Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd – Lochranza and Lagg Distilleries unveil new programme of daily tastings to come following Visitor Centres re-opening

The Isle of Arran’s two Scotch Whisky distilleries have re-opened their visitor centres in line with Scottish Government guidance, as Scotland’s islands begin to welcome back visitors from the mainland.

The whisky production sites at Lochranza in the north of the island and Lagg in the south will open their doors to the public with initial access to their Visitor Centre shops and takeaway cafes followed by a number of new bookable tastings from 17^th May onwards.

As with many other businesses across the country, both distilleries have been shut since Christmas last year but will be open daily from 10am from Mon 26^th April for shop and takeaway facilities. From Mon 17^th May, both sites will begin to run a brand-new calendar of daily tastings while no tours are available.

From 17^th May, there will be a range of tastings held at the Lochranza Distillery Visitor Centre, giving visitors the opportunity to try the award-winning Arran Single Malt whiskies, including a Core Range Tasting at 11am daily (£20 per adult), a Limited Editions Tasting at 2pm daily (£25 per adult) and a Whisky & Arran Chocolate Pairing Tasting at 11am and 3pm daily (£15 per adult).

Also from 17^th May, the Distillery’s CASKS Café will also be open from 10am-4.30pm for a delicious selection of hot and cold beverages and home baking, with a lunch menu served from 12noon-3pm.

All tables must be booked in advance, bookings for tastings and the CASKS Café can be made by contacting bookings@arranwhisky.com or by calling 01770 830 264.

As well as tastings at Lochranza, from 17^th May tastings will also take place at the island’s newer Lagg Distillery, which opened in 2019, and will run daily at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm costing £15.00 per adult.

Bookings can be made in advance by contacting Lagg Distillery on bookings@laggwhisky.com or by calling 01770 870565.

Director of Operations & Production for Lagg and Lochranza Distilleries, James MacTaggart said: “We’re thoroughly looking forward to welcoming visitors back to our distilleries at Lagg and Lochranza, while we’ve been able to stay in touch with them digitally in recent months, there’s nothing quite like welcoming people to the home of our Single Malts and tasting our precious liquid on the site it was crafted.”

Notes:

Accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for:

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

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

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

Product Awards include:

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

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

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

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

BRUICHLADDICH SET TO CELEBRATE A SWATHE OF ANNIVERSARIES DURING THEIR VIRTUAL FÈIS ÌLE CELEBRATIONS ON THE 30TH MAY 2021

Anniversary Highlights:

-20thAnniversary of Bruichladdich Distillery’s reopening

-140 Years since the distillery was built and first opened

-1 Year anniversary of B Corp certification

Twenty years have passed since Bruichladdich Distillery’s gates were thrown open once more, with dreams of resurrection. Muck was shovelled, walls painted, roofs repaired, stills polished and fresh enthusiasm from a long-neglected community poured into the heart and eventual home off our unique spirits. No-one could have predicted the success story Bruichladdich would become, least so in those early years when the company’s no-compromise approach threatened their very survival.

Those early years were spent convincing an industry that terroir in spirits existed; that barley, people and Islay mattered. Organically grown barley was added to the distillation schedule, quickly followed by Islay raised and the ancient landrace, Bere. An old warehouse was converted into a bottling hall and jobs were created for youngsters who would have otherwise moved off the island. Slowly but surely, a community-oriented business rose from the ashes, with principled founders at the helm driving their passion for provenance and transparency forward. More farmers, hauliers, and contractors would join the efforts as the whisky industry began to boom.

The last decade saw biodynamic barley distilled for the first time, bolstered investment from new owners Remy Cointreau, a Regional Trials experiment kicked off and the status of Islay’s largest private employer earned. Most recently, Bruichladdich have nurtured a renewed appreciation for whisky as an agriculture product involving relationships built with grain breeders and soil experts, and the purchase of 30 acres of croft land intended for R&D purposes. Fresh sights on growing sustainably have been set, with projects underway to decarbonise distillation by 2025, a One Tin Lighter initiative offered to reduce outer packaging, and continued investment in conservation and biodiversity both locally and in partnership with the Botanic Gardens Conservation International.

