ABERDEEN, SCOTLAND – AUGUST 5 2021: Johnstons of Elgin’s MD, George McNeil, will be appointed as Spirit of Speyside’s new chairman.Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival’s annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink has developed into one of the largest events of its kind anywhere in the world. New chairman, George McNeil, (Grey Jacket) who will take over from James Campbell, (Jacket & Tie) pictured at Craigellachie Bridge, Craigellachie on August 5 2021.(Photo: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media)

Spirit of Speyside welcomes return of in-person festival with new chairman 

George McNeil, managing director of Johnstons of Elgin retail division, has been appointed chairman designate of Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, one of the biggest festivals of it’s kind in the world ahead of the return of their in-person festival in November.

First launched in 1999, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is the annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink. The Festival is the ultimate opportunity for travellers, whisky lovers, outdoor activity enthusiasts and the local community to explore, taste and learn about the world-famous Speyside region – home to more whisky distilleries than any other region of the world.

George McNeil will officially take over as chairman from James Campbell, who has held the position for over ten years, during the November festival. Under James’ leadership, the festival has been transformed into a six-day event with over 50 distilleries from around the region taking part.

Commenting on his new role, George McNeil said:

“I’ve lived in Speyside now for 14 years and it’s been very kind to me and my family. I’m looking forward to giving something back to this amazing region by looking after this iconic festival.

“The Spirit of Speyside is on to a winning formula by bringing together a huge variety of whisky companies with local communities and nearly 140 business members in the region and I’m really looking forward to continuing that legacy.”

James Campbell, current chairman of Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, added:

“It’s been my pleasure to act as chairman of Spirit of Speyside for the last decade and give visitors from around the world a taste of Scotland in miniature. Over the years, we’ve seen the festival grow to become an important part of the region and to help support the local economy.

“Earlier this year we brought the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival online with 688 guests from 15 countries around the world logging in but nothing beats being together to celebrate the world’s largest producing whisky region. I look forward to enjoying a dram with George at our first in-person event in two years in November when he officially becomes chairman.”

The full programme of events will be listed on www.spiritofspeyside.com and will be available for preview in late September.  Tickets will go on sale online in September.

About the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

First launched in 1999, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival’s annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink has developed into one of the largest events of its kind anywhere in the world. The Festival is a mecca for the curious beginner and the whisky connoisseur alike. Over the past 20 years, festival events have taken place throughout Speyside, the biggest whisky producing region in Scotland, located in the Moray area in the North-East of the county between Aberdeen and Inverness. This year is the first year that the festival has adopted an online format.

Over the years, the Festival has developed close links with many Speyside businesses and communities who help to fund the festival. It is a true team effort to deliver an ever-improving range of events and services to make the Festival a truly unforgettable experience.

The company is limited by guarantee, it runs the festival with a voluntary board of directors drawn from key areas of the whisky industry along with other local businesses and tourism organisations.

For further information please visit:

Website:  www.spiritofspeyside.com

Facebook: WhiskyFestival

Instagram: spirit_speyside

Twitter:  spirit_speyside

Skene Scotch Whisky has just released a Skene Reserve “Macallan 1989 30 Year Old”,  which was drawn from 1^st fill Oloroso single cask 152034.   This naturally dark beauty was distilled in May 1989 and bottled in September 2019 at the cask strength of 43.2% ABV.

The cask yielded only around 100 bottles.   Some of this Macallan went to Japan.   Skene Scotch Whisky retained the remainder of the whisky in glass in bond,  with the plan of releasing it in new super-premium packaging.   However, having many, many challenges with suppliers before and through the pandemic,  the company thought it better to bottle now using the same bottles and boxes as used for previous Macallan bottlings.   This has enabled Skene Scotch Whisky to offer this sherried Macallan 30 Year Old for the incredible price of just £1,480 for a 70cl bottle.

