SOUTH AFRICAN MASTER DISTILLER TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE GLOBAL WHISKY HALL OF FAME

Whisky Magazine announced today (4 February) that Andy Watts, Distell Master Distiller of a range of proudly South African whiskies, Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky and Three Ships Whisky, will be bestowed the great honour of being inducted into Whisky Magazine’s Whisky Hall of Fame.

The induction will take place on 25 March during an online ceremony when the Global Winners of the Icons of Whisky Awards together with the World Whiskies Awards winners will be announced.

The honour of Whisky Hall of Fame has been bestowed on just a handful of iconic people since its inception in 2004, as a permanent tribute to their lasting contribution to the whisky industry.

Andy will receive this prestigious accolade in recognition of his life-long commitment to the South African whisky industry and subsequently, the World Whisky Category (whiskies produced outside of Scotland, the USA and UK).

Andy’s career didn’t start-off in the world of whisky. He grew up in Penistone in Yorkshire, England and arrived in South Africa in 1982 as a professional cricketer with Derbyshire CCC planning to spend six months a year coaching at schools throughout the Boland.

Within three years, he landed a position at the then Stellenbosch Farmers Winery (SFW) where he became involved in blending spirits. He was invited to Scotland by Morrison Bowmore Distillers to work hands-on at its three distilleries – Auchentoshan in the Lowlands, Glen Garioch in the Highlands and the legendary Bowmore Distillery on the Isle of Islay.

He returned to South Africa determined to prove that the country can produce internationally award-winning whiskies. Back at SFW, he was tasked, along with the company’s Technical Services Department, to transfer its fledgling whisky operations from the R&B Distillery in Stellenbosch to The James Sedgwick Distillery in Wellington, taking up his position as distillery manager in August 1991.

In addition to a host of global awards achieved for the whiskies and the distillery, Andy was awarded in 2016 and 2018 the title as “Rest of the World Master Distiller / Master Blender” in Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky Awards and in the 2018 awards went on to be named as the “Global Icons of Whisky Master Distiller / Master Blender”. More recently he received the “2020 Global Icon World Whisky Ambassador Award” for his passion in not only creating whisky but in sharing knowledge of South African whiskies around the globe.

Richard Rushton, Distell’s CEO, says this incredible achievement is tangible proof of the lasting legacy that Andy has accomplished for Distell and South African Whisky.

“Making whisky in those early years certainly came with its challenges yet Andy persevered. With an unwavering passion for whisky, he dedicated his career in not only establishing the South African Whisky category and subsequent world-wide recognition for the exceptional whiskies produced here, but today inspires a new generation of local craft whisky producers. He continues to be the driving force of the industry and we commend him for his dedication, innovation and commitment to South African whisky.”

After spending 25 years as Manager of The James Sedgwick Distillery, Andy took up the position as Distell’s Head of Whisky in 2016. He is responsible for the company’s South African whisky portfolio focusing on the process, quality and style of their whiskies, providing strategic guidance to the production of the range of Three Ships Whisky and Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky.

Andy is also instrumental in providing the vision for the Three Ships Whisky Master’s Collection – the limited release whiskies made available from time to time to showcase the innovation of South African whiskies through an online live sale – and a range of exclusives produced for local and international retail.

His vision to produce whiskies sustainably has resulted in The James Sedgwick Distillery, the only commercial whisky distillery in Africa, being at the forefront of innovation. With his guidance, the distillery has won numerous international accolades for ingenious sustainability projects that lessen the impact on the environment.

Andy’s induction will take place live on 25 March at 12.30pm (GMT) on Whisky Magazine’s Facebook (@WhiskyMagazine) and You Tube channel (Whisky Magazine).

