VCL Vintners forecasts powerful vision of 2022 for the whisky investment industry, after shaking up 2021

Brokerage reports trades in whisky of nearly £9m in 2021 

VCL Vintners, London’s leading whisky cask broker among millennial investors, reports a 16% increase on the total value of casks brokered in the last 12 months, having facilitated close to £9 million worth of trades in fine single-malt whisky casks between January 2021 to January 2022. So far this year alone, the brokerage also reports it has facilitated trades of whisky casks totalling over £2.2 million.

Volatile markets and inflationary pressures have encouraged an increasing number of investors of all ages and levels of experience to diversify their portfolios. As the brokerage has continued to acquire a greater share of the whisky cask market, clients have been flooding the switchboards and VCL Vintner’s digital onboarding systems, in search of the valuable shelter offered by the steady performance of whisky casks as a reliable alternative asset.

Year on year, VCL Vintner’s client base increased by an additional 45%. Currently, over 60% of the brokerage’s clients are under the age of 45, with nearly a quarter aged between 25 and 34 years old.

In 2021, the most expensive casks sold by VCL Vintners were from the Macallan, Bunnahabhain, Bruichladich, Dalmore, Aultmore, and Ben Nevis distilleries. VCL Vintners does brisk trade in casks valued between £30,000 and £60,000, but has also dealt in stand-out, rare casks worth over £250,000.

The brokerage’s dominant acquisition of market share in 2021 was facilitated by key partnerships with younger distilleries, expansion into the Asian markets, and innovations within digital financial technologies.

March 2021 saw an exciting collaboration with the award-winning Annandale distillery in Southern Scotland. The five-year deal of exclusivity entitled VCL Vintners to half of Annandale’s output each year for sale to investors, amounting to 276,000 litres of single cask single malt whisky. In a market that has traditionally been closed off to outsiders and newcomers, this partnership was a sign of strategic commitment from VCL Vintners to stay up to date with the latest and best casks available for investment for their clients.

2021 was also a big year for expansion into the Asian market. Throughout the pandemic, VCL Vintners saw an increase in high-end investors based in Southeastern Asian buying into whisky, anticipating the upturn in the market following the vaccine rollout and lifting of restrictions. In Q3 of 2021, 25% of new accounts opened were from investors based in Japan.

In October 2021, VCL Vintners collaborated with Metacask, the digital marketplace for whisky NFTs and broke a world record in whisky cask investment. Leading NFT artist, Trevor Jones, was commissioned to produce an NFT artwork called the ‘Angel’s Share’ which was backed by a Macallan 1991 cask for the record-breaking price of $2.33 million. As opposed to a photograph of the cask to represent the item, the overseas buyer received Trevor’s abstract digital representation.

In December 2021, the brokerage released a limited run of own independent bottling line of new fill spirits. The company advises that new fill spirits are the perfect entry point for novice or casual whisky investors, as well as the perfect treat for whisky drinkers.

The independent bottlings consisted of a limited release of bottles. A Highland and Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky distilled at Royal Brackla and Benriach Distilleries. Both spirits were aged 9 years and finished in octaves: the Highland Single Malt in a port cask and the Speyside Single Malt in a sherry one. They both sold out in under 48 hours. 

Benjamin Lancaster, co-founder and director at VCL Vintners, commented on VCL Vintner’s extraordinary year: “The tide changed in 2021. The floodgates opened in the first few weeks of 2022. The numerous successful projects undertaken over the past year have laid the groundwork for an expansive 2022. This year, we look forward to continuing our work to open the whisky investment space to a dynamic new audience and to seasoned investors seeking shelter during turbulent times in the markets. The numbers speak for themselves; the increasing value of our casks, alongside the refreshingly youthful demographic of our clientele, forecasts a growing, powerful vision for the industry.”

About VCL Vintners

Founded in 2010, VCL Vintners source and manage the finest investment-grade single malt whisky casks for their network of retail and institutional investors.

VCL Vintners provides investment opportunities ranging from new-fill barrels to some of the oldest and rarest casks available. With assets under management currently totalling around GBP 70 million, VCL Vintners is on track to corner a significant amount of the whisky market’s total reserves, targeting an additional managed amount of GBP 150 million within the next decade.