Skene Reserve 1989 30 Year Old is available now from Skene Scotch Whisky’s online shop at MACALLAN 1989 30 Years Old Single Malt – Skene Scotch Whisky (skenewhisky.com)

SKENE RESERVE – MACALLAN 1989 30YO 

Notes about Skene Scotch Whisky – After a few years away from bottle sales, Skene Whisky are releasing bottlings from a number of ranges.  “Skene Reserve” are single cask premium bottlings of vintage malt whisky (eg the above-mentioned Macallan 30yo).   “Skene Sherry Editions” will be sherry-matured single malts (48% ABV) aimed squarely at drinkers.  “Skene American Oak “Editions” will be ex-bourbon single malt bottlings (again at 48% ABV).  “Skene Peated Malt Editions” will be peated single malt expressions (yet again at 48% ABV).

‘The Sleeping Beauty’ cask of Royal Lochnagar whisky

is awakened after 26 years

 A unique cask of Royal Lochnagar whisky, laid down in 1994, has now been bottled as part of Diageo’s prestigious Casks of Distinction range.

470 bottles will be sold at an auction hosted by online secondary market leaders Whisky Auctioneer 9-13 September 2021.

Bottle number one will include the original cask end painting of ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ painted by Scottish artist Norman Edgar, based on a Scottish Ballet dancer.

All proceeds will go to the Scottish Ballet Endowment Fund to support the future of
Scotland’s national dance company.

Today, Scottish Ballet, Diageo and Whisky Auctioneer announce the release of 470 bottles from a single cask of Royal Lochnagar whisky, which will be sold at auction 9-13 September 2021.

The unique cask was laid down in 1994 at the instigation of Lord MacFarlane of Bearsden, who was at the time Chair of United Distillers and Vice Chair of Scottish Ballet. Scottish artist Norman Edgar was commissioned to paint the cask end portraying Scottish Ballet Principal dancer Nicci Theis in the iconic role of Princess Aurora, the sleeping beauty. It was to be a donation with a difference, an investment in the future of Scotland’s national dance company.

Twenty-six years later, ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ has been awakened and bottled as part of the prestigious Casks of Distinction range. This highly collectible bottle is now ready to be shared with whisky lovers and ballet fans alike, with every pound raised at auction contributing to the Scottish Ballet Endowment Fund. All bottling and auction costs have been generously donated by Diageo and Whisky Auctioneer in support of Scottish Ballet.

The first auction lot will include bottle number one and the unique cask end painting by Norman Edgar depicting Princess Aurora, the sleeping beauty. The first ten lots will also include exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences with Scottish Ballet.

HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay and Patron of Scottish Ballet, said:
‘It is marvellous to know that this unique gift has been bottled and will now be offered for sale in support of the Scottish Ballet Endowment Fund, ensuring a lifelong benefit to all those who love ballet and who love Scotland.’^[1]

Christopher Hampson, CEO/Artistic Director of Scottish Ballet, said:

‘Like all arts organisations, Scottish Ballet has endured a challenging eighteen months unable to perform live, and this income will be vital in ensuring the company’s long-term future and capacity to inspire future audiences, on stage and beyond. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has played their part in bringing this whisky fairytale to life.’

James Mackay, Head of Rare & Exceptional Spirits at Diageo, said:

‘It is with great pride and pleasure that we have bottled ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ Cask of Distinction, beginning a new chapter in this beautiful story, and to offer lovers of Scottish craft and fine arts a chance to appreciate this unique single malt Scotch whisky, while benefiting Scottish Ballet.’

 Joe Wilson, Head of Auction Content at Whisky Auctioneer, said:
‘It’s a privilege to support the Scottish Ballet Endowment Fund by hosting the online auction of this incredibly distinctive Royal Lochnagar release. This whisky has a story to tell and an important cause to support, so we are sure that both whisky and ballet lovers, as well as collectors around the world, will be excited to have the opportunity to acquire such an interesting expression.’

Lord MacFarlane of Bearsden said:
‘It is deeply gratifying that this Royal Lochnagar cask, which I presented to Scottish Ballet in celebration of its 25th anniversary in 1994, is now being awoken. I am delighted that people will now be able to taste this extremely special whisky, but even more importantly the legacy of our donation will be continued through the funds the cask will raise for the Scottish Ballet Endowment Fund.’

Artist Norman Edgar said:
‘A great fan of the artist Edgar Degas, I had never painted any ballet paintings and enjoyed creating the pose after watching a performance of The Sleeping Beauty in Glasgow, with the shape of Aurora’s dress following the circular barrel ends. As a relatively young man at the time, I would also still be around to sample the result!’

