BRUICHLADDICH UNVEILS SCOTLAND’S FIRST BIODYNAMIC WHISKY

Distilled in 2011 and matured for 10 years in first fill ex-bourbon cask, this pioneering spirit is the latest expression to push the boundaries of sustainable whisky

November 16, 2021 –The team at Bruichladdich Distillery pride themselves on their barley obsession and have done so since the distillery doors reopened in 2001. Inspired by the world of wine and the belief that terroir can exist in whisky, that obsession has led to the release of some of Scotland’s most innovative malts.

Today, the latest chapter in the Hebridean distillery’s story is released and aptly named The Biodynamic Project. The first-ever biodynamic Scotch whisky to be released, this unpeated spirit was distilled in 2011 from a single farm and matured for a decade on the island of Islay. This expression has been bottled straight from the sample room of head distiller, Adam Hannett, under the Bruichladdich Distillery ‘Projects’ moniker.

This biodynamic barley has been grown outside of Scotland, at Yatesbury House Farm, near Wiltshire in England, which is uniquefor the distillery. All Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte and Octomore single malts are distilled with 100% Scottish barley, so this biodynamic is the exception to their rule.1

Like organic farming, biodynamic methods don’t use chemical pesticides or chemical fertilisers. The method also enlivens the soil through biodynamic preparations and strengthens plants to guard against disease. Many wine growers in France apply biodynamic principles to nurture the soil in the belief that they improve the quality of the raw ingredient, resulting in a superior flavour.

Not only is this whisky exceptional to drink, a recent carbon audit completed at Yatesbury House Farm by farmer Dr Richard Gantlett found that 10x more carbon was sequestered there than was emitted. Supporting crops from this carbon positive farm is proof that the whisky industry can work directly with growers to put the planet at the heart of making exceptional food and drink. It is a fundamental first step towards supporting more regenerative agricultural systems and playing a part in climate change solutions.

“When we started distilling our Organic, Islay-grown and Bere barley expressions, it was driven by the curiosity to seek new and diverse flavours in Scotch whisky”, explains Bruichladdich’s head distiller Adam Hannett. “We approached Richard and asked him to certify biodynamically with that same flavour mission in mind. Many years on, we are delighted to know the positive impact these grains have on the environment. They have been crucial to us further examining what crops we purchase and how they play a part in supporting regenerative agriculture.”“

The flavour of the biodynamic, from when it was first distilled through to maturation is superb. There is a wonderful elevation of the fruity character of Bruichladdich with the Biodynamic malt. Apple and pear notes on the spirit are intensified and with a little water the floral notes burst through, with lots of lilac, honeysuckle and rose. Texturally there is an extra depth which carries the flavours beautifully.”

Bruichladdich Distillery’s The Biodynamic Project will be available exclusively from www.bruichladdich.com.A total of 5,000 bottles will be released at an RSP of £100 from the 16thNovember 2021. As with all of the distillery’s single malts, it is bottled unchill-filtered and colouring free inside the distillery gates on Islay. For further information or to request samples, please contact Praytell at bruichladdich@praytellagency.com.

Bruichladdich Distillery:

•Bruichladdich Distillery is located on the remote Scottish island of Islay and was built in 1881

•Bruichladdich Distillery crafts four different spirits:

•Bruichladdich, unpeated Islay single malt Scotch whiskyoPort Charlotte, heavily peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky (40PPM)

•Octomore, the world’s most heavily peated Scotch whisky series (80+PPM)

Bruichladdich Distillery matures and bottles all their single malts on the island of Islay. They are due to install on-site maltings in the near future, which will enable them to complete a proportion of their annual production on the island.

Bruichladdich Distillery is the largest private employer on the island of Islay

The Biodynamic Project:

The Biodynamic Project is the world’s first biodynamically grown Scotch whisky to be released

•The liquid profile is as follows:

•Barley Variety: Westminster

•Harvested in 2010 by Richard Gantlett at Yatesbury House Farm, Wiltshire

•Malted: By Bairds in Inversness at 0ppm, it is unpeated

•Distilled: Slowly using the original Victorian machined at Bruichladdich Distillery in 2011

•Matured: In first fill ex-bourbon casks for 10 aged yearsoBottled: On Islay using Islay spring water, it is unchill-filtered, colouring free and 50% abv.

•Bottled under the ‘Projects’moniker, The Biodynamic Project is the second small-batch experiment to be released straight from Adam’s sample room. The first was a recipe combining Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte and Octomore single malts, named The Ternary Project.

•The Project releases are available via www.bruichladdich.comonly

Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund Announces 2021 Grant Recipients

Veteran Community Action Grants awards $75,000 to nonprofits that serve the veteran community

As an American-made and owned Bourbon, Evan Williams is proud to support U.S. military veterans through the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund. First established in 2020, the fund continues the brand’s support of veteran communities since launching the Evan Williams American-Made Heroes program and limited-edition label in 2015. To date, Evan Williams has recognized 42 veteran heroes on its American Hero Edition bottles and donated more than $450,000 to nonprofits.BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Evan Williams Bourbon announced today 15 recipients of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants. The 2021 Veteran Community Action Grants awarded $75,000 across projects that make a meaningful difference in the enjoyment and quality of life for veterans. From training service dogs to professional development and therapy, each program supports giving back to those who served.

“The 2021 recipients of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grants are an inspiring, diverse group whose extraordinary programs continue to uplift our veteran communities,” said Julie Cole, Evan Williams Senior Brand Manager. “We are proud to continue the brand’s efforts to celebrate and support veterans who protect the American spirit of service.”