Whisky is now one of the globe’s best-performing asset classes, with both prices and demand continuing to grow at a double-digit rate. However, despite these ten-fold increases and interest from new investors, investment-grade whisky’s reputation for running on relationship-based acquisitions can make it somewhat difficult to enter. VCL Vintners’ expert advice assists clients at all stages of their investment journey, allowing investment in a range of whisky options, from sought-after individual bottles to entire casks.

https://vclvintners.london

Benromach adds new limited edition to its Contrasts range 

— Only 6,000 bottles of newly released Benromach Cara Gold available globally —

Benromach Distillery in Speyside has launched a new limited edition single malt, Benromach Cara Gold, with just 6,000 bottles available globally.

This is the first time Benromach Distillery has used Cara Gold malted barley, a low colour roasted caramel malt more commonly found in breweries which produces rich fruity and toffee flavours. This was combined with the distillery’s standard lightly peated malt to create a unique expression which delivers a new twist on the subtle smokiness Benromach is most well-known for.

Laid down in 2010 before being bottled in 2022, this expression is natural in colour and non-chill filtered. It has been matured exclusively in first-fill bourbon barrels, creating passionfruit, lychee and lime aromas which are complemented by a hint of malted biscuit.  With smooth, sweet flavours of pineapple, apricot and a subtle pepperiness, it leads to a vibrant, fruity and sweet smoke finish.

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, said: “We love to get creative with our small batch vintage expressions and our Contrasts Range allows us to do this . Unlike any of our other expressions, we have used Cara Gold malt – this is a type of malted barley you would usually find in a brewery rather than a distillery and it has produced a beautiful and unique single malt. But, in true Benromach style, this whisky was made by hand for genuine character using the skills, expertise and senses of our small team of distillers.”

Benromach Cara Gold is available on the Benromach website and at selected retailers worldwide.

Benromach Cara Gold has an RRP of £49.99. Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties.

Tasting Notes: 

Benromach Cara Gold is natural colour, non-chill filtered and is bottled at 46% ABV

• • Colour: Pale Gold
  • Aromas: Perfumed and sweet with passionfruit, lychee and lime complemented by a hint of malted biscuit.
  • Palate: Smooth and sweet flavours of pineapple, apricot and subtle pepper lead to toasted malt and a hint of butterscotch.
  • Finish: Vibrant and fruity with sweet smoke.
  • PPM: 12ppm
  • Maturation: First fill bourbon barrels
  • RRP: £49.99 Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties.

About Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery and purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. Its five-star visitor centre is closed to the public at present and is due to re-open in spring 2022 for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

PENDERYN DISTILLERY RELEASES AN ODE TO PORTUGUESE FORTIFIED WINE
WITH TWO HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SINGLE CASKS:

Six Year Old Moscatel de Setúbal Wine Cask and a Six Year Old Tawny Port Cask

The two new Single Malt releases, exclusive to the U.S. market, are the latest selection from the Single Cask program, which identifies and showcases some of the most unique and coveted whiskies produced at Penderyn Distillery.

Penderyn Six Year Old Moscatel de Setúbal Wine Cask
(Cask No. W19 – 60.8% ABV)

Penderyn Six Year Old Tawny Port Cask
(Cask No. PT318 – 59.59% ABV)

Periodically, Penderyn selects its best casks to offer discerning followers new examples of its outstanding world-class Single Malt whisky. Historically, those chosen for release in the U.S. are met with rave reviews and top ratings and are the first age statement Penderyn Single Casks to be released in the world. These special releases are handpicked in partnership with Sam Filmus, president of ImpEx Beverages, who assists Penderyn’s distilling team in making the final selections.

In the last year, Penderyn Distillery has continued to build on its legacy as a world-class producer of whiskies by securing top industry accolades, including receiving a Double Gold Medal for its Peated whisky, and Gold Medals for the Portwood and Rich Oak whiskies in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Penderyn Distillery garnered an impressive five Gold Medals at The Spirits Business’ annual World Whisky Masters event for its Madeira, Peated, Myth, Celt, and Rhiannon whiskies. Additionally, Penderyn Sherrywood and Rich Oak brought home a Double Gold Medal from the New York World Wine and Spirits Competition, with Myth bringing home a Gold.

