Rare whisky makes a strong recovery and set for record year 

The rare whisky market for 2021 is set to break all previous records, following a strong first six months of the year, according to new figures published today by whisky analyst, broker and investment experts Rare Whisky 101.

The first half of 2021 has seen nearly 85,000 bottles of single malt Scotch whisky traded on the secondary market with a value of more than £36 million. Based on the current rate of growth, Rare Whisky 101 expects the full year for 2021 to reach 172,500 of bottles traded, an increase of 19.88% on 2019’s record (143,895 bottles) with a value of £75 million, an increase of 29.97% on 2019’s record (£57,707,707).

Rare whisky vs COVID-19

As with other physical asset classes, trading in the rare whisky market was subdued by a succession of lockdowns during 2020. The overall number of recorded bottles of single malt Scotch whisky sold at auction in the UK in 2020 decreased slightly by 3.37% to 139,044 (2019 = 143,895), while the recorded value decreased by 7.47% to £53,395,201 (2019 = £57,707,707).

However, the market experienced a classic V shaped recovery following the easing of the first lockdown in the UK. November and December 2020 were record breaking months from a volume perspective with both months seeing more than 16,000 bottles of single malt Scotch whisky sold at auction in the UK for the first time (previous record April 2019 = 15,830). Figures for May 2021 once again raised the bar with 16,858 sold.

The average per-bottle price declined by 2.55% from £401.04 in 2019 to £390.81 in 2020 and has quickly re-bounded to £426.58 at the 30^th June 2021 – a new record.

Broad investment values remain strong as Apex 1000 rises

After two years of relatively flat growth, Rare Whisky 101’s broadest measurement of the market, the Apex1000 Index, closed the half-year 2021 up 9.06% with a full-year estimate of 17.5% growth in investment values.

Springbank retained its #1 position from an investor’s perspective. However, The Macallan slipped 17 places to number 28.

Rare whisky vs alternative assets

Over an 18 month extended period, the Apex1000 Index fractionally edged ahead of gold by 0.03%, regaining its number one spot in Rare Whisky 101’s alternative asset rankings. Over an extended six and a half years, since the 31^st of December 2014, Scotch whisky’s leading performance is comfortably cemented, having achieved 225% growth compared to 50% growth for gold.

Whisky investment analyst and co-founder of Rare Whisky 101, Andy Simpson commented: 

“After an inevitable dip in volume supply following the double impact of Covid-19 and Brexit, the secondary market for rare whisky is, once again, set to smash all records. In our view, the pandemic has shown us that physical assets, such as whisky, have become ever more popular. When combined with a growing global consumer thirst for single malt which shows no signs of slowing, we see no reason why prices will not continue to rise for the right bottles.

“However, as is always the case, there are some watch-outs for collectors and investors. There are still some high value re-fills and fakes creeping into the market, so constant vigilance is required. We’re also seeing stress in the high value (>£5,000) segment of the market and have seen bottles selling recently for around 50% of their 2018/2019 high points.”

“For investors, we’ve seen plenty of movement up and down the rankings. The Macallan is an interesting case in point. The brand has further extended market share over the past year, but investment values have slipped. In part, we believe that the sheer volume of non age-stated releases may have confused the market, potentially leading collectors and investors to seek out other brands. However, it’s worth noting that the recent Macallan Red collection is a great example of where the brand works very well, leveraging the value of its aged stocks.”

“The data also provides some useful insights for collectors, as well as brand owners. From a price perspective, popularity is increasing in the more affordable sub-£1,000 segment. Yet this price-point isn’t particularly well served by brand owners who have been focused on releasing the ‘most expensive’ or ‘oldest’ to attract high net worth buyers. We sense a genuine uplift in the number of collectors who are prepared to pay premium prices but not £20,000+ for a 50 year old.”

For more information or to download the full report visit: https://www.rarewhisky101.com/intelligence

About Rare Whisky 101

Andy Simpson and David Robertson launched Rare Whisky 101 in 2014 with the aim of offering a whisky valuation service, brokerage and consultancy for whisky connoisseurs, collectors and investors. Having tracked every bottle sold at UK auctions over the past 14 years, the business now offers the world’s first, only and most comprehensive online single malt Scotch & Japanese whisky dataset covering some 830,000 price records and over 66,000 different bottle types. In the last 12 months, RW101 have brokered around 10,000 rare whisky bottles around the globe in addition to trading in almost 1000 aged casks from iconic distilleries such as The Macallan, Ardbeg, Dalmore, Bowmore, Springbank, Mortlach, Talisker, Caol Ila, Lagavulin and Highland Park.