The 15 recipients of the 2021 Veteran Community Action Grants awarded by the Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund are as follows:

MISSION WORKING DOGS: Studies show that service dogs can provide life-saving therapy and assistance for veterans with PTSD and mobility challenges, which were especially felt during the pandemic. In response, Mission Working Dogs was founded to train and provide service animals for veterans in need. Every dog must pass extensive health and temperament checks and undergo a minimum of 250 training hours before they can graduate to saving lives. Learn more about Mission Working Dogs at www.missionworkingdogs.org.

OPERATION WELCOME HOME: Some veterans have difficulty navigating the civilian workforce once they’re out of the military. Operation Welcome Home enlists large and small businesses to provide opportunities to veterans for professional development, as well as career placement. Since May 2012, Operation Welcome Home has successfully arranged full-time employment for more than 600 veterans, with a 92% success rate. Learn more about Operation Welcome Home at welcomehomewv.com.

WARRIOR EXPEDITIONS: Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging. Warrior Expeditions programs use the great outdoors to give veterans better lifelong coping strategies for mental and physical challenges resulting from their military service. This year, Warrior Expeditions provided more than 240 veterans with free, life-changing therapy. Learn more about Warrior Expeditions at warriorexpeditions.org.

ABOUTFACE-USA: AboutFace‐USA® is a peer-led community organization existing, as an initial point of contact, to empower and encourage veterans and their families to find help. Working to get past the stigma of PTSD and confront mental health concerns, these programs provide support services, activities and resources geared toward understanding mental health so that they can cope better, improve their relationships, and change the direction of their future for the better. Learn more about AboutFace-USA at www.aboutface-usa.org.

DTOM 22/0: The mission of the DTOM 22/0 Foundation and Veterans Ranch is to provide a safe place for healing and recovery for military service members, veterans, and their families. These programs also engage and positively impact veteran lives through hope, self-conviction, and family activities, while helping them learn to live again with purpose. DTOM also aims to end suicide among veterans through mentorship, support, and building stronger families. Learn more about DTOM 22/0 at dtom220.org.

BATTLEBETTY FOUNDATION: BattleBetty Foundation is a community-based nonprofit and first Women Veteran focused organization within South Carolina committed to empowering Women Veterans as they navigate post-transition life. The BattleBetty Resource Center provides an emergency shelter, clothes closet, empowerment workshops, and fosters community reintegration for women veterans. Learn more about the BattleBetty Foundation at battlebettyfoundation.com.

SHAMROCK REINS: Shamrock Reins and its special horses foster positive life-changing experiences for veterans, their families, and the families of fallen heroes by assisting with recovery and by offering comfort and kindness in a safe environment. Learn more about Shamrock Reins at shamrockreins.org.

HEALING PAWS FOR WARRIORS: A resilient program that represents veterans helping veterans from personal experience and trained service dogs, Healing Paws for Warriors’ program focus is save a veteran and rescue a dog. The program provides service training for local rescue dogs by partnering with veterans faced with PTSD, TBI, or MST at no cost. By increasing self and family health and wellness, Healing Paws gives hope and healing to veterans and reduces number of canines in shelters. Learn more about Healing Paws for Warriors at www.healingpawsforwarriors.org.

SERVE OUR WILLING WARRIORS: The average hospital stay for recovering warriors is about 300 days. Serve Our Willing Warriors provides cost-free retreat stays and programs that positively impact wounded, ill, and injured service members, disabled veterans, and their families. Learn more about Serve Our Willing Warriors at www.willingwarriors.org.

WHITEHAVEN CANINE: WhiteHaven Canine rescues dogs from local shelters or donated from individuals and trains them as Emotional Support Animals. Highly skilled in obedience and service, these canines are then given to veterans at no cost. Learn more about WhiteHaven Canine at whitehavencanine.org.

HELP OUR MILITARY HEROES: Help Our Military Heroes provides fully equipped, adaptive minivans to severely wounded, injured, and ill service members who sustained their injuries while on active duty. The customized vans return mobility and independence, as well as transportation that would otherwise be financially devastating for many. Learn more about Help Our Military Heroes at www.helpourmilitaryheroes.org.

VETS CHAT AND CHEW: The Vets Chat & Chew Program provides a simple guide to better health and a supportive community. The program is a science based nutritional education featuring live healthy recipe demonstrations to help veterans feel mentally and physically better. Learn more about Vets Chat and Chew at vetschatandchew.com.

SAVE Farm: The Servicemember Agricultural Vocation Education, Corp. (SAVE) is a transition program for veterans through a pathway to farming and wellness. SAVE trains veterans for an agricultural career and incorporates a holistic approach for veterans healing from stress, physical injuries and issues that might be influencing the mind, body and soul. Learn more about SAVE farm at www.thesavefarm.org.

AURA HOME WOMEN VETS: Aura Home helps women veterans from all services with housing, counseling, financial guidance across Western North Carolina. By providing self-education opportunities, Aura Home houses homeless veteran women by giving them access to affordable housing, jobs, therapy, and more. Learn more about Aura Home Women Vets at www.aurahomewomenvets.com.

SALINA INNOVATION: The historic Salina Masonic Temple building has offered veterans a room at no cost for a community resource center. This space has grown to include weekly coffees for veterans, support groups, information sessions, town hall meetings, regional chapter meetings, information services, and assistance with benefits. Learn more about Salina Innovation at salinainnovation.com.

As the second-largest selling Bourbon in the world, Evan Williams is proud of its American heritage and honored to broaden its support of veteran communities across the country. The 2022 American-Made Heroes will be selected from affiliate organizations who applied through the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund grant process. The 2022 American-Made Heroes class will be announced in early May along with the individualized limited-edition bottles. To learn more about the Evan Williams American-Made Heroes Program, please visit american-madeheroes.com.

