CASKSHARE APPOINTS FLAVOURLY AS NEW FULFILMENT PARTNER

Online cask spirits marketplace, Caskshare has agreed a new partnership with expert drinks sellers, Flavourly. The new deal will see Flavourly provide logistics, packaging and courier relationships for Caskshare’s ever growing whisky community and retail services.

Since its launch earlier this year, Caskshare has been bringing an array of specialist casks to the market, revolutionising the way that consumers engage with distilleries and cask owners to experience single cask whiskies, a bottle at a time. Meaning whisky lovers can enjoy and build a portfolio of cask spirits at a fraction of the price of an entire cask.

Buyers can choose from a wide range of liquids and cask varieties, from more traditional ex-Bourbon to innovative casks such as Barossa Valley ex-red wine and Tokaji Aszú casks, all of which are uniquely imparted with distinctive flavours and aromas.

Experts in selling craft beer online, Flavourly launched their Fulfilled By Flavourly service earlier this year, with behemoth Innis & Gunn one of the first users. The Fulfilled By Flavourly model sees drinks brands benefit from Flavourly’s logistics expertise, established courier relationships and award winning service reputation. The Fulfilled By Flavourly fulfilment service helps brands to increase capacity without increasing service costs.

Caskshare is opening up the often-intimidating world of single malt whisky and making cask owning available to all. The whisky provider will continue their customer relations and the running of their website, but the new partnership will allow Caskshare to focus on its online curation of whiskies and community building while Flavourly manages courier and logistical services.

David Nicol, founder of Caskshare commented: “Partnering with Flavourly offers us the ability to focus on engaging with whisky fans and industry partners whilst having Flavourly focus on scalable and timely logistics. Our technical integration means that we are running an efficient and well-integrated platform that can take orders from our Caskshare platform directly into Flavourly’s logistics capabilities.”

Ali Stewart, CEO, Flavourly commented: “Our ‘Fulfilled by Flavourly’ model allows Caskshare to focus on the exciting task of opening up the cask ownership sector, safe in the knowledge that their delivery needs are fully covered by our best in class logistics service.”

www.caskshare.com
@caskshare

World’s first 100% community-owned distillery launches first whisky 

GlenWyvis Distillery’s inaugural release Single Malt Whisky is the first whisky to be made in Dingwall in almost a century

Embargoed Friday 10^th December 2021, 00:01; The world’s first 100% community-owned distillery, GlenWyvis Distillery, has launched its first-ever whisky.

3,600 individually numbered bottles of the three-year-old GlenWyvis Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky have been allocated to GlenWyvis Distillery shareholders, whose investment enabled the build and development of the distillery. 

A further 2,000 bottles were available to pre-order in October 2020 and sold out almost immediately. 200 bottles will also be available at selected local retailers and on-trade premises throughout Scotland.

Made from a batch of 18 casks, including 15 first fill ex-Tennessee whiskey (80%), two first-fill ex-Moscatel (15%) and one refill Hogshead (5%), the grain-forward whisky showcases the unique fruitiness of extra-long fermentation. The whisky is 50% ABV, non-chill filtered, and no colouring added.

The nose of the whisky is light and floral with a hint of malty sweetness. The palate brings a burst of rich stone-fruit, giving way to brown sugar, with a finish of lingering vanilla balanced with ripe orchard fruit.

GlenWyvis Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the first whisky to be produced in Dingwall in almost 100 years, with the last whisky distillery, Ben Wyvis, closing its doors in 1926.

Matthew Farmer, Distillery Manager at GlenWyvis Distillery, said: “We are so excited to be launching GlenWyvis Distillery’s first whisky. Our journey over the past few years and the creation of GlenWyvis Distillery is thanks to our many shareholders so it is only fitting that they will be among the first to try our first whisky.

“The 2018 distillation of 18 casks has produced a delicious whisky. Young whisky brings you so close to the grain – this is the first step, and it is pure GlenWyvis. This first step is part of a long journey for GlenWyvis Distillery, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us.”

