The Glencairn Glass launches its first ever crime short story competition with the theme:

“A Crystal Clear Crime”

For the past two years, the world’s favourite whisky glass – The Glencairn Glass – has featured as headline sponsor of the prestigious McIlvanney and Bloody Scotland Debut crime-writing prizes, celebrating the finest in Scottish crime writing talent. This week The Glencairn Glass is building on this creative collaboration by launching its very own crime short story competition, in partnership with Scottish Field Magazine.

The Glencairn Glass is looking to celebrate up-and-coming literary talent through this exclusive competition from October to December .

The competition opens for entries on 20^th October and runs until 31^st December, inviting all budding crime writers to build their stories around the theme: ‘A Crystal-Clear Crime’ in no more than 2000 words.

The judging panel for the inaugural competition will comprise Deborah Masson, 2020 winner of the Bloody Scotland Debut Crime Novel of the Year with her book ‘Hold Your Tongue’, Peter Ranscombe, Scottish Field’s drinks columnist and author of the historical thriller ‘Hare’, as well as Glencairn’s marketing director Gordon Brown, who has written eight crime novels with his latest, ‘Thirty-One Bones’, written under the pseudonym Morgan Cry.  Gordon is also one of the founding directors of the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival.

Gordon Brown commented: “We’re very excited to be launching the Glencairn Glass crime short story competition, supported by the team at the Bloody Scotland International Crime Writing Festival along with the Culture and Business Fund Scotland, working with Scottish Field. We are delighted to invite both experienced and novice authors, alike, to take a stab at entering (excuse the pun!) and wish all entrants the best of luck.”

Three prizes will be available for the winning trio of authors: the first prize winner will receive £1000, whilst the two runners up will each receive £250. All three winners will also receive a set of six bespoke engraved Glencairn Glasses to enjoy their favourite dram with. The overall winning entry will be published by Scottish Field in spring 2022 as well as on The Glencairn Glass website.

All short story entries must be uploaded at www.whiskyglass.com/crime-short-story-competition with the competition closing at midnight on the Friday 31st December 2021. Details can also be found at www.scottishfield.co.uk. The winners will be announced in March 2022.

Notes

For further details about competition rules and regulations please visit: www.whiskyglass.com/crime-short-story-competition 

About Glencairn Crystal:

The Glencairn Glass, created in 2000 is the world’s favourite whisky glass.  Glencairn Crystal now make over 4 million Glencairn Glasses per year, across hundreds of brands, distributed to over 140 countries worldwide.

Glencairn Crystal’s clients include leading drinks companies such as Brown-Forman, Diageo and Pernod Ricard as well as sporting organisations including the world famous premier clubs; Liverpool, Celtic and Rangers. Also organisations including Muller, Cunard, Facebook and Google, plus corporate clients including the Houses of Parliament and Scottish Parliament.

Introducing new Bankhall Sweet Mash 

Halewood Artisanal Spirits has announced the latest launch from its Bankhall Distillery in Blackpool –Bankhall Sweet Mash.

Following the smaller scale launch of Rebellion earlier this year, Sweet Mash is the latest offering from Vince Oleson (previously from the Widow Jane Distillery in Brooklyn) and the local Blackpool team, who have been busy combining US and UK whiskey styles and techniques to reimagine English Whiskey.

This bourbon-style sweet mash is aged exclusively in new, charred American oak casks that have seen a full range of seasons in Blackpool since they were made by coopers in the US in autumn 2020. This process allows more oak character to shine through, while delivering a rich yet soft profile. The final Sweet Mash offers creamy custard, toasted coconut, baked apples and brown sugar on the palate, and is perfect sipped neat, over ice, or even with a mixer.

Vince Oleson, Master Distiller at Bankhall, comments; “Our new Sweet Mash has seen only nine months in cask but it tells a story, and takes you on a journey much grander. It’s a unique and exciting opportunity for all of us at Bankhall to let the whisky world peek behind the curtain of our adventurous new distillery, and we’re really looking forward to showcasing what we have to offer now, and also what we have planned for the future”.

Andy Wallace, International Marketing Manager for Whisk(e)y at Halewood Artisanal Spirits; comments; “As a business, we are building a portfolio of artisanal distilleries across the UK, with the ambition of bringing a range of different flavour profiles and styles vs other whiskies in the market. Working with Vince and the team at Bankhall has helped us to challenge the usual expectations around English whiskey and create something really new and exciting. We’re really looking forward to seeing where the journey will take us”.