@BainsWhisky

@ThreeShipsSA

@TheWhiskyMaker

#WhiskyMagAwards 

#whiskymagazine #whiskyindustry #drinks #whisky #iconsofwhisky

#ProudlySouthAfrican

#TeamDistell

Black Velvet Whisky Introduces Black Velvet Apple

A natural fit for the Black Velvet flavors lineup, apple continues to see heightened success across brown spirits as the leading flavor. Black Velvet Apple delivers a smooth, balanced taste with a burst of tart, green apple followed by a bright, crisp finish. Apple joins Black Velvet Toasted Caramel to further expand the current flavor offerings in the franchise.BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Black Velvet Whisky, the second-largest selling Canadian whisky in the world, today launched Black Velvet Apple. With its perfect blend of original Black Velvet Canadian Whisky and natural apple flavors, the new flavor is ripe for success amongst a growing category.

“Black Velvet Apple is an approachable flavor that marries the quality of Black Velvet Whisky with the hottest flavor in brown spirits today for an extraordinary taste,” said Hannah Venhoff, Group Product Director, Heaven Hill Brands. “With renewed attention and investment in Black Velvet, we are invigorating the brand with thoughtful innovation that honors the Black Velvet legacy and brings new consumers to this iconic brand.”

Heaven Hill Brands acquired the Black Velvet Distilling Company in November 2019, quickly moving forward on infrastructure developments to build upon the success and experience of the Black Velvet team in Lethbridge, Canada. Building on the success of Toasted Caramel, flavor innovation with Black Velvet Apple introduces the next phase of investment in the historic brand, welcoming in new consumers and providing choice to current fans. Black Velvet Apple will be supported at retail with point of sale and displays, as well as across trade media.

Black Velvet Apple will be available in limited markets February 2021 at a suggested retail price of $10.99/750ml. Bottled at 70 proof, Black Velvet Apple will be produced in 1.75L, 750ml, and 50ml.

Enjoy Black Velvet Apple served neat, over ice, with your favorite mixer, or in one of the following refreshing cocktails:

Canadian Mounty Mule

½ oz. Lime Juice2 oz. Black Velvet Apple

3 oz. Ginger Ale

Build all ingredients in a mule mug or collins glass over ice, stir, and garnish with lime

Oldman Old Fashioned

1 ½ oz. Black Velvet Whisky¾ oz. Black Velvet Apple

3 dashes of Angostura Bitters

2 dashes of Orange Bitters

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir well until chilled. Serve over ice and garnish with orange peel.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy and Burnett’s Vodkas; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; The Christian Brothers Brandies; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur.

CONNOISSEURS OFFERED DEEPER INSIGHT INTO THE GLENDRONACH WITH CASK STRENGTH BATCH 9

The GlenDronach Distillery has today (4th February) released its ninth limited edition release of its Cask Strength Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, matured in Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from Andalucía. This richly-sherried expression offers connoisseurs a deeper insight into the distillery’s signature profile, by bottling the whisky at its natural cask strength of 59.4%, to bring out the full character and depth of maturation.

With each unique Cask Strength release, Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie individually selects and combines the perfect marriage of sherry casks before they are bottled at natural cask strength, as was custom before the turn of the 20th Century. With every expression of The GlenDronach, the deep, natural colour is drawn from slow maturation in Spanish oak casks. The Pedro Ximénez casks impart rich, fruit flavours, whilst dry and nutty notes come from the Oloroso casks.

Little has changed over the centuries at The GlenDronach, where they carry forth the tradition and time-honoured methods that have been practiced since the distillery was established almost two hundred years ago. Founder, James Allardice, was an early pioneer of sherry cask maturation and deemed the distillery’s complex and full bodied spirit perfect for slow maturation in Spanish oak sherry casks; a popular import into Scotland from Spain in the 19th century.

Master Blender, Dr. Rachel Barrie said:

“The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 9 is incredibly rich and full-bodied; the result of years of slow maturation in Pedro Ximénez puncheons and Oloroso sherry butts.

Add a drop or two of water to reveal a cornucopia of flavour; from treacle toffee and raisin-filled toasted brioche, to baked apple and bramble pie and star anise.This crescendos into a lingering dark chocolate, espresso coffee finish. The depth of this Highland Single Malt’s character is boundless.”