Charles MacLean MBE, Master of the Quaich and whisky writer, said:
‘This is as good an example of Royal Lochnagar as I have ever tasted. It has retained the original distillery character, while long aging has developed layers of complexity.’

To find out more and register interest in the auction, visit
https://www.scottishballet.co.uk/whisky

 NOTES 

@ScottishBallet
Twitter / Facebook / Instagram
scottishballet.co.uk 

About Scottish Ballet

• Scottish Ballet, founded in 1969, is Scotland’s national dance company. Based in Glasgow, the company performs regularly across Scotland, throughout the UK and internationally – promoting Scotland’s pioneering spirit far and wide.

• Under CEO/Artistic Director Christopher Hampson, Scottish Ballet presents bold, adventurous performances rooted in strong classical technique, accompanied by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. The company’s broad repertoire includes new versions of the classics and ground-breaking commissions, both on stage and screen.
• Scottish Ballet runs an extensive engagement programme, tailored to the needs of diverse communities, promoting confidence, fostering wellbeing, and encouraging creativity through dance.
• Scottish Ballet is funded by the Scottish Government.
• For more information, visit: scottishballet.co.uk 

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO).

For more information, visit: diageo.com

About Whisky Auctioneer

Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at auction. Founded in 2013 and located in Perth, Scotland, Whisky Auctioneer utilises its expertise and knowledge combined with its auction platform, to increase interest and passion in the whisky and spirits community.

Whisky Auctioneer endeavours to make the market more accessible for buyers and sellers of any background and geography. Its monthly global auctions feature the most comprehensive selection of old, rare and collectible whiskies and spirits available online. Whisky Auctioneer is passionate about connecting these bottles with those who share in their passion and actively support their customers in their aims, whether that be consuming, collecting or investing.

In February 2021, the Perth-based online auction house made history during the iconic sale of The Perfect Collection when a bottle of The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare 60 Year Old sold for a hammer price of £1m, the first time a single bottle of whisky has sold at an online only auction for one million pounds.

Whisky Auctioneer became the first online auction house to sell a million-pound bottle and outperformed the nearest traditional auction house by 200% in value from spirits sales in 2020, showcasing the move that whisky collectors, investors and drinkers have already made online and firmly establishing their leading position within the modern secondary whisky market.

The business currently sees over 100,000 bids per month and has conducted deliveries to 74 countries across the globe. It also opened its first European base in Germany last year.

For more information, visit: whiskyauctioneer.com

SAZERAC COMPANY NAMED AMERICAN WHISKEY PRODUCER OF THE YEAR AT 2021 INTERNATIONAL SPIRITS CHALLENGE 

Louisville, Ky (Aug. 25, 2021) –For the second year in a row, the Sazerac Company was named the American Whiskey Producer of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).

Determined by a weighted points system, Producer of the Year Awards reflect the success of all brands entered into a single category. With 33 American Whiskey medals, including 19 Gold medals, the Sazerac Company came out on top in the category which had 127 total entries. Sazerac was also awarded this coveted title in the 2020 ISC Awards.

ISC Tasting Award winners are chosen over a rigorous 12-day process of blind tastings. Panels of experienced judges award a score for products’ aroma, appearance, taste and finish. Those scores are then combined to determine which medal can be awarded.

For a full list of results from the 2021 International Spirits Challenge, visit https://www.internationalspiritschallenge.com/live/en/page/isc-2021-winners.

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/.

MACALLAN-1991 CASK ACHIEVES WORLD RECORD PRICE AT BONHAMS

The cask yielding 202 bottles sells for HK$4,464,000

The highest per-bottle price (HK$22,099) for any whisky cask at auction

Bonhams Fine and Rare Whisky Sale

– Sell-through rate: 88%

– Sale total: HK$24.5million, eclipsing the pre-sale high estimate

– Karuizawa and Yamazaki whiskies 100% sold

 Bonhams Hong Kong whisky sale year-to-date total (incl. wine):

HK$80.5milion – surpassing the same period in 2019 (HK$67million)

A cask of Macallan-1991-#21429-18/029/1
Distilled 12th December 1991 at the Macallan Distillers Limited, Craigellachie.