Bankhall Sweet Mash is available to order now, 70cl, RRP £26.

About Halewood Artisanal Spirits (www.halewood-int.com)

For all the latest news and launches:

Instagram:  @halewood_artisanal_spirits

Twitter: @HalewoodIntern1

Facebook: @HalewoodArtisanalSpirits

LinkedIn: Halewood Artisanal Spirits

Halewood Artisanal Spirits is an award-winning UK-based craft distiller. Its premium gin brands include Whitley Neill, City of London, Marylebone Gin and Liverpool Gin.  Halewood also has a strong portfolio of other high growth premium sprits, including Dead Man’s Fingers spiced rum, J. J. Whitley Russian Vodka, Samuel Gelston’s Irish Whiskey, Crabbie Whisky The Pogues Irish Whiskey.

The business operates 11 artisanal distilleries across the UK, Russia, Australia and South Africa including:  The Liverpool Gin Distillery, Crabbie Distillery in Edinburgh, Aber Falls Distillery in North Wales, Bankhall Distillery in Blackpool, The City of London Distillery (the home of Whitley Neill), The Bristol & Bath Rum Distillery, Ironbark in Sydney, Belgravia Distillery in South Africa and JJ Whitley in Russia. The company also operates the Hawkshead Brewery in Cumbria.

At the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition the business was awarded nine double golds and 13 golds, as well as 44 golds at the International Wines and Spirits Competition.

Outside the UK, the business exports products to over 90 countries around the world and has significant operations in a number of international markets including North America, Russia, Australia and China. The business has a £400m+ turnover, and employs over 950 employees globally.

The business was founded by the late John Halewood in 1978 and it remains owned and controlled by the Halewood family.

PAUL JOHN INDIAN SINGLE MALT INTRODUCES PAUL JOHN CHRISTMAS EDITION 2021 TO THE U.S. MARKET

Annual limited-edition release arrives to ring in the Holiday 2021 season

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 14, 2021) Paul John Indian Single Malt Whisky, produced at the acclaimed John Distilleries in Goa, India, is thrilled to introduce Paul John Christmas Edition 2021. The fourth debut in the annual series of Christmas Editions, this festive peated malt will be available in the United States at a suggested retail pricing of $84.99 (750ml/92 proof) in mid-October 2021.

Non chill-filtered and with no added colors or flavors, Paul John Single Malts are created from six-row barley harvested from across the vast lands of Rajasthan to the foothills of the Himalayas and distilled in specially-designed copper pot stills with longer necks that result in fruitier spirits. To create Paul John Christmas Edition 2021, the liquid is then matured in ex-bourbon barrels and a mélange of port and madeira casks in coastal Goa, where the tropical climate helps the whiskies mature faster with an angel’s share of eight percent.

“The blend of whiskies from ex-bourbon, port and madeira casks have given the Paul John Christmas Edition 2021 a rare depth of character and a rich vibrancy that I believe is the best representation of the holidays,” says Michael D’Souza, master distiller & blender for Paul John Indian Whisky.

This exotic, multi-faceted expression features a nose of caramel, orange marmalade, a touch of coconut and sweet berries with a contrast of dry raisins. The palate is rich and creamy, with butterscotch and spice balanced perfectly on light peat and barley. The finish of alluring spice, smoke and flavorful cocoa is long and satisfying, beautifully capturing the essence of the holiday season.

Paul John Christmas Edition 2021 joins the Great Indian Single Malt portfolio alongside core and additional limited-edition expressions including Nirvana, Brilliance, Edited, Bold, Classic Select Cask, Peated Select Cask, Pedro Ximénez (PX) Select Cask, Oloroso Select Cask and The Zodiac Series.

For more information, please visit pauljohnwhisky.com.

About John Distilleries

Established in 1996 under the guidance of Mr. Paul P. John, John Distilleries grew to be a leading spirit company in less than a decade, not just in India but across the globe. Sazerac Company, the largest family-owned distilled spirits company in the United States, is an active stakeholder in John Distilleries. John Distilleries has a strong portfolio of brands in various liquor categories including whiskies, brandy and wines. The flagship brand of the company is Original Choice, one of the top selling brands in India’s popular whisky segment and one of the top 10 selling whiskies in the world with sales exceeding 11 million cases a year.