Board Chairman David Graham added: “Present and past directors will join me in expressing real pride and admiration for the dedicated GlenWyvis team on reaching this significant milestone and producing Dingwall’s first whisky in almost 100 years.

“Our small team has worked with passion to produce a fantastic product for all our shareholders and customers, and I look forward to raising a dram to each and every one of them and to the future of GlenWyvis Distillery.”

For further information on GlenWyvis Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, please visit: www.glenwyvis.com

Notes 

Tasting notes 

NOSE: Light and floral, with a hint of malty sweetness.

PALATE: A burst of rich stone-fruit, giving way to brown sugar.

FINISH: A long, lingering vanilla balanced with ripe orchard fruit.

50% ABV, non-chill filtered, no colouring added.

The bottle

The design of the GlenWyvis Whisky bottles is inspired by the local area. On each bottle you will see contour lines – this is a map of Ben Wyvis, the mountain that is the backdrop to the distillery. You will also see birds on the bottle – these are Red Kites, a majestic bird of prey with a forked tail that you will often see around the distillery and the surrounding area.

In addition, the bottle is finished with a natural cork stopper and all of its packaging is recyclable. 

About GlenWyvis Distillery

Nestled beneath the sprawling mass of Ben Wyvis in the Scottish Highlands, GlenWyvis Distillery was established in 2015. The idea was to unite the community of Dingwall through the creation of a distillery principally owned by local people.

Dingwall’s last whisky distillery closed in 1926. After a 90-year absence, GlenWyvis Distillery revived the town’s lost distilling tradition, and made its own history in 2016 by running a record-breaking open share offer. More than 3,000 like-minded people invested in GlenWyvis to create the first ever 100% community-owned distillery.

https://glenwyvis.com/

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https://www.instagram.com/glenwyvis/

https://twitter.com/glenwyvis

Beam Suntory and Suntory Announce Peatland Water Sanctuary Initiative in Scotland

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR^® EXPANDS WITH FOUR NEW DISTILLERIES ADDED TO ADVENTURE

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As the Kentucky Distillers’ Association begins its celebration of a decade of experiences along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®, four new distilleries have been added to the country’s first-ever adventure that showcases micro distilling craftsmanship.

The newest additions are:

The Bard Distillery in Graham, Muhlenberg County in Western Kentucky

5080 Highway 175 South–Graham, Ky

www.thebarddistillery.com

Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, the Capital City in Central Kentucky

4445 McCracken Pike–Frankfort, Ky

www.castleandkey.com

Copper & Kings Distillery in Louisville, the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and KBT Craft Tour

1121 E Washington Street–Louisville, Ky

www.copperandkings.com

Log Still Distillery in Gethsemane in Nelson County near Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World

225 Dee Head Road–New Haven, Ky

www.logstilldistillery.com

KDA President Eric Gregory said the new members swell the ranks of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® to an all-time high of 23 distilleries. The KDA created the statewide journey in 2012 as the nation’s first attraction to feature the burgeoning boutique distilling movement.

Coupled with the 18 larger-scale distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour, the KDA now boasts a record 41 immersive experiences for Bourbon and spirits lovers to enjoy when visiting the Bluegrass State. The KDA founded the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour in 1999.

“Our Kentucky Bourbon Trail experiences continue to recover and rebound quickly from the COVID-19 pandemic and travel restrictions,” Gregory said. “We are thrilled to welcome these four new stops and encourage visitors to seek out this next round of additions.”

The KBT Craft Tour® has tallied almost two million distillery tours since its inception.

“The growth in the number of experiences and popularity of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour over the past 10 years has been phenomenal,” said Adam Johnson, Senior Director of the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Experiences.

“We always look forward to adding more for our Bourbon-loving visitors to see and taste.”

The four new distillery experiences are featured in the brand new 2022 Edition of the Bourbon Trail Passport & Field Guide™, which was released for online pre-orders in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® online shop over Thanksgiving weekend.

The new Field Guide will be available for purchase at participating distilleries by mid-December.

The KBT Craft Tour® is divided into four regions — Northern, Central, Western and Bluegrass — with unique challenge coins commemorating the finish of each upon completion. After finishing all four regions, guests are awarded a collectible barrel stave tray to display their coins.