Sold for HK$4,464,000

Estimate: HK$3,200,000-4,000,000

Commenting on the result, Daniel Lam, Bonhams Director of Wine and Spirits, Asia, said: “In terms of both buying and selling, 2021 has been a strong and resilient market for whisky. Our year-to-date total has surpassed that for the same period before Covid in 2019. Cask collecting is fast growing as a trend and one which has become a Bonhams speciality. In 2019, we set a world record when we sold a Macallan 1989 cask for a per-bottle price of HK$17,103. The cask in this sale has achieved a per-bottle price of HK$22,099 – and a new world record – a very strong increase in just two years. Meanwhile, Japanese whisky continues to be a hotly-contested field, with Yamazaki and Karuizawa lots 100% sold in our sale. The announcement that the final editions of Karuizawa whisky will be released later this year has fuelled demand.”

Whisky casks hitting 30 years old or above are exceedingly rare in the current market. Distilled by Macallan in December 1991, this 1991 cask was re-racked in 2017 with sherry. Sherry is the preferred choice of wood to give whisky a unique impact of clove, resin, dried fruit and tannin – a sweet palate which most drinkers will find approachable. Its high alcohol content at around 51.5% ABV makes it a highly desirable choice for both long-term collecting and for eventually yielding around 202 bottles for enjoyment. 

Browse all results here:

https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/27039/

Sale: Fine and Rare Whisky20 August 202120/F, One Pacific Place, Admiralty, Hong Kong

NOTES

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

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES LOG STILL DISTILLERY AS CRAFT MEMBER

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Log Still Distillery in Nelson County is the newest and 44th member of the nonprofit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

Cousins J.W. “Wally” Dant III, Lynne Dant, and Charles Dant are building Log Still Distillery as an expansive distilling and tourism experience on the site of the former Dant & Head Distillery that had been shut down since 1961.

The name “Log Still” comes from family history, which states that Joseph Washington Dant fashioned a whiskey still from a hollowed-out poplar log in 1836 and began the family’s rich distilling history.

Since then, generations of Dant family members have owned or been part of several Kentucky distilleries, including J.W. Dant, Cold Spring Distillery, Taylor & Williams Yellowstone Distillery, and Dant & Head Distillery, which also was known as T.J. Pottinger and Beam & Head in years prior to its closing.

But as often happens in the distilling industry, the Dant family sold all of its historic distilling interests not long after the end of Prohibition, as many of the subsequent Dant generation joined the armed services. Eventually, Heaven Hill acquired the J.W. Dant brand and Luxco bought Yellowstone, both of whose products are still sold today.

In 2017, Wally Dant decided to shift gears from his successful health care operations and honor his forefathers with Log Still Distillery, which opened its Tasting Room to the public in May at 225 Dee Head Road in Gethsemane, Ky.

The $36 million project will feature a 20,000-square-foot distillery, Tasting Room with a 50-gallon hybrid still, farm-to-table restaurant, a 12-acre lake, an outdoor amphitheater, a 22,000-square-foot event center, four unique lodging options, private train depot, wooded walking trails, and more.

Current products include Monk’s Road Fifth District Series: Cold Spring Distillery, a 6-year-old single barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Log Still Distillery plans to release a rye whiskey and high rye and wheated Bourbons in the next few years.

“It’s been a dream of mine for years now to get the Dant family back in the Bourbon business, and I’m thankful to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association for helping us make it official,” said Wally Dant, Log Still Distillery president and distiller.

“The work of the KDA is incredibly important to ensuring the preservation of Bourbon’s past and fostering of its future, and we look forward to many years of partnership.”

KDA President Eric Gregory praised the family’s vision in creating an immersive distilling experience that will offer a wide variety of educational and tourism opportunities and bring visitors from around the globe to Kentucky.

“The Dant family is building a stunning destination that is a great example of the future of Kentucky Bourbon tourism,” he said. “Visitors now yearn to relax and savor our iconic Bourbon culture and lifestyle, and Log Still will offer many unique amenities to make that happen.

“The KDA and its members applaud Wally, Lynne, and Charles for their hard work, investment, and inspiration. We proudly welcome them back to our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

Learn more at https://www.logstilldistillery.com.

Log Still Distillery is the KDA’s 25th Craft-level member, aging less than 10,000 barrels a year.

