Kentucky Tornado Victims to Benefit from 

Buffalo Trace Distillery Auction of Unprecedented Whiskey Flights of Pappy Van Winkle and Antique Collection 

Online Auction Offers Full Line Up of Two of the Distillery’s Rarest and Most Valuable Whiskey Collections

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Dec. 20, 2021) Like so many people in Kentucky and around the world, the team at Buffalo Trace Distillery is devastated by the losses caused by the tornadoes that tore through the Midwest and South this past weekend.  Mercifully, the company’s 2,300 team members in the area and its ten operations are unscathed, although some of its team members experienced tragedy with their extended families, including loss of life.

To help raise funds, Buffalo Trace and the Van Winkle family are partnering with Menish Productions on two very rare and unique whiskey flights, available via online auction starting Monday, Dec. 20 at 9 a.m. and running through Thursday, Dec. 23^rd at 7 p.m. Up for bid are a complete flight of Pappy Van Winkle and a complete flight of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, including a 2020 George T. Stagg.  All of these whiskies are very collectible, and for the first time ever, the Distillery is donating a bottle of each expression from both of the lineups for this charitable cause.

“The toll these tornadoes and severe weather took on our fellow Kentuckians and others in the Midwest and South is shocking,” said Mark Brown, chief executive officer, Buffalo Trace Distillery.  “We hope our bourbon community, who we know can be very generous, really shows its support and we’re able to raise an unheralded amount of funds for Western Kentucky disaster relief.”

The auction, which goes live at 9 a.m. on Dec. 20^th, will feature two packages, a complete Van Winkle collection which includes Old Rip Van Winkle 10 year old, Van Winkle 12 year old “Lot B,” Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye, Pappy Van Winkle 15 year old, Pappy Van Winkle 20 year and Pappy Van Winkle 23 year old.  The auction winners will have the option to have the set autographed by Julian and Preston Van Winkle.

The second whiskey package is a complete set of Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, which includes William Larue Weller, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, Eagle Rare 17 Year Old, Sazerac Rye 18 Year Old and a 2020 George. T. Stagg (130.4 proof). The auction winners will have the option to have the set autographed by Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley and Buffalo Trace President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Brown.

Details on the auction and how to bid can be found HERE  All proceeds from the auction will go to disaster relief in Western  Kentucky.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 35 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2018 and its William Larue Weller and Thomas H. Handy Sazerac were named 2^nd and 3^rd finest whiskeys in the world for 2020.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com

CASK WORLD MAKE HISTORY WITH LARGEST IMPORTATION OF MATURING SWEDISH WHISKY TO THE UK

A UK-based whisky brokerage has successfully shipped the largest single consignment of rare whisky casks from Sweden to Britain. New world whisky specialists Cask World recently announced the arrival of the 34 casks, holding thousands of litres of premium single malt from the renowned BOX Distillery, with the spirit – valued at approximately £1.2m – now continuing to mature in its new English home.

Whilst this shipment is significant in showing that trade with the EU can still be buoyant in the post-Brexit pandemic era, it also exemplifies growing global interest in non-Scotch whisky, with the spirit now increasingly in-bound to UK shores. Comparisons can be drawn with the new world wine revolution of recent decades, and Cask World have positioned themselves as pioneers of this movement. As a division of Rosewin Holdings PLC, this acquisition adds to their rapidly growing new world whisky portfolio, with the company proud to lay these barrels down alongside some of the incredible whiskies now being produced on all continents.

The pedigree and rarity of this shipment should not be underestimated. At the time these casks were filled, BOX was the world’s northernmost whisky distillery, sitting just inside the Arctic Circle at 63° North. A forerunner of the current Swedish whisky boom and renowned for its vision to be the first truly green whisky producer, BOX quickly gained recognition for the quality of its spirit, which uses pristine local spring water, excellent Swedish barley, and ultra-clean air. Additionally, the huge temperature fluctuations between summer and winter in the region cause unique interactions between the maturing liquid and the wood, all combining to give special depth and character to the BOX final product.

All filled between 2011-2015, the eldest barrels to have made the journey across the North Sea are just turning a decade old. These are also believed to be some of the final remaining stock filled under the BOX name (the producer changed to ‘High Coast’ following a naming dispute in 2018). When eventually bottled, they could therefore be the last in existence to bear the ‘Distilled at BOX Distillery, Sweden’ label.

Currently ranging from six to ten years old, this cask collection contains a broad array of exciting cask/spirit combinations. Cask World’s founder Daniel Monk explains:

“This is a true box of delights – we’ve got wood ranging from virgin American, German, French, and Swedish Oak through to ex-sherry, bourbon, port, Madeira, and even an ex-Laphroaig cask! And those barrels feature toasting and charring levels across the entire spectrum from light through to ‘high mocha’. 23 of the casks hold unpeated and 11 hold peated whisky. It could be said that this collection is a perfect microcosm of the wonderful variation and innovation we are now witnessing in the global whisky scene.”

