Press Releases

Glen Scotia Partners with Award-Winning Chef Gary Robinson with its new Seasonal Release – Scotch Whisky News

November 16th, 2021

Glen Scotia partners with award-winning chef Gary Robinson to explore
‘perfect pairings’ with its new Seasonal Release single malt whisky

– Distiller teams up with The Balmoral Hotel’s Executive Chef to promote its limited-edition 12-year-old release, out now –

Campbeltown-based distiller Glen Scotia has partnered with Gary Robinson, Executive Chef at The Balmoral Hotel, to promote its new 12-year-old Seasonal Release, and explore the perfect pairing of whisky and food.

In a short new film captured at the hotel’s SCOTCH Bar and kitchens, the chef is joined by Glen Scotia ambassador Gary Mills as the maestros combine their expertise to discuss process, flavour and provenance while enjoying three new dishes created by Gary using the new limited-edition liquid.

Inspired by classic seasonal flavours including toffee, apple, orange citrus and warm spice, the Seasonal Release (54.7% ABV), uses a series of unpeated distillations from 2009 matured in first-fill Bourbon casks and American Oak hogsheads. After maturation for eleven years, the liquid is then transferred and finished in first-fill Oloroso hogsheads and heavily charred American Oak barrels for its final year, before marrying the casks together and bottling at cask strength. It follows the success of the distillers’ limited-edition Sherry Double Cask Finish last year.

The Seasonal Release menu from Gary includes:
• Whisky-cured salmon with apples and celery
• Barbequed pork belly with a sticky whisky-honey sauce & braised pearl barley
• Poached pear salad, whisky caramel and pecan toffee

Gary Robinson arrived at The Balmoral in June 2019 having travelled the world – gaining over 25 years of global culinary experience, most notably in the honourable position of Head Chef to HRH the Prince of Wales. Gary strongly believes in creating dishes that are as meaningful, sustainable and authentic as possible. Showcasing excellence within hotels, restaurants, private households and clubs, he is a strong advocate for classical cooking techniques that retain the natural goodness of homegrown ingredients.

Perfect pairings and the sense of uniting are intrinsic to Glen Scotia, from its whisky-making process where it combines casks and finishes to deliver classic Campbeltown flavours, to its role in the region where the whisky industry has helped to bind the small community together throughout centuries, who have in turn ensured the distillery endured.

Glen Scotia brand ambassador, Gary Mills, said: “The 12-year-old Seasonal Release is another fine dram that brings together those unmistakably seasonal flavours with Glen Scotia’s subtle maritime style, and the result is something very special indeed.
“While the concept of food and drink go hand in hand, it’s been eye-opening to collaborate with Gary Robinson to delve deeper into flavour profiling and consider how they marry together to enhance ingredients on the plate and in a dram – or even better to be enjoyed together.

“This sense of ‘togetherness’ is woven throughout Glen Scotia, which for centuries has endured by virtue of the unique spirit of its community. Food and celebrations, often centred around the town market cross, are part of the history of our tight-knit community in Campbeltown. We hope this partnership will provide some wonderful inspiration for our fans to make at home alongside a dram”

Executive Chef Gary Robinson added: “I’m always excited to get into the kitchen and experiment, especially with a fine dram from Glen Scotia. The new 12-year-old Seasonal Release is a hero ingredient in the three dishes I’ve created. Each dish showcases an indulgent seasonal flavour profile, with the whisky really enhancing each ingredient.

“I created these dishes with the vision that they are the perfect recipes to bring people together – not too complicated to recreate at home and each offers a really special meal for friends and family to come together, gather around a table and enjoy.”

The latest 12-year-old Glen Scotia is another unrivalled issue from the region steeped in so much history with whisky production. In the Victorian age, Campbeltown was known as the whisky capital of the world, with over 30 distilleries packed into the town and neigh on every inhabitant involved in its creation. Only three distilleries endured and prevailed to the present day, and Glen Scotia stands proudly among the last of the many. It benefits from years of local knowledge, experience, craft and whisky passion distilled down into the present Glen Scotia team of today The brand achieved global recognition this year after its 25-year-old single malt whisky was crowned Best in Show and thus Best Whisky in the World at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Seasonal Release retails at £75. It is available for purchase now from the Glen Scotia website (www.glenscotia.com) and through UK specialist retailers.

Notes

Glen Scotia Seasonal Release tasting notes
• Nose: toffee, apple, seaspray, vanilla
• Palate: warm spice, nutty, floral, orange citrus, melted brown sugar
• Finish: long nutty finish with pears & dried peel

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 31 categories were judged with Glen Scotia being awarded the overall winner across all countries and styles.

Twitter: @GlenScotiaMalts
Instagram: @glenscotiamalts
Facebook: @GlenScotiaWhisky

About The Balmoral Hotel

Many hotels claim to have landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their doorstep is a landmark. The Balmoral is a grand railway hotel located at Edinburgh’s most prestigious address, No 1 Princes Street. The Balmoral began life as a grand railway hotel in 1902 and offers 187 contemporary rooms and opulent suites. Excellent cuisine is guaranteed in the Michelin-starred Number One restaurant as well as the hotel’s all-day dining venue Brasserie Prince. Afternoon Tea is served in Palm Court and the hotel boasts a collection of over 500 single malt whiskies at SCOTCH.