George Remus Single Barrel selections arriving at retailers just in time for National Bourbon Heritage Month

2021 marks the second year the program has been offered to retailers, showcasing the signature high-rye bourbon style of MGP’s historic Lawrenceburg, Indiana distillery

St. LOUIS (Sept. 21, 2021) — Luxco announces George Remus Single Barrel selections are headed to participating retailers. The handpicked barrels of bourbon are arriving at retailers in September to celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month.

This year’s selections mark the second year of the George Remus Single Barrel program. In March retailers were invited to taste and select a barrel from two unique mash bills. This process was done virtually, with participating retailers connecting with distillers online and over the phone. Distilled at MGP’s historic distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, both mash bills reflect the brand’s high-rye bourbon character and are offered at cask strength. Retailers were able to customize the label on their 2021 single barrel selection to enhance the collectible aspect of this special offering.

“We are excited to bring our barrel program back for a second year, and we plan for it to be an annual tradition for many years to come,” said MGP Master Blender David Whitmer. “We take pride in choosing truly memorable bourbon barrels for the Remus barrel program, and we are confident this year’s selections are certain to be a favorite among bourbon fans of the George Remus brand.”

About George Remus® Bourbon

George Remus, a Bourbon brand named after the legendary “King of the Bootleggers,” is crafted at MGP’s historic Lawrenceburg, Indiana distillery. George Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a high-rye blend of Bourbon whiskies, aged over four years, with a hint of vanilla, a maple aroma, and a sweet-yet-characteristic rye flavor (SRP: $39.99/750-ml). Remus Repeal Reserve Series V is crafted from 2005, 2006 and 2008 reserve Bourbons and is available in limited quantities (SRP: $89.99/750-ml bottle). Connect with us: GeorgeRemus.com, @GeorgeRemusBourbon (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) and @GeorgeRemus (Twitter). G. Remus Distilling Co., Lawrenceburg, IN, 47% ALC/VOL & 50% ALC/VOL. Be Legendary. Sip Responsibly.

About Luxco

Founded in St. Louis in 1958 by the Lux Family, Luxco is a leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Merged with MGP Ingredients, Inc. in 2021 (Nasdaq: MGPI), Luxco operates as MGP’s Brands Division and manages all MGP/Luxco brands. This extensive and award-winning spirits portfolio includes well-known brands from five distilleries: Bardstown, Kentucky-based Lux Row Distillers, home of Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Daviess County; Lebanon, Kentucky-based Limestone Branch Distillery, maker of Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Minor Case Straight Rye Whiskey and Bowling & Burch Gin; Jalisco, Mexico-based Destiladora González Lux, producer of 100% agave tequilas, El Mayor, Exotico and Dos Primos; MGP’s historic distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where the George Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rossville Union Straight Rye Whiskey are produced; and the Washington, D.C.-based Green Hat Distillery, producer of the Green Hat family of gins. The innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com.

BUDDING INVESTORS URGED TO FOCUS ON FACTS AND FIGURES RATHER THAN HYPERBOLE AND MYTHS WHEN IT COMES TO RARE WHISKY BOTTLES

 With a relatively recent bottle of whisky seeing an unsustainable 5000% rise in value in just six years, whisky broker Mark Littler launches a guide to help new investors understand the market and its risks

With increased interest in rare whisky bottles as an investment and signs of an unsustainable ‘bubble’ developing around one of the most popular releases of recent times, a whisky broker has launched the first-ever comprehensive guide to help educate budding investors.

The 80-page Whisky Bottle Investment Guide has been created by prominent UK whisky broker Mark Littler to ‘cut through the hyperbole and bust some of the whisky investment myths’ that have developed around the rare whisky bottle market in recent years – a market which has seen bottles being sold for more than £1 million and a relatively recent bottle rising in value by almost 5,000% in just six years.

The first-of-its-kind Whisky Bottle Investment Guide introduces new investors to the fundamentals of the whisky market, its history, the basics of Indexes, where to find data for market analysis and how perceptions of whisky have changed.

It also explores in detail the crucial difference between vintage and modern bottles, with Littler highlighting how some rare modern bottles have seen an unsustainable ‘stratospheric change in value’. As part of research for a forthcoming Collectors And Investment Report that looks at specific whisky bottles, which is to be released next week, Littler reveals how one relatively recent bottle of The Macallan has risen in value by almost 5,000% in just six years, suggesting a bubble is developing around that sought-after release.

Whisky expert Blair Bowman, who has written about the risks of investing in whisky recently, has welcomed the guide as an ideal reference point for anyone considering buying bottles, describing it as ‘incredibly comprehensive’.

