VIRTUAL GREAT BUFFALO CHASE 5K

HOSTED PARTICIPANTS FROM ALL 50 STATES

More than $21,000 raised for local VFW, $15,000 donated to local food pantry 

       FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (July 8, 2021) – Runners from all 50 states and five countries participated in Buffalo Trace Distillery’s 20^th annual Great Buffalo Chase 5k which was held virtually over July 4^th weekend. This was the second time this race, which has historically attracted top runners from across the United States and the world, received runner participation in all of the 50 United States. In total, 1,131 people participated in the virtual race. Registrations for the race raised more than $21,000 for the city of Frankfort’s VFW Post 4075’s annual fireworks show on July 4^th weekend.

The race kicked off the morning of July 2^nd with the singing of the National Anthem, performed by Navji Dixon, a public relations coordinator for the Distillery and performing artist in the central Kentucky region. Then, runners and walkers participated in this year’s virtual race in their hometowns and local neighborhoods wherever they were located during the period of July 2-5 instead of running at the Distillery as in the past. Participants were mailed a commemorative T-shirt and race bib and had the option to record and submit their personal race time.

Due to the nature of this being a virtual race, and in the spirit of fairness, prizes were not awarded to top runners this year. On behalf of all participants, and in commitment to supporting others, this Fourth of July Buffalo Trace Distillery donated $15,000 to God’s Pantry Food Bank to support the local Franklin County community. Additionally, everyone who registered was entered into a raffle to win a prize from the Gift Shop and winners were notified via email.

Participants also were encouraged to take part in the virtual patriotic attire costume contest on the Virtual Great Buffalo Chase 5K Facebook Event through the Buffalo Trace Distillery Facebook Page and by using #ChaseTheBuffalo for the chance to win a prize from the Gift Shop. Participants also had the opportunity to post pictures of their pets in Buffalo Trace or patriotic attire for a special pet costume contest new to this year’s race.

A full listing of submitted race times can be found on the Buffalo Trace Distillery website, here.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 35 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year by “Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible 2018” and its William Larue Weller and Thomas H. Handy Sazerac were named 2^nd and 3^rd finest whiskeys in the world, respectively, in the “Jim Murray Whiskey Bible 2020.”  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Our 1st North Star
TyndrumWhisky Exclusive

We are really proud to have partnered with North Star Spirits for this release, it’s part of their Series 015. Tasting notes were provided by the team here: “Susie & Craig”

It’s hailing from an Orkney distillery, which we can all assume is that one, and not the other one…

Order Now

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION WELCOMES CASTLE & KEY AS NEWEST HERITAGE MEMBER

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Castle & Key Distillery in Woodford County is the 43rd member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

In 2014, Castle & Key co-founders Will Arvin and Wes Murry purchased the historic Old Taylor Distillery at 4445 McCracken Pike and began an intensive multi-year restoration effort that culminated in its 2018 grand opening.

With three continuous column stills, production of bourbon and rye whiskey, gin and vodka began in 2016. Current products include Restoration Kentucky Rye Whiskey and Slow Hands Single Barrel Rye Whiskey

“We’re thrilled to be joining the KDA and will be seeking a spot soon on the Kentucky bourbon Trail Craft Tour,” Arvin said. “We’ve appreciated the leadership of Eric Gregory and his team at the KDA in championing Kentucky’s signature industry around the world, and we look forward to working alongside all other members of the organization.”

Learn more at https://castleandkey.com/.

KDA President Eric Gregory said Arvin has demonstrated a superb commitment to the preservation of Kentucky’s Bourbon heritage through Castle & Key’s significant investment in the restoration of the iconic distillery.

“We have had a great relationship with the Castle & Key team from its beginning, and we are equally thrilled to welcome them into our growing family of Kentucky’s finest distillers,” Gregory said. “We look forward to adding Will’s insight and leadership to our trusted Board of Directors.”