The 23 participating distilleries are:

NORTHERN REGION

New Riff Distilling, Newport

Second Sight Spirits, Ludlow

The Old Pogue Distillery, Maysville

Boone County Distilling Co., Independence

Neeley Family Distillery, Sparta

CENTRAL REGION

Copper & Kings American Brandy Co., Louisville

Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Crestwood

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., Louisville

Jeptha Creed Distillery, Shelbyville

Log Still Distillery, Gethsemane

Limestone Branch Distillery, Lebanon

Preservation Distillery, Bardstown

WESTERN REGION

The Bard Distillery, Graham

Boundary Oak Distillery, Radcliffe

Casey Jones Distillery, Hopkinsville

Dueling Grounds Distillery, Franklin

MB Roland Distillery, Pembroke

BLUEGRASS REGION

Barrel House Distilling Co., Lexington

Bluegrass Distillers, Lexington

Castle & Key Distillery, Frankfort

Hartfield & Co., Paris

James E. Pepper Distillery, Lexington

Castle & Key Distillery owner Will Arvin said, “It is exciting to see our vision of offering guests top quality Kentucky Spirits at our iconic distillery come to life. We are thrilled to share our historic site with visitors and help them craft lasting memories.”

“Joining the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour was one of our main goals when we opened our distillery in late 2019,” said Kim Bard, owner of The Bard Distillery. “We could not be more thrilled to be in the company of the other great distilleries and for the continual support we receive from the KDA.”

Head Distiller Brandon O’Daniel said Copper & Kings is excited to be joining the KBTCT as an American Brandy distillery deeply rooted in Bourbon Country.

“While our story and spirit may be different, Brandy and Bourbon have co-existed in Kentucky for a long time. We’re looking forward to progressing this spirited collaboration with the KBTCT.”

Log Still Distillery COO Lynne Dant said, “Having Log Still Distillery opening for our guests, and now officially as part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, is truly special. This is an exciting step in the process of reviving our family distilling legacy.”

Learn more at www.kybourbontrail.com and www.kybourbon.com.

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

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

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

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

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

Attendance at the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® distilleries has skyrocketed more than 300 percent in the last 10 years. Total attendance in 2019 – before the global pandemic – was nearly two million.

Paul Tomaszewski, co-founder and Head Distiller at MB Roland Distillery in Christian County, was one of the founding KBTCT members in 2012. He said, “Over the past ten years it has been so much fun to see distillery tourism grow with the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. With new members almost every year and old members growing, we look forward to the next ten years.”

The Kentucky Distillers’ Association is a 501(c)(6) non-profit trade association that passionately unites, promotes, protects and elevates the Commonwealth’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. The KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. 

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™, KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME®, ORDER OF THE WRIT®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TALES®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL WELCOME CENTER®,, URBAN BOURBON TRAIL® and THE PROOF IS HERE® are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. 

Please enjoy Bourbon like a true Kentuckian – Responsibly

Construction of Dunphail Distillery underway

Work on new Speyside whisky distillery and visitor centre begins

Founders’ Club and initial private cask offerings launched

Dunphail Distillery today announced that following significant initial investment into the new business, that construction was underway at the single malt whisky distillery and visitor centre based south of Forres in the Speyside region of Scotland. The build is planned to take approximately 12 months to complete.

The 200,000 LPA capacity site, converted from an existing farm steading, is aiming to shift the perceptions of what Scotch whisky can be. Dunphail will adopt a single-minded approach to its production, utilising time-honoured processes such as on-site floor maltings, traditional kilning, long fermentations and direct-fired stills. Through this resolutely traditional mindset, character and flavour will be placed ahead of yield in order to craft spirits that possess the essence and distinctiveness of whisky the way it used to be made.

“We’re thrilled to be starting the construction of Dunphail Distillery” said spokesperson Matt McKay. “We fundamentally believe that the most charaterful whiskies in the world are created from the finest ingredients and are crafted using authentic traditional processes. At Dunphail we’ll be applying our established expertise in developing world-class whiskies and employing the traditions of the past to shape the whisky of tomorrow.”

