NEW YORK, 13 March 2021 – Moments ago in our New York saleroom, a specialty lot comprising a one-of-a-kind bottle of 1967 whisky from The Macallan Anecdotes of Ages Collection created in collaboration with the globally renowned British pop artist, Sir Peter Blake achieved $437,500.

Jamie Ritchie, Worldwide Head of Sotheby’s Wine, said: “Sotheby’s Wine and The Macallan have had a longstanding relationship for many years, and it has been a privilege to sell some of the brand’s most iconic and sought-after bottles – with the A New Era of Advertising bottle now joining this illustrious group. In addition to the proceeds from the sale of The Macallan benefitting the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum’s diversity, equity, access and inclusion initiatives, we were pleased to help raise funds for both the Shawn Carter Foundation, and the Asian American Business Development Center via two other outstanding lots: the D’USSÉ® 1969 Anniversaire Limited Edition Grande Champagne Cognac and Hennessy X.O x Frank Gehry Masterpiece Decanter. It was exciting to see the worlds of art, design, and rare spirits come together through these exceptional bottles, and we look forward to continuing to present collectors with more superlative spirits through distillery collaborations throughout our 2021 auctions.”

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Spirits Specialist, remarked: “We are thrilled with the results achieved for the three exceptional charitable lots presented today in our first dedicated Spirits sale in New York. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed a staggering increase in demand for prized, rare whiskies – and the strong prices realized during today’s sale are a perfect illustration of this rapidly growing trend. With opportunities to gather again in-person with friends and family slowly becoming more frequent, now more than ever we are seeing collectors acquire special bottles from some of the world’s most celebrated spirits producers, in hopes of sharing them with loved ones in the near future. And it was our pleasure to present these extraordinary bottles to collectors worldwide through today’s auction.”

One-Of-A-Kind Original Bottle of 1967 Whisky from The Macallan’s Anecdotes of Ages Collection

Receiving 49 bids in advance of today’s live sale, A New Era of Advertising bottle is one of only 13 original bottles from this newly-launched whisky and art collection, and was offered alongside a print donated by Sir Peter Blake as well as a bespoke VIP experience at The Macallan Estate in Speyside, Scotland. Proceeds of this sale will benefit the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum’s diversity, equity, access and inclusion initiatives, with the objective to increase both free access and outreach to a variety of diverse audiences within the New York metropolitan area. Audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy free admission to the Guggenheim Museum on select Saturdays through a new initiative, ‘Saturday on the House’.

Igor Boyadjian, Managing Director for The Macallan, said: “The Macallan Anecdotes of Ages Collection is an extraordinary art and whisky collaboration with globally renowned British pop artist, Sir Peter Blake that celebrates The Macallan’s rich legacy and Sir Peter Blake’s remarkable contribution to the art world.

“At The Macallan, community is a constant guiding principle and mindset at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to have partnered with Sotheby’s New York to auction this one-of-a-kind bottle of exceptional 1967 whisky, featuring original Sir Peter Blake collage art on the label, in support of the Solomon R. Guggenheim’s diversity, equity, access and inclusion initiatives. The funds from the auction will increase free access and develop engagement with a variety of audiences, and will support ‘Saturday on the House’, an opportunity for visitors to enjoy free admission to the Guggenheim Museum in New York on select Saturdays.”

About Sotheby’s

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access, connoisseurship and preservation of fine art and rare objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 50 categories, which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Interiors, among many others.

Sotheby’s Wine’s annual worldwide auction sales of wine and spirits totaled an outstanding $92 million in 2020, with over 15,000 lots sold across 41 sales – a nearly 50% increase in the number of auctions held in 2019. Over $60 million of wine and spirits were sold to online bidders in 2020 versus $28 million in 2019, with 85% of all lots offered finding online buyers. Demonstrating continued strength in Asia, Sotheby’s led the market in the region for the third consecutive year, with over 70% of the total bid amount in all Wine and Spirits sales attributed to collectors in Asia.

Sotheby’s Wine’s has had the privilege of auctioning numerous record-breaking wines and spirits in recent years, with 2020 alone witnessing new world auction records for any bottle of Japanese whisky, any bottle of whisky produced by the Dalmore Distillery, as well as any bottle of Cognac. Sotheby’s Wine currently holds the world records for any whisky collection ever sold at auction, any private wine collection ever sold at auction, the most expensive bottle of wine ever sold at auction and the most expensive bottle of spirits ever sold at auction.

In addition to auction, Sotheby’s Wine launched a retail business in 2010. With a retail store located in Sotheby’s New York headquarters and e-commerce at www.sothebyswine.com, Sotheby’s Wine offers a carefully curated selection of wines from the world’s most prestigious producers and important regions. Expertly assembled by our experienced specialists, the selection is built upon lasting relationships with winemakers from across the globe, with bottles that are ready for immediate consumption, in addition to investment-worthy wines from highly sought-after vintages. A second retail location opened in Sotheby’s Hong Kong galleries in 2014.

