THE HOUSE OF SUNTORY PARTNERS WITH 100 OF THE UK’s BEST BARS TO CELEBRATE A 100 YEARS OF WHISKY INNOVATION

From July, in celebration of The House of Suntory’s 100^th anniversary, 100 of the UK’s most prestigious bars including The Arts Club, Three Sheets, The American Bar at Gleneagles and Lucknam Park Hotel will be serving a host of specially created cocktails and serves

LONDON, 19 July 2023 – To mark The House of Suntory’s 100th anniversary, the Founding House of Japanese Whisky is partnering with 100 of the UK’s most prestigious bars. As part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to the on-trade and hospitality sector, partnering venues will offer their guests the unique opportunity to experience firsthand the elevated Japanese craftsmanship and attention to every detail the brand is renowned for.

Bars including The Arts Club, Coupette and Three Sheets, as well as hotels such as the Ham Yard Hotel and Calcot Manor, have created bespoke menus of The House of Suntory cocktails and serves, crafted in line with the brand’s three pillars; being in harmony with nature (Wa), elevated Japanese craftsmanship (Monozukuri) and the enjoyment of an authentic Japanese cultural experience (Omotenashi).

Each venue will offer guests the chance to sample from across the brand’s portfolio, including serves made with Toki and Hibiki, in addition to new limited-edition whiskies released in honour of the anniversary – the Yamazaki 18 Year Old Mizunara and the Hakushu 18 Year Old Peated Malt.

Sarah Isaac, Head of Beam-Suntory brands, UK commented: “Our anniversary isn’t just a celebration of 100 years of The House of Suntory, it’s also a moment to celebrate our ongoing collaboration with our trade partners in the appreciation of Japanese culture and bartending. As a mark of our continued support, we’re joining the best venues and bars in the country to toast 100 years of pioneering Japanese spirit.” 

From July until the end of the year, those wishing to experience a sample of Japanese craftsmanship and innovation can do so by visiting the below bars in July and August.

The 100 bars initiative follows the launch of the brand’s centennial campaign in May, with the House partnering with Academy Award-winning Director Sofia Coppola and Actor Keanu Reeves to create the Suntory Anniversary Video Tribute which tells the remarkable story of the brand’s heritage and whisky-making legacy over the last 100 years, depicting the meaning of “Suntory Time”.

Later this summer, Reeves, who previously appeared in a Suntory Reserve ad campaign in 1992. will star in a series of documentary shorts titled: “The Nature and Spirit of Japan,” directed by Roman Coppola. 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).

In honour of the centennial, the House of Suntory has also released 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 have also been released for the centennial.

For more information about the House of Suntory, please visit us online here. Search #SuntoryTime for more information or visit @suntorywhisky.

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 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.

CÀRN MÒR COLLABORATES WITH WASTED DEGREES BREWERY

Aberargie, Scotland – Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers has announced their first ever Càrn Mòr collaboration. The Single Malt Scotch Whisky brand has teamed up with fellow Perthshire business, Wasted Degrees brewing to release a one-off expression.

The original liquid was distilled in 2012 at Glen Ord Distillery and after spending 9 years maturing in bourbon barrels, it was then transferred to a Wasted Degrees Porter Cask for an additional year of maturation and finally bottled in July 2023 at Cask Strength. The end result, something quite spectacular!

Niel Hendriksz, Sales Director, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers said: “Working with the team at Wasted Degrees on this project was an absolute pleasure, given we share an intimate passion for good quality liquid and flavour creation. Collaborating with a local, independent business that shares our values and approach to business made this partnership an exciting exploration of the interaction between the various elements to create a truly unique product.” Graeme Mackeddie, Head of Production, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers continued: This was our first experiment of this nature, so keeping a close eye on maturation and how the spirit was developing was critical. After about 6 months we got a fairly good idea of the interaction and were very satisfied with the progress. After 12 months we felt the interaction between spirit and wood had achieved great balance and complexity at the same time. It was an absolute delight to put this liquid in a bottle for us to share. 

Limited to 428 bottles, the Càrn Mòr Porter Cask combines a burst of orange marmalade, layered with velvety smooth salted caramel and a hint of honeycomb to finish.