Castle & Key is the KDA’s 15th Heritage-level member, the highest rank for distilleries that age more than 50,000 barrels a year. As a Heritage member, Castle & Key will have an expanded leadership role in the management of the association and the future of the landmark industry.

Other KDA Heritage members include Bardstown Bourbon Company, Beam Suntory (Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark), Brown-Forman, Diageo North America, Four Roses, Green River Distilling Co., Heaven Hill Brands, Louisville Distilling Company, Lux Row, Michter’s, Rabbit Hole, Wild Turkey, Wilderness Trail and Willett.

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

Kentucky Bourbon is one of the Commonwealth’s most historic and treasured industries, a booming $8.6 billion economic engine that generates more than 20,100 jobs with an annual payroll topping $1 billion each year.

In addition, the industry is in the middle of a $2.3 billion building boom, from innovative new tourism centers to expanded production facilities, all to meet the growing global thirst for Kentucky Bourbon.

There are now nearly 10 million barrels of Bourbon and other spirits aging in Kentucky warehouses, the highest number in the modern era of American Whiskey. Of that, 9.3 million are just Bourbon, the first time since 1967 that the number of Bourbon barrels topped nine million.

Bourbon production has skyrocketed more than 360 percent since the turn of the century, with Kentucky distillers filling 2.1 million barrels in 2019, the second year in a row that Kentucky distillers have filled two million barrels, the first time that’s happened in the modern era.

Attendance at the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon TrailⓇ and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft TourⓇ distilleries has shot up more than 300 percent in the last 10 years. Total attendance in 2019 was nearly 2 million, the highest number since KDA founded the tour in 1999.

Visit www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com to learn more.

Gregory said Castle & Key’s contributions to the industry and the KDA’s legislative initiatives will bolster Kentucky Bourbon’s efforts to change archaic laws and regulations, opening new opportunities for sustainable growth globally.

“The KDA and its members are committed to upholding the integrity of our beloved industry and meeting the global demand for Kentucky Bourbon responsibly an sustainably,” Gregory said. “We thank Will and his team for their dedication to strengthening Kentucky’s place as the one true home for Bourbon.”

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com 

KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™ and KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® are trademarks/service marks of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Make It Memorable – Enjoy Responsibly.

Photo: Eoin Holland – www.eoinholland.com

JAMESON BLACK BARREL HAS SWEPT THE BOARDS IN GLOBAL AWARDS 

Having celebrated a Gold Outstanding and 98 points from the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2021 (IWSC), and an impressive Double Gold medal from the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) in recent weeks, last night Jameson Black Barrel took home the overall trophy for the best Irish whiskey at the ISC’s prestigious annual ceremony.

Testament to the quality and craftsmanship of the beloved Irish whiskey, this honour is the result of a rigorous blind tasting assessment from an experienced panel of judges to discover outstanding quality in the spirits industry. Matured in reawakened bourbon barrels, Jameson Black Barrel has a unique richness, with intense vanilla sweetness, pot still spiciness and nutty notes.

Irish Distillers also won the highest recognition for Irish whiskey at the ISC, after being crowned Irish Whiskey Producer of the Year at the esteemed awards ceremony. The result follows a stellar year at the competition for Midleton Distillery which saw its expressions receive an outstanding 28 medals, including three Double Golds.  

Notes  

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is one of Ireland’s leading suppliers 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 and hitting sales of 8m cases in 2019. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 70 of those experiencing double or triple-digit growth.

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.

IMPEX BEVERAGES ANNOUNCES THE DEBUT OF THEIR INDEPENDENT BOTTLING LINE

THE IMPEX COLLECTION 

San Francisco, CA – July 8, 2021: Sam Filmus and Chris Uhde of ImpEx Beverages announced today the debut of The ImpEx Collection with Edition One.

This edition, which features Scotch Whisky & World Whisky expressions, marks the end of a long journey and a realization of a dream for the company’s President and Vice President.

