WitchburnWhisky

Facebook & Instagram: @witchburndistillery

The House of Suntory Launches Limited-Edition Yamazaki^® 12 and 18 Year Old Whiskies in Honor of 100-Year Anniversary 

The renowned Yamazaki Distillery, the oldest malt distillery in Japan, is introducing two limited-edition expressions to celebrate its 100th anniversary

NEW YORK, NY, May 24, 2023 – The House of Suntory celebrates a century of pioneering Japanese whisky with the launch of two limited-edition expressions of its iconic Yamazaki® 12 and 18 Year Old Single Malt Whiskies. Founder Shinjiro Torii established Yamazaki Distillery in 1923, ushering in a new era of whisky-making in Japan. As a nod to its future and to honor the craftsmanship and innovative spirit of the brand, the House of Suntory’s multifaceted centennial range includes the new, limited Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara, a single malt Japanese whisky aged exclusively in rare  Mizunara oak casks, and the classic Yamazaki 12 Year Old clad in limited-edition celebratory packaging for the 100th anniversary.

As the country’s very first and oldest malt whisky distillery, the Yamazaki Distillery has a storied history that is captured in the 2023 limited releases of the new Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara and celebratory packaging on Yamazaki 12 Year Old.  These two bottles are an homage to the brand’s heritage and unwavering dedication to exceptional quality. This is part of a collection of exclusive bottlings that will be introduced this year to commemorate Suntory Whisky’s 100th anniversary.

“Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara was blended for our 100 year anniversary and features a rich texture created from a long aging process. This expresses the delicate and meticulous attention to detail that went into its craftsmanship,” said Fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo. “I believe this whisky embodies the founding family’s spirit to pursue quality, and I am honored to share this with the world.”

The 2023 limited release of Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara seeks to highlight the unique essence of Yamazaki by combining Suntory’s flagship single malt with the irreplicable element of time and the sought-after characteristics of Japanese Mizunara oak, in which the unique malt is aged exclusively. The House of Suntory first discovered and started experimenting with Mizunara wood as early as the 1940s under the supervision of the First Generation Master Blender Shinjiro Torii and Second Generation Master Blender Keizo Saji. The past blenders’ relentless pursuit to crafting whiskies aged in Mizunara paved the way for future experiments. The Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara expression has rich and elegant notes of dark cherry and ripe peach on the nose, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. On the palate, it is subtly spiced with organette undernotes of Japanese incense and a long and lingering finish, accentuated with clove, sandalwood, and hints of dried coconut. The expression is bottled at 48 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $1,500.00 (700ml).

The House of Suntory’s centennial edition of Yamazaki 12 Year Old is designed as an homage to “Monozukuri” craftsmanship— a Japanese principle which embodies elevated artisanship, relentless pursuit for quality, ingenuity and expressiveness. The bottle design for Yamazaki 12 Year Old pays tribute to Yamazaki, the oldest malt distillery in Japan. The illustration captures this legendary distillery in deep copper tones from a low angle, looking up. This perspective is a reminder to always stay grounded and pay homage to Shinjiro Torii’s dream of making whisky blessed with the riches of Japanese nature and craftsmanship.

The Yamazaki 12 Year Old expression presents aromas of peach, pineapple, grapefruit, clove, candied orange, vanilla and Mizunara (Japanese oak) on the nose. On the palate, it has notes of coconut, cranberry and butter, with a pleasantly long finish and sweet ginger cinnamon undertones. The expression is bottled at 43 percent ABV and has a suggested retail price of $185.00 (750ml).

These two special Yamazaki bottles are unveiled alongside two limited-edition Hakushu releases, announced separately. Since its founding, the House of Suntory has been crafting world-class spirits and is known for its Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao, as well as Roku Gin and Haku Vodka.

The new centennial Yamazaki 12 and 18 Year Old bottles will be available this month in select global markets within the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and Asia.