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep copper
Nose: Cocoa, liquorice root and baked orange on a base of sultana bread and crème brûlée.
Palate: Treacle toffee and raisin-filled toasted brioche crescendo to baked apple and bramble pie, butterscotch and star anise.
Finish: Layers of richly roasted malt, and a lingering dark chocolate, espresso finish.
ABV: 59.4%
RRP: £72

The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 9 is bottled at 59.4% ABV, and as is the case for all The GlenDronach expressions, develops its deep colour naturally over time from the Spanish oak in which it rests. It will be available to buy from specialist retailers worldwide from February 2021 (global markets may vary) and in the US from June 2021.

Notes 

About The GlenDronach Distillery:

Nestled in the valley of Forgue, deep in the East Highland hills, is The GlenDronach, one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland. The GlenDronach is of true Highland style: a complex and full bodied spirit, perfect for slow maturation in Spanish sherry oak. At The GlenDronach Distillery, we have carried forth the tradition of our founder James Allardice since 1826, maturing our Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky in the finest Spanish Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from Andalucía in Spain.

Our richly-sherried Highland Single Malts are recognised for their deep colour and complex flavour profiles, which range from the sweet fruity flavours of the Pedro Ximénez casks we select, to the dry and nutty notes of our Oloroso casks.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE GLENDRONACH DISTILLERY:

Visit: www.glendronachdistillery.co.uk
Facebook: /TheGlenDronach
Twitter: @Glendronach
Instagram: @Glendronach

John Crabbie & Co Announces Launch of 1992 28 YO Speyside Single Malt

Pioneering Scotch whisky brand, John Crabbie & Co, is building upon its award winning Independent Bottling credentials and continuing its legacy of innovation with the launch of a new single cask, 28 YO Speyside Single Malt, of which just 260 bottles will be released.

One of the brand’s oldest expressions to date, this rare, 1992 Speyside Single Malt has been matured for 28 years in a single cask from an unnamed distillery in the Glenlivet Valley of Speyside. It boasts fresh fruit aromas on the nose, with hints of spicy oak, toffee apples and chocolate caramels on the palate, all rounded off with a lovely smooth, sweet creamy finish.

Bottled at 45.5% at Crabbie’s own facility in Edinburgh, it is presented in an elegant wooden presentation case, and in Crabbie’s new, bespoke bottles. These feature embossed detailing to showcase the distinctive Crabbie elephant and ‘Leith, Edinburgh’ wording in order to further emphasise the heritage and provenance of the brand.

John Kennedy, Commercial Controller for Scotland, John Crabbie & Co, comments, “John Crabbie was well renowned for sourcing whiskies from the very best distilleries in Scotland, and as we seek to continue his legacy – this 1992 Speyside Single Malt is certainly no exception. Given the quality of the liquid and the real rarity of an age release from this Speyside distillery, this is an incredibly exciting launch for the John Crabbie brand, and we’re confident that it’ll be well-received amongst whisky fans. Plus, with the price point, and the limited production, we don’t think it’ll be available for long”.

The RRP for Crabbie’s 1992 28 YO Speyside Single Malt is £350. It is available to order now.

NOTES: 

John Crabbie & Co is owned by the UK’s leading independent alcoholic drinks manufacturer, Halewood Artisanal Spirits. www.crabbiewhisky.com

Awards:

Crabbie Whisky 30 Year Old Single Malt Scotch

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2018 – Double Gold

IWSC (International Wine & Spirits Competition) – Silver

International Spirits Challenge 2018 – Silver

Crabbie 12 Year Old Single Whisky

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020 – Gold

IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition) 2019 – Gold (95pts)

Crabbie Whisky 8 Year Old Single Malt Scotch

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019 – Gold

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2018 – Gold

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019 – Double Gold

IWSC (International Wine & Spirits Competition) – Silver

International Spirits Challenge 2018 – Silver

IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition) 2019 – Silver (91pts)