For more information about Penderyn Distillery, visit Penderyn.wales. For inquiries on where to buy Penderyn in the U.S., please reach out to office@impexbev.com.

About Penderyn:

Penderyn is an independent distillery located in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales, UK. Recognized as one of the most influential Welsh exports, Penderyn is credited with reviving the country’s whisky industry after more than a 100-year absence. Renowned for its high-quality Single Malt whisky and other distillates, Penderyn is also recognized for respecting the long heritage of whisky production and combining it with an innovative approach to distilling. Penderyn is exported to over 40 destinations, including Europe, Canada, the USA, Japan, Russia, Singapore, Australia, and China.

About ImpEx Beverages:

ImpEx Beverages imports Whisky, Gin, Rum, and Mezcal from Scotland, Belgium, Wales, Japan, Israel, and Mexico with future anticipated additions from unexpected destinations. We also feature a fine line of Liqueurs and Cordials produced in the US. Regardless of your preference, you are sure to find something that pleases you from the ImpEx portfolio. Founded in 2008, ImpEx boasts an impressive portfolio, including some of the most notable small to medium-sized distilleries and independent bottlers.

Maker’s Mark® Becomes Largest Distillery In The World To Achieve B Corp Certification
With Industry-Leading Environmental and Community Focused Efforts, Iconic Kentucky Bourbon Joins a Growing Global Movement of Companies Using Business for Good

London, UK (January 26, 2022) – Maker’s Mark has earned B Corporation Certification, making it the largest distillery in the world and the first in Kentucky’s famed Bourbon Country to achieve the distinction, which recognises companies working to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy. The B Corp Certification affirms years of industry-leading efforts by Maker’s Mark intended to benefit the greater good and signals a major milestone on the brand’s environmentally conscious mission to “Make Your Mark. Leave No Trace” – now and for the future.

“Since 1953, my grandparents instilled a sense of responsibility here at Maker’s Mark that started with the way we make our bourbon and extended to the way we impact the lives of our teams, our customers, our communities and our shared environment,” said Rob Samuels, 8th Generation Whisky Maker and Grandson of the Founders at Maker’s Mark. “That commitment to a higher purpose continues to live on, both here in Kentucky and beyond. I am so proud of our team’s tireless efforts that have earned us B Corp certification, and I’m even more excited to continue pioneering social and environmental initiatives that benefit the future of bourbon and greater good for all.”

Maker’s Mark achieved B Corp Certification by meeting and exceeding rigorous benchmarks across five categories of the B Impact Assessment: Community, Customers, Environment, Governance and Workers. Key efforts recognised as part of the scoring and certification include the following:

• Maker’s Mark is a spirits industry leader in its environmental practices, implementing innovative programs at its property on Star Hill Farm to preserve the natural resources that go into making its whisky and better the world around it. Initiatives include a distillery-wide zero landfill initiative; an onsite recycling program that is the first in Marion County, Ky. and open to community members;       the establishment of a natural water sanctuary protecting the watershed at Star Hill Farm; and the implementation of a solar array that powers the extensive Maker’s Mark warehouse complex.
• The bourbon producer is renowned for its community and philanthropic efforts, having invested millions of dollars in the hospitality industry, local Kentucky causes and the arts since its founding more than 65 years ago. In recent years, Maker’s Mark has acted as a principal partner to The LEE Initiative, which aims to address issues of equality and diversity in the restaurant industry.  During the COVID-19 global pandemic, Maker’s Mark and The LEE Initiative have worked together to feed more than 1.5 million hospitality workers in cities across the United States.
• Maker’s Mark has earned a decades-long reputation as an employer with workplace opportunities that exceed the industry standard. The company offers generous benefits and compensation, including the highest wages in its community; opportunities for advancement, job training and tuition assistance for employees; and six months paid maternity leave.

