BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY’S W.L. WELLER BOURBON SETS A GLOBAL STANDARD 

Whiskey Drinker Influenced “Craft Your Perfect Bourbon” Named World’s Best 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (April 15, 2021) Whisky Magazine has recognized W.L. Weller “Craft Your Perfect Bourbon” (C.Y.P.B.) as both Best Kentucky Bourbon and World’s Best Bourbon at the 2021 World Whiskies Awards.

“Whiskey drinkers played a key role in the crafting of this wheated bourbon,” said Joshua Steely, brand director, bourbon. “A few years ago, we asked whiskey drinkers to choose their ideal bourbon recipe, proof, warehouse location and age through a fun, interactive online activity called Craft Your Perfect Bourbon. This bourbon is the result of overwhelming whiskey drinker consensus―a wheated recipe bourbon aged on the highest warehouse floors for eight years and bottled at 95 proof. We are humbled to receive recognition for this collaborative effort.”

            Tasting notes describe Weller C.Y.P.B. as having a nose of citrus and oak. The palate is well rounded and balanced, with a medium-long finish and hints of vanilla.

Whiskies competing in each category were subject to blind tastings in a three-round judging process to select, reward and promote the world’s best whiskies to consumers and trade worldwide. For more information about the World Whiskies Awards visit www.worldwhiskiesawards.com.

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 1773 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.

Arrogant Consortia and Foundry Distilling Co. Collaborate To Release Arrogant Bastard Whiskey

West Des Moines, IA (April 16, 2021) – Fans of Arrogant Consortia’s aggressively bold, hoppy Arrogant Bastard Ale rejoice! Iowa-based Foundry Distilling Co. has collaborated with Arrogant Consortia to distill the mash bill of Arrogant Bastard beer into a 97-proof American malt whiskey. The result of this team-up is a unique whiskey that embodies the strong punch of a beer that’s subliminally sublime, and it’s set to be unleashed to the world throughout April 2021.

“We are excited for people to try this one-of-a-kind world-class whiskey,” said Scott Bush, owner of Foundry Distilling Company. “It has been a great pleasure working with Arrogant Consortia to distill an amazing spirit.”

Arrogant Bastard Whiskey started as mash produced from Arrogant Consortia in Escondido, California. The notorious ale’s unfermented worry was then transported to be refined at Foundry Distilling Co.’s distillery, located in the Historic Valley Junction area of West Des Moines, Iowa. This whiskey has been aged for 26 months in 30-gallon new charred American oak barrels and has notes of citrus, herbal tea, and allspice with a finish that consists of a warming, bright citrus zest.

Arrogant Bastard Whiskey is currently available for purchase in limited quantities in Iowa and at Foundry Distilling Co., while beer and spirit enthusiasts in California can expect to get their hands on this whiskey on April 20th, 2021.

This truly unique collaboration is made possible by Foundry Distilling Co.’s Brewer-Distiller Alliance initiative, which aims to work with outstanding breweries across the nation to produce remarkable, distinctive whiskeys from their beer recipes. The breweries produce the wort using their recipes, and Foundry then ferments, distills, and barrel ages the spirit to create whiskey. Foundry Distilling Company and its partners have generated a diverse collection of exclusive limited-edition whiskeys.

Bush stated, “The opportunity to work with such top-tier breweries such as Arrogant Consortia to make astonishing whiskeys is an honor. Arrogant Bastard Whiskey, as with all of our collaborations, is something exceptional that we’re sure you won’t want to miss.”

For more information about the Arrogant Bastard Whiskey or the Brewer-Distiller Alliance, visit foundrydistillingcompany.com/arrogant-bastard-ale/. 

About Arrogant Consortia

Arrogant Consortia is a wholly-owned imprint of Stone Brewing. Its often aggressive and always self-righteous lineup of beers includes Arrogant Bastard Ale and Bourbon Barrel-Aged Arrogant Bastard Ale, among others. The world-renowned brewery is well-known for waving the proud flag of independent craft brewing while rallying against the bland, boring nature of industrialized, commodified “fizzy yellow beer.”