The House of Suntory invites fans to join its new global membership program. Members will be among the first to hear about House of Suntory new releases, receive priority consideration for invitations to consumer experiences*, learn news from the distilleries, gain early access to content and more. The House of Suntory membership program aims to bring Japanese whisky enthusiasts together around the world and provide a cultural journey through Japan. To sign up, please visit us online here.

For more information about the House of Suntory, please visit us online here.

*Limited number of invitations in key cities.

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.

The House of Suntory Launches Limited-Edition Hakushu^® 12 and 18 Year Old Whiskies in Honor of 100-Year Anniversary

From Hakushu’s mountain forest distillery, the House of Suntory proudly introduces two new limited-edition expressions to its iconic ranges as part of the historic brand’s multifaceted centennial celebration

NEW YORK, NY, May 24, 2023 – For the House of Suntory, a pioneer of Japanese whisky, this year marks a century since founder Shinjiro Torii established Yamazaki Distillery, and fifty years since the Hakushu Distillery was formed. As a nod to its future and a way to honor the craftsmanship and innovative spirit of the brand, the House of Suntory announces two limited edition bottlings released for Suntory Whisky’s centennial: a new, limited release Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt, along with the flagship Hakushu 12 Year Old clad in limited-edition celebratory packaging for the 100^th anniversary. These two Hakushu releases are unveiled alongside two limited-edition Yamazaki bottlings, announced separately.

“Blending is at the heart of everything we do at the House of Suntory, and we hold each of our whiskies to the highest standards throughout the process,” shared Fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo. “I am proud to share the release of Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt and special edition packaging of our Hakushu 12 Year Old with the world.”

The House of Suntory’s limited-edition Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt is comprised of meticulously selected malt whiskies all aged for a minimum of 18 years. Nestled deep in Mt. Kaikomagatake, the Second-Generation Master Blender, Keizo Saji, founded the Hakushu Distillery in 1973. Its blenders accepted the challenge of working with peat – a daring move made possible thanks to the area’s unique terroir, climate and exceptional mountain water (filtered through granite rocks) which together soften the whisky’s signature smoky taste.

Refined and elegant, this rare Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt brings a new angle to the world of peated whisky. On the nose, this Hakushu expression features vibrant notes of sage, ripe green apple, and hints of ripe pineapple. It has a complex smoky flavor on the palate that reveals layers of herbal, grapefruit and acacia honey notes, with a smoky finish that lingers with undernotes of fresh green citrus. Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt is presented at 48 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of $1,200.00 (700ml).

The House’s centennial Hakushu 12 Year Old packaging is designed as an homage to “Monozukuri” craftsmanship—a Japanese principle which embodies elevated artisanship, relentless pursuit for quality, ingenuity, and expressiveness. The illustration on the bottle captures the Hakushu Distillery in soft hues of verdant green, representing the forest surrounding the distillery. It depicts Shinjiro Torii’s dream to make whisky blessed with the riches of Japanese nature and craftsmanship that is still carried on today.

On the nose, Hakushu 12 Year Old offers aromas of basil, pine needle and green apple. On the palate, it presents notes of sweet pear, mint and kiwi with a green tea and subtly smoky finish. This expression is bottled at 43 percent ABV with a suggested retail price of $185.00 (750ml).

The Hakushu 12 and 18 Year Old releases will be announced this month in select global markets including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, France, and Singapore. Since its founding, the House of Suntory has been crafting world-class spirits and is known for its Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao, as well as Roku Gin and Haku Vodka.

The House of Suntory invites fans to join its new global membership program. Members will be among the first to hear about House of Suntory new releases, receive priority consideration for invitations to consumer experiences*, learn news from the distilleries, gain early access to content and more. The House of Suntory membership program aims to bring Japanese whisky enthusiasts together around the world and provide a cultural journey through Japan. To sign up, please visit us online here.

For more information about the House of Suntory, please visit us online here.

*Limited number of invitations in key cities.