About the selection process, Sam Filmus, President of ImpEx Beverages, said, “Finding the symphony of nose, palate, and finish is key. Sometimes we are looking for the original style the distillery offers and other times it’s about finding the surprise cask that is totally different from the norm. For us it’s about making sure those truly special gems don’t get lost and being able to bring unique and special options to the customer.”

Chris Uhde, Vice President of ImpEx Beverages, added, “There is a lot of great whisky out there and choosing a cask for The ImpEx Collection is always a very carefully thought-out process. When selecting a cask, I ask myself three questions:

1. “Is it delicious?”
2. “Would I be proud to share and enjoy this whisky with friends?”
3. “Does the cask fit in a complementary way with the other casks being offered in the release?”

Only if the answer to all three is “Yes!” then I have found a cask worth including in The ImpEx Collection.”

In addition to Single Casks, The ImpEx Collection includes vattings of multiple casks,. Production size is always small, because spirits this special are always rare. Once they’re consumed, they live on only in memory.

The ImpEx Collection is inclusive and inviting, welcoming people to branch out beyond what they’re familiar with and try something new. These bottles are meant to be shared, whether for special occasions or simply among friends.

Edition One features the following expressions:

SCOTCH WHISKY:

• The ImpEx Collection 25 yo Springbank Cask #94 (1993 Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish)
• The ImpEx Collection 40 yo Blend Cask #34 (1980 Sherry Butt)
• The ImpEx Collection 28 yo Cameronbridge Cask #115125 (1982 Sherry Butt)
• The ImpEx Collection 12 yo Caol Ila Cask #313250 (2008 Hogshead)
• The ImpEx Collection 14 yo Glen Elgin Cask #9800012 (2006 Bourbon Barrel)
• The ImpEx Collection 21 yo Orkney Cask #58 (1999 HHD)

WORLD WHISKY:

• The ImpEx Collection 3 yo M&H Cask #2017-0123 (2017 ex-Bourbon finished in ex-PX Sherry HHD)

When asked what was the most special part of the experience, Sam & Chris both agreed that it was the support of industry friends like Oliver Chilton, Tal Chotiner, Tomer Goren, Joshua Hatton, and Susannah Skiver Barton that made all of the difference. “Their willingness to work with us on this project to help bring it to a successful launch was amazing, we couldn’t have done it without them” Sam said.

With its launch today, excited consumers can begin to look for these amazing expressions on store shelves in specialty retailers across the US.

About ImpEx Beverages

In 2008, a new chapter began for Sam Filmus, after years in the business captaining JVS Imports. With ImpEx Beverages, his vision was to import premium and rare spirits from around the world, with a special emphasis on the best of what Scotland has to offer.

In 2018, Chris Uhde joined Sam as his business partner in ImpEx Beverages and together they have expanded the portfolio and vision for ImpEx.

Now, ImpEx boasts an impressive portfolio, including some of the most notable small to medium sized distilleries and independent bottlers.

ImpEx Beverages imports Whisky, Gin, Rum, and Mezcal from Scotland, Belgium, Wales, Japan, Israel, and Mexico with future anticipated additions from unexpected destinations. We also feature a fine line of Liqueurs and Cordials produced in the US.

Regardless of your preference, you are sure to find something that pleases from the ImpEx Beverages Portfolio.

For more information on where to find Edition One of The ImpEx Collection, please reach out to office@ImpExBev.com.

www.rarefindsworldwide.com

RARE FINDS WORLDWIDE NOW ACCEPTS CRYPTOCURRENCIES AS PAYMENT FOR RARE WHISKY CASK PURCHASES

HONG KONG – Rare Finds Worldwide, Hong Kong’s leading whisky brokerage, has announced that it will begin accepting major cryptocurrencies as an additional form of payment for cask purchases.

Observing the growing demand for optionality and convenience, Rare Finds Worldwide has taken the step to adapt to new preferences of the market by accepting major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stable coin as an additional form of payment for whisky cask purchases. This move marks the beginning of Rare Finds Worldwide’s support for the growth of cryptocurrency and blockchain ecosystem, it also maximises convenience and customer experience for investors as the additional payment method will increase the Brokerage’s flexibility and accessibility to Crypto holders.