Some key insights from Littler’s Whisky Bottle Investment Guide include:

• Understanding the risk in investing in modern bottles and spotting ‘bubbles’ around certain sought-after bottles
• Knowing how to differentiate between different whisky indexes and find relevant data
• Learning how to beat the bots and bottle flippers to avoid overpaying for bottles 

The risk of making misguided investments 

Littler, who specialises in the valuation, sale and acquisition of rare whisky bottles and also casks, hit the headlines in 2020 when he helped 28-year-old Matthew Robson secure a deposit for a house following the sale of a collection of The Macallan for £44,000.

Commenting on the launch of the Whisky Bottle Investment Guide and his forthcoming Collectors And Investment Reports, he said: “While many people prefer of course to drink their whisky, there’s no doubt that the industry is making more products designed specifically to appeal to the collector and investor. This has led to bottles of rare whisky becoming one of the most popular and accessible luxury investments in recent years.

“During our research, we’ve seen stratospheric change in value around some modern releases that is unsustainable, with signs of a bubble developing around a bottle of The Macallan that has risen 5000% in value in just six years.

“The problem is that there has been very little in-depth and practical education around this topic despite how prevalent it is. At the same time, there has been a lot of hype around investing in rare whisky bottles and this, together with the lack of education, puts collectors and investors at risk of making misguided investments.

“It’s our belief that helping collectors and investors to understand every aspect of the industry and market is the best way that we can help them to make a decision. And so this guide was born. The Whisky Bottle Investment Guide provides investors, for the first time, with all of the essential must-know information they need to help them make a savvy investment in rare whisky bottles.

“Our forthcoming Collectors And Investment Reports will look at specific and prized rare bottles and what the historic returns have been for each whisky and the likelihood that the growth seen previously will continue.”

Whisky expert Blair Bowman, who has written recently about the risks around whisky investment, said: “Mark has created an incredibly comprehensive guide on investing in whisky bottles. It is ideal for someone looking to start building a collection or for someone who already has a large collection. Mark’s guide breaks down the key factors to consider when buying bottles and is an excellent reference for anyone looking to learn more about building a whisky collection.”

The Whisky Bottle Investment Guide is available to download for free here

• https://www.marklittler.com/from-still-to-status-symbol-whisky-investment-guide/
• Twitter @Mark_Littler

JUSTERINI & BROOKS CREATE A UNIQUE MASTERCLASS EXPERIENCE ‘THE ART OF COLLECTING RARE WHISKY’

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE WORLD OF RARE WHISKY WITH THE UNRIVALLED EXPERTISE
AND ACCESS OF JUSTERINI & BROOKS

21 September, LONDON: Justerini & Brooks has created the ultimate whisky masterclass, The Art of Collecting Rare Whisky, a three-part online guide that takes viewers on a journey of discovery to start their own rare whisky collection. Alongside three videos, the experience includes a Justerini & Brooks tasting kit featuring four samples of exquisite whiskies from Mortlach, Talisker, Johnnie Walker and ‘The Cally’, as well as a journal to record tasting notes. Providing unparalleled access to insights, guidance and tips, The Art of Collecting Rare Whisky opens for registration from today (21st September) and will be available to purchase at the end of October.

The Art of Collecting Rare Whisky invites collectors and enthusiasts to go on an exciting and personal journey of discovery into the world of Scotch whisky, bringing the passion and knowledge of industry experts directly to the viewer. Filmed in the heart of Scotland, the interactive experience hosted by Tod Bradbury, Head of Rare and Collectable Whiskies at Justerini & Brooks, provides viewers with unique insights and tips on the art of rare whiskies collection. From the carefully considered decisions that take place in the distillery to make these golden liquids to the stories behind some of the best know distilleries in Scotland. Viewers will learn how to start building a collection, what whiskies to search for and to taste, and how to look after their precious bottles.

Split into three chapters, in first chapter, viewers will be introduced to the world of rare whisky, learning how to start their own collection from the people at the heart of the industry: Dr. Craig Wilson: Master Blender, Joanne McKercher: Senior Archivist, Ewan Gunn: Global Scotch Brand Ambassador and Pierrick Guillaume: Distillery Manager at Lagavulin.

Chapter two uncovers the story of taste. Here is where you are invited to sample the whiskies in your tasting kit with Tod. Featuring drams from some of Scotland’s best-loved distilleries, both working and ‘ghost’ or closed, including: Talisker, Xpedition Oak, 43 Year Old; Mortlach, 26 Year Old; Johnnie Walker, Ghost and Rare, Glenury Royal and The Caledonian, ‘The Cally’, 40 Year Old. This chapter will deepen the viewers understanding of the spirit, learning how to identify subtle nuances in the whiskies, the notes and characteristics and the language used when describing tastes and flavours.

In Chapter three, viewers will be invited to begin crafting their own story. Providing advice on which whiskies are best suited to the viewers tastes and preferences, how to look after rare bottles and how to build a collection that is truly bespoke.

