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

ICONIC SCOTCH DISTILLERIES THE GLENLIVET, ABERLOUR AND SCAPA RELEASE RARE AGED COLLECTIONS IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

This winter, Scotch whisky drinkers will have the chance to get their hands on three exceptionally rare limited-edition collections from the Chivas Brothers single malt portfolio; The Glenlivet Cellar Collection, The Aberlour Cellar Collection and The Scapa Single Cask Vintage Editions.  

The distillery exclusives feature some of the oldest whiskies released from these iconic distilleries and for the first time ever, the sought-after single malts will be available for UK-based customers to order from the comfort of their own homes. With just over 600 bottles available across the three distilleries, these expressions are incredibly rare, and once they’re gone, they’re gone forever.

The age and rarity of the expressions, together with the extremely limited number of each bottle available, make these collections the perfect gift or collector’s item. Historically such collections have been seldom released and have only been available to purchase directly from the distilleries in Speyside and Orkney, Scotland, making this a golden opportunity for Scotch fans to savour a piece of whisky history at home.

Miriam Eceolaza, Marketing Director for Malts at Chivas Brothers commented:  

“It has been an incredibly challenging year and we recognise it hasn’t been easy for Scotch enthusiasts to travel to our distilleries in Speyside and Orkney. We’re so pleased that we’re now able to give Scotch whisky fans the opportunity to order some of the most exceptionally rare aged malts from our portfolio straight to their door. 

“These collections are some of the oldest that have ever been bottled and released by The Glenlivet, Scapa and Aberlour. The exclusivity of these expressions is unlike anything we have ever released before, and we hope our fans relish the opportunity to taste real history with these delicious collections.”   

The Glenlivet Cellar Collection  

The Glenlivet Cellar Collection includes some of the oldest and most limited expressions of the iconic original Speyside single malt, with the youngest bottle aged for a minimum of 30 years.  

The full Collection comprises a 30 year old, a 33 year old, a 38 year old and a 40 year old that bring to life the full knowledge and expertise of the Speyside distillery’s past. Bottled at cask strength and non-chill filtered, with a limited amount of each expression available, the launch gives fans of The Glenlivet a chance to add a piece of heritage from this original Speyside single malt to their collection.  

The longer maturation of these unique expressions gives an additional layer of depth and complexity to the whisky’s character and flavour, whilst maintaining the signature style of The Glenlivet: smooth, balanced and fruity.   

The Aberlour Cellar Collection  

The Aberlour Cellar Collection is a first for the distillery and honours the craft of this renowned single malt, by offering a very limited number of expressions that are amongst the oldest released by Aberlour – a 39 year old and a 44 year old. 

Aberlour is known for balancing its meticulous maker’s craft with the natural maturation process, something that will come to the forefront in this collection as the Aberlour 44 year old is the oldest release to be bottled by Aberlour, and with just 42 bottles available, it is incredibly exclusive.  

The Scapa Single Cask Vintage Editions  

The Scapa Single Cask Vintage Editions are the most exceptionally rare single malts released by the distillery, consisting of a 29 year old, 41 year old and 42 year old – with a run of just 102 bottles available across all ages.  

The first new bottlings from Scapa in over four years, the whiskies were all distilled and filled into single casks between 1977 and 1990, and have aged in the finest American Oak barrels, with the 1977 being the oldest release to come from Scapa ever – with only 12 bottles available.

Whisky Intel is playing catch up, this appears as a matter of record.

JOSHUA VIDES REIMAGINES BALLANTINE’S ICONIC BOTTLE AND BACK STORY FOR STRIKING MONOCHROMATIC LIMITED-EDITION

Joshua Vides reinterprets the world of Scotch whisky to redesign Ballantine’s iconic bottle, a series of pop-up bars and a limited-edition briefcase in a nod to the brand’s prohibition era past.

Ballantine’s Scotch whisky has teamed up with renowned artist Joshua Vides, who brings his signature black and white touch to its new limited-edition.

