Bourbon Community Comes Together

To Benefit Western Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the KDA

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

About the Bourbon Crusaders

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

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

About Fred Minnick

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

FETTERCAIRN DISTILLERY ANNOUNCES NEW 16 YEARS OLD 2021 LIMITED EDITION 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.fettercairnwhisky.com

Facebook @fettercairnwhisky

Instagram @fettercairnwhisky

Twitter @FettercairnWh

About Fettercairn

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

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

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

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

ARTMEIS
First Launch Edition

Bunnahabhain 30 Year Old 1990

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

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

ARTEMIS First Launch Edition

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

Bunnahabhain 1990 Vintage Single Cask

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

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

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

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

PRICING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notes

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

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

The Whisky Barrel    E: info@thewhiskybarrel.com
Visit www.thewhiskybarrel.com
Find us on: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube & Instagram

MIX, MINGLE AND JINGLE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THE FIRST-EVER MONKEY SHOULDER WHISKY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s how to mix up the BRASS MONKEY!

You’ll Need:

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

How to Mix:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About WhistlePig:

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

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

For additional information please visit whistlepigwhiskey.com.

About Moët Hennessy:

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

Please drink responsibly.

THE GLENALLACHIE DISTILLERY WINS

VISITOR ATTRACTION OF THE YEAR

The Speyside distillery was crowned, along with  

multiple category wins for its products 

After an extraordinary year of innovation and achievement, the Single Malt distillery lead by industry veteran Billy Walker won big at the Icons of Whisky and World Whiskies Awards for 2022.

The awards, both run by Whisky Magazine, “celebrate the best and brightest people and places in the sector” and “commend the best whiskies from around the world”.

Having beaten out all competition at last year’s ceremony to win World’s Best Single Malt, The GlenAllachie was named Visitor Attraction of the Year for 2022. The judging panel cited the overcoming of the adversity stemming from the pandemic as the main contributing factor to the bestowing of the title.

The distillery began offering revolutionary “virtual” tours from the safety of their on-site tasting room in May 2021. The experiences included an in-depth tour video, followed by a discussion with hand-made replicas of the various stages of the production process, and concluded with a tutored tasting of four drams presented in a complimentary keepsake bag with a Glencairn glass.

The company also excelled in the product awards, scooping category wins for The GlenAllachie 12-year-old in its age banding within the Speyside Single Malt group, and MacNair’s Lum Reek 12-year-old in the Blended Malts Under 12 years class.

In addition, The GlenAllachie 15-year-old picked up a gold medal at the esteemed awards, entered by hundreds of products.

Reflecting on the monumental wins, Walker states:

“I’m beyond delighted for the GlenAllachie team for securing such hotly contended accolades at these coveted Whisky Magazine awards. The past two years have been incredibly challenging for the entire industry, however I’ve been witness to the inspiring grit and determination of our team. These incredible awards are a testament to each and every one of them. I will be proudly raising a dram in admiration this Christmas.”

In early 2021, Walker was inducted to the Whisky Magazine’s prestigious Hall of Fame in recognition of his lasting contribution to the Scotch whisky industry.

ABOUT GLENALLACHIE:

One of Scotland’s few independently owned and managed distilleries, The GlenAllachie is led by industry veteran, Billy Walker, who boasts an almost 50-year tenure in whisky. With an emphasis on wood policy, The GlenAllachie’s cask budget for 2021 stands at an eye-watering £1m/$1.2m. With 16 on-site warehouses holding over 50,000 casks, we have complete control of the end-to-end maturation process.

The GlenAllachie focusses on quality over quantity, which is why we chose to reduce our production capacity from 4m to 500,000 Litres of Alcohol, and increase our fermentation period to 160 hours for an ester rich, fruity spirit.

We believe age and integrity matter, which is why all our whiskies carry an age statement, and are bottled at a minimum of 46% ABV, natural colour and non-chill filtered for maximum flavour experience.

Our other brands are MacNair’s Boutique House of Spirits, encompassing Lum Reek Blended Malt Scotch Whisky and Exploration Rum, and White Heather Blended Scotch Whisky.