About Foundry Distilling Co.

Foundry Distilling Co. strives to be one of the most innovative distilleries in the world by providing unique products, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like our Private Barrel Club, and collaborating with an alliance of nationally recognized breweries, known as the Brewer-Distiller Alliance. Their flagship product, The Real Stuff is made from a mash of grain and cane and aged in charred oak kegs, and is an attempt to recreate the actual process used to make the legendary “Off-the-Farm” spirit of rural Iowa farmers. To learn more, please visit www.foundrydistillingcompany.com.

ONE WEEK UNTIL WORLD’S LARGEST WHISKY FESTIVAL TAKES ITS 21ST ANNUAL EVENT ONLINE

With just under a week to go whisky fans are being called on to snap up the last remaining tickets for this year’s highly anticipated Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. Kicking off its 21st year of celebrating the region’s finest Scotch Malts, the jam-packed programme of virtual events begins online Thursday 29th April 2021.

From behind the scenes distillery tours to musical whisky pairings, and conversations with industry legends to cocktail masterclasses, ticket holders will have over 60 events to choose from over the course of the four-day virtual festival.

Both Single Malt aficionados and those at the beginning of their whisky journey can expect to experience the true spirit of the festival through its first ever interactive online event. Hosted on virtual platform, Airmeet, the festival will allow people to come together from all over the world to celebrate all things Scotch.

James Campbell, Chairman at The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, said: 

“The response to this year’s virtual festival has been fantastic with over 500 tickets sold and there’s still time for those thinking about attending to purchase a pass via the Spirit of Speyside website. We are very much looking forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world to the festival which is celebrating its 21st year.

“In true Spirit of Speyside style, our distillers have done a magnificent job and we have a wide variety of events lined up whether it’s learning something completely new about whisky making from our world renowned Master Blenders or immersing yourself in the stories of the largest whisky producing region in the world to top cocktail making tips, we invite you to join us in celebrating the very best of our iconic whisky making region.”

Festival passes which provide access to all events are still available to purchase via the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival website. In addition to the extensive programme of events on offer, guests will also have the opportunity to socialise virtually in the festival’s lounge area, and can tune in to additional Q&A sessions with representatives from Speyside’s iconic distilleries in their respective ‘booths’. 

Festival passes can be purchased online at https://www.spiritofspeyside.com/festivals/virtual/events for £15.

Notes:

Event highlights and last minute suggestions:

• The Malt Whisky Trail – Taste the Trail
  Taste your way along the sites of The Malt Whisky Trail in this interactive tasting hosted by Stephanie Murray of The Dowans Hotel – an iconic Speyside hotel famous for its whisky bar. Exploring drams from distilleries including Glen Grant, Glen Moray and Benromach, this event will take you on a virtual whistle-stop tour of the sites along this world-famous whisky trail, giving you a taste of its delicious whiskies and the varied experiences there are to discover. Stephanie will be joined by special guests from The Trail to discuss their favourite drams and their favourite hidden gems in Speyside – perfect inspiration for those planning a staycation to Speyside this summer.
• Friday Mixology with Strathisla Distillery 
  Friday night is cocktail night with Strathisla Distillery and an opportunity to explore the single cask Distillery Reserve Collection and signature Chivas Regal serves. Joined by Rhys Wilson, International Brand Ambassador, plus special guest bartender, attendees will explore cocktail culture and cask strength serves through a tutored tasting of Strathisla and the latest trends.
• The Legacy of Mr. George – Stephen Rankin in Conversation with Charles MacLean
  Join Director of Prestige, Stephen Rankin and whisky legend Charles MacLean to celebrate the life and work of George Urquhart. This is a unique opportunity to taste whiskies that were matured by Mr George, hear stories about his life and travels and learn how George’s vision has influenced his family to create the oldest and rarest whiskies in the world.
• Balvenie Archives Tasting with Charlie Metcalfe
  Balvenie Distillery Ambassadors Charlie Metcalfe and James Roberts are avid collectors and fountains of knowledge when it comes to some of the past rarer bottlings of Balvenie. Join them to hear a story or two and taste a hand-picked selection of legendary bottles of Balvenie that now are a piece of history. David C Stewart (MBE), whose pioneering techniques have had a profound impact on the production methods used today, will join the Distillery Ambassadors for a Q&A. He has dedicated 54 years of his life to the whisky industry and it is an opportunity not to be missed!
• The Glenlivet Scotch Whisky School
  A unique experience in the company of The Glenlivet’s Lyndsey Gray and guest speaker Neil Ridley giving you the opportunity to break tradition and complete The Glenlivet’s Whisky School in just one hour!