Log Still Distillery also is now eligible to join the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour^®.

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

Kentucky Bourbon is one of the Commonwealth’s most historic and treasured industries, a thriving $8.6 billion economic engine that generates more than 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1 billion each year.

In addition, the industry is in the middle of a $2.3 billion building boom, from innovative new tourism centers to expanded production facilities, all to meet the growing global thirst for Kentucky Bourbon.

There are now nearly 10 million barrels of Bourbon and other spirits aging in Kentucky warehouses, the most in the modern era of American Whiskey. Of that, 9.3 million are just Bourbon, the first time since 1967 that the number of Bourbon barrels topped nine million.

Bourbon production has skyrocketed more than 360 percent since the turn of the century, with Kentucky distillers filling 2.1 million barrels in 2019, the second year in a row that Kentucky distillers have filled two million barrels, and the first time that’s happened in the modern era.

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

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

Finally, Gregory noted that the KDA has worked with state legislators for years to modernize archaic laws and Prohibition-era policies, especially in the tourism arena, which is allowing Log Still and other distilleries to create such impressive and appealing visitor experiences.

“We appreciate the leadership and partnership of the Kentucky General Assembly in helping our distillers achieve their full potential as Napa Valley-type experiences and strengthening our rightful title as the one, true, and authentic home for bourbon,” he said. “The proof is here.”

For more information, contact: Eric Gregory, KDA President, (502) 875-9351

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary 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 historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, 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 

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™ and KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Make It Memorable – Enjoy Responsibly

INTRODUCING TALES OF THE MACALLAN VOLUME I –

THE STORY OF AN EXTRAORDINARY WHISKY-MAKING LEGACY

The Macallan has unveiled Tales of The Macallan Volume I, the first limited edition whisky in a new series of single malts which tells the story of The Macallan pioneers and their whisky-making legacy.

Tales of The Macallan Volume I, The Laird of Easter Elchies (1659 – 1715), is an homage to Captain John Grant, who in 1700 realised the potential of Easter Elchies Estate, the site of The Macallan whisky distillery since 1824. He set new standards of excellence, and his story reflects The Macallan’s heritage, craftsmanship and pursuit of uncompromised excellence for nearly 200 years.

Born in 1659 in a remote location on the banks of the River Spey, John Grant had a military career in his youth, became a captain and fought in the war. The Grants had owned the land since 1543, but it was on John’s return from war, that he transformed the wild landscape he had inherited into the ‘garden of Elchies’, the birthplace of The Macallan. A natural farmer, John worked the land to create the perfect conditions for growing barley and his labours helped to sustain a small farming community that would one day use its crops to distil whisky. In 1700, he extended and refurbished Easter Elchies House which is now The Macallan’s Spiritual Home.

Tales of The Macallan Volume I is crafted by Lead Whisky Maker, Sarah Burgess, to honour John Grant’s legacy. Distilled in 1950 and bottled in 2021, it is a distinctive and rare expression with exceptional flavour and character.

Sarah Burgess, Lead Whisky Maker for The Macallan, said: “Tales of The Macallan tells of remarkable individuals and an exceptional spirit. Each of these people left their mark on The Macallan with their unique contribution and legacy alive in our brand’s DNA and in every drop of our whisky to this day.

“Tales of The Macallan Volume I is a tribute to Captain John Grant, who paved the way for The Macallan and brought the influence of nature and community spirit. As custodians of the Estate, we are continuously inspired by our environment, upholding our responsibility to nurture and protect the wonderful natural habitat that is home to our distillery.

“Just like The Macallan Estate and Easter Elchies House, this precious whisky echoes of a very old tale. Wood spices, sweet wood smoke and antique oak are omnipresent and make a perfect liaison with the delicate symphony of ripe fruits and spices.”

Encased in a handcrafted Lalique crystal decanter, this single malt is concealed within an extraordinary almanac book. A work of art, each chapter tells the story of John Grant and features illustrations by Andrew Davidson. United by a dedication to craftsmanship and creativity, The Macallan collaborated with the illustrator, renowned for his traditional print techniques using wood engravings, to create a collection of hand-crafted illustrations depicting Captain John Grant’s story.

