Lost Lantern Summer 2022 Single Cask Collection

Showcases the Breadth and Depth of American Whiskey

WEYBRIDGE, Vt., May 17, 2022—Lost Lantern, an independent bottler of American whiskey that launched less than 18 months ago, is pleased to announce their Summer 2022 collection, featuring seven limited edition single casks from six celebrated craft distilleries: McCarthy’s in Oregon, Frey Ranch in Nevada, Starlight in Indiana, Dad’s Hat in Pennsylvania, St. George in California, and Balcones in Texas.

Beginning June 8, in time for Father’s Day deliveries, the Summer 2022 single cask collection will be available for sale on LostLanternWhiskey.com, Seelbachs.com, and at select retailers in California and Alberta, Canada. All offerings are released with full transparency, bottled at cask strength, are non-chill-filtered and have natural color.

• 2022 Single Cask #5: McCarthy’s 3 Year Old Oregon Peated Single Malt Whiskey(240 btls): SRP, $90
• 2022 Single Cask #6: Frey Ranch Distillery Nevada Three Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey(196 btls): SRP, $100
• 2022 Single Cask #7: Starlight Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey(208 btls): SRP, $80
• 2022 Single Cask #8: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey(188 btls): SRP, $90
• 2022 Single Cask #9: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye WhiskeyFinished in a Vermouth Cask (119 btls): SRP, $110
• 2022 Single Cask #10: St. George Spirits California Single Malt Whiskey(215 btls): SRP, $160
• 2022 Single Cask #11: Balcones Distilling Texas Single Malt Aged in a Tequila Barrel(126 btls): SRP, $120

In addition to the above new single casks, Lost Lantern will be releasing a limited amount of distillery partner exploration bundles. The collections will include multiple releases from a single distillery to help whiskey lovers explore each distillery’s range. Bundles range from $140 – $320.

“The Lost Lantern Summer 2022 Collection emphasizes comparison, showing the full range of the distilleries we work with and what we as an independent bottler add to that conversation,” explained Lost Lantern Co-Founders Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski. “All seven casks in the new collection are meant to be points of comparison: sometimes to each other, sometimes to previous Lost Lantern releases, sometimes to the distillery’s own releases.”

Single casks are an essential piece of the Lost Lantern model, inspired by the long tradition of independent bottlers in Scotland. Since their debut in October 2020, Lost Lantern has released 29 one-of-a-kind single casks from 16 of the finest distilleries in the United States: Santa Fe Spirits (NM), Cedar Ridge (IA), New York Distilling Company (NY), Ironroot Republic (TX), Whiskey Del Bac (AZ), Balcones (TX) Watershed (OH), Boulder Spirits (CO), Spirit Works (CA), St. George Spirits (CA), McCarthy’s (OR), Smooth Ambler (WV), Starlight (IN), Westward (OR), Frey Ranch Distillery (NV), and Dad’s Hat (PA).

ABOUT LOST LANTERN’S SUMMER 2022 SINGLE CASK COLLECTION

Lost Lantern’s single casks show that the best whiskey reflects where it’s made, how it’s made, and who made it, and demonstrate that compelling whiskey comes from across the United States.

2022 Single Cask #5: McCarthy’s 3 Year Old Oregon Peated Single Malt Whiskey

(1240 btls | 114.1 Proof): SRP, $90

McCarthy’s is arguably the first American single malt. This fresh, approachable, heavily peated single malt is made from U.K. barley malted with Islay peat and was fermented, distilled, and aged in Oregon. It was aged for 3 years and 11 months in a second-fill 228-liter Oregon oak cask and has notes of leather, oak, iodine, and maple syrup-drizzled vanilla ice cream.

• Comparison Cask: 2021 Single Cask #6: McCarthy’s 6 Year Old Oregon Peated Single Malt

2022 Single Cask #6: Frey Ranch Distillery Nevada Three Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

(196 btls | 118.2 Proof): SRP, $100

Colby and Ashley Frey have transformed Frey Ranch, a fifth-generation family farm in the watershed of the Sierra Nevada, into one of the most exciting distilleries in the country. Frey Ranch grows all the grain for all of its whiskies, making it one of the only true estate distilleries in the U.S. This 5-year-old straight bourbon is one of the first three-grain whiskies ever to come from Frey Ranch. It has notes of chocolate, clove, spearmint, and balanced oak and is more spice- and fruit-driven than their traditional four-grain style.

• Comparison Cask: 2022 Single Cask #3: Frey Ranch Distillery Nevada Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey

2022 Single Cask #7: Starlight Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey

(208 btls | 116 Proof): SRP, $80

Located just across the Ohio River from Kentucky and only about 20 miles from Louisville, Starlight Distillery is part of Huber’s Orchard & Winery, an Indiana institution since 1843. This straight bourbon whiskey was aged for 4 years in a 53-gallon barrel and has flavors of lemon zest, cinnamon strudel, nutmeg, and creamy vanilla.

