Southern Comfort Black Named Double Gold Medalist at 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition 

NEW ORLEANS, lA.  (May 25, 2021) –Southern Comfort Black was recently awarded a Double Gold Medal at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. A complement to Southern Comfort Original, Southern Comfort Black was originally introduced by Sazerac in 2019 to offer fans a more robust, whiskey-forward profile.

Southern Comfort Black competed in the taste category and won judges over with its subtle spice and fruity accents, standing out amongst 3,500 other top-quality entries from all corners of the world. The Double Gold Medal signifies that Southern Comfort Black received Gold medal ratings from every member on the judging panel during the judging process.

“Each year the San Francisco World Spirits Competition gets more and more recognition across our industry and attracts top-notch brands to enter and compete amongst each other. We are both honored and humbled to receive a Double Gold medal for Southern Comfort Black, and hope this recognition will encourage new and existing consumers to experience our whiskey in their favorite cocktail recipes,” said Tiffany Wilburn, brand director at Sazerac Company, Inc.

For more information on the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, visit sfspiritscomp.com.

Plus, stay up to date on the latest from Southern Comfort by visiting www.southerncomfort.com

or following Southern Comfort on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Sazerac

Sazerac is one of America’s oldest family owned, privately held distillers with operations in the United States in Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Virginia, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maryland, California, and global operations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, India, Australia and Canada. For more information on Sazerac visit https://www.sazerac.com/

M&H DISTILLERY LAUNCHES APEX SERIES,

A NEW LINE OF LIMITED-EDITION WHISKIES 

The Apex Series is the most coveted release of the company’s portfolio, representing the best of both M&H Distillery’s old and new world whisky making techniques

Tel Aviv – May 2021: M&H Distillery, Israel’s first whisky distillery, is proud to launch the Apex Series, an ongoing series of small-batch whiskies. For the inaugural release, M&H Distillery has unveiled four expressions from different unique cask types: Pomegranate Wine Cask, Chardonnay White Wine Cask,  French Limousin Cognac Cask and Fortified Red wine Cask.

This past year’s successful launch of M&H’s first core range of single malt whiskies resulted in prestigious honors including “Craft Producer of the Year” in Whisky Magazine’s 2021 Icons of Whisky (Rest of World) and Whisky Advocate’s “Top 20 Whiskies of the Year 2020” for the Classic Edition.

The Apex Series come to reinforce M&H’s continued commitment to experimentation and innovation without compromising craftsmanship and tradition. Matured under the unique Mediterranean climate at the Tel Aviv-based distillery and crafted by Head Distiller Tomer Goren, the Apex Series is the result of years of meticulous experimentation with special casks and celebrates Israel’s forward-thinking ingenuity, rich terroir and unique climate.

Apex’s first series includes a local Chardonnay Wine Cask from the renowned Castel Winery which brings forward earthy and grassy flavors; a Pomegranate Wine Cask, the first and only single malt whisky in the world aged in a rare variety of pomegranate wine casks, that was already awarded Category Winner at World Whiskies Awards 2021. The third offering, Cognac Cask, comes to reveal the finest flavors of French Limousin oak casks, and the last batch showcases a single malt whisky aged in a Fortified Red Wine cask.

The Apex Series is a great opportunity for us to showcase our innovative and out-of-the-box approach”, said M&H Head Distiller, Tomer Goren. “Along with maintaining the standards of the traditional industry, we are always looking for ways to express our creativity and show the world the uniqueness of whisky making in Israel. 

The Apex collection, starting with the pomegranate and chardonnay wine casks whiskies, will be available from this month in limited quantities at select specialist whisky stores and e-commerce platforms. The cognac and fortified red wine casks whiskies will be available from June 2021.

The first markets to receive the Apex Series include the Netherlands, Germany, France, UK and the U.S.

For more information on M&H Distillery, please visit www.mhdistillery.com

About M&H Distillery: M&H Distillery (Milk & Honey), established by entrepreneur and investor Gal Kalkstein, is Israel’s first whisky distillery and produces high-quality distillates. All raw materials, equipment, casks and processes were selected to ensure that the final product – whether white distillates or aged whisky – meets the highest quality standards. M&H Distillery received guidance and advice from Dr. Jim Swan, a world-renowned master distiller. All the products of the distillery are kosher.

PIONEERING HOLYROOD DISTILLERY HOLD CHARITY AUCTION OF THREE COLLECTABLE CASKS

THE THREE CASKS UP FOR AUCTION ARE TOTALLY UNIQUE FROM HOLYROOD DISTILLERY’S PUBLIC CASK PROGRAMME MAKING EACH A VALUABLE COLLECTOR’S ITEM

Holyrood Distillery, Edinburgh’s first single malt distillery in almost a century, has partnered with Whisky Auctioneer to offer three “extra special” whisky casks up for charity auction.

Matured in ex-bourbon barrels, this is an excellent opportunity for whisky enthusiasts to get their hands on three rare casks as they are completely distinctive from Holyrood Distillery’s current ‘Made by Edinburgh’ cask programme, which is offered exclusively in a selection of sherry casks.