Jack Low, Co-Owner & Director, Wasted Degrees Brewing said: “We are flavour explorers and the prospect of working with one of the country’s leading whisky makers was one we couldn’t miss! The beauty of this project is in the unknown, the alchemy of combining different materials, vessels, ingredients, drinks, to produce something of unique character. Much like single cask or limited release whisky bottlings, we take a similar approach to our range of beers: we only re-brew two of our recipes, and everything else is a one off – we’re here to explore together, confident in the journey ahead because of the quality of the brand and how the drink is produced. 

Speaking of the porter matured in the barrels, Conall Low, Co-Owner & Director, Wasted Degrees Brewing continued: ‘ It was brewed with rich malts and then aged (post-fermentation) for 6 months in three different ex-Loch Lomond whisky barrels belonging to Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers. Owing to the beauty of the casks going on to season more whisky, the beer is now long gone, but its legacy is in the soul of this new and exciting whisky! 

Càrn Mòr have also released a bottling of Glen Ord 2012, however this has had a full-term maturation in Bourbon Barrels, making it especially interesting to try with the Wasted Degrees Càrn Mòr, to compare the impact that different casks can have on a whisky.

Càrn Mòr Porter Cask is available to purchase now for £68 from Dunkeld Whisky Box

TASTING NOTES

Càrn Mòr Porter Cask

54.8% ABV

RRP: £68

Colour: Bank vault gold

Nose: Pink peppercorns and vanilla

Tasting Notes: A burst of orange marmalade layered with velvety smooth salted caramel and a hint of honeycomb on the finish

ABOUT MORRISON SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERS 

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

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

In every whisky they release, they are committed to continue to impart the knowledge that has been passed down from generations of family whisky makers.

Where many distilleries strive for consistency across larger batches, Càrn Mòr is able to release unadulterated expressions from these distilleries using traditional methods meaning it is as close to drinking straight from the cask as possible.

To find out more about Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers visit www.morrisondistillers.com or for Carn Mor visit www.carnmorwhisky.co.uk

ABOUT WASTED DEGREES

Founded in 2016, Wasted Degrees is owned by Perthshire brothers, Conall and Jack Low, both former pupils of Pitlochry High School and Breadalbane Academy.

It all began in a garage, a hobby running out of control with the ink barely dry on Conall’s teaching degree. Jack joined as co-owner in 2021, following a career in Commercial & Product Development, latterly in an international role in the Scotch Whisky industry.

The brewery produces craft beer from its 100% renewables powered brewhouse in Blair Atholl. From a 20 litre plastic home brew bucket, the business has grown to producing up to 20,000 litres of beer per month.

Underpinned by a strong sense of social & environmental responsibility, the team is very driven by the impact they can have on the local area, creating job opportunities and doing what they can for the local community, such as providing free period products at the brewery in an effort to tackle rural period poverty.

And from locally grown hops or brewing with native plants, Wasted Degrees makes a concerted effort to reduce the ‘food miles’ in its supply chain. It’s clearly about more than just the beer for them.

For more information go to www.wasteddegrees.com

Hard Truth Releases High Road Sweet Mash Rye

Developed by Hard Truth Distilling Co.

 to introduce more whiskey lovers to the qualities of sweet mash rye

Nashville, Ind. (July 18, 2023) – Indiana-based Hard Truth Distilling Co. today announced the release of Hard Truth High Road Sweet Mash Rye – a new sweet mash rye whiskey expression developed for a wider range of rye whiskey fans to experience the flavor, nuances and subtleties of the sweet mash rye distilling process.

According to Hard Truth’s Master Distiller Bryan Smith, the overwhelmingly positive response to Hard Truth’s rapidly-growing line of sweet mash rye whiskies — in terms of sales and feedback from reviewers and consumers alike – led to the development of a sweet mash rye with a lower proof and price point that will help build the entire sweet mash category.

“Our internal evaluation panel results along with taste-testing in twenty-plus markets confirmed that this is one of the most delicious, sweet mash rye whiskies we’ve ever produced,” said Bryan Smith, Hard Truth Master Distiller. “Not coincidentally this will be our first year-round sweet mash rye whiskey with corn in the mash bill.” 

Hard Truth High Road Sweet Mash Rye is bottled at 46.5 percent ABV (93 proof). It is available in 750 mL bottles with a suggested retail price of $39.99. High Road features 55 percent rye, 36 percent corn, and 9 percent malted barley.