• Comparison Cask: 2021 Single Cask #8: Starlight Indiana Straight Rye Whiskey

2022 Single Cask #8: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey

(188 btls | 127 Proof): SRP, $90

Pennsylvania has a long and historic distilling tradition dating back to the colonial era, but by the 1990s, Pennsylvania rye whiskey had disappeared completely. Mountain Laurel Spirits, better known by its flagship brand Dad’s Hat, has brought this tradition back to life. This straight rye whiskey, Lost Lantern’s first from Dad’s Hat and first from Pennsylvania, was aged in a 53-gallon barrel for 5 years. It is fresh and grassy, with spearmint on the nose and candied orange, chocolate, and clove on the palate.

• Comparison Cask: 2022 Single Cask #9: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in a Vermouth Cask

2022 Single Cask #9: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in a Vermouth Cask

(119 btls | 119.9 Proof): SRP, $110

This release was made by finishing 4-year-old Dad’s Hat straight rye whiskey for 5 months in an ex-vermouth cask, which amplifies and builds upon the sweeter elements of the underlying rye whiskey. It has apricot and spearmint on the nose, and a rich palate that balances big baking spice, citrusy sweetness, and fresh green grass. A unique and deeply flavorful twist that shows how the right finish can naturally complement a whiskey.

• Comparison Cask: 2022 Single Cask #8: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey

2022 Single Cask #10: St. George Spirits California Single Malt Whiskey

(215 btls | 106.7 Proof): SRP, $160

Founded in 1982 and located in Alameda, California, St. George is the country’s first craft distillery and is renowned for its commitment to experimentation, innovation, quality and precision, fresh and flavorful local ingredients. When they released their first single malt whiskey in 2000, they were blazing a new trail. More than twenty years later, they still do. Distilled on a pot still and aged for 3 years and 10 months in a new oak cask, this whiskey is a beautiful intermingling of soft, floral flavors with gentle oak, clove, and nutmeg notes.

• Comparison Cask: 2021 Single Cask #5: St. George Spirits California Single Malt Whiskey

2022 Single Cask #11: Balcones Distilling Texas Single Malt Aged in a Tequila Barrel

(126 btls | 129 Proof): SRP, $120

Balcones is a pioneer, not just in Texas Whiskey but across the board. Their experiments with mashbills, barrel finishes, barrel sizes, and new techniques have helped break new ground in American whiskey. Cask #11 is no exception. It spent 5 years in a used tequila cask that previously held Balcones Rumble, a spirit distilled from honey, sugar, and figs. This style-bending whiskey, born and raised in the Texas heat, marries clean and elegant single malt with unusual flavors rarely seen in whiskey. It has butterscotch, graham crackers, and chili chocolate on the nose. The light, spicy palate has honey, lemon pepper, and even hints of lime. Perfect for summer.

• Comparison Cask: 2020 Single Cask #8: Balcones Distilling Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey

ABOUT LOST LANTERN

Founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is an independent bottler of American whiskey. Inspired by the long tradition of independent bottlers in Scotland, the company seeks out the most unique and exciting whiskies being made across the country and releases them as single casks and blends, always with a deep commitment to transparency. Currently, the Lost Lantern portfolio consists of American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1, a blend of American single malt whiskey made in collaboration with six distilleries from across the U.S., and twenty-nine single casks (14 of which are available now). Lost Lantern debuts new hand-selected whiskies throughout the year and announces one-off limited releases from time-to-time. Subscribe to Lost Lantern’s newsletter to learn about new offerings as they become available. Lost Lantern Whiskey is available for purchase at LostLanternWhiskey.com, at Seelbachs.com, and at select retailers in California and Alberta.

Engage with Lost Lantern Whiskey on the following channels:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lostlanternwhiskey
• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lostlanternwhiskey
• Twitter:  https://twitter.com/LostLanternDram

BIG PEAT WELCOMES UNPREDICTABLE ISLAY WEATHER

WITH BEACH BBQ LIMITED EDITION FOR FÈIS ÌLE 2022

Award-winning Islay Malt, Big Peat, today reveals his special bottling for Fèis Ìle 2022: Big Peat Beach BBQ Edition.

Offered at a natural cask strength of 54.2%, the new release is strictly limited to 3,000 bottles globally. Fans of the “cult” Islay Malt can expect tasting notes of “smoky, maple-cured bacon”, “charred oak” and “chewy salted toffee”.

The limited edition Scotch Whisky is packaged in a premium gift tube, with the brand’s “signature” yellow colourways complemented by deep navy. Big Peat himself is shown at the helm of the barbeque, grilling smoky meats to pair with his Islay Malt, amidst a tempestuous Hebridean rainstorm. Gloss varnish brings to life the raindrops on the packaging in a tactile, eye-catching finish.

In support of the launch, the team behind the iconic Islay Malt brand have partnered with the artisan pizza restaurant in Islay’s capital of Bowmore – the aptly-named “Peatzeria”. Together, they’ll host two exclusive, now sold-out tasting sessions during Fèis Ìle, where ticket holders will get the chance to sample different Big Peat expressions and even an extremely old and rare Port Ellen Malt, paired with fresh local delicacies.

Available exclusively via DouglasLaing.com, Islay Malt enthusiasts are also presented the chance to purchase one of just 70 Big Peat tasting packs, culminating in an interactive online tasting on 20^th June.