BOX started producing in 2011, with their first offerings to the domestic market in 2014. The Swedes, a nation of discerning whisky lovers, reportedly snapped up the 11,500 bottles in minutes. A similar story ensued for all the distillery’s subsequent releases, with their slightly longer aged (up to six years old) and independent bottlings regularly achieving price points well in excess of £100. Indeed, High Coast have recently released their inaugural 10 year old bottling to the Swedish market (evidently using spirit distilled early in the BOX days) with an RRP. of £136 (SEK1650).

The above prices seem well justified, with the distillery winning a plethora of international awards under both the BOX and High Coast brands, such as their Best Swedish Single Malt for The Festival in 2017 and The Second Step Collection 01 in 2018 at the World Whiskies Awards. Their High Coast 63 (5 years old, £100) was awarded 91% by Whisky Saga with the comment, “Liquid magic from the wizards of the High Coast. This is how you do it!” To put this into perspective, Macallan’s Sherry Oak 18 year old (£300) scored 86%, and Highland Park’s 21 year old (£210) achieved 89%.

The BOX casks now resting in the English warehouse alongside other premium single malts are all well aged, with many ready for bottling. Cask World plan to release a quantity of them over the coming months, and interested parties can contact them to learn more via info@caskworld.com

Rosewin Holdings PLC and Cask World have spent recent years travelling the globe and building relationships with premium new world whisky producers. This collection of rare BOX casks was a calculated purchase, discovered during a trip to learn more about the thriving Swedish single malt industry. Aside from amassing a substantial portfolio of maturing world whisky both overseas and here in the UK, Cask World offer whisky enthusiasts and investors the opportunity to own maturing cask whisky from their network of partner distilleries. Check out https://www.caskworld.com/ to learn more and feel free to drop them a line as they love chatting about all things whisky!

The Fisherman’s Retreat has received two first place awards at the recent World Whisky Awards for its Editions 6.1 & 8 Scottish single malt whiskies.

CATEGORY WINNER –

SINGLE CASK 13 -20 Year old ISLAY

Edition 6.1 – Bruichladdich 14 Years Old was distilled on 23/05/2007 maturing in a Rivesaltes cask for 12.5 years before finishing in a Yalumba fortified wine cask from the Barossa valley for a further 18 months eventually being bottled on the 24/5/2021

CATEGORY WINNER –

SINGLE CASK 12 Years & Under ISLANDS (non Islay)

Edition 8 – Arran 7 Years old was distilled on the 27/08/2013 maturing in a Yalumba Viognier cask from the Barossa valley South Australia and was bottled on 09/02/2021

Hervey Magnall commented saying that he was delighted, and wished to thank the whole Fisherman’s Retreat team for all their dedication and hard work as well as thanking his good friends at Yalumba  vineyard.

Both releases are available via The Fisherman’s Retreat website

https://www.fishermansretreat.com/shop/

Bruichladdich Distillery Announces £2.65M Funding to Partner with Protium and Jericho Energy Ventures on Major Step Towards Decarbonisation Distillation

Distillery to receive funding for HyLaddie project that will pioneer sustainable green hydrogen energy technology

November 24, 2021 –Bruichladdich Distillery has today announced a significant step forward in its bold ambition to help decarbonise their distillation process by 2025, with major funding secured to pioneer industry-first technology. Innovative hydrogen combustion technology will be installed to heat the stills used to create Bruichladdich’s renowned Scotch, as well as their artisanal gin, The Botanist. The pilot project will demonstrate the ability to switch from fuel oil to sustainable hydrogen energy technology, covering part of the distilleries energy consumption in this early phase. It is a vital step towards decarbonising in the long term, where proof of concept could lead to many more adopting the technology. The green hydrogen boiler operates with zero greenhouse gas emissions, and is an example for distilleries across the globe to follow suit in reducing their carbon footprint.

The funding of £2.65m comes from the Green Distilleries Competition, funded through the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, and follows an initial feasibility study completed in the spring of 2021. It will allow Bruichladdich, and its energy partner Protium, to install an on‐site Dynamic Combustion Chamber™ (DCC™), a zero-emission hydrogen boiler patented by Jericho Energy Ventures’ (TSX-V: JEV; OTC: JROOF) wholly owned subsidiary Hydrogen Technologies LLCand licenced to Protium’s subsidiary, Deuterium, as a mechanism to meet heating requirements.