To cap off a successful decade, Bruichladdich Distillery was awarded B Corp certification in 2020. Focussing on people and planet, they are one of a handful of distilleries worldwide to achieve this accolade, firmly marking their commitment to using business asa force for good.To celebrate these anniversaries large and small, Bruichladdich has planned a programme including an interactive whisky masterclass, music and live action from the island. With a plethora of events, there’s something for the casual cocktail drinker to the most devout malt aficionado.

Co-founder of the business, Simon Coughlin comments:

“‘I can’t believe it’s been so long’ or ‘time flies’… often heard phrases such as these aren’t true when it comes to the Bruichladdich journey. We’ve never had a moment to stop and think or look back. We’ve been on this crusade, focused with such intent to change the way our industry looks at single malt. We’ve been so determined to turn it into something more than just the liquid in the bottle, that pausing to consider where we have come from seems an indulgence. There is still so much to do.

“Having said that, and in all honesty, the Bruichladdich Fèis Ìle day is the one single day of the year I enjoy the most. It’s aday to stop and enjoy a few hours with our supports and friends from around the world. Enjoying a B+T and a dram in the sun, listening to great music and sharing stories with so many Laddie fans really does make you think, we may have struck on something here! Seeing our local community in the courtyard having a bloody good time is just so special. It makes me incredibly proud and it’s a very emotional day and it takes an incredible team to pull it off. We so look forward to 2022 when we can hopefully welcome everyone back into our courtyard for another great celebration.

”Save the Date in your diary for the 30thof May 2021 and keep an eye on@bruichladdich social channel for full details of how to get involved.

NOTES 

Event Info: Following on from our first ever Laddie Lock-In virtual event in 2020, Bruichladdich will be kicking off their Laddie Lock-In II: Time Travellers. Celebrating the anniversaries of 20 years since resurrection, the event them is centred about raising a dram to milestones past, while saluting a toast to the mission we hope to achieve in the future. The event will run from 2pm ‘til 6pm on the 30thMay 2021 and will feature live bands and live content streamed straight from the distillery.

Masterclass kits consisting of 6 x 30m blind samples will go on sale on the 27th of April 2021 through a ballot process. A download pack to prepare enthusiasts for the day will be linked into our digital festival ‘hub’, with festival merch and full scheduling info along the way.

Participants will be asked to register to the distillery’s digital festival hub, and register for the event which will be managed through Hop-In. Full details for registration will be published on the distillery’s social channels on Tuesday 27thApril 2021, with access to event registration open once the first masterclass ballot is closed.

Release Info:1,200 kits of 6 x 30ml blind samples will go on sale on the 28thof April 2021,initially through ballot process3,000 bottles of Laddie Origins will go on sale on the 30thof May 2021,initially through ballot process840 bottles of Bruichladdich Single Cask will go sale on the 30thof May 2021, initially through ballot process.

TOMATIN DISTILLERY LAUNCHES ‘THE FRENCH COLLECTION’ 

The French Collection exhibits the unique influence imparted by different types of French wine & spirit casks

The limited four-part release is accompanied by an immersive content series designed to stimulate the senses

26^th April, 2021  – Tomatin, the award-winning Highland single malt, is today announcing the launch of a four-part limited release series, 12 years in the making. The French Collection  is a series of exceptional whiskies exhibiting the unique influence imparted by different French wine and spirits casks, hand-selected for the maturation process.

The whisky, distilled in 2008, began its maturation in traditional Scotch Whisky oak casks before being moved into Monbazillac, Sauternes, Rivesaltes and Cognac casks for the final stage of the process, resulting in a magnificent collection of four expressions.

