‘AGED AND CAGED’ 25 YEARS OLD BECOMES THE OLDEST ADDITION TO THE ARDBEG CORE RANGE 

Islay Distillery releases old and rare expression which proves that age cannot tame Ardbeg’s smoky power

Ardbeg has released the oldest and most prestigious expression yet to join its permanent range of whiskies.

Ardbeg 25 Years Old is a supreme single malt that proves unequivocally that age cannot tame Ardbeg’s smoky power, but it can yield some of the most complex and majestic flavours ever to emerge from the Distillery. It offers whisky lovers the opportunity to experience Ardbeg at its most intricate, balanced and beguiling.

The spirit was distilled during the 1990s, at a time when Ardbeg Distillery was only producing a trickle of new make spirit every year. Ardbeg from this period is therefore extremely rare, but the whisky creation team deemed that after a quarter of a century, the malt was so exquisite that it should be bottled and released as a permanent expression – albeit in limited quantities.

Fittingly for such a precious whisky, Ardbeg 25 Years Old is presented in a unique gun metal bottle encased in an beautifully intricate metal ‘cage’ – a modern take on the classic Ardbeg knotwork, and symbolic of the untamed complexity of this extraordinary whisky.

Ardbeg’s Whisky Creator, Dr Bill Lumsden, said: “After a quarter of a century in the cask, you’d be forgiven for imagining that Ardbeg 25 Years Old would have lost some of the hallmark Ardbeg smoky punch. I can assure you it hasn’t. And yet there’s also a remarkable complexity and elegance to this whisky that I find utterly captivating. It’s unmistakably Ardbeg, but unlike any Ardbeg you’ve tasted before.”

Ardbeg 25 Years Old is released worldwide this week and available from Clos19.com and whisky specialists, RRP: £710. 

www.ardbeg.com

Follow us on:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg_com

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

NOTES: 

TASTING NOTES

Bottled from incredibly rare casks filled during the 1990s, this supreme expression is Ardbeg at its most intricate, balanced and beguiling.

ABV: 46%

Colour:

Bright Amber

Aroma:

A pungent burst of smoked cream, peppermint and toffee, with Ardbeg’s classic fennel and pine resin. Distant earthy bonfires mix with herbal and fruity (banana and tropical) notes, along with fragrant candle wax.

Taste:

An extremely vibrant, hot peppery mouthfeel leads into a burst of sherbet lemon sweetness (candied apples, pears and orange), hints of carbolic soap and tar, more creamy toffee, aniseed and chilli pepper. 

Finish:

A long, mellow, lingering aftertaste, with lots of cream, fudge and delicate antiseptic notes. An elegant, soothing style of Ardbeg.

RRP: £710 

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 was twice awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 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. In 2020, the International Whisky Competition awarded Ardbeg Corryvreckan first place for Best Single Malt Scotch, Best Single Malt Scotch (No Age Statement), Best cask Strength (Over 57% ABV), Best Peated Scotch and Best Islay Single Malt. Ardbeg Wee Beastie also earned first place for Best Single Malt Scotch Under 10 Year Old and The Ardbeg Distillery achieved another Distillery of the Year award.

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.

Osaka, JAPAN, 25th January 2021

Yoshino is proudly share that Kamiki Sakura “ The world’s first whisky brand finished in Japanese sakura and cedar casks” is on the market and has been offering whisky-lovers around the world a taste of Japanese spring since 2019

In this special bottling, notes of wild cherry and distinct sandalwood notes of Kamiki are present. We have brought together the timeless traditions of the ancient Japanese capital Nara and the sacred Sakura tree to create a unique whisky. With over 10 accodales from various competitions around the globe, enjoy the unique Kamiki Whisky that brings taste of Japan in a bottle to the world..

Here are the medals from the most prestigious and progressive International Spirits Competitions:

• “94.00 points” from 2021 Jim Murrray Whisky Bible
• “DOUBLE GOLD” medal from 2020 Cigar & Spirits Magazine Competition
• “91 Points” from 2020 Ultimate Spirit Challange.
• “DOUBLE GOLD” medal from 2019 Cigar & Spirits Magazine Competition
• “GOLD” medal from 2019 China Wine and Spirits Awards.
• “PLATINUM” Award from 2019 SIP Awards
• “DOUBLE GOLD” Award from 2019 Women’s Wine & Spirit Awards.
• “CONSUMER’S CHOICE” Award from 2019 SIP Awards
• “INNOVATION” Award from 2019 SIP Awards
• “DOUBLE GOLD” from 2019 Las Vegas Spirit Awards
• “GOLD” from 2019 San Diego Spirit Awards

About Yoshino Spirits:

Yoshino Spirits (headquarters located in Osaka) is a private company exporting finest Japanese whiskey, wine and spirits to the world placing the highest priority on building relationships of trust between domestic manufacturers and customers all over the world.

For further information please visit www.yoshinospirits.com

MICHTER’S LIMITED EDITION US*1 TOASTED BARREL FINISH RYE LANDS IN THE UK 

Michter’s highly sought-after US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye 2020 release has arrived in the UK, distributed exclusively by Speciality Brands.