The casks will be auctioned by renowned spirits bidding platform Whisky Auctioneer with the auction running from Friday 28th May until Monday 7th June giving whisky lovers a unique opportunity to own a piece of Edinburgh whisky history: https://discover.whiskyauctioneer.com/holyrood-charity-auction

All proceeds from the sale of the casks will be split between Edinburgh charities Vintage Vibes, tackling social isolation in the community; Edinburgh Food Project, a local food bank charity; and The Drinks  Trust’s covid relief fund for the hospitality industry.

Whisky Auctioneer has agreed to waive selling fees and will donate the 10% buyer’s commission to the total hammer price raised for the three charities.

Each 200 litre cask will be filled with ‘Made by Edinburgh’ new make spirit, at an ABV of 60% and matured in a first-fill American ex-bourbon barrel.

As the public ‘Made by Edinburgh’ cask offering comes exclusively in a selection of sherry casks, the ex-bourbon maturation makes the charity auction casks a truly unique collectable. Having been distilled using single-origin barley from a Lothian-based farm and a proportion of crystal and chocolate malt, the casks offer full traceability from field to barrel.

A proprietary mash bill containing roasted and specialty grains and single estate Lothian farm barley, fermented with the iconic “Edinburgh Ale yeast” combine to create an entirely new spirit style, worthy of the city that inspires Holyrood Distillery.

With all auction proceeds flowing directly into three important local causes, the auction offers an exciting opportunity for whisky fans to get hold of these iconic casks, as well as the spirit of giving.

Commenting on the charity cask auction, David Robertson, Co-Founder of Holyrood Distillery said: “As Edinburgh’s first single malt distillery in nearly a century, we wanted to shine a spotlight on Edinburgh’s amazing whisky heritage.

We’ve created a spirit that echoes what would have been done 100 years ago; using locally sourced barley and beer yeast from an Edinburgh brewery, filled into three extra special ex-bourbon casks.

“It was essential for us that we supported local Edinburgh charities, our whisky is made by local people and inspired by the city we’re in, so it was paramount to ensure that communities close to the heart of our distillery are supported during this time.”

Adding his thoughts, Joe Wilson, Head of Auction Content at Whisky Auctioneer said: “It’s a privilege to partner with Holyrood Distillery to bring these casks to auction in order to support some incredible charitable organisations.

The sale presents the very unique opportunity for our global customer base to acquire a piece of liquid history from this trailblazing Edinburgh distillery, whilst giving back to the local community.”

“Holyrood is a vibrant new distillery that will produce Edinburgh’s first malt whisky for nearly 100 years, so we are sure that this auction will inspire a huge amount of interest around the globe.”

During lockdown, Holyrood announced its ‘Made by Edinburgh’ cask programme; an opportunity for members of the public to purchase a piece of Edinburgh’s distilling future.

Strong demand has validated Holyrood’s position as a versatile and creative distillery, with The ‘Made by Edinburgh’ casks representing Holyrood’s passionate homage to the distilling history of Scotland’s capital city.

The prospect of owning a piece of liquid history has resonated with whisky enthusiasts worldwide, and now the founders want to give back to the community that inspires the distillery and spirit.

Co-founded by Canadian Rob Carpenter and Scottish whisky Yoda, David Robertson, Holyrood Distillery is the first single malt distillery to operate in Edinburgh in almost a century. Unfettered by tradition, the distillery is forging its own path in the creation of its whisky, using speciality malts and a variety of different yeasts.

T: @HolyroodWhisky

I: @holyrooddistillery

F: @holyrooddistillery

Notes:

About Holyrood Distillery

Holyrood Distillery (www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk)

• Holyrood Distillery is the first single malt whisky distillery in the heart of historic Edinburgh for almost 100 years. The last working distillery in the capital was Andrew Usher’s Edinburgh Distillery (aka Glen Sciennes) which closed in 1925.
• Holyrood Distillery was founded by Canadian couple, Rob and Kelly Carpenter and Scot, David Robertson. Rob co-founded the Canadian branch of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society with wife Kelly, while David has 25 years experience in the industry with The Macallan and The Dalmore, as well as co-founding Rare Whisky 101.
• As well as distilling single malt whisky, Holyrood Distillery produces gin on its specially designed gin still.
• The distillery, which is located in the heart of Edinburgh, features a 5-star brand home and shop
• Holyrood is a modern distillery, inspired by the city of Edinburgh and never afraid to experiment. With considerable experience in the whisky industry, the founders had a vision to create a new kind of distillery, to reflect the dynamism and diversity of Edinburgh.
• Holyrood Distillery, 19 St Leonard’s Lane, Edinburgh EH8 9SH. T: 0131 285 8977

About Holyrood Distillery ‘Made by Edinburgh’ cask offering:
This is a limited opportunity to be a part of the Holyrood story. We have decided to offer purchasers their choice of an incredible selection of 250 L Spanish oak sherry hogsheads which have been specially seasoned with different types of sherry. These casks will deliver spice aromas and flavours of cloves, cinnamon and ginger, while each individual variety of sherry allows purchasers to tailor the subtle nuances of flavour to their personal preference and complement the tropical and green fruits, and rich, dark undertones in the fledgeling spirit. Including a choice from six Spanish oak sherry casks, 10 years maturation of your chosen cask, invitations to all cask owners events. To discover more, or register your interest, please get in touch: casks@holyrooddistillery.co.uk