About Sazerac

Sazerac is one of America’s oldest family owned, privately held distillers with operations in the United States in Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Virginia, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maryland, California, and global operations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, India, Australia and Canada. For more information on Sazerac visit https://www.sazerac.com/

INTRODUCING THE MACALLAN HARMONY COLLECTION RICH CACAO:

A UNIQUE COLLABORATION BRINGING THE WORLDS OF CHOCOLATE AND WHISKY TO LIFE 

The Macallan has unveiled The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao, the first limited edition whisky in an innovative new series of single malts that will see the brand progress its journey towards sustainable packaging.

Inspired by The Macallan’s deep-rooted connection to nature for nearly 200 years, The Harmony Collection is an exploration into the world of sustainable packaging, which will fuse innovative techniques with materials from the natural world at the end of their life to see them reborn with a renewed purpose.

To create the first edition in this new limited annual release series, The Macallan Whisky Maker Polly Logan embarked on a unique journey to Girona, Spain, where she immersed herself in the world of chocolate, exploring the chocolate-making process and uncovering the distinctive flavour profiles.

Polly collaborated with world-renowned pastry chef, Jordi Roca, the youngest of the acclaimed Roca brothers of El Celler de Can Roca, with whom The Macallan has a long-standing relationship. As part of the exploration, she visited Jordi’s famed chocolate factory, Casa Cacao in Girona and she also spent time with master chocolatier, Damian Allsop. Through this unique experience, Polly drew inspiration from the duo’s passion, knowledge and creativity to create The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao, searching the sherry seasoned oak casks maturing at The Macallan Estate to identify rare, indulgent chocolate notes.

Crafted from a harmonious combination of European and American oak casks, the result is an exceptionally rich single malt whisky characterised by a deep, dark chocolate profile, which pairs perfectly with the richest chocolate for a luxurious sensorial experience.

In homage to its chocolate inspiration, The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao is encased in a beautiful fully recyclable and biodegradable presentation box, made using natural by-products in the chocolate-making process. The box is crafted without compromise using discarded husks from cacao pods and brings together The Macallan’s renowned craftsmanship with contemporary packaging techniques aimed at minimising waste.

Sustainability has been a constant guiding principle for The Macallan since it began crafting its single malt whisky in perfect harmony with the beautiful nature that surrounds The Macallan Estate in Scotland’s Speyside in 1824.

Polly Logan, Whisky Maker for The Macallan, said: “The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao is a wonderful expression which brings together the world of whisky with the fascinating world of chocolate.

“Working in collaboration with Jordi Roca, acknowledged as one of the best and most creative pastry chefs in the world, and with exceptional chocolatier, Damian Allsop, I went on a journey of discovery, learning of the craftsmanship, passion and creativity which goes into making chocolate.

“As I immersed myself in this world, I uncovered a great synergy between the whisky-making process and that of chocolate. Both take time and exceptional attention to detail, with even the slightest changes to the process encouraging different aromas and flavours to emerge.

“For this expression, I sought out a specific chocolate note in The Macallan’s traditional sherry seasoned European oak casks and combined this with a vanilla note imparted by sherry seasoned American oak casks to sweeten the slightly bitter chocolate note I had found. This exquisite single malt offers a delightful whisky and chocolate pairing experience and the chance to elevate The Macallan experience to a new dimension.”

Jordi Roca said: “Our collaboration with The Macallan allows us to challenge our own creativity, and in this project, we have been allowed to play with cacao, which is one of my passions. Being able to inspire a whisky and to create a unique tasting experience has been wonderful.”

The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao has an RRSP of £115 and will be available at The Macallan Estate, The Macallan Online Boutique and premium retailers, bars and restaurants around the world from October 2021. For further information visit www.themacallan.com

Whisky Maker’s Notes:

ABV: 44%

Colour: Toasted cacao beans.

Aroma: Chocolate fondant, honey, oak, zesty lime and ginger.

Palate: Dark chocolate, honey, dates, vanilla and cinnamon.

Finish: Long with rich chocolate.

About The Macallan

Founded in 1824, The Macallan is renowned worldwide for its extraordinary single malt whiskies. Their outstanding quality and distinctive character reveal the uncompromised excellence pursued by The Macallan since it was established by Alexander Reid, on a plateau above the River Spey in north-east Scotland.