To celebrate the launch of The French Collection and to complement the liquid on the lip’s moment alongside each edition,  an immersive four-part content series has been launched on the Tomatinwebsite. Stunning visuals, alongside an innovative soundboard using ambisonics, will transport the viewing audience to the origins of each product, through binaural sound –for the optimum experience, listeners are encouraged to enjoy through headphones. Each piece of content will be unveiled in conjunction with product availability, and has been designed for consumers to pair with their purchase, allowing the drinker to lose themselves in the world, and story, of each individual edition that makes up the Tomatin French Collection.

Edition 1 OF 4: The Monbazillac Edition

Distilled on 25th April 2008, the Monbazillac aroma dances between notes of dark, maple syrup and intense espresso, balanced with cinnamon baked apples. On the palate, there is a sweet cereal flavour combined with sweet milk chocolate and honeycomb ahead of subtle spices and emerging nutty flavours. The finish is rich with walnut and maple syrup.

Edition 2 OF 4: The Sauternes Edition

Distilled on 19th September 2008, the Sauternes brings a burst of peach and apricot on the nose, calmed by rich Manuka honey. The sweet honey continues on the palate accompanied by coconut and ginger. The finish is wonderfully sweet and fresh with a syrupy mouthfeel indicative of the Sauternes wine that once occupied the cask.

Edition 3 OF 4: The Rivesaltes Edition

Distilled on 19th September 2008, the Rivesaltes marries our characteristic fresh fruit notes incredibly well with the sweet nutty flavours for which Rivesaltes wine is known. Contrasting sweet and bitter flavours dominate the palate, held together by an underlying barley aroma. The finish is velvety with the flavours from the palate lingering for some time.

All 3 wine finishes were moved to wine casks for final maturation in July 2017.

Edition 4 OF 4: The Cognac Edition

Edition 4 of the French Collection will launch in the second half of 2021, to complete the series.

Graham Eunson, Master Distiller at Tomatin said: “The French Collection is a great example of Tomatin’s dedication to craft and excellence, with each expression showcasing how respective finishing cask affects the original spirit – a concept Tomatin championed in the Cuatro series released in 2014, which was very well received. 

We have produced four remarkable expressions which will appeal to not only whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike, but also a wider audience. On top of this, we are also very excited for consumers to be able to experience each expression with the ambisonic content series launched today.”

The Monbazillac, Sauternes and Rivesaltes Editions (1-3) will retail around £65 RRP and will be available to purchase from 26^th April. Edition 4 of the French Collection, the Cognac Edition, will launch later this year, to complete the series. 

The Tomatin Editions 1-3 immersive content series can be viewed now on the Tomatin website here.

The French Collection will be available to purchase through specialist whisky retailers worldwide and directly from the Tomatin shop here.

Notes:

Tomatin Distillery has been producing and blending malt Scotch whisky since 1897. Over the last 50 years, the distillery has borne witness to vast change. At its peak in the 1970s, Tomatin was the largest distillery in the world operating 23 stills and producing 12 million litres of alcohol every year. Over the last decade, significant time has been invested in rediscovering the distillery, people and values, and in refining the business model to move away from the formerly lucrative bulk commodity market to now focus on Tomatin’s core range of single malts.

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands (near Inverness) and is famous for its portfolio of soft and mellow whiskies, including a core range, a limited-edition range and a premium archive range (prices range from £35 – £10,000). In the last ten years, Tomatin has secured over 60 prestigious awards in a variety of categories, and in 2019 the distillery celebrated its most successful year ever at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition, securing seven Double Gold awards and four Gold awards.

BENRIACH CELEBRATES OPENING OF FIRST OFFICIAL VISITOR CENTRE  

Creative Speyside distillery, Benriach, is gearing up to welcome visitors through the doors of its first ever official visitor centre next month following the completion of a six-figure investment project.

Featuring a bar, tasting lounge, and retail space, the distillery’s visitor experience will open on Friday 21 May 2021. Initially offering a variety of flavour-focused tastings following the easing of Scotland’s COVID-19 restrictions, visitors will be encouraged to discover Benriach’s multi-layered Single Malt and rich creative heritage dating back to 1898.