This release is a great favourite amongst whiskey enthusiasts globally. As with all of Michter’s limited production whiskeys these are subject to allocation, with only a few bottles of US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye available at selected retailers in the UK.

“The reception that our Toasted Barrel Finish whiskeys have received is a result of tremendously focused work done by our production team led by Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson. Despite the continuing shortages across all our whiskey stocks, we really wanted to make some of our rye available for this special release,” says Joseph J. Magliocco, Michter’s President.

Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye is made by taking fully matured Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye at barrel strength and then further aging it in a second custom barrel made to the specifications set by Michter’s Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.

Andrea Wilson comments, “For this release, we selected rye barrels aged to peak quality and then dumped each single barrel into a second barrel assembled from 24 month naturally seasoned and air dried wood. The second barrel was custom toasted to create a rich and decadent rye whiskey experience.”

The strength of the majority of the barrels selected for this release ranges from 53.6 to 55.6% ABV. The rye whiskey displays enhanced spice notes, delicate chocolate overtones, vanilla, honey, hints of roasted nuts and dates. It has a lingering finish of burnt brown sugar reminiscent of crème brûlée complemented by smokey campfire highlights.

Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye, 70cl, RRP £98 is available nationwide at selected retailers.

ARDBEG’S NEW BOTTLING – ARRRRRRRDBEG! – CELEBRATES MICKEY HEADS’ 13 YEARS AT THE DISTILLERY’S HELM 

-Limited Edition wishes a bon voyage to the former captain of the Ardbeg ship-

To commemorate the retirement of Distillery Manager Mickey Heads, Ardbeg has announced the launch of Arrrrrrrdbeg! – an exciting Limited Edition bottling which celebrates his time at the helm.

Captain of the Ardbeg ship since 2007, Mickey retired in late 2020, after 13 whisky-packed and eventful years. During his time at the Distillery, he oversaw the distillation of dozens of fine Ardbeg expressions, took part in Ardbeg celebrations from Islay to Illinois, took home the title of IWC ‘Distillery of the Year’ three times in a row, and was named Distillery Manager of the Year 2014.

Exclusively available to the Ardbeg Committee from 1^st February 2021, Arrrrrrrdbeg! is the Distillery’s first whisky wholly matured in ex-rye casks. It has a spicy mouthfeel igniting a blunderbuss of fruity flavours, while the long finish lingers with gentle smoke listing on the palate. The bottle’s striking illustrated label depicts Mickey as a salty seadog and is the creation of Butcher Billy, a renowned Brazilian artist and graphic designer.

Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation at Ardbeg, said:

“Working with Mickey has been an absolute joy. He’s somebody with a genuine passion for Ardbeg and we hope that this bottling will take pride of place in his collection. He’s presided over many momentous Ardbegs over the years, but this ‘end of an era’ edition is a special one. The spirit inside is pretty special too: Arrrrrrrdbeg! is the Distillery’s first ever ex-rye cask whisky. With notes of smoked banana and pear, sweet toffee and that distinctive Ardbeg smoke, it’s the perfectly peaty parting gift.”

Mickey Heads, Distillery Manager, said:

“It was an absolute pleasure to spend the last 13 years heading the crew at the greatest Distillery on earth. I had the best team of people anyone could wish for and I’m proud that we’ve been responsible for producing so many wonderful Ardbegs along the way. As for this bottling, well I’m honoured that a place that has already given me so much would celebrate my retirement in such a thoughtful way. And to have my image on a bottle, that’s a dream come true!

“Who knows what retirement holds for me, but I know I’ll be spending a lot of time out fishing. And, as ongoing Chairman of the Ardbeg Committee, I’m sure I’ll be dropping by the Distillery often.”

As part of the Arrrrrrrdbeg! launch, Mickey has recorded a farewell tasting film and Q&A, which fans can watch from the comfort of their own homes. And to help them get into the swashbuckling spirit, Ardbeg have also put together a downloadable kit full of pirate props, available from ardbeg.com.

While he is stepping down as Distillery Manager, Mickey will not be disappearing from the world of Ardbeg altogether. To the delight of fans, he will be continuing in his role as Chairman of the Ardbeg Committee.

Arrrrrrrdbeg will be available through Ardbeg.com and Ardbeg embassies from February 2021, RRP: £145.

www.ardbeg.com

Follow us on:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg

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

NOTES: 

Tasting Notes 

Colour: Straw

Nose: On the nose, aromas of smoked banana and pear drift into hints of rye bread, sweet vanilla toffee and the gentlest breeze of aniseed. With a splash of water, citrusy lemon and lime course through the senses, while refreshing notes of sherbet and sweet pastry come to the fore.

Taste: A spicy mouthfeel hoists up and ignites a blunderbuss of fruity flavours, such as melon and kiwi. An armada of aniseed appears, tailed by notes of smoked toffee and a distant hint of sourdough biscuits.

Finish: Finally, the long finish lingers, leaving seaspray, brazil nuts and faint smoke listing on the palate.

ABV: 51.8%

Cask type: Wholly matured in ex-rye casks. A first for Ardbeg.

Non age statement.