Dubbed HyLaddie, the project must navigate the installation of state-of-the-art technology within a fully operational Victorian distillery on the island of Islay, just off Scotland’s west coast. As a certified B Corp, Bruichladdich continually invests in its local community and hopes the project will demonstrate the capability of hydrogen to encourage commercialisation across Islay. A sustainable solution for the island’s remote location and infrastructure challenges, the heating technology has the potential to be integrated beyond distilling and into residential spaces, local government buildings, schools, hospitals, and beyond. In keeping with Bruichladdich’s industry-leading progressive practices, HyLaddie will also lay significant groundwork for similar-sized spirits producers across the world to up their own decarbonisation initiatives.

Douglas Taylor, CEO of Bruichladdich Distillery, comments, “Sustainability is in our DNA and is at the heart of everything we do. The funding for HyLaddie is a huge step towards our ambition of full decarbonisation and we can’t wait to bring the project to life with our partners at Protium. Many distilleries across Scotland are making serious steps forward in decarbonising their energy requirements, and we fully believe that hydrogen has a future in the Scotch industry. Our hope is that our proof of concept can extend to commercialisation across the island, and beyond, helping us hit the Scotch Whisky Association’s targets of net zero by 2040.”

This project marks the inaugural deployment of DCC™ in the UK following a feasibility assessment. The revolutionary technology is the only zero-emission, closed loop boiler that generates high temperature steam, using only oxygen and hydrogen that is reacted in a vacuum. The DCC™ does not require a smokestack or any other energy dissipating exhaust, eliminating any emissions of CO2, NOx and SOx. The only by-product of the reaction is water that can be recycled.

“We’re thrilled to work together with Bruichladdich, one of our first Scottish clients, to help decarbonise their distilling process and introduce hydrogen energy technology to the Isle of Islay,” remarked Chris Jackson, CEO of Protium. “Not only can Bruichladdich and The Botanist implement this technology to act as a beacon for sustainability in the spirits industry, but their deep community ties across Islay presents an exciting opportunity to mobilise an entire island as an example for decarbonisation across the globe.”

Commenting on the project, Brian Williamson, CEO of Jericho, said, “We are thrilled that the inaugural deployment of the DCC™ is with none-other than Bruichladdich, one of the most prestigious and progressive distilleries, who shares our vision of forging a sustainable future. We look forward to working with Bruichladdich and the Protium teams to implement the ambitious decarbonization project with our game-changing zero-emission technology.”

As the first B Corp certified distillery in the UK, Bruichladdich hasa long history of progressive sustainability practices that go beyond energy and into agriculture, community, packaging and waste. The distillery prioritises a higher purpose that benefits society and the environment, and is an industry leader in demonstrating business as a force for good.In line with HyLaddie and the sustainability initiatives from Bruichladdich Distillery, the news comes on the heels of an announcement from its parent company, Rémy Cointreau, who officially committed to the Science Based Targets by joining the “Business Ambition for 1.5°C” initiative -gathering companies with the most ambitious carbon reduction objectives. The Group also announced that its contribution to large-scale climate actions would enable it to achieve carbon neutrality from 2021/2022.

About Bruichladdich

Bruichladdich Distillery is located on the remote Scottish island of Islay and was built in 1881. The distillery crafts four different spirits including, Bruichladdich, unpeated Islay single malt Scotch whisky; Port Charlotte, heavily peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky (40PPM); Octomore, the world’s most heavily peated Scotch whisky series (80+PPM); and The Botanist Gin, the first Islay dry gin.

Bruichladdich Distillery matures and bottles all their single malts on the island of Islay. They are due to install on-site maltings in the near future, which will enable them to complete a proportion of their annual production on the island. Bruichladdich Distillery is the largest private employer on the island of Islay. www.bruichladdich.com

About Protium

Protium is a UK-based green hydrogen energy services company, engaged in designing, developing, financing, owning and operating green hydrogen and renewable energy infrastructure assets, to help our clients to achieve net zero energy emissions.

With offices in London and Caerphilly, and a growing presence in Scotland, they are pioneers in the transition to a distributed, decarbonised, future energy system. protium.green

About Jericho Energy Ventures

Jericho Energy Ventures (JEV) is a publicly traded, deep tech venture capital and incubator platform with roots in the hydrocarbon world, investing to accelerate the clean energy transition. JEV is highly leveraged to long-term decarbonization themes with a focus on the hydrogen value chain. JEV’s wholly owned subsidiary, Hydrogen Technologies, delivers patented, zero emission boiler technology to the $30 billion Commercial & Industrial heat and steam market.www.jerichoenergyventures.com

About Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy

The Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) brings together responsibilities for business, industrial strategy, science, research & innovation, energy &clean growth, and climate change. This funding has been made available from the government’s £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, which looks to accelerate the commercialisation of low-carbon technologies and systems, through its Green Distilleries Competition. The Green Distilleries Competition is providing funding for developing technologies that enable the use of low carbon fuel in a distillery.