The project follows the recent unveiling of Benriach’s new portfolio, and marks the first phase of the distillery visitor centre renovations, as part of a major investment initiative by Brown-Forman, who acquired the distillery in 2016.

Initially the new visitor centre will offer two tasting experiences which will appeal to both single malt lovers and those at the beginning of their whisky journey. The ‘Sense of Flavour’ tasting will delve into the production process at Benriach, before zoning in on the distillery’s classic and smoky expressions at 10 and 12 years old. Visitors will also have the chance to explore their own flavour preferences with whisky by trying Benriach in simple cocktail serves.

A deconstructed cask tasting will also be on offer for those who wish to dive deeper into the distillery’s creative heritage of eclectic cask maturation. The ‘Barrels, Butts, and Barriques’ experience will offer visitors the chance to taste five individual cask types, culminating in a tasting of the Benriach 21 Year Old – showcasing how Benriach’s Master Blender, Dr. Rachel Barrie builds rich layers of flavour in a range of fruit-forward single malts.

Visitors are advised to pre-book their preferred tasting online before attending the distillery. Distillery tours of the production site will return when it is safe to do so.

With its design rooted in tradition whilst looking to the future, the new visitor centre has been built using natural materials from local suppliers wherever possible and has drawn from the natural colour palette of Speyside to inspire its interior. External to the visitor building, one of the distillery’s most prominent warehouses has been whitewashed and branded to cement Benriach’s new identity – a practice traditionally adopted by ancient distilleries in Scotland.

Jennifer Proctor, Visitor Centre Manager at Benriach Distillery, said:

“The last year has been significant in Benriach’s journey with the launch of the distillery’s new flavour forward portfolio, so the unveiling of our first ever visitor centre is a special moment.

From cask tastings to cocktails, we’ll initially be offering two flight-style tasting experiences that allow customers to explore Benriach’s flavour spectrum.  When restrictions allow, we will reveal our full distillery tour offering and announce the next phase of the distillery visitor centre development. Whether a local to Speyside or visitor from further afield, we look forward to welcoming guests from near and afar to discover Benriach’s world of flavour.”

Known for its long-standing tradition of distilling classic, peated and triple distilled whisky and a vast eclectic cask inventory sourced from around the world, Benriach unveiled its new portfolio last year, which has been artistically crafted by Master Blender Rachel Barrie and the distillery team.

For more information about the new Benriach Visitor Centre and how to book a tasting experience, click here.

Notes 

Sense of Flavour Experience – £20, 6 visitors max from 2 household bubbles

Barrels, Butts and Barriques Experience: £45, 6 visitors max from 2 household bubbles

The tasting experiences and shop will initially open weekly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:30AM – 5:00PM. Bookings are required to attend the tasting experiences.

To pre-book a tasting experience please visit the distillery tour section of our website.

About Benriach Distillery

For more details on the new portfolio please visit www.benriach.com

A Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky as intriguing and extraordinary as Benriach could not have come to be without a unique whisky making heritage, dating from 1898, when founder John Duff built his distillery. Ruggedly beautiful, Benriach stands on the site of the old Riach farm in north Speyside, drawing water from a mineral-rich aquifer, deep beneath the distillery.

Thanks to a long-standing tradition of distilling three styles of whisky; classic unpeated, Highland peated and triple distilled, together with an eclectic selection of casks from around the world, our whisky makers are able to explore the full flavour possibilities of Single Malt, creating some of the richest, most multi-layered whiskies in Speyside.

This tradition continues today, under the guidance of Master Blender, Rachel Barrie. Benriach is the story of a hidden Speyside gem, quietly revealing its treasures to be discovered and savoured.

Facebook – @Benriach

Instagram – @Benriach

Twitter – @TheBenriach

David Boyd Private Cask Series Macallan 30yo at The Scottish Gantry

Retail Whisky specialists The Scottish Gantry have released the second bottling of their David Boyd Private Cask Series. Following on from the initial and highly successful Macallan 26y/o release, they are delighted to bring to the market their Macallan 30y/o.

