Highland Park adds new whisky to award-winning Cask Strength series 

— Cask Strength Release No.3 celebrates the harmonious balance of traditional whisky-making and modern flavour exploration — 

EMBARGOED: LONDON, UK – 01.09.2022: Orkney-based single malt distillery, Highland Park, has added a new whisky to its award-winning Cask Strength series, designed to challenge whisky drinking norms. The range strikes a harmonious balance between the traditional whisky-making craft, while encouraging flavour exploration to suit individual palates.

Launching as a permanent addition to the Highland Park range and created using the traditional ‘straight from the cask’ method, Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.3 is whisky in its purest form. No water is added after maturation which delivers a robust and intense flavour with a greater depth of finish.

Cask Strength Release No.3 uses whisky made with a higher proportion of Orkney peated malt resulting in a smokier style compared to the other single malts in the series. It has been matured predominantly in first-fill sherry seasoned American and European oak casks and a small quantity of refill casks. The result is an extraordinary combination of contrasting yet perfectly balanced flavours of charred oak, tropical fruits, aniseed, heather honey, vanilla cream, aromatic violet, sponge cake and peat smoke.

Highland Park, Master Whisky Maker, Gordon Motion champions this style of whisky as an opportunity for flavour discovery. Gordon explains:

“With Cask Strength, you are at a great place to start exploring the taste that best suits your palate by adding water, ice or your preferred serve. It’s your whisky and should be enjoyed your way. 

“For me, a Cask Strength whisky really celebrates that balance between old and new and I look forward to seeing how consumers enjoy the new whisky.”

The Highland Park Cask Strength series, a prestige offering within the portfolio, has been created by bringing together dozens of single casks. The whisky is at full strength, straight from the cask, and has only been gently filtered before bottling.

The releases within the Cask Strength range share the same underlying character but with each batch featuring different flavours coming to the fore based on the cask make-up. The ABV will also vary from batch to batch.

Release No.1 was matured predominantly in sherry seasoned American oak casks of different ages, delivering a harmonious contrast of flavours of toffee, heather, honey, and peat smoke. Release No. 2 was matured predominantly in sherry seasoned European and American oak casks and a small quantity of ex-bourbon casks, producing tastes of pear and almond cake, toasted oak, liquorice, cracked black pepper, aromatic peat.

Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.3 will become available globally from 1^st September across specialist whisky retailers, including The Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt, and The Whisky Shop, and from the Highland Park online shop, distillery, and Albert Street store in Orkney. The UK RRP is £65.

About Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.3:

UK RRP: £65

ABV: 64.1%

Volume: Available in 70cl and 75cl depending on region

Tasting notes:

Appearance: Natural deep golden

Taste: Lightly charred oak, honey-glazed lemons, crushed aniseed, ripe mango, cloudy heather honey, whipped vanilla cream, aromatic violet, pink grapefruit zest, rich sponge cake, smouldering peat smoke. 

Key differences between the whiskies of the Cask Strength series: 

Cask Strength Release No.3:

Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.3 has been matured predominantly in first-fill sherry seasoned American and European oak casks and a small quantity of refill casks using a higher proportion of Orkney peated malt for a smokier flavour profile. 

Cask Strength Release No.2:

Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.2 was matured predominantly in sherry seasoned European and American oak casks and a small quantity of ex-bourbon casks. Which delivered tastes of pear and almond cake, toasted oak, liquorice, cracked black pepper, aromatic peat. 

Cask Strength Release No.1:

Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.1 was matured predominantly in sherry seasoned American oak casks of different ages which delivered tastes of toffee, heather honey, nutmeg, citrus fruits and aromatic peat smoke.

Recent awards:

• Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Gold medal at the Scotch Whisky Masters
• Scored 95/100 as a finalist at the 2021 Ultimate Spirits Challenge

What is a cask strength whisky?

Most whiskies are diluted with water prior to bottling to reduce the alcohol-by-volume (ABV) strength, typically to 40% or 43%. Cask strength is a term used to describe a whisky that has not had water added when it is bottled after maturation in casks. Highland Park Cask Strength Release No.1 and Cask Strength Release No.2 has been created by bringing together dozens of single casks. The whisky is at full strength, straight from the cask and has only been gently filtered prior to bottling.

About Highland Park:

We’ve been crafting our award-winning whisky at the Highland Park Distillery in Kirkwall, Orkney since 1798. Now, 224 years later, we are one of the ten oldest working distilleries in Scotland. Age, experience and respect for tradition may define our whisky but it’s Orkney that differentiates it. Something magic happens here and we call it A Wild Harmony.

It’s not just the influence of the finest sherry seasoned oak casks on our whisky at it matures, it’s the salty sea winds that batter Orkney’s rugged coastlines, the intensely floral character of our treeless but heather-rich peat, and the fiercely independent Viking spirit that drives us. These are the elements that go, untamed, into our whisky-making to create a wild harmony of sweet-smoky flavours that is, uniquely, Highland Park. www.highlandparkwhisky.com

Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® | Class of 2022 Inductees

Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® To Induct 

Six New Members In September 

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® will induct six individuals into its elite ranks next month, including two distillery founders, influential lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, a groundbreaking industry veteran and the acclaimed grandson of a Bourbon baron.

The Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award will be bestowed on the late Stephen Francis Thompson, founder and president of Kentucky Artisan Distillery, who unexpectedly died in 2021 after an accident. He was 79 years old.

“Since we lost the past two years to COVID-19, this is officially the 20th anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, whiskey’s most spirited honor,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, which founded the Hall of Fame in 2001.

“Congratulations to this year’s esteemed class which celebrates the visionaries, artisans and partners that have made Kentucky Bourbon – and our beloved Commonwealth – the gold standard of American whiskey. And, on behalf of our industry, a heartfelt thank you.”

This year’s inductees are, in alphabetical order (full bios, as provided by each inductee, are attached via the below link:

·     Retiring Rep. D. Chad McCoy, R-Bardstown, Majority Whip, Kentucky House of Representatives, two-time recipient of the KDA’s “100 Proof” award for public service and champion of several landmark pieces of legislation.