Online whisky subscription service, Craft Whisky Club is committed to delivering the next whisky classics directly to consumers’ doors. Today (March 15th, 2021) the brand announced to its members, in their next box, that they would receive a bottle of the coveted Torabhaig Legacy 2017 release. Any new members from today will be added to a lottery for access to some additional bottles.

Torabhaig is only the second distillery to open on the Isle of Skye and the first for nearly 200 years, now alongside the famous Talisker Distillery. The inaugural expression sold out almost instantly, when consumers were able to purchase bottles from specialist whisky retailers throughout the UK last month. Some retailers limited bottles to one per household and others operated on a purely first-come-first-served basis.

For those that missed out on the initial release, the distilleries partnership with Craft Whisky Club offers another chance to try this new, greatly anticipated whisky. All Craft Whisky Club members that are signed up as of today will receive the Torabhaig Legacy 2017, which is sold out everywhere else. Any new members from today will be added to a lottery to get access to some additional bottles. As with all releases, this is limited, and given the attention this bottle has received whisky fans are encouraged to sign up quickly to ensure not missing out once again.

Founder David Nicol commented on the partnership with Torabhaig; “We set out to discover the new classics and we feel we are helping to achieve this with each release we are featuring, but with Torabhaig, we believe we have acquired a real scoop. We would like to say a big thank you to all our loyal UK customers, we really hope you enjoy this one.”

Craft Whisky Club

WORLD’S LARGEST WHISKY FESTIVAL UNVEILS DRAM-PACKED VIRTUAL PROGRAMME

Tickets for what’s set to be one of the world’s biggest online celebrations of whisky are going on sale today (Thursday 18th March) at 10am (GMT). The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival which is enjoyed by whisky novices, budding master blenders and everyone in between is back this April with an extra special online programme of over 60 events using a world-leading, interactive platform.

Now in its 21st year, the festival provides the ultimate opportunity for people around the world to taste and learn about whiskies from the world-famous Speyside region. This year, for the first time, people are invited to take part from the comfort of their own homes. Festival goers will be able to speed network with other whisky lovers, get up close and personal with their favourite brands in the exhibition centre and catch up with friends old and new in the social lounge on the virtual platform.

Whether it’s having exclusive behind the scenes access to distilleries not usually open to the public, taking part in tastings with some of the best known whisky brands in the region, or getting the opportunity to chat all things Scotch with some of the biggest names in the industry, attendees will have plenty of online events to choose from during the four-day virtual festival (29 April – 2 May 2021).

Programme highlights include:

• Would I Lie to You?: Hosted by Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Prestige, Stephen Rankin, some of the industry’s top names, including Glen Grant’s Dennis Malcolm, Glenfarclas Distillery’s George Grant, Kirsten Grant Meikle of the William Grant family, The Balvenie’s Gemma Paterson and whisky writer Blair Bowman, battle it out to become the best storytellers in Speyside.
• The Glenlivet Scotch Whisky School: A unique opportunity to meet Master Distiller Allan Winchester, get a whirlwind virtual tour of the distillery and complete The Glenlivet’s Whisky School in just one hour.
• Benriach’s World of Flavour: For the first time live from Benriach’s brand new visitor centre which is opening soon, join Global Brand Ambassador Stewart Buchanan for a few drams and an engaging conversation, discovering all there is to know about Benriach’s world of flavour across its acclaimed new portfolio.
• Musical Drams: Ann Miller, the Dram Queen, challenges special guests including world-renowned whisky writers and experts such as Charles MacLean, Dave Broom, Becky Paskin, and festival ambassadors to bring their chosen whisky to life by matching a dram from Speyside to a piece of music with the option to taste along at home.

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

“We were determined to capture the spirit of the world’s largest whisky festival and I think we have done just that. With over 60 events in conjunction with distilleries across the Speyside region, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s virtual Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

“Although we can’t get together to celebrate in person this April, we’ve come up with as many opportunities as possible for people to get together to celebrate the fine spirits of Speyside using a new interactive online platform. There will be speed networking, an exhibition centre, social lounge and much more as we host the world’s largest online whisky festival.”

More information, including the full programme of events, can be viewed on the Spirit of Speyside website.

Tickets are on sale from 10am (GMT) on 18th March 2021 on the Spirit of Speyside website.

Notes:

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.

For further information please visit:

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

Ben to Distil the Spirit of Glendale  

Northumbrian distillery Ad Gefrin reveals Head Distiller  

Ad Gefrin, the multi-million-pound visionary visitor experience and distillery in Glendale, today announces the appointment of Ben Murphy as Head Distiller. The news comes hard on the heels of last week’s commencement of work on the site in Wooler, which will provide opportunity, employment and a new unique taste of the Cheviots and the Borders.