About the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

First launched in 1999, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival’s annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink has developed into one of the largest events of its kind anywhere in the world. The Festival is a mecca for the curious beginner and the whisky connoisseur alike. Over the past 20 years, festival events have taken place throughout Speyside, the biggest whisky producing region in Scotland, located in the Moray area in the North-East of the county between Aberdeen and Inverness. This year is the first year that the festival has adopted an online format.

Over the years, the Festival has developed close links with many Speyside businesses and communities who help to fund the festival. It is a true team effort to deliver an ever-improving range of events and services to make the Festival a truly unforgettable experience.

The company is limited by guarantee, it runs the festival with a voluntary board of directors drawn from key areas of the whisky industry along with other local businesses and tourism organisations.

About the Virtual Festival

This event will be hosted on the Airmeet, an interactive virtual events platform that will bring the festival to life whilst everyone is at home.
The festival will have live events, recorded tours, a social lounge for meeting new friends and whisky lovers, speed networking, an exhibition centre and much more – making it the most interactive virtual whisky festival ever.
The festival pass provides access to all events taking place during the event.
For tasting events, pass-holders can still attend without a tasting kit if they have missed the postal deadline.

For further information please visit:

Website:  www.spiritofspeyside.com 
Facebook: WhiskyFestival
Instagram: spirit_speyside
Twitter:  spirit_speyside

DISCOVER LAIR UPON LAIR OF FLAVOUR IN ARDBEG SCORCH – THE DISTILLERY’S LATEST LIMITED EDITION

#Ardbeg #Islay #ArdbegScorch #ArdbegDay2021 #Scorch

– The Ardbeg Distillery invites its noble fandom to join them for an online extravaganza and uncover the ‘lairs’ of flavour in their latest limited edition –

Held annually on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt (Fèis Ìle), Ardbeg Day is a global celebration of all things Ardbeg, which this year will take place entirely online. The Distillery invites smoky malt whisky lovers and fantasy buffs everywhere to join them on Ardbeg.com and social media, as fans come together to uncover the myth and the malt behind their new limited edition, Ardbeg Scorch.

Islay folk have long told tales of the island’s dragon, bravely slain by a heroic warrior many moons ago. And on 5 June 2021, Ardbeggians around the world will celebrate Ardbeg Day with a new whisky created in homage to this ‘true myth’. It is said this fiercely delicious dram is the mouthwatering product of Ardbeg’s own flavour-breathing beast, who dwells in Dunnage Warehouse No. 3, scorching staves and burning barrels…

Ardbeg Scorch has been matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks – heavily charred by the fiery exhale of Warehouse 3’s definitely-real-and-totally-not-made-up dragon*. Intense aromas of soot and smoke lie in wait, while grilled fare and black liquorice mingle with bold notes of medicinal lozenge. This truly is a dram of fantastical proportions.

Colin Gordon, Ardbeg’s Distillery Manager, said: “This year will be my first Ardbeg Day ever: a baptism of fire! It’s a shame we Ardbeggians can’t enjoy it together in person, but the online event is shaping up to be tremendous fun. With a whole virtual world to explore, including fantasy inns, campfire tales, medieval feasts and live tastings, there’s plenty for people to be excited about this year.”

Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation, Dr Bill Lumsden, said: “Ardbeg Scorch is our tribute to the legendary dragon of Islay. By using our most heavily-charred casks, we’ve created a fire-breathing beast of a dram!” 