A JOURNEYMAN HISTORIC RENOVATION OF EPIC PROPORTIONS BROKE GROUND IN VALPARAISO INDIANA

Worth the Wait

THREE OAKS, MI (December 6th, 2021) — On Dec. 3, Journeyman Distillery officially broke ground on a historic restoration project in Valparaiso, transforming the formerly abandoned Anco windshield wiper factory into a 140,000-square foot destination which includes plans for a distillery, brewery, whiskey garden, American fare restaurant and steakhouse, karaoke, and event spaces in carefully restored and repurposed factory spaces.

The site, located on the 300 block of South Campbell, dates to one of the first woolen mills in Porter County, established just after the Civil War. Through the years, the location was home to a wagon and carriage company, soap company, Fontaine Brothers Pin Factory, and, most recently as the Anco windshield wiper factory. Since the mid 1980s, the property has been virtually vacant.

“Journeyman Distillery in Valparaiso is an exciting next step for the Welter family,” said Journeyman Owner and Operator Bill Welter. Having first arrived in Valparaiso in the early 1900’s, the Welter family has had continuous business operations in the community since the early 1970’s. Bill Welter follows in the footsteps of father Chuck Welter and grandfather Bill Welter as he embarks on the latest adventure in Valparaiso.

“As a city, we recognized the potential of this property with its proximity to our historic downtown,” said Mayor Matt Murphy who was a member of the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission in 2017 when the commission acquired the brownfield property that included the factory. A year later, Bill Welter presented his vision of elevating the property by transforming it into a second Journeyman Distillery, similar in nature to the project in Three Oaks Michigan where Journeyman transformed the former Featherbone Corset Factory into a true destination including distillery, restaurant, and event space.

“The Valparaiso Journeyman Distillery will elevate this property to a true destination and provide further development opportunities for this excellent location adjacent to our downtown, including hundreds of jobs,” said Murphy. “Further, part of this exciting development will house the City’s Transit Center and the shared parking lot will also serve passengers of our Dash commuter bus service. We’re very excited to see this project take shape and thank all of the organizations and people who have come together to make it possible,” he said. Those organizations include the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission, Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA), Northern Indiana Regional Planning Commission (NIRPC), and the Indiana Economic Development Commission (IEDC).

Bill Welter spoke of tremendous gratitude and appreciation to the leadership in the community stating that “leap and the net will appear” indicating that the net in Valparaiso is strong and wide with the support of his Journeyman team, the community, and leadership from the city itself. Welter went on to thank Rob Thorgren and Patrick Lyp of the Redevelopment Commission, the IEDC, RDA, NPS, family and friends for the support given to the project. Welter went on to thank the loyal Journeyman fans, retailers, and restaurateurs for their support over the last decade of business. “We look forward to serving you in Valparaiso.”

“There is really nothing more exciting than talking about what could be, the possibilities of something great. The potential, the energy, is palatable here today,” said Welter. “The grit and determination that was needed to get here… if today is any indication, the sky is the limit.”

To prepare the location for development, the City of Valparaiso has invested in necessary environmental cleanup, preserved the historic water tower, and made infrastructure improvements, including aligning the street. “Today this property offers new promise to Valparaiso. Our vision for the future is being realized and we’re very pleased to welcome Journeyman,” said Murphy.

The groundbreaking celebration was attended by hundreds of supporters and included tours of the existing spaces as well as a peek at the plans. Journeyman intends to begin construction in the coming weeks, with plans to open in stages, beginning early in 2023. For more information about Journeyman Distillery, visit Journeyman.com.

Founded in 2010, Journeyman Distillery crafts, bottles, sells, and serves organic and kosher certified spirits at the historic Featherbone Factory in Three Oaks, Michigan. The distillery prides itself on using the highest quality grains sourced from Midwestern organic farmers in its award-winning spirits as well as at its Staymaker restaurant. Journeyman products are distributed in 19 states across the country and available for purchase direct from the distillery. Learn more and find your spirit at journeymandistillery.com.

Bourbon Community Comes Together

To Benefit Western Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the Bourbon Crusaders charitable organization and Bourbon curator Fred Minnick have crafted an epic fundraising event to support recovery and rebuilding efforts from the tornados that ravaged Western Kentucky.

The Kentucky Bourbon Benefit will feature an online and live auction of exclusive private barrel selection experiences, rare and vintage spirits, and unique tasting and tourism offerings from Kentucky’s signature distilling industry and hospitality and charitable partners.

“I’m overwhelmed by the outpouring of support in recent days,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “I appreciate our signature Bourbon industry quickly stepping up to raise much-needed money for Kentucky families that have lost so much in this tragedy.”

KDA President Eric Gregory said, “Kentuckians are hurting. They’ve lost their homes, loved ones and their livelihoods. It’s our obligation as a signature industry – and duty as fellow Kentuckians – to help each other in times of crisis.

“There is a real urgency here. These are our friends and neighbors, and they need help now.”