Crabbie’s Yardhead

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019 – Gold

About Halewood Artisanal Spirits

For all the latest news and launches:

Instagram:  @halewood_artisanal_spirits

Twitter: @HalewoodIntern1

Facebook: @HalewoodArtisanalSpirits

LinkedIn: Halewood Artisanal Spirits

Halewood Artisanal Spirits is an award-winning UK-based craft distiller and the winner of the IWSC UK Gin Producer 2018 Award. Premium gin brands include Whitley Neill, J. J. Whitley, City of London Distillery, Marylebone Gin and Liverpool Gin.

Halewood has a strong portfolio of other high growth premium sprits, including Dead Man’s Fingers spiced rum, Rum Sixty Six, The Pogues Irish Whiskey, Gelston’s Irish Whiskey and Crabbie Whisky.

In the 2020 IWSC Awards, Halewood’s artisanal spirits won 3 gold outstanding, 6 gold, 12 silver and 23 bronze medals. In the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition they were awarded four double golds, 9 golds, 15 silvers and 24 bronze Awards. The spirits also won 9 silver and 5 bronze Awards in the Global Spirits Masters and two gold, ten silver and six Bronze in the International Spirits Challenge, 2019.

Halewood Artisanal Spirits was also recently ranked as no. 45 out of 250 in the recent Sunday Times Fast Track Awards League Table, which recognises Britain’s leading mid-market companies with the biggest sales.

The business operates 11 artisanal distilleries across the UK, Russia, Australia and South Africa including:  The Liverpool Gin Distillery, Crabbie Distillery in Edinburgh, Aber Falls Distillery in North Wales, Bankhall Distillery in Blackpool, The City of London and Marylebone Distilleries in London, The Bristol & Bath Rum Distillery, Ironbark in Sydney, Halewood in South Africa and JJ Whitley in Russia. The company also operates the Hawkshead Brewery in Cumbria.

Outside the UK, the business exports products to over 90 countries around the world and has significant operations in a number of international markets including North America, Canada, Russia, Australia and China. The business has a £400m+ turnover, and employs over 750 employees globally.

The business was founded by the late John Halewood in 1978 and it remains owned and controlled by the Halewood family.

Heaven Hill Brands Introduces Environmental Sustainability Strategy for Next Decade

Largest Independent, Family-Owned and Operated Distilled Spirits Supplier Identifies Four Key Areas to Cultivate Sustainable, Thriving Communities

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Brands announced today the company’s first official environmental sustainability strategy that addresses pressing environmental challenges within the industry and local communities in four key areas: water, emissions, waste, and conservation. As a leader in the industry since 1935, Heaven Hill’s success has been built on a commitment to integrity in the communities where employees work and live. These specific efforts set the course for continued resiliency, both a hallmark of Heaven Hill’s 85-year history and a guiding concept for the future.

“Heaven Hill has always strived to be a good partner in our communities and to be a good steward of the natural resources used to create our products,” said Rachel Nally, Heaven Hill Brands Manager of Environment & Sustainability. “Cultivating sustainable and thriving communities is important for our employees, our partners, and our neighbors. We are passionate about this next era in our commitment to responsibly use natural resources, reduce energy use, safely dispose waste, and conserve the ecosystems that support our business.”

The following goals were developed with a focus on science-based research, international climate standards, and internal expertise, and have been deemed necessary to achieve by 2030:

1. Use water more efficiently by improving water use efficiency by 15%
2. Drive toward zero carbon emissions by reducing carbon emissions from operations by 30%
3. Reduce waste by eliminating 10% of waste generated by operations, reducing virgin plastic in bottles by 50%, and working towards zero waste visitor experiences
4. Conserve the ecosystems that support the business by sponsoring planting of 5,000 trees of substantial size in local communities, supporting sustainable white oak supply, and supporting sustainable agriculture