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

Grain-to-glass Lochlea Distillery

launches inaugural Cask Strength single malt

@lochleawhisky

Family-owned grain-to-glass distillery, Lochlea, is launching its first ever Cask Strength single malt whisky this month as part of a new series of annual special bottlings from the Ayrshire distillery that is fast becoming renowned for its award-winning* whiskies.

This inaugural high proof release – Cask Strength Batch 1 – has been carefully selected by Master Blender John Campbell and his team, bottled straight from the cask at 60.1% ABV. The final spirit has been aged in first-fill ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks that work particularly well at higher strength, amplifying the fruit, nut and cereal flavours that form part of Lochlea’s house style.

Cask Strength follows an array of unique releases from the awarded barley farm-based distillery since it introduced its very first single malt whisky for Burns Night in January 2022 – Lochlea First Release Single Malt Whisky.

Last summer also saw an exciting permanent addition to the range – Lochlea Our Barley. The unpeated single malt is a marriage of three different casks: first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, Oloroso sherry butts and STR barriques, all of which add depth of flavour to the spirit. Launched in July 2022, Our Barley has received much acclaim and multiple awards* as a superb example of a young non-age statement (NAS) whisky made entirely from the distillery’s own home-grown barley.

In celebration of the seasons that govern Lochlea’s own farming practices, the distillery has also released limited edition seasonal whiskies throughout the year, all made from the distillery’s own barley. The seasonal edition releases are: Sowing, Harvest, Fallow and Ploughing Editions. 2022 saw the first edition or ‘Crop’ of each season release with a follow up of each to be revealed again in 2023.

John Campbell, Master Blender said: “Here at Lochlea we are passionate about the quality and traceability of our whiskies and this is reflected in every stage of our whisky-making process. From our own barley fields surrounding the distillery and our traditional wooden washbacks, to our sourcing of the finest casks available and racked warehouse storage, there are absolutely no compromises on our quality. Our new Cask Strength whisky enables this quality to shine through in every dram, showing an amplified version of our signature Lochlea style for those whisky-lovers looking for an extra special something: a bold, yet elegant spirit made with a contemporary approach alongside respected traditions.”

David Ferguson, Commercial Director said: “It’s been a quick 18 months for us since the launch of our first whisky! The recent award wins for our core expression Lochlea Our Barley have been milestones for the distillery, and we’re now following these up with our first ever Cask Strength release. Lochlea Cask Strength Batch 1 brings the Lochlea flavours that our customers have grown to love, but amps them all up a level! I look forward to allocating these bottles across our valued UK on and off-trade partners, and our importers across 20 markets in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific.”

Lochlea was originally a 222 acre livestock farm before being purchased by Neil and Jen McGeoch in 2006. After much consideration of the future of the farm and a successful trial to grow its own barley in 2015, the couple transformed the land and existing farm buildings into a fully operational distillery in 2017 and started distilling the following year. The farming side has remained a unique part of Lochlea, with the move into barley production paving the way for Lochlea to be one of the very few grain-to-glass distilleries in Scotland. It also has a rich Scottish heritage with strong links to Robert Burns, with the bard having worked and lived on the farm during his formative years from 1777 to 1784.

Ahead of the first whisky release in 2022, the team has focused on getting the distillery and business up and running – its quietly confident, yet ambitious approach since being established is starting to make its neighbours sit up and take notice.

Cask Strength Batch 1

Tasting notes:

Cask Strength Batch 1 begins with a concentrated fruit punch note leading to soft cigar notes and aromatic coffee beans. It then develops with more signature Lochlea fruit, a hint of Brazil nuts and finishes with a moreish orange syrup mixed with aged oak shavings.

The casks used comprise approximately a 70/ 30 split between first fill ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry.

Cask Strength Batch 1 launches on Wednesday 31^st May and will be available from selected specialist whisky retailers, RRP: £65.

Lochlea Our Barley is available from specialist whisky retailers across the UK RRP: £45.

