Scottish Whisky Entrepreneur Acquires Legendary Edinburgh Whisky Retailer 

Iain McClune, a Scottish whisky and spirits entrepreneur, enthusiast, and former Royal Mile Whiskies employee, has agreed the purchase of Scotland’s leading independent specialist whisky business, Royal Mile Whiskies.

Royal Mile Whiskies sits under the Dormant Distillery Company (DDC) alongside Drinkmonger and The Cigar Box.  They will all be retained, owned and operated in Scotland as part of the deal.

McClune, who worked at Royal Mile Whiskies for nearly a decade, becomes the second ex-employee to return as owner of the business.  The acquisition will be made through Vintage Saga, McClune’s investment company which includes Whisky Auctioneer, Wine Auctioneer, Rum Auctioneer and Bright Spirits.

Keir Sword, founder of DDC, commented:  “I am delighted to pass the business over to Iain who as a former employee shares my affection for the business and understands the importance of our fantastic team of drinks enthusiasts. As a former employee who myself returned to buy Royal Mile Whiskies it is greatly satisfying to pass the baton on to one of our own, who shares my vision for the business and I trust to carry on our values.

“The fact the business retains its independent spirit but at the same time gains the backing and support of the equally enthusiastic and talented team at Vintage Saga, makes it a very exciting time for DDC.

“They inherit not only the wonderful staff, but a very supportive bunch of suppliers and loyal customers to all of whom I send my huge thanks for their contribution over the past quarter century. I wish Iain, Arthur and all of the team my very best for a bright future, and shall continue to cheer you all on from the sidelines.”

As part of Vintage Saga, DDC will continue to operate independently as its own entity, and also independently from other businesses within the group.  It will  benefit from Vintage Saga’s knowledge, expertise, relationships and reputation which will support its continued growth.  Arthur Motley, who has worked alongside Keir Sword for over 20 years, will become Managing Director of DDC.

Iain McClune, founder of Vintage Saga, said: “I echo Keir’s values and understand his vision for the future of the Dormant Distillery Company. The team at DDC is  what makes it so unique and I am excited to be a part of it again.

“Vintage Saga and DDC are both independent Scottish companies with the same knowledge-centric approach and people-first culture, with committed and passionate employees who contribute hugely to the success of the businesses.

“Exciting times are ahead and I am particularly pleased to be inheriting such a great team as they will be crucial to the ongoing success and future growth of the DDC brands. Under Keir’s tenure, Royal Mile Whiskies has become recognised as one of the great independent UK whisky merchants and this reputation is exactly what we look forward to building with all at DDC.”

Dave Broom, award winning drinks writer, commented:  “Over the past 25 years Royal Mile Whiskies has been an exemplar of a great drinks retail business. It has evolved over time, pioneering new avenues, but the secret to its success is it’s a business run by people who put the customer first. They have not just sold whisky, they have educated, entertained, and advised about it – and other spirits – because they care deeply about what they are selling.

“While this is the end of an era, I’m delighted the firm will remain independent and, importantly, with Iain as the new owner, that it is staying in Scottish hands. I wish Keir all the best in his future ventures, but know that with Arthur at the helm that continuing success will be guaranteed.”

About Dormant Distillery Company Ltd

Keir Sword started the independent bottling business DDC Ltd in 1997 but his focus for the business soon changed when he had the opportunity to buy his former employer, Royal Mile Whiskies.   Royal Mile Whiskies was established in 1991, however, it was in 1997 when Keir Sword, a returning former employee, purchased the shop that it developed into one of the world’s most respected specialist whisky retailers.  Keir added The Cigar Box to the portfolio in 1999, followed by rmw.com in 2000, which made the company one of the very first to retail whisky online.  As sales of ‘other’ spirits had grown steadily, the Drinkmonger brand was added in 2011 with the opening of a retail shop in Pitlochry, Highland Perthshire and then Bruntsfield, Edinburgh later the same year.  The Royal Mile Whiskies Trade department is seen as the pre-eminent wholesaler of specialist spirits into the Scottish bar trade, with an accounts list of some of the very best hospitality venues in Scotland and beyond.   Royal Mile Whiskies’ worldwide reputation is largely due to its knowledgeable team of whisky enthusiasts.    Keir is a Master of the Quaich and is soon to become a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Distillers.

About Vintage Saga Ltd

Iain McClune is the Founder and Managing Director of Vintage Saga Ltd which is the holding company of Whisky Auctioneer, Wine Auctioneer, Rum Auctioneer and Bright Spirits Lts.   Prior to establishing Whisky Auctioneer, Iain was Manager at Royal Mile Whiskies Edinburgh, a leading independent traditional whisky specialist.  He was listed as One to Watch in The Telegraph’s Most Ambitious Business Leaders programme in 2020.

Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at auction.  It has come to acclaim in recent years with record breaking auctions of some of the world’s most coveted and collectible whiskies.  Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Perth, Scotland, Whisky Auctioneer utilises its expertise and knowledge combined with its auction platform to increase interest and passion in the whisky and spirits community. Its industry-leading online platform connects sellers to a global network of buyers, giving passionate whisky lovers access to the most comprehensive selection of rare whisky online.

In 2017, Wine Auctioneer was established offering the same services for mature and rare fine wines and in August 2019, Iain launched Rum Auctioneer, the first dedicated online auction of its kind. The creation of Wine Auctioneer and Rum Auctioneer was prompted by the high levels of demand for buying and selling these products through Whisky Auctioneer.  A simple, accessible, and dedicated platform for selling wine and rum online was missing and we were ideally placed to offer a solution.