Ardbeg Scorch will be available to buy from Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists, online retailers and from the Distillery Visitor Centre from 27^th May 2021, RRP: £100. For more news on this event and all things Ardbeg, smoky malt whisky fans can join the Ardbeg Committee at Ardbeg.com.

www.ardbeg.com

Follow us on:

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

Twitter: @Ardbeg

Instagram: @ardbeg

TASTING NOTES: 

Colour

Bright brushed gold

Nose

On the nose, frighteningly intense aromas of soot and smoke lie in wait. Hints of aniseed and fragrant patchouli interlace with bold notes of quenched steel and saddle soap. With a drop of water, herbal top notes of briar wood, sage and pine wisp their way to the fore.

Taste

Take a sip and experience lair upon lair of flavour. An oily mouthfeel grips the senses. Billowy clouds of sweet smoke and dragon charred oak permeate the palate, while grilled fare and black liquorice weave between notes of medicinal lozenge.

Finish

A long and heroic finale, with a subtle tarry aftertaste. A finish that will drag on, well into its happily ever after.

ABV: 46%

RRP: £100 

NOTES: 

Ardbeg:

Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky. Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts. Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’. During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction. Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following.  

Ardbeg Committee:

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee. The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”. Today there are more than 100,000 members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 130 countries. Committee members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings. Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events. The Committee, chaired by Mickey Heads, is free to join at Ardbeg.com.

Awards:

Ardbeg is the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whisky. Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions. Ardbeg has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards in 2010, and 2013. At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’. The following year, Ardbeg’s expressions took the top three spots in Whisky Advocate magazine’s review of the best single malt Scotch whiskies under US$100.  Meanwhile, both Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Ardbeg Uigeadail have been awarded gold medals at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. In 2019, Dr Bill Lumsden was awarded Master Distiller of the Year for the third time in four years. Ardbeg 10 Years Old also won the Best Single Malt Scotch 10 Year Old at the International Whisky Competition 2019, while the Ardbeg Distillery won the Distillery of the Year 2019.

The Glenmorangie Company:

The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt.

Responsible Drinking:

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

Iconic brand, Including Bottled-In-Bond, will now be made at Barton 1792 Distillery

BARDSTOWN, KENTUCKY (Apr. 8, 2021) – Following the purchase of Early Times whiskey in 2020 by Sazerac Company, the notable American whiskey brand will begin distillation, aging and bottling at the 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, KY this summer. First introduced by John Henry “Jack” Beam, uncle of Jim Beam in 1860, Early Times whiskey has rich American roots that will prove a valuable addition to Sazerac’s deep whiskey portfolio.

The Early Times whiskey acquisition comes not only with a historic origin, but a Bronze Medal from the 2021 American World Whiskies Awards as well. Whiskies in each category were subject to blind tastings in a three-round judging process to select, reward and promote the world’s best whiskies to consumers and trade across the globe.

   A magnitude of enthusiasm stems from the Early Times Bottled-in-Bond expression, in particular as a connector to the brand’s early pre-Prohibition era offering. With sweet notes of caramel corn and traces of cinnamon spice, the Early Times Bottled-in-Bond expression has rapidly become a fan favorite. Though Early Times will have a new home, Barton 1792 Distillery will continue to deliver the same great tasting Early Times Bottled-in-Bond product that consumers have grown to love using the original recipe and mash bill.

“We are excited to add such an iconic brand to the Barton 1792 Distillery,” said Adam Wilkins, brand manager, Sazerac Company. “The strong American whiskey lineage of Early Times will be a valuable inclusion to our existing whiskey portfolio.”

With a new source of production, consumers can expect the well-known Early Times BIB whiskey to uphold the Bottled-in-Bond Act regulations and continue to be bottled at 50% ABV (100 Proof).