About Whisky Auctioneer:
Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at auction. Founded in 2013 and located in Perth, Whisky Auctioneer utilises its expertise and knowledge combined with its auction platform, to increase interest and passion in the whisky and spirits community: https://whiskyauctioneer.com/
Twitter: @Whisky_auction
I: @whiskyauctioneer
Facebook: @WhiskyAuctioneer

About The Drinks Trust:
The Drinks Trust is the community organisation for the drinks industry, offering support and services to help its community thrive, to upskill, to broaden their knowledge, to network and learn from one another. It will also be there to support them in challenging times, with wellbeing and financial assistance. https://www.drinkstrust.org.uk/

About Vintage Vibes:

Vintage Vibes is an award-winning project tackling isolation and loneliness in Edinburgh. The project, a partnership between LifeCare Edinburgh and Space & Broomhouse Hub, started in 2015 as a fresh new way to combat isolation and loneliness among over 60s (called VIPs) in Edinburgh. Vintage Vibes creates long-lasting one-to-one friendships offering support, companionship and the opportunity for lonely VIPs to be more socially connected and active in their local community. https://vintagevibes.org.uk/

About Edinburgh Food Project:
Edinburgh Food Project was founded in 2012 to tackle food poverty in Edinburgh. Affiliated with the Trussell Trust and Community Money Advice, Edinburgh Food Project provide emergency food supplies and support to people in crisis, by operating eight foodbank centres which provide emergency food supplies and their; More Than Food, Money Advice and Mental Health & Wellbeing Project to help address the underlying causes of food poverty. https://edinburghfoodproject.org/

info@edinburghfoodproject.org
Twitter: @Edinfoodprject
Instagram: @Edinfoodproject
Facebook: @Edinfoodproject

Heaven’s Door Whiskey™ and Redbreast Irish Whiskey® Announce First Ever Collaboration:

The Master Blenders’ Edition

A Tribute to American and Irish Artistry

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 19, 2021 – Heaven’s Door Whiskey™, Bob Dylan’s evolving collection of American whiskeys, and Redbreast Irish Whiskey®, the world renowned Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, proudly announce the release of a limited-edition 10-Year Aged Bourbon finished in Redbreast casks. This first ever collaboration for both brands was created in tandem by Master Blenders, Ryan Perry of Heaven’s Door and Billy Leighton of Redbreast Irish Whiskey, and has been aptly named, “The Master Blenders’ Edition.” Marrying the best of American and Irish whiskey, The Master Blenders’ Edition has already been awarded a Double Gold medal in a blind tasting in the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

A collaboration more than two years in the making, Perry and Leighton worked together on a multitude of blends and barrel finishes to arrive at their final whiskey profile. As a lover of Irish Whiskey and of Redbreast in particular, Heaven’s Door Founder, Bob Dylan, worked closely with the Master Blenders and sampled over a dozen blends before settling on the final selection. “Mr. Dylan is a perfectionist and knows his whiskey,” said Billy Leighton. “His engagement and enthusiasm for this collaboration made this project even more special.”

The Master Blenders’ Edition features Heaven’s Door 10-year aged Straight Bourbon finished in Redbreast’s signature Single Pot Still Casks for 15 months, extracting flavor from single pot Irish whiskey and formerly Spanish sherry. The end result is a taste profile unlike any American whiskey and delivers prominent notes of nuts, spice and leather, as well as the influence of sherry, citrus, dark fruit, and a subtle sweetness of Yellow Man from the Redbreast casks.

“We’re honored to have had the opportunity to work with Billy and the rest of the Redbreast team to bring The Master Blenders’ Edition to life,” said Ryan Perry. “Heaven’s Door was founded around the spirit of collaboration, and this was a dream partnership for our brand. I can honestly say that the final flavor profile blew us away.”

“The Master Blenders’ Edition allows both the American and Irish Whiskey distilling traditions to shine through,” said Billy Leighton, Redbreast Irish Whiskey’s Master Blender. “We think fans of Redbreast, Heaven’s Door, and whiskey enthusiasts everywhere will be delighted with what they taste with this product.”

The Master Blenders’ Edition is offered in Heaven’s Door’s signature bottle, featuring a new gate design created by Bob Dylan in his Black Buffalo Ironworks studio, as well as Redbreast’s iconic Robin. Available in very limited quantities on ReserveBar.com and at select retailers, The Master Blenders’ Edition is being released in the U.S. just in time for Father’s Day. It will also be available in limited quantities in September in the UK and Ireland. With a suggested retail price (SRP) of $99.99 for a 750ml bottle and a single limited bottling, once this release is gone, it is gone for good.

The Master Blenders’ Edition is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks or with a splash of water and features the following characteristics:

• Age: 10 Years
• Proof: 100
• ABV: 50%
• Nose: Full and complex body with notes of red apples, figs and dates
• Palate: Marzipan and walnut with buttery ground nut sweetness, raisin, and nougat
• Finish: Delicate with a touch of honey and coconut and subtle sweetness from Irish honeycomb

The Heaven’s Door portfolio of whiskeys includes Straight Bourbon Whiskey (92 proof, $49.99 SRP), Double Barrel Whiskey (100 proof, $49.99 SRP), and Straight Rye Whiskey finished in cigar barrels from Vosges, France (92 proof, $79.99 SRP), as well as various limited time offerings, including the annual Bootleg Series of rare whiskeys. First introduced in 2018 to wide acclaim, Heaven’s Door is an ever-evolving line of handcrafted whiskeys which are the perfect melding of art and craft, as each bottle features Dylan’s unique ironwork sculptures.