Only 220 bottles make up the second of the David Boyd series, with this release having been finished in a Pedro Ximenez Sherry Cask.

This decadent diva, is of a rich mahogany colour, with notes of soft apricots, roasted almonds and cinnamon accompanying a delicate aroma of dried figs. On the palate, savour dark chocolate and orange, whilst the stunning sweetness of muscovado sugar contrasts and balances with the sherry notes of aniseed, dates and raisins.

Beautifully packaged in a highly polished presentation box, it retails at £1995. Further information can be obtained by contacting the shops on 0141 956 4040 or 01786 450873

THE MALT WHISKY TRAIL PREPARES WARM WELCOME FOR UK WHISKY LOVERS 

The Malt Whisky Trail prepares for the welcome return of whisky lovers from across the UK from 26th April, as those dreaming of a dram are now able to journey across Scotland in line with the ease of travel restrictions and the gradual reopening of retail, hospitality and tourism.

Several centres of whisky excellence are readying to reopen their doors and welcome guests to shop, tour and taste from Monday including The Glenlivet, Glen Moray and Glen Grant.

Iain Allan, Board Member of The Malt Whisky Trail and Brand Ambassador and Visitor Centre Manager at Glen Moray Distillery, said:

“After a long winter in lockdown, distillery teams across The Trail are looking forward to greeting Speyside locals yearning for a daytrip as well as staycationers venturing from all over the UK. In addition to visiting some of the most world-renowned distilleries, tourists will have the opportunity to experience some of the best food, drink, and natural beauty Speyside has to offer.

“With special measures in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and staff, we’ve adjusted our services to ensure visitors are able to taste and purchase our whisky, be it in slightly smaller groups, or as part of a designated driver pack.

“For anyone planning to visit a site along The Trail, should contact sites directly to check opening details and book in advance as offerings will vary.”

Glenlivet, Strathisla and Glen Moray Distilleries will be reopening their retail shops as well as offering new outdoor tastings for visitors, while Glen Grant Distillery will be reopening their retail store for guests to purchase their favourite whiskies. Dallas Dhu, Strathisla, Speyside Cooperage, Benromach and Cardhu will announce their reopening schedule soon.

Scotland’s Speyside region is home to the highest concentration of distilleries in the world, and produces the highest volume of single malt globally, with three out of five visitors to the increasingly popular region coming for whisky tourism.

The Trail, made up of nine iconic whisky sites through the picturesque Moray Speyside region, takes visitors on a journey to discover the best of Malt Whisky Country including its landscape, larder and whisky. From visiting world-renowned to boutique distilleries, to learning a thing or two about the industry’s history from local whisky masters at sites such as the historic Dallas Dhu Distillery and the Speyside Cooperage, a variety of experiences are on offer.

For booking information prospective visitors should directly contact the sites on The Malt Whisky Trail ahead of travel. For all contact details please visit www.maltwhiskytrail.com/malt-whisky-country/distilleries 

Notes:

Details on bookings and experiences available:

• GlenGrant Distillery – shop only to reopen
• Glenlivet – shop only and outdoor tastings between 1300-1630 on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 28th April to 21st May. Must book tastings
• Glen Moray Distillery – tastings (outdoors only, not fully tutored), coffee shop and shop to open. Monday to Friday only
• Strathisla – tasting flights and samples (not always tutored, outdoors only) and shop to open Tuesday to Saturday from noon till 1600
• Dallas Dhu, Strathisla, Speyside Cooperage, Benromach and Cardhu TBA

About the Malt Whisky Trail:

The Malt Whisky Trail® includes nine sites each with at least a four star visitor centre promoting the very best of Scottish hospitality and tourism. The trail consists of the following Speyside distilleries and a cooperage: Benromach, Cardhu, Dallas Dhu, Glen Grant, Glen Moray, Glenfiddich, The Glenlivet, Strathisla and Speyside Cooperage.