ABOUT EVAN WILLIAMS: The flagship Bourbon of Heaven Hill Distillery, Evan Williams is among the leaders in the rapidly growing American Whiskey segment as the world’s second largest-selling Bourbon. Evan Williams is a proud sponsor of Major League Baseball and the World Series, first forming a partnership with the national pastime in 2016. As an American-made and American-owned brand, Evan Williams has recognized true American heroes through their exceptional stories of honor and bravery on special edition American-Made Hero labels for the past seven years, now supported by the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (www.EvanWilliamsBourbonExperience.com) celebrates the legacy of Evan Williams through an immersive visitor’s center experience which brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky’s native spirit as an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN-MADE HEROES FOUNDATION FUND: Evan Williams is honored to broaden its support of veteran communities across the country through the launch of the American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund, announced in April 2020. The American-Made Heroes Foundation Fund was established to show Evan Williams’ pride in being American-made and owned, and to give back to those who served. Our purpose is: to provide a platform for sharing inspiring veteran stories; to raise public awareness for causes impacting the veteran community; and to support nonprofit organizations that help veterans through a specialized grant program.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

IRISH DISTILLERS REINFORCES SUSTAINABILITY CREDENTIALS WITH NEW CHAPTER IN THE MIDLETON VERY RARE DAIR GHAELACH STORY

 Kylebeg Wood Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 

Irish Distillers, makers of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, is proud to introduce the fourth release in the Midleton Very Rare Dair Ghaelach collection, a remarkable addition that can arguably boast the series’ most significant support of the conservation of oak woodlands yet, as well as adding another important chapter for the pinnacle of Irish whiskey.

For the fourth instalment of the Dair Ghaelach series, which translates simply as ‘Irish oak’, Midleton’s Masters worked with the guardians of Kylebeg Wood on the Ballykilcavan Estate near Stradbally, Co. Laois, to carefully select the seven trees that would be used to create the finest virgin Irish oak hogsheads in which to mature some of their most exquisite whiskeys.

Further reinforcing Midleton’s provenance and standing as a true taste of Ireland, the result is a liquid imbued with the unique fingerprint of Kylebeg Wood and a spellbinding new take on the Dair Ghaelach series.

“With each bottling traceable to a single tree, Midleton Very Rare Kylebeg Wood offers a range of seven whiskeys bottled at cask strengths ranging from 55.4%-56.1% ABV, all with the hallmark inspiration of fragrant woodland spices and a heightened intensity of rich wood tannins that allow the influence of the Irish oak to linger on the palate until the very end,” explains Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman.

“Irish Distillers’ partnership with Kylebeg Wood is the ultimate example of how we are collaborating with Ireland’s forestry custodians to marry sustainable Irish oak with the highest standards in forestry practice and conservation, with some of the finest craftsmanship to be found anywhere in the world of whiskey,” explains O’Gorman, who has been at the forefront of the Dair Ghaelach programme since its inception more than a decade ago.

“Once harvested from Kylebeg Wood, the resulting oak logs were separately packed and shipped to the Spanish region of Galicia and the Maderbar Sawmills in Barralla where, for more than fifty years, the same family has been working with wood. Here the oak was cut, using the time-honoured craft of quarter sawing before the resulting stave wood made the ten-hour journey from the sawmills to the Antonio Paez Lobato cooperage in Jerez, where they were laid out to dry naturally in the warmth of the Spanish sun.

“It took fifteen more months before these oak staves were ready to create 42 of the most special casks to be found anywhere in the world, each was then given a light toast to my own specifications before returning from Spain to be filled with a specially selected range of our finest Single Pot Still whiskeys, previously matured in American oak barrels for between thirteen to twenty-five years.”

Nosed and tasted every month for a further fifteen months, O’Gorman, Master Blender Billy Leighton, and Blender David McCabe kept a vigilant watch on the barrels before the resulting liquid was deemed to have struck a perfect balance with Midleton’s hallmark Single Pot Still character.

“The first Single Pot Still Irish whiskey to be matured in Irish oak from County Laois, Midleton Very Rare Kylebeg Wood is as individual as it is irresistible,” adds O’Gorman, “and a whiskey that is as satisfyingly Irish as it is undeniably elegant.”

Part of a carefully curated felling programme, the space created through the felling of the trees used to create Midleton Very Rare Kylebeg Wood hogsheads has allowed light to once again meet the forest floor.  Now a new generation of saplings, planted following the felling, rise to take their place in the canopy above. This method of forest management, that is practiced in Kylebeg Wood has contributed to the reappearance of the pine marten to the Laois countryside. This in turn has impacted the alien grey squirrel and helped the native red squirrel, which had practically vanished from the local area.

“Situated amidst rolling fields of barley, the native Irish woodland on the Ballykilcavan Estate has been managed carefully and in tune with nature by the Walsh-Kemmis family for thirteen generations since 1639,” explains Paddy Purser, forest manager and consultant, who worked closely with the Midleton team on the project.

“Kylebeg Wood – or ‘An Choill Bheag’ in the Irish language – translates as ‘the little wood’, and it was in this little wood that native Irish oak was planted in 1820 to replace trees that were felled for shipbuilding during the Napoleonic Wars.

“Today, through an Irish Distillers sponsored monitoring system we use a ‘close to nature’ forest management system in line with international best practice (as assessed using the AFI Protocol*) ensuring sustainable management of our majestic Irish oak.”

Midleton Very Rare Dair Ghaelach Kylebeg Wood is available globally at 12pm Irish time from 19^th November 2021, RRP: €310 per 70cl.