High Road features a deep copper appearance, with an aroma of apricot jam, honey, baking spice and graham cracker. Its taste offers up rich vanilla, maple, custard, and spices that coat the tongue. Its finish is bold with a lingering caramel that fades to honey, coffee and nougat.

“We’re proud that Hard Truth is at the forefront of what we believe is a sweet mash rye revolution,” said Smith. “Sweet mashing – a process in which each batch of whiskey

begins with entirely fresh ingredients – typically results in whiskeys that are softer and have a more complex palate. And even though the process is more labor intensive, meticulous and costly than sour mashing, we believe the result is a rye whiskey that is both distinctive and delicious.”

High Road was distilled with the same skill, innovation and passion of its sweet mash predecessor, Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye introduced in 2020. “Since the day we opened the doors at Hard Truth, we have been working to develop a versatile multi-occasion sweet mash rye whiskey that is perfect on its own, on the rocks or in your favorite whiskey cocktail,” said Smith. “We’re confident that High Road is that whiskey.”

High Road will be Hard Truth’s largest scale release in the 8-year history of the distillery. The production of High Road is one of numerous reasons Hard Truth recently conducted a major distillery expansion that includes the construction of its second rackhouse. Just completed Rackhouse No. 2 is twice the size of Hard Truth’s first rackhouse, tripling storage capacity from 4,000 to 12,000 barrels.

Hard Truth sweet 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’s Master Distiller’s Reserve Malted Rye Sweet Mash Rye Whiskey won the prestigious 2023 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits competition.

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.

Hard Truth’s spirits are distributed in Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin and Wyoming with several new states coming on board in 2023.

Founded in 2015, Hard Truth Distilling Co. quickly outgrew its original production facility, and by 2017 construction had begun on its current facility, a distillery housed in a 50,000-square foot building equipped with a state-of-the-art Vendome Copper & Brass distilling system. Hard Truth’s destination campus spans 325 wooded acres in Brown County, Indiana — an artists’ colony and tourist destination with the largest state park in Indiana.

Lux Row Distillers Introduces Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel Bourbon 

Latest offering, featuring Lux Row’s ryed- and wheated-bourbon mashbills, will be offered in limited allocations starting in August

ST. LOUIS (July 17, 2023) – Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers is offering the best of both worlds by combining its ryed- and wheated-bourbon mashbills with the introduction of Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel Bourbon. A limited allocation of 7,500 (6-pack) cases will start arriving at retail this August at a suggested price of $79.99 per 750 ml bottle.

Offered at 115 proof, Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel Bourbon is the combination of a single barrel of 4-year-old wheated bourbon and a single barrel of 4-year-old ryed bourbon. The wheated mashbill produces a smoother bourbon with caramel and citrus notes and velvety oak finish, while the ryed mashbill produces a spicier bourbon with hints of caramel and vanilla and smooth, mellow finish. Together, the bourbon’s four grains (corn, wheat, rye and malted barley) come together in a balanced, flavorful mix of both mashbills.

“The enormous popularity of our Lux Row 12 Year Bourbon, despite being a Kentucky-only distillery-exclusive offering, inspired the creation of a bourbon that could be offered in all markets. The result is Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel Bourbon,” said Eric Winter, whiskey brand manager at Luxco. “The ‘double single barrel mashbill’ is a direct innovation from Lux Row 12 Year’s double barrel mashbill. Combining Lux Row Distillers’ two mashbills in this fashion has created a unique four-grain bourbon with a well-balanced taste that is certain to become a favorite of both ryed- and wheated-bourbon drinkers.”

Lux Row Four Grain Double Single Barrel is offered in the same high-end bottle as Lux Row 12 Year and will feature a front metal-plate Lux Row logo and custom metal-plate collar. The customized bottom label features each bottle’s barrel number and fill date for each of the two single barrels utilized. The side and neck label call out the four-grain aspect of the bourbon’s mashbill.

About Luxco

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

Tomatin takes home the gold at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Award-winning Highland distillery, Tomatin, has added another ten accolades to its growing collection, after sweeping up at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC).

Located in the heart of the Highlands, the Tomatin distillery is known for its elegant spirit which has continued to excite the industry and consumers with a remarkable range of premium single malt whiskies.

Judges at the SFWSC 2023 awarded Tomatin:

• 36 Year Old single malt – Double Gold
• 30 Year Old single malt– Double Gold
• 18 Year Old single malt – Double Gold
• 12 Year Old single malt – Gold
• Legacy single malt – Gold
• Cask Strength single malt – Gold
• 14 Year Old – Silver

It is the second year in a row that the distillery’s 18 Year Old has picked up Double Gold at the world renowned competition.