About Barton 1792 Distillery

Barton 1792 Distillery is part of Barton Brands.  Barton Brands has facilities in Bardstown, Ky., Carson, Calif., and Baltimore, Md. Barton Brands is owned by the Sazerac Company, an American family-owned company based in New Orleans, La. Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operating Distillery in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Distillery is located on 196 acres and includes 28 warehouses, 22 other buildings, the Morton Spring and the Tom Moore Spring.  Distilling, aging and bottling fine Bourbon whiskey are hallmarks of the historic Barton 1792 Distillery. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is produced at Barton 1792 Distillery and is named for the year Kentucky became a state. The Distillery has garnered a number of prestigious awards for its whiskies, including its 1792 Full Proof, which was named the World Whiskey of the Year for 2020.  To learn more visit www.1792bourbon.com.

SCOTTISH GLASSMAKING FIRM LAUNCHES BESPOKE TARTAN

An award-winning Scottish glassmaking firm has created its own Tartan – Whisky and Water by Angels’ Share Glass.

The Stirling company developed the unique tartan with the help of the team at Prickly Thistle who specialise in creating bespoke designs.

Angels’ Share Glass Managing Director Karen Somerville worked closely with Clare Campbell, founder of Highlands-based Prickly Thistle, to come up with a design which would reflect the glassmakers’ story and complement its products.

Three designs were shortlisted and put to a public vote which led overwhelmingly to the choice of the teal blue and gold option – Whisky and Water.

Karen says: “As a proud Scottish business, it was only fitting that we would one day produce our very own tartan to reflect our heritage and the story of how our brand has developed since we launched eight years ago.

“We were delighted with the ideas generated by Prickly Thistle and loved all of the designs Clare developed – but we agree with our supporters and customers that the Whisky and Water design is the best fit for us.”

Prickly Thistle is the firm behind the creation of Outlander star Sam Heughan’s Sassenach tartan and designed the limited-edition tartan weaved for the National Trust for Scotland’s Save Our Scotland Appeal.

Clare says: “It was an absolute joy to work with Karen and hear the lovely stories behind Angels’ Share Glass.

“We worked together to create a flagship tartan using the iconic colours which reflect the brand and all the wonderful imagery and connections inspired by the colours of whisky and glass and by Karen’s father Tom Young’s glassmaking legacy.

“I’m thrilled that everyone loved the Whisky and Water design which was chosen and really enjoyed going on the journey with Karen and her team which led to the creation of the tartan which tells their story.”

Angels’ Share Glass specialises in creating whisky-based glass gifts, many of which include tartan in their presentation, and Karen had been considering producing a bespoke tartan for some time.

She says: “Customers would often ask us if we had our own design to include in the gift sets and staves where we use tartan and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do as a Scottish company which is proud of its heritage.

“Working with Clare to develop the perfect design was fantastic because she is so passionate about storytelling and was determined to find out all about us so she could weave our history and our stories into the design.”

Clare came up with a series of designs for the firm which the team narrowed down to three tartans – Whisky and Wood; Whisky and Water and Whisky and Nature.

These options were voted on by the firm’s many customers, supporters and social media fans with more than 1,000 people completing the survey and a massive 70% voting for Whisky and Water.

Those polled were also asked to put forward name ideas for the tartan before Karen decided on `Whisky and Water by Angels’ Share Glass’ as the perfect title.

She says: “The three designs were all wonderful with the Whisky and Wood colours representing the oak of the whisky barrel which is the wood we use for our staves and Whisky and Nature featuring the black and gold of the flames we use in glassmaking and the black fungus sometimes associated with The Angels’ Share.

“But the Whisky and Water design, representing our brand colours of teal and gold, was the standout winner and a great choice which all of us at Angels’ Share Glass agreed with.

“We’re grateful to all those who voted and quite overwhelmed by the positive response we received as well as some of the unusual entries which were suggested for the tartan names including Greedy Angels and Tartan McTartanFace.

“We’re now looking forward to having our very own tartan woven and using it to complement our products.”

The tartan will now be produced by the Prickly Thistle team at their tartan weaving mill and is expected to be completed by the summer.

It will be used in the presentation of existing products and packaging as well as for creating a range of new gifts including tartan napkins with handmade glass rings, a tartan flat cap and hipflask covers.