Significant investments in these efforts across production, new technology and training initiatives are currently underway. A legacy of good stewardship of natural resources to create Heaven Hill’s products set the runway for this future growth. Heaven Hill has implemented a variety of projects over recent years, including replacement of light fixtures with more energy efficient LED bulbs, implementation of recycling programs within operations, completion of multiple boiler efficiency projects to reduce energy needs, and tree plantings around Bernheim Distillery. Over the course of the next decade, both corporate and branded initiatives will continue to be announced to support these goals as the long-term vision takes shape. To learn more about Heaven Hill’s environmental sustainability efforts, visit here.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and operated spirits producer and marketer and the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy and Burnett’s Vodkas; Admiral Nelson’s and Blackheart Rums; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; The Christian Brothers Brandies; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY REPORTS STRONG VISITATION FOR 2020 DESPITE COVID-19 SETBACKS

More than 145,000 Guests Visited Oldest Continually Operating Distillery in 2020

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Jan. 26, 2021) – To say 2020 was a challenging year is an understatement, but making the most out of the unprecedented year is just what Buffalo Trace Distillery strived to do.

Despite a nearly four-month closure at the onset of the pandemic, and now limiting the number of guests it can welcome, Buffalo Trace is reporting strong visitation for 2020, all thanks to the many guests who felt comfortable visiting the Distillery during this time. The Distillery, which closed its doors to public visitation in early March, reopened July 1^st and welcomed 145,365 visitors throughout 2020 and actually grew visitation year-over-year in December.

Having welcomed nearly 300,000 guests in 2019, the Distillery shifted focus when the pandemic struck, utilizing the closure to drive forward with a massive expansion of its Visitor Center and enhance safety and sanitation protocols.

“As soon as the pandemic hit we got to work making modifications in order to be able to reopen safely and really create a comfortable environment for our guests,” Homeplace Development Director Meredith Moody said. “Our sincere thanks goes to the thousands of visitors, from across the country, who have felt confident in our safety protocols and chose to visit Buffalo Trace Distillery since we reopened.”

Upon reopening to the public in July, the Distillery began offering a safe haven bourbon experience for guests, and debuted its expanded Visitor Center, which triples the size of the previous space. The expanded Visitor Center conveniently allows for easier social distancing, and provides ample space and comfort for guests exploring the Gift Shop or tasting in the new expansive tasting rooms. With the reopening, Buffalo Trace kept its complimentary tours, but began limiting tour group sizes, accepting visitors by registration only, and implementing increased sanitation, mask-wearing and social distancing campus wide.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is the first year the Distillery has not set a new record for in-person visitation since 2010, but paired with its increased virtual tourism numbers, the Distillery is showing no signs of slowing down.

In May, Buffalo Trace began hosting live stream segments on social media each week, called Whiskey Wednesday. From May 13 through December, these episodes were viewed by more than 3.6 million people around the world. The Distillery is continuing its Whiskey Wednesday episodes in 2021, continuing to feature a variety of topics including more bourbon tastings, behind-the scenes tours, trivia, history and special guests.

“With the many challenges 2020 brought to all of us, we are thankful to have seen such robust visitation, and even year-over-year growth around the holidays,” Moody said. “We are encouraged by the visitation we have experienced since reopening and look forward to welcoming more visitors to the Distillery in 2021.”

The Distillery, which has remained operational as an essential business, also undertook hand sanitizer production at the onset of the pandemic, having now created about 1.1 million gallons on an industrial scale for some of the world’s largest organizations in healthcare, government, military, retail, distribution, airline, pharmacy, and banking industries. This is in addition to its never-ceasing bourbon production, and its ongoing $1.2 billion infrastructure improvement and distillery expansion to increase production for future bourbon demand.

Operating hours for Buffalo Trace Distillery are 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday. Registrations for the Trace Tour, Old Taylor Tour, Bourbon Barrel Tour and Expansion Tour can be made at https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/visit-us.html. All tours are complimentary and include a socially distanced tasting. Curbside sales also continue. To place an order visit https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/shop.html.