Visit www.maltwhiskytrail.com to plan your adventure along the Trail and create your own personal itinerary to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Instagram and Facebook: @themaltwhiskytrail
Twitter: @TheMWT

This week saw the launch of whisky themed cartoons by Henry Philip. Henry worked in the whisky industry, before leaving his job last year to start an MSc in Brewing and Distilling at Heriot Watt University.

Combining his passion for whisky and drawing, Henry attempts to showcase the character of the Scottish people through his humorous drawings. When asked what inspires his drawings Henry said ‘Definitely the cheeky self deprecating sense of humour us Scots have. I like to look back at old whisky adverts that featured hand drawn cartoons, radiating that dry Scottish humour.’

Henry’s drawings can be seen on his website (www.whiskycartoons.co.uk). He’s chosen to partner with local framers ‘A&M Sproson’ in an attempt to showcase quality local business. Henry also does a monthly cartoon for the Ardnamurchan Distillery newsletter.

www.whiskycartoons.co.uk

Earth Day Champions: UK Introduces world’s largest American white oak repository and genome mapping study with Maker’s Mark® 

LORETTO, Ky., (April 22, 2021) – This Earth Day 2021, the University of Kentucky is proud to announce the establishment of the world’s largest repository of American white oak as part of their groundbreaking effort with Maker’s Mark^® to conserve, explore and secure the future of American white oak. The massive effort at Star Hill Farm, home to the iconic Maker’s Mark Distillery, represents the most comprehensive natural range of white oak to date anywhere in the world. The American white oak repository is part of a larger mission to transform the conservation of a species critical to many American industries, including Kentucky bourbon, and to prioritize the present and future of forests and rivers.

UK Department of Forestry and Natural Resources tree improvement specialist Laura DeWald is leading a project collecting more than 300 unique families of white oak from across the United States to plant at Star Hill Farm. The first planting took place on April 15, successive plantings over the next several years will result in the largest single white oak genetic repository in the United States. This repository will provide the foundation for research and tree improvement to address current and future threats to white oak trees and the millions of acres of forests they dominate. It will also support white oak-dependent industries that contribute billions of dollars to rural and urban economies across the region.

This American white oak repository is the second phase of an unparalleled collaboration between UK and Maker’s Mark, which also includes the world’s first comprehensive effort to map the white oak genome. Working with Maker’s Mark and the cooperage Independent Stave Company, the UK team is studying the genetics of the mother tree, called “MM1” at the Star Hill Farm, which is one of the oldest white oaks in Kentucky. It has been exposed to incredible climate variations and is estimated to be 300 to 500 years old. Data from this study will give UK, ISC and Maker’s Mark information about the longevity, disease resistance and vitality that American white oak can offer to the bourbon industry and beyond.

“We have lost or are fast losing some of our most valuable tree species in the U.S. such as ash, chestnut and elm due to disease and pests,” said Seth DeBolt, Beam Institute director. “This collaboration, the combination of the white oak genetic fingerprint and the germplasm planted solely at Star Hill Farm, will allow us to prepare for any future risk to this organism. In simple terms, if a risk arises, we can look for examples of natural variation within the germplasm that can tolerate new pests or even different climates. Maker’s Mark is absolutely leading the way in the bourbon industry when it comes to looking at the sustainable future of the natural resources used to make bourbon. If other threatened species had this level of support, we would have a huge leg up in protecting our ecosystems.”

Rob Samuels, eighth-generation whiskey producer at Maker’s Mark, said the distillery k is committed to the partnership.

“We’re so honored to work with the experts from UK who share a common passion with our team for ensuring the sustainable future of the American white oak, and we’re excited for Star Hill Farm to be the new home of this essential repository and study, in addition to the home of Maker’s Mark Bourbon,” he said. “At Maker’s Mark we are fully committed to going beyond the practice of being good stewards of the environment, as we aim to be one of the most environmentally conscious and beneficial brands in the world.”