·     The late Stephen Francis Thompson, Founder and President, Kentucky Artisan Distillery (Lifetime Achievement Award), former president of Brown-Forman Distilleries and a pioneering resource for craft distilleries across the country.

·     Julian P. Van Winkle, III, President, Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery, heralded grandson of Bourbon legend Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle, creator of the ultra-aged premium Pappy Van Winkle brand and the very first James Beard winner from Kentucky, as well as numerous other accolades.

·     Andrea Marie Wilson, distinguished industry veteran, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Master of Maturation at Michter’s Distillery, and in 2009, the first woman to chair the KDA Board of Directors.

·     Retiring U.S. Rep. John Yarmuth, D-Louisville, Co-Founder of the Congressional Bourbon Caucus and Chair of the House Budget Committee who helped lead a permanent reduction on the federal excise tax on distillers among other key measures.

·     Kaveh Zamanian, Founder, Whiskey Maker and CEO, Rabbit Hole Distillery, left Iran in 1979 during the revolution and founded Rabbit Hole in 2012. He blends the immigrant whiskey maker tradition with time-honored methods, diverse perspectives and modernist aesthetics.

The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame® recognizes individuals and organizations that have made a significant and transformational impact on Bourbon’s stature, growth and awareness. It is the highest honor given by the signature industry.

The invitation-only ceremony will be held Sept. 13 at My Old Kentucky Home state park in Bardstown, Ky., one of the state’s most revered historic sites. It is held annually in conjunction with the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, which runs Sept. 16-18 in Bardstown.

Following the induction ceremony, there will be an exclusive reception sponsored by Independent Stave Company, a KDA “Champion” level industry member. ISC President & CEO Brad Boswell and his father, John, are both Hall of Fame members.

The two-year break due to the pandemic allowed the KDA to evaluate its Hall of Fame processes and protocols, Gregory said. The prestigious event is known for its intimate celebration of the industry’s most revered champions and attracts dignitaries from around the world.

This year, for the first time ever, a blue-ribbon committee of renowned Hall of Fame members reviewed and selected inductees. Candidates are nominated each year by the KDA and its member distilleries in three categories: Industry, Roll of Honor and Lifetime Achievement.

The selection committee includes all living recipients of the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award: Jimmy Russell, Master Distiller of Wild Turkey; Bill Samuels, Jr., Chairman Emeritus of Maker’s Mark; Max Shapira, Executive Chairman of Heaven Hill Brands and Even Kulsveen, Executive Director of Willett Distillery.

Also serving were Kevin Smith, Chairman of the KDA Board of Directors and Vice President of Kentucky Bourbon Affairs for Beam Suntory; Chris Morris, Governor of the Order of the Writ – Spirit of Kentucky Bourbon Society and Vice President and Master Distiller at Brown-Forman Corp.; and noted author Dixie Hibbs of Bardstown, who was appointed by the KDA President.

The KDA also commissioned glassblowing artist Brook Forrest White, Jr., of Flame Run in Louisville to craft unique and contemporary awards that incorporate Bourbon-inspired motifs such as amber colors, oak, copper and water.

A student of the late famed glass artist Stephen Rolfe Powell at Centre College in Danville, Ky., White’s work has been recognized nationally, including at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and at several distilleries in Kentucky.

Bourbon is one of Kentucky’s most treasured industries, a booming $9 billion economic and tourism engine sustaining more than 22,500 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1.23 billion each year, over $285 million in local and state taxes and $1.8 billion in federal alcohol taxes.

A key export, the iconic industry is currently in the middle of a $5.2 billion building boom, from innovative new tourism experiences to expanded production facilities, bottling centers and aging warehouses, all to meet the growing global thirst for Kentucky Bourbon.

Bourbon production has skyrocketed more than 435% since the turn of the century.

Kentucky now boasts more than 10.3 million barrels of Bourbon aging in warehouses across the Bluegrass, the most in its revered distilling history. Distillers filled more than 2.4 million barrels in 2020 alone, the third year in a row that production topped the two million mark.

“We look forward to seeing all our living legends next month and celebrating the best of the best of our historic industry and toasting our success,” Gregory said. “Thanks to our partners at Independent Stave Company and our distinguished members.”

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact KDA President Eric Gregory at eric@kybourbon.com.

Bios, as provided by each inductee, are below in alphabetical order:

Rep. D. Chad McCoy~ Late Stephen Francis Thompson + Red ~ Julian P. Van Winkle, III~ Andrea Marie Wilson ~ U.S. Rep. John Yarmuth ~ Kaveh Zamanian

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the historic voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces 90 percent of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft and treasured economic engine. 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. 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.

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™, KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME®, ORDER OF THE WRIT®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TALES®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL WELCOME CENTER®,, URBAN BOURBON TRAIL® and THE PROOF IS HERE® are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. 

Please enjoy Bourbon like a true Kentuckian – Responsibly

THE WORLD’S RAREST JAPANESE WHISKY REDISCOVERED

The World’s Rarest Japanese Whisky, Shirakawa 1958 Single Malt Japanese Whisky from Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd will be released and distributed worldwide by Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd from 13th September 2022.

Shirakawa 1958 is a single malt whisky from the lost Japanese distillery, Shirakawa, which was located 200km North of Tokyo, Japan. The whisky produced was rumoured to be exquisite, but destined only for blending and never to be captured as a single malt until now, with a collaboration between Tomatin Distillery and Takara Shuzo. This remarkable and incredibly rare expression will be the only official single malt bottling from Shirakawa Distillery; limited to 1,500 bottles globally and is the earliest single vintage Japanese whisky ever bottled.