The central Scotland headquarters’ success paved the way for expansion into the EU, where Whisky Auctioneer opened an office in Ratheim, Germany in 2020. In 2022, further expansion increased capacity to support the whisky community within the United Kingdom with the opening of a central London office.

International Beverage appoints Malcolm Leask to New Managing Director Role

Leading global drinks business International Beverage Holdings has announced the appointment of long-standing Vice President of Sales Malcolm Leask to the new post of Managing Director.

The producer of premium drinks brands including Old Pulteney, Balblair and Speyburn single malt whiskies will lead a consolidation of all UK operations, including the Inver House Distillers production subsidiary, under the International Beverage banner.

Leask, who has over 25 years of service with the business, is tasked with an ambitious programme of growth and international expansion to build on the success currently enjoyed by the company’s award-winning spirits portfolio.

Mr Leask commented: ‘We are uniting all aspects of our business under the International Beverage banner and planning for what will be a very exciting and dynamic new era of growth, both in the UK and in international markets. 

‘Our premium brands are amongst the very best in the industry and we have much to be proud of when it comes to our track record for quality, innovation and sustainable distilling, not to mention the incredibly dedicated and talented people who work in our business. 

‘I’m very much looking forward to working together with them to build on all of this great work and to achieve even greater things in the future.’

The announcement coincides with news of the planned retiral in early 2023 of Martin Leonard, current Managing Director of Inver House Distillers, after nearly 25 years of service.

Mr Leask added: ‘We owe Martin Leonard an enormous debt of gratitude for his custodianship of our stable of whiskies and gin over the past few years. He has led the Inver House operation with vision and expertise, building the strong foundation our business is built on today. We wish him all the very best when he retires next year.’ 

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL BEVERAGE HOLDINGS

International Beverage Holdings Ltd is one of the drinks industry’s most dynamic global businesses.  Established in 2006 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thaibev, the company operates as its international business arm, specialising in the development of premium local spirits for the global market. Its success is built on a strong understanding of local cultures and markets within a worldwide business network. Based in Hong Kong with regional offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, the USA and UK, the company is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium brands in over 85 markets. These brands are built on character, craftsmanship and quality, led by a range of award-winning Scotch whiskies and an array of vibrant beers and spirits. These include:

• Single malt Scotch whiskies Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc and Speyburn
• Blended Scotch Hankey Bannister
• Caorunn, Scotland’s leading super premium gin
• Mekhong, ‘The Spirit of Thailand’ since 1941

Bacardi Announces Global Marketing Moves

John Burke to Retire as CMO Bacardi
Ned Duggan Promoted to CMO Bacardi and Kathy Parker Expands her Portfolio

Hamilton, Bermuda, September 16, 2022 – Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world, today announces moves within its global marketing leadership. John Burke, Global Chief Marketing Officer of Bacardi and President of Bacardi Global Brands Limited, will retire after more than 28 years with the company at the end of 2022. During his tenure, he led many of the company’s leading brands, including most recently BACARDÍ® rum, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouths and sparkling wines, and DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky.

“John is an incredibly strategic marketer who has helped us reinvigorate many brands and keep consumer at the heart of everything that we do. He played an important role in creating a disciplined marketing organization focused on building capabilities and driving brand equity over the years,” says Mahesh Madhavan, Chief Executive Officer of Bacardi Limited. “Under his leadership, we have seen many magical moments for our brands. He leaves us having imprinted his mark in our story – and a legacy he can be very proud of.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the many opportunities I have been given in my lifetime at Bacardi. I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from some remarkable people, and I hope I have been able to help them in return. I have loved nurturing our brands to make them stronger and see them grow,” says John Burke. “I am very proud of what we have achieved together and wish Bacardi good fortune and continued success for the future.”

Following John’s retirement, Ned Duggan will be promoted to Global Chief Marketing Officer of Bacardi and President of Bacardi Global Brands Limited. Since 2017, Ned has led BACARDÍ® rum, first in market execution in North America and later globally from Bermuda as SVP. In addition to his continued leadership of BACARDÍ rum, he will add MARTINI®, DEWAR’S®, WILLIAM LAWSON’S®, D’USSÉ® Cognac, among others. Ned’s ascension is the culmination of a 17-year-tenure at Bacardi that began as an Assistant Brand Manager. His career has spanned assignments at regional and global levels working on many company brands, including DEWAR’S®, GREY GOOSE®, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE®, OXLEY®, ST-GERMAIN®, D’USSÉ®, and others. Ned, who will relocate to London, will report to CEO Mahesh Madhavan and joins the Global Leadership Team (GLT).

“I am incredibly honored and humbled to assume the role of CMO at Bacardi,” says Ned Duggan. “I have spent my career at this company, learning from the best and I am thrilled to enter this next phase of my journey working to further develop and grow our renowned portfolio.”

Kathy Parker, President & CMO of GREY GOOSE® vodka and the tequila portfolio, which includes PATRÓN® and CAZADORES®, will add BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin to her remit following John’s retirement. Kathy is a member of the company’s Global Leadership Team and reports to CEO Mahesh Madhavan.

About Bacardi Limited
Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world, produces and markets internationally recognized spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited brand portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, GREY GOOSE® vodka, PATRÓN® tequila, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur, and ERISTOFF® vodka. Founded more than 160 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 8,000, operates production facilities in 10 countries, and sells its brands in more than 170 countries. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.

GORDON & MACPHAIL RELEASES RECOLLECTION SERIES FEATURING RARE SINGLE MALTS FROM CLOSED SCOTTISH DISTILLERIES 

Gordon & MacPhail is unveiling a collection of exceptionally rare whiskies from closed distilleries across Scotland – a new annual series of single cask releases from its revered liquid library.