“Faced with extreme market volatility in Crypto-related markets, investors are turning to more stable alternative assets such as whisky to weather the storm,” said James Odell, Managing Director of Rare Finds Worldwide. “Whisky is fast becoming ‘liquid gold’, reflecting its growing status as a collectible asset that appreciates strongly in value due to its rarity. We see a correlation between Crypto-related investors, diversifying their portfolio to a more stable alternative assets returning up to 20-40% per year . Whisky provides high returns and with an abundance of collectors, investors and specialist auctioneers, it’s creating a highly liquid environment in which to trade whisky.”

The process for buying specialist rare casks remains the same leveraging the expertise of inhouse portfolio managers who select the best investments based upon return objectives for clients . At the point-of-sale ETH/BTC/USDT/USDC/ will be available to transfer to Rare Find Worldwide’s account as an alternative method of payment. Security of ownership via sales contracts, a delivery order, reputable storage and insurance remains the same with all casks registered tax free in bond with HMRC.

Commenting Freeman Ho, Whisky Specialist at Rare Finds Worldwide, said: “Targeting rare whisky casks that are at the cusp of reaching their premium years has been a very successful strategy for us. Our strategy is to supply ultra-rare, premium whiskies at below market rates, leveraging our longstanding relationships with premium distilleries, collectors and suppliers. Through the combined brokerage and fund partnership, we are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for whisky as the next hot luxury collectible asset from a younger generation of affluent Asian Crypto investors and connoisseurs.”

About Rare Finds Worldwide

Rare Finds Worldwide is a tailored whisky brokerage that offers collectors and investors the opportunity to increase wealth with rare Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The firm offers private client’s exclusive access to some of the oldest and most prestigious single malts in the world, as well as taking advantage of ultra-premium cask procurement from Tier 1 distilleries such as Macallan, Dalmore and Bowmore to name a select few. Our team comprises of experienced investment banking professionals and alternative investment specialists, whose passion for whisky has evolved into a consultancy that focuses on delivering only best in class product, with authentic provenance, to our family of whisky investors and collectors. The firm’s largest investor is Platinum Rise Capital Partners, an investment and development finance company headquartered in Hong Kong.

www.rarefindsworldwide.com

Origin Spirits Ireland Ltd, a pioneer in avant-garde single malt spirits, is proud to announce the launch of its latest commercial release whiskey, Currach Single Malt Irish Whiskey – Atlantic Wakame Seaweed Cask. 

Bio:  
Currach Single Malt Irish Whiskey is a true innovation in the world of whiskey and the first to be finished in seaweed charred casks. Currach’s first expression was made with Irish Atlantic Kombu Kelp seaweed, a brown seaweed varietal, launched in March 2020 and is now sold in over 20 international markets worldwide.

After the success of its initial Atlantic Kombu release, Origin Spirits is delighted to release its second whiskey expression. Currach Single Malt Irish Whiskey – Atlantic Wakame Seaweed Cask.

The same process is used to create both expressions, the only variance being the seaweed used to char the individual casks. The flavours from both products are starkly different, yet share the same single malt DNA while having distinctive sweet, savoury and maritime qualities of their own. This shows the incredible diversity of Ireland’s maritime terroir, and how this influences our single malt whiskey.

Currach Wakame Cask is an intriguing whiskey – complex yet subtle, vegetal yet sweet, light yet deep.

Made from 100% Irish malted barley, it is a triple distilled single malt Irish whiskey, initially matured in 1st fill American oak ex-bourbon barrels before being finished in Atlantic Wakame seaweed charred virgin American oak casks. It is non-chill filtered, with no caramel colouring, and is bottled at 46% alc./vol. The initial batch is limited to only 3000 bottles.

Wakame Seaweed:
Sustainably hand-harvested off the wild Atlantic coast of Co. Clare, Wakame seaweed is 100 % naturally grown and organically certified. Wakame, a green seaweed varietal, is both rare and seasonal, and considered to be the king of seaweeds.