The online auction will begin Thursday, Dec. 16, at 5 p.m. EST and run until Tuesday, Dec. 21, at 10 p.m. A live-streamed auction will be held on Dec. 21 starting at 7 p.m. at Westport Whiskey & Wine in Louisville and will feature elite and immersive items from Kentucky’s legendary distillers.

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

All proceeds will go directly to the state’s official Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund to assist those impacted by the tornados and severe storms of Dec. 11. The website to learn more or make a donation is https://secure.kentucky.gov/formservices/Finance/WKYRelief.

“We’ve been the recipients of so much generous hospitality from the fine people of Kentucky,” said RJ Sargent, founder of The Bourbon Crusaders. “They’ve treated us like family. When we saw the chance to give back, our members jumped at the opportunity.”

Minnick said, “Kentucky Bourbon is a community that spans throughout the Bluegrass State and from whiskey bars in Sidney to the collectors in Manitoba. Bourbon lovers everywhere want to help rebuild Western Kentucky with our hands, hearts and wallets.

“Private collectors, Kentucky distillers, out-of-state brands and celebrities donated rare auction items that will surely break records. The Bourbon community believes in the Commonwealth’s bond of Bourbon and knows it can bring us together to rebuild.”

Offerings include more than 20 private barrel experiences, where Bourbon enthusiasts can personally taste and select their own one-of-a-kind barrel under the tutelage of the brand’s Master Distiller. Each barrel usually yields 150-200 bottles depending on age and proof.

Whiskey aficionados with the Bourbon Crusaders have raided their collections and donated dozens of limited edition and single barrel expressions of Bourbon, rye and Scotch whiskies. Distillers also have donated rare bottles that disappeared from retailer’s shelves long ago.

Minnick, a best-selling author and expert on all things Bourbon, utilized his renowned distilling and celebrity connections to reap a treasure trove of bottles, private experiences and memorabilia to fulfill any whiskey lover’s dream.

On the hospitality side, companies along the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour have donated overnight stays at charming bed and breakfast stops, transportation and tourism packages, a six-foot tall Christmas tree made out of barrel staves and much more.

In addition to the auction, there will be a dedicated “buy it now” section where people can purchase bottles and other items without breaking the bank. Due to COVID and space restrictions, the live auction is not open to the public. Items will be available for viewing online and streaming.

Organizers have been humbled and overwhelmed by the generosity of distillers and partners from outside Kentucky that offered assistance and items for the auction. Kentucky distillers also are sending pallets of hand sanitizer to Western Kentucky that remain from COVID relief efforts.

“The outpouring has been enormous,” Sargent said. “We immediately began receiving texts and calls throughout Kentucky and from coast to coast from our members, friends and partners in the national Bourbon community who knew that we could help them help Kentuckians.”

Gregory said he began making calls to distillers early Saturday morning when daylight gave way to the devastation of the tornados. Not one distiller turned down his request to donate barrels or bottles to the cause.

“I really didn’t have to ask,” he said. “They knew why I was calling and they were ready to help in any way. It could have been any of their communities or families or colleagues. That’s Bourbon. That’s the Kentucky spirit shining through. We’re all about taking care of each other.

“After all, Bourbon is America’s spirit and Kentucky is its birthplace. When Kentucky hurts, we hurt, and that’s why we’re doing this. Thank you to everyone who is helping in the recovery and rebuilding efforts, and please continue praying for our beloved Commonwealth and its people.”

About the KDA

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the historic voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft and treasured economic engine. The KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com

About the Bourbon Crusaders

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

Thanks to our annual distillery partners, the greater Bourbon industry, philanthropic individuals, and the amazing attendees of our events, we have raised almost $1,000,000 over the past four years for a variety of charities. Each of our lead partners trusted this small group in the name of doing good, and we are eternally grateful for those opportunities. Thanks to these special people for sharing our vision, we are able to continue raising money for those in need well into the future.

About Fred Minnick

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

FETTERCAIRN DISTILLERY ANNOUNCES NEW 16 YEARS OLD 2021 LIMITED EDITION 

2021 marks the second release in the annual series, which showcases different maturation journeys from the distinctive distillery character

Following the success of the inaugural Fettercairn 16 Years Old last year, the distillery has today announced the release of its successor. The annual series celebrates different maturation stories, whilst continuing to showcase the distillery’s tropical style achieved from the distinctive copper cooling ring distillation process.

This latest release unites both Sherry-matured and Sherry-finished casks to create a truly refined, balanced yet classic combination of rare Fettercairn and Sherry styles.  The hand-selected casks from a small, family run Bodega in Jerez include first fill Oloroso, refill Oloroso and  first fill aged Palo Cortado Sherry butts, which marry together seamlessly to enhance the distinctive distillery character.

