GLENGLASSAUGH UNVEILS ULTIMATE COASTAL TREASURE WITH NEW 50 YEAR OLD

The Highland hidden gem that is Glenglassaugh lay silent for over two decades before being reawakened in 2008. Since then, the small, coastal distillery has released a range of award-winning boutique whiskies and now celebrates the release of one of its oldest and rarest expressions.

Shaped by the influences of land and sea for over half a century, Glenglassaugh 50 Year Old has gently matured in the distillery’s coastal warehouses overlooking the rolling surf of Sandend Bay.

The rare expression, of which there are just 264 bottles available, has been bottled from a single Pedro Ximénez sherry cask from Andalucīa in Spain. After breathing in the elements of the North Sea air for over 50 years, the result is a luscious and rich Highland Single Malt with a flavour profile that boasts a symphony of exotic fruit on a gentle ocean breeze.

Selected by Master Blender, Rachel Barrie, who learned to surf as a child on the waves that break below the distillery, the Glenglassaugh 50 Year Old is an inimitable and complex exemplar of the distillery’s lush, coastal spirit.

Earlier this year, the expression was awarded the highest possible accolade of double gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Each bottle is housed in a bespoke presentation box designed to display the bottle and the liquid’s rich tones.

Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Glenglassaugh Distillery, said:

“A lot can happen in half a century, and this whisky has seen many important milestones whilst maturing in our warehouses. From the distillery being lost then revived 13 years ago to the release of its first core range celebrating its youthful spirit.

“Offering a deep and seductive sweetness, the 50 Year Old’s flavour profile ranges from caramelised pear to soft exotic cherries; almond and refined oak beautifully intertwine to present a symphony of tropical notes on a gentle ocean breeze with rolling waves of flavour, which intensify and evolve with each sip. It’s a privilege to unveil this premium bottling to whisky fans around the world at the beginning of a new chapter for Glenglassaugh celebrating both old and new.”

The Glenglassaugh 50 Year Old is of natural cask colour and bottled at 40.1% ABV. The initial release features 264 bottles that will be available across select international markets in Europe and Asia from June 2021.

About the Glenglassaugh 50 Year Old

UK RRP: £5,500 (GBP) Global markets may vary.

Available at specialist retailers in Europe and Asia.

Tasting notes

Colour: Dark manuka honey

Nose: Deep, seductive layers of sweet almond frangipane, figs and blackberry, carried on a wave of ocean spice, toasted oak and salted honeycomb.

Palette: A complex symphony of cassis and soft exotic fruits with rolling waves of papaya, mango and cherry. Mellow oak and yellow plum add a memorable sophistication to this exceptional rare malt.

Finish: Savour the soft lingering finish of caramelized pear, pineapple and pomegranate, beautifully intertwined with almond and refined oak; on a gentle ocean breeze.

Natural cask colour, bottled at 40.1% ABV.  

About Glenglassaugh Distillery:

On the crescent beach of Sandend Bay stands Glenglassaugh Distillery, producing a luscious coastal malt, shaped by the rich abundance of land and sea, with rolling waves of flavour. A whisky whose essence is distilled from the visible and invisible influences of land, sea, air and spring water. Its heritage stretches back to 1875 when the distillery was founded by Colonel James Moir. It was on the banks of Glassaugh stream that the distillery was built, and its name ‘Glenglassaugh’ – meaning ‘valley of the grey-green place’ – has been taken from its beautiful surroundings. Despite being mothballed for over twenty years, the distillery has a history of elegant maturation, with award-winning old vintages dating back to the 1960s, and an award-winning range of boutique younger whiskies, released in the years following the distillery’s reopening in 2008. As this jewel of a coastal malt is discovered and enjoyed, it promises to become a cult, contemporary classic.  

GLENGLASSAUGH DISTILLERY:

www.glenglassaugh.com

Twitter: @Glenglassaugh

Instagram: glenglassaugh

Facebook: /GlenglassaughDistillery

IRISH DISTILLERS LAUNCHES ‘A PERFECT BLEND’ PODCAST 

The four-part podcast miniseries highlights the partnerships at the heart of Irish whiskey 

Dublin, June 24^th, 2021 – Irish Distillers, producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys has today, announced the launch of a new podcast, ‘A Perfect Blend’.

Produced and hosted by multi-award winning radio producer Julien Clancy, the four-part mini-series focuses on the power of collaboration, by bringing stories of craft and shared passions from the world of Irish whiskey, the world’s fastest growing premium spirit, to life. The podcast features commentary from some of the industry’s most influential voices who reflect on shared aspirations, lessons learned and hopes for the future.

‘A Perfect Blend’ begins with Irish Distillers cooper Killian O’Mahony and President of Kelvin Cooperage in Kentucky, Paul McLaughlin, who discuss the origins of their enthusiasm for the age-old craft of coopering. In the second episode, Richard Forsyth of distillery design and build firm, Forsyths, and distiller at Irish Distillers, Katherine Condon, speak about the discovery of their unique skills and relationship with the great copper pot still.

In the third episode, forestry consultant and Pro Silva Ireland co-founder Paddy Purser and Finbarr Curran, the man responsible for sourcing Irish Distillers’ barrels, give an insight into the how the industry is working together on cask sustainability. In the concluding episode, Irish Distillers archivist Carol Quinn and design duo Matthew Bolger and Emelie Lindstrom of M+E Design reflect on the art of storytelling and the unexpected benefits of collaboration.

Conor McQuaid, CEO and Chairman of Irish Distillers said: “Our community extends beyond Midleton Distillery and the shores of Ireland. With the launch of this podcast we seek to the explore the unique bonds and common threads that shape our story and celebrate the power of the partnerships that we have with craftspeople all over the world. Over four episodes, we want to highlight their contribution to the international success of Irish whiskey. We hope that listeners will enjoy this mini-series and will take away insights and perspectives from our industry that they may not have expected.”