For a full list of Lochlea stockists, visit: Lochlea Distillery stockists

WHISKEY RAIDERS LAUNCHES PREMIUM BOTTLE OF THE MONTH CLUB

New club features highly rated & hard to find bottles from the most popular distilleries

New York, NY, May 17, 2023 – Whiskey Raiders, the world’s largest whiskey review website founded by entrepreneur Dan Abrams, announced today the launch of its Bottle of the Month Club. Subscribers to the club will receive hard-to-find whiskies each month that are carefully curated by the Whiskey Raiders staff and have a 90+ rating on whiskeyraiders.com. Live virtual tastings will also be made available to subscribers every month so novices and experts can learn more about each bottle.

The club will offer the choice of one-month, three-month and six-month subscriptions, as well as a “tasting only” option. Tastings will be led by Whiskey Raiders’ Editor-in-Chief Jay West, who was labeled “the most prolific whiskey reviewer on the internet” by Gear Patrol Magazine.

“This club is unique–what sets it apart is the whiskey you’ll receive and joining me and others for the tasting,” says West. “We’ve spent years at Whiskey Raiders curating and sifting through thousands of whiskeys and you’ll only receive top rated bottles we feel are important to the landscape of whiskey. I’m excited to partner that experience with live tastings that will pair whiskey with insight, untold stories and commentary from relevant guests from the whiskey industry.”

In the coming months, Whiskey Raiders will also integrate a customized store experience on its site and sister sites, TequilaRaiders.com, GinRaiders.com, and RumRaiders.com, making it the one-stop-shop for all whiskey needs – from trusted reviews to purchasing the desired bottle. This integration comes as Whiskey Raiders has seen a significant increase in web traffic from its reviews and coverage. Those interested in the Bottle of the Month Club can purchase a membership for a limited time early enrollment discount here.

ABOUT WHISKEY RAIDERS

Founded in 2020 by host, legal analyst and entrepreneur Dan Abrams, Whiskey Raiders is the one-stop shop for whiskey reviews and coverage. The site aggregates individualized reviews from various publications (including its own) into one centralized location and assigns one average score. To date, Whiskey Raiders has scored over 1,900 whiskeys and is among the most highly trafficked whiskey websites in America. Coming off the success of Whiskey Raiders, the team recently launched sister sites TequilaRaiders.com, RumRaiders.com, and GinRaiders.com.

Elijah Craig Becomes a Worldwide Supplier and the Official Bourbon of the Ryder Cup

Ryder Cup Europe and the PGA of America announced today a multi-year partnership that makes Elijah Craig the “Official Bourbon” and a Worldwide Supplier of the Ryder Cup. The Elijah Craig partnership will be showcased at the 2023 Ryder Cup, which takes place at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome from Sept. 29 – Oct. 1, and the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York.

Elijah Craig is credited as the “Father of Bourbon” for being the first to char oak barrels to make bourbon and inspires today’s award-winning family of whiskeys. Elijah Craig Bourbon and Rye Whiskey, as well as a custom Ryder Cup signature cocktail will be available course-wide at each event. Spectators will experience Elijah Craig through a prominent digital media presence across the PGA of America’s and Ryder Cup’s social and digital channels including custom content, run-of-site media and authentic integration across social platforms. Ryder Cup and Bourbon enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to purchase special bottlings of Elijah Craig to commemorate the 2023 Ryder Cup.

First established in 1927, the biennial competition pits 12 of the top professional golfers from the U.S. and Europe against each other in a head-to-head match play competition and has become one of the world’s greatest sporting events, captivating an audience of millions around the globe to watch the Ryder Cup. Elijah Craig continues to leave its mark on the golf world, where it is also the Official Bourbon and Whiskey Supplier of the PGA of America, PGA Championship, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, and an official partner of the PGA National Club Championship. Elijah Craig also serves as the “The Official Bourbon” of PGA TOUR Professional Golfer Max Homa and sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis Renner.