Included on the purchase of this masterclass, each participant will receive access to the three video chapters, a whisky tasting journal featuring tips, a tasting wheel guide and insights into rare whisky collecting to help individuals on their whisky journey. The offering also includes the Justerini & Brooks Tasting Kit complete with four 50ml samples of extraordinary whiskies from Talisker, Mortlach, Johnnie Walker, and The Cally, these are accompanied by a glass pipet and displayed in a Justerini & Brooks presentation box. Viewers can register from today via Justerini & Brooks’ website and will be the first to be notified once the experience is available to purchase in October.

Created by Justerini & Brooks, the fine wine and spirits merchant that has been supplying every successive British Monarch since King George III, The Art of Collecting Rare Whisky highlights Justerini & Brooks’ uniqueness as the destination for the rare whisky collector. Their access to some of the best Scotch whiskies in the world, knowledge and advice, as well as unrivalled storage services, gives collectors the opportunity to build their ideal whisky portfolio.

Register for “The Art of Collecting Rare Whisky” HERE  from 21st September to be the first to receive the Masterclass.

The full digital masterclass 3- part series including a Justerini & Brooks Tasting Kit and Smythson whisky journal will be priced at £500

About Justerini & Brooks

Justerini & Brooks was founded in 1749 and has been supplying every successive British Monarch since the coronation of King George III in 1761. Today, Justerini & Brooks continue to look after the needs of the discerning whisky collector and connoisseur across the globe. Priding themselves on their access, expertise and personal service, Justerini & Brooks’ time-honoured relationships to many of the world’s best distilleries opens the doors to those seeking rare and collectable gems, including whiskies from lost or ghost distilleries, such as Brora and Port Ellen, alongside limited-edition releases or exclusive single cask bottlings. Justerini & Brooks is the destination for the ultimate whisky collector.
www.justerinis.com

SPECIALITY BRANDS INTRODUCES THE CUVÉE, WATERFORD DISTILLERY’S FLAGSHIP SINGLE MALT WHISKY

Terroir-driven, Irish whisky producer Waterford Distillery has launched its flagship single malt, The Cuvée, which is distributed exclusively in the UK by premium agency Speciality Brands.

Inspired by Bordeaux’s greatest chateaux, Waterford Distillery has applied the same methodology to create the ultimate in whisky flavour complexity. To create The Cuvée, Head Distiller Ned Gahan layered together 25 individually distilled Single Farm Origins. Waterford’s library of individual whiskies presented him with an unprecedented spectrum of natural flavours defined by Ireland’s soils and microclimates. By layering such singular spirits together, each expressing its own identity, Waterford was able to create a dynamic assemblage and a genuine innovation for the category.

This has resulted in a whisky showing notes of red apples, breadcrust, green foliage, lavender, digestive biscuits, oranges, fresh mint, coffee cake, with a distinctly oily, textured palate delivering grapefruit, lemon zest, dark chocolate, cherries, granola and marmalade with an extraordinary length of flavour.

CEO Mark Reynier says: “Coming from a wine background I’ve always been intrigued by how the greatest Bordeaux wines were made. Rather than generically bundling up their grapes in to a single wine they went to the effort of making several individual wines instead, each expressing a terroir-derived personality of its own. Only after months of maturation are these component wines assembled to make a single profound wine of greater complexity, the Grand Vin. Why not with whisky? This is the vision seven years in the making, the essence of the Waterford project. 

“Single Farm Origin whiskies, each one defined by its own Irish-grown barley, each one distinctly different – all of them Waterford single malts – come together for the first time. Here the whole is even more than simply the sum of its parts: the result is our vision of how to create the most complex and profound single malt possible.”

The new whisky is bottled in Waterford’s iconic blue bottle is adorned by an eye-catching label designed exclusively by Leah Hewson, one of Ireland’s leading visual artists.

The Cuvée is bottled at 50% ABV with no chill-filtration and no colouring. The Cuvée will be available in on and off trade channels from this month’s onwards with a RRP £70.

For trade enquiries please contact the Speciality Brands sales team: sales@specialitybrands.com

About Speciality Brands:

Speciality Brands is a premium drinks agency representing some of the world’s finest spirits, including Nikka, Kavalan, Michter’s, Diplomático, Cocchi, Beluga, Black Tot rum and Tapatio. A dedicated team of well-respected drinks industry personalities including award-winning mixologists, top brand ambassadors, experienced account managers and marketing experts is led by Managing Director Chris Seale. The agency’s passion is delivering first class products, in-depth educational trainings and impeccable service levels to the premium on-trade and retail sectors. www.specialitybrands.com

MORRISON SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERS EXPAND THEIR

OLD PERTH RANGE TO INCLUDE TWO AGED EXPRESSIONS 

Old Perth Vintage 1996 is the first in a series of limited releases 

Thursday 16^th September 2021, Aberargie, Scotland – Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers, creators of Old Perth Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, have announced the release of two aged expressions. Once regarded as one of the best blends in existence by publicans and hoteliers, Old Perth had been largely forgotten until the Morrison family added it to their portfolio. Now under their guidance the range has expanded to include Old Perth 12 Year Old and Old Perth Vintage 1996, which is the first in a series of limited releases.   