Commenting on the special edition bottling, Cara Laing, Marketing Director, said:

“An authentic Scottish summer doesn’t always bring blue skies and golden rays, but come rain or shine, our feisty Ileach fisherman is ready to embrace a smoke-filled beach barbecue in celebration of Fèis Ìle! Hand-selected for their charred meat, salty sea-air flavour profile, this remarkable limited edition is a marriage of Single Cask Single Malts, only from Islay. Big Peat looks forward to headlining the Islay Festival with a series of tasting events, both in person and online, bringing the true taste of Islay to whisky enthusiasts the world over. After all, he is Seriously Committed to SMOKE!”

Big Peat’s Beach BBQ Fèis Ìle 2022 Limited Edition will be available from specialist Whisky retailers in the UK, Europe and Asia, plus online retailers, from May 2022. It carries a suggested retail price of £55.00 / €65.00.

ABOUT BIG PEAT

Instagram: @bigpeatwhisky

Facebook: /bigpeat

Established in 2009 by Douglas Laing & Co, Big Peat has amassed a somewhat cult following throughout his tenure in the world of Whisky. The multi award-winning small batch Scotch is a marriage of Single Cask Single Malts distilled only on Islay, including those distilled at Ardbeg, Bowmore, Caol Ila and Port Ellen Distilleries, amongst others. Celebrated for “his” trademark smoky, sooty, ashy and sweet flavour profile, Big Peat is offered at high alcohol strength and always without colouring or chill-filtration. Since 2019, “his” core range encompasses a 12 Years Old offering for specialist retailer, and “he” proudly unveils a limited edition bottling for Christmas each year, too.

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”.

All aboard – Bimber Distillery announces The Spirit of the Underground Release No.3

Following being chosen as a finalist at the 2022 Brand and Lifestyle Awards (B&LLA), London’s Bimber Distillery today announced the launch of the third release of The Spirit of the Underground Collection, produced in conjunction with Transport for London (TfL).

Release No.3 showcases four new stations: Camden Town, Canary Wharf, Notting Hill Gate and Tower Hill – each featuring stunning iconography presenting unique pieces of London’s history, and adorned with striking labels and packaging design that observes the significance of each station’s location.

Each of the four releases in Release No.3 has undergone a secondary maturation in a different fortified wine cask – with three of the stations showcasing cask types that have not previously been released by the distillery. Each is bottled at natural cask strength and without chill filtration.

The Collection, which will total 44 individual releases, features a selection of iconic single malt whiskies that celebrate the heritage and diversity of the distillery’s home city. With stunning individual designs, each bottle presents a different Tube station on the London Underground network – the oldest underground passenger railway service in the world.

Release No.3 of The Spirit of the Underground Collection will be available directly from Bimber’s Spirit of the Underground website from Monday 16^th till Thursday 19^th May via a weighted ballot, and with an RRP of £125 per bottle.

Speaking of the launch of  the third release in the collection, Matt McKay Bimber’s Director of Marketing and Communications said: “We’re delighted to reveal the next four stations that will be joining The Spirit of the Underground Collection. For this release we’ve selected four outstanding casks which showcase our ever-broadening selection of flavour profiles. Each of these fortified wine casks has brought both a unique influence and a different perspective to our distinctive London spirit. And we’re particularly excited to be using Release 3 to unveil three entirely new casks styles that we have added into our growing cask inventory.

Ellen Sankey, Brand Licensing Manager at TfL added: “We are delighted to see Bimber Distillery further capture our unique brand with this latest release, which nods to both TfL’s and the capital’s rich heritage. Innovative collaborations such as this are a great example of how brands can work with us and let their customers have a little bit of London in their home.”

All the expressions in The Spirit of the Underground Collection were crafted to Bimber’s exacting standards. The spirit was produced from the distillery’s single farm barley and malted on a dedicated floor at Warminster Maltings before being fermented for seven days in bespoke, on-site constructed American oak washbacks. Distillation took place in Bimber’s customised stills which possess an increased copper surface area, which results in a rich fruit-forward, layered spirit.

The Spirit of the Underground Collection – Release No.3

The Spirit of the Underground – Notting Hill Gate

Moscatel Sherry Cask Finish – Ref 285/21

Nose: Tinned pineapple and peach juices are sweetened further by brown sugars whilst macerated orange peels join homemade lemonade

Palate: Richly composed with clementine and nectarine strudel served with a side plate of cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg dusted baked apple

Finish: Toasted oak and shaved chocolate join spent coffee grounds

342 bottles

70cl

59% ABV

The Spirit of the Underground – Camden Town

Amontillado Sherry Cask Finish – Ref 288.23 

Nose: Chopped hazelnuts, rye bread and manuka honey join orange zest, lemon oils and nutmeg

Palate: Almond paste and hazelnuts sit with pepper and chilli-spiced waffles, whilst bright orchard and citrus fruits mingle with honey and chocolate syrup

Finish: Nutty with lingering piquant spice

351 bottles

70cl

58.5% ABV

The Spirit of the Underground – Canary Wharf

Marsala Cask Finish – Ref 298/9

Nose: Mandarin peels, cooking apples and toasted almonds sit atop of warmed honey and delicately spiced oak

Palate: Orange zest and candied lemon peels give way to effervescent spicing from ginger, nutmeg and clove whilst mentholated oak joins chocolate covered almond brittle

Finish: Lasting spice and char sit with enduring fruit sugars 

320 bottles

70cl

58.1% ABV

The Spirit of the Underground – Tower Hill

Palo Cortado Sherry Cask Finish – Ref 302/13

Nose: Delicate dried slices of apricot and orange join richer sherry-led spices whilst white chocolate and caramel are livened by vanilla and white pepper

Palate: Bright apple and citrus fruits are further enriched by toffee, caramel, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg whilst gently charred oak sits with espresso beans

Finish: Coffee and walnut cake invigorated by tangy cask spices

348 bottles

70cl

58.7% ABV

About Bimber 

Bimber Distillery produces world-class single malt whisky, handcrafted with passion in West London. As a leading distiller of English whisky, we combine generations of rich distilling heritage with the finest quality ingredients to create the ultimate craft whisky experience.