Judges at SFWSC 2023 also recognised Cù Bòcan, a single malt brand distilled at the Tomatin distillery in limited batches every winter, focusing on unusual cask maturations.  Judges awarded the Cù Bòcan Signature and 15 Year Old with Double Gold, while its Creation #5, the latest release which was only revealed last month, took home a Gold.

The SFWSC is one of the world’s most prestigious spirits contests, with experts from the drinks industry leading the judging process. The 2023 event was held at Hotel Nikko in San Francisco from April 13th until April 15^th and was another record-breaking year with more than 5,500 entries from all corners of the world.

Graham Eunson, Master Distiller at Tomatin Distillery, said:

“What an honour to receive such praise of our distillery at one of the world’s best spirits competitions. The breadth and depth of our liquid profile has really shone through, with judges selecting the best of our core range and premium editions.

“These kinds of accolades serve as fantastic recognition of our efforts, and the great work of the Tomatin team, who are central to the quality of whisky that we produce here.”

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 whiskies.

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 Fransisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, which is produced at the distillery in limited batches every winter, took home three.

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES SOUTHERN KENTUCKY DISTILLERY AS NEWEST MEMBER

BOURBON CONTINUES EXPANDING ACROSS KENTUCKY, BUILDING A STRONG FUTURE FOR ADDITIONAL COMMUNITIES

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Southern Kentucky Distillery in Cumberland County as the newest member of the historic non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Located at 4890 Albany Road in Burkesville, Southern Kentucky Distillery was founded in 2018 and opened in 2022 by Junior Cecil, Dr. Michael Wilson and Kevin Dailey. All three are originally from the area and graduates of universities in Kentucky.

The distillery currently produces 25 barrels per day with plans for an expansion this month that will double its capacity to 50 barrels per day. Brands include Ancient Sun Vodka, Slate Fork Flavored Moonshine and upcoming Broadhead Wheated Bourbon and Long Ridge Rye Bourbon.

Owners plan to open the gift shop and tasting room for tours later this year, as well as spaces for weddings and events. Southern Kentucky Distillery joins the KDA as a Craft level member, aging between 1 and 10,000 barrels per year.

“We are proud of our team and humbled by the support we have received locally for the distillery,” Dailey said. “We look forward to working with the KDA to honor and share the traditions of making Bourbon here in Cumberland County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”

Co-founder Cecil said the state of Kentucky and the Kentucky Distillers’ Association have done a tremendous job promoting the Bourbon industry worldwide. “Even before we started up, the KDA supported us with many references for our legal and compliance efforts.”

Dr. Wilson said, “Joining the KDA is an important part of our business plans. Our region and its picturesque lakes attract visitors from all over, and we look forward to introducing bourbon to more of them!”

KDA President Eric Gregory said the industry has been excited to watch Southern Kentucky Distillery’s progress over the last few years, as Cumberland County was a “dry” territory without alcohol sales until 2016.

“As Bourbon builds in additional communities across the Commonwealth, Cumberland County will continue to benefit from the economic development, tax revenue, jobs and tourism that comes with it,” Gregory said. “We’re thrilled that Cumberland County and the south-central region of Kentucky are able to take part in the Kentucky Bourbon renaissance thanks to the incredible team at Southern Kentucky Distillery. We proudly welcome them to the KDA and our family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

Old Pulteney reveals oldest single malt to date for Distillers One of One Auction

Old Pulteney has announced “Bow Wave,” a 45 Year Old Single Malt and the oldest expression from the Highland distillery to date

One single art piece has been produced, available via bids at The Distillers One of One auction in October 2023

This exceptionally rare whisky exhibits a complex flavour profile alongside the signature maritime tasting notes of Old Pulteney

Old Pulteney Bow Wave is presented in a hand-crafted art piece which represents the movement of a ship through crashing waves

Old Pulteney, The Maritime Malt, is unveiling its oldest expression to date, a 45 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky titled Bow Wave, in a monumental milestone in the distillery’s history. This never-to-be-repeated masterpiece is available exclusively through the biennial Distillers One of One auction, offering an unprecedented opportunity to own a piece of Old Pulteney’s history.