Ben has been appointed to guide Ad Gefrin towards producing the first Northumbrian English Single Malt Whisky. In announcing this appointment, Eileen Ferguson, of Ad Gefrin said: “Ben has the perfect blend of youth, passion, spirit of exploration and dedication to his craft. What is more he has an obsession for indigenous whiskies, and certainly knows his way around a range of spirits!”

Ben Murphy, Ad Gefrin Head Distiiler

A graduate of Heriot-Watt University’s Brewing and Distilling School in Edinburgh, he gained an MSc with distinction in Brewing and Distilling. Aged 35 and originally from the Wirral, Ben’s whisky journey to Northumberland has taken him to volunteering at Rock Town Distillery in Arkansas, USA, where he cemented his want and drive to make whisky, and to Berentsens Brygghus in Egersund, Norway, where he was Head Distiller. His experience also includes stints as Head Distiller and Senior Brewer at Liverpool Craft Beer Company Ltd and The Ginsmiths of Liverpool.

Most recently, Ben was Head Distiller at Poetic License Distillery in Sunderland, where he was brought in specifically to develop new products and improve and refine operations. This culminated last year in the winning of a 3-star ‘Great Taste’ award – the highest accolade available in these awards – for their Poetic License Northern Dry Gin. This was one of only two gins in the UK to receive this award.

With construction work now under way, Ad Gefrin aims to be able to begin distilling their first spirit in late spring 2022. The very first single malt Ad Gefrin whisky will be ready exactly three years and a day after the distilling has commenced.

In joining Ad Gefrin, Ben said: “North Northumberland and Glendale in particular were already very special to my wife and I, and we love to visit. The people have a great warmth and the landscape is stunning. Ad Gefrin’s sense of community, mixed with an absolute commitment to provenance – with barley literally on our doorstep, Cheviot water drawn from under our feet – makes this an incredible opportunity for any distiller.”

He added: “In taking up this role, I am especially excited and keen to explore the use of modern yeasts and heritage barleys, such as those that might have been around in the Anglo-Saxon times that inspired the vision for the Ad Gefrin; but, I am totally respectful of the traditional craft of creating great whisky, which is exactly what I aim to do. The ‘terroir’ couldn’t be better, and at the end of the day, it is all about the place.”

In their vision for this new high quality visitor experience and distillery in Wooler, Ad Gefrin are committed to the local community and celebrating all that the area has to offer. This appointment is one of the first of many new jobs which are to be created. Commenting further on this unique appointment Eileen Ferguson said:

“We couldn’t be more delighted that Ben has agreed to join our team, as he has literally all the ingredients and sense of adventure that we were looking for. He is very humble but his knowledge and understanding of process, passion for quality, attention to detail and obsession for whisky fill us with enormous confidence that he will give us the world class single malt we aspire to. Importantly, Ben totally understands our values,  that is,  everything we create, everything we do, is about bringing people together.”

Located in Wooler on the edge of the Northumberland National Park, this exciting and innovative multi-million-pound regeneration project plans to deliver economic growth to the local and wider communities of Glendale. The recent successful funding bids are indicative of the support that the project has both locally and nationally, with the promise of a resurgence to Northumberland tourism, an exporter trade boost, and excellent environmental credentials integrating the site into the surrounding landscape.  

NOTES:

• The Ad Gefrin visitor destination and whisky distillery will be a major new cultural asset and business opportunity that will accelerate regeneration and economic growth, and boost productivity, in an important part of North Northumberland’s rural economy.

• The new cultural centre will offer an immersive AV and museum interpretation of the Northumbrian royal capital of Ad Gefrin and the Golden Age of the Kingdom of Northumbria. It will link with the landscape, archaeology, and stories of the area, as well as trails through the Northumberland National Park, encouraging visitors to explore and spend time and money across the wider Borderlands area.
• It will be a significant new business for Northumberland, creating a distinctive visitor destination celebrating Northumberland’s unique culture and heritage, alongside the first whisky distillery in the area for 200 years, reviving a long tradition of whisky making in Northumberland.

• The distillery will produce a new and distinctive Northumbrian whisky product, creating new wealth and jobs through sales in UK and international markets.

• Ad Gefrin will become a long-term employer in Wooler (creating up to 50 FTE jobs by Year 5), supporting training and employment across the hospitality, visitor engagement and spirit production sectors.
• Ad Gefrin has received £3m from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal which is funded through the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and has also received £1m from the North East Rural Growth Network – Strategic Economic Infrastructure Fund (SEIF) through the North East LEP, and £600k through Northumberland County Council.

• The Borderlands Partnership consists of Carlisle City Council, Cumbria County Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Northumberland County Council, Scottish Borders Council. The Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal is progressing towards the final Deal sign off, due in March 2021. The Deal will deliver up to £350 million investment in projects across the region from the UK and Scottish Governments alongside local investment of £100 million.  More information can be found at www.borderlandsgrowth.com  

• About the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). The North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is a public, private, and education sector partnership that covers Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland local authority areas.