“To do something like this that talks about the sustainability of a tree species, it will take a long time for the work being done here to come to fruition, so it takes a vision and commitment,” said Jeff Stringer, UK Forestry and Natural Resources department chair. “Maker’s Mark understands that. They have seen that vision and understand it and are in it for the long haul. They are willing to put in the effort and resources to make this work. It may take 50, 70, 90 years for any barrels to come from this research and that’s a long-term vision that many companies don’t have these days. Maker’s Mark does.”

The partnership between UK and Maker’s Mark began nearly two years ago as one piece of the iconic bourbon brand’s vision to protect and sustain natural resources by not only supporting the white oak forest, but regenerating forest production with healthy, sustainable and superior trees. This unique collaboration highlights the unparalleled passion and emphasis that Maker’s Mark is pushing forward to protect the state’s natural resources, which will be vital to the future of bourbon, Kentucky’s signature beverage.

“The commitment of Maker’s Mark and Independent Stave Company will substantially improve the sustainability of this species, other forest species and this signature industry,” said Nancy Cox, UK vice president for land-grant engagement and dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “We cannot thank them enough for their partnership, vision and sense of community.”

UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, through its land-grant mission, reaches across the commonwealth with teaching, research and extension to enhance the lives of Kentuckians.

#Glenmorangie #madetomix       

Glenmorangie creates single malt whisky “made to mix”

— Crafted with top bartenders, X by Glenmorangie inspires delicious mixed drinks —

Glenmorangie today releases a new single malt Scotch whisky specially made for mixing. Crafted with top bartenders, X by Glenmorangie’s sweeter, richer taste is perfect for tall, simple serves, which promise to refresh the way single malt whisky is enjoyed.

Glenmorangie’s whisky creators are endlessly imaginative in their quest to dream up delicious whiskies. They make their more delicate, fruity spirit in Scotland’s tallest stills, and age it in the world’s finest casks. Inspired by the flavour possibilities their whisky can bring when mixed, they consulted with a range of top global bartenders, to craft X by Glenmorangie. 

This luscious whisky is an extravaganza of flavours, from pear, vanilla and honeysuckle to orange sherbet and chocolate fudge. Expertly created from a combination of whisky aged in bourbon casks, and some finished in new char oak casks, its sweet and rich taste both complements and cuts through all manner of mixers, for delicious drinks.

To inspire mixing, Glenmorangie has designed a series of refreshingly simple serves – each needing just 2-4 ingredients and easy to make at home using X by Glenmorangie. They include takes on familiar classics (Glenmorangie X Tonic, Glenmorangie X Cola) and swizzle-style drinks for fun-filled occasions, (Glenmorangie X Brunch, Glenmorangie X Date Night, Glenmorangie X Karaoke Party and more). The recipes can be found on www.glenmorangie.com and on the single malt’s social channels.

Dr Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s Director of Whisky Creation, said: “X by Glenmorangie came from our dream of creating even more flavour possibilities, with a single malt that’s made to mix. Consulting with top bartenders, we crafted this sweeter, richer single malt for all those enjoying mixing at home.

“Luscious with vanilla and pear, succulent orange and honeysuckle, all drizzled with chocolate fudge, X by Glenmorangie is perfect paired with a favourite mixer. So, whether you’re planning a brunch or a date night or want to experiment with your own flavour combinations, this whisky will bring your drink the x-factor!”

X by Glenmorangie will be available from Clos19.com, Amazon and whisky specialists from 1^st May 2021, RRP: £30.

lenmorangie.com

Follow Glenmorangie on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Glenmorangie

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheGlenmorangie 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glenmorangie

NOTES: 

About X by Glenmorangie

X by Glenmorangie is bottled at 40% ABV.

This lusciously free-wheeling whisky has succulent aromas of pear, vanilla and honeysuckle and oranges. They set the stage for an extravaganza of flavour, from swirls of orange sherbet to bursts of creme brûlée drizzled with chocolate fudge.