To purchase a bottle please visit https://www.midletonveryrare.com/en?page_id=2203

Please click HERE to viewDair Ghaelach Kylebeg Wood video .

NOTES 

Midleton Very Rare Dair Ghaelach Kylebeg Wood Tasting Notes

Nose: Fragrant woodland spices with notes of cinnamon and nutmeg to the fore accompanied by aromatic oils and dried, earthy undertones. The classic pot still spices build over time working in tandem with delicate hints of nectarine to create a zesty fruit note with light dustings of white pepper. Additional aromas of dairy fudge and vanilla with a rich nutty character further accentuate the sweet and savoury nature of this wonderfully complex whiskey.

Taste: Fortified by the Irish Oak, the pot still spices lead with a heightened intensity thanks to the rich wood tannins before subsiding to reveal velvety tones of caramel with sweet stewed apple and touches of orange peel. Dark chocolate with subtle notes of honeycomb and vanilla weave amongst the spices, fruits and oak adding further complexity and intrigue.

Finish: Delightfully long finish with the fruits and spices slowly fading, allowing the Irish Oak to linger until the very end. 

About Irish Distillers and AFI*

Committed to giving back to nature and nurturing a sustainable environment for Kylebeg Wood, Irish Distillers has supported an internationally recognised protocol for monitoring forest growth and management called the AFI* protocol.  Kylebeg Wood is one of over 100 forests across western Europe that are similarly monitored.  Under this protocol, the forest is assessed every five years in terms of its sustainability, productivity and ecology.  The objective is to learn about how the forest develops over time and responds to different management interventions.  It is intended that this will be used as a demonstration and measurement of best oak forest management practice in Ireland and is also an investment in the long-term development and production of coopering grade oak in Ireland.

*AFI stands for Association Futaie Irrégulière which means Association of Irregular Forestry 

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines, and producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys. Led by Jameson, our brands are driving the global renaissance of Irish whiskey. Jameson is the world’s bestselling Irish whiskey, experiencing 30 years of consecutive growth up to 2019 and hitting sales of 8.6m cases in 2021. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. Since 2012, we have invested over €400 million to double our production and bottling capacity to meet global demand for our products.

We employ over 600 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin.

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirits with consolidated sales of €8,824 million in FY21. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has developed through organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard, which owns 16 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive brand portfolios in the industry, including: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard’s brands are distributed across 160+ markets and by its own salesforce in 73 markets. The Group’s decentralised organisation empowers its 19,000 employees to be true on-the-ground ambassadors of its vision of “Créateurs de Convivialité.” As reaffirmed by the Group’s strategic plan, “Transform and Accelerate,” deployed in 2018, Pernod Ricard’s strategy focuses on investing in long-term, profitable growth for all stakeholders. The Group remains true to its three founding values: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust, and a strong sense of ethics, as illustrated by the 2030 Sustainability and Responsibility roadmap supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “Good times from a good place.” In recognition of Pernod Ricard’s strong commitment to sustainable development and responsible consumption, it has received a Gold rating from Ecovadis. Pernod Ricard is also a United Nation’s Global Compact LEAD company.

Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN Code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 and Eurostoxx 50 indices.

BENROMACH LAUNCHES ‘FIRSTHAND’ WITH LIMITED-EDITION HIP FLASK COLLABORATION 

“Firsthand” is the new campaign from Benromach which celebrates the benefits and craft of hand-made products. To mark this, a new series of curated partnerships with artisan producers will be created to explore the quality and artistry of the handmade.

As a whisky that’s made by hand for genuine character, Benromach is celebrating the skills of makers worldwide who share the same ethos and commitment to making high quality products using time honoured methods.

After working together for many months on the detail and design, today Benromach releases its first collaboration in the Firsthand series by partnering with Yorkshire-based leather workers, specialising in custom hip flasks, HÔRD.

Benromach x HÔRD launches today with 80 hipflasks (£50) available to purchase from benromach.com/flask. Handmade by Gemma Gilleard and Jason Booth, founders of HÔRD, each hip flask uses old leather that would otherwise head to landfill, with all cladding, dyeing and detail added by hand.

Jason Booth, founder of HÔRD, said: “We produce by hand to create beautiful products that can be passed down through generations. Making our hip flasks by hand allows us to guarantee the quality, care and attention that goes into everything we produce and we’re incredibly proud of what we do here. The limited edition hip flask we’ve created for Benromach is a perfect example of our work and we’re thrilled with the end result.”

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, said: “Our small team of distillers rely entirely on their expertise and senses to make the finest handmade whisky, matured exclusively in first-fill casks – it’s what we do and who we are. Made by hand for genuine character is how we started, and this is how we will continue the Benromach story. There may be a more efficient way of doing it, but here at Benromach we celebrate the rewards of all things handmade. The collaboration with HÔRD has produced something we are all incredibly proud of and the perfect complement to any single malt from Benromach Distillery.”

The HÔRD collaboration is the start of a series of partnerships in the Firsthand campaign. In the coming months Benromach will continue to introduce new brand collaborations that bring to life the art of handmade.

To find out more about Firsthand or to buy a limited edition Benromach x HÔRD hip flask, visit Benromach.com/Firsthand.

About Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery and purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. Its five-star visitor centre is currently closed but is planned to reopen in the spring of 2022 for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

ISLE OF ARRAN DISTILLERS ANNOUNCE NEW LOCHRANZA DISTILLERY MANAGER

ISLE OF ARRAN DISTILLERS CONFIRM STEWART BOWMAN WILL BE JOINING THE ISLE OF ARRAN TEAM AS LOCHRANZA DISTILLERY MANAGER FROM NOVEMBER 2021

Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd. have announced the appointment of Stewart Bowman to head up the Lochranza Distillery team. Bowman will be taking the reins from David Livingstone who left the company in September to return to Islay, having guided the Distillery & Visitor Centre through the many challenges posed by the Covid pandemic.