LinkedIn: @ad-gefrin-distillery

Facebook: @AdGefrin

Instagram: @adgefrin

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Scratches Kentucky

 Bourbon Affair In 2021 

FRANKFORT, Ky. –  The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that it has canceled its annual Kentucky Bourbon Affair™ fantasy camp in 2021 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“While we are encouraged with vaccinations and declining cases, it would be difficult to hold such intimate, elegant events that attract people from all over the world,” KDA President Eric Gregory said. “It would not be fair to all involved – from our loyal KBA fans to our distillery employees.”

Gregory said several factors weighed in the difficult decision, including travel issues, limits on attendance, CDC and social distancing guidelines, uncertainty about variants and conditions in the fall and caution around distillery workers and resources that are currently off-limits.

“This is the second year we have had to cancel this event, but it is the right and responsible decision to make,” Gregory said. “We are getting closer every day to beating the pandemic. This simply isn’t the time to let our guard down or take any chances with people’s health and safety.

“It takes time to craft our great Kentucky Bourbon. We can afford to wait one more year.”

The Kentucky Bourbon Affair™ each year welcomes thousands of Bourbon aficionados, enthusiasts and visitors to the Commonwealth for an exclusive week of behind-the-scenes experiences, rare tastings and unique culinary events at the world’s most famous distilleries.

The Kentucky Bourbon Affair was scheduled to coincide with DWP’s Bourbon & Beyond music festival in September, which has been canceled for 2021, as well.

Gregory said the KDA consulted with officials in Louisville – which has been the KBA official host city since its inception in 2014. “No one was surprised at the decision, but we are all disappointed,” he said.

Karen Williams, President and CEO of Louisville Tourism, said the KDA has been a great partner in helping put Louisville’s Urban Bourbon Experience on the map by hosting its most prestigious event in Bourbon City since 2014.

“We support this difficult decision for this year’s Kentucky Bourbon Affair and commit to working with the distilleries to host an even larger event in 2022, including some exciting additions that we hope to share in the near future,” Williams said.

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 

The Irish Whiskey App

Available from March 17th

Dublin, Ireland

Launching on St. Patrick’s Day for iPhone, this is the first ever mobile app dedicated entirely to the world of Irish Whiskey. In the coming weeks the app will also be available for Android phones.

Once the most popular spirit in the world, Irish whiskey is experiencing a revival fueled by innovation, expertise and heritage. A new breed of distillers, bonders and blenders is emerging. Fabled and once thought to be lost brands and recipes are reappearing. The Irish Whiskey App was created to spread the incredible experiences and stories of Irish whiskey, old and new with audiences all around the world.

The Discover feature of the app is reminiscent of the App Store itself, with trending whiskeys, brand of the week and more. With curated content that is refreshed daily, even the most passionate Irish whiskey fans are sure to find interesting bottlings, brands and distilleries.

The app launches with a catalog numbering hundreds of whiskeys with more being added each day. The level of information available is unparalleled for Irish whiskey, with everything from the types of wooden casks used in the whiskey’s production, the flavours you can expect and educational content about how whiskey is made. Users can rate whiskeys, add their own tasting notes and even keep track of their own collections and wishlists through the app. One of the slickest features is the bottle scanner which gives users the ability to point their phone at a bottle and get immediate information and ratings about it.

With a level of depth that seems endless, the Irish Whiskey App delivers digital experiences for some of what makes Irish whiskey the greatest spirit in the world!

• Facts, stories and insights into the fascinating history of the whiskeys, brands and distilleries. All the way through the app you will find tappable content that gives you even deeper insights.
• Tasting with others! The app allows users to see how their palate compares with the official tasting notes of a whiskey and the entire Irish Whiskey App community, with instant feedback on the tastes that a user chooses.

Having shared the journey of the app’s development openly on social media for the last number of months, the developers Barrel Proof Limited, have been thrilled with the response and excitement from the Irish whiskey community. Over 300 people signed up to participate in a limited beta trial of the app in January and February, with the feedback overwhelmingly positive.

• “I think Irish whiskey has needed a home like this for a long time to tell its story and allow fans to keep on top of the many new releases and newly opened distilleries that are a part of the resurrection of Irish Whiskey. Pulled together in an easy to manage, easy to use and easy to explore way.”
• “A whiskey app like this has been a long time coming and I’m loving it so far!”

Developed by a small group of whiskey enthusiasts from Dublin, amongst them the founders of Redwind Software, one of Ireland’s original mobile app success stories, everything about this app feels high end and premium. From the Vivino-esque bottle scanner, to the in depth tasting notes, the Irish Whiskey App will appeal to Irish whiskey aficionados as well as newcomers to the category or those with just a passing curiosity.