Niel Hendriksz, Sales Director, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers said,  “We are proud that our Old Perth range of quality blended malt whisky has restored the tradition of blending in Perthshire, once synonymous with so many great whiskies. Our new 12 Year Old and Vintage Old Perth releases provide a new experience for whisky fans, showcasing the added depth and complexity that can be achieved when great single malts are blended to create something even more special.”

TASTING NOTES

Old Perth 12 Year Old 46% ABV

RRP: £45

Nose: Sherry-sweet stewed fruits and soft spices

Palate: Rich and complex with spicy orange marmalade and ginger

Finish: Layers of rich, warm fruits and lingering spices

Old Perth Vintage 55.8% ABV
RRP: £180

Nose: Dried fruits, soft spices and a hint of tobacco

Palate: Mouth-coatingly rich yet balanced, with layers of stewed fruits and smoke

Finish: Dark fruits lingering on the palate with a gentle smoky undertone

ABOUT OLD PERTH

Old Perth was a lost blend that was originally created by Peter Thomson, who began his career in the grocery, wine and spirits business in Perth in 1908, but soon established his own whisky blends. One of these was Old Perth, which quickly proved popular amongst Scottish publicans.

In the 1960s, those in the know held Old Perth whisky in high esteem because its high malt content (and inclusion of one of the world’s most prestigious sherried single malt whiskies). It was regarded as one of the best blends in existence.

Nearly half a century later, one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families, the Morrisons (formerly of Morrison Bowmore Distillers), purchased Old Perth and have brought the legacy back to life for all to enjoy. Old Perth is a range of Blended Malt Scotch Whisky which has restored tradition by blending in Perth and exclusively using sherry matured malt from a selection of Scotland’s finest distilleries, located in the Glenlivet region of Speyside.

To find out more about Old Perth visit www.oldperthwhisky.co.uk 

ABOUT MORRISON SCOTCH WHISKY DISTILLERS 

Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers is solely owned and operated by one of Scotland’s oldest and most prominent whisky families, Jamie and Brian Morrison. There has been over five generations of the Morrison family involved in the whisky business including grocers, brokers, blenders, bottlers and distillers, making them one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families.

Their heritage gives them access to a wide variety of unique and exceptional casks from pedigree distilleries across Scotland. Their family’s values are run through everything they do and they proudly showcase these underneath each of their bottles reiterating their commitment to Patience, Intuition and Integrity.

In every whisky they release, they are committed to continue to impart the knowledge that has been passed down from generations of family whisky makers.

To find out more about Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers visit www.morrisondistillers.com

BIG PEAT ANNOUNCES 2021 CHRISTMAS

LIMITED EDITION AT CASK STRENGTH

Douglas Laing & Co, leading distiller, blender and bottler, today unveil Big Peat Christmas, the annual special bottling within their Islay Malt Scotch Whisky brand.

Offered at natural cask strength of 52.8% alcohol and proudly without colouring or chill-filtration, this year’s festive release is said to be “packed with earthy, leathery, ashy charm, balanced by a wonderfully warming sweetness”.

The Limited Edition launch rounds off a big year for the cult Islay Malt, a year that has seen Big Peat take home a Gold Award at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Awards and the Master Medal at the Spirits Business Awards. These awards, the family say, are “testament to the quality offered by our carefully-crafted, high strength Blended Malt”.

Packaged in a lustrous icy-blue gift tube with gloss-varnished snowflakes, Big Peat’s Christmas gift tube carries bespoke illustration depicting the iconic bearded fisherman riding a sleigh on his island home of Islay. The candy-striped red and white bottle capsule that has become synonymous with the festive release completes the premium gifting Whisky.

Fred Laing, Chairman of his family’s firm, comments:

“Our family business is truly grateful and pleased to know that our Big Peat Christmas bottling has become something of an annual ritual for other Islay Whisky-loving families all over the world. It is so heartwarming to receive messages from keen consumers for whom opening that special bottle of Big Peat Christmas marks the beginning of the festivities with friends and family. At the figurative helm of our family sits Big Peat himself – and so, from our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas indeed.”

Big Peat Christmas 2021 will be available from September from specialist Scotch Whisky retailers in key markets globally, including Europe, North America and Asia.