Facebook – @BalmoralEdinburgh
Instagram – @thebalmoral
Twitter – @The_Balmoral

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BOWMORE® SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY INTRODUCES BOWMORE® MASTERS’ SELECTION – Scotch Whisky News

November 15th, 2021

BOWMORE® SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY INTRODUCES

BOWMORE® MASTERS’ SELECTION

AND UNITES THE WORLDS OF WHISKY MAKING AND AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN 

Islay, Scotland (November 8, 2021) – A shared commitment to heritage, craftsmanship and innovation unites the worlds of whisky making and automotive design with the creation of the new limited edition Bowmore® Masters’ Selection, the latest single malt whisky to be made by Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky in collaboration with Aston Martin. This whisky also marks the first time Bowmore has adopted the “Golden Ratio” principle to create a new whisky. It will be available in the US as of January 2022.

Imagined and defined by two Masters, Bowmore Master Whisky Blender Ron Welsh and Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman, Bowmore Masters’ Selection bridges two distinct worlds in a powerful, yet inspiring way. At its heart is a mutual trust and respect for one other’s worlds and a passion to discover and learn from each other. Each Master imparts their own creativity and character, but also makes an indelible mark, like leaving their own unique fingerprint, on every single creation.

Marek Reichman, has often spoken about the concept of the ‘Golden Ratio’ – the mathematical ratio found in nature that creates aesthetically pleasing compositions – which sits at the heart of the design of every Aston Martin. Absolute beauty can be created when you achieve a perfect relationship between each proportion of the car.

Reichman explains: “Proportionality defines every precise detail of designing an Aston Martin. We are constantly striving to achieve the Golden Ratio, the optimal of proportions. And it is this force which guides the creation of absolute beauty. To achieve this, we must combine our skill, passion and experience. Coming together with Ron just brings a whole new perspective on this and is hugely inspiring and enlightening. This whisky perfectly and harmoniously brings us together to create a beautiful, yet powerful equilibrium.”

For Bowmore, proportions define character and shape flavor combinations; from cask selection and age to blending. Ron Welsh, Master Blender, Bowmore, explains, “For the first time with this whisky, we have adopted the Golden Ratio to inspire each of the elements bringing their own unique flavors and selecting the optimal casks to forge the desired character, taking inspiration from Marek and his team.  What seems totally contrasting is, in fact, perfectly balanced and proportionate. Working with Marek has given me a new lens from which to explore whisky making.  This whisky serves as a celebration of our unified knowledge and experience; our shared passions, values and ideas.”

Taking inspiration from an engineered approach, this whisky incorporates the divine proportion of 61.8% formed from a base of 21 year old Bowmore matured in first fill Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks. The remaining parts are made up of exact ratios of each other, in line with the Golden Ratio theory, and include exceptionally aged Bowmore matured for over 35 years.

For this single malt, a powerful and complex yet sweet warming dram, the creators seem to have created absolute contrast but in reality, they have captured perfect balance and proportion. With a clear nod to Aston Martin in the very creation of this Bowmore whisky, it exudes a sophistication and complexity which is truly considered yet promises a thrilling taste experience.

Powerful yet elegant; from sweet to spice; sherry to coffee; honey to pepper – the perfect proportions to achieve absolute depth and balance.

Bowmore Masters’ Selection is available in key global markets including the United States, UK, Germany, Canada and China. In the U.S., available as of January 2022 with a suggested retail price is $400.

Tasting notes: Bowmore Masters’ Selection, 51.8% ABV

COLOR:                Mahogany

NOSE:                  Sweet and nutty with notes of Manuka honey and maple syrup with praline and grilled hazelnuts; combine with rich aromas of freshly tanned leather, cigar tobacco, licorice roots, dried thyme and heather blossom.

TASTE:                 Richly elegant sherry merges with raw Islay peat, while bitter dark chocolate, black pepper, butterscotch sauce unites with vanilla and coffee beans and a fruity flair is defined by Morello cherries and a touch of papaya.

FINISH:                Sweet, spicy and mouth warming, with notes of oak spices, chestnut cream and coconut lingering.

About Aston Martin Lagonda

Aston Martin Lagonda is a luxury automotive group focused on the creation of exclusive cars and SUVs. The iconic Aston Martin brand fuses the latest technology, exceptional hand craftsmanship and timeless design to produce models including the Vantage, DB11, DBS Superleggera and the new SUV, DBX.  Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates and exports cars which are sold in 55 countries around the world. Lagonda was founded in 1899 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown.

About Bowmore®

For more than 240 years, the Bowmore Distillery has been capturing the essence of Islay from the shores of its remote island home. Shaped by centuries of skill and tradition, Bowmore’s single malt harnesses the power of this time in every single drop, defined by the past and savoured in the present.

Time is defining at Bowmore and we tirelessly harness the power of time to shape our whiskies. Our distillery’s adherence to traditional production methods helps to shape the character of our fruity and smoky single malts. Today, we are amongst one of a few distilleries which still produces its own floor malted barley, hand-turned by a traditional wooden malt shovel and hand drawn machinery. Water for the whiskies is specially drawn from the Laggan River and uses Islay peat to fire the malt-drying kiln.