“We felt that Irish whiskey deserved it’s own dedicated app. There is so much to learn and love about the category, it’s history and it’s future. We are excited and honoured to get to work with so many amazing distillers and brands and be a part of sharing their stories with the world. ” said Conor Winders from Barrel Proof Limited.

Co-founder David McMahon added, “with Irish whiskey going through a renaissance at the moment, we wanted to bring the joy of whiskey tasting and appreciation to an even wider audience, making it more accessible for beginners while also catering to the experts.”

For more information or material, including advance access to the Irish Whiskey app, contact us at contact@irishwhiskeyapp.com or through our website http://irishwhiskeyapp.com

Download the Irish Whiskey App for free from the Apple App Store from March 17th: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/irish-whiskey-app/id1543626955

KEEP YOUR COOL THIS SUMMER WITH NEW ENGRAVED WHISKY STONES IN SCOTTISH WHISKY TUMBLERS

Make your dram a little cooler this summer with Just Slate’s new whisky stones, complete with a stunning Scottish stag engraved on them. When combined with the company’s range of sturdy whisky tumblers these make a perfect gift for any whisky drinker.

The whisky stones are the prefect addition to the company’s bar range and come in a velvet bag as well as being gift boxed, making them a great Father’s Day gift or small present for anyone who loves a cool dram.

Just Slate’s whisky tumblers are sophisticated and designed for those who love the finer things in life. Each one is engraved with a different country or Scottish animal and come either as a single glass and slate coaster set or as a set of four in a gift box. Each heavy based glass is engraved and appeals in particular to the male market.

From Fife, Scotland, the Just Slate range also includes slate tableware and serveware as well as some other great barware items – which are all perfect gifts for those who love a tipple. The Just Slate webstore is run by Selbrae House, a Fife based business that was formed by the Carstairs family in some 14 years ago.

The set of 4 tumblers has a RRP of £40

The single tumbler and slate coaster set is priced from £20

Engraved Glass Tumbler and Square Slate Coaster Gift Set at Just Slate

The whisky stones are priced from £12.

https://justslate.co.uk/the-just-slate-company

Scottish Made

Selbrae

Muirhead, Midfield Road Mitchelston Ind Est Kirkcaldy, Fife Scotland, KY1 3PS

Tel: 01592 654222

www.Selbraehouse.co.uk

1792 Single Barrel Bourbon Brings Home Silver At 2021 American World Whiskies Awards

BARDSTOWN, KENTUCKY (Mar. 2021) – Three of Barton 1792 Distillery’s bourbon whiskies were awarded medals at the 2021 American World Whiskies Awards presented by Whisky Magazine.

1792 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey received a Silver Medal and both 1792 Bottled in Bond and 1792 Full Proof received Bronze Medals in the Bourbon taste category of the competition, defined by style and process of whisky production.

“We are incredibly honored to be the recipient of these notable awards,” Master Distiller Danny Kahn said. “This recognition is a direct reflection of our team’s hard work and dedication to our mission towards top-quality whiskey.”

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.  The winners from the American World Whiskies Awards 2021 will now compete with counterparts from all over the world, with global winners to be announced in March. For more information about the World Whiskies Awards visit www.worldwhiskiesawards.com

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.

The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. Unveils Limited Edition ‘Emerald Isle’ Collectable Whiskey Set
in Partnership with Fabergé – Inspired by The Seven Wonders of Ireland

The Oldest Triple-Distilled Irish Whiskey and First Fabergé Celtic Egg & Rough Emerald Surprise

March 2021, Dublin – The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. has collaborated with Fabergé, the world’s most iconic artist-jeweller, to release ‘The Emerald Isle Collection,’ a seven-piece custom-made whiskey set which celebrates the ‘Seven Wonders of Ireland’. Beautifully presented in a dark walnut experience box, each set features two bottles of ultra-rare, 30-year-old, triple distilled Irish whiskey, accompanied by two unique and exclusive creations from Fabergé – the first-of-its-kind Celtic Egg objet and bespoke Altruist timepiece. Each collection also includes a humidor with two ultra-rare Cohiba Siglo VI Grand Reserva cigars, a gold-plated cigar cutter, gold plated water pipette, pure obsidian whiskey stones, a hip flask with a sample of the Emerald Isle whiskey, which is the rarest Irish whiskey in existence, and a carafe filled with Irish spring water from the same region where the whiskey was made.

The official unveiling of ‘The Emerald Isle Collection’ took place on 2 February 2021 in Houston, Texas, and following the launch all seven bespoke experience boxes will be sold at private auctions and events throughout the year. Significantly for the sale of the first experience box, The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. has pledged 100 per cent of the proceeds to charity, with 50 per cent of proceeds benefitting the Correa Family Foundation supporting children affected by serious illness, and the remaining 50 per cent donated to the buyer’s charity of choice.