The ‘Recollection Series’ features a trove of whiskies from distilleries lost to the mists of time, giving enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to enjoy forgotten masterpieces.

From the Private Collection range, personally selected by members of Gordon & MacPhail’s owning family, come a 1982 from St. Magdalene Distillery (Linlithgow), a 1982 from Glen Mhor Distillery (Inverness), and a 1981 from Lochside Distillery (Montrose). All whiskies are bottled at cask strength and unchillfiltered.

The whiskies, each matured in Gordon & MacPhail’s own casks, exemplify Gordon & MacPhail’s patient approach to maturation, guided by the principle that ensuring quality is always the key motivating factor.

The releases from St Magdalene, Glen Mhor and Lochside distilleries are available worldwide, with other releases in the series available in select international markets.

Stuart Urquhart, Operations Director at Gordon & MacPhail said: “We’re excited to release a series that revives and celebrates the spirit and character of these closed distilleries from across Scotland.

“Each remarkable expression is vanishingly rare and captures an unrepeatable moment in Scotland’s rich liquid heritage. Having carefully assessed the progress of each spirit down the decades, we feel now is finally the right moment to reveal these landmark single malts. We hope the annual series will excite single malt enthusiasts keen to try something different, and irreplaceable.”

For more information, visit www.gordonandmacphail.com

#GordonandMacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1982 from St Magdalene Distillery [RSP £2249.99/ $3499 USD]*

The 39-year-old whisky has been matured in casks #2094 – a refill American hogshead – and will be available worldwide.

• ABV:8%
• Outturn: 165 bottles
• Aroma: Baked apple aromas lead to demerara sugar and faint dried herbs. Grapefruit zest develops accompanied by white chocolate and freshly cut grass.
• Taste: Dried pineapple flavours infuse with passion fruit and crystallised violet. Lemon curd comes to the fore alongside subtle icing sugar and a faint herbal edge.
• Finish:  White pepper and charred oak linger on the finish with citrus fruit.
• About the distillery: Built in the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow in the mid-18^th century by Sebastian Henderson who rented the lands of St. Magdalene’s Cross Convent from the Countess of Dalhousie to build the distillery. The operation of St Magdalene throughout the 20th century, though the distillery became one of nine permanently closed by the company in 1983. The distillery was renovated into residential flats in the early 1990s, though its malting barn and kiln, which are registered as C Grade listed buildings, remain.

Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1982 from Glen Mhor Distillery [RSP £2249.99/ $3499 USD]*

The 40-year-old Glen Mhor whisky has been matured in a refill Sherry hogshead and will be available worldwide.

• ABV:8%
• Outturn: 174 bottles
• Aroma: Rich Sherry influences with toasted hazelnuts and subtle milk chocolate. Morello cherry notes develop alongside sweet treacle toffee.
• Taste: Intense stewed fruit leads to pressed apple and demerara sugar. Raspberry compote combines with soft white pepper and a hint of dried tobacco.
• Finish: A full finish with citrus and summer fruit.
• About the distillery: Designed by Charles Doig, the distillery was built in in 1892 by John Birnie and Charles Mackinlay. Unusually, the Highland based distillery remained water-powered until the 1950s and had Saladin maltings installed in 1954. It was eventually demolished in 1986.

Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1981 from Lochside Distillery [RSP £3199.99/ $4999 USD]*

The 40-year-old whisky has been matured in a refill Sherry hogshead and will be available across worldwide markets.

• ABV:2%
• Outturn: 141 bottles
• Aroma: Rich Sherry aromas complement fragrant mandarin peel. Salted almonds come to the fore with raspberry compote and faint malted biscuit.
• Taste: Roasted coffee beans lead to walnuts and stewed raisins. Blackcurrant jam accompanies Seville orange peel and red apple.
• Finish: A long finish with lingering hazelnuts and cocoa powder.
• About the distillery: Lochside was a brewery from 1786 until its closure in 1957. It incorporated a white tower – a classic German brauhaus design – that was reinterpreted by Charles Doig in 1899. The site was then purchased with the new owner installing a Coffey and he set about installing a Coffey still, swiftly followed by four pot stills in 1961. The Coffey still was decommissioned and the distillery ran until the early 1990s before it was finally closed and sold to developers before being demolished in 2005.

*Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties.

About Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies

For over 125 years, Gordon & MacPhail has been driven by a simple mission: to create single malt Scotch whisky of exceptional quality.

Through four generations of family ownership, the company has matched spirit from over 100 Scottish distilleries to its own bespoke casks.

It is this unique depth and breadth of experience that enables Gordon & MacPhail to combine oak, spirit and time to create a portfolio of iconic whiskies found nowhere else in the world.

• ‘Discovery’–This flavour-led range is the perfect introduction to our portfolio of quality single malt Scotch whiskies
• ‘Distillery Labels’–A range celebrating our long-standing relationships with Scotland’s distilleries
• ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ –The heart of our portfolio. Always unique, these non-chill-filtered, natural coloured, small batch expressions are genuine one-offs.
• ‘Private Collection’–Greatly-aged single malts from celebrated, little-known, or closed distilleries specially selected by members of the Urquhart family
• ‘Generations’–A prestigious collection of old, rare, and exclusive masterpieces

Douglas Laing Unveils Spooktacular Campbeltown Bottling: The Gauldrons Cask Strength Limited Edition

Leading distiller, blender and bottler, Douglas Laing & Co, today announce the second ever limited edition release under their award-winning Campbeltown Malt Scotch Whisky brand: The Gauldrons Cask Strength Edition.