In 2018, The Macallan opened a new chapter in its history with the launch of its award-winning Speyside distillery. Designed by internationally acclaimed architects to promote sustainability, the building takes inspiration from the surrounding ancient Scottish hills. It stands nearby Easter Elchies House, the Highland Manor built in 1700 which is The Macallan’s spiritual home and remains the heartbeat of The Macallan’s beautiful 485-acre Estate.

Crafted without compromise. Please savour The Macallan responsibly.

The Clydeside Distillery celebrates launch of inaugural Single Malt 

Distillery unveils long-awaited first expression 

After almost four years of quiet maturation The Clydeside Distillery has unveiled its first official Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Stobcross, a Lowland Single Malt, matured in the finest American and European oak casks, is now available to purchase from the distillery shop and website. The 70cl bottle will retail at £45.

Made from 100% Scottish barley and water from Loch Katrine, the inaugural Stobcross has a nose of floral notes with fresh sweetness and tropical tones. To the palate, drinkers can experience orchard fruits and a hint of white pepper.

Andrew Morrison, Commercial Director at Morrison Glasgow Distillers, said: “Today marks a culmination of many years of hard work.

“Stobcross pays tribute to Glasgow’s industrial heritage and the spirit of innovation which forged its position on the global stage.

“Our whisky has been lying patiently waiting for almost four years. This precious time, along with our distiller’s skills and craftsmanship, has created something truly special. We’re incredibly proud to launch our very first Single Malt.”

Named after an historic cross which once marked the route to Dumbarton Rock, Stobcross would later be the name given to a fine mansion built in the 1600s. Later becoming the prosperous weaving village of Anderston, the mansion was demolished in 1875 to make way for the Queen’s Dock – at one time the epicentre of Glasgow’s global import and export trade.

Today, in the Dock’s former Pumphouse, built in 1877, that spirit of innovation continues with the combination of experience, passion and skill to create The Clydeside Distillery’s first release.

Owned by Morrison Glasgow Distillers Ltd, The Clydeside Distillery’s Chairman, Tim Morrison, is the great grandson of John Morrison who originally built The Queen’s Dock in the 1870s.

The project to transform The Pump House into an operational whisky distillery began in 2012 with The Clydeside Distillery opening its doors to the public in November 2017.

The Clydeside Distillery will be closed between 31 October and 15 November due to COP26. While online orders will continue, collections from the distillery won’t be available from Sunday 17 October. An international release of Stobcross is planned over the coming months.

TASTING NOTES

Nose: floral notes, fresh sweetness with tropical tones

Palate: orchard fruits and hints of white pepper

Notes 

Since opening in 2017 on the bank of Glasgow River Clyde, The Clydeside Distillery has established itself as one of the city’s leading tourist attractions. The distillery sits on the site previously known as the Queens Dock, a vast commercial wet dock built by John Morrison of Morrison and Mason and opened by Queen Victoria in 1877.

The Clydeside Distillery is home to a state-of-the-art interactive visitor centre offering guests of all ages and whisky knowledge an experience to remember – from grain to glass. The distillery launched its first expression, Stobcross, in October 2021. This Clydeside Single Malt is produced using clear water from Loch Katrine, 100% Scottish barley and then matured in the finest American Oak and Oloroso Sherry casks.

Introducing a richly radiant whisky for winter jumper days

— Limited edition swirls with wintry aromas and flurries of bright, vivid flavour —

Snowed in at home, Glenmorangie’s Director of Whisky Creation began dreaming of a whisky that captured the cosiness of wrapping up in a winter jumper, while the world outside is white. Swirling with wintry aromas and tastes, Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter brings Dr Bill Lumsden’s deliciously snug feeling to life. Finished in Marsala wine casks from Sicily, this richly radiant 13-year-old single malt Scotch whisky bursts with fruit and honey, cocoa dust and spice. The limited edition’s bright, vivid flavours have inspired a series of delicious wintry drinks, easy to make at home.

Led by Dr Bill, known for his “What if…?” approach, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators are endlessly imaginative on their quest to dream up delicious whiskies. They craft their delicate, fruity spirit in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow more space for taste and aroma. Then they age it in the finest casks, all to bring joy to whisky lovers old and new. Some years ago, Dr Bill pulled on his most colourful winter knit at home in Scotland after a gloriously heavy snowfall. And he began to wonder… what if he could capture the joy of cosy moments indoors by the fire, while snow lay all around?