Episodes are available to download now on Audioboom, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Castbox, RadioPublic.

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 7.6m cases in 2020. 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 €9,182 million in FY19. 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 three-year 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 roadmap supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “We bring 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 and is ranked No. 1 in the beverage sector in Vigeo Eiris. 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 index

The Epicurean Launches Two New “Wood Series” Single Cask Bottlings 

Douglas Laing & Co has today released both a Ruby Port Finished and Tawny Port Finished Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky as part of The Epicurean Wood Series.

The Epicurean’s fourth and fifth specialist Single Cask releases are bottled at a high alcohol strength of 48% and are proudly offered without chill-filtration. The 100% natural, rich colour of the spirit in each edition has been imparted by the Ruby Port or Tawny Port seasoned Single Cask used for maturing the award-winning Lowland Malt. With this innovative series, The Epicurean seeks to demonstrate that flavour is created throughout the Whisky-making process but most significantly during the interaction between the spirit and the wood when it is in the oak cask.

For both bottlings, The Epicurean Malt was first matured in premium American Oak before being re-racked into a hand-selected Ruby Port Single Cask or Tawny Port Single Cask for a second maturation period of more than twelve months. The result is a full-bodied Malt with layers of complexity and character.

Both the Ruby Port cask and Tawny Port cask originate from the Douro Valley in northern Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world.

Cara Laing, Director of Whisky, who hand-selected the casks commented: “The Epicurean is a master of versatility, his wonderfully fresh and vibrant Lowland character lends itself beautifully to experimentation with different wood finishes. The deep colour presented in each of these releases speaks for the intense flavour of the spirit. The Ruby Port Finish boasts an explosion of flavours including spices, milk chocolate and tangy raspberries; and The Tawny Port Finish embodies the vibrant taste of juicy pears, red wine and sweet almonds. We are delighted with the result of these bottlings and can’t wait to innovate with the next release in The Epicurean Wood Series.”

Packed in a premium gift tube, The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish Limited Edition and The Epicurean Tawny Port Finish Limited Edition are expected to retail at £59.99/€70 from good specialist retailers. 

About The Epicurean:

Facebook: @DLTheEpicurean
Instagram: @theepicureanwhisky

A marriage of Single Cask Single Malts, only from the Lowland region of Scotland, The Epicurean is characterised by his fresh, zesty and grassy flavour profile. The multi-award winning Scotch Whisky belongs to Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts -“the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions” – also encompassing Timorous Beastie Highland Malt Scotch Whisky, Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (from the Islands) and Big Peat (Islay). 

About Douglas Laing:

www.douglaslaing.com

Twitter @DLaingWhisky
Facebook: @douglaslaingwhisky
Instagram: @dlaingwhisky

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distiller, blender and bottler specialising in the selection and release of Single Cask Single and Small Batch Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family – Fred Laing Jr and his daughter Cara Laing.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and without chill-filtration to preserve the robust and unique character of the Whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards is testament to this ethos.

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Islands (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay). Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old Particular and Xtra Old Particular, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Release of Five Brothers Bourbon

Small batch pays homage to five Shapira brothers, launches with grand opening of Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience

BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of Five Brothers Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. A small batch blending of five ages of Bourbon, Five Brothers Bourbon pays homage to the courage, dedication and solidarity of the five Shapira brothers who started it all in 1935.

Five Brothers Bourbon is comprised of Heaven Hill’s traditional Bourbon mashbill aged from five- to nine-years-old to represent each founding brother. Bottled at 90 proof to reflect the initial proofs of Heaven Hill releases in the early stages of the distillery, the new small batch is a callback to the beginnings of Heaven Hill’s award-winning portfolio. Unique to the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience and select Kentucky retailers, visitors can also experience a taste or cocktail at the Five Brothers Bar & Kitchen in the new visitor center unveiled on June 14. Sweet and smooth with notes of vanilla and sugar cookie, the finish is long yet subtle making for an easy sipper.

“In 1935, my father and his four brothers invested in a speculative venture that today is the largest family-owned and operated distillery in America, Heaven Hill Distillery,” said Max L. Shapira, Heaven Hill President. “With patience and perseverance, they built the foundation for the nationally acclaimed American Whiskey portfolio we enjoy today and a legacy built on consistent quality and innovation.”

The most striking detail of the premium bottle is the face label feature of a black and white photo of the five Shapira Brothers when they were in their 20’s and early 30’s: David, Ed, Gary, George, and Mose. The beautiful packaging also showcases complimentary nods to the 1930’s with vintage paper face and back labels, an Americana color scheme, and a classic navy and gold tax strip to seal the cork. Five Brothers Bourbon is available in 750ml for $59.99 at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.9 million barrels aging in 63 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

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

THE WORLD’S FIRST BIODYNAMIC WHISKY TO BE BOTTLED THIS SUMMER

Waterford Distillery will start bottling Biodynamic: Luna – the first whisky on sale anywhere in the world made solely from biodynamic barley – this summer

The product, the second instalment in Waterford Whisky’s Arcadian series, which explores the old ways of farming and flavour origins, will go on sale globally from late summer

CEO Mark Reynier’s quest to find the ultimate whisky flavour led Waterford Whisky to adopt the biodynamic farming method, which is used by many of the world’s greatest winemakers

Three growers in Ireland have incorporated the rigorous biodynamic principles, which are based on lectures by enigmatic Austrian philosopher-scientist Rudolf Steiner in the 1920s, and applied them to barley

Ireland’s Waterford Distillery has confirmed that its Biodynamic: Luna – the first whisky anywhere in the world to go on sale made from solely biodynamic barley – will be bottled this summer.