These rare, never to be repeated casks were selected with a focus on retaining the natural beauty and balance of the Fettercairn tropical house style, while taking on the bold sweetness of the dark and nutty Oloroso. This is complemented by refined vanilla and citrus notes from the aged Palo Cortado butts, which add complexity and depth to the ripe exotic fruit characters typically found in the Fettercairn spirit when it reaches its mid-late teens.

Bottled at 46.4%, natural in colour and non-chill filtered, this 16 Years Old boasts rich honey and bronzed hues. On the nose, sugared almonds, dried fruit and aged wood feature harmoniously, whilst on the palate, a myriad of Alphonso mango, rich citrus zest and apricots are balanced with walnut, coffee and liquorice notes giving way to salted caramel, sandalwood and iced ginger cake on the finish.

Gregg Glass, Master Whisky Maker, said, “This one-off Fettercairn 16 Years Old limited edition was borne from fully-matured Sherry casks combined with hand-selected, rare and old, Oloroso and Palo Cortado Sherry butts. For me, this was about retaining the natural beauty and balance of our Fettercairn tropical house style while elevating the pure beauty and refinement of select, aged Palo Cortado and Oloroso casks. Combining these elements allow us to share another aspect and dimension to our truly unique warehouse stocks at Fettercairn.”

Kirsteen Beeston, Head of International Malts at Whyte and Mackay, said, “The enthusiasm and love we saw for our first 16 Years Old reinforced our desire to create whiskies inspired by our enlightened whisky making philosophy. This 16 Years Old reveals finely balanced tropical and soft spice flavours and showcases the approach we take to making single malt. This time around, we’ve called on rare Palo Cortado which is an elegantly dry Sherry alongside the dark richness of Oloroso, to add a special flair to this single malt and showcase the excellent maturation expertise coupled with the ripe tropical distillery character when the spirit reaches the late teen years. We are confident that this year’s 16 Years Old will be another Fettercairn release that excites and enthrals whisky drinkers.”

Fettercairn 16 Years Old is available across Europe including France, UK, the Netherlands, Germany Belgium from December, extending to Global Travel Retail and key Asia markets into 2022, at an RSP of £69. The GTR edition will be in 1L formats with an RSP of £79.

www.fettercairnwhisky.com

Facebook @fettercairnwhisky

Instagram @fettercairnwhisky

Twitter @FettercairnWh

About Fettercairn

Our founder, Sir Alexander Ramsay, was one of the Scottish landowners who campaigned for the licensing of Scotch Whisky distilling. In 1824 Fettercairn he established the Fettercairn Distillery, in the Northeast of Scotland; it was to become one of the first licensed single malt distilleries. Despite his campaigns for regulation, Ramsay recruited illicit whisky makers as his first stillmen, knowing only they had the knowledge and experience required to make great whisky. From our very beginnings, we’ve been doing things a little differently in the pursuit of great whisky.

In the mid-1950s, the whisky makers at Fettercairn experimented, seeking ways to create a purer expression of their spirit. They found that pouring water down the still cooled the copper, increasing condensation inside so only the lightest vapours could rise for collection. They fashioned a copper tube around the top of the still to continually douse it with crystal clear mountain water. This simple yet ingenious engineering feat not only creates a purer expression of our whisky, but beautiful oxidized patina of the copper with shades of teal, brushed cooper and white proudly marking our stills. To this day our copper cooling ring remains unique in Scotch whisky making.

Today the Fettercairn Distillery continues this trend of ingenious thinking and is the home of enlightened whisky making, where experimental and considered, open minded innovation provides inspiration in the creation of the most exceptional and rare single malt whiskies.  Driven by the idea of entire craft, there is an inherent commitment to the land and the idea of nurturing and embracing every single part of the process, from forest to field to Fettercairn.

As part of this philosophy, we are always discovering and learning and we use this to feed our imagination and passion to create distinct whiskies with a surprising tropical character.

ARTMEIS
First Launch Edition

Bunnahabhain 30 Year Old 1990

Friday the 17th of December, 2021, Fife, Scotland

style=”text-align: justify;”>Specialist online Scotch whisky merchant and bottler, TheWhiskyBarrel.com, is proud to release the first bottling of its ARTEMIS whisky series commemorating the first flight of the Artemis space program. A new single cask Scotch whisky selected from a single cask of Bunnahabhain whisky distilled on the Isle of Islay, Scotland.

ARTEMIS First Launch Edition

Artemis 1 is set to be the first launch of the Orion spacecraft. A test flight orbiting the Moon before returning to Earth is scheduled to launch in 2022, to be followed by a crewed lunar landing expected in 2025; the first since Apollo 17 in 1972.

Bunnahabhain 1990 Vintage Single Cask

Selected from a single hogshead cask distilled at Bunnahabhain distillery, Islay, yielding 285 numbered bottles at natural cask strength 54.8% abv.