RRP: £145 

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 was twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 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. In 2020, the International Whisky Competition awarded Ardbeg Corryvreckan first place for Best Single Malt Scotch, Best Single Malt Scotch (No Age Statement), Best cask Strength (Over 57% ABV), Best Peated Scotch and Best Islay Single Malt. Ardbeg Wee Beastie also earned first place for Best Single Malt Scotch Under 10 Year Old and The Ardbeg Distillery achieved another Distillery of the Year award.

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.

SOTHEBY’S ANNUAL AUCTION SALES OF WINES AND SPIRITS TOTAL $92 MILLION
Driven by Expansion of Online Sales and Increase in First-Time Buyers
Market Leader in Asia
Growth in Spirits Business with 20% of Overall Sales

NEW YORK & LONDON, – Sotheby’s Wine’s annual auction sales of wines and spirits totalled $92 million in 2020, driven by the expansion of online sales, younger buyers entering the market, an increase in first-time buyers, and both new and established collectors embracing the company’s enhanced digital tools. Buyers from Asia continued to claim a larger share of global sales, with Sotheby’s leading the market in the region for the third consecutive year. Sotheby’s Wine Retail also achieved strong results this year, in both Hong Kong and New York.

Jamie Ritchie, Worldwide Head of Sotheby’s Wine, said: “Our success in 2020 was due to our team’s ability to adopt a very rapid digital transformation, where we hosted 17 online auctions in addition to 23 live auctions, when we originally planned 28 live auctions. The digital tools that we now use would have taken another two to five years to implement under normal circumstances and resulted in the growth of 40% of new buyers, with particular strength in the under 40 category. The year’s highlights were the strength of our sales in Asia, representing over 55%, the growth in the Spirits market representing 20%, and the publication of The New Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia. The range of our sales illustrates our innovation as leaders in the wine and spirits business and the breadth of our activities, from auction to retail, from New York to Hong Kong.”

Adam Bilbey, Head of Sotheby’s Wine, Asia, said: “To lead the market in Asia for the third year in a row, with our second highest total and backboned by eight single owner sales, is testament to the wonderful collections we have been entrusted with, and thanks to our loyal clients throughout the region. In these unprecedented and challenging times, Sotheby’s Wine has transformed its business across the world, with a digital revolution. In Hong Kong, our Spirits business has led this charge with eight online sales, selling to more fine Spirits collectors and to a younger and more diverse client base, than ever before. We look forward to continuing this trend in 2021.”

Jonny Fowle, Sotheby’s Spirits Specialist, said: “2020 saw phenomenal growth for spirits, which made up 20% of Sotheby’s Wine’s annual business globally. During this challenging time, we rapidly and successfully transitioned to an online auction format, bringing in new bidders and generating records for the most valuable Japanese Whisky, the oldest vintage Cognac, and the highest price for any bottle of Dalmore sold at auction. Sensitive to the struggles felt by so many around the world this year, we partnered with The Macallan, The Dalmore, Dictador and Diageo to produce sensational results for charities such as City Harvest, Water Aid and SAMH. We look forward to continuing this success into 2021 with more distillery partnerships for charity, leading with the Black Bowmore Cabinet in Hong Kong next Spring”.

Facts & Figures

• Global Wine and Spirits sales total $92 million
• Over 15,000 lots sold across 41 sales, an almost 50% increase in the number of sales held in 2019
• Bidders from more than 40 countries
• Market leader in Asia for third consecutive year
• Growth in spirits business with an overall total of $18 million (20% total sales), 15 sales and 1,800 lots sold – five years ago spirits represented less than 2% of sales
• Top lots of the year:
o The Macallan Red Collection, sold for $977,496
o The Macallan in Lalique Six Pillars Collection, sold for $507,819

Strength in Asia:

• Second biggest year ever, with digital transformation (including 11 online sales versus two online sales in 2019)
• Three-day Hong Kong sale series in July brought $23 million: the third highest total ever for a wine sale series in Asia, over 150% higher than any competitor wine sale series
• 40% of bidders in Hong Kong sales are in their 20s and 30s
• Over 30% bidders in Hong Kong sales are new to Sotheby’s
• 73% of total bid amount in all Wine and Spirits sales come from collectors in Asia

Online:

• Over $60 million of wine and spirits sold to online bidders in 2020 versus $28 million in 2019
• 84% lots offered were bought online
• 46% first time bidders aged in their 20s or 30s

New Buyers and Bidders:

• 40% buyers and 38% bidders new to Sotheby’s
• Bidders aged 40 years or younger made up 29% of new bidders, 31% total amount bid amount in global wine sales, and 38% bidders in global Spirits sales
• 45% bidders bid for first time in Spirits sales
• 31% bidders bid for first time in Wine sales

Spirits

• Several world record prices for Spirits at auction were achieved this year:

o World record for any bottle of Japanese whisky with Karuizawa 52 Year Old Zodiac Rat Cask #5627 1960 ($435,273, London, March).
o World record for any bottle of whisky produced by the Dalmore Distillery with two bottles of The Dalmore 62 Year Old ($324,445 per bottle, London, May).