About Transport for London 

Transport for London (TfL) is the integrated transport authority responsible for delivering Mayor of London Sadiq Khan’s strategy and commitments on transport. It runs the day-to-day operation of the Capital’s public transport network, including London Underground, London Overground, Docklands Light Railway, London Buses and TfL Rail services, as well as managing London’s main roads. TfL does all it can to support the millions of journeys that are made every day and keep the city moving, working and growing. TfL reinvests all income generated through fares and commercial revenue to run and improve services and is committed to reducing costs. The licensing deal for this product was delivered through TSBA Group, TfL’s brand licensing partner.

BIG PEAT PRODUCES ONE OF ONE BOTTLE FOR UKRAINE 2022

Douglas Laing’s flagship Islay Malt Scotch Whisky brand, Big Peat, has produced an “extremely rare” one of one bottle for Ukraine 2022.

Containing a “unique” marriage of Islay Single Malts – 99% of the content being from the now-closed Port Ellen Distillery – those interested in winning this rare bottle are invited to donate £5 to Big Peat’s free raffle via Douglas Laing’s website (https://www.douglaslaing.com/products/donate-5-to-support-ukraine-enter-raffle-to-win-rare-big-peat-bottle). Donations opened on 26^th April 2022 and to date, have surpassed £3,000.00. Big Peat will continue to collect donations until 31^st May 2022, at which point Douglas Laing & Co will take the names of all donors and enter them into a free raffle – selecting a winner at random. All proceeds will be donated to the Disaster Emergency Committee’s Ukrainian Humanitarian Appeal, who provide essential food, water, shelter and medical assistance to support families fleeing conflict.

The bottle is presented in Ukrainian blue and yellow colourways, with premium print finishes and a yellow wax dip seal. Big Peat’s iconic, earthy-coloured artwork has been muted to grey in the background as a symbol of “respect” and “solidarity”. Beneath the cork capsule, the spirit inside is said to reveal notes of “warm sand, phenols and peated barley balanced by a caramel sweetness” and is offered at 48.1% alcohol strength, without colouring or chill-filtration – adhering the Douglas Laing family’s “as natural as it gets” ethos.

Commenting on Big Peat’s free raffle, Cara Laing, Marketing Director said:

“The Douglas Laing team have been watching the humanitarian disaster in Ukraine and wanted to do something to help. We tasked Fred Laing with creating a very special bottling (just one bottle) of Big Peat containing particularly rare and old Single Malts – 99% of which are from the legendary Port Ellen Distillery. We now hope Whisky enthusiasts are excited by both the exceptional spirit and the chance to help our friends in Ukraine.”

ABOUT BIG PEAT

Instagram: @bigpeatwhisky

Facebook: /bigpeat

Established in 2009 by Douglas Laing & Co, Big Peat has amassed a somewhat cult following throughout his tenure in the world of Whisky. The multi award-winning small batch Scotch is a marriage of Single Cask Single Malts distilled only on Islay, including those distilled at Ardbeg, Bowmore, Caol Ila and Port Ellen Distilleries, amongst others. Celebrated for “his” trademark smoky, sooty, ashy and sweet flavour profile, Big Peat is offered at high alcohol strength and always without colouring or chill-filtration. Since 2019, “his” core range encompasses a 12 Years Old offering for specialist retailer, and “he” proudly unveils a limited edition bottling for Christmas each year, too. 

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”.

Macaloney Distillers resolves dispute with Scotch Whisky Association over whisky labelling and wins big at 2022 World Whiskies Awards, UK.

Macaloney Brewer & Distillers Ltd (MBD) and the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) have resolved their branding dispute after reaching agreement on the re-labelling of Macaloney’s single malt whiskies. MBD also recently also took another medal haul at the World Whiskies Awards including ‘Worlds Best’.

The SWA settlement agreement follows the lawsuit filed by the SWA in the B.C. Supreme Court on 5^th March 2021 where they expressed concern over the use of various branding terms ‘evocative of Scotland’. Dr. Graeme Macaloney, MBD’s President and Whiskymaker, a native Scot and proud Canadian, commented:

“We are delighted to announce that we have come to an agreement with the SWA. As a result, we will be rebranding our distillery and its associated tours and beer garden to ‘Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery’”.

“I am doubly pleased to announce that recently at the prestigious World Whiskies Awards in London, UK, our whiskies took ‘Canadian Best Single Malt’ for our signature expression formerly known as Glenloy, ‘Canadian Best Triple Distilled Potstill Whisky’ for our ‘Killeigh’ whisky, and ‘Worlds Best New Make-Young Spirit’ for our seaweed-peated spirit”.