The whisky, which is the vision of CEO Mark Reynier, has been in development for several years. It will be the second instalment in Waterford Whisky’s Arcadian series, which investigates how historic farming and growing techniques impact the flavour of whisky. The first instalment, Organic: Gaia 1.1, was released last year to critical acclaim.

Waterford Whisky has distilled around 500 barrels of spirit made from local biodynamic barley, and annually incorporates biodynamics as part of its ongoing ambition to create the most flavoursome spirit possible.

Biodynamic: Luna’s arrival will be the culmination of Mark Reynier’s project to bring biodynamics out of the wine world and into whisky, which has required three Irish growers – Trevor Harris, John McDonnell and Alan Mooney – to apply biodynamic agricultural practices to barley.

An advanced and esoteric form of farming, often described as “uber-organic” or “organic plus”, the principles of biodynamic farming were first discussed in a series of agricultural lectures by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner in 1924. They assume that each farm is its own self-sustaining organism and that elements including soil, crops, animals, people and the ‘spirit of place’ are all interconnected.

The approach includes some noteworthy methods that Waterford Distillery’s local growers have adopted for the production of biodynamic barley. They include: burying cow horns filled with manure or mineral silica under the soil during the winter or summer months respectively, ploughing fields with horses rather than mechanical machinery, and sowing barley seeds according to the position of the moon.

The purpose of all the elements combined is to produce the healthiest possible soil and thus crops – the ultimate regenerative agriculture. When applied to barley, the very source of malt whisky’s complex flavour, the Waterford Whisky team believes it will contribute to a more flavoursome whisky.

Mark Reynier, CEO and Founder of Waterford Distillery – who spent more than 20 years in the winemaking industry before another 20 in whisky – explains: “Many of the world’s very greatest winemakers follow biodynamic farming to produce the most exquisite flavours. The Burgundian legends Romanée Conti, Leroy, Leflaive, Trapet and Sauzet. Alsacians Zind Humbrecht, Ostertag and Zusselin; And the mighty chateaux of Latour, Lafite, Yquem, Climens, Pontet Canet, Angelus, Palmer from Bordeaux.

“But nobody has released a whisky made from purely locally-grown biodynamic barley – until now.

“Malt whisky already is the most complex spirit in the world thanks to the barley from which it is distilled, and with a biodynamic cultivation regime there is the ultimate opportunity to enhance its flavour. At Waterford, we are on a mission to create the most complex, unique and profound whisky, and biodynamics is the next step on that journey. It makes little  financial sense, but for taste – for taste alone – it is the holy grail. Simply put: the healthiest possible soil equals the best possible flavour.”

The influence of biodynamics on the life and structure of the soil is undeniable: a recent study by Professor Magali Delmas at UCLA analysed tasting scores given to more than 128,000 French wines from 1995 to 2015 finding that biodynamic wines scored 11.8 points more compared to conventional or sustainable wines.

Unlike other whisky producers, Waterford Distillery’s credentials are built on the demonstrated concept of terroir, in which factors such as weather, soil and microclimate influence the flavours found in crops and the products made from them. A distillery-led academic study, published in peer-review journal Foods earlier this year, revealed conclusive evidence that terroir is found in barley and whisky.

About Waterford Distillery 

Influenced by the world’s greatest winemakers, Waterford Distillery obsessively brings the same intellectual drive, methodology and rigour to single malt whisky.

Using 100% Irish barley, widely considered to be the world’s finest, its Single Farm Origin series is an uber-provenance range of limited edition natural whiskies that explore Irish terroir one farm, once place, at a time. They are expressions of precision and rarity, showcasing barley flavours derived from individual Irish farms and harvests. The distillery’s ultimate aim is that these component single malts come together to create the world’s most unique, complex and profound whisky.

For more information, visit https://waterfordwhisky.com/

Note: Though Waterford Whisky is the first producer to bring biodynamic spirit to the market, Mark Reynier first trialled distilling biodynamic barley several years ago when he ran Bruichladdich Distillery, Scotland – though using imported English barley at the time.

THE SOCIETY EXPERIMENTS WITH BOTANICALS TO INVIGORATE THEIR FLORAL COCKTAIL OFFERING

SMWS CREATES A SIGNATURE COCKTAIL MENU INSPIRED BY FRESH BOTANICALS

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has teamed up with Dr Greg Kenicer of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and world-renowned mixologist, Jason Scott to explore how fresh plants can enhance the flavour of whisky cocktails.

Inspired by the summer plants that grow in our gardens and wild forests, Greg and Jason have created cocktails that explore the more delicate and floral notes within The Society’s outturn whiskies.

Dr Greg Kenicer is an expert botanist and lecturer at Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden and is the critically acclaimed author of the Scottish Plant Lore and Plant Magic.

Having been part of The Royal Botanic Garden for over 20 years, Greg has a keen interest in traditional plant uses, as well as the diversity and evolution of the pea family.

Through complementing and contrasting edible flowers and exciting mixers, the cocktails feature rich botanical ingredients that include fresh lavender, a key component of rich Mediterranean habitats and Scottish gorse, which brings a subtle flavour of coconut to any cocktail.

Dr Greg Kenicer, said: “I am delighted to be working with Jason and The Scotch Malt Whisky Society on this exciting and unique project.

“When it comes to enhancing and developing cocktail flavours, there is so much out there for drink makers and bartenders to explore from the botanical kingdom. Many of these plants can be grown in a garden or even a window box, or you can find them at your local supermarkets.

“Since the Stone Age, botanicals and fresh plants have been used as compounds to enhance the flavour of drinks. It’s really exciting to see mixologists across the world continuing this ancient legacy, and also innovating in so many creative ways.”