To mark the commencement of the construction of the distillery, Dunphail will be launched its Founders’ Club and initial private cask offering (via www.dunphaildistillery.com) from 1pm on Friday 10th December 2021.

Dunphail Founders’ Club members will receive a bottle of the distillery’s inaugural single malt whisky (expected in 2026) plus four exclusive releases including the first peated whisky produced at the distillery, two Founder member-only Gonzalez Byass single sherry casks and a specially commissioned ‘commemorative’ release from Bimber Distillery in London that celebrated the important role that Bimber’s pursuit of tradition has played in the establishment of Dunphail’s values and production processes.

Founders’ membership is priced at £695 and also includes a host of additional benefits such as 10% discount on online purchases, notice of future releases and a welcome pack containing branded nosing glasses.

Alongside the Founders’ Club, the distillery’s inaugral private cask programme has launched offering the opportunity for families, friends and enthusiasts to lay down their own stock of Dunphail single malt and enjoy its development from spirit to maturity. 200 litre ex-bourbon barrels, 125 litre Pedro Ximenez and 125 litre oloroso sherry cask are offered in both unpeated and peated styles, with prices ranging £3,800 – £6,400.

About Dunphail Distillery

Our firm belief in the importance of high-quality barley and the use of onsite traditional floor malting and kilning ensures that Dunphail’s spirit is a product of uniqueness, shaped by generations of rich distilling heritage. We craft the finest whisky the way it used to be made – by hand and by heart.

IGNITE YOUR SENSES WITH THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY THIS CHRISTMAS:

SMWS PARTNERS WITH SCOTLAND’S FIRST FRAGRANCE HOUSE

This Christmas, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society has teamed up with Kingdom Scotland to pair single cask whiskies with two gorgeous perfumes

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has collaborated with Scotland’s first fragrance house, Kingdom Scotland, pairing SMWS single cask whiskies with two luscious perfumes. Available to sample at Society venues in London, Glasgow and Edinburgh – including Edinburgh’s Kaleidoscope Bar, Whisky Magazine’s ‘Whisky Bar of the year’ – the partnership explores the fascinating relationship between whisky and perfume.

The Kingdom scents Metamorphic and Portal have been expertly paired with SMWS Flavour Profiles Lightly Peated and Juicy Oak & Vanilla. The collaboration will bring to life Society guests’ olfactory systems (sense of smell), igniting the senses at Society venues across the UK this festive season.

METAMORPHIC paired with LIGHTLY PEATED
Inspired by metamorphic rock, Metamorphic fuses black pepper and tobacco, incense, minerals and rose absolute. As it’s warmed on the skin, the scent reveals a base of amber resin and leather. A natural fit for the Lightly Peated Flavour Profile, the scent was matched with bottling ‘Peat fire tales on Orkney’.

PORTAL paired with JUICY OAK & VANILLA

Portal evokes a fresh, outdoorsy, gusting nose with herbaceous botanicals and bergamot, resting on a veritable forest floor of vetiver and Scots pine. Sampled & sprayed with ‘Summer garden curiosity’, a match made in heaven for Juicy Oak & Vanilla.

Inspired by a career in the aromatic world of luxury Scotch whisky, Kingdom Scotland founder Imogen Russon-Taylor has created a fragrance house with a difference.

Kingdom’s scents capture the history and majestic landscapes of Scotland in a contemporary way. The perfumes capture stories, experiences and dramatic contrasts at the heart of a land that enthrals the imagination.

Expertly crafted using only the most precious natural and aromatic ingredients. Kingdom is Scotland’s first fragrance house creating evocative and modern, unisex scents.

Commenting on the collaboration, Imogen Russon-Taylor said: “I’m delighted to be working with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society. My background is in luxury whisky, so to be working with such a well-respected organisation is a dream.

“Your sense of smell is an incredible thing. It possesses the same characteristics as a dram, especially a Society dram, by transporting you away to great memories and special places.