For more information about Bridge of Allan-based Angels Share Glass, visit www.angelsshareglass.com

Notes: Angels’ Share Glass is a family-run business based in Bridge of Allan, near Stirling. The firm was co-founded by Karen Somerville and her father Tom Young MBE – a world-renowned Master Craftsman who has been glassblowing and making lamp-work glassware for 60 years. More information about the company can be found at www.angelsshareglass.com

NEW HEAVILY PEATED, CASK EXPLORATION SPECIAL ‘PORT CHARLOTTE PAC:01 2011’ RELEASED FROM BRUICHLADDICH DISTILLERY

Parma ham, Champagne, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Balsamic vinegar of Modena, and Bordeaux winehave all built a signature status based on regionality, with labels protected by law. Their pedigreeis celebrated with geograp hical indicators,such as ‘appellation d’originecontrôlée’(AOCs) that convey the quality of ingredients and the origins of their making.

Under Scotch whisky regulations, the island of Islay is a protected locality for single malts. Whisky must be distilled on Islay in order to bear its name, but the makers of Port Charlotte heavily peated Islay single malt question whether this is enough?With no mention of where the ingredients should come from, or the location of maturation and bottling, a whiskycan, in theory, be created in as little as four days and still be called an ‘Islay’ single malt.

In contrast, French vintners have protected the reputation of their national drink for centuries. They have built a system where appellation is strictly controlled and is a source of pride. With the Islay distillery’s philosophy largely inspired by the world of wine, these French values are readily practiced in all Port Charlotte whiskies. Always matured, distilled and bottled on Islay, these single malts ensure the Islay name respects the wealth of work that made the island famous, and that the benefits of their making are shared into the local community.

In this new Cask Exploration edition, Port Charlotte PAC:01 2011 celebrates the convergence of French and Scottish provenance. Scottish barley, trickle distilled in 2011, has matured for a minimum of six years in American oak casks, before spending the remainder of its life in casks which previously held red wine from the Gironde left bank, north of Bordeaux. Its resultant character is vibrant and full-bodied, with an understated balance of barbeque smoke and an abundance of berry notes.

Bottled at 56.1% abv and available globally from April 2021, the Port Charlotte PAC:01 2011 will replace the Port Charlotte OLC:01 2010 within the Port Charlotte range of Islay single malts.

On Bruichladdich Distillery:

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

• Bruichladdich Distillery crafts four different spirits: o Bruichladdich, unpeated Islay single malt Scotch whisky

• Port Charlotte, heavily peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky (40PPM)

• Octomore, the world’s most heavily peated Scotch whisky series (80+PPM) o The Botanist Gin, the first Islay dry gin

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

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

On the Port Charlotte range:

• The current Port Charlotte range explores the influence of barley origin, cask exploration and the passing of time. The Port Charlotte PAC:01 2011 will replace the Port Charlotte OLC:01 2010 alongside current Port Charlotte 10 and Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2012 listings.

• Port Charlotte spirit was first distilled in 2001, when Bruichladdich Distillery was resurrected after seven years of closure. The single malt whisky is named after the village of Port Charlotte that lies two miles south of Bruichladdich.

Prestige Beverage Group Expands Portfolio with Global Best-Selling

Tullibardine and Highland Queen Whiskies

St. Paul, Minn. – Prestige Beverage Group has added world-renowned Tullibardine and Highland Queen whiskies to its portfolio.

“We’re excited to be the new U.S. partner for Tullibardine and Highland Queen and are proud to add these quality single malt and blended scotch whiskies to our growing spirits portfolio,” said Mike Morgan, President of Prestige Beverage Group.” The ranges of both whiskies will further develop our core spirit offerings and allow us to continue to expand our footprint within the marketplace.”

Tullibardine Distillery is located in Perthshire, Scotland, an area known as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Tullibardine, with a history for the production of alcohol dating back to 1488, when King James IV of Scotland stopped by the site, has a reputation for producing handcrafted, high-quality, Single Malt Scotch whisky. Maintaining its commitment to its artisan heritage, Tullibardine is one of the few remaining family-owned distilleries in Scotland, to distil, mature and bottle on site. With a range of award-winning whiskies, the Tullibardine range is available internationally and is recognized for its quality and experimental single malts.