Adding his thoughts, Jason Scott of Bramble bar and Lucky Liquor Co. said: “Whisky’s botanical heart and the vast range of flavour profiles available mean there are a host of botanical ingredients that complement whisky inspired cocktails.

“After visiting The Botanics and meeting up with Greg, it’s been a journey of fun and discovery to create these fantastic floral cocktails. I’m confident whisky and flower lovers alike will adore this summer cocktail menu.”

The signature cocktails will be available at SMWS Bath Street, Queen Street and Greville Street from Friday 11th June. Non-members are also welcome to attend Queen Streets’ Kaleidoscope Bar and can visit both Bath Street and Greville Street venues on Tuesday evenings, by booking online or by phone.

To celebrate the signature cocktail menu, the SMWS will also be hosting an event on the 29th of June, at their Queen Street venue.

Cocktail list:

Queen Street, Edinburgh – Joy & Sorrel

The Joy & Sorrel features vibrant fuchsia flowers with a taste of citrus lemon and sweet sorrel syrup.

Bath Street, Glasgow – Melancholy Crush

This refreshing julep combines an elegantly fruity and herbal dram with fresh mint, lemon and Angostura Bitters.

Greville Street, London – Four Seasons

This London inspired violet Penicillin, features a 2008 Speyside distilled whisky combined with ingredients that include fresh lavender, finished in an old-fashioned glass.

Bottled – Flaming Primrose

Garnished with a primrose flower, this vibrant blood-red cocktail incorporates infused gorse Campari and Sweet Vermouth with an 8-year-old single malt, an oily and coastal whisky.

For more information about the Scotch Malt Whisky Society click here.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

#SMWS

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 27,000 members and branches around the world
• The SMWS bottles rare single malt whisky, and a range of other spirits
• The Society bottles single malts, unique single casks and exclusive blends
• The Society has bottled whisky from more than 140 distilleries from Scotland and beyond
• The Society offers a new batch of around 20 single malt whiskies every month

The Society offers a variety of membership packages that can be tailored. Please see https://cutt.ly/RnT8ZDQ

For more information about the Society, visit https://cutt.ly/UnQtmAA

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society | SMWS

Become a member of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society and discover the world's widest selection of rare and exceptional single cask whiskies.

Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk

THE CRAFT IRISH WHISKEY CO. PUSHES THE BOUNDARIES OF IRISH WHISKEY CRAFTSMANSHIP

WITH THE LAUNCH OF ITS 2001 DOUBLE-DISTILLED, SINGLE-MALT WHISKEY

20^th June 2021, Dublin The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. is delighted to announce its third release with the inaugural launch of a limited 661 bottles of rare double-distilled, single malt whiskey, matured for over two decades, The Brollach, on Father’s Day (20^th June 2021). With three new product launches since November 2020, The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. has established more than a new brand; they have taken Irish whiskey into a new top-shelf ultra-luxury category and with the release of The Brollach, now looks to establish itself in the double-distilled space.

The Brollach is a personal tribute to Founder Jay Bradley’s late father, who sadly passed away in 2020, but was a huge inspiration for creation of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. Together they shared an unmatched passion and knowledge of whiskey, with the dream of building a legacy and creating the finest Irish whiskeys. The latest release has been named after the O’Brollachans, which is the ancient rendering of the Bradley name and represents their Irish heritage, lineage and craftsmanship. The Brollach is a celebration of Irish whiskey tradition, since the Celtic nation was the originator of the brown liquor as long ago as the 12^th Century.

Founder Jay Bradley had an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age and left school at 14 to work as a furniture craftsman with his father in Ireland until he was 19.  On 21^st January 2001 Jay left the Emerald Isle and moved to Australia on 22^nd January 2001 to follow his dreams and embark on adult life. To honour this huge milestone in Jay’s life, The Brollach has been distilled on the same day: 22^nd January 2001.

Located within close proximity to where Jay Bradley was raised, The Brollach was matured on the southeast coast of Ireland using the freshest Irish water and finest barley aged in 200-litre Ex American Bourbon casks, which adds a deep oaky flavour to the whiskey, and then finished in 128-litre rare French Oak Madeira barrels, emerging when it is at its zenith. French Oak Madeira is made exclusively on the island off the coast of Portugal and the 128-litre barrels achieve the perfect spirit ratio based on the flavour profile of the Madeira.

Years of maturation has imparted flavours of honeysuckle, butterscotch and caramel to create a whiskey that is unmistakably masculine and intimate, which brings a fresh, intense and potent profile – reflecting Jay’s father’s character. Irish whiskey is traditionally triple-distilled, however The Brollach has been uniquely double-distilled to symbolise the powerful bond between father and son and imparts complexity that is compelling, intense and vibrant to create the finest double-distilled, single malt Irish whiskey of its generation.

Crafted from raw Nordic oak and brushed with stainless steel, The Brollach’s experience box celebrates Irish craftsmanship, paying homage to the Bradley family’s Celtic heritage and honours Jay’s father as a master craftsman, with its strong, bold and masculine design. It features a heavy grain on the box, which cleverly leads the eye towards the clasps and the stainless-steel trim. The beautifully crafted box also contains a 70cl bottle of The Brollach, along with two handcrafted Finn glasses which blend science and artistry into an inimitably designed masterpiece, all the whiskey notes, scents and flavours to be highlighted and experienced like never before.

The Brollach bottle sits in a solid oak plinth, with a slightly curved backdrop that echoes the lines of a barrel, and the interior is a rich, dark suede, set against a foam protector. The drawer, which sits underneath, contains four obsidian whiskey stones, a glass and anodised silver pipette, and two vials; one for a taster of whiskey and the other for the user to add Irish spring water (or his / her preferred one) to open the flavours.