Heaven’s Door’s portfolio of whiskeys is available nationwide and online via Reservebar.com/collections/heavens-door, and globally in Canada, Germany and the U.K.. For more information about the brand visit www.heavensdoor.com or engage with the brand on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

The Redbreast portfolio of Single Pot Still Irish whiskeys includes Redbreast 12 Year Old, the definitive Redbreast expression matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks ($70), also available in Cask Strength ($90), Redbreast 15 Year Old ($120), Redbreast 21 Year Old ($230), Redbreast 27 Year Old which includes whiskey matured in ruby port casks ($500) and Redbreast Lustau Edition born from a unique collaboration between the Bodegas Lustau and Midleton Distillery ($85).

About Heaven’s Door Whiskey

Heaven’s Door Spirits is a collaboration between legendary artist Bob Dylan and Spirits Investment Partnership (“SIP”). Heaven’s Door Spirits is Bob Dylan’s first and only consumer brand partnership in his 50 years as a worldwide cultural icon, which makes this collaboration unique and important – a true interplay of art, craft and commerce. Website: www.heavensdoor.com. 

About Spirits Investment Partners:

Spirits Investment Partners (“SIP”) is a boutique spirits innovation company comprised of a team of highly seasoned spirits professionals with expertise in new product development, branding, global sales and distributor management,  strategic marketing, fundraising, and finance.

About Redbreast Irish Whiskey

For more than a century, Redbreast has stayed true to the single pot still whiskey making tradition and today is considered to be the definitive expression of this quintessential style of Irish whiskey. Crafted by Master Blender, Billy Leighton, at Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Redbreast offers a rich, full-bodied flavour profile with a signature sherry influence, and is growing in popularity in key Irish whiskey markets around the world including the US, UK and Ireland. The most-awarded single pot still Irish whiskey range in the world demonstrates a clear commitment to age, quality and innovation in Irish whiskey, and features; Redbreast 12 Year Old, 12 Year Old Cask Strength, 15 Year Old, 21 Year Old and 27 Year Old; Redbreast Lustau; and limited editions such as Redbreast Dream Cask.

www.redbreastwhiskey.com

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.

ONE OF SCOTLAND’S OLDEST WHISKY FAMILIES LAUNCH CAREFULLY CURATED PORTFOLIO

Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers release range of whiskies

Thursday 20TH May 2021, Aberargie, Scotland – Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers have launched their awaited portfolio of brands which include a wide variety of unique and exceptional casks from pedigree distilleries across Scotland. Since coming under sole ownership of Brian and Jamie Morrison last year, Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers (formerly Morrison and Mackay) have completely refined their portfolio.

The Morrison family can trace their involvement in the whisky business for over five generations. This includes Brian’s grandfather, William Walker a pre-eminent whisky broker of his era and was succeeded by Brian’s father, Stanley P. Morrison. Stanley cemented the family’s roots in the industry when he purchased Islay’s oldest distillery — Bowmore, which Brian would later become managing director of before its sale to Suntory. In their new venture the family are committed to continuing to impart the knowledge that has been passed down to them from generations of whisky makers.

THE PORTFOLIO

Mac-Talla – Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
A taste journey across Islay, from Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers
Current Expressions: Terra and Mara
Upcoming: Strata launching May 2021
RRP: £42 – £58

Old Perth – Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
The finest sherry-matured whiskies, specially selected to honour the birthplace of blending
Current Expressions: The Original and Cask Strength
Upcoming: Aged Collection launching autumn 2021
RRP: £32 – £45

Càrn Mòr – Single Malt Scotch Whisky
As close to drinking straight from the cask as you can get
Current Expressions: Strictly Limited and Celebration of the Cask
Upcoming: Family Reserve launching autumn 2021
Prices from £47

Jamie Morrison, Chairman of Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers says: “As one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families, we can trace our involvement in the whisky business back five generations where we have held almost every role possible in the industry including licensed grocers, brokers, blenders, bottlers and distillers”.

Jamie further comments, “In the coming years we will release Aberargie Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Distilled in our purpose-built facility in Aberargie, just outside Perth, its release will mark the return to distilling after nearly 25 years for my Father and I”.

The distillers next launch will be from their Mac-Talla range. Strata is a 15-year-old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky and as the rocks Islay stands on. Strata has a velvety texture with earthy is complex and layered peat and winter spices, making it rich and warming with a lovely smoky  finish.

Available from late May 2021.

www.morrisondistillers.com

Jamie Morrison, Chairman of Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers says: “As one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families, we can trace our involvement in the whisky business back five generations where we have held almost every role possible in the industry including licensed grocers, brokers, blenders, bottlers and distillers”.

Jamie further comments, “In the coming years we will release Aberargie Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Distilled in our purpose-built facility in Aberargie, just outside Perth, its release will mark the return to distilling after nearly 25 years for my Father and I”.