Speaking about the new partnership, Max Stefka, Group Product Director, Elijah Craig Bourbon, said: “It’s an honor to pair Elijah Craig’s quality craftsmanship with the unparalleled history of the Ryder Cup. Few events across the world inspire such passion and pride, and we look forward to celebrating every moment over a glass of Elijah Craig.”

Guy Kinnings, Ryder Cup Director, said: “The Ryder Cup is renowned for its incredible atmosphere and this is helped by world class hospitality for our spectators. As one of the world’s top tourist attractions and a first-time host, Rome promises to be a special occasion this September. Elijah Craig Bourbon will be a fantastic addition to our partner community and we look forward to working together to bring their product range to our spectators.”

Jeff Price, Chief Commercial Officer of the PGA of America, added: “Elijah Craig’s presence at the 2023 Ryder Cup will be a great enhancement to the overall spectator experience. As one of the most prestigious events in sports, we are delighted to have Elijah Craig Bourbon and its unparalleled taste and quality as part of the Ryder Cup festivities at Marco Simone and Bethpage.”

About Elijah Craig Bourbon

Known as “The Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. The clear, unaged corn whiskey became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is. Today, Elijah Craig’s community impact continues through Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week, providing total donations of up to $300,000 to date to organizations supporting the hospitality industry. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led distillery and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, the Elijah Craig lineup includes: Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Elijah Craig’s accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and World’s Best Small Batch Bourbon and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at Whisky Magazine’s 2023 World Whiskies Awards. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com. Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

About Ryder Cup Europe

Ryder Cup Europe – which comprises representatives of the European Tour (60%), of the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland (20%) and the Confederation of Professional Golf through the vehicle of the Ryder Cup European Development Trust (RCEDT) (20%) – owns the rights of the Ryder Cup when the competition is held in Europe.

The European Tour is the Managing Partner and has prime responsibility for all matters concerning the European Team; the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland is the Founding Partner; and the Confederation of Professional Golf is responsible for the management of the Trust, which is the Development Partner.

Our Worldwide Partners for the 2023 Ryder Cup are Aon, BMW, Capgemini and Rolex.

About PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of nearly 28,000 PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and inclusion in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

The House of Suntory Proudly Celebrates 100 Years of Pioneering Japanese Spirit

The Founding House of Japanese Whisky partners with film icons Sofia Coppola and Keanu Reeves and introduces new limited-edition whiskies to toast its centennial 

NEW YORK, NY, May 24, 2023 – The House of Suntory, the Founding House of Japanese Whisky, celebrates its 100th anniversary of whisky innovation: a major milestone not only for Suntory’s history but for Japanese spirits culture. In honor of this centennial, the House releases a Suntory Anniversary Tribute as imagined by Academy Award-winning Director Sofia Coppola and starring Actor Keanu Reeves, as well as exclusive 100th anniversary editions of its world-renowned whiskies.

Twenty years after filming Lost in Translation, Sofia Coppola returned to Japan to create the Suntory Anniversary Tribute. Coppola brings her artistic genius and admiration for Suntory Whisky to life as the creative director of The Tribute that honors Suntory’s illustrious past, present and future. The Suntory Anniversary Tribute tells the remarkable story of the brand’s heritage and whisky-making legacy over the last 100 years, depicting the meaning of “Suntory Time” through the eyes of its creator. The Suntory Anniversary Tribute, which features actor Keanu Reeves, a lover of Suntory Whisky and who previously appeared in a Suntory Reserve ad campaign in 1992, debuted yesterday during the Suntory Time 100th Anniversary Global Premiere event in New York City and can now be viewed on the House of Suntory website here.

“As the pioneer of Japanese whisky, the House of Suntory played a significant role in shaping culture and leading craftsmanship in Japan over the last century,” said Jon Potter, Managing Director of House of Suntory. “To mark this historic milestone, partnering with Sofia and Keanu, who are Suntory Whisky fans, makes perfect sense. From our Fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s striking blends to Sofia and Keanu’s unique cinematic creations, this commemoration has surpassed all expectations to celebrate our iconic Japanese whiskies.”