Founded in 1893 by Roderick Macdonald, Highland Queen derives its name from the association of the port of Leith and the original production site located by harbor, and the triumphal arrival of Mary Queen of Scots at this spot in 1561. She was later to be crowned Queen of Scots, thus creating one of Scotland’s most famous and loved legends. Enjoyed by whisky lovers across the world, Highland Queen is an expertly matured, mellowed and blended whisky with a well-rounded, smooth finish.

“We’re thrilled to build this relationship with Prestige Beverage Group,” said Matthew Johns, Commercial Director at Terroir Distillers which owns both Tullibardine and Highland Queen. “The US market continues to be a strong point for both brands and this partnership will only serve to strengthen our position across the country.”

Tullibardine and Highland Queen are the latest addition to the Prestige Beverage Group portfolio of national and global spirits, including Windsor Canadian Whisky, The Whistler Irish Whiskey and DAVIDOFF Cognac.

About Prestige Beverage Group

Founded in 1974, Prestige Beverage Group is an industry leading importer and brand owner of award-winning wines and spirits from around the globe. Prestige’s portfolio of 70-plus brands includes Windsor Canadian Whisky, Kinky Beverages, Risata Wines, The Whistler Irish Whiskey and Indoggo. From product conception and brand development, to packaging design and engaging marketing initiatives, Prestige continues to meet consumer preferences and anticipate industry trends. For more information about Prestige and its innovative brands, please visit www.prestigebevgroup.com.

Cù Bòcan Unlocks the Unusual
with an Experimental Brand Film

Cù Bòcan has released a new brand film, designed to unlock the unusual, and bring the brand and product range to life on screen.

The experimental Highland Single Malt is distilled every winter in limited batches and made with lightly peated Scottish barley for its signature wisp of smoke. Cù Bòcan also explores innovative maturations, creating whiskies full of intrigue and surprise. The brand film set out to convey these messages within an abstract and modern story arc.

As well as the brand film, three short product films were also produced for each single malt within the range.

The current Cù Bòcan range comprises of three products, the Signature malt matured in Bourbon, Oloroso Sherry and North American Virgin Oak casks, and the first two creations, Creation #1 matured in Black Isle Brewery Imperial Stout and Bacalhôa Moscatel de Setúbal wine casks and Creation #2 matured in Japanese Shochu and European Virgin Oak casks. Each single malt offers an exploration in the subtleties of smoke, the character of the casks and the mastery of maturation. Bottled at 46% ABV, the range is non-chill filtered, natural in colour and carries a no age statement.

Cù Bòcan partnered with filmmaker, cinematographer and Director of Scene it Media, Scott Remy, to create a truly innovative and captivating cinematic experience. Scott, “I have always believed the most important aspect of film-making is emotion. Leaving an impression on the viewer and telling an honest story that is memorable. It’s been really fun making these for Cù Bòcan and so great to create something as unique as they have turned out to be.”

Speaking on the film, Brand Manager Julia Mackillop explains, “in the absence of being able to invite visitors to our brand home we wanted to deliver our story to a global audience in the most visual way possible, showcasing our Highland location, winter production but most importantly our experimental spirit. It was a pleasure to work locally with Scene it Media, who truly brought this project to life”.

Cù Bòcan is available in specialist shops worldwide with an RRP of £45 and £60 per 700ml bottle for the Signature, and Creations #1 and #2 respectively.

Notes:

1. Cù Bòcan is a Highland Single Malt distilled, matured and produced at the Tomatin Distillery (near Inverness), famous for its portfolio of brands including Tomatin Highland Single Malt, The Antiquary, The Talisman and Big T.

2. In 2005, the decision was made to produce a peated single malt and for the last week of production that year a batch of Optic Barley peated to 15ppm was used to produce about 60,000 litres of lightly peated spirit which was filled into a variety of different cask types.