Staying true to his style of reinterpreting everyday objects to make them unique, Vides has been invited by Ballantine’s to reinterpret its iconic Finest bottle and gift tin, as well as elements of the brand’s rich legacy and pioneering spirit.

The California-based creative is known across the globe for his comic book style transformation of objects and spaces with hand-drawn illustrations and bold linework. His work and style embody Ballantine’s ethos of doing things your own way; taking an original approach to design with everything he does, without compromising his artistic integrity.

Just as Ballantine’s looks to break the conventional codes of whisky and challenge people’s perceptions of Scotch, Joshua does the same through his perspective-altering visuals. To overcome prohibition laws in 1920, Ballantine’s launched its rectangular bottle to be concealed in briefcases.  Inspired by the story 100 years later, Vides has not only reworked the iconic bottle, he has also designed a one-of-a-kind briefcase which will be dropping soon worldwide.

Installations are a staple of Joshua Vides’ artistry, so to further celebrate the launch, he will be reinterpret the place where Ballantine’s is best enjoyed – the bar – by creating a series of striking black and white spaces, that will be popping up in cities from Poland to China at the start of next year, with programmes of exclusive events and workshops.

Joshua Vides said of the collaboration:

“I’m more than excited to be working with Ballantine’s on my first official bottle. From the jump the energy has been high and we’ve been able to organically create elements in this project from start to finish. I believe we share a similar drive and determination to create on our own terms. Do it yourself mentality till the wheels fall off.“

Ballantine’s Marketing Director, Mathieu Deslandes, added:

“Ballantine’s has such a rich heritage that we’ve been able to explore and elevate through our collaboration with Joshua. Our approach is very similar which has made the whole project as exciting as it had been collaborative. We are all about championing those who do things their own way as we do with Scotch – and Joshua does the same with his artwork. The limited editions are our most disruptive to date and we look forward to turning shelves black and white across the world.”

Designed in Joshua Vides’ signature style, the Ballantine’s x Joshua Vides limited-edition bottles will be available from 24^th November on Amazon in the most disruptive change to the Finest bottle since its launch in 1827.

Keep an eye on Ballantine’s and Joshua’s channels for more information on how you can get your hands on the one-of-a-kind briefcase.

For more on the Ballantine’s x Joshua Vides collaboration visit ballantines.com

FIRST EVER COMPASS BOX AUCTION CELEBRATES THE 21ST CENTURY REINVENTION OF THE BLEND

When it comes to the art of whisky making, it is often creativity and the courage to experiment that results in the creation of something exceptional.

Now, a collection of bottles produced by one of the world’s most innovative whisky makers, Compass Box, is going under the hammer in an exclusive online auction hosted by Whisky Auctioneer. From today (Thursday 14th January) until 18th January, over 130 expressions including 70 limited editions produced by the disruptive blender will feature in the sale, including the company’s inaugural release, Hedonism, which  launched in 2000.

Collated by one devoted and anonymous whisky enthusiast, known only as Pat, this Compass Box collection was part of Pat’s extraordinary library of over 9,000 bottles. Fuelled by a passion to learn, sip, share and savour whiskies from around the world, his genuine interest took him beyond tradition to discover boutique expressions bursting with quality and character.

In what marks the first dedicated Compass Box auction in the brand’s history, and the largest offering of its expressions to go on the secondary market from a single owner, Pat now hopes to spark the same interest in budding collectors.

The auction will also offer collectors and whisky fans a number of exclusive U.S only bottlings, including the ultra-desirable collaboration with Bern’s Steak House in Tampa, Florida.  The collaboration gave rise to Bern’s Blended Grain, a 41 Year Old made up of five unique casks from Strathclyde and Girvan. Of the 618 bottles produced, only 120 were available in retail.

Other sought after and limited expressions to feature include Mariage, Optimism, Lady Luck, The General and the 10^th Anniversary Hedonism bottling celebrating the company’s ten year milestone; this was an extremely rare bottling of 38 year old Invergordon single grain whisky distilled in 1971, of which there are just 120 bottles in existence.