Wakame seaweed grows in the extreme lower shore on wave-battered rocks and in rock pools along the coast of Ireland. It grows in the winter months and is harvested in mid-spring/early summer when it is at its nutritional prime. Wakame is known for its’ low light limitations and therefore does not grow in the mid-summer months.

Wakame has a subtle, but distinctive taste and texture. It has a briny, salty, and umami flavour with a degree of sweetness. It is traditionally used in salads, soups, snacks, and as a seasoning, particularly in Japanese and other Asian cuisines.

Seaweed Harvesting:
Seaweed harvesting employs about 400 people in Ireland, mostly on a part-time basis, as it is very weather and tide dependent. Fourth Generation Seaweed Harvesters, The Talty Family, ensures only the finest seaweeds are selected for Currach Single Malt Whiskey. All their seaweeds grow naturally off the Wild Atlantic Way in Co. Clare. Hand-harvested in season to provide optimum nutrition, their seaweeds are organically certified. The precious harvesting waters are also tested quarterly to ensure they are of the highest quality.

Quote: 
Patrick Shelley, Founder of Origin Spirits Ireland Ltd. said;

“Our vision with Currach was to create a single malt Irish whiskey inspired by the various elements of the Irish terroir. We are fortunate to have some of the best malted barley in the world and our coast yields an abundance of organic and sustainable seaweed. The union of these elements together in a whiskey is a world’s first.

We were very encouraged by the success of our initial Kombu release which is now available in 20 countries, and wanted to let our consumers further discover the diversity of Ireland’s maritime terroir with our Atlantic Wakame Cask”

“Currach Atlantic Wakame Cask is a whiskey of sensory paradoxes. At its heart, it is a smooth Irish single malt but with the subtle briny and maritime characteristics often found in Scotch, thus giving it a uniquely rich, multi-layered and complex character”

Tasting Notes:
Nose: An intriguing and enticing nose, as sea salt and rye cracker aromas give way to a golden caramel sweetness, backed by vegetal hints with a touch of iodine.

Palate: Cracked pepper and oak spice, followed by briny yet sweet maritime notes, complemented by a white wine fruitiness, butterscotch and herbal green tea undertones.

Finish: An elegant sweet and salty finish with a touch of liquorice and plenty of umami and maritime character.

RSP Ireland: 
60,00€

Availability: Available now at Origin Spirits Online Store (originspirits.ie) and from select retailers internationally in the coming weeks.

Social Media: (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter) @currachwhiskey

Website: http://currachwhiskey.com/

THE MACALLAN AND BENTLEY MOTORS JOIN FORCES IN EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY TOWARDS THE FUTURE 

6th July 2021, Speyside – Scotland. The Macallan single malt Scotch whisky and luxury British automotive manufacturer Bentley Motors have revealed a unique partnership that will build on their rich heritage to develop distinctive collaborations and further their vision of a more sustainable future.

United by a dedication to mastery, craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, the two world-leading brands will share learnings from their respective industries, while pursuing the uncompromised excellence for which they are renowned.

By bringing together The Macallan’s mastery of whisky-making with Bentley Motors’ expertise in the world of luxury cars, the collaboration will create immersive experiences and inspirational products that deliver timeless luxury balanced with a commitment to a more progressive world.

The global brand partnership was unveiled today at The Macallan Estate in the Speyside region of Scotland, alongside the launch of a new Hybrid Bentley – the next step in Bentley’s journey to become the world’s leading sustainable luxury mobility company as part of its Beyond100 strategy.

Igor Boyadjian, Managing Director for The Macallan, said: “The Macallan and Bentley Motors each have a rich heritage, and shared values of mastery, craftsmanship, creativity and innovation. Our collaboration presents a remarkable opportunity to compare our time-earned knowledge and learn from each other. We will generate fresh and contemporary thinking around our consumer engagement, our exceptional experiences, and ultimately our products.