Joining the core expression which launched in 2017 and The Gauldrons Sherry Edition which launched as a limited release earlier this year, the Cask Strength Edition is strictly limited to no more than 3,120 bottles. A marriage of Single Cask Single Malts exclusively from Campbeltown, the Blended Malt has been bottled at a Natural Cask Strength of 53.4% alcohol and is proudly offered without colouring or chill-filtration, in line with the Douglas Laing family’s “As Natural As It Gets” ethos.

The Gauldrons is said to be “inspired by the eponymous dark sandy coves on Campbeltown’s west shores” and literally means “bay of storms”. This latest release is said to “pay homage to the elusive region by encapsulating its dark, mysterious allure – a positioning which is particularly relevant around the forthcoming Halloween season”. Presented in a sleek black bottle with a deep purple wax seal and a glow in the dark label for premium and seasonal appeal.

Commenting on this latest bottling, Cara Laing, Marketing Director, said:

“We’re delighted to launch the second ever limited edition for our Campbeltown Malt Scotch Whisky brand! Bottled at a Natural Cask Strength, the resulting spirit reveals an exceptional combination of smoky sweetness and maritime saltiness – a dram we can’t wait to share with the whisky aficionados of the world. The standout glow in the dark label was a particularly fun piece of innovation and brings an exciting new dimension to the bottling. The phenomenal spirit quality and creative packaging make this new release the ultimate dram to be enjoyed this spooky Halloween season and is one we are incredibly proud of.”

The Gauldrons Cask Strength Edition will be available online and from specialist spirits retailers in Europe, America and Asia from early October 2022 and is expected to retail at £60 / €70. 

Tasting notes    

Classically Campbeltown in style, expect waves of sea air, puffs of gentle smoke, sugary manuka honey and a mouth-coating Cask Strength depth.

ABOUT THE GAULDRONS

Instagram: @thegauldronswhisky

Facebook: /dlthegauldrons 

Established in 2017 by Douglas Laing & Co, The Gauldrons represents the “ultimate distillation of Campbeltown” in a small batch marriage of Single Cask Single Malts exclusively from the Campbeltown region of Scotland. The Gauldrons, literally meaning ‘Bay of Storms’ presents a classically Campbeltown style of salty and maritime with a spicy finish. The Gauldrons is proudly offered at high strength and without colouring or chill-filtration – adhering to the Douglas Laing

family’s ‘As Natural As It Gets’ ethos.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

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

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

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

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

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

ABERFELDY® ANNOUNCES TWO NEW EDITIONS TO ITS RED WINE CASK COLLECTION 

27^th September, 2022 – John Dewar & Sons announces the latest limited expressions to come from ABERFELDY’s Red Wine Cask Collection.

For this year’s annual release ABERFELDY is releasing two expressions; ABERFELDY 15 Years Old finished in Cabernet Sauvignon wine casks from Napa Valley, and ABERFELDY 18 Years Old finished in Tuscan red wine casks from Bolgheri, available in selected markets.

The ABERFELDY Limited Edition series is crafted by Malt Master, Stephanie Macleod. Being highly accomplished in the sensory analyses of whisky, this collection was born through Stephanie’s inherent passion for maturation and flavour development. Inspired by her adoration of fine wine, Stephanie began the exploration of how flavours from red wine casks interact with and elevate Aberfeldy’s aged malt. Painstakingly nosing each cask to monitor maturation and flavour development within the Aberfeldy inventory, the use of Stephanie’s sensory skills ensures that every whisky has been expertly finished, is flavoursome, balanced, and brimming with distillery character.

The first Single Malt in the collection was launched in 2019. Finished in Pomerol wine casks, the inaugural expression started Aberfeldy’s journey into French red wine; and the four subsequent bottlings further explored the famous reds of the esteemed Bordeaux and Rhone wine appellations. Evolving to include red wines from further afield, the newest bottlings to be released widen the collection’s offering to encompass cask finishes from both an Old World wine and a New World wine.

Stephanie has chosen to finish a 15-year-old Aberfeldy with a Californian red from the famed Napa Valley, alongside an 18-year-old finished with a Tuscan red from Bolgheri, the birthplace of the first Super Tuscan wine.

ABERFELDY 15 Years Old Limited Edition is first matured in a combination of refill casks, and then finished in ex-Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Barriques, sourced from the world-famous Napa Valley, California’s best known wine-producing region.

ABERFELDY 18 Years Old Limited Edition is first matured in a combination of refill casks, and then finished in ex-Tuscan Red Wine Barriques, sourced from Bolgheri in Italy. This Italian wine producing region of Tuscany is best known for Chianti, but Bolgheri, a relatively young yet prestigious Italian appellation, boasts being the birthplace of the first Super Tuscan wine, made with a Cabernet Sauvignon base.

Malt Master, Stephanie Macleod comments: “Aberfeldy with a Napa red wine finish delights with fragrant notes of raspberry jam, parma violets, then cinnamon and freshly ground coffee beans, all alongside the signature honeyed profile. It’s a rare, complex dram to savour.”

Adding: “The 18-year-old edition is showing exactly the kind of depth and interest I’m aiming for when finishing in Tuscan red wine casks of this quality. On the palate there’s more fruit and almond, and also delightful hints of sliced green pepper and lime which mingles with Aberfeldy’s citrus and honey notes. Beautiful soft oak rounds out this complex and deeply satisfying dram. It’d be ideal with dessert.”