Later this summer, Reeves will star in another creative project in partnership with the House of Suntory: a series of documentary shorts from filmmaker Roman Coppola titled: “The Nature and Spirit of Japan.” The series explores Japanese whisky culture inspired by harmony with nature (Wa), elevated by Japanese craftsmanship (Monozukuri) and enjoyed as an authentic Japanese cultural experience (Omotenashi). The docuseries will strike a balance between education and entertainment, aiming to foster a deeper exploration of the House of Suntory and Japanese culture overall.

“I’m honored to partner with Suntory Whisky again thirty years after our Suntory Reserve campaign,” said Keanu Reeves. “I’m a huge fan of Suntory Whisky, so it’s very special to collaborate in honor of this milestone anniversary.  My admiration for the whisky goes beyond tasting the whisky. It is the elevated Japanese craftsmanship and attention to every detail that makes Suntory Whisky so special. As an actor honing and perfecting my own craft, sharing this process in a docuseries is a thrill.”

In honor of the centennial, the House of Suntory is releasing several limited-edition whiskies that highlight the unique Japanese craftsmanship at Suntory’s whisky distilleries and their meticulous art of blending, including  Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara and Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt whiskies. Limited 100th anniversary labels of the flagship Yamazaki 12 Year Old and Hakushu 12 Year Old will also be released for the centennial.

“Hakushu and Yamazaki whiskies are gifts from our past handed down by generations,” said Fifth Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo. “It is fitting to release limited editions as part of this incredible milestone, as they represent our relentless pursuit of quality and symbolize our promise to carry our philosophy on for the next one hundred years and beyond.”

The centennial of the House of Suntory began with the establishment of its Yamazaki Distillery in 1923 —the first and oldest malt whisky distillery in Japan’s history. The House of Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii’s 100-year legacy began with a dream to “create an original Japanese whisky blessed with the riches of Japanese nature and craftsmanship,” which his grandson Shingo Torii carries forth today at Yamazaki and its distilleries across the country. Since its founding, the House of Suntory has been crafting world-class spirits and is known for Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Whisky Toki and Ao, as well as Roku Gin and Haku Vodka.

This landmark anniversary is a significant milestone for House of Suntory and for its home country of Japan. As a first step toward its promising future, the House of Suntory is investing 10 billion JPY ($77 million USD) to enhance its Yamazaki and Hakushu Distilleries which are currently closed for renovation and scheduled to reopen this fall. The House of Suntory has become synonymous with some of the best Japanese whiskies in the world today, and it has undoubtedly built a legacy worthy of celebration.

The House of Suntory invites fans to join its new global membership program. Members will be among the first to hear about House of Suntory new releases, receive priority consideration for invitations to consumer experiences*, learn news from the distilleries, gain early access to content and more. The House of Suntory membership program aims to bring Japanese whisky enthusiasts together around the world and provide a cultural journey through Japan. To sign up, please visit us online here.

For more information about the House of Suntory, please visit us online here. 

*Limited number of invitations in key cities.  

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

Cutty Sark Whisky creates 100^th birthday cocktails to toast tea clipper behind its name

The iconic blended Scotch whisky Cutty Sark is celebrating 100 years of adventures this Spring with a new partnership that pays tribute to the legendary ship that inspired its name.

Founded in London back in March 1923 at the heart of the prohibition era, Cutty Sark was named after the famous tea-clipper of the same name: once the fastest ship of its day and docked in England at the time of the whisky’s invention by London’s Berry Bros & Rudd.

A hundred years on, a new range of cocktails has been created in collaboration with modern-day tea producers The Tea Leaf Company, to toast the whisky’s centenary and the Cutty Sark’s tea-trading past – just in time for National Tea Day on 21^st April.