• The year saw several partnerships with leading distilleries:

o Sotheby’s X The Macallan:

 In October at Sotheby’s in London, a unique set of The Macallan Red Collection – the only artist’s label set to be released by The Macallan – sold for $977,496. Proceeds from this lot were donated to City Harvest London and provided 620,000 meals for those in need.

o Sotheby’s X Diageo:

 In September the first offering at auction of set #1 of the first release of The Prima & Ultima Collection sold for $35,249 in an online auction, with proceeds from the sale donated to Diageo’s charity partner WaterAid.

o Sotheby’s X The Dalmore:

 Sotheby’s first Dalmore collaboration of the year in Hong Kong saw an entire Cask of 1973 Dalmore offered as part of the innovative cross-category silent auction ‘In Confidence: Selected Masterpieces’. The winning bidder will be flown to Scotland to work directly with The Dalmore Master Distilling team to complete their casks maturation and bottle into personalised decanters.

 Sotheby’s second partnership of 2020 with The Dalmore in Hong Kong consisted of two 1979 Private Cask bottlings in engraved Candela crystal decanters donated directly from The Dalmore Distillery for charity. The proceeds from the Dalmore 38 & 39 Year Old Private Casks 1979, which sold for $32,390, benefitted the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).

o Sotheby’s X Bowmore:

 In the spring of 2021 in Hong Kong, Sotheby’s will offer The Black Bowmore Archive Cabinet – the complete Black Bowmore single malt whisky collection direct from the Bowmore distillery, comprising five archive bottles, spanning 1993 to 2016, presented in a truly unique bespoke piece of furniture created by award-winning craftsman John Galvin (estimate in the region of $500,000).

About Sotheby’s Wine

Sotheby’s Wine, with a store located within the auction house’s worldwide headquarters on New York’s Upper East Side, offers a carefully curated selection of wines from the world’s most prestigious producers and important regions. Expertly assembled by Sotheby’s’ experienced specialists, the ever-evolving selection is built upon lasting relationships with winemakers from across the globe, with prices beginning at just $13.95. With bottles that are ready for immediate consumption, in addition to investment-worthy wines from highly sought-after vintages, each wine is chosen for its expression of its region and value for money. Each bottle selected by Sotheby’s specialist team must pass the brand’s signature “three-glass” tasting guideline, meaning that the tasters must like it enough to want to drink three glasses, or the standard amount enjoyed when sharing a bottle.

The Sotheby’s Wine Store in New York City is located at 1334 York Avenue, and is open Monday through Friday from 10AM to 7PM and Saturday from 10AM to 6PM. Along with a retail location in Hong Kong Sotheby’s Wine also offers all bottles online, 24 hours, at www.sothebyswine.com.

Virginia Distillery Company’s Courage & Conviction American Single Malt Receives 96-Points from Wine Enthusiast

LOVINGSTON, Va. (January 19, 2021) – Virginia Distillery Company’s American Single Malt whisky Courage & Conviction was included in a recent buying guide for Wine Enthusiast which focused on Global Single Malts and Potato Vodka. Courage & Conviction received a 96-point score, putting the spirit in the superb category.

The Buying Guide is included in each issue of Wine Enthusiast as well as online and includes ratings and reviews of new releases and selected older beverage alcohol products that are evaluated by Wine Enthusiast editors and other qualified tasters. The panel of reviewers performed a blind tasting to determine the score for each product included. The scores are categorized as the following:

• Classic 98–100: The pinnacle of quality.
• Superb 94–97: A great achievement.
• Excellent 90–93: Highly recommended.
• Very Good 87–89: Often good value; well recommended.
• Good 83–86: Suitable for everyday consumption; often good value.
• Acceptable 80–82: Can be employed in casual, less-critical circumstances.

“It’s an honor to earn a superb score from one of the industry’s most accredited publications,” said Virginia Distillery Company’s CEO Gareth H. Moore. “Since day one, our team has been dedicated to producing quality American Single Malt whisky and setting a new standard in the category with Courage & Conviction.”

The name of Virginia Distillery Co.’s American Single Malt is a nod to a phrase founder Dr. George G. Moore was often heard saying: “Have the courage of your convictions.” The inaugural batch, which released in the spring of 2020, was dedicated to Dr. George G. Moore. The second batch of Courage & Conviction, which released in the fall of 2020, is dedicated to Dr. Jim Swan, who passed away in 2017 following a 40-year career supporting the science of distilling as a chemist, professor, researcher and author. Dr. Swan was the man behind Courage & Conviction: the distillate, the casks and the maturation strategy. Additional releases in the Courage & Conviction line are slated for Spring 2021.

Amongst Wine Enthusiast’s 96-point score, Courage & Conviction has earned national recognition and accolades including Double Gold in the SIP Awards, Double Gold in the John Barleycorn Awards, 94 Points in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and 91 Points in Whisky Advocate.

Virginia Distillery Company released batch.info, a website hub that includes distillate and cask data about each batch of Courage & Conviction, as well as bottling and process information for consumers. Virginia Distillery Company also recently launched a complete guide to American Single Malt whisky.

For more information, visit the distillery’s website at www.vadistillery.com.