“A key focus of the partnership will be our commitment to a more sustainable future. The breath-taking natural landscape at The Macallan Estate provides the perfect platform for us to embark together on this exciting and extraordinary journey.”

Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Adrian Hallmark, said: “Transforming Bentley into the world’s most sustainable luxury car company is an exciting journey, and I’m delighted to be working with The Macallan with one common goal – to both lead our fields as we work towards a more sustainable future.

“We will learn from each other in the coming months and years to advance our programmes together, and on the way work on some truly extraordinary experiences, projects and products. Our brands are two that share the same ethos – the passion for exceptional quality, a respect for artisanal  handcraftsmanship, and now a drive towards genuine, world-leading sustainability. I’m looking forward to the adventure together.”

Established by Alexander Reid on a plateau above the River Spey in north-east Scotland in 1824, The Macallan is renowned across the globe for its extraordinary single malt whiskies. Nurtured by nature for almost 200 years, sustainability is a constant guiding principle for the brand. Its wide-reaching sustainability strategy incorporates a range of elements including giving back to communities; nurturing The Macallan Estate; progressive packaging; and partnering with sustainable suppliers.

Key goals are achieving carbon neutrality on The Macallan Estate by 2030, promoting responsible sourcing and cultivating a global community of artisans. It is also committed to having a fully electric passenger vehicle fleet on The Macallan Estate by 2025. Following the partnership announcement with Bentley Motors, the brand will take delivery of two hybrid Bentleys this year.

Bentley Motors was founded in London in 1919 and quickly rose to fame in the world of motorsports, before carving out an unmatched position as the pinnacle of the automotive sector, able to combine luxury and performance in a unique and unrivalled way.  The world’s most sought-after luxury car brand, Bentley Motors is now undergoing the biggest transformation in its 102-year history with the introduction of its ambitious Bentley 100 sustainability strategy.

The partnership will initially focus on a selection of core areas, including the brands’ shared journey to carbon neutrality, innovative research into the sourcing of sustainable materials, and teamwork on finding and sharing sustainable, local suppliers.

It will additionally deliver a wide range of projects over the coming years, including jointly-developed products from both The Macallan and Bentley, curated customer experiences and collaborative events.

For further information visit www.themacallan.com and www.bentleymotors.com

Crafted without compromise. Please savour The Macallan responsibly. Do not drink and drive.

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. 

About Bentley Motors

Bentley Motors is the most sought-after luxury car brand in the world. The company’s headquarters in Crewe is home to all of its operations including design, R&D, engineering, and production of the company’s three model lines, Continental, Flying Spur and Bentayga. The combination of fine craftsmanship, using skills that have been handed down through generations, alongside engineering expertise and cutting-edge technology is unique to UK luxury car brands such as Bentley. It is also an example of high-value British manufacturing at its best. Bentley employs around 4,000 people at Crewe.

June 30, 2021 (Hawthorne, NY) – Ultimate Spirits Challenge (USC), since 2010 the world’s most prestigious global spirits competition, today releases the results of the 2021 Challenge. With an increase in entries this year of 30%, 2021 was the twelfth consecutive year of record submissions. Entries arrived from more than 52 spirit-producing nations.

The judging, held throughout May and June, determined 56 Chairman’s Trophy winners, 301 Finalists, 208 Great Values, and 96 Tried & True Award winners. As always, USC was conducted at the custom-designed Ultimate Beverage Challenge (UBC) Evaluation Center, located in Hawthorne, NY.

Says UBC Co-Founder and Judging Director F. Paul Pacult, “Aside from being by far the largest USC ever, this year’s Challenge was likewise the most global, with an impressive array of quality distillates from places as far away from New York as China, Croatia, and Chile. Virtually all categories saw healthy gains in submissions, most notably gin, Ready-to-Drink cocktails, hard seltzers, craft spirits, mezcal, rum, and all whiskey and brandy categories.

“Since producers enter their top-shelf marques into USC, it’s clear that they look to us for the most accurate and unbiased data in the industry. We already look forward to USC 2022!”