RRP: £30 

About X by Glenmorangie serves:

Designed to complement all kinds of occasions, and to inspire people to experiment with their favourite mixers and garnishes at home, these serves are easy to make, using only 2-4 ingredients. Most are served tall, over crushed ice in the style of a ‘swizzle’ drink. And there is no need for specialist equipment: they can be mixed as easily with a butter knife as with a bar spoon. Three serves (Glenmorangie X Tonic, Glenmorangie X Sangria & Glenmorangie X Peach), will be showcased on a neck tag accompanying the bottle. More serves will be revealed when drinkers scan a QR code and can also be found at www.glenmorangie.com. Their recipes can be found in the accompanying document. 

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s Highland whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to dream up delicious single malt whiskies. Known as the Distillers of Tain, they’ve been honing their craft for more than 175 years. In Scotland’s tallest stills, whose necks are as high as a giraffe, they produce a delicate and fruity spirit, ripe for experimentation. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this crackerjack crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

Responsible Drinking:

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

HolyXXXX, the Holyrood Distillery Courtyard Bar is Back!

Holyrood Distillery’s Courtyard Bar is set to return with a range of carefully selected drinks from local independent brewers and distillers and a delicious food menu.

The Courtyard Bar, which ran for the first time over the summer of 2020, will open on Monday 26th April, at Holyrood Distillery: the first single malt distillery in Edinburgh for almost 100 years. The area outside the striking distillery, just off St Leonard’s Lane, will be transformed into a relaxed al fresco bar and bistro space for a summer social.

Visitors to the bar will be first in line to try new drinks from the distillery.

Alongside drinks from Holyrood Distillery, the bar will also support other local businesses emerging from lockdown by showcasing the best in independent brewing and distilling: including draught pints by Pilot, Barneys and Crossborders and some of the best new whiskies from across Scotland, including Isle of Raasay and Nc’Nean.

Award-winning Edinburgh caterer Hickory will be providing a unique menu with dishes including Hickory’s signature sandwich and salad, chicken tenders, and chili cheese fries, as well as hot drinks. An ice-cream tricycle will also be serving up scoops.

A covered and heated seating area will also be available.

Opening on 26th April, the Holyrood Distillery Courtyard Bar will be a safe space for families and friends to come together. Children will be welcome with their family group until 7pm.  The bar will be open daily from 1pm to 8pm in the first week, and then on Thursdays to Saturdays from 1pm to 9pm, and on Sundays 12pm-6pm. Service will initially be table-service only, with contactless orders via an online app. Tables will seat a maximum of 6 people, with an overall capacity of up to 120. Pre-booking is highly recommended: details can be found at www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk alongside full opening hours.

The Distillery Shop will also reopen from 26th April. Here visitors can get first dibs on Holyrood Distillery’s new gin, HolyXXXX, alongside a selection of local craft beer and spirits.  Draught pints, growlers and G&T picnic packs will also be available to takeaway – perfect for enjoying at home, in Holyrood Park or after climbing Arthur’s Seat.

Holyrood Distillery’s Brand Home Manager, Debs Newman said:

“We are absolutely delighted to be able to reopen our Courtyard as a sunny, safe and social space; for friends, families and neighbours to come together again. After a massively challenging year for everyone, and a particularly tough time for the hospitality industry, I know the distillery team will all be very emotional to see people back here again, enjoying the space, and supporting the other small distillers and brewers that we are showcasing”.

Recently recognised as ‘Visitor Attraction of the Year’ at Icons of Whisky 2021 Awards, Holyrood Distillery’s Tours and Experiences will reopen in June. Tickets can be pre-booked at www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk.

Pre-booking for the Courtyard Bar is recommended and Holyrood Distillery asks all visitors to adhere to government guidance and onsite direction.

Find out more about the Holyrood Distillery Courtyard Bar at https://www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk/courtyard-bar/

Holyrood Distillery, 19 St Leonard’s Lane, Edinburgh EH8 9SH. 0131 285 8977 www.holyrooddistillery.co.uk Twitter @HolyroodWhisky Facebook @Holyrooddistillery Instagram @Holyrooddistillery