“There are no known examples of Japanese Whisky claiming to be from a Single Vintage that predate Shirakawa 1958,” confirms Stefan van Eycken, the pre-eminent authority on the world of Japanese whisky and distilling. “Even though Shirakawa Distillery was one of the pioneers of malt whisky making in Japan, the liquid was never officially available as a single malt. This limited 1,500 bottle release will see the Japanese Whisky category, one of the most sought-after categories of spirit in the world, continue to grow from strength to strength”

The Shirakawa Distillery was built in the Fukushima Prefecture, in 1939 by Daikoku Budoshu and purchased by Takara Shuzo in 1947. Operating for nearly six and a half decades, it produced malt whisky between 1951 – 1969, one of the first distilleries in Japan to do so. The vast majority of the whisky produced was used in Takara Shuzo’s flagship ‘King’ blended whisky brand. The Shirakawa Distillery then was demolished in 2003.

Stephen Bremner, Managing Director of Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd. had become intrigued by parent company Takara Shuzo’s history of malt whisky production in Japan and why so little was known about this aspect of the company’s history. Determined to uncover more, he pieced together anecdotal information from previous employees about whisky production and searched for long lost documents that might shed some light on Shirakawa’s single malt Japanese whisky making past.

The final remaining parcel was identified in Takara Shuzo’s Kurokabegura in 2019. The liquid had been distilled in 1958, aged in cask, then transferred to ceramic jars at the distillery. When Shirakawa closed, it was put into stainless steel tanks at Takara Shuzo’s factory in Kyushu where it lay untouched until now.

“Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd had been bought by Takara Shuzo in 1986 and I became fascinated by the story of Shirakawa and its history of whisky production. There had never been an official single malt bottling, and the distillery had long gone, but I couldn’t help wondering what if a part of liquid history lay unearthed. After several in-depth discussions with colleagues at Takara Shuzo the last remaining parcel of Shirakawa was identified in 2019. When I discovered that the last remaining stock was distilled in 1958, I was astounded! It was a genuine WOW moment as I realised very quickly that what we were dealing with was extremely rare.” Explains Stephen Bremner, Managing Director of Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd.

This rare discovery brought further mystery both for the liquid unearthed, as with the history of the distillery itself. The precise age of the whisky cannot be specified; although it is clear the liquid was matured in oak casks, the type of cask and length of maturation remains unknown to this day. Though production details are unclear, it is from a time when the distillery used predominantly Japanese malted barley and Mizunara oak casks.

The 1958 vintage – 49% ABV – bottled by Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd in Japan, will exist as the only official single malt ever to be released from Shirakawa Distillery and the earliest known single vintage Japanese whisky ever bottled.

THE TASTE OF LIQUID HISTORY

Award winning and internationally acclaimed whisky writer Dave Broom presents his tasting notes for Shirakawa 1958 Single Malt Japanese Whisky from Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd:

Nose: Resinous, slight dry earth, dried citrus peels, a hint of wax. Aromatic. A drop of water makes it more vibrant and also shows clear maturity as well as a hint of incense. Exotic.
Palate: The palate is expansive with a succulent texture and hints of fragrant grass. Fruits emerge in the middle. Layered, spiced, and dry. Water brings out ash from an incense burner, a satisfying mouthfeel and surprisingly perky acidity.
Finish: Nicely balanced and persistent on the finish which picks up mint flavouring and makes it more camphor-like.

SHIRAKAWA 1958 FROM TARAKA SHUZO CO.,LTD

1,500 (70cl) bottles will be available from 13th September 2022 via tomatindistillery.com and selected retail partners worldwide including Harrods, Berry Bros, The Whisky Exchange & Royal Mile Whiskies
RRP: £25,000

The only UK consumer tasting of Shirakawa 1958 will take place at The Whisky Exchange Whisky Show at 12:45pm on Saturday 1 October 2022. Tickets for the masterclass can be purchased from 24th August 2022 via www.whiskyshow.com/london/, guests must also hold a Saturday ticket for the show in order to attend.

Shirakawa Distillery

Shirakawa Distillery was built in the Fukushima Prefecture, 200km North of Tokyo, in 1939 by Daikoku Budoshu and demolished in 2003. Even though Shirakawa Distillery was one of the pioneers of malt whisky making in Japan, it was never officially available as a single malt. That category didn’t take off in Japan until the mid-80s, and by that time, Takara Shuzo’s focus lay elsewhere. The land where Shirakawa Distillery once sat was subsequently gifted by Takara Shuzo in 2011 to build emergency housing to accommodate the locals who had been displaced by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.

Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd

In 1897 Tomatin was nothing but an isolated and idyllic setting for a distillery. With the new Highland Railway came opportunities, and so the distillery was born. Since then, the distillery has been at the heart of the community and the community at the heart of the distillery. Today, the Tomatin Legacy lives on in the form of an exciting and varied range of Highland Single Malt Scotch Whiskies (Tomatin Single Malt & Cù Bòcan Single Malt).

Tomatin Single Malt exudes luxury among its batch releases and prestige limited editions. The Private Cask Program presents an esteemed collection of hand-selected single casks, truly remarkable expressions of the versatile spirit which Tomatin Single Malt offers. All vintages will be delivered within a crystal decanter with beautiful gold collar and stopper, a fully customisable label, bespoke engraving and cased within a contrasting textured wood and high gloss wooden box.

https://tomatin.com
Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd

Takara Shuzo Co.,Ltd produces sake, other alcoholic beverages, and seasonings. This division comprises the original business; the holding company including it was formed in 2001 as Takara Holdings Inc. Takara Shuzo, one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of traditional alcoholic beverages since sake brewing operations in 1842, acquired Tomatin Distillery Co. Ltd in 1986.

In 1951, Takara Shuzo became one of only a handful of distilleries in Japan to produce malt whisky and it continued to do so uninterrupted until 1969. The vast majority of this malt whisky used in Takara Shuzo’s flagship ‘King’ blended whisky brand. https://www.takarashuzo.co.jp/english/

Radico Khaitan Launches a New Whisky Heritage Collection “ROYAL RANTHAMBORE” in the United States

Award Winning from the Spiritz Achiever’s Award 2021 for Product Debut of the Year

United States, July 6, 2022 – Radico Khaitan Ltd. (NSE: Radico), is India’s largest distillery, with over 75 years of distillation experience, launches the ‘Royal Ranthambore Heritage Collection-Royal Crafted Whisky’ in the United States. The product is in distribution and is scheduled to be available in stores and online for purchase.