Bowmore® Distillery’s proximity to the sea is also vital in determining the final character of its spirit and gives a hint of sea air to the character. The legendary Bowmore® No. 1 Vaults is where most of the whiskies spend their long lives resting quietly in the cool, dark, damp cellars below sea level, oblivious to the waves thrashing the vault’s sea-facing wall.

Matured in oak casks, previously used for bourbon, sherry, or claret, over time developing rich and mellow flavours until the expertise of our whisky makers deems them ready for bottling.  It is this combination of peat, barley, sea breeze, water, wood, people, and tradition that makes Bowmore the exceptional single malt it is today.

Time is marked on each and every bottle of Bowmore, proudly and boldly as a marker of where and when each one’s journey began.  This is our story of time. This is Bowmore, the Art of Time since 1779. www.bowmore.com

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.  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

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Glenfiddich releases an exclusive 26 Year Old whisky to mark COP26, in partnership with Stop Climate Chaos Scotland – Scotch Whisky News

November 15th, 2021

Glenfiddich releases an exclusive 26 Year Old whisky to mark COP26,

in partnership with Stop Climate Chaos Scotland 

The limited-edition single cask whisky was laid down 26 years ago in 1995, when the first COP climate summit took place in Berlin.

100 bottles will be available from 22ndNovember for a charity auction with Royal Mile Whiskies, raising funds to tackle climate change.

This follows Glenfiddich’s sustainable transport initiative, launched earlier this year. 

Monday 8th November, 2021: Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded single malt whisky*, has created a limited-edition 26 Year Old whisky – in partnership with Stop Climate Chaos Scotland – to commemorate the climate change summit, COP26, in Glasgow this November.

The partnership enables Stop Climate Chaos Scotland and Glenfiddich to raise awareness of the active steps Scotland is taking to tackle climate change. These include the brand’s recently launched, pioneering ‘closed loop’ sustainable transport initiative, ‘Fuelled By Glenfiddich’. This involves converting production wastes and residues into Ultra-Clean Low Carbon fuel that is starting to be introduced to some of its transport fleet.

World leaders and COP26 conference attendees will have already had a chance to taste the one-off Glenfiddich 26 Year Old whisky at a series of COP26 events during the summit with Mark Thomson, the Glenfiddich Ambassador to Scotland, leading guests through exclusive tastings.

Whisky enthusiasts and sustainability supporters alike will have the chance to bid on a true collector’s item, one of 100 bottles, via a charity auction through Royal Mile Whiskies. The auction is raising money for Stop Climate Chaos Scotland and will be live from Monday 22nd November, concluding on Monday 29th November 2021.

Claudia Falcone, Glenfiddich’s global brand director, commented: “Glenfiddich is a brand that encourages us to individually and collectively push boundaries and always consider the next step. It has taken more than a decade for Glenfiddich to become the first global spirits brand to process its production wastes and residues into biogas fuel to power some of its trucks. We’re honoured to support the wider sustainability agenda. By releasing the 26 Year Old in partnership with Stop Climate Chaos Scotland, we hope to bring attention and inspiration to continued climate change progress through our one-off auction of the limited-edition commemoration bottle.” 

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland is a diverse coalition of over 60 civil society organisations in Scotland campaigning together on climate change. Alistair Dutton, Board member of Stop Climate Chaos Scotland added: “We’re pleased to be working with Glenfiddich and hope this incredible whisky will raise funds to tackle the climate emergency. The proceeds from the Royal Mile Whiskies auction will help Stop Climate Chaos Scotland members in their work to create a greener future for Scotland.”

Scotland has set an ambitious target to cut emissions by 75% by 2030, and to become Net Zero by 2045. With whisky forming such a large part of Scotland’s identity, the Scotch Whisky Association has outlined its ambitious and impressive vision for the future with a focus on four main areas for industry action:

  • Tackling climate change by having net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040;
  • Moving to a circular economy by making all packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025;
  • Hitting responsible water use targets by 2025; and
  • Caring for the land through the active conservation and restoration of Scotland’s peatland by 2035.

The Glenfiddich 26 Year Old whisky will be available to bid on from Monday 22nd to Monday 29th November via Royal Mile Whiskies: https://www.royalmilewhiskies.com/glenfiddich-auction/

Notes 

*The Glenfiddich range has received more awards since 2000 than any other single malt Scotch whisky in two of the world’s most prestigious competitions, the International Wine & Spirit Competition and the International Spirits Challenge.  

ABOUT STOP CLIMATE CHAOS SCOTLAND

Stop Climate Chaos Scotland is a diverse coalition of non-profit organisations from across Scottish civil society who provide a coordinated and authoritative voice on the issue of climate change, with the aim of seeing Scotland flourish as a just and sustainable nation, consistent with a climate-safe future at home and abroad, having encouraged others towards the same goal.

ABOUT GLENFIDDICH

Founded in Dufftown, Scotland by innovator William Grant, Glenfiddich first ran from the stills on Christmas Day, 1887. Adopting revolutionary methods and practices Grant’s maverick attitude to whisky production saw Glenfiddich excel for over a hundred and thirty years, becoming the first single malt whisky to be promoted outside of Scotland, and ultimately, the best-selling and most awarded single malt whisky in the world. While Glenfiddich is now sold in over 180 countries across the world, the brand is one of the few single malt distilleries to remain entirely family-owned and is still produced in the same distillery which William Grant and his children hand-built.