Further information on the distillery and company can be found at www.theglenallachie.com

Facebook – @TheGlenAllachie    |    Twitter – @TheGlenAllachie    |    Instagram – @theglenallachie_

VERY RARE MACALLAN LALIQUE 55-YEAR-OLD TOPS BONHAMS WHISKY SALE IN EDINBURGH

View the catalogue: Bonhams : Whisky Sale

A decanter of the Macallan Lalique 55-year-old. Sold for £82,960

Edinburgh – A rare decanter of the Macallan Lalique 55-year-old was the top lot at Bonhams Whisky sale in Edinburgh on Tuesday 7 December, selling for £82,960. Numbered 412 out of a limited edition of 420, the decanter came in a presentation case accompanied by a crystal stopper. It had been estimated at £65,000-85,000.

Martin Green, Bonhams Head of Whisky in Edinburgh, said, “Released in 2007, the 55-year-old was the second in the famous Macallan Lalique Six Pillars collection and is much sought after by collectors around the world both for its rarity and quality. We had anticipated stiff competition for the decanter and were not disappointed.”

Other highlights included:

·         Bowmore-38 year old 1957. Sold for £9,760. Estimate: £8,000-10,000

·         Glenfiddich Goodwood-42 year old 1979. Sold for £7,930. Estimate: £8,000-10,000.

·         The Macallan 1950. Sold for £6,710. Estimate: £5,000-5,5000.

Sale: Whisky Location: 22 Queen Street, Edinburgh Date: Tuesday 7 December at 11 am

View the catalogue: Bonhams : Whisky Sale

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and antiques, motor cars and jewellery. The main salerooms are in London, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong, with auctions also held in Knightsbridge, Edinburgh, Paris, San Francisco and Sydney. With a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 22 countries, Bonhams offers advice and valuation services in 60 specialist areas. For a full list of forthcoming auctions, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com. bonhams.com

Wolfburn Scores a Hattrick at the World Whisky Awards  

Wolfburn’s Northland single malt whisky has scooped top honours at The World Whisky Awards, being awarded a Gold Medal in the heavily-contested Non-Age-Statement category.

‘Northland has won six consecutive gold medals in international shows,’ says Mark Westmorland, Global Brand Ambassador. ‘Each year the spirit used to create it gets a little older, a little more mature, a little more flavourful – and it keeps on winning!’

Northland was Wolfburn’s first commercial whisky, first released in 2016. The spirit is laid down in small (120 litre) quarter casks, which mature quickly and ensure a lovely depth of flavour.

In addition, Wolfburn’s Morven and Aurora expressions both took silver medals, making this the first ever awards ceremony in which all three of Wolfburn’s 46% ABV core range won awards.

‘It’s really testimony to the efforts of our master distiller Iain Kerr, and the whole production team,’ comments Mark. ‘Highest quality spirit remains Wolfburn’s hallmark, and it’s lovely that it’s now getting so much recognition.’

ABOUT NORTHLAND:

Wolfburn Northland’s smooth and easy-drinking character stems from the way it is made. Long fermentation is followed by slow and gentle distillation to makes a pure, smooth spirit. Maturation is in the finest hand-selected oak quarter casks. Northland is non-chill filtered and entirely naturally coloured.

ABOUT WOLFBURN:

The original Wolfburn Distillery was founded just to the west of Thurso by William Smith in 1821.  In its day it was one of the largest distilleries in Scotland, producing, according to HMRC records, 28,056 “gallons of proof spirit” in a single year.  Taking its name from the stream that provided the water – the Wolf Burn – the distillery operated until around 1870.  The reasons for its closure are lost in time, but by 1877 the newly produced Ordnance Survey maps showed it being in ruins.

In 2011 plans were laid to resurrect the old distillery. Construction began in 2012 and in January 2013 the new Wolfburn Distillery commenced production, thereby becoming the most northerly distillery on the Scottish mainland.  Situated 300m from the site of the original distillery, the new Wolfburn operates in much the same way as the old: craftsmen use traditional methods to produce fine spirit, which is laid down in best quality oak casks to await the day when it is bottled as single malt scotch whisky.  Wolfburn’s single malt scotch whiskies are now available in 31 countries globally.