“I can’t wait to hear the feedback from Society guests this Christmas, I’m very confident these pairings will inspire new conversations on appreciating fine spirits.”

Belonging to the world’s most entertaining whisky club gives you access to exclusive Members’ Rooms, partner bar discounts, colourful tasting events, whisky education, and a monthly members’ magazine Unfiltered.

Click here to take part in this truly unique sensory journey.

The Christmas whisky gift that keeps on giving all year round. There’s so much more than whisky to appreciate when your loved one joins the Society for just £65 this Christmas: https://cutt.ly/oTvSO4X 

SMWS EDINBURGH

28 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 1JX

The Vaults, 87 Giles St, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6BZ

SMWS GLASGOW

38 Bath St, Glasgow G2 1HG

SMWS LONDON

19 Greville St, London EC1N 8SQ

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

f:  https://cutt.ly/WYnKFwl

i: https://cutt.ly/KYnMUix

t:  https://cutt.ly/wYnMmn2

yt:  https://cutt.ly/tYnMEl7

#SMWS

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 27,000 members and branches around the world.
• The SMWS bottles rare single malt whisky, and a range of other spirits
• The Society bottles single malts, unique single casks and exclusive blends
• The Society has bottled whisky from more than 140 distilleries from Scotland and beyond
• The Society offers a new batch of around 20 single malt whiskies every month
• The Society offers a variety of membership packages that can be tailored. Please see:https://cutt.ly/aQGwfkH
• For more information about the Society, visit:https://cutt.ly/HQF6PTv
• Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk

About Kingdom Scotland

Kingdom Scotland is a timeless realm explored in scent. This is Scotland’s first fragrance house and their luxury perfumes are unisex, sustainable, ethical and expertly crafted in Scotland. Available at the SMWS, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Les Senteurs, Gleneagles and The Balmoral Hotel Edinburgh.

Kingdom Scotland

@kingdomscotland Instagram and Facebook

#madeofscotland

A Night on Earth in Scotland:

The Macallan Estate unveils an extraordinary festive experience

The Macallan Estate has unveiled a unique festive experience inspired by, and carefully curated to honour, its latest whisky expression, A Night on Earth in Scotland.

For one night only, on Friday 10 December, guests are invited to journey to The Macallan Estate after hours for an intimate evening of fine dining and an extraordinary whisky tasting.

Decorated for the festive season, including a magnificent Christmas tree stretching towards the distillery’s iconic roof, A Night on Earth, The Macallan Estate Experience provides a unique opportunity to experience The Macallan in all its seasonal splendour. With limited spaces available, it is a highly exclusive and intimate experience.

On arrival at The Macallan Estate, guests will be welcomed with an exclusive cocktail to be enjoyed in front of The Macallan Whisky Wall – a showcase of some of the brand’s most iconic single malts.

This warm welcome is followed by a bespoke seven-course tasting menu of the finest seasonal produce designed by Head Chef, Pawel Sowa, with a tasteful selection of wines and whiskies carefully selected by The Macallan Estate sommelier to complement the evening meal.

After dinner, guests will retreat to The Macallan Bar, home to the world’s largest selection of Macallan whiskies available to sample. The Macallan Bar overlooks Easter Elchies House – the spiritual home of The Macallan which has appeared on every bottle of The Macallan for almost 200 years.

Here, a tutored tasting of The Macallan’s latest expression, A Night on Earth in Scotland, which reveals the story of Scotland’s world-famous Hogmanay festivities and captures the universal joy of celebrating the change of year, will be enjoyed.

Stuart Cassells, General Manager at The Macallan Estate, said:

“Christmas is a special time of year where we can gather with family and friends, reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to the future with optimism and anticipation.

“We can’t wait to welcome guests to The Macallan Estate for a truly special festive experience. A Night on Earth, The Macallan Estate Experience is an opportunity to celebrate with friends and family here at The Macallan, savouring the true meaning of Christmas – quality time, spent together.”

The first in a new limited edition gifting series, A Night on Earth in Scotland is a collaboration with acclaimed Japanese-French illustrator Erica Dorn, whose artwork has featured in films by leading director, Wes Anderson.