William Grant, founder of Glenfiddich, was one of the pillars of the Dufftown community in 1887. He is most famous for owning his own distillery, but he also had a wide range of interests beyond whisky. He was a Major in the local Volunteer Militia (forerunner of the Territorial Army), which was a popular activity throughout Banffshire in the Victorian era. He was also Precentor (the person who led the singing in church) at their local Dufftown church. As time went on, he was one of the biggest employers in the area.

ABOUT WILLIAM GRANT & SONS

William Grant & Sons, Ltd. is an independent family-owned distiller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the luxury spirits company is run by the fifth generation of his family and distils some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including the world’s favourite single malt Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts and the world’s third largest blended Scotch Grant’s® as well as other iconic spirits brands such as Hendrick’s® Gin, Sailor Jerry®, Milagro® Tequila, Tullamore D.E.W Irish Whiskey, Monkey Shoulder and, most recently, Drambuie and Hudson.

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MORRISON SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERS RELAUNCH BRUADAR, THEIR SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY LIQUEUR – Scotch Whisky News

November 15th, 2021

MORRISON SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERS RELAUNCH BRUADAR, THEIR SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY LIQUEUR 

BRUADAR HAS A NEW AND IMPROVED RECIPE AND BOTTLE 

November 2021, Aberargie, Scotland– Award winning Single Malt Scottish Whisky Liqueur Bruadar has undergone a relaunch which includes a new recipe and look. After months of experimentation the brand’s Single Malt contribution has been increased slightly, resulting in a higher strength. This also provides more pronounced vanilla and fruity notes from the Whisky, which creates a beautiful balance of flavours that compliment the natural Scottish honey running through the liqueur.

Douglas Crawford, Managing Director, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, said:

‘We are excited to relaunch Bruadar, our Single Malt Scotch Whisky Liqueur, a product which has always received rave reviews on account of the carefully crafted balance of whisky, Scottish honey and sloe berries. Having recently rebranded our whisky portfolio with Glasgow-based design agency Thirst, it’s the perfect time to focus on Bruadar. We are delighted with the striking new design, which reflects the high-quality of the liquid within.’

Carefully crafted for your enjoyment, Bruadar’s closely guarded secret recipe has been over 20 years in the making. Morrison Distillers’ master blender has skillfully blended Single Malt Scotch Whisky with Scottish honey & sloe berries to create something truly unique. Described as “one drop makes all the difference” and “crafted for dinner and drinks”, the versatility of Bruadar makes it the perfect cocktail ingredient, bringing depth and complexity with its velvety-rich layers of flavour, and yet also works beautifully within cooking.

Niel Hendriksz, Sales Director, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, added: 

‘Whisky liqueurs have been a somewhat side-lined category over recent years, but one that offers real versatility, delicious whether enjoyed straight, over ice, in a cocktail or as a cooking ingredient. We’re looking forward to introducing a new generation to Bruadar, a drink which fully justifies its place in the cupboard at home and behind the bar.’

Bruadar Tasting Note:

‘Rich honey and fragrant floral notes on the nose, developing into fresh blossom on the palate and a silky smooth finish.’

Alc content: 24% ABV – this is a slightly higher strength than the previous 22%  

ABOUT BRUADAR  

To find out more about Bruadar visit www.bruadarliqueur.com 

RRP £25.95 to find stockists visitwww.bruadarliqueur.com/buy

Bruadar is Scottish Gaelic for “Dream”

ABOUT MORRISON SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERS   

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

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

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

To find out more about Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers visit www.morrisondistillers.com

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Diageo distilleries first to achieve water stewardship certification globally

November 14th, 2021

Diageo distilleries first to achieve water stewardship certification globally

A new world-first for Scotch whisky has been achieved by a group of eleven distilleries on the River Spey – the most famous whisky waterway in the world.

Today we’re proud to announce that Scotland-based Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS), which sets a global benchmark for water sustainability, has awarded 11 of our distilleries the International Water Stewardship Standard (AWS Standard) certification, a prestigious certification for how they manage precious water resources, ahead of the COP26 UN climate change conference in Glasgow.

The new Dufftown Weir will boost sustainability of salmon and trout stocks in the River Dullen.

The River Spey is one of Scotland’s longest rivers and is famous for its fishing and whisky, with 50 per cent of all Scotch whisky distilled on the Spey. The entire river is protected under European legislation as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in recognition of its importance for the protection of biodiversity such as wildlife species, including the Atlantic salmon.

The pioneering water stewardship work of the Diageo Spey Catchment Group*, which includes such world-famous distilleries as Cardhu, Mortlach and Cragganmore, has seen it awarded the certification.

The iconic River Spey in Speyside.

The AWS Standard is the international standard for responsible water use and encompasses social, cultural and environmental criteria, including engagement with local communities. The Standard recognises continual improvement and commitment to ongoing action in response to the ever-changing nature of water and climate-related threats.

To gain the certification, a team from across our business engaged with local communities and stakeholders to initiate projects across the River Spey, designed to care for water use and improve water efficiency, as well protect against climate-related impacts by improving water balance sustainability. This included engagement with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Spey Catchment Initiative, Spey Fishery Board, Scottish Canoe Association, Spirit of the Spey, and others during the certification process.