WHISKY – CANADA

Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye

WHISKEY – IRELAND

Blended: The Legendary Silkie

Single Pot Still: Redbreast Cask Strength 12 Years Old

Single Malt: Waterford Dunmore Single Farm Origin Addition 1.2

WHISKY – SCOTLAND

Blended: Dewar’s Double Double 32 Years Old

Single Malt-Highland: Glenturret Peat Smoke 10 Years Old

Single Malt-Island: Talisker 18 Years Old

Single Malt-Islay: Kilchoman Machir Bay Cask Strength

Single Malt-Speyside: Mortlach Distiller’s Dram 16 Years Old

WHISKEY – USA

Bourbon/Bottled-In-Bond: Old Fitzgerald VVS 2020 16 Years Old Bottled-in-Bond

Bourbon: Weller Wheated Bourbon Full Proof

Rye: Col. E.H. Taylor, Jr. Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Rye

Single Barrel/Bourbon: Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel

Single Malt: Westland

Small Batch Bourbon: Black Bourbon Society’s Maker’s Mark Private Selection: Recipe 2

Tennessee: Uncle Nearest 1820 Single Barrel 11 Years Old

Wheat: Bainbridge Battle Point Two Islands Islay Cask Barrel Proof

Other: Mammoth Distilling Infinity

WHISK(E)Y – WORLD

Matsui Shuzo Sakura Single Cask

WHISK(E)Y FLAVORED – WORLD

Tom Bullock’s Burnt Orange Bourbon

After undergoing careful analysis through multiple panels, all products are rated on the 100-point scale by the spirits industry’s most renowned judges including buyers, journalists, educators, and bar owners.

Spirits scoring 85+ points receive a detailed tasting note. All spirits scoring 80+ points receive an individual results page, which provides all downloadable marketing material.

USC results are promoted globally and on social media. 

ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE…No shortcuts. Just honest, impartial judging.

ABOUT ULTIMATE BEVERAGE CHALLENGE

Ultimate Beverage Challenge (UBC) provides expert evaluation of spirits for producers, importers, and marketers through its innovative annual competition: Ultimate Spirits Challenge. UBC partners are F. Paul Pacult, Sue Woodley and David Talbot.

HOUSE OF SUNTORY ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF EXCLUSIVE TRAINING PROGRAM LED BY UK BRAND AMBASSADOR JAMES BOWKER 

The DOJO program will return for a second year and aims to educate select bartenders on the art of Japanese bartending 

London, 2^nd July 2021 – House of Suntory has announced the return of its advocacy programme which will educate bartenders on their premium portfolio of craft spirits Toki Whisky and Hibiki Whisky.

DOJO, which translates as ‘a place to master the way’, is a first-of-its kind program that seeks to engage with bartenders to not only improve their skillset, but deepen their understanding of the philosophy and customs that embody The House of Suntory’s roots in Japanese craftsmanship.

Led by House of Suntory’s Brand Ambassador, James Bowker, the DOJO programme will be supported by traditional Japanese Craft Masters. Together they will provide best-in-class education in Japanese culture, craft and bartending, centring on the three key pillars of House of Suntory: Hibiki, Omotenashi and Monozukuri.

Between June and September, the Japanese Craft Masters will each present an online masterclass with James Bowker.

Hosted by renowned Ikebana Artist, Keiko Smith, the Ikebana Masterclass took place on 21st June 2021, focusing on Japanese aesthetics and beauty.

On the 19th of July 2021, Master Sushi Instructor Izumi Nakamura and Japanese seasoning expert Stuart Turner will host a Sushi Masterclass exploring balance and seasoning.