With this wintry whisky in mind, Dr Bill took a parcel of Glenmorangie mellowed in bourbon casks and finished it in casks which once held Sicily’s fortified Marsala wine – loved for its sweet and fruity flavours. The limited edition he created enfolds the senses in fruit, honey and Brazil-nut toffee, knitted together with cinnamon, ginger and clove.

Inspired by the whisky’s warm, rich flavours, Glenmorangie has created a series of hot and cold wintry drinks, easy to make at home. They include a Winter Old Fashioned made with the limited edition, a bold and velvety Quinta Ruban Hot Chocolate, as well as a Pumpkin Scotch Latte showcasing the Highland Distillery’s smooth, rounded signature single malt Glenmorangie Original.

Dr Bill said: “We all know the delight of snuggling up in a winter jumper by the fire, when it’s snowy outside. With flavours as bright and vivid as my favourite woollen sweater, Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter deliciously captures those magical, cosy moments. The experience begins with light flurries of fruit and honey, building to torrents of cocoa dust, flakes of red pepper and chunks of Brazil-nut toffee. It culminates in a feels-like-forever finish that swirls with cinnamon, ginger and clove.”

Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter will be available in the UK from 1^st November, RRP £75. Stockists will include whisky specialist retailers and www.Clos19.com

https://www.glenmorangie.com/

Follow Glenmorangie on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Glenmorangie

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheGlenmorangie

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glenmorangie

Tasting Notes:

Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter is non chill-filtered and bottled at 46% ABV 

Colour: Amber

Nose: Curious and slightly sharp, with the classic Marsala top-note of slightly oxidised fruits. Hints of orange toffee intermingles with a fragrant top note of lavender honey and sweet rose. With water, some caramelised fruits (oranges & pears) emerge, along with a hint of sandalwood, brazil nut and hint of pine sap.

Taste: A juicy viscous, but slightly peppery mouthfeel, leads to a burst of sweet, nutty flavours – cocoa powder, red pepper, Brazil nut toffee and sweet barley malt. Sweet demerara sugar and a long lingering spicy aftertaste of clove, ginger and cinnamon.

RRP: £75

NOTES 

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to dream up delicious single malt whiskies. They’ve been honing their craft for more than 175 years. They create a delicate and fruity spirit in stills as tall as an adult giraffe to allow for more taste and aroma. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this crackerjack crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

Glenmorangie celebrates the joy of delicious single malt in every part of its universe, from its boutique hotel Glenmorangie House to its colourful new brand campaign, shot by famed photographer Miles Aldridge. With its tagline “It’s kind of delicious and wonderful”, Glenmorangie invites whisky lovers old and new to see themselves in Glenmorangie’s world.

About Dr Bill Lumsden:

Dr Bill Lumsden’s favourite phrase is “What if?”. And throughout more than 25 years with Glenmorangie, the Distillery’s Creative Director has challenged himself and his team to take whatever captures their imaginations and turn it into whisky – be that the cosiness of a winter jumper (Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter), the spirit and flavour of Glenmorangie’s homeland (the Cadboll Estate series), the magic of a cake moment (Glenmorangie A Tale of Cake), a cup of coffee (Glenmorangie Signet), and more. With a PhD in biochemistry and decades of experience, Dr Bill has all the skills needed to bring these ideas to life. Already, he has earned the admiration of his peers many times over. He features in the Icons of Whisky Hall of Fame. He has won the International Whisky Competition’s award for Master Distiller of the Year more times than anyone else. And he was named twice Master Blender/Distiller of the Year by the International Spirits Challenge.

Glenmorangie’s wintry drinks:

Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter has inspired a series of eight hot and cold drinks showcasing the limited edition’s delicious flavours, as well as the Distillery’s smooth, rounded signature single malt Glenmorangie Original; the rich and spicy Glenmorangie Lasanta; and the bold and velvety Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban. The drinks are all simple to make at home, and taste especially delicious on wintry days. Four of the recipes can be found below: 

Winter Old Fashioned

INGREDIENTS

50ml Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter

1 tsp Demerara Sugar
3 dashes Bitters

Cinnamon Stick and Orange Twist, to garnish

METHOD

Pour ingredients into an Old Fashioned glass. Stir to dissolve sugar, then fill with cubed ice. Stir to chill, then garnish with cinnamon stick and orange twist.