Work with RSPB to restore peatland at Abernethy Nature Reserve, in the Cairngorm National Park, is just one recent example of our efforts, where water retention within the catchment was identified as a key issue for improvement for both biodiversity and business continuity. In Summer 2018, some Speyside distilleries were forced to halt whisky production, after a heatwave caused them to run out of water.

“Water is an absolutely crucial ingredient of our whisky, but it is also a precious shared resource that is coming under increasing pressure in many parts of the world, including Scotland. We know how important it is that we protect the iconic River Spey that makes our whisky special. The certification of our Speyside distilleries recognises the efforts we have led in the catchment, to ensure high quality and sustainable water stewardship, so that our natural landscape is preserved for everyone.”

Ewan Andrew

Ewan Andrew

Chief Sustainability Officer, Diageo

Adrian Sym

Adrian Sym

Chief Executive Officer of Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS)

“Collective action, such as that we have seen from Diageo working with its partners in the Spey Catchment Initiative, is going to become even more vital in the years ahead. Only by working together do we stand a chance of making the River Spey more resilient to the ravages of climate change and averting the climate emergency which confronts us all.”

Roger Knight

Roger Knight

Spey Fishery Board Director

*The Diageo Spey Catchment Group includes the following sites: Auchroisk Distillery, Benrinnes Distillery, Cardhu Distillery, Cragganmore Distillery, Dailuaine Distillery, Dalwhinnie Distillery, Dufftown Distillery, Glendullan Distillery, Glen Spey Distillery, Knockando Distillery, and Mortlach Distillery. The Speyside sites have achieved ‘Core Level’ certification.

With water stress being one of the world’s biggest challenges, The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 focuses on better water management as key to climate change and all businesses have a role to play in this. We have set ambitious targets for 2030 to address water sustainability across our business:

  • 30% improvement in water use efficiency globally and 40% in water stressed areas
  • Replenish all direct consumptive water used in water stressed areas
  • Complete 150 community water projects, including providing access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene
  • All of sites in priority water basins engaged in collective action to improve water security and certified to the Alliance for Water Stewardship Standard.

About the Alliance for Water Stewardship

Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) is a global membership collaboration including businesses, NGOs and the public sector. Our members contribute to the sustainability of local water-resources through their adoption and promotion of a universal framework for the sustainable use of water – the International Water Stewardship Standard, or AWS Standard – that drives, recognises and rewards good water stewardship performance.

AWS is registered as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) (SCO45894).

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KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES KENTUCKY MOUNTAIN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY AS CRAFT MEMBER – American Whiskey News

November 13th, 2021

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES KENTUCKY MOUNTAIN MOONSHINE DISTILLERY AS CRAFT MEMBER

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Kentucky Mountain Moonshine Distillery in Estill County is the newest and 51st member of the nonprofit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Founded in 2016, Distiller Howard Arvin launched the brand as a way to distill and bottle his own brand of moonshine. A dentist of 30 years, Arvin decided to take his interest in chemistry to craft his sweet but complex beverages.

Located at 465 Cow Creek Road in Ravenna, the distillery is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near the Red River Gorge region. With its proximity to the Gorge, the facility hosts many visitors from the state’s famed attraction.

The facility features two distilling systems and a tasting room complete with signature cocktails for guests. Kentucky Mountain Moonshine is made with 100 percent locally grown corn and ingredients from the surrounding community.

“We are so glad to join the KDA, which, along with the members, have been so supportive over the years,” Arvin said. “We appreciate the camaraderie and look forward to growing our business alongside these distinguished Kentucky distillers.”

Current products include 80 proof Kentucky Mountain Clear Moonshine, Kentucky Mountain Smokey Apple Pie Moonshine and Kentucky Mountain Smokey Cranberry Moonshine.

“Kentucky Mountain Moonshine embodies the entrepreneurial spirit we see so often in craft distilleries,” KDA President Eric Gregory said. “We appreciate the hard work Howard and his team have invested in our iconic industry and proudly welcome them to our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

Learn more at www.kentuckymountainmoonshine.com.

Kentucky Mountain Moonshine is the KDA’s 31st Craft-level member, aging less than 10,000 barrels a year.

The distillery also is now eligible to join the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®.

Founded in 1880, the KDA is the voice for Bourbon and spirits issues. Its diverse membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are building the next generation of the timeless craft.

Kentucky Bourbon is one of the Commonwealth’s most historic industries, a thriving $8.6 billion economic and tourism engine that generates more than 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1 billion each year, and accounts for over $300 million in local and state taxes and $1.8 billion in federal alcohol taxes.

A key export, the iconic industry is currently in the middle of a $5.1 billion building boom, from innovative new tourism experiences to expanded production facilities, bottling centers and aging warehouses, all to meet the growing global thirst for Kentucky Bourbon.

Bourbon production has skyrocketed more than 430% since the turn of the century.

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

Attendance at the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® distilleries has skyrocketed more than 300 percent in the last 10 years. Total attendance in 2019 was nearly two million, the most since KDA founded the tours in 1999 and 2012, respectively.

Visit www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com to learn more.

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association is a 501(c)(6) non-profit trade association that passionately unites, promotes, protects and elevates the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. 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. 