The Macallan also combined the skills of master craftsmen in crystal, leather and paper to create the unique packaging. Long-standing partner Lalique fashioned the flawless crystal decanter etched with one of Davidson’s illustrations. Attracted by a shared sense of heritage, craftsmanship and creativity, Lalique and The Macallan first came together in 2005 and since then have collaborated on a range of exquisite decanters and products. Tales of The Macallan marks the next chapter in this long-standing partnership and is a testament to the two houses’ shared quest for excellence.

Traditional London-based bookbinders, Shepherds, Sangorski & Sutcliffe and Zaehnsdorf, created the unique book, hand-crafted using luxurious leather and 24ct gold leaf, to conceal the decanter within its pages, and artisan printer, Imprimerie du Marais in Paris, expertly printed each individual page. 

An animation featuring some of Davidson’s illustrations and set to an original piece of music composed by Nicola Benedetti has been created to bring to life the story of John Grant.

Limited to 350 decanters worldwide, Tales of The Macallan Volume I has an RRSP of $80,000 / £60,000 / €65,000 and will be available at The Macallan Estate, The Macallan Boutiques and premium off-trade retailers from August 2021.

For further information visit www.themacallan.com

Whisky Maker’s Notes

Colour: Golden Aiguillette

ABV: 44.6%

Nose: Grapefruit zest, antique oak, vanilla, melon, wood smoke, nutmeg, ripe plum and almond.

Palate: Peach and apple, wood spice with ginger and hints of clove, sweet wood smoke and Yuzu.

Finish: A medium finish with citrus and sweet oak.

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.

About Lalique

Founded in 1888 by renowned and avant-garde artist René Lalique, Lalique is one of the crown jewels of France’s crystal glass houses. Lalique is a symbol of unique know-how and craftmanship, a lifestyle luxury brand with an immediately recognisable style.

Lalique enriches our everyday lives, bringing artistic style to singular creations in six areas: decorative items, interior design, perfumes, jewellery, works of art and hospitality.

The brand enters into exclusive collaborations with talented artists, designers and other luxury brands, to create stunning objects and collections based on both partners’ know-how and expertise. Since 1922, all pieces are handcrafted in the house’s sole manufacturing site, located in the Alsace region in France.

www.lalique.com

Whisky Shouldn’t Cost the Earth…

A new whisky sample subscription has launched in partnership with Prevented Ocean Plastic, with the aim of removing plastic waste from environments where it is likely to be washed out to sea, whilst sharing great whisky.

Whisky Pioneer will send out a minimum of 5cl per month to subscribers, focussing mainly on single malts, with information included in the delivery and additional found on the website, WhiskyPioneer.co.uk. Whenever possible 6cl will be shared, and a number of new releases and exclusives have already been lined up for whisky fans to enjoy.

Importantly, by joining Whisky Pioneer whisky fans will be removing waste plastic from the world, as Whisky Pioneer bottles are made from 100% recycled plastic that has been collected from coastal communities. Instead of it being washed out into the ocean, where salt and sun degradation make the plastic largely unusable for recycling, it is turned into a useful product. “We can take action as an industry, and as consumers, by preferring recycled plastic products, by choosing Prevented Ocean Plastic,” says Raffi Schieir of Prevented Ocean Plastic

After use, the bottle can enter the recycling system ensuring that plastic is used again, or better still it can be reused. Whisky Pioneer rewards members who return their bottles with free whisky, allowing those bottles to be used again and again.

Together we can make a difference!

Notes

About Whisky Pioneer

WhiskyPioneer.co.uk

Launches August 2021

£7.95 per month/delivery
Minimum 5cl per delivery

Cancel at any time

About Prevented Ocean Plastic (POP)

PreventedOceanPlastic.com

What are the goals of the POP program?
Increase demand for recycled plastic instead of new plastic. Create income opportunities in coastal communities. Prevent ocean plastic at scale

What is Prevented Ocean Plastic (POP)?
POP is recycled plastic collected from coastal areas at risk for ocean plastic pollution. This ocean bound plastic, according to academic definitions, would end up in the ocean if not collected for recycling. Prevented Ocean Plastic is the first fully traceable, certified recycled material from coastlines available in large volumes for a wide range of commercial applications, ranging from food packaging to cosmetics to PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Allowing brands to offer their consumers packaging that is a better plastic choice.