Mulled Morangie

INGREDIENTS

30ml Glenmorangie Lasanta

100ml red wine*
50ml press apple juice

Mulling spices (cinnamon stick, cloves, anise, vanilla)**

1 dessert spoon of Demerara sugar

One slice (wheel) of orange

METHOD

Pour ingredients into a saucepan and bring to a simmer on a low heat. Do not allow to boil. Pour into a heat proof cup or mug.

*Alternatively, buy a pre-made bottle of mulled wine from the grocery store

** Alternatively, add a mulling sachet to your red wine

Pumpkin Scotch Latte

INGREDIENTS

50ml Glenmorangie Original
50ml Espresso
50ml ready-made Spiced Pumpkin Syrup

100ml Hot Milk

Whipped Cream and Cinnamon, to garnish

METHOD

Pour ingredients into a reusable coffee cup. Stir, then add whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

Quinta Hot Chocolate

INGREDIENTS

50ml Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban
50g Dark Chocolate (chopped or broken up)

50ml Double Cream
Pinch of Salt
1 tsp Demerara Sugar (to taste)

Orange Twist and Gingersnaps on side for dipping

METHOD

Pour ingredients into a saucepan and simmer on low heat until chocolate has melted (do not boil). Serve in a glass mug and place the orange twist on top, with gingersnaps on the side for dipping.

Malaysia’s Best Award-Winning Whiskey Launched Officially!

Selangor, Malaysia, 7 October 2021 – After much anticipation, TIMAH – Malaysia’s Best Award-Winning Whiskey officially launched virtually today.

The historical moment was officiated by Mr Gilbert Yeo & Mr Kenny Yeo, the Directors of Winepak Corporation the firm that founded and produced the remarkable TIMAH. Esteemed members of the media also attended and enriched the virtual event.

The event that kicked off at 5:30 pm was featured live on Facebook as well. Attendees witnessed the strong historical background of TIMAH’s production and journey, along with live cocktail preparations by Youtuber Whiskey Folks. TIMAH – the first Malaysian made award-winning whiskey – consists of a carefully crafted blend of two aged peated malts and a neutral spirit of Malaysian origin which makes it an exceptional point of difference in international spirits competitions. These components are blended by the master blender, resulting in the distinctive taste of TIMAH. As its name indicates, TIMAH is a Double Peated Whiskey. Peat is a natural, plant-based fuel source that is burned to provide the heat to dry malted barley, giving the resulting whiskey its characteristic smokey flavor and aroma. On the nose, TIMAH is a light, fruity whiskey that is a harmonious mix of primarily smoke, with a hint of a floral bouquet. It moves through a smokey palate before settling into a sweet, light oak finish.

TIMAH has been gaining success since it was formed as the whiskey won silver medals in both the International Spirits Challenge 2020 (ISC) and the Annual San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020 (SFWSC). In ISC, TIMAH competed against over 70 countries and in SFWSC, it was marked by the judges as “an outstanding spirit that displays refinement, finesse and complexity”.

This year in 2021, TIMAH elevated to greater heights upon scoring 92 points at the International Wine and Spirit Competition And of course, the main highlight of the virtual launch event, TIMAH won gold for the ‘Best Malaysian Whisky’ award at the International Whisky Competition® 2021. The International Whisky Competition® is the world’s most-followed whisky competition, reaching communities on various social media channels. Malaysian Whisky hadn’t been a category in competitions prior. We believe the organizers created this specific category due to TIMAH’s outstanding quality.

“I’m proud and thankful to share that TIMAH our award-winning signature whiskey, and our other brands have been widely accepted and desired by both local and international markets. The continuous support of our consumers and partners means the world to us, and I look forward to continue receiving the endless support from each and every one of you,” said Gilbert Yeo, Director of Winepak Corporation Malaysia.

“Winepak and Malaysia should be very proud of TIMAH. International competition judges have scored it highly against world class whiskies, giving it well earned awards. I hope you will see TIMAH as a Malaysian whiskey in its own right, enjoy it and give it the recognition it deserves,” said Tony Allen, former Operations Director of Asia Pacific in Allied Domecq, and a mentor to Mr Gilbert & Mr Kenny Yeo, Directors of Winepak Corporation Malaysia.

TIMAH is set to continue its journey by educating consumers on the rich history of Captain Speedy & whiskey cultures around Asia. It will also elevate according to the latest trends and entertain its consumers with unique flavors that fits their palate perfectly, while keeping quality as the utmost priority. This remarkable whiskey is officially being sold and distributed in Malaysia by Thai Seng Liquor Sdn Bhd, in Singapore by Ang Leong Huat Pte Ltd, in Taiwan by Muteboo International, in USA by California Wine & Spirits LLC, and in Dubai by PKGS International Trading FZC.