Nose: Cosmic barley fields, galactic stem ginger, clusters of lavender honey, pulsar of lemon zest and brown bread nebula.

Taste: Orbital barley sugars, ginger eclipse, lemon juice pulsars, hot chilli rocket fuel, honey starburst, solar salt and pepper.

Finish: Milk chocolate supernova, pink grapefruit dwarf and a cereal flyby.

PRICING

Each bottle retails at: £220 GBP inc. VAT / €215 EUR / $244 USD / c$312 (+ P&P)

Q) What is the product called?
A) – ARTMEIS First Launch Edition Bunnahabhain 30 Year Old

Q) When will this product be released/was it released?
A) Thursday 16th of December, 2021.

Q) Where is it available?
A) Scotland, off-trade, TheWhiskyBarrel.com.

Q) Is this product already available in other markets?
A) Scotland only, TheWhiskyBarrel.com ships worldwide.

Q) How much is it?
A) Each bottle retails at £220 GBP inc. VAT / €215 EUR / $244 USD / c$312 (+ P&P)

Q) Who handles the product’s distribution?
A) In-house at TheWhiskyBarrel.com.

Q) How many bottles are there?
A) 285 bottles.

Q) What is the ABV of this product?
A) Natural cask strength.

Q) Why has this product been launched?
A) Limited Edition single cask exclusive for TheWhiskyBarrel.com online whisky shop.

Notes

The Whisky Barrel is a specialist online whisky and spirits merchant based in Fife, Scotland and was established in 2007. In 2019 The Whisky Barrel won The Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade. The Whisky Barrel is also a winner of the Whisky Magazine Online Retailer 2018 and was International Wine & Spirits Competition runner-up in 2016.

*N.B. Prices correct at the time of publishing and are subject to currency fluctuation.

The Whisky Barrel    E: info@thewhiskybarrel.com
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MIX, MINGLE AND JINGLE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THE FIRST-EVER MONKEY SHOULDER WHISKY

BRASS MONKEY COCKTAIL MIX, CREATED WITH THE LEGENDARY COCKTAIL EMPORIUM IN TIME FOR THE MOST FESTIVE TIME OF YEAR.

Available online and at select retailers, the limited edition Brass Monkey Mix was exclusively created by the Cocktail Emporium and will be available nationwide for cheeky monkey gifts and stockings this holiday season.

Who’s ready for an epic and deliciously mixable holiday collab?

The makers of the legendary Monkey Shoulder Whisky; the scotch whisky “Made for Mixing”, are partnering with the cocktail gurus at Cocktail Emporium to bring you the ‘Brass Monkey’, a special cocktail mix designed to help make a refreshing and mix-ready splash this holiday season.

Developed to create the perfect Brass Monkey signature cocktail at home, the Monkey Shoulder cocktail mix features a combination of Pickett’s Medium Spicy Ginger Beer Syrup and Black Cloud Cabaret Aromatic Bitters. To make the perfect holiday cocktail, cheeky monkeys mix Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Brass Monkey Mix, soda water and a slice of fresh orange.  The perfect holiday mixer for the merriest season of the year.

“The Brass Monkey Cocktail Mix simplifies the cocktail-making process for both the party hosts and cocktail enthusiasts on your list this season,” comments Beth-Anne Perry, Country Marketing Director, William Grant & Sons.  “With an approachable and easy-to-sip cocktail that tastes mixologist-made, it’s a Monkey must-have for this holiday season.”

The Mix was created exclusively by the Cocktail Emporium, Canada’s go-to cocktail supply shop for industry and at-home bartenders.  With three locations across Toronto and an online store with international shipping, Cocktail Emporium is known for its cool and innovative bar essentials, perfect for mixing cocktails monkey style.

“Mixing it up with the Cocktail Emporium was a natural partnership for Monkey Shoulder Whisky, a scotch whisky designed with cocktails and bar enthusiasts in mind,” adds Perry.  “As the go-to spot for all things cocktail, it is a perfectly epic partnership.”

It’s Monkey Shoulder’s versatility that makes the whisky so conducive to cocktail creation. Monkey Shoulder offers a hint of zesty orange, vanilla, honey, and spiced oak followed by mellow vanilla notes with a hint of spice. The smooth, complex and fruity character is bold enough to stand out in a drink but balanced enough not to take it over – this isn’t monkey business; Monkey Shoulder has been perfecting its craft for almost two decades.

Available globally with an eye-catching bottle, intriguing name, and a mischievous attitude, Monkey Shoulder created a stir as the scotch that leaps out from the whisky crowd. Monkey Shoulder is a marriage of 100% malt whisky from Speyside, Scotland. It is crafted in small batches to achieve a richer taste, and aged exclusively in first-fill Bourbon barrels for exceptional smoothness. Monkey Shoulder has received numerous accolades, including designation as Drinks International’s Top Trending Scotch Whisky Brand 5 years in a row and recently taking the Gold medal at the International Spirits Competition 2021.