Royal Ranthambore is a blended whisky, inspired by the Ranthambore’s land of majestic tigers and legendary kings, reflecting the “Timeless Valour”. The blended whisky is crafted with various bespoke blended malt scotches from different geographical regions, made from 100% malted barley and blended with oak infused Indian Grain Neutral Spirit to harmonise the Royal blend.

According to the Sanjeev Banga, President- International Business of Radico Khaitan, “the key to our success is our Rampur distillery, which has earned its prestigious reputation as Asia’s top distillery in producing a wide range of premium beverage alcohol products. Today, we are proud to introduce one of our finest whiskies, The Royal Ranthambore, an add-on to our luxury collection for the US market.”

‘The highly sophisticated and knowledgeable whisky community is willing to experiment and we are very confident they would like Royal Ranthambore – a premium whisky that is palatable and versatile for all occasions” said Kunal Madan, the Vice President of Radico Khaitan, International Business.

How to taste the Royal Ranthambore:

Eye test: colour – golden hue, with a tint of amber.

Smell test: nose – warm and intense orchard fruit aromas, followed by sweet floral notes and hints of citrus. Subtle forest honey and spicy dried fruits at the end leave a lasting trail.

Taste with sophistication: palate – Allow a sip to linger in the mouth and the warmth of your palate entices out a flurry of rich flavours like English muffins, melted butter, plum cakes, apple pie, cocoa and a hint of spicy peaty smoke in the background.

The finish – A long finish that smoothes out with time.

To learn more, join our Royal Ranthambore community. Follow for product distribution and availability in stores and online for purchase, announcements, tastings, events, and news.

Follow: Instagram, Facebook

#RoyalRanthamboreWhisky

Learn more: https://www.royalranthambore.com

About Radico Khaitan Ltd.

The company’s brand portfolio includes many top adult beverages such as the Rampur Indian Single Malt Whiskies (Rampur Select, Rampur Double Cask and Rampur Asava) Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, and the newest member, the Royal Ranthambore.

ARDBEG’S FIRST GRAPHIC NOVEL WILL EXPLORE ‘OUT OF THIS WORLD’

WHISKY TALES

<Sci-fi anthology is inspired by distillery’s smoky single malts>

In September 2022, Islay single malt distillery Ardbeg will take its first foray into the world of graphic novels, with the launch of Planet Ardbeg, a 40-page sci-fi anthology created by three cutting-edge artists. This limited edition publication is inspired by the unique flavours and ‘origin stories’ of three Ardbeg expressions – Ardbeg Ten Years Old, Ardbeg An Oa, and Ardbeg Wee Beastie – and features cameos from some of the Islay distillery’s best-known characters.

Planet Ardbeg was conceived by award-winning New York cartoonist Ronald Wimberly in collaboration with fellow artists Emma Ríos and Sanford Greene, each bringing their own distinctive voice and style to the project. Using Ardbeg’s core range as their creative launchpad, together they have produced a triptych of fantastical tales as bold and unique as Ardbeg itself.

“Guardians of Oa” by Sanford Greene, which draws its influence from the rounded balance and smoky power of Ardbeg An Oa, is an action-packed epic about a copper city coming under attack from a monstrous creature. Meanwhile, Ronald Wimberley’s “The Best Laid Schemes”, which channels the feisty and formidable flavours of Ardbeg Wee Beastie, is a fast-paced neo-western featuring giant botanicals and even bigger beasts. Finally, “Take it with a Grain of Sand” by Emma Ríos, captures the complex peaty essence of Ardbeg Ten Years Old, and tells of a mystical quest through a land lost to time.

Ronald Wimberly, creative director on Planet Ardbeg, said: “When we first started thinking about making this graphic novel, I thought about Planet Ardbeg as a time machine. Time is important with whisky, and with Ardbeg An Oa, Ardbeg Wee Beastie and Ardbeg Ten Years Old what you’re talking about is three different time experiences.”

Colin Gordon, Ardbeg’s Distillery Manager, said: “It’s amazing to see the different smoky characteristics of these whiskies brought to life in graphic novel form. Each story in Planet Ardbeg is brimming with imagination and creativity. It’s a must-read for Ardbeg fans everywhere.”

Planet Ardbeg will be available to buy at the Ardbeg Distillery Visitor Centre, in selected comic book shops, as well as via Ardbeg.com in certain markets. A digital version will also be available exclusively for members of the Ardbeg Committee to read for free at;

www.ardbeg.com/planet-ardbeg

There will also be a full Planet Ardbeg campaign in the UK taking place in October 2022 so that consumers can explore and enjoy it in person – more details on the campaign will be revealed in the coming weeks.

The Ardbeg Committee comprises more than 160,000 Ardbeg followers worldwide. Committee Members receive exclusive benefits, including invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events. Anyone can join the Committee by signing up for free at ardbeg.com/committee.

For more information about Planet Ardbeg visit ardbeg.com

ardbeg.com

Follow us on:

Facebook: facebook.com/Ardbeg

Twitter: @Ardbeg

Instagram: @Ardbeg

 Ardbeg:

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

About the artists:

Ronald Wimberly, the creative director on this project, is an award-winning American cartoonist, designer and founder of LAAB, an annual art tabloid examining race, gender, identity and visual culture. He has published several graphic novels, as well as shorter works for The New Yorker, DC/ Vertigo, Nike, Marvel, and Dark Horse Comics.

Emma Ríos is a Spanish comic artist, writer and editor with an international presence in the comics industry. She has worked for some of the largest American comics publishers, including Marvel, Image, and Boom! Studios. Her artwork has also appeared in such titles as Runaways, Amazing Spider-Man, and Girl Comics.