B Corp Certification is just one step Maker’s Mark is taking to “Make Your Mark. Leave No Trace,” as part of its long-term environmentally-focused mission which couples bold, regenerative actions with comprehensive efforts to leave nothing harmful behind. Beyond the initiatives assessed as part of B Corp Certification, Maker’s Mark has introduced several innovative efforts to create a more sustainable future for the spirits industry, including the establishment of the world’s largest repository of American White Oak trees for research purposes; a first-of-its-kind genome mapping project of the American White Oak species; and regenerative farming practices to enrich soil for more robust and flavorful varieties of grain.

Maker’s Mark joins more than 4,000 Certified B Corporations around the world – including Patagonia, Allbirds, Burton Snowboards and Sipsmith® Gin – that meet the highest verified standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability. Aspiring to use the power of business to address social and environmental issues, B Corps become certified through rigorous verification by B Lab and undergo verification every three years. The Certification is designed to help consumers identify companies with a mission that align with their values.

For more information about Maker’s Mark and its efforts for good, visit www.MakersMark.com.
For more information about B Corp visit www.Bcorporation.net.

About Maker’s Mark® Bourbon

In 1953, in Loretto, Ky., Bill Samuels, Sr., fulfilled his dream to create a handmade and delicious bourbon. He decided to make his whisky in small batches, using soft red winter wheat to enhance the softness and sweetness. He then rotated each barrel by hand for consistency and, finally, aged each barrel to taste. Bill Samuels, Sr., transformed bourbon from a “commodity” into a premium handmade spirit, and today Maker’s Mark continues to make its bourbon the same way. That time-tested approach seems to still be working just fine 60+ years later, as Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon was awarded a Double Gold medal at the esteemed San Francisco Spirits Competition in 2021. In recent years, Maker’s Mark has introduced thoughtful, super-premium innovations to its portfolio, including Maker’s Mark 46, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength and Maker’s Mark Private Selection, the brand’s first-ever custom barrel program. For more information, visit www.makersmark.com

About B Corporation

Certified B Corporations meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, legally expand their corporate responsibilities to include consideration of stakeholder interests and build collective voice through the power of the unifying B Corporation brand. There are more than 4,000 certified B Corporations from over 150 industries and over 75 countries, representing a diverse multi-billion-dollar marketplace with 1 unifying goal.

About B Lab 

B Lab is transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. A leader in economic systems change, our global network creates standards, policies, tools, and programs for business, and we certify companies—known as B Corps—who are leading the way. To date, our community includes 280,000 workers in over 4,000 B Corps across 77 countries and 153 industries, and more than 150,000 companies manage. To learn, visit www.bcorporation.net.

WE MAKE OUR BOURBON CAREFULLY.  PLEASE ENJOY IT THAT WAY.

Maker’s Mark® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 45% Alc./Vol. ©2022 Maker’s Mark Distillery, Inc., Loretto, KY.

SMOKEHEAD TWISTS TRADITION THIS VALENTINE’S DAY WITH NEW LIMITED-EDITION STOUT CASK EXPRESSION

STILL PACKS A PEATY PUNCH: SMOKEHEAD UNLEASHES BOLD & UNEXPECTED FLAVOUR COMBINATION WITH RELEASE OF TWISTED STOUT 

Smokehead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, one of the fastest growing single malts in the UK and globally, is once again twisting tradition with their latest release, Twisted Stout. The brand-new limited-edition expression has been part finished in stout casks, priced at RRP £49.99 and with an ABV of 43%, it is only available to purchase exclusively from www.smokehead.com

Still packing that unmistakably Smokehead peaty punch, Twisted Stout brings a smoother, sweeter, and silkier experience with this delicious and different whisky.

Intertwined with the intense smack-in-the-tastebuds smoke you’d expect from Smokehead, the creamy, malty stout flavour adds unfamiliar notes of rich chocolate and treacle toffee, vanilla ice cream, roasted nuts, and toasted biscuits.

Wrapped up in a striking new pack design, the ever-courageous brand’s new and innovative release is available to buy now only from www.smokehead.com

Commenting on the launch Iain Weir, Smokehead Brand Director said “Our unique  and disruptive Smokehead thinking has led to some convention challenging, trail blazing, rule breaking whiskies over the years that don’t follow the usual traditions and rituals.

“We’ve clearly struck a chord with those who do things their way, live life on their own bold terms, and pick a whisky that’s as disinterested in the status quo as they are. Twisted Stout is as far away from a standard single malt as the combination of tastes, aromas and flavours inside the bottle.