The distillers next launch will be from their Mac-Talla range. Strata is a 15-year-old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky and is complex and layered as the rocks Islay stands on. Strata has a velvety texture with earthy
peat and winter spices, making it rich and warming with a lovely smoky finish. Available from late May 2021. www.morrisondistillers.com

Mac-Talla is a range of Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from the Scottish island of Islay. Created by one of Scotland’s oldest whisky families, it is a journey across this weather-beaten island through the eyes of the Morrison family. Mac-Talla, meaning “echo” in Scottish Gaelic, perfectly reflects the taste journey that the Morrison family take you on as they demonstrate the multiple dimensions that come from this complex, untamed environment. The range boasts a variety of strength and maturation style including one age statement. Each expression is Non-Chill Filtered with No Colour Added. www.mactallawhisky.com

The Scottish city of Perth was historically the home of many a whisky company. It was the blending capital of the world where many great blended malts were created however as they moved away, Perth became the forgotten whisky city. Old Perth is a range of Blended Malt Scotch Whisky which will restore tradition by blending in Perth and exclusively using sherry matured malt from a selection of Scotland’s finest distilleries, located in the Glenlivet region of Speyside. www.oldperthwhisky.co.uk

The Càrn Mòr range is a selection of whiskies from single or limited casks, each with their own individual character and story. Where many distilleries strive for consistency across larger batches, Càrn Mòr is able to release unadulterated expressions from these distilleries using traditional methods meaning it is as close to drinking straight from the cask as possible. www.carnmorwhisky.co.uk

GreatDrams marks the easing of lockdown with Lockdown Lock-in special release – Available Now

For our second set of new releases for the year, we have mixed things up a little to have a range with an Islay single cask, a single grain from Strathclyde, a PX single cask from Craigellachie and a blended malt we have called The Lockdown Lock-in Dram. We always do our best to release totally different flavour profiles and to bring unique styles and production methods to consumers who otherwise would not be introduced to such gems, and this lineup is no different.

“Who, at the beginning of this decade, would have thought that whisky tastings would go virtual (and work really well!), that we would have no summer programme of events to see and pour our whisky for our awesome customers at. This whisky, The Lockdown Lock-in Dram, with its luscious notes of vanilla and honey is a smooth, easy-drinking blended malt whisky created to raise a glass to one another as we move through this challenging time and look forward to brighter times” – Greg Dillon, co-founder of GreatDrams.

As a company of two people, husband and wife duo Greg & Kirsty Dillon, we are able to be really nimble when it comes to what we do with our range, what we release and when we release new limited edition whiskies.

“This was all about doing something a bit different, maybe a bit quirky, but fundamentally the whisky is fantastic with so many layers and depth of flavours. Lockdown was hard for all of us in different ways, this is just our small way of marking this with a whisky to be shared, to bring a smile to those enjoying it and to remind ourselves of the journey we have all unexpectedly been on for the last fourteen months or so”.

THE GREATDRAMS SUBSCRIPTION HAS BEEN REVAMPED TOO

Named “Best Whisky Subscription for Exclusive Bottles” by IndyBest from The Independent… Are you looking to expand your whisky collection with some exclusives that cannot be bought in shops or even online? Looking for the ultimate present for the whisky lover in your life, the one who is always tremendously hard to buy for? Look no further than the GreatDrams Whisky Subscription, delivering bottles only available to subscribers every two months.

We utilise our knowledge, experience, skill and network to source members of The GreatDrams Subscription exclusive whisky bottlings from casks of ours that you simply cannot find anywhere else.

Each is selected by Greg & Kirsty for a variety of reasons; interesting flavour profile, unique cask maturation, interesting back story, rare distillery and many more. Our reasoning and journey to selecting each cask will be communicated with each bottle you receive.

Each subscription level includes a virtual whisky tasting for all subscribers every two months.

The full currently line up in the GreatDrams range is: 

THE LOCKDOWN LOCK-IN DRAM BLENDED MALT SCOTCH WHISKY
As featured in Mail+, this whisky, with its luscious notes of vanilla and honey is a smooth, easy-drinking blended malt whisky created to raise a glass to one another as we move through this challenging time and look forward to brighter times.

“We have already seen a lot of movement of this release in the gifting market as people look to buy something to mark the occasion when they get to dram together once again – or even for those who don’t know what to get the whisky lover in their life,” notes Greg, “it is already a crowd pleaser!”

Age: 12 Years Old     |     Cask: Ex-Bourbon casks     |     ABV: 48.2%     |     Only 500 bottles ever released

CRAIGELLACHIE 7 YEAR PX SHERRY CASK OLD
We love the Craigellachie Distillery, always have, always will, and this is a release driven by participants on our private virtual whisky tastings. Over 200 of them got to try this as we introduced cask samples to our whisky lineups and this whisky was loved by so many groups we felt compelled to do a small run of just a hundred bottles for those who wanted to get involved in this special whisky. This whisky has been matured for its whole maturation term in a Pedro Ximenez cask (known as PX in the industry) which has given it a stunning meaty flavour profile full of rich fruit and a pang of sweetness too owing to its time in the PX cask.

“Yes, only 90 bottles of this one have been produced, and all because of the awesome feedback we received when cask samples of this gem were used on our virtual tastings during the Christmas season” – Kirsty

Age: 7 Years Old     |     ABV: 48.2%     |     Only 90 bottles ever released

STRATHCLYDE 15 YEAR OLD SINGLE CASK SINGLE GRAIN SCOTCH WHISKY

As you’ll know, we love grain whisky so this is our core Single Cask Single Grain whisky release for 2021. Expect notes of toffee, fudge, stewed apples with a thick, oily mouthfeel evoking cereal and spicy notes whilst being incredibly smooth at the same time with honey and burnt brown sugar notes present too.