A complete list of safety procedures, along with information about enacted sanitation measures and protective equipment in use can be found here.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 35 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year 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

SCOTLAND’S  BIGGEST WHISKY FESTIVAL GOES VIRTUAL IN APRIL

FULL FESTIVAL MOVED TO NOVEMBER SUBJECT TO COVID CONDITIONS

Spirit of Speyside festival has today (Thursday 28th January) confirmed that it is going to bring together some of the region’s most loved distilleries and whisky makers online instead of in person in April. With a full programme to be announced in the coming weeks, events confirmed so far include a tour of one of Scotland’s newest and most contemporary distilleries, Dalmunach Distillery, from Master Distiller, Alan Winchester; an exploration of Benriach’s World of Flavour and new portfolio with Global Brand Ambassador Stewart Buchanan and a whistle stop virtual tasting tour of Malt Whisky Country with The Malt Whisky Trail.

Festival organisers are hopeful that the event, which would have been celebrating its 21st year in April, will be able to go ahead in person on 3rd – 8th November 2021 providing it is safe for everyone to travel at that time, based on Scottish Government advice.

The decision to postpone original plans for the 2021 Whisky Festival reflects the quickly-evolving situation as a result of the new variant of the Covid-19 virus and current recommendations from the Scottish Government to restrict public gatherings and travel as a preventative measure.

James Campbell, Chairman at The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, said: 
 
“Given whisky lovers won’t be able to come to Speyside for our annual festival this April, we have decided to take the festival to them until it is safe for visitors to return to Malt Whisky Country hopefully later in the year.

We can’t wait to welcome new and returning visitors from the UK and further afield to this beautiful part of the world. In the meantime, we hope that our online programme of events in April will lift everyone’s spirits and give people a taste of what to expect from the festival in November. We will then revert back to our traditional date in 2022.”

The full programme of virtual events will be listed on www.spiritofspeyside.com and will be available for preview on 11th March 2021. Tickets will go on sale online on 16th March 2021.

Notes:

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. With a programme of over hundreds of whisky-inspired events over six days, the Festival is a mecca for the curious beginner and the whisky connoisseur alike. Festival events take 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.

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 six days of 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. For further information please visit:

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

STAY-AT-HOME WITH CUPID:

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WITH THE WORLD’S MOST ENTERTAINING WHISKY CLUB

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society announces popular SMWS Home Dining experience is available for UK mainland delivery this Valentine’s Day

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) is bringing its first-class Home Dining experience to you, wherever you are. With the entire country being asked to stay at home once more, SMWS continue to share the Society experience with all members across the UK this Valentine’s Day.

Home Dining kits are available for delivery across mainland UK on 4^th – 5^th and 11^th – 12^th February, priced at £95 for 2 people or £165 for four. They are also available for click and collect from the 28 Queen Street, Edinburgh or 38 Bath Street, Glasgow Members’ Rooms on 4-6^th and 11-13^th February priced at £85 for 2 people or £155 for 4 people: https://smws.com/home-dining

The Feast of Saint Valentine was established in AD 496, to be celebrated annually on 14^th February in honour of Saint Valentine of Rome. This year, the award-winning SMWS team from Edinburgh’s 28 Queen Street will prepare an exceptional three-course menu, served alongside chef’s own chocolate truffles and a special Cupid’s Whisky Sour cocktail, and of course three expertly paired SMWS drams.

For the true SMWS experience, you will also receive videos from Executive Head Chef James Freeman and SMWS ambassadors, helping you skillfully plate your meal and appreciate your delicious drams.