How much has already been collected?

Prevented Ocean Plastic is the largest program of its kind, preventing over 1,000 tonnes of plastic from entering the ocean every month. The POP program is a product line supplied by Bantam Materials who have prevented over 10 billion bottles from entering the ocean since 2005. This prevention at scale provides reliable income to coastal communities for the recycling of billions of bottles yearly.

The Problem

Projections suggest that by 2050, our oceans will contain more plastic by weight than fish.

Why Prevented Ocean Plastic?
Once a bottle is in the ocean, it is too late. The salt and sun degrade the plastic making it largely unusable for recycling. Recycled plastic is washed, decontaminated and tested to ensure it adheres to EU standards for packaging. The main reason new plastic sells more than recycled plastic is because it is cheaper, not because it is better quality. Each shipment of Prevented Ocean Plastic is certified by OceanCycle, the leader in providing third party audits for ocean bound plastics. The Prevented Ocean Plastic program elevates and aligns plastic recycling standards across coastlines at risk from ocean plastic pollution.

JACK DANIEL’S LAUNCHES FIRST AGE-STATED WHISKEY IN OVER 100 YEARS

Ten-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Available in Limited Quantities Across the U.S. in September 2021 

LYNCHBURG, Tenn. (August 24, 2021) – The Jack Daniel Distillery announces the release of Jack Daniel’s 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, the brand’s first 10-year age-stated whiskey in more than 100 years. The limited-availability product, which will become an annual release, celebrates the modern whiskey-making expertise of the Jack Daniel Distillery while paying tribute to the brand’s past.

“Over the last decade, we’ve been experimenting to craft a product that would properly honor the whiskey Jack Daniel was bottling at the end of the 1800’s,” said Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Chris Fletcher. “All of us at the Jack Daniel Distillery are thrilled to release an age-stated whiskey for the first time in over 100 years to be enjoyed by all. This product has been hand-crafted by our distillery team in Lynchburg over the last 10 summers all while keeping up with the growing demand for Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey around the world. This 10-year-old whiskey celebrates our modern-day whiskey making, while also paying tribute to our founder and history. It is a special time for us all.”

Fletcher evolved the distillery’s previous aged methods by maturing Jack Daniel’s iconic Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey in oak barrels that were relocated throughout the barrelhouse to extend the aging process over the past ten years. The result is a more complex, hand-crafted whiskey with a rare flavor profile. Bottled at 97 proof—a first for the Jack Daniel Distillery—Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey 10-Year-Old features notes of dry fig and raisin laced with oak on the nose, warm butterscotch alongside soft fruit and smoke on the palate, and an incredibly long finish with sweet tobacco and spice.

The 10-Year-Old bottle design is also inspired by the brand’s history, featuring a hand-drawn iteration of the original cartouche that appeared on Jack Daniel’s aged-stated bottles a century ago.

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey 10-Year-Old retails for $70 in a 750mL size with the first batch hitting shelves in limited quantities in early September across the United States. Visit www.jackdaniels.com for more information.

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.

Your friends at Jack Daniel’s remind you to drink responsibly.

Karuizawa is renowned as one of the legendary whisky distilleries of Japan, having created some of the most coveted and collectable whiskies in the world. This latest stunning single cask set, created with Glencairn Crystal, being no-exception… 

This summer the distillery’s incredibly rare 1981 vintage single cask malt whiskies are being released in exclusive sets, encased in stunning, bespoke Glencairn Crystal glassware and lunawood casing.

Each exquisite set includes two bottles of the precious Japanese single malt whisky, one from each of two remaining casks (no. 4059 and 6183). Only 30 sets of ‘The Legend of Asama’ are available and will be released over a three-year period.

Aged for 20 years at the Karuizawa Distillery, these casks were transferred to Chichibu Distillery, Saitama Prefecture, where their custodian was Ichibori-san, the legendary former distiller at Karuizawa.

In recent years Karuizawa whisky has become celebrated within the whisky world and highly sought-after amongst whisky collectors. The Karuizawa Distillery was based at the foot of Mount Asama, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, in Central Honshu. The site was perfect for whisky making – there was no shortage of snow melt from Mount Asama and it was volcanic-rock-filtered and mineral rich. This aided fermentation and contributed to the clean, crisp flavour of the whisky. Temperate summer temperatures and cool winters were ideal for maturing the spirit.