Stephanie and Global Brand Ambassador, Matthew Cordiner will host a Facebook live event on 6^th October at 7pm, in which they will introduce the two newest editions to the Red Wine Cask Collection in an online tasting, via the Dewars Aberfeldy Distillery Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/DewarsAberfeldyDistillery

ABERFELDY 15 Years Old finished in Cabernet Sauvignon wine casks from Napa Valley is bottled at 43% ABV and has a RRP of: £55, €59, $79.99 USD. The expression will be available in limited runs, initially from the distillery’s online shop, www.shop.dewars.com from 27^th September, and then will roll out in the following main markets: UK, France, Germany and USA.

ABERFELDY 18 Years Old finished in Tuscan red wine casks from Bolgheri is bottled at 43% ABV and has a RRP of: £95 / €99 / $120 USD. The expression will also be available in limited runs, initially from the distillery’s online shop, www.shop.dewars.com from 27^th September, and then will roll out in the following main markets: UK, India, Taiwan, China, USA, France and Germany.

www.Aberfeldy.com

About ABERFELDY Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABERFELDY distillery was founded in 1898 by the dynamic Dewar brothers, John Alexander and Tommy. They built on a site just a stone’s throw from the birthplace of their father, the pioneering blender John Dewar.

Alongside the distillery, and known to contain deposits of alluvial gold, flows the Pitilie Burn; the perfect water source for the Golden Dram. While inside, time-honoured techniques like long fermentation, which conjures rare honeyed notes, safeguard the whisky’s flavour profile, renowned for its rich, sweet, smooth taste.

The brand’s core portfolio is comprised of ABERFELDY 12 Years Old, ABERFELDY 16 Years and ABERFELDY 21 Years Old.

The single malt brand of ABERFELDY is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.

ABERFELDY’S Red Wine Cask Collection

Aberfeldy’s French Red Wine Cask Collection launched in 2019 with the first release of Aberfeldy 15 Year Old, finished in Pomerol casks from Bordeaux, the second release in 2020 was an 18 Year Old expression finished in Pauillac casks, also from Bordeaux. For the third bottling introduced in 2021, Malt Master, Stephanie Macleod chose a robust yet elegant wine from Côte Rôtie. The newest bottlings in the series expand the collection’s offering with Aberfeldy 15 Year Old finished in Cabernet Sauvignon wine casks from Napa Valley and Aberfeldy 18 Year Old finished in Tuscan red wine casks from Bolgheri.

ENJOY ABERFELDY RESPONSIBLY ©2022 ABERFELDY IS A TRADEMARK

THE LAST DROP DISTILLERS INTRODUCES

RELEASE NO. 28: DREW MAYVILLE’S SIGNATURE BLEND OF KENTUCKY STRAIGHT WHISKEYS

This unparalleled innovation reflects a lifetime of mastery from Sazerac’s Master Blender

LOUISVILLE, KY (September 22, 2022): The Last Drop Distillers of London continues its quest for curating and creating the world’s rarest and most remarkable spirits with the release of its second Signature Blend: Release No 28: The Last Drop Signature Blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys. Created by Sazerac Master Blender Drew Mayville, a founding member of The Last Drop Assembly’s panel of spirits industry experts, this bespoke spirit comprises a blend of vintage straight bourbon and rye whiskeys. Impossible to replicate, 1,458 bottles will be released worldwide and available in the U.S. as of October 2022 at a suggested retail price of $3,999 (750ml/121.4 proof).

Since becoming Sazerac’s Master Blender in 2004, Drew has cultivated a dream of creating an ultra-rare whiskey for the most discerning of connoisseurs. To achieve this, he began preserving extremely small quantities of his favorite whiskeys at Buffalo Trace Distillery to fulfil this vision. He was confident that using his lifetime of expertise, knowledge and his masterful palate, combined with the incredible liquids available to him, he could make a unique and unparalleled blend.

To bring his vision for The Last Drop to life Drew blended vintage whiskeys that he had been saving since he joined the Buffalo Trace Distillery team. He tasted more than 40 different vintage bourbon and rye whiskeys, creating multiple combinations of these spirits before arriving at the final masterpiece that bears his signature. Bottled at 121.4 proof, Drew left this high-proof blend uncut and unfiltered to maximize its flavor and complexity. The resulting liquid is a celebration of the art of blending, allowing the individual components to shine while creating a majestic whole that is truly remarkable and impossible to replicate. Drew uses the analogy of an orchestra to explain his intention:

“As a master blender, I wholeheartedly believe that one can take individual components that are already exceptional to create an extraordinarily-beautiful end product,” says Drew. “As with music, a clarinet can be beautiful in its own right. However, when you combine it with other instruments in an orchestra you create a symphony – a masterpiece. This blend fully epitomizes this notion, and it’s been a dream come true to create this truly one-of-a-kind spirit for my friends at The Last Drop.”

Drew’s Blend follows The Last Drop Distillers first Signature Blend: a 50 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky created by Master Blender Colin J.P. Scott. Released in July 2021, this was the brand’s first foray into the creation, as well as curation, of extraordinary spirits by the talented members of The Last Drop Assembly.

“It has been a wonderfully exciting experience to work with my friend, colleague and inspiration, Drew Mayville, to create this phenomenal blend,” says Rebecca Jago, managing director, The Last Drop Distillers. “The creation of The Assembly in 2020 was one of The Last Drop’s proudest achievements: to see the visions of such stellar icons of the industry come to life in a Last Drop bottle is, for me, a dream come true.” 

DREW MAYVILLE’S TASTING NOTES:

COLOR: A rich, golden amber hue speaks of the wood, the age and the maturation these whiskeys have been through. The high proof can be seen in the long legs which linger on the glass.