Bowman was previously Site Operations Manager at Brora Distillery, as well as working in production at the Cragganmore Distillery. Prior to this he was Head Brewer at BrewDog for eight years. His impressive background in the industry is set to bring expertise and knowledge to the Lochranza Distillery Manager role with Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd.

Director of Operations & Production for Lagg and Lochranza Distilleries, James MacTaggart said: “We’re all very excited to be welcoming Stewart to our wonderful company. His experience, passion and understanding of the industry will no doubt be a huge asset as we look to the future with Lochranza Distillery.

“This is a very exciting time for Isle of Arran Distillers, and we are so happy to be welcoming visitors back to our distilleries after what has been a challenging period for the industry. With Stewart on board we are thrilled to get going with what promises to be a very exciting time for the company.”

Production began at the Isle of Arran’s first distillery in Lochranza almost 25 years ago. The proximity to Loch na Davie provided the distillery with a special source of fresh water for distilling, holding the distillery in good stead for years to come. The second distillery opened in the south of the island in 2019 at Lagg, where a very unique style of peated single malt is being made.

Notes:

Accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for:

Drinks Business Best Contribution to Wine and Spirits Tourism (2017)

Best Brewery/Distillery Tour – Scottish Outdoor Leisure Awards (2017)

Best Visitor Experience – Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (2018)

Product Awards include:

Arran 10-year-old: Gold Medal ‘Best Single Malt 12 Years & Under, World Whiskies Awards (2019) San Francisco World Spirits Competition Double Gold Medal (2018). International Wine & Spirits Competition Gold Medal (2018). Category Winner and Gold Medal ‘Best Scotch Under 12 Years’ Islands Non-Islay at the World Whiskies Awards (2018). International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018). Ultimate Spirits Challenge 91 points (2018). Ultimate Spirits Challenge Cocktail Commendation for the Rob Roy (2018). Double Gold Medal China Wine & Spirits Best Value Awards (2014)

Arran 18-year-old: Gold Medal & Category Winner ‘Best Single Malt 13 – 20 Years, World Whiskies Awards (2020)  Gold Medal ‘Best Single Malt 13 – 20 Years, World Whiskies Awards (2019) International Wine & Spirits Competition Gold Medal (2018) Category Winner & Gold Medal ‘Best Scotch 13-20 Years – Islands (Non- Islay) World Whiskies Awards (2018). International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018) Scottish Field Whisky Challenge – Gold Award for Best Whisky £50-100 (2018)

Quarter Cask ‘The Bothy’: Best Scotch Island Single Malt, World Whiskies Awards (2020 & 2019) Category Winner & Gold Medal ‘No Age Statement Single Malt’ for The Bothy Batch 3 World Whiskies Awards (2018). International Wine & Spirits Competition Silver Outstanding Medal (2018). International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018)

Arran Barrel Reserve:  Silver Medal ‘No Age Statement Single Malt’ World Whiskies Awards (2020)

JOURNEYMAN DISTILLERY’S HISTORIC COLLABORATION WITH THE FIELD MUSEUM IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Take the spirit of history on your travels

THREE OAKS, MI (November 9, 2021) — Journeyman Distillery is thrilled to announce that its artisan collection of Field Spirits, created in collaboration with the Field Museum, is now available for purchase at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport Terminal 1, just in time for holiday travels and shopping. First released in 2018 in celebration of Chicago’s Field Museum’s 125th anniversary, this series of historically-created spirits include a gin, vodka and rye whiskey made from botanicals that were first collected for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.

Crafted using locally-sourced Midwest grains and water from the distillery’s untreated underground aquifer, Journeyman Distillery prides itself in being exceptionally American.

Field Rye is made by macerating Journeyman’s most-awarded and best-selling Last Feather Rye whiskey with black mission fig, one of the world’s oldest sweeteners. By resting in the Last Feather Rye for more than three months, the black mission fig imparts subtle, all-natural and complimentary flavors of sweet melon, banana and strawberry to the spicy and fruity characteristics of the rye and is certified organic, kosher and gluten-free.

“It was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with the Field Museum, which has resulted in three historic, artisanal spirits that honor the Museum’s and the city of Chicago’s agricultural history. Distilling is all about history and preservation, and using the world’s oldest flavors to create the finest spirits is what Journeyman is all about,” says Journeyman Distillery founder Bill Welter. “A ‘Journeyman’ is also an adventurer who embarks on great unknown adventures, making it quite fitting for this collection to be available at O’Hare – for all kinds of journeys.”

“The partnership the Museum has with Journeyman continues to be incredible. It is rare to find a group of people who are as dedicated and invested in creating not just a product, but an experience with such authenticity and I am thrilled we get to share that now with travelers at O’Hare”, said Megan Williams, Director of Business Enterprises at the Field Museum.

Whether purchasing a gift on the way through town or restocking on the way back in, Field Spirits will be ready to travel and available at O’Hare International Airport as of November 20, 2021. Field Rye (SRP: $59.99)

For more information, visit journeymandistillery.com and fieldmuseum.org.

Founded in 2010, Journeyman Distillery crafts, bottles, sells, and serves organic and kosher certified spirits at the historic Featherbone Factory in Three Oaks, Michigan. The distillery prides itself on using the highest quality grains sourced from Midwestern organic farmers in its award-winning spirits as well as at its Staymaker restaurant. Journeyman products are distributed in 19 states across the country and available for purchase direct from the distillery. Learn more and find your spirit at journeymandistillery.com.