James Saxon, Whiskymaker at Compass Box:

“In a collection whose stated aim is amassing whiskies that offer both rarity and serious drinking pleasure, it is wonderful to see so many Compass Box releases represented amongst these 9,000 bottles. We started Compass Box to share the joys of Scotch whisky with more people, an ethos that clearly resonates with this collector.

“To see so many of our past projects and releases represented – and in their own auction – is a first for us. If successful bidders would like to learn more about the stories and processes behind their new whiskies, they have only to reach out to us.”

Joe Wilson, Head of Auction Content at Whisky Auctioneer, said:

“This is the first time that a dedicated collection of Compass Box has become available at auction, so we’re very excited to offer our whisky fans such a varied selection of whiskies that can really add something novel to their collections.

“Blends have been soaring in popularity as more and more whisky fans look beyond the boundaries of what is traditionally perceived as quality, and we are delighted to spotlight the flag-bearers for the 21st century revival of the category.”

Over the past 12 months Whisky Auctioneer has recorded an increase in page views by over 25% for Compass Box, and the value of its whiskies has risen significantly, with their inaugural release increasing by over 850% in value since 2015.

Boundary breakers and masters of innovation, Compass Box was founded in 2000 by John Glaser, a former marketing director for the Johnnie Walker brand, who fell in love with Scotch whisky and the idea of blending whisky as a creative art. Its core range consists of The Spice Tree, The Peat Monster, Oak Cross, Asyla and Hedonism blends and aims to reinvent the Scotch whisky category with its exceptional quality and limited releases.

Whisky Auctioneer’s auctions are world leading and record breaking. Unmatched in auction volume, variety of bottles offered, prices achieved, global reach, service standards upheld and broadness of knowledge and expertise, the company is truly a global authority.

To find out more and to register to take part in upcoming auctions please visit www.whiskyauctioneer.com

Notes: 

About Whisky Auctioneer 

Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at auction.

Founded in 2013 and located in Perth, Whisky Auctioneer utilises its expertise and knowledge combined with its auction platform, to increase interest and passion in the whisky and spirits community.

Whisky Auctioneer endeavours to make the market more accessible for buyers and sellers of any background and geography. Its monthly global auctions feature the most comprehensive selection of old, rare and collectible whiskies and spirits available online. Whisky Auctioneer is passionate about connecting these bottles with those who share in their passion and actively support their customers in their aims, whether that be consuming, collecting or investing.

About Compass Box 

Compass Box is a blending company founded in 2000 by John Glaser, a former marketing director for the Johnnie Walker brand. Their core range consists of The Spice Tree, The Peat Monster, Oak Cross, Asyla and Hedonism blends, and they regularly produce limited editions as well. The company prides itself on its boundary-pushing approach to its creations, and on occasion, boundary-crossing creations, such as the original Spice Tree in 2005 which was banned for its use of suspended staves in casks.

They have gained worldwide attention, including from the single-malt oriented collectors impressed by the whisky makers skill in marrying whiskies together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.    

Visit:  www.whiskyauctioneer.com

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Special Guests for The Water of Life Film – Burns Night Celebration Announced

Some of the greats of the whisky world join The Water of Life – A Whisky Film – Burns Night Celebration January 22 – 27, 2021 to support the launch of the Film 

LOS ANGELES – JANUARY 07 2021 – Producers Blacksmith + Jones today follow up on last month’s announcement of the launch event for The Water of Life – A Whisky Film with the announcement of the special guests who will be joining the Burns Night Celebration January 22^nd – 27^th, 2021. (https://www.wateroflifefilm.com/ )

The Burns Night Celebration is a 6-day long virtual online program which will include daily screenings of the film accompanied by an hour-long panel discussion and Q&A session featuring different stars from the film each day.  Additionally, a limited-edition one-off tasting kit (sold where licensing permits), specifically curated to accompany the film is available to take viewers on a taste journey while they watch the movie (where licensing laws permit).