SUPER LEAGUE PARTNERS WITH LOCH LOMOND GROUP

Super League is delighted to welcome The Loch Lomond Group, the company behind “The Best Whisky in the World”, as official spirit partner of the competition, a deal set to run until the end of the 2024 Betfred Super League season.

The Loch Lomond Group, a multi award-winning independent distiller and blender of some of the finest and rarest scotch whiskies, has a heritage amongst the oldest and most respected in the distilling industry.

Its portfolio also includes Loch Lomond Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Glen Scotia Whisky.

The brands first activation was at the Dacia Magic Weekend earlier this month and will be on show throughout the end-of-season run-in of Play-Offs and Grand Final.

Loch Lomond Group currently partner with several major sporting brands including with The Open, The Women’s British Open (golf), The United Rugby Championship (rugby union), The Scottish Premier Football League and Wigan Warriors.

As part of our partnership, The Loch Lomond Group will produce a range of limited-edition club branded products, which will see a percentage of the proceeds fed back into clubs as well as the charities of their choice.

The deal also includes naming rights to the “Spirit of Super League Award”, presented at the end of season Betfred Super League Awards event. The award, which is given to an individual who epitomises the values of Super League by going beyond their expected professional commitments and who places a strong emphasis on sportsmanship and community. Previous recipients of the Spirit of Super League award are Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Rob Burrow and Mose Masoe.

Super League chief commercial officer, Rhodri Jones said: “It’s fantastic to welcome The Loch Lomond Group to our family of partners in the Betfred Super League.

Loch Lomond Group’s recent experience of working with one of our clubs, Wigan Warriors, has shown them how well we, as a sport, work with partners within our game and we look forward to developing this relationship further over the coming months with the launch of bespoke club branded products.

“The presentation of the Spirit of Super League award is always one of the most poignant moments at the Super League Awards and we look forward to working with Loch Lomond Group to produce more memorable moments over the next three years.”

Loch Lomond Group, chief executive officer, Colin Matthews said: “We are truly excited to be partnering with Super League. Much like our other sports partnerships, this sponsorship will centre on contributing to the true spirit of the sport. We passionately believe that participation and interest in sport can make a real positive difference to individuals, groups and communities and so we are committed to leveraging our new association to support the wider rugby community.”

Watch Hill Proper bourbon bar

hires construction firm and creative director

Membership sales approach opening day capacity

PROSPECT, Ky. (September 14, 2021) – Watch Hill Proper, Louisville’s first premier bourbon club located in Norton Commons, is proud to announce it has chosen Louisville-based Buffalo Construction, Inc. for the construction of the 5,200 sq. ft. location anticipated to open in the first quarter of 2022. The Club has also hired Louisville native and whiskey expert Forrest Price as its Creative Director.

Both the Club’s layout and renderings were created by Design + Inc., an award-winning architectural and design firm that specializes in the restaurant industry. Buffalo Construction, Inc., a commercial construction partner, will bring The Fermenter (a waiting room with a smaller bar), the main bar, and two private rooms – a Member Lounge and a Library to life. The Member Lounge will be accessible to members during the day before official opening hours of the club. The Library will be a place for members to relax and expand their bourbon knowledge. The main bar will be in a large open room with over 1,000 bottles of bourbon behind the bar. A unique bourbon barrel ceiling feature will be a focal point of the club, with barrels located throughout the club. Construction is scheduled to begin in October.

As Creative Director, some of Forrest Price’s duties will include optimizing the flow behind the bar and serving the guests, assisting with bottle acquisition, interviewing and hiring staff, curating the wine list, creating curriculum for staff education, collaborating in the cocktail program, creating and organizing events, and guiding guests through the plethora of whiskey expressions.

“Of all the ways in which people drink spirits, none seem more pervasive than grain aged in wood, aka Whiskey,” says Price. “Being Whiskey Advisor at such a unique place as Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Washington, D.C. showed me firsthand that Kings from the Middle East, professional athletes, tourists from Peru, farmers from Idaho, the neighbor down the street, families from Nashville, and politicians from all over the world share a common interest – whiskey. This special brown liquid has spread its tentacles to nearly every corner of the planet and each place has put its own unique stamp on it. This is what draws me to be a steward of the spirit, and the hospitality industry in general. The nuances of each style are brilliant and tasty, and I love sharing their discrepancies.”

Watch Hill Proper began accepting membership applications through its website for all membership types back in May. Industry leaders affiliated with high quality brands including Four Gate, Beam Suntory, Brown-Forman, Heaven Hill, Angel’s Envy, Castle & Key, Bardstown Bourbon Company, New Riff, Four Roses, Limestone Branch and Peerless have already joined the club. Many authors and influencers have also joined, and more are being added daily. “We have received tremendous support from the entire bourbon industry,” says co-founder Josh Howes, “and we can’t wait to give our members exclusive intimate experiences with these brands through our club events.”