Age: 15 Years Old     |     ABV: 48.2%     |     Only 200 bottles ever released

ISLAY SINGLE CASK SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY
We have always wanted to bottle an Islay whisky, and our awesome customers have been pestering us to do so for a long time… finally it is here! A heavily peated whisky from the mystical island of Islay, matured in First Fill Bourbon Barrel and laden with beautifully balanced, classic Islay peated whisky notes as well as lovely soothing vanilla and citrus fruit notes along with cinnamon and warming spice notes too.

Age: 7 Years Old     |     ABV: 48.2%     |     Only 243 bottles ever released

All our releases are non-chill filtered and of natural colour.

“We have been toying with when to release our ancient Girvan for a while now and it felt right to do so now as it is just over 30 years old, is so rich and luxurious in its flavour composition and, frankly, like all our releases, we fell in love with it… who doesn’t love an ancient grain whisky?!” – Greg

In addition to new releases, GreatDrams is now taking bookings for private virtual whisky and gin tastings September through December, so far since lockdown was announced GreatDrams’ virtual tastings – public and private – have had over 2,000 participants and has added a fun dimension to what we do. Greg notes that he “never expected to do virtual tastings, and set the first one up as a way to get around 20 people to have a drink with him to alleviate the monotony of lockdown and it just spiralled from there”.

To get in touch and talk whisky contact Greg@GreatDrams.com or to buy limited edition whisky www.greatdrams.com/whisky-shop

ABOUT GreatDrams

www.GreatDrams.com
www.twitter.com/GreatDrams
www.Instagram.com/GreatDramsGreg
www.Facebook.com/GreatDrams

GreatDrams is all about raising spirits
Award-winning from our first dram, with one of our most recent award wins being in the most prestigious global whisky competition describing our whisky as being “amongst the finest products in the world”, we will introduce whisky drinkers to their next favourite. GreatDrams is a family business bringing great quality, limited edition whiskies and whiskeys to the people, all at a fair price. Never repeating our products, and never compromising on flavour.

GreatDrams was launched with the aim to make great whisky more approachable & available. We are experts in finding incredible tasting rare casks of whisky.

With twenty awards under our belts, we have a proven track record for producing great tasting whiskies that are recognised and awarded by both consumer and industry judging panels… that sell out every single time as well, which tells us all we need to know.

We love what we do and are constantly searching for whisky that not only has a story behind every drop and means something to us, but tastes sensational.

PENDERYN WHISKY UNVEILS A NEW FLAGSHIP DISTILLERY IN HISTORIC LLANDUDNO, NORTH WALES

Penderyn Llandudno opens to the public on June 1, 2021, and celebrates the 20th anniversary of the rebirth of the whisky industry in Wales after a hundred year absence.

The brand’s second location features a Penderyn signature single-column Faraday still, and will be the first distillery in Wales fully dedicated to the production of peated single malt whisky.

Penderyn Distillery, Llandudno, Wales

Llandudno, Wales – May 19, 2021: On the 20th anniversary of its launch in Wales, Penderyn Distillery announces the opening of a new flagship in the historic town of Llandudno in Northern Wales. The new location commenced operations on May 17, 2021 and opens to the public on June 1, 2021. Penderyn Llandudno joins the company’s original Brecon Beacons location producing the award-winning whisky credited with reviving the industry in Wales after a hundred-year absence. The new Llandudno location features a signature single-column Faraday still – which produces a whisky at an industry high of 92% ABV and is key to the delicate spirit that is the Penderyn signature – and for the first time in Welsh history will produce peated barley single malt whisky.

Penderyn’s expansion into Northern Wales marks the ongoing evolution of a whisky brand that has established itself as the standard-bearer domestically and as one of the most prominent Welsh exports internationally, distributing to more than 45 countries. Last year, Penderyn exceeded annual spirit sales of one million bottles for the first time and was awarded its biggest-ever gold medal haul at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition – Double Gold and two Gold Medals – in addition to various other top ratings, awards, and accolades. Often referred to as “Welsh Gold’’ for its color, quality, and rarity, Penderyn has become the gold standard for the growing whisky industry in Wales.

According to Penderyn Distillery’s CEO, Stephen Davies, “Penderyn has always had a loyal following in North Wales. But with the South separated from the North by mountains and lakes, Penderyn has finally brought the country together. By opening in Llandudno, visited by 9.6 million tourists every year, we’re saying ‘Welcome home to Wales and to Penderyn.”

Llandudno is a picturesque Victorian seaside resort town on the North Wales coast and a major tourist attraction for its charming pier, funicular railway, numerous hotels, and stunning promenade that runs along the Irish sea for nearly two miles. A source of inspiration to its many visitors throughout the ages, it is believed Llandudno and its enchanting surroundings were the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, whose real-life titular character, Alice Liddell, and family frequently vacationed in the town.