The special guests joining the sessions include Jim McEwan (Master Distiller), Adam Hannett (Bruichladdich), Mark Reynier (Waterford Distillery), Rachel Barrie (Brown-Foreman), Stephen Rankin (Gordon & MacPhail), Liam Hughes (Glasgow Distillery), Charles Maclean (Author & Whisky Consultant), Blair Bowman (Author & Whisky Consultant), and Jenna Elie (Scotch Malt Whisky Society), with more being announced in the coming days.

“In the making of the film we had the pleasure of working with some of the legends of the whisky world. We’re thrilled to be able to give our audience the unique opportunity to not only see the film but to also get to experience first-hand what we did when making it: the opportunity to hear the stories, trials, and successes directly from the people who lived it” said Greg Swartz, Director.

For tickets, tasting kits and other offers please go to https://www.wateroflifefilm.com/

Click on Link to see the trailer https://youtu.be/7AlxfMCwlFk

Click here for bios of the stars of the film https://wateroflifefilm.com/cast/

About The Water of Life

The Water of Life is a feature documentary that focuses on the craftsmen, chemists, and renegades at the heart of the whisky revolution that turned the stagnant scotch whisky industry of the 1980s into the titan it is today.

Starting behind the locked gates of an abandoned distillery, Jim McEwan and Mark Reynier — “the most unlikely partnership in the history of whisky” — share their personal experiences of the risk-taking and wild experimentation they used to turn Bruichladdich into a creative and financial powerhouse.

The film also takes you on the journeys of visionaries like Gordon & MacPhail, Billy Walker, Rachel Barrie and David Stewart, whose mixture of talent, chemistry, hard work, grit, and a little sprinkle of magic paved the way for the next generation of innovators like Adam Hannett, Kelsey McKechnie, Liam Hughes, Iain Croucher, and Eddie Brook.

The Water of Life is a uniquely personal perspective on the evolution of whisky by those who lived it – the story of those who played a key part in rediscovering the crafting of the ancient spirit.

About Blacksmith + Jones

Blacksmith + Jones is a media production company that puts story first. Their primary focus has been in documentary style television and short form projects.  Principals Trevor Jones and Greg Swartz have decades of experience and have produced shows for NatGeo, Discovery Channel and Animal Planet. They have been partners for more than 10 years. The Water of Life is their first feature documentary.

Halewood Artisanal Spirits Appoints Dr Kirstie McCallum as New Master Blender

Halewood Artisanal Spirits has announced the appointment of Dr Kirstie McCallum as its new master blender, as the business looks to strengthen its fast growing whisky portfolio.

McCallum will be responsible for evolving and developing Halewood’s core whisky brands, which includes Crabbie whisky from Scotland, Irish whiskies, Gelston’s & The Pogues, Aber Falls Welsh whisky and Peaky Blinder English whisky from Halewood’s newest distillery in the West Midlands.  In addition, she will work with the group on new projects and expressions.

McCallum has over 20 years experience in the spirits industry, and joins Halewood Artisanal Spirits from Glen Turner, where she worked as head of whisky creation for the Glen Moray brand. Prior to this, she was the senior blender at Distell International, working across the Bunnahabhain, Deanston and Tobermory brands.

Lee Tayburn, Operations and Production Director at Halewood Artisanal Spirits comments; “As a business, we are dedicated to growing our portfolio of artisanal spirits, and of course whisky plays a very important part in this. Over the last five years we have invested heavily in distilleries across the UK and globally, and are constantly evolving to ensure that we provide our customers with premium, quality spirits with provenance. With her extensive experience and expertise, Kirstie will be integral to this, and we look forward to working closely together as we grow and develop our whisky credentials”.