Jay Bradley, Founder, The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. commented: “Whiskey is my absolute passion in life and The Brollach is a very personal release to me as it is a tribute to my late father. The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. was born out of a conversation with him and our shared interest for the finer things in life, particularly whiskey craftsmanship. 

The Brollach is unique as it has an intense and potent profile, which I feel really reflects my father’s character, and it is also pushing the boundaries of Irish whiskey craftsmanship as it is a double-distilled, single-malt whiskey matured for over two decades. As double-distilled whiskey ages, it becomes more complex and spicier, only released when the flavour of the whiskey is at its best. Traditionally Irish whiskey is triple-distilled and we are very proud to have created a product that ensures luxury Irish whiskey is being represented in the double-distilled space.”

The Brollach follows the success of the brand’s first release in November 2020, The Devil’s Keep, a 29-year-old, triple-distilled, single malt whiskey. The Devil’s Keep achieved the world record for the most expensive inaugural whiskey release ever at auction at USD $60,000 (almost £46,000 and €51,000). The multi award-winning first release achieved Gold in the ‘Packaging Design Category 2020-2021’ of the A’ Design Award and ‘Luxury Drinks Secondary Pack’ at The Luxury Packaging Awards 2020 for The Devil’s Keep experience box, as well as Highly Commended for the design of The Devil’s Keep bottle in the ‘Luxury Drinks Primary Pack’ award.

The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. also partnered with Fabergé to unveil ‘The Emerald Isle Collection’ in February 2021 – a seven-piece custom-made whiskey set which features two bottles of ultra-rare 30-year-old, triple-distilled Irish whiskey, along with two exclusive creations from Fabergé. It was crowned the oldest triple-distilled Irish whiskey in the world and the inaugural experience box sold at auction for a record-breaking USD $2m.

For further information on The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. and The Brollach visit: https://craftirishwhiskey.com/the-brollach/

Notes:

Cost: €5,500(+ VAT)

The Brollach Tasting Notes:

Nose: Vibrant, fresh and intense, with apricot, which melts into a subtle butterscotch.

Back palate: Dark cherry with a hint of sourness that softens into dark chocolate, with a caramelised banana flavour that lingers in an oily, almost velvet-like, mouth-feel. 

About The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.:

The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. is different. This is not mass-produced whiskey, but an attention to detail and crafting processes that create the very finest craft Irish whiskey.

The company sources rare whiskey and uses ultra-premium finishing barrels to mature its whiskey due to the high quality of the wood and previous spirit or wine that helps deliver complex flavour profiles. The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. knows that a premium level of spirit stored in this type of barrel adds deep and complex flavours into the finish which produces a phenomenal Irish whiskey.

The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. uniquely cask their whiskey at 52% ABV. Adding water in at the start allows the water and whiskey to marry over time creating a far smoother whiskey.

The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. is the proud whiskey partner of the The MICHELIN Guide and a partner in the Michelin Star Revelation Great Britain and Ireland 2021 by presenting the award for Sommelier Of The Year 2021.

Their first release in November was The Devil’s Keep, the first ultra-rare Irish whiskey in the world and the oldest ever triple-distilled Irish single malt whiskey, as well as being crowned the most expensive first release in the history of whiskey at €10,000 per bottle. Significantly, it also achieved the world record for the most expensive inaugural whiskey release ever at auction at USD $60,000 (almost £46,000 and €51,000 Euros).

INTRODUCING THE MACALLAN CONCEPT NO. 3 –

CREATED IN COLLABORATION WITH DESIGN ICON DAVID CARSON

The Macallan has unveiled Concept No. 3, a collaboration with visionary graphic designer David Carson that brings together the worlds of whisky and the visual arts.

Concept No. 3 is the latest release in The Macallan Concept Series, a limited collection of annual release whiskies which fuse the artistry and expertise behind The Macallan’s whisky-making with creativity and culture.

For the third and final expression in the series, The Macallan turned to acclaimed US graphic designer David Carson. Born in Texas, 1954, David, who is also a professional surfer, began his creative career as a magazine designer. In the 1990s he became art director of the magazine Ray Gun, where his experimental page layouts featuring pioneering use of typography revolutionised the field of graphic design.

His work has been displayed in dedicated shows across the world and he is a recipient of the AIGA, which is renowned as the design profession’s highest accolade. Since establishing his own studio, he has created campaigns for some of the world’s leading consumer brands including Nike, Levi, Pepsi and Ray Ban and he was among only two graphic designers selected by Apple as part of its iconic ‘30 most innovative users’ list.

Concept No. 3 is the latest project in a wider collaboration between The Macallan and David Carson, who produced a festive campaign for the brand last year.

To bring his unique perspective to the design of Concept No. 3, David visited The Macallan’s 485-acre Estate in Scotland’s Speyside where he spent time with The Macallan Whisky Maker Polly Logan.

They discovered that a remarkable number of similarities define their approach to their respective crafts. Both are driven to revisit and evolve their work, creating greater depth by ensuring every element in their creations has a distinct purpose.

As a result, his unique, handmade collage designs for Concept No. 3 feature some very special touches to celebrate their shared outlook and methodology – including the incorporation of the letter P for Polly. Many of the colours used are also those found at The Macallan Estate on Scotland’s Speyside, with blue representing the River Spey and red reflecting The Macallan’s sherry-seasoned oak casks.

Polly, in turn, has drawn influence from David’s character and career when crafting Concept No. 3, to create an unusually fresh whisky, with a distinctive warm, golden hue that pays tribute to the graphic designer’s years on the USA’s West Coast.

The ABV was developed specifically to be 40.8%, after the pair realised that eight is their favourite number.

David Carson said: “In some of The Macallan work, I very noticeably got into what I call ‘my zone’, where I was just clicking. It was all coming together so I’m not aware of time, or even where I am.