NOSE: This reminds me of walking into one of Buffalo Trace’s most famous warehouses, built all those years ago: the atmosphere, the history and the provenance – it packs an evocative punch. Deep, dark fruit, figs, and dates on the nose, some raisins, and an aromatic spiciness, with citrus zest. There is some spiciness from the straight rye, and a creamy, vanilla from the bourbons, yielding a complex and layered flavor.

PALATE: To begin with, there are dark fruits, candy and orange peel upfront. From there, we begin a journey through a veritable spice merchant’s storeroom, and into a saddle room full of worn leather and wax. The ages of the whiskeys in this blend, and the magnificent impact of the American oak are here in perfect balance with the individual elements of the blend. A crescendo of rich and raw spiciness transitions across your palate: that balance is pure magic.

CONCLUSIONS: The spiciness is challenging the dark fruit, the chocolate notes, and the sweet vanilla. This is the balance and sophistication that arises only rarely when the tangy spice of the rye and the creamy chocolate of the bourbon whiskeys – combined with the sublime influence of the oak – all collide in perfect harmony. 

Each bottle of The Last Drop Signature Blend of Kentucky Straight Whiskeys is individually numbered and bears Drew’s physical signature. As with all recent Last Drop bottlings, it is artfully-contained in a bespoke bottle that suspends mid-air in an oak frame, held within in a signature green leather case alongside a 50ml miniature for private enjoyment, certificate of bottling and pocket-sized tasting book.

About Drew Mayville, Sazerac Master Blender

Drew Mayville has more 40 years of experience with some of the largest companies in the beverage alcohol industry. Drew joined Sazerac (at its Buffalo Trace Distillery location) in 2004 as the Master Blender and Director of Quality. The vast breadth of his experience comes from almost 23 years of experience with Seagram’s, where Drew was the last Master Blender to serve under the Seagram dynasty.

At Sazerac, Drew has worked hands on with all the award-winning products produced at Buffalo Trace in addition to the other highly acclaimed spirit categories of the company. Drew is active in overseeing a number of award-winning products produced at various locations for Sazerac, and promoting and educating the public on some of the world’s finest spirits. His passion is not only to make the finest quality products but also to delight and excite the consumer with his work.

About The Last Drop Assembly

Drew Mayville is one of the six founding members of The Assembly, formed by The Last Drop in 2020. The Assembly is a carefully selected panel of experts drawn from across the spirits industry, each a renowned world-leader in their own category. The inspiration for The Assembly arose from The Last Drop’s passion for sharing: not just the delights of exceptional spirits, but also the knowledge, ideas, expertise and creativity that sit at the heart of the industry. This cross-category forum, unique in the world of spirits, encourages the exchange of knowledge and experience from different industry fields, bringing fresh ideas and new thinking to help inspire and drive The Last Drop’s pursuit of the extraordinary.

The Assembly members also include: Colin Scott, Master Blender for The Last Drop, Richard Seale, Master Distiller & Blender, Foursquare Rum, Louise McGuane, Owner & Bonder, JJ Corry Irish Whiskey, Michael D’Souza, Master Distiller & Blender, Paul John Whisky and Denis Lahouratate, Cellar Master, Domaine de Sazerac, Cognac.

About The Last Drop Distillers

The Last Drop Distillers was founded in 2008 by two icons of the spirits industry, Tom Jago and James Espey with over 80 years of experience between them. Their aim was to curate the world’s most remarkable spirits by finding treasures across aged spirit categories and sharing them with those who seek the genuinely extraordinary. In 2016, The Last Drop was acquired by the Sazerac Company, one of America’s oldest private, family-owned, distillers. Rebecca continues to lead The Last Drop as Managing Director. To date, The Last Drop Distillers has released just 28 limited bottlings across Scotch Whisky, Cognac, Bourbon and Rum and Japanese Whisky, comprising fewer than 12,000 bottles. Seeking nothing less than exceptional in the spirits they curate, the company’s unwavering commitment is to the quality of the liquid and the pleasure of sharing the treasures they uncover. For more information about The Last Drop visit https://www.lastdropdistillers.com and @lastdropdistillers. For more information about Sazerac visit https://www.sazerac.com.

Lastdropdistillers.com | @lastdropdistillers

Dunphail Distillery launches new independent bottler – The Dava Way

Under construction Speyside distillery reveals inaugural release of four single cask, single malt Scotch whiskies

Dunphail today announced the upcoming launch of The Dava Way – the distillery’s new independent bottling operation. Named after the Great Scottish Trail that follows the path of the former Highlands Railway, passing close to Dunphail Distillery, The Dava Way looks to explore the remarkable individuality of whisky – at a price which is fair to consumers.

Led by Dunphail’s Director of Whisky Creation and Outreach Matt McKay, The Dava Way has conscientiously sourced an array of thought-provoking casks that celebrate both flavour and uniqueness. These will be delivered to consumers as transparently as possible – free from any artifice, colour or chill filtration.

Releases will follow a monthly cycle, commencing in October 2022, when the four inaugural bottlings will be showcased at The London Whisky Show taking place at Old Billingsgate Market. Releases will initially be offered via Dunphail Distillery’s website and distillery shop (due to open later in 2022) and will be available to be shipped to customers in most countries.

The first release from The Dava Way’s consists of four single cask, single malt Scotch whiskies – a 17 year old hogshead from an Orkney Distillery, a 13 year old recharred hogshead from Glen Elgin, a 12 year old hogshead from Benrinnes and a 13 year old Cognac butt from Dailuaine.