About Virginia Distillery Company

Staffed by a local Virginia team mentored by Scottish consultants with decades of experience, Virginia Distillery Company is the largest dedicated American Single Malt whisky distillery in the U.S. The distillery has a current annual production volume of 80,000 4.5L cases and growing. At full capacity, the distillery can produce over 8,000 casks yielding 350,000 4.5L cases annually. The distillery produces Courage & Conviction American Single Malt on-site using malted barley from North America and water from Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition, the distillery offers the award-winning Virginia-Highland Whisky series, made with 100% malted barley. Showcasing both Old and New World whisky-making, the award-winning line marries whisky made on-site in Virginia with whisky from Scotland.

Whiskies and glassware for raising a toast on Burns Night

Burns Night on Monday 25 January provides the perfect excuse to enjoy a dram or two of fine whisky and to raise a toast to the legendary Scottish poet, Robert Burns. Whether you’re a whisky novice or connoisseur, here’s a list of delicious whiskies to suit every palate and price range as well as some beautiful glassware to enhance your tasting experience.

Glenmorangie Lasanta, £47

Gaelic for “warmth and passion,” the 12-year-old single-malt Lasanta is extra-matured in Spanish sherry casks, revealing enticing aromas, full-bodied flavours and a lusciously soft texture. Aged for 10 years in first and second fill ex-bourbon casks, then ‘finished’ in Oloroso and PX Sherry casks, the creation of Lasanta is an exercise in fine-tuning, with Glenmorangie’s craftsmen seeking a smoother, sweeter whisky than is traditional in the Highlands. The ideal whisky to enjoy with your haggis on Burns Night.

Available through www.clos19.com  www.glenmorangie.com 

Ardbeg Wee Beastie, £39

For over 200 years, Ardbeg has been made on the remote Scottish isle of Islay. This new single-malt style showcases the daring, experimental side of the distillery. Aged just 5 years, but with a feisty and intensely powerful flavour, Wee Beastie has been matured in ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks.  Untamed by age, it accentuates the raw power of Islay whisky. Intensely smoky, with notes of cracked black pepper, tar and savoury meats, Wee Beastie has been described as a ‘monster of a dram’ and it’s not for the faint hearted.

Available through www.clos19.com  www.ardbeg.com

Glenmorangie Malaga Cask, £75

Indulgently sweet and rich, Glenmorangie’s latest small-batch Highland single malt Scotch whisky brings the sun-kissed flavours of the south of Spain to whisky lovers old and new. Enriched by the honeyed intensity of famed Malaga wine casks, 12-year-old limited edition Glenmorangie Malaga Cask Finish brims with chocolate, fruit and gentle spice.

Available through www.clos19.com  www.glenmorangie.com

Ardbeg An Oa, £49

An Oa – part of Ardbeg’s core range of whiskies – is named after the Mull of Oa in the south west of Islay where the distillery is situated. The whisky is singularly rounded due to time spent in the bespoke oak Gathering Vat where whiskies from several cask types – including; sweet Pedro Ximénez; spicy virgin charred oak; and intense ex-bourbon casks, amongst others, mingle unhurriedly. The result is a dram with smoky power, mellowed by a delectable, smooth sweetness and a truly untamed single malt. Ideal for those whisky lovers who prefer a more peaty, smoky dram with their neeps and tatties.

Available through www.clos19.com.  www.ardbeg.com

Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996, £635

Sixth in the Bond House No. 1 Collection, Grand Vintage 1996 is the first Glenmorangie whisky to be aged in specially designed casks. The casks are first seasoned with bourbon for four years, then lightly charred to magnify Glenmorangie’s creamy character. The result is a smoother, rounder single malt whisky, aged for a total of 23 years and a rare chance to own a piece of the distillery’s history.

Available through www.clos19.com  www.glenmorangie.com 

The Glencairn Crystal Glassware Range

Every whisky aficionado will tell you that the only way to drink whisky is from the iconic Glencairn Glass – in fact 3 million glasses are now sold every year across the world. Endorsed by the Scotch Whisky Association as the official glass for whisky, its unique and stylish shape has been crafted to enhance the enjoyment of both single malts and aged blends. The tapering mouth of the glass captures those all-important aromas,  and its wide bowl allows the fullest appreciation of the whisky colour with the thistle style base designed to be comfortable in the hand.

There’s a wide range of Glencairn Glasses to suit all budgets starting from a beautifully presented single glass (uncut or hand cut crystal) with prices from £6.

Or you could try something special to serve your whisky from such as Glencairn’s best-selling decanter designed in the shape of a whisky pot still. This beautiful crystal decanter holds 75cl and comes in a stylish presentation box, RRP £70.

The Glencairn Glassware range can be personalised with bespoke engraving to create a truly unique gift and is available at the Glencairn online shop.

Responsible Drinking:

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

Nicole Sykes Appointed Maker’s Mark UK Diplomat

14^th January 2021, London: In 1943 when Bill Samuels Sr. walked away from the whisky founded by his great,  great grandfather by burning the only copy of 170 year old family recipe, he set off to personally create a whisky that he could proudly share with his friends and family. Collaborating with his wife Margie Samuels, their result was Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whisky.

To continue the tradition of proudly sharing this great tasting whisky with our friends and family, we are delighted to share the news that the award-winning UK bartender and drinks expert Nicole Sykes has joined Edrington Beam Suntory UK as Maker’s Mark Diplomat.