Sanford Greene is an award-winning American comic illustrator whose work has been published by DC Comics, Dark Horse, Image Comics, and others. He is best known for his work on Bitter Root, a dark fantasy/action comic series set during the Harlem Renaissance, which is now being adapted into a major feature film. 

Planet Ardbeg retail info:

Planet Ardbeg will be stocked at a number of independent comic book shops and can be purchased online via the Ardbeg web store (see the link) in selected markets. It is priced at £8 in the UK and $10 in the US. A digital version is available free to all Ardbeg Committee members at www.ardbeg.com/planet-ardbeg

Ardbeg Committee:

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee. The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”. Today there are more than 160,000 members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 130 countries. Committee Members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings. Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events. The Committee, chaired by Jackie Thomson, is free to join at Ardbeg.com.

Awards:

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

The Glenmorangie Company:

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

Responsible Drinking:

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

2022 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the historic voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces 90 percent of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft and treasured economic engine. 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. 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.

WATERFORD DISTILLERY BEGINS BOTTLING THE FIRST PEATED IRISH WHISKY MADE FROM IRISH BARLEY

Waterford Whisky has bottled the first Irish-peated whiskies in generations: Peated: Fenniscourt and Peated: Ballybanon

The products are two new bottlings in Waterford Distillery’s “Arcadian Farm Origins”, which explore the old ways of farming and whisky in search of real rarity and intense flavours

Both peated whiskies combine 100% Irish peat and Irish-grown barley – celebrating a return to traditional ways and flavours of Irish whisky production from over a century ago

24^th August 2022: Waterford Distillery has bottled the first modern Irish Peated whiskies in generations – Peated: Fenniscourt and Peated: Ballybanon, from barley grown on two distinct Single Farm Origins.

The new single malt whiskies use both Irish peat and Irish-grown barley – the first distillery in generations to do so – as part of Waterford’s quest to unearth whisky’s most natural flavours and commitment to Irish-only ingredients.

Both bottlings are the latest addition to Waterford’s Arcadian Farm Origins, which represent real rarity in whisky due to the scarcity of the raw materials. This range – which include Ireland’s only Organic whisky and the world’s first Biodynamic whisky – reimagines the old ways of production in the pursuit of flavour intensity over yield imperatives.

The arrival of the new Irish peat bottlings, spearheaded by CEO Mark Reynier, has been in development since 2017, though kept a secret until this year. The approach included selecting two Single Farm Origin barleys – from distinctive terroirs – to see if the flavour profiles could stand up to the smokiness of peat.

In true Waterford Whisky style, the approach needed a radical approach to ensure its Irish provenance. Irish peat has been redundant in whisky production since the turn of the 20^th century, which meant all knowledge of how to use Irish peat had passed out of memory. Therefore the project involved ambitious collaborators, as well as trial and error in sourcing the appropriate peat sources with the moisture levels appropriate for whisky production.

Waterford Distillery sourced small amounts of peat cut from County Kildare, and worked alongside their established malting partner, Minch Malt. Because there was no infrastructure in Ireland capable of peating barley, Waterford Distillery needed to ship small amounts of Irish peat and Irish barley to Scotland, iconic home to peated malt whisky, for the kilning process to take place – before being shipped back to Waterford for distillation.

Providing drinkers with full product transparency and traceability is Waterford Whisky’s trademark. Through TEIREOIR CODE technology, available on each and every bottle, drinkers can follow how the barley was harvested, stored, malted, and distilled – guaranteeing the integrity of each Single Farm Origin.

Neil Conway, Head Brewer of Waterford Distillery – explains: “Peat was a core part of Ireland’s heritage, whether that be commercially, for heating homes in rural countryside, or for the production of whisky. It was the ancient fuel source.

“At Waterford Distillery, since we place barley – the source of whisky’s natural flavour – at the centre of our universe, we are gathering the widest array of pure and natural flavour components. It felt only natural to nod to our cultural heritage, preserve old ways, and explore the peating process with modern varieties.

“Malt whisky is already one of the most complex spirits in the world because it is made from barley – the best in the world coming from Ireland. So combining this with ancient peated methods that are no longer widely available in Ireland, added intriguing new layers of flavour complexity. Cultivating Irish peat and learning how the impact of moisture levels can determine the whiskies smokiness is just another step to quest to unearth whisky’s most natural flavours.

“Of course it made little financial sense, but we did it for taste – and taste alone. Once we’d tried it, it was just too good to ignore and we thought that people really need to try this.”

Tasting notes by Ned Gahan, Head Distiller at Waterford

While the Peated: Ballybanon has a stronger, smokier flavour and with an intense finish, the Peated Fenniscourt is a more subtle smokiness, with a softer finish.

PEATED: BALLYBANNON: Matured in a combination of 39% first-fill US oak; 21% virgin US oak; 21% Premium French oak; and 19% Vin Doux Naturel casks.

Colour: light gold with everlasting oils.

Nose: soft peat, almonds, lavender honey,

a seaside escape, driftwood fire smoke,

green apples.

Taste: peat kick, very chewable, BBQ fish by the

sea, buttery, samphire, warm apple and almond tart with honeycomb ice cream, endless finish.

PEATED: FENNISCOURT Matured in a combination of 37% first-fill US oak; 19% virgin US oak; 20% Premium French oak; and 24% Vin Doux Naturel.

Colour: rich buttermilk with fabulous oils.

Nose: turf! Saltiness, pear skin, woodland moss,

dried thyme, malted biscuits, marzipan,

baked banana.

Taste: dry rope, barbecue, bog myrtle, white  pepper, meaty; soft, earthy warmth, a dry finish in gentle waves.

About Waterford Distillery 

Waterford Whisky is on a quest to unearth whisky’s most natural flavours. Influenced by the world’s greatest winemakers, Waterford Distillery obsessively brings the same intellectual drive, methodology and rigour to single malt whisky.