“So, while all our releases come with an original twist, our latest might just be our most twisted yet. Which is just how we like things.”

SMOKEHEAD TWISTED STOUT TASTING NOTES:

THE FIRST IMPRESSION

The usual island intensity of Smokehead comes cloaked in sweet aromas of chocolate and treacle toffee. Maritime air meets a decent pint on the shore. Unexpected. Unusual. And unsettling for the senses.

THE FULL-ON FLAVOUR

You’re past the point of no return now. Hot and soothing at the same time. Salty smoke weaves its way around dry roasted nuts, toasted marshmallow, vanilla ice-cream and… is that someone putting a pot of fresh coffee on?

THE FINALE

New flavours unlocked. Old favourites reunited, wood smoke and spices. Malty, toasted biscuits. Zingy citrus. Dark and delicious. A fitting sign-off from the twisted lovechild of whisky and beer.

Smokehead also grabbed the headlines recently with the launch of the first-ever pre-mixed single malt in a ready to drink can serve. Kick-starting the brand-new ready to drink range with two eye-popping serves: ‘Smokehead mixed with Cola’ and ‘Smokehead mixed with Ginger and Lime’, both available to buy online via Amazon, Smokehead.com and other UK selected retailers.

The Smokehead core range (see below) is also available globally via online and instore. 

CORE SMOKEHEAD EXPRESSIONS:

SMOKEHEAD

Smokehead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the original expression, an intensely rich yet subtly sweet dram. With immense smoke and notes of sea salt and spice, this is a vigorous whisky that stands out from the crowd.

HIGH VOLTAGE

If Smokehead is an assault on your senses, then High Voltage is an all-out attack. The breath-taking intensity of the peat and smoke is a red light for the faint of heart.

RUM REBEL

The rich, smoky, salty Islay whisky rebel is finished in spicy, sweet Caribbean rum casks creating culture colliding carnage and a melding of mouth-watering tastes.

SHERRY BOMB

Smokehead Sherry Bomb is a peaty Islay single malt that has well and truly earned its name. Blasted by rich, sweet and spicy Spanish sherry casks, it had emerged as a fiery, explosive, heavy hitting dram that has even turned our skull red. 

*Smokehead always encourages responsible drinking* 

www.smokehead.com

f: www.facebook.com/smokeheadwhisky

i: www.instagram.com/smokeheadwhisky

#smokehead 

NOTES:

About Smokehead:

• Smokehead is an Islay Single Malt Whisky and has been given a bold new look by Ian Macleod Distillers.
• Smokehead has been labelled the wild one of Single Malt Whisky.
• Award-winning premium Scotch whisky that has an attitude-led positioning and smoky sweet taste. 

About Ian Macleod Distillers:

• Established in 1933, Ian Macleod Distillers is one of Scotland’s leading independent, family-owned distillers, blenders and bottlers.
• Ian Macleod Distillers is the world’s 10th largest Scotch Whisky company, producing and selling over 15 million bottles of spirits every year.
• Ian Macleod Distillers has built up an enviable portfolio of premium quality spirits and is proud brand proprietor of Glengoyne, Tamdhu, Rosebank and Smokehead Scotch whiskies and Edinburgh Gin to name but a few.

ImpEx Beverages and Women Who Whiskey Announce Two Exciting Releases Celebrating the
10th Anniversary of Women Who Whisky

Membership in Women Who Whisky (wWw) provides the opportunity to learn about spirits and cocktail culture, and to join a worldwide network of like-minded people with a taste for curiosity and delicious drams.

In 2021, Women Who Whiskey celebrated 10 years of uniting whisk(e)y lovers around the globe by collaborating with ImpEx Beverages on Two Special Bottlings, Fukano Chizuru and Penderyn Legend wWw 10th Anniversary Edition.

Fukano Chiruzo celebrates the career of Chizuru Fukano, the former Managing Director of Fukano Distillery in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto, Japan. She started at the distillery in 1990 as a volunteer tour guide and retired in 2018 after 28 years of service to the distillery.