Speaking of the launch Matt McKay said: “Whilst the whisky world is far from short of new independent bottlers, a number are either bottling cask-to-cask using 3^rd parties or are in our view placing profit over and above profile and personality. The Dava Way will take a different approach. We will be utilising the warehousing and production facilities at Dunphail to actively guide and shape the maturation and character of our whiskies and will likewise be pricing our releases for drinking, not as collectibles. The Dava Way has been entirely conceived and developed as a project borne of passion – a love for sharing the incredible diversity that is possible when spirit meets wood. Alongside my role defining and developing Dunphail’s wood policy and eventual single malt profiles, I am delighted to also now be sharing this broader, ongoing expedition into the individuality of whisky.”

Dunphail Distillery Founder and Master Distiller Dariusz Plazewski added: “Dunphail will not be producing any Scottish gins or vodkas – even over the next three years as our initial spirit matures. We are a 100% traditional whisky distillery and as such, launching The Dava Way fits perfectly within that philosophy, The combination of Dunphail’s unique micro-climate, which is perfect for the maturation of whisky, coupled with Matt’s passion, knowledge and palate provides us with a complete package. We will be able to support the ongoing development of our distillery and also provide whisky enthusiasts with additional captivating releases that exemplify whisky excellence.”

The Speyside-based distillery is currently under construction and is due to be completed in Q1 2023. The 200,000 LPA capacity site is being converted from an existing farm steading and is aiming to shift the perceptions of what Scotch whisky can be. Adopting a single-minded approach to its production, Dunphail will feature the full range of time-honoured processes such as 100% on-site floor malting, traditional kilning, long fermentations and directly fired stills. Founder’s Club Memberships and a private cask programme are both currently available for purchase.

The Dava Way – Release No. 1

An Orkney Distillery 2005

17 year old

Drawn from a single hogshead 

Nose: Immediately coastal with hewn rocks, sea breeze and prominent heathery peat smoke. Vegetal notes of leaf mulch, clay and putty follow, supported by sweeter aromas of honey and cooking apples.

Palate: An oily mouthfeel delivers a fulsome island smoke consisting of bonfire ash, sack cloth, preserved lemon, hillside flowers and limestone cliffs.

Finish: Lingering heather-imbued smoke, herbal teas and coastal minerality.

300 bottles

70cl

61.3% ABV

RRP £89.95

Glen Elgin 2008

13 year old

Drawn from a single recharred hogshead

Nose: Peach syrup and orange zest join fluffy meringue whilst menthol sits with sage leaves, crumbled biscuits and gentle cinnamon.

Palate: Opening with spiced toffee and bright orchard fruits before developing toward apricot sponge cake, toasted oak and cask char.

Finish: Warming oak, slapped mint leaves and lingering fruit sugars. 

305 bottles

70cl

51.8% ABV

RRP £69.95

Benrinnes 2009

12 year old

Drawn from a single hogshead

Nose: Pear poached in mead sits with lemon and quince jellies. Butter caramel follows, livened by darkly roasted malts and pumice stone.

Palate: Orchard fruit syrup and pineapple juice lead into soft waxiness. The development reveals mandarins, chocolate, pink peppercorns and a tingle of salinity.

Finish: Sustained green and yellow fruits, orange peel and vanilla sweetness.

305 bottles

70cl

54% ABV

RRP £69.95

Dailuaine 2009

13 year old

Drawn from a single Cognac butt

Nose: Blackberry bread and butter pudding, split vanilla pods and sunflower oil sit alongside ginger snap biscuits and toasted almonds.

Palate: Golden syrup is drizzled over apples and grapes, whilst brandy butter is livened by cask spices – ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Finish: Darker and deeper maltiness with lingering spice.

510 bottles

70cl

50% ABV

RRP £59.95

About The Dava Way

The Dava Way uncovers, curates and bottles spirits that exemplify and celebrate flavour, balance and uniqueness. Named after the Great Scottish Trail that follows the path of the former Highland Railway passing close to Dunphail Distillery, The Dava Way explores the individuality of whisky – one cask at a time.

About Dunphail Distillery 

Our firm belief in the importance of high-quality barley and the use of onsite floor malting and kilning ensures that Dunphail’s spirit is a product of uniqueness, shaped by generations of rich distilling heritage. We craft the finest whisky the way it used to be made – taking the traditions of the past to shape the whisky of tomorrow.

THE WORLD’S OLDEST SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

COMES TO AUCTION:

Sotheby’s to Offer One-of-a-kind Special Edition of

The Macallan The Reach 81 Years Old

Proceeds to Benefit The Macallan Artisan Apprenticeship Fund

LONDON, 26 September 2022 – Today at Sotheby’s in London, bidding opened on a one-of-a-kind special edition of The Macallan The Reach 81 Years Old single malt, the oldest whisky ever to come to auction. Estimated at £110,000-200,000, the decanter is being presented in a special single-lot sale, which will close to prospective bidders on 5 October. Proceeds will raise funds for The Macallan’s recently established Artisan Collective forum, to benefit The Macallan Artisan Apprenticeship Fund, enabling recipient businesses to attract and recruit new apprentices, as well as providing existing artisan apprentices with the opportunity to take part in specialist training and development programmes.

Crafted from a single, sherry seasoned oak cask, The Macallan The Reach is encased in a decanter created from mouth-blown, hot glass, cradled on a bronze sculpture of three hands representing characters in The Macallan’s history. Unveiled in February 2022, this release from the distillery reflects an extraordinary moment in time, the liquid laid down during a period of increasing hardship during the Second World War, just before The Macallan was compelled to close its doors for the first time in its history.