Using 100% Irish barley, widely considered to be the world’s finest, its Single Farm Origin series is an uber-provenance range of limited edition natural whiskies that explore Irish terroir one farm, once place, at a time. They are expressions of precision and rarity, showcasing barley flavours derived from individual Irish farms and harvests. The distillery’s ultimate aim is that these component single malts come together to create the world’s most unique, complex and profound whisky.

For more information, visit https://waterfordwhisky.com/

THE MACALLAN AND BENTLEY MOTORS UNVEIL PROTOTYPE FOR THE MACALLAN HORIZON: WHERE PURPOSE MEETS INNOVATION, CRAFTSMANSHIP AND BEAUTY

Unique concept of first product collaboration is revealed

The Macallan, together with its luxury automotive partner Bentley Motors, has revealed the remarkable vision and design of The Macallan Horizon, the inspirational and highly innovative limited edition single malt whisky in development by the brands.

The prototype of The Macallan Horizon, which will be available as a whisky product from summer 2023, fuses both traditional craftsmanship and innovative materials, with cutting edge technology to create an exclusive horizontal design. It was visualised following extensive collaboration between The Macallan and Bentley Motors.

In homage to The Macallan’s acclaimed Six Pillars – the foundation stones of the brand that account for its distinctive single malt whiskies – The Macallan Horizon concept product incorporates six unique upcycled, repurposed or ethically sourced materials which are integral to The Macallan and Bentley Motors.

Among them are recycled copper from the disused curiously small spirit stills which were located within The Macallan’s former Distillery; aluminium recovered from the Bentley Motors manufacturing process; recycled wood; recyclable glass and carbon neutral leather, locally sourced and also used in the recently unveiled Bentley Mulliner grand tourer.

The final component is the very special single malt whisky being created for The Macallan Horizon. The Macallan Master Whisky Maker Kirsteen Campbell developed the flavour profile for the whisky following a visit to Bentley Motors in Crewe, where she observed first hand their shared passion for creativity, craftsmanship and innovation.

Together, the six key materials, the majority of which have been sourced and produced locally in Scotland and the UK, form a unique concept that defies the traditional vertical aesthetic of a whisky bottle and reflects the horizontal trajectory of the automotive world, pushing the boundaries and the art of the possible.

The visionary design also features a glass bottle with an extraordinary 180-degree twist, representing the mastery of space and time achieved by The Macallan and Bentley Motors in creating the prototype, which has no standing base.

Jaume Ferras, Global Creative Director for The Macallan, comments: “Taking inspiration from the automotive industry, we are showcasing our creative vision and concept development of The Macallan Horizon, which is among the most unique projects we have embarked on in our almost 200-year history.

“Our collaboration with Bentley Motors and the knowledge exchange we have undertaken as a result has inspired us to see things very differently. In the spirits world, everything is upright, such as our stills and our bottles. When we looked at the horizontal direction pursued by Bentley Motors as part of the automotive industry, it made us consider if and how we could adapt this format for whisky, which ultimately requires to be poured.

“I am incredibly proud of the beautiful design we have created together for The Macallan Horizon and the unique materials we are incorporating. It simply would not be possible without the incomparable craftsmanship and creativity for which The Macallan and Bentley Motors are renowned and is the embodiment of the uncompromised excellence pursued by The Macallan since 1824.”

Bentley’s Product and Lifestyle Design Manager, Chris Cooke, comments: “Our prototype for The Macallan Horizon is truly pioneering in both its design and use of materials. It’s a fusion of the sharply defined yet curvaceous Bentley design DNA, The Macallan’s innovation and recycled materials from both iconic British brands. The form of the design has allowed us to almost treat light as another material in itself, and the interplay between light and the wood, aluminium and copper materials is extraordinary. In being both an object of beauty in itself and demonstrating such innovation, it’s a representation of what’s coming next from our partnership.”

The Macallan and Bentley Motors launched their global brand partnership in July 2021. United by a dedication to craftsmanship, creativity, innovation and sustainability, both brands have committed to share learnings from their respective industries while continuing to pursue the uncompromised excellence for which they are renowned.

Information regarding pricing and availability of The Macallan Horizon single malt whisky will be shared closer to its release on www.themacallan.com and www.bentleymotors.com

Crafted without compromise. Please savour The Macallan responsibly. Do not drink and drive.

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 Bentley Motors

Bentley Motors is the most sought-after luxury car brand in the world. The company’s headquarters in Crewe is home to all of its operations including design, R&D, engineering, and production of the company’s five model lines: Continental GT, Continental GTC, Flying Spur, Bentayga and Bentayga EWB. The combination of fine craftsmanship, using skills that have been handed down through generations, alongside engineering expertise and cutting-edge technology is unique to UK luxury car brands such as Bentley. It is also an example of high-value British manufacturing at its best. Bentley employs around 4,000 people at Crewe.

Kentucky Bourbon Benefits Top $1 Million 

For Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief

FRANKFORT, Ky. – With two days left to go, the Kentucky Bourbon Benefit online auction of rare and vintage bottles, exclusive private barrel selections and unique tourism and tasting offerings today topped its initial goal of $1 million.

“The tremendous outpouring of support from Bourbon distilleries, fans and enthusiasts is a humbling example of how our signature industry gives back to fellow Kentuckians and local communities,” said Eric Gregory, president of the non-profit Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

“These funds will go a long way in helping our neighbors in Eastern Kentucky rebuild their lives, homes and businesses,” he said. “With more than 500 lots, including several ‘Buy It Now’ bottles, there’s something for every budget. We hope everyone digs deep and bids often.”

The 10-day online auction runs until 11 p.m. EST on Sunday, Aug. 21.

Go to www.kybourbonbenefit.com to view auction items and bid.

The auction is sponsored and coordinated by the KDA, the Bourbon Crusaders charitable organization and Bourbon curator Fred Minnick. Westport Whiskey & Wine in Louisville is coordinating collection and distribution of donated items.

All proceeds will go directly to the state’s official Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund to assist those impacted by flooding. The website to learn more or make a donation is https://secure.kentucky.gov/FormServices/Finance/EKYFloodRelief.