SMWS have launched dedicated social channels along with the hashtag #smwshomedining to support the growing appreciation of their Home Dining experience:

F: https://www.facebook.com/smwsathome/

T: https://twitter.com/SMWSathome

I: https://www.instagram.com/smwsathome/

Unique whisky experiences that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home are at the heart of this colourful whisky club, and annual membership starts from just £65: https://smws.com/whisky-club-membership

But being part of its ever-growing community of over 27,000 whisky fans goes beyond the Society’s outstanding single-cask spirits. Membership provides exclusive access to Members’ Rooms in Edinburgh, London and Glasgow as well as a calendar of UK-wide virtual tasting events. 

https://www.smws.com/

f: https://www.facebook.com/thesmwsuk

i: https://www.instagram.com/smws_uk/

t: https://twitter.com/SMWSUK

yt: https://www.youtube.com/user/SMWSsilverscreen/videos

#SMWS 

Notes:

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 27,000 members and branches around the world
• The SMWS bottles rare single cask, single malt whisky, and a range of other spirits
• The Society bottles single malts, unique single casks and exclusive blends
• The Society has bottled whisky from more than 146 distilleries from Scotland and beyond
• The Society offers a new batch of around 20 single cask, single malt whiskies every month
• The Society offers a variety of membership packages which can be tailored. Please see https://bit.ly/2uqKanT
• For more information about the Society, visit https://bit.ly/2HHiNyC
• Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk

New single malt whisky distillery for Speyside Distillers as firm reveals plans for expansion

A major new distillery development has been announced for the Speyside region of Scotland.

Speyside Distillers, which operates the Speyside Distillery near Kingussie, has revealed its intention to build a new, state-of-the-art distillery in the region as part of its ambitious plans for expansion.

The firm – which is best known for its award-winning SPEY single malts – has also recently taken on two new members of distilling staff to assist with increased production.

Managing director Patricia Dillon said: “Last year was challenging for us, as it was for most businesses dealing with Covid-19. With our industry also facing the added problem of US tariffs, we have had to change our strategy to find new and innovative ways to drive our business forward.

Speyside Distillers Managing Director Patricia Dillon

“In 2019 we committed to increasing our distillate to meet rising demand, and this year we are producing five times our normal rates.

“Our plans for a new distillery will ensure that we can continue to distil the quantities of whisky required, while also allowing us room for further expansion.

“Although our full plans – including location and design – are currently under wraps, we’re looking forward to sharing more as they unfold over the coming months and years.”

Chief executive John Harvey McDonough is confident that this is the perfect next step for the SPEY brand and his Harvey family legacy. He said: “Building a new distillery is obviously a major commitment, and we are incredibly excited about the opportunities it shall bring for our single malt whisky brands.

John Harvey McDonough

“In recent months we have brought in two new team members – Martin MacLeod and Raymond MacKay – to assist long-serving employee Andrew Scorgie and distillery manager Allan Findlay, which will allow us to maintain the levels of production required to match demand.

“It’s important to us that we continue to embrace experience and history within the whisky industry, while also continuing to innovate and nurture new talent to ensure its bright future.”

Speyside Distillers operates the boutique Speyside Distillery near Kingussie, nestled in the foothills of the stunning Cairngorms National Park. Exporting its high-quality spirits to 32 countries around the world, the distillery is well known for its single malt whiskies – SPEY and Beinn Dubh – made using traditional methods, as well as the popular Byron’s Gin. Although not open to the general public, the distillery’s award-winning spirits are available from its visitor centre, The Snug, in Aviemore.

For more information, visit www.speysidedistillery.co.uk and www.thesnugspeysidedistillery.co.uk or follow the distillery on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

BOWMORE® ISLAY SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY DEBUTS ANNUAL 30 YEAR OLD RELEASE 

A Celebratory Spirit Definitively Shaped By Time From One Of The World’s Oldest Maturation Warehouses

Islay, Scotland (January 2021) – Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky has unveiled its first annual release 30 Year Old in celebration of how time shapes the exceptional Bowmore character and bringing a new aged expression to the global portfolio.

For more than 240 years, Bowmore Distillery has captured the essence of Islay from the shores of its remote island home. This single malt harnesses the power of time in every single drop, which tells a story of the past that’s savored in the present. This a single malt defined, shaped and crafted by time. 