With its SWA agreement and World Whiskies Awards medal haul in hand, MDB is now seeking to recoup its legal costs, and is actively selling its world-award-winning, single malt whiskies, direct to consumers across Canada and USA via its Canadian (www.MacaloneyDistillers.com) and US (https://shop-us.mcaledonian.com/)  online shops, which deliver direct to households across N. America.

With COVID-19 restrictions lifted, distillery tours (5 stars on TripAdvisor) and beer garden tastings (including chocolates and whisky) at Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery are now fully back in swing.

GLEN SCOTIA TO HOST ITS FIRST GLOBAL WHISKY TASTING LIVE FROM THE CAMPBELTOWN MALTS FESTIVAL 

Glen Scotia is calling on whisky fans from around the world to get their tickets to its first live global whisky tasting, the Global Gathering, taking place on the 26^th and 27^th of May 2022.

Part of Glen Scotia’s programme of activities at this year’s Campbeltown Malts Festival (24^th-27^th May), the virtual tastings are expected to welcome people from near and far as they come together to enjoy drams from the award-winning distiller.

Glen Scotia Distillery Manager and Master Distiller, Iain McAlister, will lead the gathering live from the Dunnage Warehouse in the heart of Glen Scotia’s distillery. The first will take place on Thursday, 26^th May at 5.30pm GMT and the second on Friday, 27^th May at 11am GMT.

Through a guided tasting, he will explore the profile of five Glen Scotia drams in the tasting pack, including the brand’s increasingly scarce 25-year-old expression which was recently named World’s Best Whisky.

As well as offering insights into the craftsmanship, profile and flavour of each dram, Iain will be taking questions from attendees in-person and those virtually around the world. Virtual attendees will have the opportunity to post questions, join polls and become fully immersed in the Festival experience.

Launched in 2008, the Campbeltown Malts Festival is a three-day celebration of the region known as the ‘Victorian Whisky Capital of the World’ due to its illustrious past and the role whisky-making has played in the town for centuries. The event will also mark an incredible twelve months of achievements for the Glen Scotia distillery after it was awarded ‘Best in Show’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Awards and later Scottish Distillery of the Year in December of last year. It is the first time a distillery has achieved both accolades, let alone in the same year.

Guests without the Malts Festival tasting pack are also being encouraged to sign up and use their home stock to enjoy the discussion and insight into the distillery that has achieved remarkable global success.

Glen Scotia’s Distillery Manager & Master Distiller, Iain McAlister, said, “The Campbeltown Malts Festival marks our favourite moment of the year. It is the time when we look forward to welcoming visitors to the distillery, but we know there are a great many friends and fans around the world that can’t be with us in person this year. I am excited to bring a piece of the Festival to our global guests and raise a dram with them from afar.”

Glen Scotia tasting pack, £40, is available to purchase at: www.glenscotia.com/pages/whisky-festival-2022-live. Each pack contains a dram of the core Glen Scotia range including the Glen Scotia 25-year-old, Double Cask, Victoriana, 15-year-old and 18-year-old.

Guests can register for the free virtual event at: www.glenscotia.com/pages/glen-scotia-global-gathering.

About Glen Scotia

Distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832 and is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown. The distillery still maintains much of its original design, including the fermenters, the stillroom, and the dunnage warehouse dating from the 1830s.To this day, the distillery team follow in the footsteps of their founders, using traditional methods, carefully creating the unique Campbeltown maritime style the brand has become world-famous for.

In 2021, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch whisky was awarded ‘Best In Show Whisky’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Over 3,800 entries across thirty-one categories were judged with Glen Scotia being awarded the overall winner across all countries and styles. In addition to this, Glen Scotia was also named Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards, an accolade it received just seven months after being crowned as the ‘Best in Show.’

Twitter: @GlenScotiaMalts

Instagram: @glenscotiamalts

Facebook: @GlenScotiaWhisky

From The Birthplace Of Japanese Whisky,

THE HOUSE OF SUNTORY INTRODUCES

2022 LIMITED EDITION

YAMAZAKI® TSUKURIWAKE SELECTION

The Yamazaki® Tsukuriwake Selection is a collection of four Yamazaki single malts that together make the composition of Yamazaki, the pioneer of Japanese Single Malt

Chicago, IL (May 17, 2022) – With the launch of the 2022 Yamazaki® Limited Edition Tsukuriwake Selection, the House of Suntory unveils a fundamental piece of its unrivaled craftsmanship and introduces the foundational pillars of Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky – Puncheon, Peated Malt, Spanish Oak and Mizunara. The collection honors Tsukuriwake, which means “artisanship through a diversity of making” and is embraced by the Founding House of Japanese Whisky.

From its launch in 1984, Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky has always been crafted to be revered for its profound and spiritual nature, its complexity and multi-layered nuance, consistently featuring the foundational pillars – Puncheon, Peated Malt, Spanish Oak and Mizunara. Innovation in Japanese Whisky is known to occur at the back end – in maturation or blending. But few understand the diversity of the whisky components that it takes to achieve this depth and gravitas. The House of Suntory’s Tsukuriwake in Yamazaki uniquely prides itself in multiple strengths of non-peated and peated grain varieties, two types of wash backs, eight pairs with various shapes of pot stills and maturation in four different oak casks (French, Spanish, Japanese and American) with three cask size differences in American Oak. This makes Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky, a Single Malt quite like no other.