The production of TIMAH and other well-known liquors by Winepak Corporation is certified under The Food Safety System Certification (FSSC 22000). This globally recognized qualification sets the highest standards of production quality and safety.

This not-to-be missed spirit can be purchased at the Official Website https://www.timahwhiskey.my/ and more information can be obtained through the Official Social Media at Facebook & Instagram. Latest award results are available at https://www.whiskycompetition.com/2021-results .

About Winepak Corporation

Winepak Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd is one of the leading players in the alcoholic and non-alcoholic production industry in Malaysia, with over 30 years’ experience since its establishment in the early 1980s. Its founder, Mr. Yeo Eng Chiang, is also the chairman of the Malaysian Bottling Association, and sits on various trade board (Wine and Spirits, Chinese Chamber) associations. Winepak Corporation offers a wide range of services from contract manufacturing (producing and bottling) of established international brands, to private labelling for both local and international markets. Alcoholic products are diverse and can range from hard spirits & liquor (brandy and whisky), to wines, white spirits (vodka, gin, rum, tequila), and traditional herbal tonics and rice wine. Winepak also offers local marketing and distribution services through its group of affiliated companies, Thai Seng Liquor Sdn Bhd and Thai Seng Marketing Sdn Bhd, which have almost 100 years of experience in the spirits industry in Malaysia.

TIMAH VIRTUAL LAUNCH – MARKETING FACT SHEET

1. What’s the story behind TIMAH? The name “TIMAH” is a local word which means ‘tin’. It harks back to the tin mining era of British Malaya, which was one of the earliest types of mining operated in Malaysia. TIMAH also symbolizes Captain Speedy, the “face” of the TIMAH bottle and its brand. He was appointed to assist in re-establishing orders and to ensure peacekeeping back in the 19th century during the Larut War, which occurred due to the conflict of mining areas in Perak, Malaysia. His courageous spirit and thirst for adventure is captured in the warm, light embers of our very own Malaysian whiskey. Captain Speedy also introduced whiskey culture to Malaya.

2. What does TIMAH demonstrate in terms of its aroma and taste? TIMAH is a premium double peated blended whiskey, which consists of a carefully crafted blend of two imported aged peated malts and a neutral spirit of Malaysian origin. These components are blended by the master blender, resulting in the distinctive taste of the TIMAH blend. On the nose, TIMAH is a light, fruity whiskey with a floral hint. It then moves through a smoky palate before settling into a sweet, light oak finish.

3. What is the marketing angle for TIMAH? TIMAH was created in order to introduce Malaysian made Whiskey to International audiences. The producers are targeting a different set of consumers driven by varying taste preferences especially in the Asia region. Therefore, to create a unique taste of the whiskey, it is a blend of imported and local components. TIMAH’s personality is also infused with the local history and heritage.

4. Where is TIMAH distributed at the moment? Aside from Malaysia it’s officially being distributed in Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, USA and Dubai. The distributors are Thai Seng Liquor Sdn Bhd for Malaysia, Ang Leong Huat Pte Ltd for Singapore, Muteboo International for Taiwan, California Wine & Spirits LLC for USA, and PKGS International Trading FZC for Dubai. Apart from these, TIMAH will available in more countries soon.

5. Who will enjoy the palate of TIMAH? TIMAH can be widely enjoyed by many. Whiskey lovers will appreciate the peatiness and complex flavour. Beginners will also enjoy the blend because it is very smooth, easy to drink and mixes well. TIMAH was blended with the preferences of the Asian palate in mind, therefore the whiskey has a mild yet distinctive peat character as well as slight sweetness.
TIMAH should be regarded as a new generation of whiskey, proudly made in Asia for Asians. It is still very much whiskey, as we know it, but with subtle twists to its character that give it a uniqueness that will appeal to both established drinkers and the new generation that seeks modernity, quality and something different to identify with.

6. What is next in line for TIMAH? TIMAH’s journey will continue to serve its consumers and transform according to the latest trends and demand occasionally.

SMOKEHEAD TWISTS TRADITION 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.

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.