Dr Kirstie McCallum comments; “From brands like Crabbie’s, with its rich whisky history dating back to the 1830s,  to new expressions from younger brands such as Peaky Blinder and The Pogues, Halewood Artisanal Spirits has a very diverse and exciting whisky portfolio. I’m really looking forward to working alongside the team to develop these brands, and using my industry experience to help create the best possible whisky offer”.

NOTES:

About Halewood Artisanal Spirits (www.halewood-int.com)

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.

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.

Drinkaware is an independent UK-wide, alcohol education charity with the objective of positively changing public behaviour and the national drinking culture. It aims to reduce alcohol misuse and minimise harm by helping people make better choices about their drinking. It achieves this by providing impartial, evidence-based information, advice and practical resources; raising awareness of alcohol and its harms and by working collaboratively with partners (including the medical community, public health, third sector organisations, local authorities, police and the drinks industry).

Drinkaware has more than 100 funders, including UK alcohol producers, retailers in the on-trade and off-trade, and wholesalers.

Jim Beam® Debuts National Campaign Encouraging Bored Beer Fans to Take A Break From Beer and Make the Switch to a Refreshing Jim Beam Highball

DEVILS RIVER AND 375 PARK AVENUE SPIRITS FORGE PARTNERSHIP TO ACCELERATE SURGE ACROSS WHISKEY CATEGORY

Louisville, KY (Jan. 6, 2021)— 375 Park Avenue Spirits, a division of the Sazerac Company, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a supply and distribution agreement with Devils River Whiskey effective April 1, 2021.  Under this agreement, 375 Park Avenue Spirits will assume responsibility for all sales and operational functions and will support the brand’s marketing efforts.

“Devils River is an emerging whiskey brand but one that’s made quite a bit of noise since entering the scene back in 2017,” said Jason Schladenhauffen, president and CEO of 375 Park Avenue Spirits. “The brand has established a clear stronghold in its home market of Texas and has steadily been expanding that U.S. footprint over the last 12-18 months.  We expect to take the baton from the Devils River team and increase the pace as we embark on the next leg of their growth trajectory.”

Devils River Whiskey was launched in Texas on April 1, 2017.  The brand’s ascent has been impressive as it is currently available in 29 states and selling over 125,000 cases to date.  They say the devil is in the details.  Devils River Whiskey attributes its quick rise in the category to its meticulous attention to detail as it only uses the finest grains, the limestone filtered spring water from the Devils River region, and its proprietary finishing process.

The brand has been recognized as one of the best whiskies aged less than 10 years by some of the industry’s most discerning judges.  Since its debut in 2017, Devils River Whiskey has collected over 55 medals and is quickly becoming one of the most awarded Texas whiskey brands.

Industry veteran, Jeff Colbert recently joined the Devils River Whiskey leadership team as the company’s new Chief Operating Officer.  Reporting to the company’s three co-founders, Jeff will oversee the company’s day-to-day operations as well as ensure the seamless transition with 375 Park Avenue Spirits.  “Jeff brings a significant track record of commercial leadership and we are confident that he is the right person to lead the company into its next phase of growth,” said Devils River Whiskey President and Co-founder Mike Cameron. “He has a successful track record of cultivating and leading a strong performance-oriented culture, and we believe his reputation for execution and achieving results makes him the right choice to lead our organization.”

“We are extremely excited to be entering into this strategic partnership with 375 Park Avenue Spirits,” said Colbert.  “The collaboration will strengthen Devils River Whiskey’s brand development and provide the competitive edge we need to more effectively compete in today’s competitive whiskey category through the strength of 375 Park Avenue Spirits sales and distribution network.”

Devils River will be available from 375 Park Avenue Spirits beginning on April 1, 2021. Available SKUs include the following: Devils River Bourbon 1.75L, 750ml and 50ml, Devils River Barrel Strength, Rye and Coffee 750 and 50ml and Single Barrel & Barrel Select 750ml’s. 