Penderyn’s new flagship is housed within a landmarked building, the Old Board School, which dates back to 1887, and until recently served as the Conwy Council archive. With an investment of £5 million (approximately US$7.09 million) the building has been transformed into a world-class distillation site, housing traditional pot stills, one of Penderyn’s signature Faraday stills, and a spacious visitor center and tasting bar designed to welcome approximately 60,000 guests per year.

Under the supervision of Commissioning Distiller Bethan Morgans, the new distillery is projected to produce one-third of Penderyn’s yearly output. It will become the first distillery in Wales to be fully dedicated to producing peated single malt whiskey. Underscoring its commitment to crafting a product that celebrates and reflects the heritage and history of Wales and its local setting, whisky produced in Llandudno will be distilled using natural spring water supplied from a reservoir that once served the Victorian Lighthouse on the mythic Great Orme Headland that is synonymous with the town.

Penderyn’s Director of Operations, Neil Quigley, has been pivotal to getting the new Llandudno distillery open on time, carefully navigating the COVID-19 protocols of the past year. He says, “Since its inception three years ago, this has been a hugely exciting and challenging project. I’m pleased to have kept this remarkable renovation on time and on track.” The re-imagining of the historic building was done in partnership with Mold-based MPH Construction and Michael Kavanagh, Development Director of Short Bros Homes, who together oversaw the restoration of the existing structure, as well as the addition of a an architecturally stunning modern glass-and-steel extension that welcomes visitors to the new distillery.

As Penderyn looks to the future – and a third location in Swansea in 2022 – it is working with the UK Government to enshrine 70 Welsh Geographical Indicators (GIs) as hallmarks of the unique production process of Welsh Whisky. This will ensure that all distillates bearing the designation ‘Welsh Whisky’ reflect the quality of the products associated with the destination, while establishing them as unique exports in the competitive world whisky market.

For more information about Penderyn, visit penderyn.wales.

About Penderyn:

Penderyn is an independent distillery with locations in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno, Wales, UK. Established as one of the most influential Welsh exports, Penderyn is credited with reviving the country’s whisky industry after more than a 100-year absence. Renowned for its high-quality single malt whisky and other distillates, Penderyn is also recognized for respecting the long heritage of whisky production and combining it with an innovative approach to distilling. Penderyn is exported to over 40 destinations, including Europe, Canada, the USA, Japan, Russia, Singapore, Australia, and China.

BLADNOCH DISTILLERY LAUNCHES 2021 SINGLE CASK COLLECTION

This year for the first time, the annual collection will include a 6th cask, highlighting one of the rarest cask types in the Bladnoch Distillery archives.

BLADNOCH, SCOTLAND (MAY 26, 2021) – Bladnoch Distillery will release its annual Single Cask Collection in limited quantities on the 26th of May, 10am BST through their UK online store, Visitor Centre and later in various countries around the world throughout Bladnoch’s trusted network of distributors.

The 2021 collection will consist of 6 unique single casks, hand selected by Master Distiller, Dr Nick Savage as the very best that were maturing at Bladnoch’s 204 year old estate this year. Featured in this year’s collection will be some tantalising cask types including Palo Cortado Sherry, Port Pipe and Amontillado Sherry.

The 2021 Collection will feature an additional 6th cask, a grand ex Canasta Butt that is one of only a few to exist in Bladnoch’s bluestone warehouses. This distinguished single cask will be differentiated by a luxurious all-black bottle presentation. Distilled in 2002, this single malt displays notes of liquorice sticks, delicate florals and almonds on the palate.

Dr Nick Savage said of the collection, “The 2021 Single Cask Collection once again allows us to demonstrate the quality and breadth in style of the maturing stocks at Bladnoch. As part of this five year program, these 6 whiskies add to the 2020 collection with more cask types and vintages, including the extreme rarity of certain casks such as the specially selected Canasta Butt. The 2021 collection showcases the very best casks from our maturing stocks.”

The inaugural 2020 Single Cask Collection sold out in record time to whisky enthusiasts around the world. With bottle quantities of each cask very limited, Bladnoch’s 2021 Single Cask Collection is set for a similar fate.

To purchase the Bladnoch 2021 Single Cask Collection, visit www.bladnoch.com. The collection will be available from 10am on the 26th of May.

RRP
£140-£400

About Bladnoch Distillery

Bladnoch Distillery was established in 1817, making it the oldest working Scotch Whisky Distillery in the Lowlands. As the southernmost distillery in Scotland, it is commonly referred to as the ‘Queen of the Lowlands.’ Hand crafted using only the finest local ingredients such as the pristine water from the River Bladnoch that flows alongside the distillery and Scottish barley create a rich, flavourful whisky that is best savoured. Bladnoch single malts are non-chill filtered to ensure the truest flavours shine through.

This legacy brand has been revived by Master Distiller Dr. Nick Savage, formerly at The Macallan, and owner David Prior, a whisky connoisseur who is the first Australian businessman to own a Scotch whisky distillery. Bladnoch is truly passionate about the preservation of the environment and the local community’s generational involvement in the iconic distillery.