Three delicious tea-infused recipes have been released, each a modern twist on a Cutty Sark classic, made by mixing this light, easy-drinking blended whisky with one of the Tea Leaf Company’s award-winning loose-leaf blends.

Easy for drinkers to mix and enjoy with friends at home, each cocktail offers a delicious and adventurous way to enjoy whisky, for novices and connoisseurs alike.

James Collins, Marketing Manager of Cutty Sark said: ‘Cutty Sark was founded 100 years ago as an adventurous new type of whisky, taking inspiration from the endeavours of the Cutty Sark ship and its crew.

‘Our new collaboration with The Tea Leaf Co. has been created with that same bold spirit, delving into our past but putting a modern spin on our classic cocktail serves. Cutty Sark is wonderfully smooth, mellow, and made to mix, so these flavour-packed, easy-to-make cocktails are perfect for enjoying at home with friends.’

Justin Robinson Founder of The Tea Leaf Co. said, “This National Tea Day, we are delighted to collaborate with Cutty Sark to give their classic recipes a twist with our range of hand rolled loose leaf blends. Steal a moment this 21st April to raise a Tea Leaf Co. tea infused cocktail in celebration of the nation’s favourite drink”.

Ready to get involved? Gather your friends, get the kettle on, and give them a go! 

CuTEA CLIPPER

An homage to the Cutty Sark’s maiden voyage where she returned from China with enough tea on board to make 200 million cups! The sweet, orchid-like flavour of the Tea Leaf Co’s NO: 07 TI KUAN YIN CHINESE OOLONG combined with the rich and warm notes of Cutty Sark Classic, makes this the perfect drink to unwind with at the end of a long day!

Ingredients:
50ml Cutty Sark Whisky
50ml brewed The Tea Leaf Co. Ti Kuan Yin Chinee Oolong
Soda Water
Lemon

Preparation:

Stew the tea leaves in a cup of hot water for 3 minutes, leave to cool. Add the whisky and tea to a highball glass filled with ice and stir to combine. Top with soda water and garnish with a lemon wheel.

ORANGE OLD FASHIONED

An elevated version of the classic Cutty cocktail using The Tea Leaf Co. NO: 05 BLOOD ORANGE INFUSION which is bright and tangy, and packs a bold, citrussy punch that’s as tart as it is sweet.

Ingredients:
50ml Cutty Sark Classic
10ml The Tea Leaf Co. Blood Orange Tea Syrup (see method)
2 dashes Angostura bitters
2 dashes orange bitters
1 orange peel to garnish

Preparation:

Fill a mixing glass with ice and add the whisky, Blood Orange Tea syrup and bitters. Stir for 3 minutes. Fill a rocks glass with ice and strain the liquid into the ice-filled glass. Garnish with an orange peel, we like a sail!

To make the syrup: Combine equal parts steeped Blood Orange tea and granulated sugar in a pan, and over heat stir until the sugar dissolves. Put in the fridge to chill. Keeps refrigerated for up to 1 month.

SMUGGLER’S SPICE

Prohibition era bootlegger Bill McCoy imported Cutty Sark whisky to the people of America. In case of a raid, his speakeasy patrons would keep things hush hush by sipping their hooch out of dainty teacups.  100 years on, we’re serving up mugs of our Smugglers Spice cocktail featuring Tea Leaf Co’s SMUGGLERS SPICE INDIAN CHAI.

Ingredients:

50ml Cutty Sark Whisky
20ml fresh lemon juice
20ml Tea Leaf Co. Smugglers Spice Chai syrup
Small spoon of honey
Ginger beer
½ a pear

Preparation:

In one half of the cocktail shaker muddle the pear with honey and lemon. Add the whisky and ice and shake. Strain over fresh ice into a mug. Top with ginger beer and garnish with 2 pear slices.

To make the syrup: Combine equal parts steeped chai tea and granulated sugar in a pan, and over heat stir until the sugar dissolves. Put in the fridge to chill. Keeps refrigerated for up to 1 month.