Crafted with rarity at its core, Old Pulteney Bow Wave has carefully matured for more than four decades within hand-selected American oak casks before completing its voyage with a further five years maturation inside a single first-fill Spanish oak butt. Emerging deep golden in colour, Bow Wave has maritime flavours imparted from the northern sea air that laps the distillery found on the Caithness Coast in the Scottish Highlands.

Old Pulteney Bow Wave boasts a magnificent complexity and an unrivalled coastal character. Subtle whispers of sea spray entwine with the sweetness of honey, while delicate notes of aged oak and briny whispers of maritime air tantalise the palate. With each sip, Bow Wave bares its maritime soul, concluding with a long finish which is almost as enduring as the liquid itself.

Renowned whisky expert and award-winning writer, Dave Broom praises its remarkable taste: “Glowing amber. Refined, clearly mature, yet still fresh. There are hints of dried pineapple, a slight wax polish, then scented sandalwood and myrrh with a hint of austerity behind. In time, there’s oxidised nutty notes, then leather oils which stray towards varnish. Complex and fascinating.

“The palate is quite a contrast. It starts with a silky, almost slippery, highly concentrated sweetness, then an incredible burst of bright fruits like captured sunlight. The tongue-clinging quality shifts in the middle of the tongue as some of the famed minerality comes in, working in tandem with touches of drier wood. Then it seems to exhale and the softness returns. Now the full complexity is revealed, supple tannins, mature oxidised fruits, rosehip, and stewed rhubarb.

“There’s a tiny bitter touch on the end before the dried pineapple returns, this time beside preserved lemon. It’s not finished though, as after you’ve swallowed an almost pillowy softness returns.

“Remarkable.”

As the defining symbol of Old Pulteney’s dedication to exceptional craftsmanship, this expression is encased within an equally remarkable bottle. Presented upon a bed of Caithness slate, the bottle is crafted from hand-blown glass with complex Inciso cuts mirroring the essence of crashing waves. The deep blue hue of the bottle encapsulates the sea’s endless depths, while glimpses of the golden liquid shine through like reflections of a morning sunrise. Surrounding the glass, beautifully crafted Scottish silverware fashioned by local Silversmith, Lucy Woodley encircles the finished vessel in all its splendour. The hidden cork, accessed only by a bespoke anchor key created by Glasstorm, beckons the senses, evoking the timeless rhythm of crashing waves.

Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns, Glass Artist and Designers at Glasstorm, the designers behind the bottle, said:  “This whisky is the jewel in Old Pulteney’s collection, and we wanted this piece to celebrate not only their oldest ever whisky, but the character and personality of the Maritime Malt itself. Coupled with our personal fondness of the Caithness Coast, we were dedicated to deliver the best craftsmanship and create a work of art worthy of the liquid gold inside.

“The distillery’s rich history provided so much inspiration, but also something as simple as a beautifully shaped pebble Nicky and I found while walking along the northern beaches. This one pebble, and its motion through the water, mirrored the bow of a boat breaking the waves, which ultimately influenced the Cabachon shape at the heart of the sculpture.

“We’re incredibly proud of the final result. With further influences from the rugged sea cliffs to the ever-changing nature of the sea, each aspect of this ensemble is unique, but when you bring them together, you have something truly magical.”

Malcolm Waring, Distillery Manager at Old Pulteney, said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to finally announce Old Pulteney Bow Wave, created specially for the Distillers One of One auction later this year.

“After maturing for more than four decades, this one-of-a-kind single malt, as the oldest in our history, is testament to the enduring spirit, patience and pride of Old Pulteney’s award-winning distillery.”

The Distillers One of One auction will be hosted at Hopetoun House on 5th October 2023 with proceeds donated to The Distillers Charity. To register interest in this auction, visit the Distillers One of One website.

THE MACALLAN REFLECTIONS ON THE RIVER SPEY JOINS THIS SUMMER’S

CALENDAR AT THE ESTATE

The Macallan Estate has announced a remarkable new theatrical and musical experience to join its repertoire of performances this summer.

The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey shares vignettes of life at The Macallan Estate from centuries past, interweaving enchanting tales from The Macallan’s pioneering figures with music and enlightening conversation from one of Scotland’s most acclaimed classical guitarists, Matthew McAllister.

Matthew, who is from Glasgow and holds the post of Classical Guitar Lecturer at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, has been delighting audiences around the world with his insightful performances in a concert career spanning more than 20 years.