“It’s thrilling to be a part of the Bourbon community that comes together to help the folks in Eastern Kentucky,” said Brian Haara with the Bourbon Crusaders. “We’re humbled by the support that donors and bidders have shown for the Kentucky Bourbon Benefit and are excited that we have raised over $1 million for flood relief.”

Minnick highlighted how integral the Bourbon industry is to both the Commonwealth’s storied history and current vibrancy.

“Born from the toil and grit of Kentuckians, Bourbon is run by people who deeply care about its home state. And its fans, ranging all over the world, look at Kentucky as the homeland for America’s Spirit. So, when disaster strikes here, distillers, collectors and fans unite to help,” Minnick said.

“This $1 million raised for Eastern Kentucky flood victims is a testament to their unyielding belief in our great Commonwealth, its people and the desire to help our neighbors rebuild. But we all know there’s more work to be done, and the Bourbon community will be here for it.”

Kentucky distillers also are sending tanker trucks and totes of fresh, potable water to Eastern Kentucky, along with contributing thousands of dollars to organizations and relief funds involved in the cleanup and recovery efforts.

Chris Zaborowski, owner of Westport Whiskey & Wine, said the auction demonstrates the entire industry’s commitment to the people of the Commonwealth.

“One million dollars in one week is  great! It is my hope that we can double it in the remaining hours as everyone scrambles to ensure their bid wins,” Zaborowski said. “The Bourbon community has the opportunity to show, once again, how proud we are all to be Kentuckians, and that helping our Eastern Kentucky neighbors exemplifies that when we stand united, no one falls.”

Gregory, of the KDA, said it’s an honor and obligation to step up and help fellow Kentuckians in times of need and assistance.

“Kentucky Bourbon’s roots run through the bedrock of both of our state’s agricultural and industrial sectors, and we proudly maintain more than 22,500 jobs, attract 1.5 million tourism visits annually and bring economic vibrancy to communities and cities across the state,” Gregory said.

“As a signature industry deeply intertwined in our state, it is important and entirely fitting that we give back. Thank you to everyone who is helping in the recovery and rebuilding efforts, and please continue praying for our beloved Commonwealth and its people.”

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association 

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the historic voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces 90% of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft and treasured economic engine. 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. 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. 

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT™, and BOURBON TRAIL™ are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Please savor our Bourbon and distilled spirits like a true Kentuckian – Responsibly.

About the Bourbon Crusaders

The Bourbon Crusaders are focused on leveraging our collective passion for Bourbon for a range of charitable purposes. Our 30 members represent a vast array of backgrounds, geographical locations, skills and relationships in the whiskey universe. Working together, alongside the generosity of our industry partners, we are honored to have our name associated with some of the most successful and memorable Kentucky charity events in recent history. 

Thanks to our annual distillery partners, the greater Bourbon industry, philanthropic individuals, and the amazing attendees of our events, since 2016 we have raised almost $4,500,000 for a variety of charities. Each of our lead partners trusted this small group in the name of doing good, and we are eternally grateful for those opportunities. Thanks to these special people for sharing our vision, we are able to continue raising money for those in need well into the future.

About Fred Minnick

Minnick continuously revives the age-old traditions and cultures of Bourbon and spirits through his media empire which includes the Bourbon Pursuit Podcast, DASH Radio’s “Minnick Minute” show and his Hermes Creative Awards Platinum-winning Podcast The Fred Minnick Show (PodcastOne), which features interviews with musicians, athletes and other celebrities including Peyton Manning, Ludacris, Lindsay Ell, Terry Bradshaw, Ashley McBryde and more. Minnick, a Louisville, KY-based father of two, is also an avid music fan, curating his annual Bourbon and Beyond festival which has welcomed acts like Lynn Kravitz, John Mayer and Stevie Nicks to its stages. He has authored several books including Wall Street Journal best-seller Bourbon Curious.

About Westport Whiskey & Wine

Officially opened on June 12, 2008, in Westport Village, Westport Whiskey & Wine is the ultimate local choice for hard-to-find wines, the finest whiskies, the best selection of tequila, and an excellent collection of craft and imported beers. This retail experience is one that allows you to taste and learn through many tastings with winemakers, master distillers and fellow enthusiasts because it has both a bar and a retail package license. With an inventory of more than 1,400 wines and a premium selection of spirits, the focus is on helping customers explore and appreciate wines and spirits from around the world at many different price points.

White Peak partners with Whisky Auctioneer

to auction bottles 1 – 12 of its inaugural release for Derbyshire charities

White Peak Distillery from Derbyshire is this month offering the last opportunity to own a bottle of its sell-out inaugural release of Wire Works Whisky via leading auction site Whisky Auctioneer.

Off the back of its hugely successful launch in February 2022, White Peak has partnered with Whisky Auctioneer, the world’s leading online auction platform to auction the first 12 individually-numbered bottles of Wire Works Whisky – Derbyshire’s first ever single malt. The auction will be live on whiskyauctioneer.com from the 26th August – 5th September with 100% of the proceeds going to Derbyshire charities.

White Peak released just over 5,000 numbered bottles of its long-awaited Wire Works Whisky single malt in February this year and the whisky received an extraordinary response from the Distillery’s loyal followers and supporters selling out both in stores and online in just a few hours.

The Distillery thoughtfully held back bottle numbers 1 – 12 of this first release, with a view to auctioning them later in the year to raise as much money as possible for two regional charities close to the Distillery’s heart.

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and The Peak District National Park Foundation are the two beneficiary charities who will receive the auction proceeds. The Distillery has previously worked with both on numerous fundraising bottlings and activities, including limited edition spirit releases and local environmental initiatives.

Whisky Auctioneer is working in partnership with White Peak to host the auction live on its global-reaching site, with bids being accepted from 26^th August. Those looking to bid for a bottle of the sell-out inaugural Wire Works Whisky single malt will have ten days until 5th September to place their bids. Potential bidders from across the globe will have the opportunity to place bids for one of the dozen bottles going on sale.