3. Then, on September 3rd 2013 this lightly peated whisky produced at Tomatin was released as Cù Bòcan – A single malt at 15ppm matured in a combination of Bourbon, Sherry and Virgin Oak casks. Since then, the Cù Bòcan brand has grown with a number of vintage releases as part of the brand limited edition collection.

4. The rebrand, August 2019, positions the brand as a celebration in the subtleties of smoke and perfectly balanced sweetness. It is an experimental Highland Single Malt that explores innovative maturation to create whiskies full of intrigue and surprise. It is made with lightly peated Scottish barley, distilled every winter in limited batches and matured
in a variety of interesting casks to unlock unusual flavours.

5. The distillery is owned by Japanese company Takara Shuzo: http://www.takarashuzo.co.jp/english/index.html

6. Website: www.cu-bocan.com
a. Facebook: www.facebook.com/cubocan
b. Twitter: www.twitter.com/cubocanwhisky
c. Instagram: www.instagram.com/cubocanwhisky
d. Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFfCCt2Wkep2Z_pr3PnpVHw

White Peak Distillery set to raise a dram with whisky launch & crowd funding programme

The Peak District’s first full-scale craft Distillery – White Peak – is getting set to release its first ever single malt whisky this autumn.

Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Max & Claire Vaughan – both originally from Derbyshire – White Peak Distillery has gone from strength to strength in its first few years, winning awards for its Distillery visitor experiences, as well as its Shining Cliff Gin and its new make and maturing single malt spirit.

However, it is the launch of White Peak’s first single malt whisky that was the heart of the dream from day one that they are most excited about, set to take place in October 2021. And with a dynamic crowd funding campaign currently gathering momentum and raising funds for the launch, the next few months are poignant for the Distillery’s close-knit team, their loyal supporters and the wider whisky community.

Located in the dramatic former *Johnson & Nephew Wire Works building alongside the River Derwent, within beautiful woodland that forms part of Derbyshire’s Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage site, every aspect of the Distillery and its spirits link back to its heritage-rich setting.

Their first whisky release will be no exception to this.

To build on the Distillery’s successes over the past five years, whilst increasing resources and investment during this pivotal year, the Distillery is currently offering the opportunity to become a shareholder in White Peak, inviting interested parties to consider supporting the crowd funding campaign that is being run through Crowdcube. As part of the growth around the whisky launch, the Distillery plans to add to its team and increase resources across the business, most notable within production, sales and marketing. Whilst the fundraising has already hit its minimum target, the team is looking to offer as many keen investors as possible the chance to be part of the Distillery’s future.

Max Vaughan, Co-founder of White Peak Distillery said: “Our journey over the past five years has been incredibly rewarding. We are so proud to have established the Distillery as a recognised, innovative business within the Peak District, whilst winning awards for our spirits within the drinks industry and our visitor experience within our vital local community.”

“Our team is passionate about the business we’re building: our extraordinary location and its regeneration, the heritage we are building upon and the spirits we are curating as a true taste of our homeland. We are all now excited for the next chapter of our story to unfold with the release of our single malt whisky later this year.”

“To make the most of this opportunity and so that we can accelerate our growth plans, we’ve decided to launch our crowd funding campaign and the interest so far has been amazing.”

Those wanting to discover and taste White Peak’s new single malt whisky will be able to explore more from October 2021 onwards.

Further details about White Peak’s crowd funding campaign can be found within the link below, with the opportunity to invest open until 23rd April 2021:

https://www.crowdcube.com/companies/white-peak-distillery/pitches/Z5no2b

The Distillery will also be reopening for visitors, tours and tastings from 22nd May 2021 – see www.whitepeakdistillery.com for more information.

Notes:

*Johnson & Nephew Wire Works: Formerly used by the industrialists in the 19th Century, metal has been a long-standing feature of the past in the Peak District. The Distillery site was originally used as an iron forge owned by the Hurt family in the early 1800s. The derelict forge was then transformed by the Johnson Family into a wire works in 1876. Johnson & Nephew was a pioneer in wire and cable products, including supplying cable for the first, sub-sea cross channel telegraph service and numerous early suspension bridges. The Wire Works existed for 120 years until its closure in the mid-19 century.