“The Macallan people I’ve dealt with have been so open to exploring new ideas and to different types of creativity. Their obvious love for nature and where they work, the hand-doneness and the wooden casks – you have so much of that with The Macallan collaboration and I am very proud of it.”

The Macallan Whisky Maker Polly Logan said: “It’s been an absolute joy to work with David Carson on the creation of Concept No. 3. I was deeply inspired by his vibrancy, and drew on this to create a bright, fresh whisky. Its pale yellow colour, which we’ve named Californian Gold, reflects David’s sun-soaked days as a surfer and it also reveals the citrus notes which shine through.

“Whisky and art fans alike will appreciate the fine balance achieved in this wonderfully uplifting expression, combining fruity notes of pear with warming cinnamon spice and a creamy, vanilla sweetness.”

Concept No. 3 has been carefully crafted to deliver complexity from predominantly first fill sherry seasoned American oak casks that deliver a sweetness and spice, enhanced by a selection of European oak casks to add depth and richness. Balance and freshness are achieved by specially selected refill and virgin oak casks.

Encased in a striking presentation box featuring David Carson’s designs for Concept No. 3, each bottle also features labelling designed by David along with a vibrant chevron symbol bearing his signature.

The Macallan’s collaboration with David Carson marks the end of the Concept Series. Concept No. 1, released in 2017, was inspired by the discipline of surreal art. Concept No. 2 brought together music and whisky, combining the twin passions of The Macallan Whisky Maker Steven Bremner, who is also a DJ.

A global travel retail exclusive, Concept No. 3 will be available from July 2021 at The Macallan Boutiques in selected international airports and China Hainan Island duty free shops, before being introduced more widely to global travel retail hubs from August 2021.

For further information, visit www.themacallan.com.

Whisky Maker’s Notes:

ABV: 40.8%

Colour: Californian Gold

Aroma: Sweet fresh pear and apricot, gentle oak spice, with warm cinnamon and ginger, followed by vanilla and sweet citrus

Palate: Fresh apple and pear combine with oak spice and delicate herbal notes, leading to a rich creamy vanilla sweetness

Finish: Medium sweetness with smooth, buttery pastry notes

Notes 

About The Macallan

Founded in 1824, The Macallan is renowned worldwide for its extraordinary single malt whiskies. Their outstanding quality and distinctive character reveal the uncompromised excellence pursued by The Macallan since it was established by Alexander Reid, on a plateau above the River Spey in north-east Scotland.

In 2018, The Macallan opened a new chapter in its history with the launch of its award-winning Speyside distillery. Designed by internationally acclaimed architects to promote sustainability, the building takes inspiration from the surrounding ancient Scottish hills. It stands nearby Easter Elchies House, the Highland Manor built in 1700 which is The Macallan’s spiritual home and remains the heartbeat of The Macallan’s beautiful 485-acre Estate.

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Grand Opening of Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience

Renaming, opening of state-of-the-art visitor center in Bardstown, Ky. commemorated by official proclamation of “National Bourbon Day” in Kentucky by Gov. Andy Beshear

First opened on October 15, 2004 as the Bourbon Heritage Center under the guidance of the late Harry Shapira, Heaven Hill’s presence as one of the first visitor centers on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail has played an instrumental role in establishing Kentucky as a top tourist destination. The new Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience triples the previous footprint with more than 30,000 square feet, capable of welcoming over 900 American Whiskey enthusiasts or newcomers at any given time to witness history brought to life. From the 85-year history of Heaven Hill Distillery as nurturers of America’s spirit to the quintessential American success story of the Shapira family, the full breadth of whiskey splendor is on display including a new product unique to the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience and select Kentucky retailers. Five Brothers Bourbon is a small batch blending of five ages of Bourbon ranging from five- to nine-years-old, paying homage to the courage, dedication and solidarity of the five Shapira brothers who started it all in 1935 (more details to be released later this week). The new experience also added 13 new staff positions to ensure every guest receives that quality experience for which Heaven Hill is known.BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Distillery today celebrated the grand opening of the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, Ky. The expansion, renovation and renaming are the culmination of a multi-year $125 million investment in Kentucky’s signature industry and model for the future of tourism since 2018. The state-of-the-art visitor center received a $19 million upgrade to become an interactive, educational space offering signature exhibits unique to the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience. Heaven Hill also invested $106 million across American Whiskey production including new barrel warehousing, bottling line and equipment upgrades, increased holdings of Bourbon Whiskey, and distillery enhancements. Heaven Hill President Max L. Shapira and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear presided over the ribbon cutting to commemorate the occasion, silhouetted against the new 1935 distillery replica exterior. Gov. Beshear also presented Shapira and Kentucky Distillers’ Association President Eric Gregory with a proclamation to henceforth name June 14 as “National Bourbon Day” in Kentucky.

“In the heart of Bourbon country, we welcome fans back to experience America’s Native Spirit, immerse themselves in the long history of Heaven Hill, and learn about the award-winning portfolio of storied brands now told on these walls,” said Heaven Hill President Max L. Shapira. “We honor the vision held by my father and his four brothers, celebrating the people who built the foundation upon which we stand today. The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is an innovative, state-of-the-art tourism model, grounded in history, and developed to entice fans for generations to come.”

Breaking ground in November 2018 in partnership with Solid Light and Abel Construction, Heaven Hill first unveiled the renovation phase of the new experience in November 2019 featuring three beautiful tasting rooms, each representing a pivotal Heaven Hill brand or story. Positioned around a larger-than-life barrel, the iconic tasting rooms overlook Heaven Hill’s main campus of rickhouses for spectacular views of Bourbon country. Prior to completing their designated tours, guests will join their bourbon host in the barrel for a wide-screen video about how barrels are made and their importance to the bourbon production process.