Journeyman Distillery
109 Generations Drive
Three Oaks, MI, 49128
United States

Gordon & MacPhail appoints new Finance Director

Premium spirits company Gordon & MacPhail has appointed Ben Cookman as Finance Director during a period of high growth, which sees the family-owned business working towards the opening of a new whisky distillery in the heart of the Cairngorms.

The appointment will see Cookman play an integral role in the organisation helping to shape and implement the Gordon & MacPhail business strategy, including delivering extensive capital plans and fuelling the growth of the company’s brands: Gordon & MacPhail, Benromach, Red Door and The Cairn.

Relocating to the north of Scotland from Bedfordshire, Cookman brings with him a wealth of experience from his previous role as Finance Director at Greenwoods GRM LLP and, prior to that, his position as Head of Finance at McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd.

Commenting on the appointment Ewen Mackintosh, Managing Director, said: “Ben joins us at an exciting time for Gordon & MacPhail as we work towards opening The Cairn Distillery in summer 2022.

“Gordon & MacPhail is known for its commitment to creating the finest whiskies and now, as we look towards this new chapter of the company with the creation of a purpose-built distillery in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, it is more important than ever that we invest in not only our stocks and infrastructure but also the right people who will help us achieve our business aspirations.

“Ben brings with him not only the technical skillset and knowledge required for the role but also a passion for the spirits industry and a desire to grow Gordon & MacPhail both domestically and in international markets.”

Finance Director Ben Cookman added: “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Finance Director at Gordon & MacPhail and look forward to helping the company achieve not only its current objectives, but also to support investment decisions that will secure its long-term success. One of the elements that attracted me to Gordon & MacPhail is this commitment, as a family business, to remain focused on the long-term future of the organisation.”

Set in a stunning landscape, The Cairn Distillery will be Gordon & MacPhail’s second whisky distillery. The Cairn will not only produce the finest single malt Scotch whisky but will also be home to a high-quality visitor centre, offering tours and tastings which will attract visitors from around the world.

For more information about Gordon & MacPhail visit www.gordonandmacphail.com.

Further information about The Cairn Distillery can also be found here: www.thecairndistillery.com.

About Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail, a fourth-generation family-owned premium spirits company based in Elgin, Scotland. Renowned as a Scotch whisky maturation expert, the business also owns Scotch whisky distillery, Benromach, on the outskirts of Forres, and The Cairn Distillery near Grantown-on-Spey.

Scottish Gin brand, Red Door was added to the portfolio in 2018 and Gordon & MacPhail is the operator of a wholesale business in the United Kingdom selling premium Scotch whiskies and spirits.  A high-quality retail outlet in Elgin, continues to serve locals and visitors alike, since 1895 when the business was established.

Benromach Distillery

The company owns Benromach Distillery located in Forres in Moray.  Benromach Single Malt Scotch Whisky is handcrafted using traditional methods by a small team of distillers using the finest Scottish barley and the purest spring water from the nearby Romach Hills. The multi award-winning portfolio of single malts is enjoyed by whisky drinkers worldwide.

The company launched Red Door in the summer of 2018. Created at Benromach Distillery, this award-winning, small batch Scottish gin now forms a strategic part of the company’s product portfolio.

The Cairn Distillery

Work commenced in July 2020 on the company’s second distillery, overlooking the River Spey towards the Cairngorms.  The new site will add further distillation capacity and brand ownership to the company’s asset base and is a key part of the plans to continue building a long-term sustainable business.  A high-quality visitor experience launching in summer 2022 offering tours and tastings will also attract visitors from around the world.

Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies

Since the founding of the business in 1895, Gordon & MacPhail has sent casks to Scotch whisky distilleries throughout Scotland to be filled with new-make spirit, before being left to mature for many years either at the distillery or in their bonded warehouses in Elgin.  The Gordon & MacPhail portfolio offers some of the world’s most unique and rare single malt Scotch whiskies to discerning whisky drinkers globally.

UK wholesale

The company’s wholesale business serves customers throughout the United Kingdom selling Gordon & MacPhail whiskies, Benromach whiskies and Red Door gin into the on and off trade. The business also exclusively represents several ‘distributor’ brands and stocks premium whiskies and spirits.

Retail

The retail shop in Elgin remains the ‘spiritual home’ of the business, over 120 years after it was first established in 1895.  The shop is home to a large selection of single malt Scotch whiskies and is a destination for many whisky aficionados from around the world.

Circumstance Distillery have launched the The Circ Club

Circumstance Distillery are delighted to announce they have launched The Circ Club and it’s just in time for Christmas.

The Circ Club, is a brand-new membership that will allow members a guaranteed opportunity to purchase all pre-releases, including Circumstance’s highly anticipated  inaugural whisky release in 2022.

Other benefits include, exclusive special offers, members discounts for tours and tastings and access to club member sales throughout the year. Perfect for Christmas gifting this festive season the annual membership is £25 a year.

Liam Hirt, founder of Circumstance Distillery commented “I’m thrilled we have created an exclusive spirits members club. We are all looking forward to learning together, growing our quality portfolio and having a lot of fun along the way!”

The membership is capped to a maximum of 100 people and once the club is full, new members will be added to the waiting list and they can join once a new spot becomes available.

To join The Circ Club click HERE

Glen Scotia partners with award-winning chef Gary Robinson to explore
‘perfect pairings’ with its new Seasonal Release single malt whisky

– Distiller teams up with The Balmoral Hotel’s Executive Chef to promote its limited-edition 12-year-old release, out now –

Campbeltown-based distiller Glen Scotia has partnered with Gary Robinson, Executive Chef at The Balmoral Hotel, to promote its new 12-year-old Seasonal Release, and explore the perfect pairing of whisky and food.