A limited release of 3,000 bottles, this expression was matured in refilled Oak, Manzanilla Sherry and Red Wine casks is a seasonable sipper with complexity and backbone that would also work well in a refreshing cocktail.

Label art on this bottling is by Linh Do, who left a career in social work to pursue her passion in whisky. She uses alcohol as muses for her art and is respected in both the artistic and whisky communities. After all, whisky making really is an art isn’t it?

Penderyn Legend wWw 10th Anniversary Edition celebrates the heart and skill of the women of the Penderyn Distillery. An all-female distilling and blending team set Penderyn apart from other Distilleries and the tutelage of Dr. Jim Swan makes the expressions they offer even more special and unique.

This special release of 3,000 bottles is matured in specifically reserved ex-Bourbon casks made from American Oak, before receiving further maturation in Oak Barriques that have previously held Madeira wine, to develop a harmonious Single Malt whisky with a subtle but sophisticated character and soft golden hues.

wWw Founder & Principal, Julia Ritz Toffoli said of the partnership, “The Fukano Distillery Chizuru Fukano Limited Edition Bottling represents everything that Women Who Whiskey stands for: the vision and leadership of an incredible woman who dedicated her career to her passion, not only breaking the mold of what was expected for women in her position, but crafting a unique and exquisite whisky that she single-handedly brought to the global market.

Penderyn Distillery has partnered with us on several popular events, so when the opportunity presented itself to co-launch a commemorative bottling of award-winning Penderyn Legend to celebrate Women Who Whiskey’s 10th Anniversary, we jumped at the chance to partner again with their amazing all-woman production team, to bring our members a memorable and delicious limited release whisky A special thank you to Linh Do (who designed the bottle art for Fukano Chizuru), Gabrielle Dion & The Mixing Glass (our retail partner), and Chris Uhde, Vice President of ImpEx Beverages for introducing wWw to these amazing teams and expressions, and for working tirelessly to import our bottling run in the midst of a global pandemic and supply chain crisis. Without them none of this would have been possible”

For more information on where to purchase these amazing expressions please email Office@ImpExBev.com

About Women Who Whiskey
Both for amateurs and connoisseurs, wWw is a global women’s networking and educational organization, dedicated to creating a space where our members can cultivate their passions for community and whiskey. With a focus on inclusion, wWw aims to create an educational and experimental environment for those who have all-toooften been left out of the traditionally male-dominated world of whisk(e)y.

About ImpEx Beverages
In 2008, ImpEx Beverages was founded with the vision to import premium and rare spirits from around the world, with a special emphasis on the best of what Scotland has to offer. Today, ImpEx boasts an impressive portfolio, including some of the most notable small to medium sized distilleries and independent bottlers; importing Whisky, Gin, Rum, and Mezcal from Scotland, Belgium, Wales, Japan, Israel, Mexico, and England with future anticipated additions from unexpected destinations. ImpEx also features a fine line of Liqueurs and Cordials produced in the US.

White Peak launches Derbyshire’s first ever single malt:

-WIRE WORKS WHISKY-

named after the Distillery’s home

Derbyshire’s first full-scale craft Distillery – White Peak – is finally releasing its long-awaited single malt: Wire Works Whisky.

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

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

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

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

A complex, fruit-forward, lightly peated spirit – Wire Works Whisky has a delicious aroma of vanilla, chocolate, orchard fruit and orange peel, with roasted malt and toffee on the palate and a strong finish, with moments of café mocha, a hint of peat and liquorice allsorts.

Max & Claire Vaughan

Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Max & Claire Vaughan – both originally from Derbyshire – White Peak Distillery has gone from strength to strength in its first few years, winning awards for its Distillery visitor experiences, as well as its new make and maturing single malt spirit: the journey to now and the reveal of the Distillery’s new whisky.

Max Vaughan, Co-founder of White Peak Distillery said: “The journey we’ve been on since we started the Distillery has been amazing and full of challenges but we’ve never lost sight of making the best spirit we can and this moment of releasing our own single malt whisky. We’re realising a dream that our small and passionate team has been focused on since day one.”

“We are exceptionally proud of our heritage and local provenance within the Peak District and believe that our Wire Works Whisky brings all of the best elements of our homeland together in one special spirit. In many ways we are only just at the start and we hope that our supporters and Distillery friends will enjoy celebrating this very special moment with us.”