‘The Emerald Isle Collection’ is The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.’s second release, and now takes the crown as the oldest triple distilled Irish whiskey in the world, following the launch in November 2020 of a limited 333 bottles of The Devil’s Keep – a 29-year-old, triple distilled, single malt whiskey. The 30-year-old Emerald Isle’s single malt Irish whiskey has been aged in 200-litre ‘first fill’ American oak casks, which previously stored bourbon, and then finished in a rare single 40-litre Pedro Ximénez sherry barrel. This maturation process has imparted profiles that range from chocolate fudge and maple syrup on the nose, to sweet leather and silky-smooth, ripe banana on the palate which flows into a long finish with hints of creamy meringue and rich vanilla cigar smoke.

‘The Emerald Isle Collection’ fuses Faberge’s unique heritage with rich Irish tradition and mythology, as well as the distinctive flavours of an ultra-rare whiskey, in highly collectable and unique special-edition, legacy bottles. It is little known that Ireland invented whiskey in the 14th century and dominated the sector for centuries until an unfortunate fall due to both world wars, embargoes and their fight for independence; with the launch of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.’s collection, Irish whiskey is being restored to its former glory as the world’s most iconic whiskey.

This bespoke whiskey collection takes inspiration from seven historical and important places in Ireland and sees Fabergé honour Irish heritage in the form of its first ever Celtic Egg bespoke objet. The Fabergé design team, along with Jay Bradley and Tiago Russo, Design Director at The Craft Irish Whiskey Co., worked together to pay homage to seven beautiful and iconic Irish locations that hold a certain mysticism or mythological interest – representing the ‘Seven Wonders of Ireland’, and lucky number seven.

Each bespoke set is presented in an experience box which has been inspired by the shape of an emerald, representing the natural beauty of Ireland, and features an illustration of one of the ‘wonders’ of Ireland and its geographical coordinates, with a frontal egg-shaped aperture and a frame of coloured gemstones. Inside each box is the pièce de resistance, the hand-crafted whiskey bottle containing the ‘liquid gold,’ a collector’s item in its own right. Each of the seven bottles has been inspired by key Fabergé design elements, set with responsibly sourced emeralds from Gemfields’ Kagem mine in Zambia on the neck and lowermost part of the bottle.

Each bottle of whiskey is accompanied by a bespoke Fabergé Celtic Egg, handcrafted by fourth generation Fabergé enamel Workmaster Dr. Marcus Mohr. Each egg is handcrafted from 18k yellow gold and features Fabergé’s legendary guilloché enamel in a pastel green; the green, white and gold colours of the egg symbolising the Irish flag. Guilloché enamelling is a time-honoured technique which combines the art of engraving using an engine-turning machine combined with hot enamel which is hand-painted onto a surface in a series of layers to produce a shimmering liquid silk effect. This rare artform is a signature of Fabergé’s, practised by only a select few expert craftspeople around the world.

The seven unique eggs are set with a pavé diamond Celtic knot, a renowned symbol of Irish heritage which has no start or finish, representing eternity, love and friendship, and frames a coloured gemstone at its centre. Each of the seven Fabergé eggs features a different gemstone on its exterior: Gemfields Zambian emerald, Gemfields Mozambican ruby, blue sapphire, amethyst, rhodolite, spessartite or tourmaline, representing each of the seven locations, from The Blarney Stone to the Giant’s Causeway, and its rich Irish mythology. A matching cabochon coloured gemstone is also set on top of the egg, which itself is mounted on a beautiful hand-carved and polished rock crystal plinth with gold base.

In true Fabergé spirit, a surprise awaits inside in the form of a rough, uncut Zambian emerald responsibly sourced from Gemfields, presented on a gold guilloché base with intricate claw setting. This is the first time in Fabergé’s history that the Maison has featured a surprise of this kind. It invites collectors to further customise the creation by commissioning Fabergé to convert the beautiful rough emerald as part of a bespoke set or piece of jewellery.

Emeralds are 20 times more rare than colourless diamonds, and aptly are believed to symbolise hope, growth and fresh starts – which befits the current challenging times.

In addition to the whiskey and unique Celtic Egg, each edition of ‘The Emerald Isle’ features another ultimate collectors’ item, a bespoke one-of-a-kind Fabergé Altruist 18k rose gold timepiece with a self-winding movement from Vaucher Manufacture. Each piece has a unique dial, inspired by the landscape of one of the ‘Seven Wonders of Ireland’. Hand crafted by Fabergé’s Workmaster André Martinez, a specialist in decorating exquisite watch dials, the white mother of pearl face has been skilfully etched and hand-painted with 24k gold flakes. The case backs on each piece are dedicated to The Craft Irish Whisky Co. with the addition of the CIWC logo and 1/1 engraved to signify the uniqueness. The timepiece is finished with a brown alligator strap which complements the design perfectly.