He is a highly accomplished musician with 10 critically acclaimed albums to his name, and has toured extensively throughout north and south America, Europe and Asia, both as a soloist and a chamber musician. Unfolding on the banks of the River Spey, this exclusive performance follows the inspiring life and times of Roderick Kemp, who took over The Macallan Distillery in 1892.

Theatre-goers can also delve into the real-life story of former managing director, Janet Harbinson, who was known as ‘Nettie’ and inspired The Spirit of 1926, The Macallan’s first biopic, which was released in November 2022.

The release of tickets for The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey follows the premier of The Macallan Pioneers, a theatrical journey which made its debut on Saturday 8 July.

Both theatre experiences are written by actress and voice artist Debora Weston, whose film credits include Patriot Games, Thunderbirds, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Launching on Friday 11 August and running until Sunday 27 August 2023 and taking place within The Macallan’s open-sided marquee on the banks of the River Spey, guests can enjoy select drams of The Macallan single malt Scotch whisky throughout the two-hour performance.

The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey is brought to life through the talents of professional actresses and actors.

Guitarist Matthew McAllister

Guitarist Matthew McAllister said:

“It’s a privilege to perform at The Macallan Estate this summer, and I’m thrilled to share our artistic collaboration with guests visiting from near and far. Having performed around the world, The Macallan Estate is truly a location like no other. The tranquil hills of Speyside have inspired me to curate the musical score for The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey, which pays tribute to bygone days in this beautiful part of Scotland.”

Stuart Cassells, General Manager at The Macallan Estate: “As the only single malt Scotch whisky distillery to tell the story of our rich heritage through live performance, we’re proud to unveil a new opportunity for guests to join us this summer, and learn more about the characters who have informed The Macallan’s  past and played a significant role in shaping our future.

“The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey is an exciting new event in our calendar, marrying the tales of quiet heroism and pioneering spirit for which The Macallan is renowned, with music and storytelling by the incredibly talented Matthew McAllister.”

Located amidst breath-taking natural landscapes in the heart of Speyside, The Macallan Estate is a world-leading hospitality destination.

Home to every bottle of The Macallan’s incomparable single malt whisky, the serene countryside estate offers much more than just a whisky experience, with fine-dining, private shopping and fishing all available on site.

The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey is priced at £100 per guest and is available to book for a limited period, running on select dates from Friday 11 August until Sunday 27 August 2023. All experiences must be booked in advance with The Macallan Estate.

To book The Macallan Reflections on The River Spey, visit HERE .

For further information, visit https://www.themacallan.com/ or contact estate@themacallan.com.

The Spey

About The Macallan 

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

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

Crafted without compromise. Please savour The Macallan responsibly. 

About Janet Harbinson

Janet Harbinson, known as ‘Nettie’ is a remarkable figure in The Macallan’s history. In 1918, just months before the end of the First World War, her beloved husband Alexander, who had been running the distillery at the time, sadly passed.

Nettie was highly committed to the local community and following his death, she assumed control of the distillery as it was the best way to secure The Macallan for its employees and help the community. Through her passion and care for those around her and her dedication to craftsmanship, she kept the business afloat and helped to rebuild the local area.

Without setting out to do so, she also crafted The Macallan Fine & Rare 1926, which achieved legendary status after it fetched £1.5m at Sotheby’s in 2019. Several years on, it continues to be the world’s most valuable bottle of wine or spirit ever sold at auction. Its very existence is a direct legacy of Janet Harbinson’s commitment to doing the right thing for her family, the community and The Macallan.

About Matthew McAllister

Widely regarded as one of the most exciting and talented guitarists in Europe, Matthew has been delighting audiences worldwide with his insightful performances and effortless presentation for more than a decade.

Matthew has performed at major venues around the world such as The Concertgebouw Amsterdam; The Purcell Room & St Martin in the Fields, London; Teatro Britanico, Lima; The Sage, Gateshead; Cenart, Mexico City; Caesars Palace, Las Vegas; Eugene O’Neil Theater in San Jose, and Dom Armije in Sarajevo. Matthew has toured extensively throughout North and South America, Canada, Europe and Asia both as a soloist and chamber musician, and has also produced an extensive discography with Baros Records.

Matthew holds the posts of Classical Guitar Lecturer at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and is the Director of the Classical Guitar Retreat.

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.