Just 5,016 numbered bottles of Wire Works Whisky will be available from 3^rd February, with more releases planned for 2022. White Peak’s loyal followers and supporters – including their Temperance Club members, cask owners and crowdfunding investors – have had the opportunity to reserve their own bottle ahead of the launch date.  

Wire Works Whisky is available from Thursday 3^rd February directly from the Distillery and selected trade retail partners, including various nationwide independents: Booths (leading food and drink retailer in the northern counties), Master of Malt, The Whisky Exchange, The Whisky Shop, Selfridges, House of Malt and Hard to Find Whisky, RRP: £65 (70cl).

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

Notes

*Johnson & Nephew Wire Works: The Distillery site was originally used as an iron forge owned by the Hurt family in the early 1800s. The derelict forge was then transformed by the Johnson Family into a wire works in 1876. Johnson & Nephew was a pioneer and innovator in wire and cable products, including supplying cable for the first, sub-sea cross channel telegraph service and numerous early suspension bridges in the UK and overseas. The Johnson family were part of the group of entrepreneurs that established the industrial heritage of the Peak District region.

The Wire Works thrived for most of its 120 years until its closure in the mid-1990s and was a major local employer, known to be fair and generous in supporting local community events. The buildings stand proud alongside the River Derwent and back into the Shining Cliff Woods, an ancient woodland and site of specific scientific interest.

Wire Works Whisky tasting notes:

A complex, fruit-forward, lightly peated spirit.  Vanilla, chocolate and orchard fruit on the nose, with roasted malt and caramel on the palate and a strong finish with moments of café mocha, a hint of peat and liquorice all sorts.

On the nose…

Chocolate-covered cinder toffee, vanilla, caramel, Caramac bars, candied ginger, orange peel, macadamia nuts, baked fruits, pear drops, icing sugar, glacé cherries and lightly roasted coffee beans.

On the palate…

Dark chocolate, a flash of pepper, chilli across the tongue, roasted malt, orchard fruits, raisins, toffee apple, black forest gateaux, butterscotch, cigar box, sandalwood and a wisp of smoke.

The finish…

A long finish, with café mocha, chilli chocolate, liquorice all sorts and a final hint of peat.

BRUICHLADDICH DISTILLERY LAUNCH ONLINE EXCLUSVE – OCTOMORE TEN AGED YEARS

“At that age, with the quality of those casks, this Octomore is absolutely singing.”

Adam Hannett, Head Distiller at Bruichladdich Distillery

ISLAY, SCOTLAND – Bruichladdich Distillery have today announced the concluding chapter in their Octomore 12s series – a 10 year old, sold exclusively on the distillery website and in the Laddie Shop on the island of Islay.

The 12^th series of the world’s most heavily peated single malt was launched in October 2021, and introduced all three .1, .2, and .3 globally to domestic markets for the first time ever. Challenging conventional whisky wisdom, this Octomore trio was malted to 80+ PPM, matured to five aged years, and were bottled above 55% ABV. The series explores the influence of barley provenance and cask exploration combined with super heavily peated malt – including a stripped back ex-American oak maturation in the 12.1, Sauternes cask maturation in the 12.2 and Pedro Ximenez sherry cask matured Islay barley spirit in the 12.3. In a closing statement to the series, this new Octomore Ten Aged Years brings a heightened texture and depth to its youthful counterparts.

Distilled from the 2009 harvest of Scottish grown Optic barley, this 2010 vintage was then malted to 90.3PPM. It would spend its first five years maturing in first fill ex-American oak casks, before being recasked into wine barriques for its final five years. Hailing from a bodega in northern Spain, this Ribera del Duero wine is known for its intense flavour and complexity, owing to its altitude (~900m), exposure to wind and organic production methods. The resulting Octomore single malt is viscous, sweet and structured, with a touch of dryness from the tannic European oak.

Bottled at 56.3% ABV and limited to 3,500 bottles, the Octomore Ten Aged Years is available online at www.octomore.com from the 1^st of February 2022. As with all Bruichladdich Distillery malts, it is conceived, distilled, matured and bottled on Islay.