Claire Vaughan from White Peak said: “We are very excited to be bringing this auction to life through Whisky Auctioneer and support two important environmental charities in our local Derbyshire region. We strive to support our local communities, so when we first launched our inaugural single malt, we saw another great opportunity to again give something back. We hoped that the auction proceeds from these first 12 bottles would help contribute to some brilliant regional causes. We are delighted to partner with the Whisky Auctioneer team to make this happen for two fantastic local charity partners: Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and The Peak District National Park Foundation and can’t wait to see how much we can raise.”

Joe Wilson, head curator and spirits specialist at Whisky Auctioneer, said: “Excitement reverberated in the whisky community earlier this year with the release of the inaugural Wire Works Whisky from White Peak distillery. As such, we are delighted to now partner with the distillery to offer the only chance to acquire the first 12 numbered bottles.

“We are sure that these bottles will generate a lot of excitement from our global audience of whisky lovers, offering the exclusive opportunity to collect the very first output from such a young and vibrant distillery which is already held in great esteem. To ensure that as much is raised as possible from the auction, we have waived our selling fees and will donate the 10% buyer’s commission in addition to the hammer price raised.”

Emma Davenport, Partnerships Officer at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust said: “Derbyshire Wildlife Trust are delighted to receive half of the proceeds from the White Peak Distillery Whisky Auction. White Peak Distillery is a valued partner who is actively engaged in our mission to combat the climate and nature emergency; and achieve our vision of a Wilder Derbyshire. The proceeds from the auction will support our work to ensure 33% of Derbyshire is managed for wildlife by 2030, 1 million wild connections each year and 1 in 4 people acting for wildlife.”

Sarah Slowther, The Peak District National Park Foundation Manager said: “We are delighted to have been chosen by White Peak Distillery to receive donations from the auction. The donation will support our Connect Recover Thrive campaign which helps people to connect to the National Park and to experience the joy of nature, as well as helping landscapes and habitats to recover and thrive.”

The auction for 12 bottles of Wire Works Whisky goes live on Whisky Auctioneer on Friday 26^th August and will remain open for ten days until Monday 5th September. For further information, please visit: https://whiskylink.co/WireWorks-CharityAuction

For those wanting to visit White Peak, the Distillery is open Monday – Saturday for shop visitors, with tours available every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. For availability, timings and to book, please visit www.whitepeakdistillery.co.uk

About White Peak Distillery:

White Peak Distillery was founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Max & Claire Vaughan – both originally from Derbyshire – and continues to go from strength to strength, having won awards for its Distillery visitor experiences, as well as its new make and maturing single malt spirit.

Provenance, heritage and flavour are at the heart of the Distillery ethos and whisky-making process, and its home at the dramatic former Johnson & Nephew Wire Works is celebrated within the whisky brand. The Distillery’s woodland home on the banks of the River Derwent has a long history of innovation and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wire Works Whisky celebrates its rich homeland and the brewing heritage for which the region is so renowned. Every aspect of production and maturation is done onsite at the Distillery to ensure that the unique location and environment can play their part in the provenance of the final spirit.

The lightly-peated single malt whisky has been created using a combination of English un-peated and peated malted barley. A flavour-focused four-day fermentation uses a unique yeast Blend incorporating live yeast sourced from a local Peak District brewery.

The Distillery’s traditional, bespoke copper pot stills have been hand-built by McMillan and are run slowly to help produce the desired flavour profile. The final spirit is matured in a variety of carefully selected first fill oak casks, including ex-bourbon, virgin and STR (re-conditioned casks that have been shaved, toasted and re-charred), adding the final rich flavours to the whisky.

About Whisky Auctioneer

Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at auction. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Perth, Whisky Auctioneer utilises its expertise and knowledge combined with its auction platform to increase interest and passion in the whisky and spirits community.

Whisky Auctioneer endeavours to make the secondary market more accessible for buyers and sellers of any background and demographic, wherever in the world they are based. Its monthly global auctions feature the most comprehensive selection of old, rare and collectible whiskies and spirits online, and are unmatched in volume, variety of bottles offered and prices achieved. Whisky Auctioneer is passionate about connecting these bottles with those who share their passion and actively support their customers in their aims, whether consuming, collecting or investing.

In February 2021, the online auction house made history during the iconic sale of The Perfect Collection, when a bottle of The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare 60 Year Old sold for a hammer price of £1 million. This was the first time a single bottle of whisky has sold at an online-only auction for one million pounds.

Whisky Auctioneer became the first online auction house to sell a million-pound bottle and outperformed the nearest traditional auction house by 200% in value from spirits sales in 2020, showcasing the move that whisky collectors, investors and drinkers have already made online and firmly establishing their leading position within the modern secondary whisky market.

The business currently sees over 100,000 bids per month and has conducted deliveries to 74 countries across the globe. It also opened its first European base in Germany in 2020.

The business’ Founder, Iain McClune, was listed as ‘One to Watch’ in The Telegraph’s Most Ambitious Business Leaders 2020 programme.

About The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust:

They are a small charity with big ideas, uniquely positioned to lead change in Derbyshire. They are bold, grassroots-oriented and local whilst also being part of a strong, cohesive movement, the Wildlife Trusts.

Their goals by 2030 are as follows:

• 33% of Derbyshire will be managed for wildlife
• They will have at least 1 million wild connections each year
• 1 in 4 people will act for wildlife
• We will be carbon positive

For more information and to support The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust visit: www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/support

About The Peak District National Park Foundation:

An independent charity that helps to care for the Peak District National Park and to make it accessible for all.

Their vision is a National Park enjoyed and conserved by everyone, forever. It should be a vibrant, colourful, and safe home for the wildlife we all love. Their right to enjoy the National Park was hard won by ordinary folk. In that spirit, let’s fight to make it ever more accessible, for everyone to enjoy. But it is also unique and very fragile; we must always strive to keep it special. This is what they believe – and why they exist. With your support, they can start to make good things happen.