Nicole brings 5 years’ experience to the Bourbon Whisky brand, working in some of the world’s most iconic bars in London and Edinburgh including Lyaness, Voodoo Rooms and most recently at Satan’s Whiskers, one of the world’s leading independent cocktail bars.

Nicole has also received numerous awards and accolades for her creativity and commitment to quality. Nicole’s passion for handmade cocktails and crafted American whisky will be key to sharing Maker’s Mark remarkable story.

Commenting on Maker’s Mark new role Nicole Sykes said: “The most compelling part for me is the genuine story behind Maker’s Mark. Each step of the process has its purpose and is there to create the best tasting Bourbon Whisky. It’s much like when bartenders create cocktails, each ingredient and method is well thought out. We don’t use the cheapest or quickest methods; we use the best methods to achieve the best taste experience.” 

In her new role, Nicole will share the unique hand-crafted story of Maker’s Mark with bartenders and Bourbon Whisky enthusiasts across the UK.  She will also work to support the on-trade during their transition back into service as restrictions loosen in the coming weeks.

Nick Temperley, General Manager for London at Edrington-Beam Suntory UK also commented:  “We are extremely excited to have Nicole join the team here at Maker’s Mark. Having proven herself as an outstanding bartender in some of London’s best bars, she will now bring her own sense of fun, energy and cocktail experience to help us grow our remarkable bourbon whisky and support all our customers in 2021.”

For more information visit: www.makersmark.com

Notes: 

About Maker’s Mark

In 1954, in Loretto, Kentucky, Bill Samuels, Sr., fulfilled his dream of creating a handmade and delicious bourbon. He decided to make his whisky in small-batches, using soft red winter wheat, with a proprietary barrel char to enhance the softness and sweetness. Bill Samuels, Sr., transformed bourbon from a “commodity” into a premium handmade spirit, and today Maker’s Mark® continues to make its bourbon exactly the same way. In recent years, Maker’s Mark has introduced thoughtful, super-premium innovations to its portfolio including Maker’s 46® and Maker’s Mark Private Select™, the brand’s custom barrel program.

In 1980, the Maker’s Mark distillery became the first distillery in America to be designated a National Historic Landmark and has also been decreed as the “world’s oldest operating bourbon whisky distillery” by Guinness World Records. It remains one of the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

For more information, please visit www.makersmark.com.

About Edrington-Beam Suntory Distribution UK

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

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

• Blended Scotch (The Famous Grouse, Naked Grouse and Teacher’s)
• Malt whisky (Highland Park, Laphroaig, The Macallan and Bowmore)
• Japanese whiskies (Yamazaki, Hibiki, Hakushu, Toki and Chita)
• Bourbon (Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Knob Creek)
• Imported whiskies (Canadian Club and Kilbeggan Irish whiskey)
• Gin (Roku and Larios)

It also handles UK sales and distribution for Courvoisier cognac, Brugal 1888 rum and a portfolio of liqueurs and specialities (including Sourz, Bols liqueurs, Galliano and After Shock).

HYDROGEN STUDY GIVEN BOOST AT BRUICHLADDICH DISTILLERY AMIDST PLAN TO DECARBONISE BY 2025

Bruichladdich Distillery have today announced they will receive support from the Small Business Research Initiative Green Distilleries Competition in their search for alternative fuels. More than £70,000 has been awarded to the island-based distiller’s project partner, Protium Green Solutions, in order to complete a feasibility study on incorporating innovative hydrogen combustion technology into Bruichladdich.

The makers of Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte and Octomore single malts have ambitious plans to decarbonise their production process by 2025. Investigations into the feasibility of several renewable energy sources have been underway for some time. Each viable option, including wind, solar, electrification, biomass and fuel switching (HVO), will continue to be explored alongside this new testing, as the opportunity to be industry-leaders in hydrogen is readily embraced.

The feasibility project, named HyLaddie, will explore the deployment of an on‐site Deuterium Dynamic Combustion Chamber (DCC™) as a viable mechanism to meet heating requirements. Together with ITPEnergised and Deuterium, Protium will investigate optimal system design and how the DCC™ can be integrated. As with any project undertaken at Bruichladdich, the feasibility study must consider the preservation of centuries old equipment, the safeguarding of spirit quality and the impact on the local community.

Intended for completion in the spring of 2021, the study is included in Phase One of the Green Distilleries Competition. Positive results would see the teams target Phase Two funding in order to install the DCC™ and assess its industrial application. This proof of concept could be the vote of confidence required for similar‐sized distilleries to elect for hydrogen alternatives.

This project marks the inaugural deployment of DCC™ in the UK. The revolutionary technology generates high temperature steam, using only oxygen and hydrogen that is combusted in a vacuum. The process creates water, which can be recycled and crucially, eliminates any emission of CO2, NOx and SOx.

Allan Logan, Production Director of Bruichladdich, comments “At Bruichladdich Distillery, we understand that there is real potential for a hydrogen‐based solution to decarbonise our industry. We are thrilled to have the support of Protium, Deuterium and ITPEnergised to help us assess the feasibility of employing a green hydrogen fuel switching solution for our distillery – a move we hope benefits the broader industry.