23rd August 2021 will see Sake Sommelier, Erika Haigh, owner of Bar Moto, and Head Sommelier of Restaurant Story, Jonathan Kleeman, combine forces to teach the art of flavour matching during the Pairing Masterclass, which will also include a tasting of the blending components of Toki

To conclude the DOJO Masterclass Series on 20th September 2021, House of Suntory are collaborating with leading Urasenke Tea Master, Genshitsu Sen, to curate a Tea Ceremony Masterclass, centering on hospitality and guest experience. In addition, James Bowker and Zoran Peric will host a tasting of Hibiki components following an advanced ice carving tutorial.

In addition to this and in the spirit of traditional DOJO training, participants will also be able to take part in Kaizen Challenges, inspired by the idea of Kaizen – continual refinement – wherein participants will demonstrate their newfound skills and apply them to a classic cocktail. The participants who display the most commitment and personal development will be invited to a grand finale where House of Suntory will select the strongest DOJO apprentices to join them for a one-of-a-kind trip to Japan.

Commenting on the re-launch, James Bowker, UK Brand Ambassador for the House of Suntory said: “We are extremely proud to bring back DOJO for a second year. The programme is a great opportunity to engage with bartenders across the country and share with them the three pillars behind the House of Suntory brand that makes it so unique. Educating bartenders on Japanese culture has always been a passion of mine and I cannot wait to welcome the next cohort of Dojo ambassadors.”

For more information on DOJO, please visit www.suntorydojo.com  

Notes

The three pillars of House of Suntory include:

Hibiki – being in harmony with Japanese nature

Omotenashi – the enjoyed experiences of Japanese Hospitality and culture

Monozukuri – elevated Japanese Craftsmanship; and this programme will educate bartenders on all of these principles

About Edrington-Beam Suntory Distribution UK

Edrington-Beam Suntory Distribution UK is one of the UK’s biggest sprits sales, marketing, and distribution companies. It is a joint-venture company jointly owned by Edrington and Beam Suntory.

Edrington-Beam Suntory UK represents leading spirit brands in categories including:

• Blended Scotch (The Famous Grouse, Naked Grouse)
• Malt whisky (Highland Park, Laphroaig, The Macallan and Bowmore)
• Bourbon (Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark and Knob Creek)
• Imported whiskies (Canadian Club and Kilbeggan Irish whiskey)

ABOUT SUNTORY 

Suntory was established in 1899 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Since 1923, as the pioneer of Japanese whisky, Suntory Whisky has been renowned for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. The founding father of Japanese whisky, Shinjiro Torii, built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki. Nestled in the outskirts of Kyoto, this region was the birthplace of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and is known for the purity of its waters. Torii dreamt of creating an authentically Japanese whisky by choosing a terrain and climate completely different to that of Scotland, thereby cultivating unique conditions for maturation.

In 1972, Torii’s son Keizo Saji, Suntory’s second master blender, built the Chita grain distillery near Nagoya to produce more of their own high-quality grain whiskies. In 1973, Saji founded the Hakushu distillery amidst the deep forests of Mt. Kaikomagatake in the Japanese Southern Alps with the goal of producing malt whiskies distinct from those made at Yamazaki. Its high altitude and lush environment are what differentiates Hakushu from other distilleries.

At each of these distilleries, a diverse array of whiskies are produced through various fermentation techniques, shapes and sizes of giant copper pot stills, and the wide variety of cask types used. Today, roughly 1,200,000 casks of whisky are quietly maturation in Suntory’s aging cellars. This tsukuriwake—variety in the making—allows for the blending opportunities that are essential to achieving the subtle, refined yet complex taste signature to Suntory Whiskies.

With respect to heritage and a commitment to innovation, third generation master Blender Shingo Torii, and grandson of Shinjiro, now leads this most highly awarded house of Japanese Whisky. The House of Suntory Whisky has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014).

The House of Suntory portfolio includes two single malt whiskies:  Yamazaki – the pioneer of Japanese Single Malts, multi-layered and profound, and Hakushu – verdant, fresh, and delicately smoky; a single grain whisky: Chita—sublimely smooth, versatile and complex; and two blends: the noble blend, Hibiki – Japan’s most highly awarded blended whisky, and Suntory Whisky Toki – ideal for Japanese highballs.