Only a tiny quantity of Karuizawa was released as a single malt during the distillery’s lifetime and almost all of that only ever released in Japan. When the Japanese economy collapsed during the 1990s, Japanese whisky distilleries began to close, Karuizawa Distillery included, sadly closing its doors in 2001: it was later demolished in 2016.

After several years of negotiation, in 2011 the remaining stock of 364 casks were sold and since have gradually been bottled and sold – many achieving phenomenal prices at auctions: until now only two casks were remaining. Renowned whisky collector and connoisseur Mahesh Patel, Founder of Universal Whisky Experience, chose casks 4059 and 6183 in 2011 and kept them at Chichibu Distillery to continue their maturation until 2017 when some of the whisky was bottled and sold in tiny batches. The last remaining bottles from each cask have been held back until now, for this exclusive ‘Legend of Asama’ release.

Patel said: “I am extremely excited to finally be releasing this very special whisky to the world. I wanted to ensure that when these exceptional whiskies were released, they were presented in a beautiful way that could tell the story of their turbulent past and be celebrated by the person lucky enough to purchase them. This vision, along with Glencairn Crystal’s creativity and innovation has brought a part of this spectacular distillery back to life.”

The bottles in which the Karuizawa malt is presented are decorated with Noh masks – the Noh is Sino Japanese for skill, craft or talent which well describes the care with which the whisky has been made. Noh theatre is a unique form of dance-drama performed in Japan since the 14^th century integrating masks, elaborate costumes, props and music with chanted drama and dance based on old traditional tales.

The packaging and presentation of the sets has been produced by the award winning Glencairn Crystal Studio in East Kilbride, Scotland – the creators of the world’s favourite whisky glass, the Glencairn Glass.

The set comprises five tubes – two containing the precious Noh bottles, two holding empty handmade crystal decanters with gold caps, uniquely decorated with detailed engravings of the original labels, and the last holding two specially created Glencairn cut crystal glasses and a Glencairn water-jug, of exclusive design.

The tubes are hand crafted from lunawood in two sections which fasten together with a screw-thread hand cut into the wood and are works of art in their own right. The design pays tribute to Mount Asama, alongside the Olympic Games taking place in Japan this month.

Scott Davidson, New Product Development Director at Glencairn Crystal said: “The inspiration for the packaging can be summed up as ‘Japanese simplicity’, understated, clean, and made only from natural materials. The whole display stands on an elevated plinth, arranged in a manner which reflects the noble elevations of Mount Asama. It has been an absolute honour for our talented team of craftspeople to be involved in this remarkable project”.

Each set is also accompanied by a signed and numbered hardback book written by whisky writer Charles MacLean MBE featuring the story behind ‘The Legend of Asama’ collection and tasting notes.

For details about ‘The Legend of Asama’ Karuizawa 1981 collection please visit: www.legendofasama.com  or email karuizawa@legendsofasama.com. Price on application.

For further information about Glencairn Crystal please visit: www.glencairn.co.uk

About Karuizawa 1981:

• The casks were bottled by hand in 2017 at natural strength, without colour adjustment or chill-filtration.

• Each ‘Legend of Asama’ set contains:

• Karuizawa 1981, 35 Year Old Single Cask Japanese Single Malt, 60.6% Vol, Cask 4059
• Karuizawa 1981, 35 Year Old Single Cask Japanese Single Malt, 56.5% Vol, Cask 6183

About Glencairn Crystal

• The Scottish family business, Glencairn Crystal Studio, has been at the cutting edge of high-quality decanter and glassware design, innovation, and creativity for 40 years and has been commissioned by hundreds of different brands to create hand-crafted bespoke packaging, often for the oldest and most luxurious spirits ever released.

• The company also produces The Glencairn Glass, the world’s favourite whisky glass, with over 3.5 million glasses being sold every year in every corner of the globe.

• This year marks the 40th birthday of Glencairn Crystal Studio, founded by Raymond Davidson in 1981. To learn more about Glencairn Crystal’s most successful and pioneering decanters, please visit: glencairn.co.uk/40th-birthday