Presented as part of innovative multi-layered packaging that provides an exceptional unboxing experience, Erica Dorn’s playful abstract illustrations are inspired by the historic fire rituals dominant in New Year celebrations around the world.

They also reveal some distinctive Hogmanay customs, including the tradition of first footing: when it is good luck for a dark-haired visitor to be the first person to enter your home after midnight, bearing symbolic gifts – whisky coal and shortbread – that aim to bring comfort and happiness in the year ahead.

With a soft, velvety mouthfeel, it excellently showcases The Macallan’s commitment to craftsmanship and uncompromised excellence.

Tickets for A Night on Earth, The Macallan Estate Experience are available to book now, priced at £350 per person. Please note that the experience is limited to a maximum of five guests per booking, and that this experience is only suitable for guests aged 18 and over.

For further details, and to book, please visit: https://www.themacallan.com/en/the-macallan-estate-festive-experience

For further information, visit www.themacallan.com

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.

ULF BUXRUD’S RARE MALTS  WHISKY COLLECTION
GOES TO AUCTION

Ulf Buxrud, renowned collector, connoisseur, author and leading educator in the whisky industry will exclusively offer his complete personal collection of Diageo’s ultra-collectible Rare Malts Selection, in a dedicated auction hosted by global market leaders Whisky Auctioneer. The Rare Malts Selection is one of the most highly regarded whisky collections  in the world and its provenance makes this an unmissable opportunity for whisky collectors around the world.

Buxrud has been at the forefront of the whisky world for over five decades and is perhaps best known in the industry for authoring his definitive book on the Rare Malts Selection in 2016, Rare Malts: Facts, Figures and Taste. The book provides a historical account of this legendary series of malt whiskies demonstrating Ulf as an expert authority on the collection.

The auction, running from 9 to 13 December, will feature over 100 expressions from the  acclaimed Rare Malts Selection, including complete verticals from legendary distilleries such as Port Ellen and Glenury Royal which are no longer producing liquid. It also features export editions which were bottled exclusively for the U.S. and South African markets.

Ulf Buxrud, said:

“It is a momentous occasion for me to see my complete Rare Malts collection come to auction. The series is one of the most iconic whisky series in the world and I am very fortunate to have tasted every expression. It was my admiration for these whiskies that set me onto a journey of research that led me to authoring my first whisky book.

“I am very excited to unveil my collection in partnership with Whisky Auctioneer allowing future whisky lovers and lost distillery enthusiasts across the globe the opportunity to get hold of these extremely rare bottles.”

Earlier this year Whisky Auctioneer achieved a record-price for a Rare Malts Selection bottle in their dedicated Brora Auction. The 1972 Rare Malt 22-year-old 60.02% sold for a hammer price £20,500, smashing the pre-auction estimate by over £8,000.

Joe Wilson, Head of Auction Content at Whisky Auctioneer said:

“Selling a private collection is always exciting for us, but handling the sale of one from such a prominent and respected name in the world of whisky is particularly special. Ulf’s book is the most comprehensive historical account of this legendary series so it’s truly a privilege for us to bring this to auction.

“Comprising over 100 expressions this is a rare opportunity for seasoned collectors looking for just one or two more bottles to complete a series, or equally for those just starting their collections.

“We are sure that the association and provenance of Ulf Buxrud’s name will entice connoisseurs from all over the world and I am in no doubt that any bottle from this dedicated auction would delight any whisky fan.”

In addition to authoring his book on the Rare Malts Selection, Buxrud authored Japanese Whisky, Facts, Figures and Taste. An important figure in the industry, he is one of the famous Malt Maniacs and also contributed to the very first issue of The Malt Whisky Yearbook.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Visit:  www.whiskyauctioneer.com

Instagram: whiskyauctioneer

Facebook: WhiskyAuctioneer

Twitter:  Whisky_auction

About the Rare Malts Selection

As interest in single malt continued to climb in the 1990s following the newly-formed United Distillers (now Diageo) first committed play in the single malt market with the introduction of the ‘Classic Malts of Scotland’, one product of this was the historic Rare Malts Selection. This was a series of older, rarer single malt releases from operational and lost distilleries that were released by Diageo from 1995 to 2005. The Rare Malts were predominantly from closed distilleries, each distilled in the 1960s – 1980s, aged for at least 18 years and bottled at cask strength. This powerful triptych combined with liquid scarcity set the world of whisky collecting alight.