The International Wine & Food Society

Yes, now ‘s the time for blended Scotch to shine. A brand new publication, singing the praises of #blendedScotch, has been released by The International Wine & Food Society (IWFS) – ‘Exploring Blended Scotch’.

This new title investigates a topic which the authors believe has not been given the coverage it deserves – the sheer delights of blended Scotch whisky – uncovering many of the hidden treasures of what is the ‘foundation of the Scotch whisky industry’. The IWFS agreed that blended Scotch is a style of whisky that is worthy of further investigation and have published this almost pocket-sized booklet for its members and beyond. Chapters covered include its fascinating history, blending, appreciation, leading blends, old blends, cocktails, pairing whisky with food and finishing with some delicious recipes.

“Exploring Blended Scotch” is the product of a collaboration between two writers from both sides of the Atlantic. It has been co-authored by Charles MacLean MBE (Scotland), one of Scotland’s leading experts in writing, tasting and lecturing about whisky and Stuart Leaf (USA) who is a knowledgeable, passionate collector and taster of old blends (and IWFS member). They first met, over a glass of Scotch back in Edinburgh, three years ago. Stuart says “Although conducting joint tastings was challenging across the Atlantic, writing this monograph was a truly fun and engaging distraction during the depths of Covid. Needless to say, most discussions were dutifully enhanced with an appropriate dram!”

“Exploring Blended Scotch” aims to be an insight into an exciting array of different blends, both old and new, which Scotch lovers are encouraged to try. It may also be just the introduction that newcomers, to the delights of whisky, are looking for.

For now, please put your feet up with a glass of #blendedScotch, with or without water (bottled soft water is best!), and get ready to explore the many interesting and tasty elements of blended Scotch whisky.

As well as being distributed to the 6,000-strong international membership of the IWFS, which has branches from Toronto to Tokyo and Honolulu to Helsinki, this title is also available to both public and trade.

This title can be purchased from the IWFS website via the following link: https://www.iwfs.org/secretariat/purchase. The cover price is £9.99 (US$13.99 approx). A Japanese translation will be published in February. An e-book will also be available via various platforms in due course.

The IWFS is an independent non-profit making organisation, run by volunteers, it is also one of the largest wine and food societies in the world. When members enroll they receive a quarterly food and wine magazine and wherever they travel are welcomed by branches worldwide. Branch events encompass all aspects of food and wine appreciation and learning, visits to food and wine producers plus international and regional festivals.

NEW COLLECTORS FLOCK TO WHISKY MARKET AT BONHAMS HONG KONG SALE

Link to catalogue: https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/27715/

Karuizawa-1960-47 year old-#5627. Sold for HK$1,240,000.

Estimate: HK$ 450,000-600,000.

Hong Kong – Bonhams Whisky Sale on 21 January 2022 totalled HK$23.4 million, led by a Karuizawa-1960-47 year old – the oldest vintage known from the famed Karuizawa Distillery. It sold for HK$1,240,000, nearly tripling its estimate. Of the top ten lots of the sale, more than half sold above high estimates and nine of them were Japanese whisky.

Bonhams Director of Wine and Spirits Asia Daniel Lam commented: “The market demand for fine and rare whiskies continues to be insatiable. The January sale, held only two months after the previous flagship auction, saw strong interest and robust bidding across the board, showing that the market appetite builds fast. First-time buyers are one of the driving factors, as nearly one in every five bidders from the sale were new to Bonhams. After some very strong seasons for Japanese whisky, we are excited to see how the Scotch – now looking attractively-priced in comparison – will perform in 2022.”

The Scotch section, 80% sold, is underlined by star performers from Macallan, Bowmore and Highland Park. A Macallan Millennium-1949-50 year old Decanter sold for HK$384,400, eclipsing the high estimate.

Click here to view full results:

https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/27715/

Sale: Whisky Sale

Location: Hong Kong, Admiralty

Date: 21 January

NOTES

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and antiques, motor cars and luxury. The main salerooms are in London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris and Hong Kong, with auctions also held in Knightsbridge, Edinburgh, and Sydney. With a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 22 countries, Bonhams offers advice and valuation services in 53 specialist areas. For a full list of forthcoming auctions, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com