FOUR A. SMITH BOWMAN DISTILLERY BOURBONS RECEIVE MEDALS AT 2021 WHISKIES OF THE WORLD COMPETITION 

FREDERICKSBURG, VA (Oct. 5, 2021) – A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength continued its winning streak at this year’s Whiskies of the World Competition (WoW) bringing home a Gold Outstanding medal, an award requiring unanimous agreement among judges and given to the highest-scoring products. The honor comes after the bourbon received a Master medal at the 2021 American Whiskey Masters and a Gold medal at the 2021 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition.

Each barrel of A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is hand-selected by Master Distiller Brian Prewitt and aged a minimum of 10 years. The initial release of this uncut, non chill-filtered bourbon came in at 141.1 proof and there are plans to release more each year.

Three other A. Smith Bowman Distillery bourbons were also recognized by judges, a group including spirits evaluators, brand ambassadors, whisky retailers, bartenders and mixologists. The other winners were:

Gold Medal

An excellent product that is among the best, remarkable

• John J. Bowman Single Barrel Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Silver Outstanding Medal

A very good product with complexity that is better than most

• Bowman Brothers Small Batch Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Silver Medal

A very good and recommended product that shows complexity.

• Isaac Bowman Port Finished Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Full results from the 2021 WoW Competition can be found at https://whiskiesoftheworld.com/2021-award-winners/.

 About A. Smith Bowman

A. Smith Bowman’s distilling roots date back to the years before Prohibition when the Bowman family had a granary and dairy farm in Sunset Hills, Virginia. They used excess grain from the family estate to distill spirits. In 1934, after the Repeal of Prohibition, Abram Smith Bowman and his sons continued the family tradition and built a more modern distillery in Fairfax County, Virginia called Sunset Hills Farm.  The Distillery was moved in 1988 and is now nestled in Spotsylvania County near the city of Fredericksburg, 60 miles away from the original location.

As a small and privately owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded. Considered a micro-distillery by today’s standards, A. Smith Bowman produces an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural ingredients and using the latest technology. This micro-distillery focuses on the production of premium spirits honoring the legacy of Virginia’s first settlers. As Virginia’s oldest and most award-winning distillery, its various brands have earned numerous prestigious awards over the years, including John J. Bowman Single Barrel, which was named America’s Best Non-Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon at the 2020 American World Whiskies Awards. For more information on A. Smith Bowman, please visit www.asmithbowman.com

FOUR A. SMITH BOWMAN BOURBONS AWARDED AT NORTH AMERICAN BOURBON & WHISKEY COMPETITION

Two Bourbons Win Gold Medals and Two Awarded Bronze 

FREDERICKSBURG, VA (Sept. 21, 2021) – Four A. Smith Bowman bourbons received medals at the 2021 North American Bourbon & Whiskey Competition (NABWC). John J. Bowman Single Barrel and A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength each received Gold medals, and Bowman Brothers Small Batch and Isaac Bowman Port Finish received Bronze medals.

“We feel honored to be the recipient of these four awards,” Master Distiller Brian Prewitt said. “We take pride in producing top quality spirits, so to be recognized in this way is very humbling for us.”

The NABWC, which was founded in 2014, promotes excellence in bourbon, whiskey, and moonshine through a double-blind competition and is based on a 100-point scale. The spirits are judged by styles and price categories.

For more information about the 2021 NABWC, visit http://whiskeycomp.com/. For more information about A. Smith Bowman brands, visit https://asmithbowman.com/spirits/.

About A. Smith Bowman

A. Smith Bowman’s distilling roots date back to the years before Prohibition when the Bowman family had a granary and dairy farm in Sunset Hills, Virginia. They used excess grain from the family estate to distill spirits. In 1934, after the Repeal of Prohibition, Abram Smith Bowman and his sons continued the family tradition and built a more modern distillery in Fairfax County, Virginia called Sunset Hills Farm.  The Distillery was moved in 1988 and is now nestled in Spotsylvania County near the city of Fredericksburg, 60 miles away from the original location.

As a small and privately owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded. Considered a micro-distillery by today’s standards, A. Smith Bowman produces an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural ingredients and using the latest technology. This micro-distillery focuses on the production of premium spirits honoring the legacy of Virginia’s first settlers. As Virginia’s oldest and most award-winning distillery, its various brands have earned numerous prestigious awards over the years, including John J. Bowman Single Barrel, which received a double gold medal at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.  For more information on A. Smith Bowman, please visit www.asmithbowman.com.