“I am proud to be in the heart of bourbon country to proclaim today National Kentucky Bourbon Day and I am thrilled to be here to congratulate the Shapira family and the Heaven Hill team on another successful project investing millions in Kentucky and our people,” Gov. Beshear said at the grand opening. “As we emerge from this pandemic with our economy booming, we are announcing more jobs and investment in the commonwealth every week, and the bourbon industry is no exception. This state-of-the-art visitor center will give people one more great reason to visit Kentucky and experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, creating even more jobs and opportunity.”

The innovative exhibits at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience offer an in-depth perspective not yet told on the Bourbon Trail, as a multi-sensory showcase of stories weaves the key turning points in history that brought to bear the legendary brands on the market today.

• The “You Do Bourbon” immersive space invites guests into a classroom style tasting room where a host will guide them through a tasting of unique products. To commemorate their visit, they will have the opportunity to bottle their favorite Bourbon or whiskey from their tasting through the custom-designed filling machines, apply the label and personalize it in the adjacent Bottling Room. Finally, guests will experience a day in the life of a quality technician in the You Do Bourbon lab. Quality technicians ensure the consistency, quality, and integrity of all Heaven Hill products. Step into their shoes, inspecting through microscopes, gauging the proof of whiskey, and testing your sense of smell at the nosing station. At any given time, there will be three to four mashbills available to choose from: Heaven Hill Bourbon, Heaven Hill Wheat Whiskey, Heaven Hill Wheated Bourbon, and a fourth option on rotation. Guests will be able to select a commemorative mashbill and label in honor of the grand opening while supplies last.
• The 1935 Distillery Theater invites up to 40 guests to experience an immersive 11-minute show put on display by seven custom screens that fly in and out using DMX technology at various moments throughout the story of the Shapira family and Heaven Hill Distillery. The high-speed roll down system is equipped with vinyl mesh so the theatrical lighting system can bring the full show to life with special effects lights and custom panel lights designed to look like the windows of the original 1935 Distillery. The projection system consists of three Panasonic projectors that showcase a seamless display just shy of a true 4K resolution. With the addition of 5.1 surround sound audio, the visitor is truly immersed into the story of Heaven Hill.
• After walking through the Family Gallery, which details important people behind Heaven Hill’s rise within distilled spirits, visitors will enter three new self-guided, interactive exhibition spaces dedicated to integral players and movements within American Whiskey:
  • The Elijah Craig exhibit immediately immerses guests in a charred barrel, the “Father of Bourbon’s” claim to fame. Walls made of charred oak, curved in a barrel shape, enclose a fabricated ring of fire where guests can learn how the char on the inside of a barrel affects the aging process and flavor development of a whiskey and understand the nuances of each product in the Elijah Craig family.
  • The Larceny space takes guests behind lock and key into Treasury Agent John E. Fitzgerald’s room where he kept the registry comprised of his “Fitzgerald” barrels. Guests are invited to learn how to properly thieve whiskey from a barrel, interact with talking decanters detailing Fitzgerald’s ability to choose only the best barrels, and understand the key differences between Wheated Bourbon, like Larceny, and Rye Bourbon.
  • The Bottled-in-Bond exhibit showcases Heaven Hill Distillery’s leading portfolio of bonded products, the most available on the market today. The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 was an important turning point in the history of Bourbon as exacting standards set forth offered consumers a guarantee of quality and transparency. Today, this designation continues to offer those same guarantees, which guests will take a deep dive into through the exhibit.
• The new Five Brothers Bar & Kitchen located on the second floor boasts an upscale, approximately 25-foot bar fully equipped to serve craft cocktails and Bourbon tastings, a lounge area and dining space for the soon-to-be-opened restaurant. Guests can also take their cocktails to the rooftop area connected to the lounge space to enjoy views of Heaven Hill’s rickhouses. Tucked in the corner of the lounge is the unicorn case, where rare, historic bottles seldom available today and other Kentucky Bourbon artifacts will be on display. Just off the bar, the Generation Loft is the space perfect for corporate meetings, intimate dinners, and small celebrations.
• Guests are welcomed onto the Heaven Hill campus by several rickhouses, filled with up to 52,000 barrels each. The exterior of the new visitor center showcases a replica of how the distillery looked in 1935, an authentic, vintage barrel truck representative of what the Shapira brothers may have driven in the 1940s, and an updated sign celebrating the new name. The newest rickhouse on site features a bird’s eye view into the resting barrels with a glass window corner spanning the seven floors and new Heaven Hill sign. The new rickhouse will host single barrel selections and accommodate future tours soon to be launched at Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience.

The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, which officially open its doors to the public at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 15, will be open Mondays through Thursdays from 11:00 am to 6:00 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Five Brothers Bar will be open for cocktails Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tour reservations can be made online here and initial tour offerings will include:

• Magic of the Mashbill: Heaven Hill is the only heritage distillery that features every major category of American Whiskey – and it all begins with the grain. Guests will enjoy five nationally acclaimed American Whiskeys, each from a different mashbill, in one of the iconic tasting rooms. Learn about both the fascinating history of Bourbon as well as the story behind Heaven Hill Distillery, family owned and operated since 1935 in the 1935 Distillery Theater. Immerse yourself in Bourbon history through the educational, self-guided galleries. The Magic of the Mashbill is a 45-minute tasting offered daily on the hour and costs $15.00.
• Whiskey Connoisseur: A Bourbon Host will discuss the unique characteristics of five of Heaven Hill’s premium or limited release American Whiskeys, focusing on the color, aroma, taste and finish. Learn about both the fascinating history of Bourbon as well as the story behind Heaven Hill Distillery, family owned and operated since 1935 in the 1935 Distillery Theater. Immerse yourself in Bourbon history through the educational, self-guided galleries. The Whiskey Connoisseur experience is a 45-minute tasting offered daily on the half hour and costs $20.00.
• You Do Bourbon: As previously mentioned, the You Do Bourbon invites guests for a hands-on lab experience as they learn mashbills, bottling, labeling and quality control. The one-hour experience costs $40, which does not include the price of the personalized bottle. A donation of $5 per bottle will be made to a rotating charitable cause, with Bernheim Forest receiving the donations for the first six months. The You Do Bourbon tour will be open for reservations at the beginning of July.