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GORDON & MACPHAIL LAUNCH PRIVATE COLLECTION SHOWCASE IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS – Scotch Whisky News

November 12th, 2021

GORDON & MACPHAIL LAUNCH PRIVATE COLLECTION SHOWCASE IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS 

Whisky creator Gordon & MacPhail has unveiled a one-off collector’s item – the ultimate Christmas present for one very lucky whisky enthusiast, which is now available to buy.

Presented in a bespoke Scottish oak cabinet, the unique set includes seventeen 20cl bottles from Gordon & MacPhail’s Private Collection, each curated by Stephen Rankin, Director of Prestige.

However, interested buyers will need to move quickly. There is only one showcase available which is on display at the spiritual home of Gordon & MacPhail in Elgin, the shop where the company was founded in 1895. The Private Collection Showcase is exclusively available at www.gordonandmacphail.com/our-whiskies/ranges/private-collection-showcase/, with an RSP of £100,000.

The hand-crafted cabinet has been designed and created by family-owned Method Studio, makers of exquisite, bespoke furniture.

Inside the cabinet, each single malt in the collection is recessed into a solid oak block crafted from one of the original whisky casks that cradled the spirit. The cabinet itself is lined in soft oatmeal leather from Andrew Muirhead & Son in Dalmarnock.

The whiskies themselves are among the rarest ever released by Gordon & MacPhail, personally selected by Director of Prestige Stephen Rankin, a fourth-generation member of the company’s owning family.

The label on each bottle has been designed to replicate those found on whiskies in the company’s inner sanctum, the sample room, used by Gordon & MacPhail to hone its unique experience of combining oak, spirit and time to create single malts found nowhere else. All hand-signed by Stephen, the labels regale several single malts from ‘lost’ distilleries, including St Magdalene in Linlithgow, Dallas Dhu and Caperdonich in Speyside and Glen Albyn from the Highlands. Many of the whiskies within the cabinet are sold out and will never be available to purchase again.

Stephen Rankin said: “Guided by similar philosophies of dedication, passion and attention to detail, we found a kindred spirit in Method Studios when searching for a partner for this truly unique project.

“The cabinet is unlike anything we have done before and is a chance to own a piece of Scotland’s whisky history. It’s a labour of love, from the meticulous process of our whisky experts pairing the spirit with the cask to the precision and talent of the cabinet makers, each built up over decades of experience.

“The result is a celebration of the patience and dedication that comes with true craftsmanship.”

Marisa Giannasi, architect and designer from Method Studio said: “The doors of the cabinet alone are made up of over one hundred individual component parts machined to a tolerance of less than a quarter of a millimetre. The natural grain of these parts has been meticulously arranged and aligned so that the precision-mitred facade flows uninterrupted, like liquid around the piece.

“Being surrounded by trees, water and wildlife, as well as the changing seasons, has a strong influence on our work and on the material-driven, gleefully hands-on atmosphere we endeavour to weave into the fabric of each project.

“This care and attention to every fine detail is a hallmark of Method’s work – a value we very much share with the expert family team at Gordon & MacPhail.”

As well as the complex and dramatic ‘gullwing’ doors, the solid brass plaque on the front of the chest has been engraved, polished and expertly finished by traditional craftsmen in Birmingham’s legendary jewellery quarter – among the last artisans capable of this level of finely detailed work.

Full list of Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection whiskies available within the showcase:

Gordon & MacPhail 1953 from Strathisla Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1954 from Mortlach Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1957 from Glen Grant Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1961 from Mortlach Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1969 from Mortlach Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1965 from Glen Grant Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1966 from Longmorn Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1969 from Dallas Dhu Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1975 from Glenlossie Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1978 from Glen Grant Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1978 from Glenlivet Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1979 from Glenlivet Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1979 from Glen Albyn Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1979 from Glentauchers Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1981 from Coleburn Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1982 from St Magdalene Distillery

Gordon & MacPhail 1982 from Caperdonich Distillery

To register your interest, visit www.gordonandmacphail.com

#GordonAndMacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies

For more than 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 its own bespoke casks with spirit from over 100 Scottish distilleries. Managing a portfolio of casks is a complex level of expertise which Gordon & MacPhail has honed to fully understand cask maturation matched to different styles of spirit. It is this cask curation that allows Gordon & MacPhail to consistently deliver a range of perfectly matured whiskies. Their expert maturation management creates unique, complex but perfectly balanced single malts found nowhere else. At the very heart of business lies the sample room – an exceptional liquid library spanning more than a century of Scotch whiskies featuring a wide range of age profiles and character. But these exceptional snapshots in time are not heirlooms there to impress. They exist to help inform and shape future decision-making and provide an invaluable guide for generations to come. gordonandmacphail.com  

Posted in New Products, Press Releases @ 12:06 am by admin
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The Legacy of Wyoming Whiskey’s Outryder Lives On – American Whiskey News

November 12th, 2021

The Legacy of Wyoming Whiskey’s Outryder Lives On

KIRBY, Wyo. (Nov. 1, 2021) – Wyoming Whiskey is releasing the fifth expression of its signature Outryder Straight American Whiskey.

Outryder was first released in October 2016, representing Wyoming Whiskey’s first use of rye, along with corn and malted barley. It quickly became a favorite amongst whiskey connoisseurs across the country and has a history unlike any other product in the Wyoming Whiskey portfolio.