“What excited me most about this launch is that just one year before the 100th anniversary of Suntory Whisky, we can finally share the full story behind our Tsukuriwake way of whisky making, which was born from the Founding House of Japanese Whisky,” says Suntory’s Fifth-Generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo. “The 2022 Yamazaki Limited Edition Tsukuriwake Selection honors the fact that greatness comes from diversity. And in doing so, we unveil what truly makes Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky the authority of Japanese Whisky.”

The story of Yamazaki is the story of Japanese Whisky. In 1923, when Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt distillery in Yamazaki, he had no one with whom to exchange and broaden his malt repertoire. Being the Founding House of Japanese Whisky meant that the House of Suntory had no choice but to build its own approach to crafting whisky. Experimenting with a variety of grain types, wash backs, distillation methods, casks and blending techniques resulting in the House of Suntory’s globally acclaimed Tsukuriwake style – artisanship through a diversity of making. Through years of experimentation, repeated trial and error, perseverance and persistence, it took three generations, three Master Blenders and five Chief Blenders to transform what happened out of necessity into one of the key signatures of the House of Suntory. Suntory continues to produce a depth and breadth of malt whisky components that keep pushing the boundaries of what Suntory Whisky can be.

The 2022 Yamazaki Limited Edition Tsukuriwake Selection, initially released in Japan in 2020, will be available in the next month in select global markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Austria, Spain, Singapore, Taiwan, China, South Korea, Thailand and Australia. Each expression is bottled at 48% ABV and has a suggested  retail price of $450 USD with the exception of the Mizunara bottling, which has a suggested retail price of $620 USD. 

YAMAZAKI PUNCHEON

The Puncheon is considered as the “heart” of what makes Yamazaki Single Malt, Yamazaki.

The Yamazaki Puncheon Single Malt Whisky is comprised of meticulously selected malts aged exclusively in puncheons crafted by Suntory artisans from hand selected American oak. With a capacity of approximately 480 liters, these large casks allow malt whiskies to mature slowly, imbuing them with a complexity and vibrance. The Puncheon cask malt whiskies impart their subtle notes essential to the delicate base of the Yamazaki Single Malt.

Tasting Notes

Color: Pale gold

Nose: Green apple, mature pear, acacia honey with hint of vanilla

Palate: Clean, velvety and mild, with delicate butterscotch notes

Finish: Oaky woodiness with subtle sweetness

YAMAZAKI PEATED MALT

The Peated Malt is considered the “hidden accent” giving Yamazaki its complexity and lingering finish.

The Yamazaki Peated Malt is comprised of meticulously selected heavily peated malted barley that is masterfully blended to create the quintessential Yamazaki Peated Malt that is gentle and refined. The Peated malt whiskies impart their subtly smoky, earthy notes essential to the complexity of the Yamazaki Single Malt.

Tasting Notes

Color: Bright gold

Nose: Subtly smoky with green herbal notes

Palate: Gently peated with hints of earthiness, pineapple and citrus notes

Finish: Complex with lingering peatiness

YAMAZAKI SPANISH OAK

The Spanish Oak is considered as the depth-enhancer giving Yamazaki its quintessential multi-layered full flavor with mature fruity notes. The Yamazaki Spanish Oak is comprised of meticulously selected malt whiskies matured in the highest quality oak casks originating from Northern Spain. The Spanish oak cask malt whiskies impart a delicately rich and decadent palate with subtle acidity and fruity aromas, essential to the multi-layered flavor profile of the Yamazaki Single Malt.

Tasting Notes

Color: Rich reddish amber

Nose: Dried raisins and prunes, with hints of sundried tomatoes

Palate: Delicately rich and decadent with subtle acidity

Finish: Buttery with lingering acidity and hint of bitterness

YAMAZAKI MIZUNARA

Mizunara is a species of oak native to Japan and is considered the signature enhancer giving Yamazaki its quintessential Japanese character and elegance. Whiskies which undergo a long maturation in Mizunara casks take on a distinctive Japanese spiciness and incense-like flavor of sandalwood and agarwood. The Yamazaki Mizunara Single Malt Whisky is comprised of meticulously selected long-matured malt whiskies showcasing the rare, distinctive beauty of the hand crafted Mizunara casks. The Mizunara cask malt whiskies impart their enigmatic spicy notes essential to the signature taste of the Yamazaki Single Malt.

Tasting Notes

Color: Amber

Nose: Rich and elegant top note, custard cream, cinnamon

Palate: Gentle on the tongue, aromatic and round with spiced sweet notes

Finish: Distinctive deep woody notes reminiscent of Japanese incense

ABOUT HOUSE OF SUNTORY

Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as the pioneer of Japanese whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son and Suntory’s second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014).

Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio includes two single malt whiskies:  Yamazaki—Japan’s N°1 Single Malt, multi-layered and profound, and Hakushu—verdant, fresh, and delicately smoky; and two blends: the noble blend, Hibiki—Japan’s most highly awarded blended whisky and Suntory Whisky Toki.whisky.suntory.com                @suntorywhisky                     #suntorywhisky

ABOUT BEAM SUNTORY:
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark® bourbon brands and Courvoisier® cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Basil Hayden®, Knob Creek®, and Legent™ bourbon; Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™ Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore® Scotch whisky; Canadian Club® whisky; Hornitos® and Sauza® tequila; EFFEN®, Haku® and Pinnacle® vodka; Sipsmith® and Roku™ gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good, which now includes its transformative sustainability strategy, Proof Positive. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com

Before single malt develops, a clear, flavourful liquid called new make is produced. More and more distilleries are choosing to share their aromatic and complex new make spirits with an intrigued public. Holyrood are proud to be creating a historically inspired, yet innovative range of liquids, that reflect their working style and ethos, an exciting prelude to the brand’s inaugural single malt whisky which will be released later this year.

Holyrood Distillery is proud to be bringing new make and sake together to create this special edition bottle. The new Japanese yeast concept has been developed by Distiller, Conor O’Keeffe who commented: “While reading ‘On the production Methods of Pot Still Whisky’ by Masataka Taketsuru, I was inspired by his comparisons between Sake and Whisky production and it led us to look into some of the yeasts used in sake making. We quickly settled on Sake #7 for its distinct strawberry notes and the wonderful full texture. It’s combining two very ancient traditions to create something totally new.” 

The celebratory new make sits alongside Holyrood’s innovative, Brewer’s Series, which is inspired by Edinburgh’s illustrious brewing history and plays with different elements of the brewing process, from yeast selections to specialty malt ratios. Whether you drink it neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail, new make is proving increasingly popular both with whisky afficandoes and newcomers to the scene.

Established in 2019, Holyrood is Edinburgh’s first single malt distillery since 1925. Built with a vision to create a new kind of whisky distillery, one that would reflect the diverse and modern city of Edinburgh. With each new release the distillery is keen to set the standard as new wave Scotch makers who aren’t afraid to experiment outside of the traditional whisky making sphere

Gordon & MacPhail releases 70-Year-Old whisky to commemorate HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 

Whisky creators Gordon & MacPhail have revealed a very special single malt whisky to honour the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1952 from Glen Grant Distillery has spent the past 70 years maturing in a first fill Sherry butt, the same amount of time that Her Majesty has been on the throne. It was bottled on 6^th February, the date of the Queen’s accession, and serves as a fitting tribute, exemplifying how character, patience and wisdom can mature over decades to deliver an exceptional legacy.

In support of the Queen’s ‘green canopy’ initiative and build on the successful 2021 partnership with Scottish charity Trees for Life, Gordon & MacPhail is donating a further £20,000 from the proceeds of the release.

Ewen Mackintosh, Gordon & MacPhail Managing Director, said: “It’s an honour to release this exceptional single malt whisky to commemorate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Matured over seven decades in our own casks this single malt provides an opportunity to enjoy a style of Speyside whisky which is distinctly different to those created today. 

“Our approach to ensuring our casks, made from the highest quality wood to our exact specifications, is a one which sits right at the heart of our business. We want to do our bit to support The Queen’s ‘Green Canopy’ initiative by continuing our successful partnership with Tress for Life. The monies donated from this release will provide funding for their nursery which grows 100,000 rare and native trees, including oaks, from seed each year. It’s fitting that this whisky will provide a legacy that will last for generations.” 

Just 256 bottles of the ultra-rare commemorative whisky are available worldwide from the single cask laid down in 1952, some of the oldest Glen Grant whisky ever released from Gordon & MacPhail’s revered warehouse in Elgin. Distilled on 26^th January 1952 and spending its entire maturation in cask no. 381, a first-fill Sherry butt, the Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1952 from Glen Grant Distillery was bottled on 6^th February 2022 at a cask strength of 52.3% ABV.

Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1952 from Glen Grant Distillery has an RSP of £20,000. Prices may vary in international markets as a result of duty and taxes. 

For more information, visit www.gordonandmacphail.com

#GordonandMacPhail

Tasting notes – Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1952 from Glen Grant distillery
Matured in cask 381, a first-fill Sherry butt, and bottled at 52.3% ABV. Outturn of 256 bottles. 

COLOUR

Dark Gold.

AROMA

Notes of BEESWAX POLISH give way to HONEYED ripe FIG aromas, TOFFEE and ORANGE ZEST. Aged leather complements RUM and RAISIN.

TASTE

STEWED BLACKBERRY compote, SWEET CLEMENTINE and MILK CHOCOLATE flavours are followed by DRIED TOBACCO LEAF and a MENTHOL undertone. 

FINISH

A long finish with a touch of SMOKE and a hint of PEPPER.

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 

About Trees for Life

Founded in 1993, Trees for Life is an award-winning charity with a vision of a revitalised wild forest in the Scottish Highlands, providing space for wildlife to flourish and communities to thrive. “It is our passionate belief that rewilding can help us achieve this vision,” says chief executive, Steve Micklewright. “It enriches the landscapes, wildlife and people who call these places home. Rewilding is about working with nature, natural processes and seeing human activity as part of an intricate system in which everything is connected.” www.treesforlife.org.uk

INTRODUCING REDBREAST DREAM CASK DOUBLE CASK EDITION

A magnificent limited-edition release to celebrate World Whisky Day

Redbreast Irish Whiskey, produced by Irish Distillers at its world-renowned Midleton Distillery in Co. Cork, is launching the fifth edition in its celebrated Dream Cask series to mark World Whisky Day 2022.