Distilled in 1989, this rare single malt whisky has been carefully nurtured for three decades in Bowmore’s finest Sherry hogsheads and Bourbon barrels. It is matured in the legendary Bowmore No. 1 Vaults, one of the world’s oldest maturation warehouses. Selected from just two casks each year, this is an exceptional single malt that embodies the last thirty years at the very core of its character.

Bottled at a cask strength of 45.3% alcohol by volume, this 30 Year Old is a celebration of Bowmore’s rich fruity and subtly smoky style. With a burnished gold natural color, this whisky offers up aromas of heather, bananas, peaches, pineapple, vanilla and butterscotch. While on the palate, tropical fruits and honey sweetness unite with subtle peat smoke and hints of eucalyptus, ensuring a warming and lingering finish.

“By adding an ongoing 30 Year Old Bowmore to the portfolio, we are able to showcase how vital the length of time spent in casks shapes and influences our spirit, making it even more exceptional and full of character,” said David Turner, Bowmore Distillery Manager. “Each annual release will tell the rich story of Bowmore, but importantly each will have their own unique style and character. As for this release, this is another perfect example of classic Bowmore but with boundless depth and intrigue reflecting the long standing interaction of spirit and wood.”

With only 2,580 bottles available globally as of late 2020, Bowmore 30-Year-Old is inspired by the terrain that surrounds the Bowmore Distillery and the legendary landscape that defines our whisky. Capturing the art of time, the bottle and box containing this whisky take cues from the detailed markings on driftwood and the refined polish of sea glass, reflecting its eternal connection with Islay.

Bowmore® 30-Year-Old is available from January 2021 with an SRP of $2,500 in the U.S.  

Tasting notes: Bowmore 30-Year-Old – 45.3% ABV

COLOR: Burnished gold

NOSE: Heather honey, bananas and peaches, with pineapple, vanilla and butterscotch

TASTE: Tropical fruits with honey sweetness, subtle peat smoke and hints of eucalyptus

FINISH: Mouth warming, with ripe fruits lingering on the tongue 

ABOUT BOWMORE

Founded in 1779, Bowmore® is the oldest licensed distillery on Islay, one of the Scottish isles which make up the region known as the ‘Islands’ in the lexicon of Whisky. The other regions are the Highlands, Speyside and the Lowlands.  Islay malts are famous for their characteristic smokiness and Bowmore is no exception; the malt is carefully smoked in a peat-fired kiln, using skills honed over two centuries to craft a perfectly balanced Single Malt.

Time is savored at Bowmore and the distillery’s adherence to traditional production methods helps to shape the character of its Single Malts. Today, it prides itself as one of the rare distilleries which still produces its own floor malted barley, hand-turned by a traditional wooden malt shovel and hand drawn machinery.  Water for the whiskies is specially drawn from the Laggan River.

Bowmore Distillery’s close proximity to the sea is also vital in determining the final character of its spirit. The legendary Bowmore No. 1 Vaults, one of the world’s oldest maturation warehouses, is where most of the whiskies spend their long lives resting quietly in the cool, dark, damp cellars below sea level, oblivious to the waves thrashing the vault’s sea-facing wall.

They mature in oak casks, previously used for bourbon, sherry or claret, gradually developing rich and mellow flavors until the expertise of our whisky makers deems them ready for bottling.  It is this combination of peat, barley, sea breeze, water, wood, people and tradition that together create the perfectly balanced warm and smoky character of Bowmore® Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. Through peerless maturation expertise and sense of timing, Bowmore® is “Time, Savoured®” – a rich reward for those that appreciate the value of time and an exquisite whisky coveted the world over.

Bowmore USA domestic product range: Bowmore 12 Year Old, 15 Year Old, 18 Year Old and 25 Year Old.

Please enjoy more detailed Bowmore information on our recently updated website at www.bowmore.com On Facebook | Twitter | Instagram: BOWMORE

ABOUT BEAM SUNTORY

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and On The Rocks Premium Cocktails.  Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com