In a short new film captured at the hotel’s SCOTCH Bar and kitchens, the chef is joined by Glen Scotia ambassador Gary Mills as the maestros combine their expertise to discuss process, flavour and provenance while enjoying three new dishes created by Gary using the new limited-edition liquid.

Inspired by classic seasonal flavours including toffee, apple, orange citrus and warm spice, the Seasonal Release (54.7% ABV), uses a series of unpeated distillations from 2009 matured in first-fill Bourbon casks and American Oak hogsheads. After maturation for eleven years, the liquid is then transferred and finished in first-fill Oloroso hogsheads and heavily charred American Oak barrels for its final year, before marrying the casks together and bottling at cask strength. It follows the success of the distillers’ limited-edition Sherry Double Cask Finish last year.

The Seasonal Release menu from Gary includes:
• Whisky-cured salmon with apples and celery
• Barbequed pork belly with a sticky whisky-honey sauce & braised pearl barley
• Poached pear salad, whisky caramel and pecan toffee

Gary Robinson arrived at The Balmoral in June 2019 having travelled the world – gaining over 25 years of global culinary experience, most notably in the honourable position of Head Chef to HRH the Prince of Wales. Gary strongly believes in creating dishes that are as meaningful, sustainable and authentic as possible. Showcasing excellence within hotels, restaurants, private households and clubs, he is a strong advocate for classical cooking techniques that retain the natural goodness of homegrown ingredients.

Perfect pairings and the sense of uniting are intrinsic to Glen Scotia, from its whisky-making process where it combines casks and finishes to deliver classic Campbeltown flavours, to its role in the region where the whisky industry has helped to bind the small community together throughout centuries, who have in turn ensured the distillery endured.

Glen Scotia brand ambassador, Gary Mills, said: “The 12-year-old Seasonal Release is another fine dram that brings together those unmistakably seasonal flavours with Glen Scotia’s subtle maritime style, and the result is something very special indeed.
“While the concept of food and drink go hand in hand, it’s been eye-opening to collaborate with Gary Robinson to delve deeper into flavour profiling and consider how they marry together to enhance ingredients on the plate and in a dram – or even better to be enjoyed together.

“This sense of ‘togetherness’ is woven throughout Glen Scotia, which for centuries has endured by virtue of the unique spirit of its community. Food and celebrations, often centred around the town market cross, are part of the history of our tight-knit community in Campbeltown. We hope this partnership will provide some wonderful inspiration for our fans to make at home alongside a dram”

Executive Chef Gary Robinson added: “I’m always excited to get into the kitchen and experiment, especially with a fine dram from Glen Scotia. The new 12-year-old Seasonal Release is a hero ingredient in the three dishes I’ve created. Each dish showcases an indulgent seasonal flavour profile, with the whisky really enhancing each ingredient.

“I created these dishes with the vision that they are the perfect recipes to bring people together – not too complicated to recreate at home and each offers a really special meal for friends and family to come together, gather around a table and enjoy.”

The latest 12-year-old Glen Scotia is another unrivalled issue from the region steeped in so much history with whisky production. In the Victorian age, Campbeltown was known as the whisky capital of the world, with over 30 distilleries packed into the town and neigh on every inhabitant involved in its creation. Only three distilleries endured and prevailed to the present day, and Glen Scotia stands proudly among the last of the many. It benefits from years of local knowledge, experience, craft and whisky passion distilled down into the present Glen Scotia team of today The brand achieved global recognition this year after its 25-year-old single malt whisky was crowned Best in Show and thus Best Whisky in the World at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Seasonal Release retails at £75. It is available for purchase now from the Glen Scotia website (www.glenscotia.com) and through UK specialist retailers.

Notes

Glen Scotia Seasonal Release tasting notes
• Nose: toffee, apple, seaspray, vanilla
• Palate: warm spice, nutty, floral, orange citrus, melted brown sugar
• Finish: long nutty finish with pears & dried peel

About Glen Scotia

Distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832 and is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown. The distillery still maintains much of its original design, including the fermenters, the stillroom and the dunnage warehouse dating from the 1830s.To this day, the distillery team follow in the footsteps of their founders, using traditional methods, carefully creating the unique Campbeltown maritime style the brand has become world-famous for.

In 2021, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch whisky was awarded ‘Best In Show Whisky’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Over 3,800 entries across 31 categories were judged with Glen Scotia being awarded the overall winner across all countries and styles.

Twitter: @GlenScotiaMalts
Instagram: @glenscotiamalts
Facebook: @GlenScotiaWhisky

About The Balmoral Hotel

Many hotels claim to have landmarks on their doorstep, few can say their doorstep is a landmark. The Balmoral is a grand railway hotel located at Edinburgh’s most prestigious address, No 1 Princes Street. The Balmoral began life as a grand railway hotel in 1902 and offers 187 contemporary rooms and opulent suites. Excellent cuisine is guaranteed in the Michelin-starred Number One restaurant as well as the hotel’s all-day dining venue Brasserie Prince. Afternoon Tea is served in Palm Court and the hotel boasts a collection of over 500 single malt whiskies at SCOTCH.

Facebook – @BalmoralEdinburgh
Instagram – @thebalmoral
Twitter – @The_Balmoral

BOWMORE® SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY INTRODUCES

BOWMORE® MASTERS’ SELECTION

AND UNITES THE WORLDS OF WHISKY MAKING AND AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN 

Islay, Scotland (November 8, 2021) – A shared commitment to heritage, craftsmanship and innovation unites the worlds of whisky making and automotive design with the creation of the new limited edition Bowmore® Masters’ Selection, the latest single malt whisky to be made by Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky in collaboration with Aston Martin. This whisky also marks the first time Bowmore has adopted the “Golden Ratio” principle to create a new whisky. It will be available in the US as of January 2022.