Those who have been following the brand for years may recall the interesting story of how Outryder first came to be—and it started with Wyoming Whiskey’s founding distiller, Bourbon Hall of Famer and former Maker’s Mark Master Distiller, Steve Nally. At the request of Co-Founder David DeFazio during the early resurgence of rye whiskey, Nally defiantly produced a phenomenal high-rye whiskey that did not meet the legal 51% requirement to be called a rye; Nally was not a fan of rye whiskey.  Years later, as the spirit aged, it was discovered to contain only 48% rye. As a result, Wyoming Whiskey was left with no choice but to develop a straight, and distinct, American whiskey. To hear a snippet of the entertaining and charismatic story from David DeFazio himself, check out this video on The Spirit Guide Society’s Instagram from the previous launch.

Following the popularity of its first two iterations of Outryder, in 2016 and 2017, Wyoming Whiskey came to terms with the finite amount of 2011 whiskey stock used to create the initial batches. In order to carry on the legacy of this exceptional whiskey, Wyoming Whiskey has begun to marry its 10-year-old “almost rye” whiskies (48% rye, 40% corn, 12% malt) and bourbon (68% corn, 20% rye, 12% malt), with two whiskies distilled in early 2017, which are considered a “true rye” (51% rye, 37% corn, 12% malt) and bourbon (68% corn, 20% rye, 12% malt).

Because of the use of whiskies from two different distilling seasons, Wyoming Whiskey cannot attach the bonded designation. However, it is still bottled at 100 proof and it is 100% Wyoming made. The resulting Straight American Whiskey is true to the flavor profile that Wyoming Whiskey fans have come to expect and love. According to Master Blender Nancy Fraley, cherry, honeyed hay, and molasses flavor notes are unique to this year’s offering.

“Outryder continues to be the most revered whiskey we offer, and one that I’m proud to have fought for,” said David Defazio, Co-Founder of Wyoming Whiskey. “And the exchange between me and Steve continues to be one of the most meaningful and entertaining stories of the brand. His defiance resulted in something truly magnificent and unique that we never would have intentionally created by design.”

Wyoming Whiskey master blender, Nancy Fraley, has continued to fine-tune the Outryder expression through barrel selection and its specific blending process. Fraley gave Outryder excellent marks, going so far as to say that it is her favorite Wyoming Whiskey product and her personal “everyday sipper”. Fraley’s tasting notes for the 2021 release of Outryder is as follows:

  • COLOR: Copper to mahogany

  • NOSE: This season’s Outryder features pumpernickel bread with melted butter, honey aromas of beeswax candles with orange blossom pollen, and warm cherry cobbler

  • PALATE: The initial entry is of hot chocolate, yeast biscuits drizzled with dark molasses, honeyed hay, and roasted cumin in brown butter

  • MOUTHFEEL: Medium viscosity with lots of caramelized wood sugars together with gentle rye spiciness

  • FINISH: Long and warming, with lingering flavors of maple syrup over French toast

A total of 11,520 bottles of Outryder will be available for purchase throughout the U.S. at the suggested price of $74.99 beginning November 2021.

Wyoming Whiskey continues to hold fast to its western heritage, producing whiskey the right way, not the easy way: from the ground up. Using water sourced from a mile-deep limestone aquifer and all Wyoming-sourced, non-GMO grains, Wyoming Whiskey respects the maxims of great bourbon, yet also reflects the feel and taste of the place it was made. Since day one, every drop of Wyoming Whiskey has been made in Kirby.

Outryder can be purchased online at ReserveBar or Caskers. It will also be distributed in the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland,  Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Washington DC, Wisconsin and, of course, Wyoming.

Sign up to become a Whiskey Baron to receive the latest news and special offers from Wyoming Whiskey. For daily updates, follow Wyoming Whiskey on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

About Wyoming Whiskey

Born on the land where the Bighorn River carves out the Big Horn Basin, the Mead Family Ranch proudly distills Wyoming Whiskey. Crafted from corn, barley, and wheat and shaped by the harsh elements of the West, six rickhouses house the oak barrels, aging the spirits to exceptional levels. Its process is affected by wild swings of temperature from 135° at the height of the warehouse during the summer and fall precipitously to 5° degrees in the depths of Winter. There’s a reason their whiskey stands alone. To learn more, visit http://www.wyomingwhiskey.com.

ABOUT EDRINGTON  

Edrington’s vision is to give more by crafting exceptional ultra-premium spirit brands. The Macallan is our central focus, supported by Highland Park and The Glenrothes in the fast-growing single malt category and Naked Malt in the blended malt category. Our portfolio is completed with The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky and Brugal premium rum from the Dominican Republic. Edrington also has strategic partnerships with No.3 London Dry Gin, Noble Oak and Wyoming Whiskey in the American Whiskey categories.

 Edrington is headquartered in Scotland and employs over 3,500 people in its wholly owned and joint venture companies, with over 70% employed overseas. We own our route to market in 16 countries and distribute our brands to more than 100 countries around the world through joint ventures and third-party agreements.   Edrington Americas is headquartered in New York, NY with regional offices in Miami and Orange County.