Heaven Hill’s investment in the future of American Whiskey is also focused on the communities that lift up the industry. Bernheim Forest Executive Director Dr. Mark Wourms joined Shapira and Gov. Beshear on stage to celebrate Heaven Hill’s corporate partnership with Bernheim, as well as the commitment to donate $5 per bottle from the “You Do Bourbon” experience to Bernheim Forest for six months up to $10,000. Heaven Hill previously committed $10,000 to the new Rites of Passage program at Bernheim, which includes immersive experiences in nature as part of nurturing a new generation of young Black men and women during a critical phase of development.

The former Bourbon Heritage Center is a multiple past winner of Whisky Magazine’s “Visitor Attraction of the Year” award at the magazine’s annual “Icons of Whisky” Awards, consistently ranked as one of the top tours in the Bardstown area, drawing 60,000 visitors per year. In Louisville, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is dedicated to the story of Kentucky’s First Distiller and the world’s 2nd largest Bourbon brand also under the Heaven Hill Distillery umbrella, Evan Williams. Typically hosting 100,000 visitors annually, it was the first distillery back on Whiskey Row in Downtown Louisville. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail (www.kybourbontrail.com), takes visitors through the heart of the Bluegrass and a stop in on the state’s distilleries. More than 1.3 million people visited the Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries in 2019, with 38+ tourism experience across the state.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.8 million barrels aging in 63 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky, Parker’s Heritage Collection, and Old Fitzgerald along with its extensive Bottled-in-Bond label collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, the second Whisky of the Year for Heaven Hill Distillery in the past four years. In 2019 Heaven Hill Distillery was named San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year. For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

New Glencairn Pipette – the perfect partner

for the Glencairn Glass

Scottish crystal company, Glencairn Crystal Studio, creator of the world’s favourite whisky glass, the Glencairn Glass, is launching a new Glencairn Pipette this week for whisky-lovers to add a splash of water to their dram.

As makers of the world’s best-selling whisky glass, now selling over 3.5 million Glencairn Glasses around the world per year, the family run team at Glencairn Crystal know that adding water to whisky can enhance the flavours and aromas found in your favourite dram.

Over the years customers who enjoy a drop of water with their whisky have often told the Glencairn Crystal team that they would relish a pipette to match their Glencairn Glass. It is for this demand that the Glencairn Pipette has been carefully crafted to complement the Glencairn Glass.

The handblown glass Glencairn Pipette is designed to be the ideal length for the Glencairn Glass and holds 1ml of water. Weighted at the top with a beautiful miniature Glencairn Glass, the pipette is fashioned to be comfortable in the hand, whilst allowing better regulation of the amount of water added, with its precisely engineered control-aperture set within a wide bulb at the upper end.

Whether one adds water to whisky or not is up to individual whisky drinkers’ tastes, however many whisky lovers believe that adding water can ‘open up’ the aromas and flavours, dramatically altering and enhancing the taste – interestingly scientists in Sweden supported this with a study in 2017.*

Scott Davidson, Glencairn Crystal’s New Product Development Director, commented: “Our business is built on family values and we pride ourselves on our strong relationship with the Glencairn Glass community of followers. We are always open to feedback and new ideas and after listening to our customers, we are delighted to introduce the new Glencairn Pipette as the perfect partner to the Glencairn Glass. For those who love a splash of water with their whisky, our pipette will enable the drinker to add a little drop at a time and will prevent the risk of drowning their favourite dram with too much!”

The Glencairn Pipette costs £6 and is also available to buy in a set with a Glencairn Glass (£11) or in a set with both a Glencairn Glass and Glencairn Jug (£22) via the Glencairn Crystal online shop.

This year marks the 40^th birthday of Glencairn Crystal Studio.  Founded by Raymond Davidson in 1981, the company is not only synonymous with the famous Glencairn Glass, but has also become a world expert in the design, creation and manufacture of high-end crystal and glassware decanters, often for the worlds’ rarest and most exclusive spirits.

For further information about the new Glencairn Pipette please visit: www.glencairnpipette.com  and to learn more about Glencairn Crystal’s 40^th birthday and its most successful and pioneering decanters please visit: www.glencairn.co.uk/40th-birthday.

Notes:

The Glencairn Pipette:

• *Why whisky tastes better with water – study by scientists in Sweden. See link here
• For those new to using a pipette, simply dip it into a glass or jug of water, cover the tiny hole at the top to hold the water inside and then gradually uncover the hole to release one drop at a time into your whisky.
• The Glencairn Pipette can be personalised but only on a minimum order quantity of 5000.

About Glencairn Crystal:

• The Glencairn Glass, created in 2000 is the world’s favourite whisky glass.  Glencairn Crystal now make over 3.5 million Glencairn Glasses per year, across hundreds of brands, distributed to over 140 countries worldwide.
• The company has won three Queen’s Awards – one of the highest awards in British business – starting with the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2006 for the Glencairn whisky glass and then the Queens Award for Enterprise in 2012 and 2017.
• Glencairn Crystal’s clients include leading drinks companies such as Brown-Forman, Diageo and Pernod Ricard as well as sporting organisations including the world famous premier clubs; Liverpool, Celtic and Rangers. Also organisations including Muller, Cunard, Facebook and Google, plus corporate clients including the Houses of Parliament and Scottish Parliament.