#spiritofadventure

www.cutty-sark.com

CUTTY SARK : Cutty Sark was first produced in 1923 by the wine merchant Berry Bros. & Rudd. Named after the eponymous ship, the Cutty Sark, which spent its life sailing around the world and was a key player in the Great Tea Races of the late 1800s, the brand’s sense of adventure continues today and manifests in a whisky that dares to be different. Masterfully blended from the finest single malts and top-quality grain whiskies, our unique light and refreshing, versatile blend that creates great tasting drinks for enjoying in great company.

THE TEA LEAF CO: The Tea Leaf Co. love the colourful history of tea and celebrate some of the characters in their delicious loose-leaf blends. They have partnered with a family tea garden in North East India to ensure that their tea is cultivated with a respect for tradition and people.

Still Spirit strengthens whisky business with £1 million cask warehouse investment

— The state-of-the-art warehouse will allow buyers across the globe to own and monitor whisky casks with confidence –

Whisky fans across the globe can now enjoy the ultimate whisky cask ownership experience thanks to the launch of Still Spirit’s new state-of-the-art cask warehouse.

Investing over £1 million, the warehouse is equipped with industry leading technology, including a bespoke racking storage system and management software which displays the cask’s history at a glance.

With capacity of over 2,000 casks, the warehouse has been carefully developed to allow Still Spirit to offer a full suite of cask services to private customers around the world – from purchasing whisky casks, storage, tasting samples, regauging, and re-racking, all the way to assistance with selling casks or bottling.

Still Spirit owns and verifies all casks available for sale, storing them in its own secure private warehouse, where strict HRMC guidelines are followed to ensure the proper ownership paperwork is delivered to the owner.

The catalogue includes over 1,000 casks from over 80 distilleries, covering single malt, single grain, and blends from a variety of vintages. All casks are owned by the group, have been verified for quality and authenticity, and are monitored daily by the warehouse team. Clients can manage their cask requests seamlessly through Still Spirit’s new cask e-commerce website for any additional services needed.

Those who purchase a cask will also have the chance to monitor its progress, including visiting the warehouse and sampling the whisky as it matures. Bottling or reselling the cask can also be assisted via Still Spirit’s sister whisky auction business, Whisky Hammer.

Daniel Milne, co-founder and managing director of Whisky Hammer and Still Spirit, said: “Craig and I are extremely proud to be able to open our cask warehouse in Aberdeenshire. This is a milestone achievement for us as it showcases our drive for further establishment in the whisky industry with a notable focus on ‘doing it right’.

“With Still Spirit, we can offer whisky enthusiasts worldwide the chance to own and monitor their own casks with confidence.”

Founded by brothers Daniel and Craig Milne in 2016, Whisky Hammer is a family-run whisky auction service that has achieved worldwide acclaim for hosting monthly auctions dedicated to whisky and other fine spirits. It has achieved the world record for the highest value cask ever sold at auction.

Four years later, they opened their Still Spirit premises in Ellon – a whisky shop, e-commerce site and dram bar offering over 100 rare whiskies.

For more information on available casks, visit casks.stillspirit.co.uk.

About Whisky Hammer

Whisky Hammer is a family run whisky auction service founded by brothers and keen whisky enthusiasts Daniel and Craig Milne, who are supported by a team of passionate experts acting as trusted advisors to both buyers and sellers.

Whisky Hammer hosts monthly auctions dedicated to whisky and other fine spirits, which attract more than 200,000 buyers and sellers from every corner of the globe. It has auctioned a wide range of whiskies, both bottles and casks, recently achieving the world record for the highest value cask ever sold at auction.

The superior service offered by Whisky Hammer means it is trusted by some of the world’s most prominent whisky collectors and sellers, with a 5-star TrustPilot rating.

Follow Whisky Hammer at @whiskyhammer on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.whiskyhammer.com