In recent years, Bruichladdich has undertaken feasibility studies of 13 potential energy solutions. The search for alternative fuels is being investigated alongside several other areas in Bruichladdich’s sustainability strategy, which include commitments to agriculture and biodiversity, Islay and the wider community and reducing packaging and waste.

The progress they have made thus far was last year accredited by the B Lab, when the distillery became one of the only distilleries in the world to be B Corp certified. Future ambitions will see the installation of on-site maltings, agricultural R&D activity on the distillery’s own 30 acre Shore House Croft and the continuation of their investment in people program for the distillery’s 105 staff members.

Notes:

Bruichladdich Distillery is situated on the southwestern tip of the Hebridean island of Islay and is home to unique spirits:

– Bruichladdich, unpeated Islay single malt
– Port Charlotte, heavily peated Islay single malt
– Octomore, the world’s most heavily peated single malt series

In 2020, Bruichladdich became one of the only distilleries in the world to be B Corp certified. They are the first gin and whisky distillery in Europe, and one of two globally, to be recognised for balancing profit and purpose.

The distillery was first established in 1881 by the Harvey brothers. It survived through periods of closure including world wars and economic uncertainly, only to be closed for 7 years in 1994. The closure left all but two redundant.

The distillery was reopened by Mark Reynier, Simon Coughlin and Jim McEwan in 2001. The team have breathed new life into the community by keeping as much of their operations on Islay as possible. They installed a bottling hall in 2003, first grew Islay barley in 2004 (now 52% of production) and have since added additional warehousing to ensure all single malts are conceived, distilled, matured and bottled on the island. They are one of only two distilleries on the island (9 total) to make those claims.

The independently owned Bruichladdich was purchased by luxury spirits company Remy Cointreau in 2012. They continue to invest in the values of the business, in being Islay-based, and in the local community.
The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is distilled and hand-crafted at Bruichladdich Distillery by Head Distiller Adam Hannett. Nine classic gin botanicals are augmented by 22 local herbs and flowers, foraged responsibly and by hand from the hills, shores and bogs of Islay by professional forager James Donaldson.

On Bruichladdich’s Project Partners:

About Protium

Protium is a UK‐based green hydrogen energy services company (HESCO). Founded in 2019, the company supports the transition to net zero by working alongside clients in manufacturing and transport infrastructure to deploy green hydrogen and renewable energy infrastructure assets.

https://protium.co.uk/
Tweets by Protium18
https://www.linkedin.com/company/protium‐green‐solutions/?viewAsMember=true

About Deuterium

Deuterium Heating Ltd. is a UK based company established in 2020, to develop and commercialise new hydrogen technologies in the UK. It is currently focused on identifying and securing the first commercial pilot site for a pioneering technology called a DCC™ system, which it has licensed from leading US innovator – Hydrogen Technologies Inc, whose technology has been listed by the Solar Impulse Foundation as one of the “1000 solutions to change the world”. Over time Deuterium will support the commercialisation of other hydrogen technologies as needed to support the development activities of Protium.

About ITPEnergised

At ITPEnergised (ITPE) we are passionate about the transition to net zero. We are a trusted advisor providing client‐focused, commercially minded, energy and environmental consulting services to clients in onshore & offshore energy, oil & gas, transport & infrastructure, property and corporate sectors. http://www.itpenergised.com/

LOCH LOMOND WHISKIES

CONVERTS NEW PRO14 RUGBY SPONSORSHIP DEAL

Award-winning Scotch Whisky distiller, Loch Lomond Whiskies, has agreed an exciting new global partnership and sponsorship agreement with PRO14 Rugby including the inaugural “Rainbow Cup” featuring teams from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Italy and now South Africa. The distiller based in Alexandria, on the banks of the spectacular Loch Lomond which can trace its roots back more than 200 years, will become the Official Spirit of PRO14 Rugby for the next three years.

As the Official Spirit of PRO14 Rugby, Loch Lomond Whiskies will showcase its innovative and exciting range of single malt whiskies at match venues and digitally throughout the season. In addition, the Loch Lomond Whiskies logo will feature on the match officials’ shirts, digital pitch branding and the distiller will support some exciting initiatives aimed directly at helping fans engage with the game, players, coaches and clubs that they support.

Loch Lomond Whiskies have been winning awards for their premium whiskies across the globe for many years with spirit that combines the skill, hard work, dedication, teamwork and commitment to craft of everyone involved. These values are also central to the excellence of the Guinness PRO14 Rugby tournament, and all of its participating teams and Loch Lomond Whiskies wants to champion a competition that mirrors both its values and outstanding range of finest malt whiskies.

In keeping with Loch Lomond Group’s wider sponsorship portfolio, making positive impacts on communities is at the heart of all its partnerships and sponsorships. It is the brand’s ambition to complement its sponsorship of The Open Golf Championship through The R&A and its sponsorship of Scottish football through the SPFL by delivering meaningful and fun activities for all rugby supporters, as well as working with the clubs to donate part of its profits from new Special Edition Whiskies created with PRO14 Rugby and the clubs to worthy charities across the UK, Ireland and Italy.