Jay Bradley, Founder of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. commented on the collaboration: “We are more than delighted to be partnering with prestigious atelier Fabergé to launch ‘The Emerald Isle Collection,’ which is an extraordinary bespoke set, and will truly put ultra-rare luxury Irish whiskies on the map. Fabergé is an iconic brand with an enduring legacy that continues to evolve and knows no bounds, so we cannot think of a better collaboration for a luxury whiskey from Ireland. This is simply a dream come true for me and the team – and an unbelievable elevation for a 30-year whiskey, which was already going to be a particularly sought-after collector’s item. With the Fabergé addition, there is surely nothing that compares for the ultimate aficionado.”

Josina von dem Bussche-Kessell, Global Sales and Business Development Director at Fabergé, said: “This is a thrilling partnership for Fabergé, as it sees us continuing our legacy of creating unique and collectable objects, bridging the gap between historic legacy and modern-day heirlooms. Rare whiskey has seen tremendous investor attention, and the whiskey market is undergoing a dynamic evolution. It is very exciting for Fabergé to participate in such a cross-pollination of luxury sectors, thereby adding a contemporary twist on age old traditions.”

For further information about ‘The Emerald Isle Collection’, please visit www.craftirishwhiskey.com/the-emerald-isle.

Notes

Price: POA

Seven Wonders of Ireland and Their Mythology

1. The Old Head of Kinsale, Co. Cork (Blue Sapphire): The cliffside headland is a celebration of Ireland’s beauty and heritage, with panoramic views of the sea. It also marks the location where the first settlers came to Ireland over 6,000 years ago.

2. The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare (Gemfields Zambian Emerald): Located on Ireland’s breath-taking west coast, the aerial sight of the grassy headlands of the Cliffs of Moher epitomise the Emerald Island, and are home to some of the greatest Irish mythology chapters, where great creatures of both land and sea meet.

3. The Newgrange, Co. Meath (Amethyst): Built around 3200BC, this Neolithic tomb is one of the most significant references in early Irish literature and tradition. It is associated with the Tuatha Dé Danaan, a race of supernatural beings who, according to legend, ruled Ireland before the coming of the Celts and afterwards retreated into the fairy mounds and forts.

4. The Blarney Stone, Co. Cork (Rhodolite): According to legend, those who kiss this mythical stone, which is built into the battlements of Blarney Castle, are endowed with the gift of gab (or eloquence). The myth is associated with Clíodhna, the goddess of love and beauty, who assisted Cormac McCarthy by instructing him to kiss the first stone he saw on his way to court in order to help him win his case with surreal eloquence.

5. The Giant’s Causeway, Co. Antrim (Spessartite): Renowned for its scenic beauty, Giant’s Causeway features more than 40,000 basalt columns which, according to the Gaelic mythology, are the remains of a causeway built by a giant that was challenged to a fight by the Scottish giant Benandonner, who built the causeway across the Channel so that the two giants could meet.

6. The Ring of Kerry, Co. Kerry (Tourmaline): The first home of the Milesians, the original settlers arriving in Ireland, this circular route full of valleys, lakes and river streams is the site of ancient legends, with sightings of mythical creatures such as the Leprechaun – who is said to have been first seen here.

7. The Ha’penny Bridge, Co. Dublin (Gemfields Mozambican Ruby): The Ha’penny, now named Liffey Bridge, is Dublin’s oldest footbridge, which dates back to 1816. It was originally a tolled access bridge for travellers to cross the River Liffey, where they would have to pay half a penny – a “Ha’penny” – to cross. The toll system was abandoned a century later, but to this day, the bridge keeps its name, and memories of ancient stories of lovers from both sides of the bridge meeting at the very top, sharing that moment together over the cost of a ha’penny.

Emerald Isle Tasting Notes:

Nose: Butter toffee, chocolate fudge, followed by maple syrup. Hints of brine and tobacco
Palate: Old leather-bound books up front with slight tobacco backdrop. Really silky smooth with some cherry notes, ripe banana and residual caramel.
Back palate: Christmas cake spices that flow perfectly into the finish Finish: Very long finish with some hints of creamy meringue and vanilla cigar smoke that transform into a lingering touch of spice and sweet leather flavour.

About The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.

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

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

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

The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. is the proud whiskey partner of the The MICHELIN Guide and a partner in the Michelin Star Revelation Great Britain and Ireland 2021.

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

About Fabergé

Fabergé, the world’s most iconic artist jeweller, creates extraordinary jewellery, timepieces and objets d’art, as well as bespoke commissions for a discerning international clientele.

Founded in 1842, Fabergé has been the most revered name in jewellery ever since Peter Carl Fabergé became official goldsmith to the Russian Imperial Court; the house created exquisite jewels and objects, including the legendary series of lavish and ingenious Imperial Easter Eggs.