Edrington’s principal shareholder is The Robertson Trust, which has donated over £300 million to charitable causes in Scotland since 1961. Our business is underpinned by the Edrington values of giving, respect, integrity and excellence.

Posted in Press Releases @ 12:04 am by admin
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Diageo’s Valleyfield Distillery to become carbon neutral by 2025 – Canadian Whisky News

November 9th, 2021

Diageo’s Valleyfield Distillery to become carbon neutral by 2025

Diageo is to receive CAD$45.8 million in financial contributions from the governments of Quebec and Canada, along with Hydro-Québec, to support the electrical conversion of its Diageo Valleyfield manufacturing plant and become carbon neutral by 2025.

This project represents an investment of $94 million in the company’s Salaberry-de-Valleyfield facilities. It will eliminate the consumption of approximately 21,000,000 m3 of natural gas and 1,500 litres of heavy fuel oil, which is the equivalent to an annual reduction of nearly 40,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in Quebec or taking more than 11,000 cars off the road for a year[1].

“Today’s announcement marks an important milestone for our North American operations and our global carbon footprint. As part of our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress plan we are committed to reaching zero net carbon emissions by 2030 and we are very grateful for this partnership with the Quebec government, which allows us to make significant progress in creating a more sustainable world.”

Ewan AndrewPresident Global Supply & Procurement and Chief Sustainability Officer

Quebec Premier François Legault and Ewan Andrew, Chief Sustainability Officer at Diageo, made the announcement at COP 26 in Glasgow.

“Diageo is going to be an industry leader in the green economy thanks to Quebec’s clean energy. With today’s announcement, it will be able to position its Quebec products as “green” spirits, both domestically and abroad. This is a great way to promote Quebec’s green energy. It’s also a way to ensure the distillery’s long-term prosperity in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. It’s a winning project for Quebec and a winning project for the planet.”

François LegaultPremier of Quebec

Our Valleyfield distillery generates 290 direct jobs in Quebec and purchases grain from 1,500 Quebec farmers. The site distills, ages in barrels, and bottles several of the company’s products and brands, such as the iconic Canadian whisky Crown Royal. The Valleyfield plant will be our first distillery in North America to make the transition to carbon neutrality via implementing four energy efficiency measures and two measures to convert from natural gas and fuel oil to electricity. To do so, it will acquire specialized equipment, such as a mechanical vapour recompression evaporator, steam dryers and an electric boiler.

“The Government of Canada continues to drive ambitious climate policy supported by concrete actions already under way to go further and faster in the fight against climate change. It is important to support innovative projects that reduce emissions, create good jobs and allow Canada to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Today’s announcement highlights some of the significant work being done by Quebec and its partners to build a stronger economy and a healthier province. Leadership in strategic projects such as Diageo announced today will reduce emissions and ensure that workers and communities have a cleaner and healthier environment.”

Steven GuilbeaultMinister of Environment and Climate Change of Canada

We will also significantly reduce our electricity consumption during peak periods to avoid putting pressure on the network and thus contribute to the sound management of Quebec’s energy resources. During these periods, we will use alternative green energy sources to maintain its production.

“The energy transition will be achieved largely through more efficient use of existing resources. We are very proud to participate in the electric conversion of the Diageo facilities, and to contribute to the implementation of energy efficiency measures. This project is a concrete example of changes we need to keep making in the future — using our clean energy to electrify as many economic activities as possible.”

Sophie BrochuPresident and Chief Executive Officer, Hydro-Québec

Diageo’s commitment to sustainability: More information on Diageo’s Society 2030 Spirit of Progress action plan can be found here.

[1] According to the National Resources Canada department Agency (Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator): https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/calculator/ghg-calculator.cfm#results).

Posted in Press Releases @ 12:08 am by admin
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Lux Row Distillers Announces $4M Expansion Plans – American Whiskey News

November 9th, 2021

Lux Row Distillers Announces $4M Expansion Plans

Enhancements will enable 24-hour operation, boost annual production 75% 

St. LOUIS (Nov. 1, 2021) – Lux Row Distillers – the Bardstown, Kentucky, home of the Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Daviess County, David Nicholson and Blood Oath bourbon brands – will undergo a $4 million expansion beginning in November. When completed in late 2022, the expansion will allow Lux Row Distillers to operate 24 hours per day and increase its capacity by 75 percent.

Opened in 2018 Lux Row Distillers has quickly become one of the top US-based independent producers of alcohol beverage products, creating and marketing a wide array of products across all categories. With more than 18,000 square feet, ten barrel warehouses at capacity and a 43-foot custom copper still, Lux Row will have the ability to distill more than 50 thousand barrels of whiskey annually when this expansion is fully complete.

“Lux Row Distillers broke ground nearly six years ago as a result of our company’s desire to grow our brands and service our needs on our terms,” said Lux Row Master Distiller John Rempe. “Expansion of our facilities represents the next chapter in our evolution as we continue to fill the growing demand for our products. I’m truly excited to see what possibilities open up when expansion is completed”

The distillery will remain fully operational throughout the construction process. Additionally, all construction work will take place “back of house” and will in no way impact tours or any other aspects of the guest experience.

Lux Row tapped architectural firm Joseph & Joseph and general contractor Buzick Construction for the project.

About Luxco

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

Posted in Press Releases @ 12:07 am by admin
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