Redbreast Dream Cask Double Cask Edition is a 30 year old single pot still Irish whiskey which captures the quintessential Redbreast style while celebrating innovation and craftmanship. The fifth edition represents a truly unique addition to the series, marrying two dream casks, hand selected by Master Blender, Billy Leighton and Blender, Dave McCabe, to create one exceptional whiskey.

To create this extraordinary whiskey, Leighton and McCabe each hand selected their favourite cask from Midleton’s inventory before combining them to create one heavenly whiskey. The first cask, chosen by Leighton, was originally laid down in a first fill oloroso sherry butt in May 1990, while the second – chosen by McCabe – was laid down in a first fill bourbon barrel in November 1991. Each cask, reflective of the two distinct components of the Redbreast DNA, was chosen at its optimum maturity, then combined to showcase the unique traits imparted by each of the following three decades of ageing.

“Bottling these outstanding casks together at precisely the right moment has resulted in an incredibly complex Irish whiskey that harmoniously balances the vanilla sweetness and caramel creaminess from the bourbon barrel and the deep, dark fruitiness from the sherry butt,” explains Leighton.

“With an ABV of 56.9%, the resulting liquid is rich in robust spice with wood-driven characteristics and notes of dark-roasted coffee, sweet liquorice, orange peel and smoked almonds amplified by the wine cask’s influence.”

Launching for World Whisky Day, 714 bottles of Redbreast Dream Cask Double Cask Edition will be available exclusively through an online ballot hosted on Redbreast’s online members’ club  The Birdhouse at an RRP of €550. Each of the 500ml bottles will be presented in a keepsake book, made from recyclable cardboard*, detailing the latest instalment in the Dream Cask journey. 

“The Dream Cask collection has always been about sharing our most rare and special casks with Redbreast fans around the world and we are thrilled to showcase two distinct casks within this release,” explains Leighton.

“For this 2022 expression, we set out to create a perfectly aged single pot still whiskey that captured the qualities and virtues of its Dream Cask predecessors, but with a new and distinctive twist of marrying these two casks just at the point of bottling. We are delighted with the results and are excited to share this next chapter in the unfolding story of Redbreast.”

McCabe adds: “The traditional Redbreast style is so often associated with the influence of sherry casks that we sometimes overlook the role bourbon casks play in its composition. I am honoured to have been able to select my perfectly aged dream bourbon cask for this year’s Dream Cask and to pay homage to that unbeatable harmony that makes Redbreast so special.

“We are incredibly fortunate that we have the variety of aged stock at Midleton Distillery to explore and make our dreams a reality. Sharing our discovery with whiskey drinkers across the world is one of the most exciting and joyful aspects of my role to date.”

The ballot will be open for entries from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, England, Scotland and Wales from 23^rd May. When the ballot closes on 30^th May, successful participants will be given an opportunity to purchase a limited-edition bottle of Dream Cask Double Cask Edition.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A rich and complex balance of aromas. A suggestion of dried herbs and earthy tones combine with hints of antique furniture, anise, hazelnut and tobacco. Autumnal fruits, black cherry and cassis build in perfect harmony with oak and sherry wine influences.

Taste: Lucious and full with warming spices and soft tannins at first. Notes of dark roasted coffee, honey-menthol and sweet liquorice follow, complementing the pot still spices. Orange peel and smoked almonds add their own unique and subtle touch.

Finish: Long and satisfyingly rich with the precise balance of fruits, spices and oak lingering until the very end.

* After removing the ribbon and magnets, the cardboard book is recyclable in Ireland and most major markets. 

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines, and producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys. Led by Jameson, our brands are driving the global renaissance of Irish whiskey. Jameson is the world’s bestselling Irish whiskey, experiencing 30 years of consecutive growth up to 2019 and hitting sales of 8.6m cases in 2021. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. Since 2012, we have invested over €400 million to double our production and bottling capacity to meet global demand for our products.

We employ over 600 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin.

About Pernod Ricard 

Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirits with consolidated sales of €8,824 million in FY21. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has developed through organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard, which owns 16 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive brand portfolios in the industry, including: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard’s brands are distributed across 160+ markets and by its own salesforce in 73 markets. The Group’s decentralised organisation empowers its 19,000 employees to be true on-the-ground ambassadors of its vision of “Créateurs de Convivialité.” As reaffirmed by the Group’s three-year strategic plan, “Transform and Accelerate,” deployed in 2018, Pernod Ricard’s strategy focuses on investing in long-term, profitable growth for all stakeholders. The Group remains true to its three founding values: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust, and a strong sense of ethics. As illustrated by the 2030 roadmap supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “We bring good times from a good place.” In recognition of Pernod Ricard’s strong commitment to sustainable development and responsible consumption, it has received a Gold rating from Ecovadis and is ranked No. 1 in the beverage sector in Vigeo Eiris. Pernod Ricard is also a United Nation’s Global Compact LEAD company.

Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40