Wolfburn Distillery, Henderson Park, Thurso, Caithness KW14 7XW

www.wolfburn.com

www.facebook.com/wolfburn

Traveling to Toast with Loved Ones This Holiday?

If You’re Checking a Bag Because of Bourbon, Maker’s Mark May Pick Up the Fee Maker’s Mark “Whisky Flights” Program Gives Bourbon Lovers the Chance to Get Their Checked Bag Fees Reimbursed – Up to $50,000 Total – To Ease the Burden and Seasonal Stress of ‘Holiday Baggage’

 LORETTO, Ky (December 15, 2021) – Iconic Kentucky bourbon Maker’s Mark today announced the inaugural take-off of “Whisky Flights,” a spirited promotion designed to help lighten the load of travelers’ ‘extra baggage’ this holiday season. The beloved whisky producer is encouraging holiday travelers to spend more time sipping and savoring every precious moment with family and friends, by offering the chance to have Maker’s Mark cover the checked bag fees of those packing a bottle of bourbon to bring home. The program, which aims to ease some of the hassle, cost and inconvenience of holiday travel for America’s bourbon loving spirits drinkers, runs from December 15 through December 31, 2021. Travelers 21+ can hurry over to  https://whiskyflights.makersmark.com/ to upload an eligible checked-baggage receipt for the chance to have Maker’s Mark reimburse their checked-baggage fee, with up to $50,000 of fees covered by the brand during the promotion period.

“As a family-led brand since our inception in 1953, we’ve always believed that the perfect holiday moment starts with you, your loved ones and a bottle of bourbon to share, and we wouldn’t want anything to get in the way of that quality time,” said Rob Samuels, 8th Generation Whisky Maker and Grandson of the Founders at Maker’s Mark. “We know you can’t bring a bottle of Maker’s Mark Bourbon in your carry-on luggage, so we’re encouraging folks to check a bag on their next holiday-bound flight so they can bring a little spirit home to share. We’ll pick up that pesky fee for some lucky travelers.”

By taking care of the extra baggage of the 2021 festivities, Maker’s Mark aims to help travelers come prepared with bourbon in tow, so they can focus on more important things this holiday – like safely and joyfully coming together with loved ones after months apart to toast the moment. Whether the rest of the suitcase is filled with homemade treats, a new kitchen gadget for mom or dad or outfits for every occasion, your chance to get your bag fee covered by Maker’s Mark is simple:

1. Fly over to https://whiskyflights.makersmark.com/ between December 15 – December 31, 2021
2. Check-in and upload your eligible airline checked bag receipt
3. Wheels up! Maker’s Mark is reimbursing up to $50,000 in luggage fees this holiday season

 Once you’ve arrived at your destination, be sure to check out www.MakersMark.com for delicious cocktail recipes to sip and savor throughout the holidays (and beyond!).

NO ALCOHOL PURCHASE NECESSARY. Must be 21+ to enter. Void outside the U.S. and where prohibited. Subject to complete official rules located at www.whiskyflights.makersmark.com. Sweepstakes begins December 15, 2021 and ends December 31, 2021. Limit one (1) entry per person during the promotion period.  Each winner will be reimbursed the value of one (1) checked luggage receipt up to Forty Dollars ($40.00). The Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) of each prize is Forty Dollars ($40.00). The total ARV of all prizes awarded in this Promotion is Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00).

GLENFIDDICH, THE WORLD’S MOST AWARDED SCOTCH WHISKY, ANNOUNCES THE OPEN CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

FOR THE PRESTIGEOUS GLENFIDDICH ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM,

A PRIZE THAT AWARDS A CANADIAN ARTIST A THREE-MONTH RESIDENCY IN SCOTLAND.

The coveted Glenfiddich Artists in Residence Program in Canada is officially accepting applicants for the 2022 prize until January 25, 2022.

Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded scotch whisky officially invites Canadian artists living and working in Canada to submit applications for the prestigious 2022 Glenfiddich Artists in Residence Prize valued at over $20,000 CAD.

Celebrated in art communities as one of the most coveted artist residencies in the world, the Glenfiddich Artist in Residence Program is a three-month all-expenses paid residency at the Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown, Scotland.  The annual prize for the artist includes three months of income, all-inclusive travel and accommodations, project materials, and the opportunity to foster cross-disciplinary ideas while working with an international art community from around the world.

“The Glenfiddich Artist in Residency program provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Canadian artists looking to create and showcase their work on a global scale,” comments Claire May, Senior Brand Manager, Glenfiddich.  “Glenfiddich in Canada is proud to present this incredible opportunity to Canadian artists for the sixteenth year.”

Open to Canadian artists who live and work in Canada, applicants must complete a five-part application that includes an outline of how inspiration will be drawn from the distillery and the work they envision creating.  Applications must also include a short project proposal, a current CV, a short artist statement, 5 to 15 images (or a three-minute video highlighting their artistic practice), and a required questionnaire supplied by Glenfiddich.  Completed applications must be submitted by midnight eastern standard time on January 25, 2022.

“Providing the opportunity for Canadian artists to collaborate and create in the scenic Scottish highlands is an honour we respect highly,” comments Andy Fairgrieve, Artists in Residence Co-ordinator, William Grant & Sons.  “Each year brings a new selection of passionate artists, and each year we are greatly impressed by the work they create.”

Every year, the Glenfiddich Artist-in-Residence Program receives over 200 applicants, each carefully reviewed from a jury of some of Canada’s most prominent members of the art community.  The 2022 jury includes Michelle Jacques, Head of Exhibitions and Collections & Chief Curator at Remai Modern in Saskatoon; David Diviney, the senior curator at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia in Halifax; Michelle Schultz, Executive Director of Latitude 53 in Edmonton; Stefan Hancherow, Associate Art Curator for RBC in Toronto; Collin Zipp, the director of Platform in Winnipeg; Ivan Jurakic, Director of the University of Waterloo Art Gallery; and the Canadian 2008 Glenfiddich Artists in Residence Prize recipient, Dave Dyment.

“The support for the winning Artists-in-Residence extends far beyond the financial,” comments Dyment.  “Artists have the assistance, resources and the distinctive highland hospitality to produce strong work while enjoying the uniquely idyllic environment.  My time in residency with Glenfiddich was among the best three months of my life and it is an honour to continue the tradition with Canadian artists annually.”

Globally, the Glenfiddich Artist-in-Residence Program has awarded over a hundred artists from countries such as Australia, Chile, China, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Poland, Scotland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, the UK, the US, and Canada since its inception in 2002.  Past winning Canadian artists include Annie Pootoogook, Daniel Barrow, Myfanwy MacLeod, Damian Moppett, Rhonda Weppler & Trevor Mahovsky, Jon Sasaki, Eleanor King, Lee Henderson, Vanessa Maltese, Christof Migone & Marla Hlady, and most recently Dean Baldwin Lew.  Winning mediums of work have spanned painting, sculpture, sound art, video, photography, performance, and installation.

“I’ve found myself longing for the place and the extended experience I gained at the Glenfiddich distillery during my residency,” adds Montreal artist, Dean Baldwin Lew.  “The new connections formed with the other resident artists are especially important, yet the solitude and focus that the residency provides is such a rare and special gift.”

The Summer of 2022 will mark the 21^st anniversary of the global Glenfiddich Artist in Residence program and the 16^th anniversary of the Glenfiddich Artist in Residence program in Canada.  Submissions are accepted from today, until 12:00 a.m. EST on January 25, 2022. The winning Canadian artist will be announced in March 2022.

For more information about the Artist in Residency program, please visit www.glenfiddich.com/ca/artistsinresidence.

For more information regarding Glenfiddich in Canada, please visit glenfiddich.alchemystsinc.com.

To learn more about the world of Glenfiddich globally, please visit www.glenfiddich.com.