About Whisky Auctioneer

Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at online auction. Founded in 2013 and located in Perth, 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 their passion and actively supporting their customers in their aims, whether consuming, collecting, or investing.

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. This showcases the move that whisky collectors, investors, and drinkers have already made online and firmly establishes 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. The business’ founder, Iain McClune, was listed as ‘One to Watch’ in The Telegraph’s Most Ambitious Business Leaders 2020 programme.

Background information on Ulf Buxrud

Ulf’s first contact with alcohol was at the European Club in the city of Abadan in Persia (now Iran), at the age of 15. It was the then famous blended whisky ‘Black & White’, which now is a bit hard to find. His infatuation was instant and intensive, and life lasting.

During a string of years his libation was the usual, traditional whisky blends, with an ice cube or a dash of soda water. Suddenly, around 1970, he found his salvation and his road. The saviour was The Macallan.

In the early 1980’s when overwhelmed with his burgeoning single malt collection, Buxrud began to utilise the techniques he had acquired in wine tasting and the descriptive lingo to systematically explore his accumulated stockpile.

By the end of the 1980s, Buxrud had developed a tasting scheme for guiding at first wine enthusiasts and close friends in Sweden, but then a large number of whisky enthusiasts. They all gained an understanding and knowledge of the world of whiskies under his pro bono tutorship. This activity was recognised and by that he received an invitation to join the illustrious ‘Keeper of the Quaich’, in 1995.

AN 18 YEAR OLD HIGHLAND MALT IS CROWNED WHISKY OF THE YEAR 2022 IN BLIND TASTING

Deanston 18 Year Old has triumphed in The Whisky Exchange’s annual tasting, taking the top spot in the only official blind whisky judging undertaken by members of the public. 

Deanston, a Highland distillery housed in an old cotton mill on the banks of the River Teith, claimed the crown in the 8^th annual Whisky of the Year blind tasting hosted by specialist spirits retailer The Whisky Exchange. Their 18-year-old expression is a delicious fruity, sweet single malt that has been matured in first-fill ex-bourbon casks, cranking the distillery’s distinctive honeyed, fruity character up to eleven.

This year’s shortlist included whiskies from the highlands and the islands, bold sherry bombs, creamy bourbon barrel single malts and a chocolatey Welsh whisky. After much deliberation whisky-loving consumers were encouraged to critique each whisky for nose, palate and finish, and select a first and second choice via a voting form.

All whiskies in the tasting were under £75 retail price, and all ongoing, commercially available releases. In addition to Deanston 18 Year Old, the shortlist featured:

Glen Moray 18 (runner up)

Oban 2006 Distillers Edition
Penderyn
Mortlach 16 Year Old
Old Pulteney 15 Year Old

Brendan McCarron, Master Distiller at Distell, said: “Deanston is not your typical distillery and Deanston 18 is not your average dram. Matured for 18 years in American white oak, ex-bourbon barrels, the end result is a dram that is smooth and aromatic, typical of our Deanston distillery style: soft, sweet, honeyed and uniquely waxy in flavour & mouthfeel. This is Deanston in a bottle. We are truly honoured to have impressed the blind taste panel, and titles don’t get much bigger than whisky of the year.”

Dawn Davies, head buyer at The Whisky Exchange, comments: “I am super excited to see Deanston win this year. It is a really underrated distillery that is producing some great tasting whisky at the moment.”

The Whisky Exchange ‘Of the Year’ winner is given a dedicated landing page on thewhiskyexchange.com for the year to showcase the producer and the bottling, while customers can watch out for special offers online and in-store ‘Of The Year’ tastings.