The current membership drive underway has a limited number of 300 memberships and about half have been accepted to date. Once memberships reach the cap of 300 members, applicants will be placed on a membership waiting list. More memberships may be released at a future date, but the initial cap of 300 ensures a premier member experience. Memberships are not required to visit the club as it will be open to the public. However, members will have reservation privileges, receive a discount on drinks, have access to purchase the club barrel picks, and can attend special member-only events amongst more than a dozen additional privileges.

Watch Hill Proper plans to deliver a large and rare selection of bourbon and create a unique whiskey cocktail program. Light fare food and wine will also be served. For more information or for membership details, please visit the Watch Hill Proper website at www.watchhillproper.com or contact Bev Reese at (502) 230-1982.

About Watch Hill Proper:

Watch Hill Proper is Louisville’s first premier membership bourbon club anticipated to open early in 2022. Our purpose is to be a community built around a common interest – bourbon. Our goal is to be a community of ambassadors for Kentucky’s signature industry and do it in style. For more information about Watch Hill Proper, or to apply for membership, visit www.watchhillproper.com.

About Buffalo Construction:

Buffalo Construction, Inc. is driven by the pursuit of Building Better! As a Solutions Partner, Buffalo Construction, Inc. fosters a collaborative environment of exploration, innovation, and execution. Headquartered in Louisville, KY Buffalo Construction, Inc. has a presence in 49 states with expertise in a variety of markets, including restaurant, hospitality, fuel, retail and multi-family. Whether starting from a seed of an idea or developing a current investment, the Buffalo Construction, Inc. team and their portfolio of services has the capabilities to bring any project to life from design through development, construction and operations. Building Better! delivers on one overriding promise: to do the right thing every time, no matter what. For more information, visit www.buffaloconstruction.com.

About Forrest Price:

Forrest Price, a Louisville, KY native, is a former Whiskey Advisor for Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Washington, D.C., the current standard-bearer for whiskey establishments the world over. A contributor to writing publications, curator of private collections, organizer of charity barrel picks, and the creator of a Dewey Decimal-like system for whiskey, he also teaches private whiskey classes, works with spirits brands, and has consulted for famous establishments such as the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado.

#Glenmorangie 

Whisky’s fragrant bouquet celebrated in wondrously floral limited-edition

— Azuma Makoto reimagines Glenmorangie 18 Years Old through language of flowers —

Dancing with jasmine, geranium and narcissus, Glenmorangie 18 Years Old’s fragrant bouquet has inspired a unique collaboration with botanical sculptor Azuma Makoto. Comparing the rare Highland single malt Scotch whisky’s luscious, floral notes to a flower in bloom, Azuma Makoto celebrates its unfolding radiance in a stunning limited-edition design, showcasing his masterpiece Dancing Flowers of Glenmorangie, premiering at Chelsea’s Saatchi Gallery’s upcoming Late openings, from 6-9pm, on Thursdays September 23 and 30. This moving sculpture, featuring almost 100 different blooms, reimagines the whisky through the language of flowers.

When he first tasted Glenmorangie 18 Years Old, Azuma Makoto was struck by how the whisky’s floral notes danced on the tongue. Delighting in its notes of honeysuckle, sweet pea, jasmine and geranium entwined with dried fruits and honey, he decided to translate the single malt’s flavours into flowers. First sketching his ideas, Azuma Makoto then created a floral artwork in his studio, in Tokyo, Japan. Comprising almost 100 blooms, it includes those he scented in the whisky, Scottish blooms and flowers from the many countries where Glenmorangie is enjoyed. Azuma Makoto then drifted petals, confetti-like, over the work as it was photographed and filmed. His sculpture, Dancing Flowers of Glenmorangie, is showcased on the whisky’s giftbox and labels.

The presentation of Azuma Makoto’s sculpture at the ‘Whisky in Full Bloom‘ Bar at Saatchi Gallery follows the partnership with the leading contemporary art platform and the support of its upcoming major exhibition RHS Botanical Art & Photography Show 2021 opening September 18 – October 3, 2021. Glenmorangie 18 Years Old is one of Glenmorangie’s most delicious single malts, enjoyed by whisky lovers old and new. Dreamed up by its endlessly imaginative whisky creators, Glenmorangie 18 Years Old begins with their delicate, fruity spirit, crafted in stills as tall as a giraffe to allow more space for taste and aroma. Next they age this spirit in bourbon casks for 15 years, then transfer a portion into Oloroso sherry casks for three more years. After 18 years, these casks are reunited to create the single malt whisky’s dazzling, luminous tastes.

Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s Director of Whisky Creation, said: “Azuma Makoto’s stunning work deliciously translates the sweet, floral lushness of Glenmorangie 18 Years Old. A mere glimpse of his limited-edition design brings to mind the whisky’s scents of geranium, tuberose and jasmine, and tastes of honeysuckle and sweet pea, figs and nuts. Since it looks as wonderful as it tastes, this limited edition is sure to delight whisky lovers old and new.”

Azuma Makoto said: “When I first tasted Glenmorangie 18 Years Old, each sip of the whisky unfurled as if it was a flower in bloom. I could taste so many blossoms dancing on my tongue, that I was inspired to reimagine the whisky in Dancing Flowers of Glenmorangie. I hope that through this limited-edition design, my work brings as much joy as the delicious tastes which inspired it.”

Glenmorangie 18 Years Old’s limited edition Azuma Makoto design will be available from 1st November at Clos19.com, whisky specialists and Amazon. Register your interest now on Clos19.com, RRP: £100.

Whisky lovers are invited to try the limited-edition Glenmorangie 18 Years Old at the Azuma ‘Whisky in Full Bloom’ Bar at Saatchi Gallery during the upcoming Saatchi Lates on September 23^rd and September 30^th from 6PM-9PM. Tickets are available on www.saatchigallery.com/tickets 

Glenmorangie is proud to support this year’s RHS Botanical Art & Photography Show in partnership with Saatchi Gallery, running from mid-September until 3rd October 2021.

https://www.glenmorangie.com/

Saatchi Gallery

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Tasting Notes:

Glenmorangie 18 Years Old is bottled at 43% ABV

Colour: Deep gold. Rich and full.

Nose: Rich, rounded and sweet with dried fruits and a complex floral fragrance. Initially, the aroma has nutty, caramel and vanilla overtones followed by hints of walnuts, honeycomb and dates. Complex floral notes emerge with geranium, jasmine and narcissus. With water, deep oak notes are released, revealing a balsamic character, softened by vanilla. The hallmark Glenmorangie fruity complexity emerges as rich apricots and dates, interwoven with hazelnuts.

Taste: The mouthfeel is silky, smooth and rounded with a full flavour. The taste is beautifully balanced between the flavours of honey, malt and flowery scents, followed by Oloroso nuttiness such as hazelnuts and walnuts. Dates and figs emerge in the background with a hint of wood smoke.

Finish: The finish is long and enticing, with the sweetness of dried fruit and subtle dryness of Oloroso nuttiness.

RRP: £100

Available at: Clos19.com, whisky specialists and Amazon.

Awards: Glenmorangie 18 Years Old has recently been awarded a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021, and a Gold Award at the International Spirits Challenge 2021.

About Glenmorangie:

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

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

About Dr Bill Lumsden:

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

About Azuma Makoto

Azuma Makoto began his floral art after setting up a haute-couture flower shop in 2002. A few years later, he began to explore the world of botanical sculpture – and soon his work began attracting attention from around the world. Starting with a solo exhibition in New York, he has exhibited experimental works in Paris and Dusseldorf, and in 2009 he launched the experimental plant group Toshin, Flower Tree Research Institute (AMKK) in Milan, Belgium and Shanghai. In recent years, he has been pursuing projects that take flowers to locations impossible in the natural world. For instance, he has plunged floral art more than 1,000m deep below the sea and launched it high into the atmosphere. 

About Saatchi Gallery

Since 1985, Saatchi Gallery has provided an innovative platform for contemporary art. Exhibitions have presented works by largely unseen young artists, or by international artists whose work has been rarely or never exhibited in the UK. This approach has made the Gallery one of the most recognised names in contemporary art. Since moving to its current 70,000 square feet space in the Duke of York’s Headquarters in Chelsea, London, the Gallery has welcomed over 10 million visitors. The Gallery hosts over 5,000 schools visits annually and has over 6 million followers on social media. In 2019 Saatchi Gallery became a charity, beginning a new chapter in its history. www.saatchigallery.com

About the collaboration:

Glenmorangie’s partnership with Azuma Makoto began after the Japanese botanical sculptor tasted Glenmorangie 18 Years Old with Dr Bill Lumsden and discovered its wondrously floral palate. Inspired to create an artwork from his perception of the whisky, he drew on the whisky’s floral notes, and conducted his own research into flowers native to Scotland, bringing them together with blooms from parts of the world where Glenmorangie is enjoyed. Once Azuma Makoto had created his botanical artwork, he allowed petals to drift over it while it was photographed and filmed, creating the moving sculpture Dancing Flowers of Glenmorangie. The work reflects his delight in finding that the whisky’s floral notes dance on the tongue. The finished work is showcased on the gift box and labels of this limited-edition bottle. A print of the work is included within the gift box.

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.