Imagined and defined by two Masters, Bowmore Master Whisky Blender Ron Welsh and Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman, Bowmore Masters’ Selection bridges two distinct worlds in a powerful, yet inspiring way. At its heart is a mutual trust and respect for one other’s worlds and a passion to discover and learn from each other. Each Master imparts their own creativity and character, but also makes an indelible mark, like leaving their own unique fingerprint, on every single creation.

Marek Reichman, has often spoken about the concept of the ‘Golden Ratio’ – the mathematical ratio found in nature that creates aesthetically pleasing compositions – which sits at the heart of the design of every Aston Martin. Absolute beauty can be created when you achieve a perfect relationship between each proportion of the car.

Reichman explains: “Proportionality defines every precise detail of designing an Aston Martin. We are constantly striving to achieve the Golden Ratio, the optimal of proportions. And it is this force which guides the creation of absolute beauty. To achieve this, we must combine our skill, passion and experience. Coming together with Ron just brings a whole new perspective on this and is hugely inspiring and enlightening. This whisky perfectly and harmoniously brings us together to create a beautiful, yet powerful equilibrium.”

For Bowmore, proportions define character and shape flavor combinations; from cask selection and age to blending. Ron Welsh, Master Blender, Bowmore, explains, “For the first time with this whisky, we have adopted the Golden Ratio to inspire each of the elements bringing their own unique flavors and selecting the optimal casks to forge the desired character, taking inspiration from Marek and his team.  What seems totally contrasting is, in fact, perfectly balanced and proportionate. Working with Marek has given me a new lens from which to explore whisky making.  This whisky serves as a celebration of our unified knowledge and experience; our shared passions, values and ideas.”

Taking inspiration from an engineered approach, this whisky incorporates the divine proportion of 61.8% formed from a base of 21 year old Bowmore matured in first fill Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks. The remaining parts are made up of exact ratios of each other, in line with the Golden Ratio theory, and include exceptionally aged Bowmore matured for over 35 years.

For this single malt, a powerful and complex yet sweet warming dram, the creators seem to have created absolute contrast but in reality, they have captured perfect balance and proportion. With a clear nod to Aston Martin in the very creation of this Bowmore whisky, it exudes a sophistication and complexity which is truly considered yet promises a thrilling taste experience.

Powerful yet elegant; from sweet to spice; sherry to coffee; honey to pepper – the perfect proportions to achieve absolute depth and balance.

Bowmore Masters’ Selection is available in key global markets including the United States, UK, Germany, Canada and China. In the U.S., available as of January 2022 with a suggested retail price is $400.

Tasting notes: Bowmore Masters’ Selection, 51.8% ABV

COLOR:                Mahogany

NOSE:                  Sweet and nutty with notes of Manuka honey and maple syrup with praline and grilled hazelnuts; combine with rich aromas of freshly tanned leather, cigar tobacco, licorice roots, dried thyme and heather blossom.

TASTE:                 Richly elegant sherry merges with raw Islay peat, while bitter dark chocolate, black pepper, butterscotch sauce unites with vanilla and coffee beans and a fruity flair is defined by Morello cherries and a touch of papaya.

FINISH:                Sweet, spicy and mouth warming, with notes of oak spices, chestnut cream and coconut lingering.

About Aston Martin Lagonda

Aston Martin Lagonda is a luxury automotive group focused on the creation of exclusive cars and SUVs. The iconic Aston Martin brand fuses the latest technology, exceptional hand craftsmanship and timeless design to produce models including the Vantage, DB11, DBS Superleggera and the new SUV, DBX.  Based in Gaydon, England, Aston Martin Lagonda designs, creates and exports cars which are sold in 55 countries around the world. Lagonda was founded in 1899 and Aston Martin in 1913. The two brands came together in 1947 when both were purchased by the late Sir David Brown.

About Bowmore®

For more than 240 years, the Bowmore Distillery has been capturing the essence of Islay from the shores of its remote island home. Shaped by centuries of skill and tradition, Bowmore’s single malt harnesses the power of this time in every single drop, defined by the past and savoured in the present.

Time is defining at Bowmore and we tirelessly harness the power of time to shape our whiskies. Our distillery’s adherence to traditional production methods helps to shape the character of our fruity and smoky single malts. Today, we are amongst one of a few distilleries which still produces its own floor malted barley, hand-turned by a traditional wooden malt shovel and hand drawn machinery. Water for the whiskies is specially drawn from the Laggan River and uses Islay peat to fire the malt-drying kiln.

Bowmore® Distillery’s proximity to the sea is also vital in determining the final character of its spirit and gives a hint of sea air to the character. The legendary Bowmore® No. 1 Vaults is where most of the whiskies spend their long lives resting quietly in the cool, dark, damp cellars below sea level, oblivious to the waves thrashing the vault’s sea-facing wall.

Matured in oak casks, previously used for bourbon, sherry, or claret, over time developing rich and mellow flavours until the expertise of our whisky makers deems them ready for bottling.  It is this combination of peat, barley, sea breeze, water, wood, people, and tradition that makes Bowmore the exceptional single malt it is today.

Time is marked on each and every bottle of Bowmore, proudly and boldly as a marker of where and when each one’s journey began.  This is our story of time. This is Bowmore, the Art of Time since 1779. www.bowmore.com

About Beam Suntory

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Basil Hayden, Knob Creek and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com