About 375 Park Avenue Spirits

375 Park Avenue Spirits specializes in the premium- to luxury-spirit categories and our portfolio includes numerous expressions from leading international producers.  Founded as Luctor International, LLC in 1981, 375 Park Avenue Spirits joined the Sazerac Company in early 2015 to act as an independent, yet fully integrated sales and marketing affiliate. The company is known today for creating an environment of growth for supplier partners in the domestic market for renown brands like Van Gogh Vodka from Holland, Sobieski Vodka from Poland, Cutty Sark Blended Scotch, J.P. Wiser’s Canadian Whisky, Paul John Single Malt Whisky from India, Scapegrace Gin from New Zealand, Novo Fogo Cachaca and many others. For more information on 375 Park Avenue Spirits, please visit www.375park.com.  

About Sazerac

Sazerac is one of America’s oldest family owned, privately held distillers with operations in the United States in Louisiana, Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maryland, California, and global operations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Australia and Canada. For more information on Sazerac, please visit www.sazerac.com. 

About Devils River

Devils River Whiskey, a premium whiskey company based in San Antonio, Texas, is committed to creating a whiskey that stands apart from competition because of its use of the purest water in Texas at the heart of the production process.  The brand is comprised of six expressions – Bourbon, Rye, Barrel Strength, Coffee Bourbon, Single Barrel Texas Straight Bourbon and Distiller’s Select Texas Straight Bourbon – and distributed in 29 states. [ TX, OK, AR, LA, CA, CO, MO, KS, NE, IL, WI, IN, KY, FL, GA, TN, SC, NY, NJ, MA, RI, MD, DC, ME, CT, NV, AL, PA, NC ].  Follow Devils River Whiskey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn @DevilsRWhiskey.

Ezra Brooks elevates flavor profile with the introduction of Ezra Brooks 99

New Ezra Brooks variant delivers fuller taste and smooth, mellow finish at an enhanced 99 proof 

ST. LOUIS (JAN. 6, 2021) – Luxco announces the latest addition to its award-winning Ezra Brooks family of products: Ezra Brooks 99, a pure, oak-barrel-aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey elevated to 99 proof. Charcoal filtered for a smooth, mellow finish, the new Ezra Brooks 99 features the same spicy, ryed-bourbon-mash-bill taste, but with an enhanced flavor profile delivered by the higher proof.

“With Ezra Brooks 99 our goal was to create a higher-proof bourbon without sacrificing the rich notes Ezra Brooks is known for,” said John Rempe, master distiller at Lux Row Distillers. “And we achieved that with 99. The result is a smooth, drinkable bourbon with hints of caramel, vanilla, chocolate and spice. We’re thrilled to introduce Ezra Brooks 99 to bourbon lovers everywhere.”

Ezra Brooks 99 features the distinctive packaging and natural cork closure for which Ezra Brooks is known, along with a prominent “99” proof callout on the label and deep “LUX ROW DISTILLERS” embossing on the bottle’s shoulder.

“When you see Ezra Brooks 99, you’ll see an elegant, upscale bottle that stands out on the shelf,” said Eric Winter, brand manager for Ezra Brooks. “We believe the refined style and honest flavor of Ezra Brooks is amplified in Ezra Brooks 99, giving consumers of the brand even more to connect to.”

Ezra Brooks 99 is competitively priced with other premium American bourbon whiskey brands within its category, and it will be available in a 750 ml bottle nationwide beginning in January 2021. For more information or to find a retailer, visit EzraBrooks.com.

About Luxco

A leading producer, supplier, importer, and bottler of beverage alcohol products, Luxco’s mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Founded in St. Louis in 1958, Luxco remains locally owned and operated by the Lux family. In April 2018, Luxco opened its first bourbon distillery – Lux Row Distillers – bringing the Lux family’s legacy to the heart of Bourbon Country in Bardstown, Kentucky. Lux Row Distillers is home to many of the company’s bourbon brands, such as Ezra Brooks, Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson, and Daviess County. Luxco’s innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit luxco.com.