Today, Fabergé takes inspiration from its storied past to introduce a new era of enchanting and enduring personal possessions and gifts for contemporary connoisseurs. By painting with the world’s finest coloured gemstones, Fabergé explores the art of colour through creations which are designed to become future heirlooms.

Fabergé collections are available to purchase via its boutiques in London, Houston and Dubai, its’ By Appointment service in London and New York and through authorised retailers in over 80 countries around the world. Selected items are also available via Fabergé’s online boutique at Faberge.com.

E. H. TAYLOR, JR BOURBON CELEBRATES

BOTTLED IN BOND DAY WITH RELEASE TO MUSICIAN CHRIS STAPLETON’S OUTLAW STATE OF KIND CHARITABLE FUND  

Less than 100 Bottles Available – Initial Bottles Will Support Disaster Relief in Texas and Kentucky 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (March 3, 2021) – On this day nearly 125 years ago, Col. Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. succeeded in getting the Bottled in Bond Act passed, the first consumer protection act. The Bottled in Bond Act guaranteed the integrity of the whiskey to the American consumer, and among other things, guarantees only water can be added to the whiskey.  Prior to its passing, disreputable sellers would put items like tobacco juice, turpentine, iodine or other unsavory and potentially poisonous additives to a barrel of whiskey to fill it back up, and/or to give the liquid color.  Back in those days, whiskey was usually delivered by the barrel to a local saloon, general store or pharmacy where customers could fill up their own jug directly from the barrel, or retailers could bottle it up for resale on the spot.

            Today Buffalo Trace Distillery raises a glass to salute E. H. Taylor, Jr. by releasing a “Bottled in Bond Day” commemorative edition E. H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel.  One special barrel was hand-picked by the team at Buffalo Trace Distillery, the contents being bottled and made available through musician Chris Stapleton’s charitable fund, Outlaw State of Kind.   Each bottle will be autographed by Chris Stapleton.

            Initial bottles will be used to support disaster relief in Texas, hit hard by a major winter storm, and Eastern Kentucky, experiencing devastating floods.  These initial bottles are available for bidding on the online charity auction Charitybuzz and can be viewed here.  The remaining bottles will be used throughout the year to raise funds for a variety of charities across the country.  Updates on subsequent fundraisers will be posted to Outlaw State of Kind.

            “We’ve very excited to partner with Chris Stapleton and Outlaw State of Kind,” said Joshua Steely, E.H. Taylor, Jr. brand director. “We knew Chris was a big fan of E. H. Taylor, Jr., so we thought this was a perfect way to commemorate Bottled in Bond Day, by partnering with his charitable fund so fans of both his music and our bourbon can help out needy causes across the country through the various events and auctions that will be held throughout the year.”

                Grammy Award Winner Chris Stapleton adds, “The first glass of E. H. Taylor, Jr. I ever had was in the studio. Vance Powell, engineer of both music & good times, brought a bottle to the session for inspiration. That week we recorded an entire album, and that album was Traveller. We’ve made it a point to keep a bottle around ever since.

So when E. H. Taylor, Jr. approached us to partner up for an exclusive bottling in celebration of Bottled in Bond Day, it seemed like a natural fit since they were already a part of our musical journey.

Together we’ve decided to use the occasion to give back to the communities that have been the real magic in both of our stories.  The challenges of these times have left many in need, and we’re honored to help address some of these needs through this partnership.

Proceeds from the first batch of bottles to be auctioned off will go to natural disaster relief in Texas & Kentucky.”

            The E. H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel was distilled at Buffalo Trace Distillery and put in the barrel on Jan. 5, 2012.  Bottled in early February, this bourbon is 9 years old, and like the act its namesake fought so hard to pass, is Bottled in Bond at 100 proof.

            Like the other E. H. Taylor, Jr. releases, this Single Barrel is packaged with elements of Taylor’s original bottlings from the turn of the 20^th century, a vintage label bearing his signature and a distinct canister reminiscent of Taylor’s whiskey package from over one hundred years ago.  The canister gives a nod to this unique bottling with a commemorative sticker noting the 124^th anniversary of Bottled in Bond Day and a label at the bottom explaining in more detail the significance of this bottling.

            The E. H. Taylor, Jr. Bottled in Bond commemorative Single Barrel bottling will not be available at retail. It is only available through the charitable organization Outlaw State of Kind.  To find out more about Outlaw State of Kind, click here.  To learn more about Bottled in Bond Day and how you can celebrate, click here.

About Outlaw State of Kind

Outlaw State of Kind is Chris and Morgane Stapleton’s charitable fund that supports a variety of causes that are close to their heart.  The Outlaw State of Kind Fund was founded in 2016 and is administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.

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 for 2018 and its William Larue Weller and Thomas H. Handy Sazerac were named 2^nd and 3^rd finest whiskeys in the world for 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.