The Brass Monkey Mix is just one of the cocktail culture disruptions created by Monkey Shoulder Whisky for the industry and at-home bartender in mind.  In addition to its curated list of Monkey Shoulder Scotch Cocktails created by globally recognized mixologists, Monkey Shoulder Whisky has nationally launched the exclusive bartending tool The Claw, hosted the Ultimate Bartending Championship in Toronto and Vancouver, and partnered with the some of the largest names in the DJ music scene, including Toronto’s Skratch Bastid.

“Monkey Shoulder Whisky continues to challenge perceptions about Scotch whisky and redefine expectations for cocktails – and the holidays are the perfect time to mix, mingle and enjoy,” adds Perry.

“We look forward to sharing this legendary collab with our mixing and mingling Canadians of legal drinking age this holiday season.”

The Brass Monkey Mix retails for $8.95 and can be purchased online at the Cocktail Emporium website at https://bit.ly/3o4lEFB

Here’s how to mix up the BRASS MONKEY!

You’ll Need:

1. 45 ml of Monkey Shoulder Whisky
2. 15 ml Brass Monkey Cocktail Mix
3. Bottle of soda water
4. Fresh orange slice

How to Mix:

1. Start with some Festive pep in your step!
2. Combine Monkey Shoulder Whisky and Brass Monkey Mix in a Tom Collins glass over ice.
3. Top up with soda water.
4. Garnish with a fresh orange wedge.
5. Crank up the monkey music mixes and serve it up.
6. Cheers & ENJOY!

For additional information about the Cocktail Emporium, please visit www.cocktailemporium.com.

WhistlePig Rye Whiskey kicks off UK and European focus with Moët Hennessy

Following the announcement of the international partnership between Moët Hennessy and WhistlePig in 2020, the rye whiskey brand and leading luxury drinks company are launching a full sales and marketing drive in the UK and Europe this month, with larger scale activity planned for 2022.

The collaboration includes Moët Hennessy acquiring a minority stake in the highly awarded Rye whiskey distillery and brand from Vermont.

The product focus for the UK in 2022 will be WhistlePig’s award-winning core range of Rye Whiskies: WhistlePig Rye Whiskey Aged 10 Years, Old World Rye Aged 12 Years and Estate Oak Rye Aged 15 Years. Next year will also see the introduction of more limited edition releases to the UK and European markets, as well as a younger rye to encourage new drinkers to explore the brand and rye whiskey category overall.

On and off trade activations are being planned throughout the year with specialist partners in both channels, with the emphasis on industry education and advocacy.

Jeff Kozak, CEO of WhistlePig said: “We are delighted to be taking WhistlePig to market in both the UK and Europe, having the chance to showcase our very special range of whiskies to consumers who might already know of us, but have not yet had the chance to hear our story or taste our highly decorated range of whiskies.”

“The continued interest in American whiskey from consumers within the European market, alongside the dynamism we are starting to see again in the on trade offers the perfect opportunity for our brand and whiskies to hopefully flourish.”

Since being founded in 2007, WhistlePig has been one of the driving forces in American craft whiskey and innovation, with rye at the heart of everything they do. The distillery has won multiple global awards for its range of rye whiskies, ensuring that the WhistlePig name is synonymous with world-class spirits and a pioneering leader in the creation of rye whiskey.

The core range of whiskies includes a spirit that has been matured in Vermont Oak, grown on the land surrounding the distillery. Vermont Oak is some of the most northern Oak in the world, which means more growth rings and more depth of flavour in the final matured spirit.

Alexei Rosin, Managing Director at Moët Hennessy UK said: “It is an exciting time for American whiskies and our partnership with WhistlePig offers a fantastic opportunity to expand our spirits expertise, whilst building a portfolio of both luxury and craft boutique brands.”

The WhistlePig range of rye whiskies are available via Clos19.com and Majestic, as well as other specialist retailers and on trade accounts, RRP from: £80. For trade enquiries, please contact Moët Hennessy UK.

About WhistlePig:

Founded in 2007, WhistlePig has become the #1 distiller in the ultra-premium and luxury rye whiskey category in North America, featuring the bold and often untapped flavour of Rye.

As the most decorated Rye whiskey – having received the coveted ‘Best in Show Whiskey’ title from the 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, WhistlePig is widely viewed as the world’s finest Rye. With the opening of its distillery on its 500-acre Vermont farm in the fall of 2015, WhistlePig has also become one of the leading farm-to-bottle Rye whiskeys in the world.

For additional information please visit whistlepigwhiskey.com.

About Moët Hennessy:

Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of LVMH, regroups twenty-four Maisons, recognised internationally for the richness of their terroirs, the quality of their products and the craftsmanship with which they are created.

Please drink responsibly.