ABOUT THE WHISKY EXCHANGE

Founded in 1999, The Whisky Exchange is the leading global retailer of whiskies and fine spirits, with an award-winning online shop and three shops located in the heart of London at Covent Garden, Great Portland Street and London Bridge.

As a family company, The Whisky Exchange believes in excellent products at competitive prices and exceptional service. The company’s philosophy is simple – never rest on your laurels. The team, led by founders and brothers Sukhinder and Rajbir Singh and buyer Dawn Davies MW, is constantly trying to find new products with genuine heritage and quality in all drinks categories, while continuing to innovate and ensure its website and shop are the best in the business. Above all, the company is built on its amazing range and its people, and is responsible for the loyal and ever-expanding fan base from around the world.
The Whisky Exchange in numbers: 4,000 whiskies including 3,000 single malt Scotch whiskies; 500 Cognacs and Armagnacs; 600 rums; 300 gins; 200 bourbons; 150 Tequilas; three shops.

London Shops

2 Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9HH / Tel: 020 7100 0088
90-92 Great Portland Street, Fitzrovia, London W1W 7NT / Tel: 020 7100 9888
(New) 88 Borough High Street, London Bridge, London, SE1 1LL / Tel: 020 7631 3888

Online

TheWhiskyExchange.com Tel: 020 8838 9388

Double celebration as Glen Scotia named as Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year 

For a second time this year, Campbeltown-based Glen Scotia has been recognised for its whisky-making abilities after scooping yet another prestigious award.

The distiller has been named the Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards, an accolade it receives just seven months after being crowned as the ‘Best in Show’ at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) for its Glen Scotia 25-Year-Old expression.

The SFWSC received over 3,800 entries from around the world across 31 separate categories, with Glen Scotia 25 Year Old being awarded the overall winner of the competition, which makes Glen Scotia 25 Year Old The Best Whisky in The World in 2021.

It is the first time that one distillery has won both awards in the same year, demonstrating the increasing stature and visibility of the Campbeltown whisky producer.

Glen Scotia hails from Scotland’s smallest whisky-producing region. Once known as the

“Victorian Whisky Capital of the World,” in its heyday, the small coastal town was home to over 30 distilleries. Today, Glen Scotia is one of just three surviving distilleries but through a programme of continued investment and local effort, Glen Scotia is growing its presence in the UK and international markets, allowing the potential of Campbeltown to once again be realised.

Iain McAlister, Master Distiller and distillery manager at Glen Scotia, said: “For a long time Campbeltown was the forgotten whisky region, however, in recent years there has been a real resurgence in interest in the type of whisky we produce here.

“From the Victorian era until the present day, whisky has always been at the heart of this community. The techniques and craftsmanship that make our whisky so unique have been passed through generations, and I am thankful that we have managed to revive the whisky-making heritage of Campbeltown long after many of its distilleries fell away.

“Our distillery is small, but this allows us to focus on quality, and it is so humbling to once again be recognised for our craft.

“To win Best Whisky in the World for our Glen Scotia 25-Year-Old and to now achieve the status of Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year is beyond anything we imagined 2021 would bring. It has been a good year for Campbeltown whisky but we’re not stopping here. We are witnessing the town’s renaissance and it is truly wonderful.”

For more information, please visit www.glenscotia.com

About Glen Scotia:

• Independent distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832.
• Glen Scotia is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown.
• Glen Scotia 25-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch whisky was named ‘Best In Class’ and ‘Best In Show’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2021, with Glen Scotia 10-Year-Old collecting a Double Gold Medal, Glen Scotia 15-Year-Old a Gold Medal and Glen Scotia ‘Harbour Single Malt’ a Silver Medal.
• Glen Scotia 15-Year-Old was awarded a Gold at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2021
• Glen Scotia Double Cask was awarded a Silver at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2021 and Gold Medal at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2019.
• Glen Scotia 18 Year Old won Best Campbeltown Malt at the World Whisky Awards 2018.
• Images and interviews with key staff from Glen Scotia are available upon request.
• glenscotia.com
• Twitter: @GlenScotiaMalts
• Instagram: @glenscotiamalts
• Facebook: @GlenScotiaWhisky