Colin Matthews, CEO at Loch Lomond Whiskies, said: “What attracted us to partner with the PRO14 Rugby as its Official Spirit was not only the professionalism and ambition of Martin Anayi and his team at PRO14 Rugby, but also the quality of the tournament and all of the participating teams as well as a shared passion for a commitment to attaining excellence. 

“Much like our other sports partnerships, our sponsorship of PRO14 Rugby will centre on contributing to the true spirit of the sport. We passionately believe that participation and interest in sport can make a real positive difference to individuals, groups and communities and so we are committed to leveraging our new association with PRO14 Rugby to support the wider rugby community. 

“We look forward to seeing rugby fans back in stadia as soon as circumstances allow, and we can’t wait to give them the opportunity to enjoy a dram or two of our award-winning single malts.”

Martin Anayi, PRO14 Rugby CEO, added: “Loch Lomond’s long-term addition to our family of partners in the Guinness PRO14 is heartening news on so many levels. During the past nine months, the game of rugby has shown its true spirit in facing challenges we have never seen before and not only have we enjoyed the support of our existing partners, now Loch Lomond have come in because they know how passionate and engaged the fans of our league are. 

“Our goal is to create a partnership that opens up opportunities for exciting content that resonates with fans and gets people talking in order to showcase the ambition of both Loch Lomond and our league. 

“Loch Lomond Whiskies are really passionate about sport and their sponsorship of The Open Golf Championship is a testament to their approach. Already, they have provided us with a range of ideas to connect with our fans and their clubs, and I’m really looking forward to the announcement of their marquee activation which will provide a prestigious addition to the Guinness PRO14.”

The inaugural partnership is the latest addition to Loch Lomond Group’s impressive sponsorship portfolio. In golf, Loch Lomond is the Official Spirit of The Open, Women’s British Open and Scottish PGA, whilst enjoying ambassador relationships with on-course legends Colin Montgomerie, Darren Clarke, Rich Beem and Cristie Kerr. In football, Loch Lomond Group’s Glens vodka brand sponsor Motherwell FC and has recently become “The Spirit of the SPFL”, Scotland’s leading national men’s football league.

The Guinness PRO14 currently consists of clubs from four countries, who go toe-to-toe in two conferences throughout the season to earn a place in the Guinness PRO14 Final where the best teams compete for one of the few major trophies in professional club rugby.

To learn more about the PRO14 Rugby partnership and to discover the Loch Lomond Whiskies range, go to: www.lochlomondwhiskies.com

About Loch Lomond Group

Loch Lomond Group is a multi-award winning leading international distiller of malt, blended and grain whisky with a rich heritage dating back to the foundation of its unique Littlemill Distillery (Scotland’s oldest distillery) in 1772. Its brands are present in over 120 countries around the world. Its key premium Scotch whisky brands include Loch Lomond – “The Spirit of the Open”, Glen Scotia, a Campbeltown malt whisky from “the whiskiest place in the world”  , and Littlemill, the oldest licensed distillery in Scotland. It also produces High Commissioner and Loch Lomond blended Scotch whiskies, as well as Glen’s Vodka, Scotland’s number one vodka brand, and Ben Lomond, premium Scottish Gin. 

With production sites across Scotland, Loch Lomond Group is one of the few distillers in Scotland to have a fully integrated production and supply capability. It operates three distilleries – Two (malt & grain) at Loch Lomond Distillery in Alexandria, Dunbartonshire which has on-site cooperage facilities and Glen Scotia distillery in Campbeltown, Argyll. The group also owns and operates Scotland’s largest independent bottling plant in Catrine, Ayrshire. 

About Loch Lomond Whiskies

Loch Lomond distillery has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814. The multi award winning Loch Lomond whiskies range includes the Loch Lomond 12-Year-Old which has been awarded the Platinum Award in 2020, one of only 7 single malts to be awarded this honour at the San Francisco World Spirits Challenge 2020. Other expressions in the range are the single malts Loch Lomond Original; Loch Lomond Classic; Loch Lomond 18-Year-Old; Loch Lomond 50-Year-Old; the Loch Lomond Island’s Collection which includes the Inchmurrin and Inchmoan ranges as well as the deluxe blend Loch Lomond Signature and Loch Lomond Single Grain 

Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12-Year-Old has been awarded Best Highland Single Malt 12 Years and Under at the 2018 World Whiskies Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco 2020 Awards 

Loch Lomond Whiskies was recently also awarded the following medals at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition:

• PLATINUM: Loch Lomond 12-Year-Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL – Inchmurrin 12-Year-Old
• GOLD MEDAL – Inchmoan 12-Year-Old
• DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL – Loch Lomond 18-Year-Old 

In 2018 the company signed a five-year partnership with The R&A for Loch Lomond Whiskies to become “The Spirit of The Open” and The Women’s British Open. The period includes the playing of the landmark 150th Open in 2021 at St Andrews, the home of golf.

For further information visit Loch Lomond Whiskies on Twitter: @LochLomondMalts, Instagram: @lochlomondmalts Facebook: Loch Lomond Whiskies and at www.lochlomondwhiskies.com