OLDEST CORE RELEASE TO DATE UNVEILED BY

THE GLENALLACHIE

Batch 1 of The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength single malt is the latest creation

from world-renowned Master Distiller, Billy Walker

Hot on the heels of winning the World’s Best Single Malt award (World Whiskies Awards, 2021), The GlenAllachie Distillery is launching its oldest and most prestigious core offering yet: The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Batch 1 Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

A brand-new addition to the GlenAllachie’s multi award-winning flagship range, Batch 1 of The GlenAllachie 30-year-old (UK RRSP £475) is the first in a series of annual small-batch releases at this age, with only 2,000 bottles available worldwide.

This first instalment is a marriage of vintage whiskies from nine casks handpicked by acclaimed Master Distiller, Billy Walker, from stocks spanning more than 50,000 casks maturing across 16 on-site warehouses at GlenAllachie.

To create this unique whisky, which is bottled at cask strength of 48.9% ABV, non chill filtered and natural colour, Walker personally selected a combination of 1989 and 1990 vintages matured in former Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso hogsheads and puncheons, along with a small quantity of Chinquapin Virgin Oak casks.

The result of Walker’s superlative blending and wood management expertise is an exceptional whisky that delivers bold sherry-matured sophistication; notes of indulgent mocha, ripe figs and dark chocolate, coupled with classic GlenAllachie honeyed charm.

Commenting on the historic release, Walker, who next year reaches his 50^th year in the industry, said: “When I first explored the warehouses here back in 2017, I was blown away by the quality I discovered. I immediately set out earmarking casks and planning a series of incredibly special releases.

“I always had an ambition to create a memorable 30-year-old expression, presented at natural cask strength, that would truly blow away whisky connoisseurs across the globe. It’s a small-batch single malt that undoubtedly captures everything I’ve learned along the way in my career, and thus is a bottling I’m particularly proud to release.”

The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Batch 1 is available from specialist retailers globally, with a UK RRSP of £475.

ABOUT GLENALLACHIE:

One of Scotland’s few independently owned and managed distilleries, The GlenAllachie is led by industry veteran, Billy Walker, who boasts an almost 50-year tenure in whisky. With an emphasis on wood policy, The GlenAllachie’s cask budget for 2021 stands at an eye-watering £1m/$1.2m. With 16 on-site warehouses holding over 50,000 casks, we have complete control of the end-to-end maturation process.

The GlenAllachie focusses on quality over quantity, which is why we chose to reduce our production capacity from 4m to 500,000 Litres of Alcohol, and increase our fermentation period to 160 hours for an ester rich, fruity spirit.

We believe age and integrity matter, which is why all our whiskies carry an age statement, and are bottled at a minimum of 46% ABV, natural colour and non-chill filtered for maximum flavour experience.

Further information on the distillery and company can be found at www.theglenallachie.com

Facebook – @TheGlenAllachie

Twitter – @TheGlenAllachie

Instagram – @theglenallachie_

TASTING NOTES

The GlenAllachie 30-year-old Cask Strength Batch 1 – 2,000 bottles, 48.9% ABV

• Colour: Rich Mahogany.
• Nose: Fruit cake, raisins and mocha, with honey, cinnamon and coconut.
• Taste: Layers of dark chocolate, fruit cake, raisins, honey and figs, with treacle, orange zest and nutmeg.

TIMOROUS BEASTIE UNLEASHES

“MEET THE BEAST” CASK STRENGTH LIMITED EDITION

Douglas Laing & Co, family firm behind the “Remarkable Regional Malts” Scotch Whisky range, today unleash Timorous Beastie “Meet the Beast”; a limited edition partner to their Highland Malt brand.

Offered at a natural cask strength of 54.9% and matured exclusively in ex-American Bourbon barrels, the spirit is said to be a “massive amplification” of the original.

Packaged in a black bottle with red capsule and premium gift tube, the striking livery features the brand’s trademark mouse character and monochromatic colourways, complemented by flashes of bold red. With tasting notes including “complex oak”, “buttery pastry” and “rich spices”, the team behind Timorous Beastie Meet the Beast say it is “bound to appeal to an adventurous whisky drinker with an appetite for big flavours”.

Cara Laing, Director of Marketing in her family business, said:

“The original Timorous Beastie may look cute and unassuming, but the spirit inside is a seriously credible Highland Malt, offered at high alcohol strength and without colouring or chill-filtration. Our new limited edition “Meet the Beast” is designed to unleash Timorous Beastie’s wild side in line with a repositioning for the core brand, which seeks to enthuse and excite consumers via premium, credible messaging with a feisty edge. It’s true what they say – beware of the quiet ones!”

Timorous Beastie Meet the Beast is expected to retail at £50 and will be available from selected specialist retailers globally from May 2021. Just 3,600 bottles are available.

Tasting notes    

On the nose, expect a burst of sweet vanilla, complex oak and orchard fruits. The beast of a palate delivers wonderful notes of candyfloss, creamy honey and buttery pastry, running to a satisfyingly long finish with spices that go on and on…

ABOUT TIMOROUS BEASTIE

Instagram: @timorousbeastiewhisky

Facebook: /dltimorousbeastie

Established in 2014 by Douglas Laing & Co, Timorous Beastie represents “ultimate distillation of the Highlands” in a small batch marriage of Single Malts distilled at Glengoyne, Glen Garioch, Blair Athol and Strathearn Distilleries, amongst others. The multi award-winning Scotch is distributed in over 50 markets globally and has amassed a loyal following

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distillery, 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 Island (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay).

Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old Particular, Xtra Old Particular and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.