The cabinet housing the decanter has been crafted using wood from a fallen elm tree which is thought to have been on The Macallan Estate in 1940, the year the spirit was distilled. The decanter itself is encased in a display cabinet lined in red leather – reflecting the red thread that has run through The Macallan’s branding since it was founded almost 200 years ago – rather than the traditional cream leather which features on the original whisky release.

Synonymous with age in the whisky world is rarity, since not many barrels in bonded warehouses in Scotland make it to the age of 50 due to the rate of alcohol evaporation. The Macallan The Reach represents the age and quality that the world’s leading spirits collectors look for in ultra-rare whiskies. The auction record for a bottle of the world’s oldest whisky was established at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong in October 2021, when Decanter #1 of the Gordon & Macphail Generations 80-Years-Old, sold for HK$1,500,000 / US$193,000 / £142,000.

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Head of Whisky & Spirits, North America and EMEA, said: “Age, rarity and provenance combine to spectacular effect in this one of one version of the oldest single malt whisky ever to be released by The Macallan. This is Sotheby’s third auction partnership with The Macallan in three years, and it is always a special event when we collaborate to launch a unique and exclusive bottle. It is particularly special when that bottle happens to contain the oldest whisky in the world.”

Elizabeth McMillan, Head of Insight & Sustainability at The Macallan, said: “Through The Macallan Artisan Collective, our aim is to support and celebrate artisans. Future-proofing generational skills is of great importance, and The Macallan holds a deep affinity with artisans and master makers. As contemporary creators, designers, and craftspeople, what unites us all is the value that we place on provenance and our infinite passion for finding innovative ways to keep traditional crafts and generational skills alive. Through our work, we are fortunate to collaborate with an incredible network of artisans who support us each year in realising our vision of creating beautifully distinctive products and experiences and compelling, creative storytelling. The Reach is testament to the incomparable craftsmanship and creativity that has driven The Macallan since it was founded in 1824, and that is why it’s so fitting that this extraordinary whisky will fund today’s generation of artisans.”

The winning bidder will also enjoy an exceptional distillery experience at The Macallan Estate, including a tasting of this extraordinarily rare 81-year-old single malt whisky.

The Macallan | The Reach 81 Years Old: The World’s Oldest Whisky

Whisky Maker’s Notes – The Macallan The Reach

Colour: Deep auburn

ABV: 41.6%

Nose: Dark chocolate, sweet cinnamon, aromatic peat, plums, leather, pink grapefruit, redcurrant jelly and a rich resinous note.

Palate: Treacle toffee, bramble jam, liquorice, crystalised ginger, nutmeg, charred pineapple, pecans, woodsmoke.

Finish: Intensely rich, sweet and smoky.

The Macallan Artisan Collective is a creative forum for likeminded master makers to network, exchange ideas, innovate and collaborate via live gatherings and digital events. Established in 2021, it champions and celebrates the artisans, their philosophies, knowledge, skills and their critical role in our local and global economies.

In the same year, The Macallan created The Macallan Artisan Apprenticeship Fund in recognition of the need to preserve and safeguard legacy crafts, trades, skills and values to support employment for generations to come.

Douglas Laing Reveals Seasonal Limited Editions: Big Peat Christmas and Scallywag Winter

Leading distiller, blender and bottler Douglas Laing & Co today unveils two new seasonal bottlings within their Islay and Speyside Malt Scotch Whisky brands: Big Peat Christmas Edition and Scallywag Winter Edition. These exclusive releases round off what has been a successful year for the two leading brands in Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts range, both of which were awarded gold at The Spirits Business Scotch Whisky Masters 2022.

In line with Douglas Laing’s ethos, these special bottlings are proudly offered without colouring or chill-filtration and are both bottled at a Natural Cask Strength, with Big Peat Christmas at 54.2% and Scallywag Winter at 54% alcohol.

A marriage of Single Cask Single Malts exclusively from Islay, Big Peat’s limited edition is said to be “bursting with burnt caramel, wafts of Hebridean sea air and rich earthy notes, balanced by a toasted marshmallow sweetness”. Big Peat Christmas Edition is packaged in a luxurious gift tube with gloss-varnished details and carries a bespoke illustration depicting the iconic bearded fisherman with his head stuck in a Christmas wreath. The candy-striped red and white bottle capsule that has become synonymous with the festive release completes the premium gifting offering.

Strictly limited to 5,400 bottles, Scallywag’s 100% Sherry Cask Matured bottling is the third annual Winter expression. Presented with a mini, green and red striped woolen scarf round the bottle neck for seasonal appeal. This limited release has been matured exclusively in a combination of Speyside Oloroso and Pedro Ximinéz Sherry butts. Each Single Cask Single Malt was hand-selected by the Douglas Laing family for its “rich and full-bodied flavours that complement the season”, resulting in a spirit that is described as “spectacularly spicy with hints of cinnamon and ginger, alongside sweet, indulgent dark chocolate”.

Commenting on the seasonal expressions, Brand Manager, Rebecca Fennell said:

“We’re delighted to unveil this year’s festive releases for two of our biggest brands, Big Peat and Scallywag. As a company, we are incredibly proud to see these editions become highly anticipated within the Whisky world and they have become something we look forward to every year. Both offered at a Natural Cask Strength and bursting with flavour, these drams are the ultimate warmers for the inevitable dark and crisp winter nights ahead.”

Big Peat Christmas and Scallywag Winter Editions will be available from September 2022. These limited editions can be purchased from good specialist retailers in key markets globally, including Europe, America and Asia. Both expressions are expected to retail at £57.50 / €68.50.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

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

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

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

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

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