Whisky industry defies economic turmoil with exponential growth-boosting favourability with investors  

Pandemic pushes investors towards cask Irish whiskey and Scotch   

• The Irish and Scottish whisk(e)y industry is predicted to grow at a high CAGR in the next five years in spite of the coronavirus economy, driving higher investor interest
• Irish whiskey exports have grown by 300% in the past decade, with the US market worth $1bn alone 
• A third of investors are looking to cask whiskey investment amongst other ‘alternative investments’ to protect their wealth during the pandemic
• 55% of investors would turn to cask whiskey to hedge against economic uncertainty and spread risk once informed with potential returns being the biggest driver  

Eighty-nine percent of investors are changing their approach to their portfolios by turning to alternative investments to spread risk, at a time when the UK economy plummet by a fifth. According to the 2020 Cask Whiskey Buyer Report, with premium cask’s whiskey becoming increasingly appealing.

New research by cask whiskey investment leader,Whiskey & Wealth Club also reveals that investors largely favoured longer established options such as art (31%), antiques (28%) and wine (24%) with interest in cask whiskey investment rising to 55% in the current environment.

Over two-thirds of investors cite the potential returns on cask whiskey investment as the main reason to invest. While 57% are willing to invest in the spirit to diversify their portfolios as the pandemic affects financial markets.

Commenting on the report findings, Whiskey & Wealth Club founder, Jay Bradley, said:

“The more ‘traditional’ alternatives, such as art and, antiques and watches are the most sought-after. Yet cask whisky, is becoming popular as an ever-appealing prospect for investors looking to negotiate this period of financial uncertainty and meet their changing needs.”

The appeal is especially with younger investors. Over half of those aged between 25-34 are more likely to invest in the spirit over their older counterparts, reflecting recent trends with whiskey’s growing popularity with younger drinkers.

Whiskey’s growing investment appeal 

Globally whiskey’s popularity has soared in recent years and is set to continue increasing the demand for aged spirit. Currently, the Scotch whisky secondary wholesale market is estimated at $40m according to the IWSR, the global benchmark for wine and spirit data. Last year alone, exports grew to a record £4.9bn.

Irish whiskey is also amid a resurgence following its fall from grace as the in the early twentieth century. Exports have grown by 300% in the past decade, with the US market worth $1bn alone. 

Cask whiskey investment is a developing market that has largely been unexplored, having previously been available to a select few. The market is now more accessible, with investors able to purchase casks of premium spirit from leading distillers via brokers. The investors receive full ownership of the casks they purchase, while distilleries receive an injection of capital.

Bradley concludes: “As the cask whiskey buying market matures, the key differentiator is the cachet of premium spirit. Investing in a whiskey from a premium distillery or brand — with a limited run— offers the potential for significant return on investment. When it comes to whiskey, quality and rarity will always count.”

Research methodology

Whiskey & Wealth Club commissioned research in summer 2020 from Censuswide of 505 individuals with capital of £100,000 or more available for investment –full methodology.

About Whiskey & Wealth Club

Whiskey & Wealth Club is a wholesale whiskey company that connects individual investors with authentic and premium Irish and Scottish distilleries. The distilleries make casks of new make spirit available to Whiskey & Wealth Club at a wholesale rate that are then released to private individuals at significantly discounted rates.

Whiskey & Wealth Club manages storage and insurance as standard, allowing the whiskey to mature in maintained, government bonded warehouses. Investors can then decide when is best for them to sell their mature whiskey or bottle to enjoy themselves.

Paul John Whisky unveils newest addition to its

 Christmas Series – Christmas Edition 2020.

            Paul John Whisky unveils its newest addition to the popular Christmas Series – Christmas Edition 2020, an exotic 3rd limited Christmas release from the sunny shores of Goa.

Created from an exclusive blend of single malts matured in ex-Bourbon, Oloroso and Virgin oak casks; Christmas Edition 2020 greets you with delicate aromas of orange peel and honeycomb enhanced with sweet oak. The rich, long lightly peated flavours of creamy dark chocolate feels like you are sipping on a dram of Christmas itself.

Bottled at 46% ABV, this new limited release Christmas Edition 2020 will be available in select markets across USA, UK, Europe and India from October 2020.

Paul John Whisky released its first Christmas Edition in 2018 to delight whisky enthusiasts during the holiday season. With a blend of unpeated and peated single malts and finished in Oloroso casks, the expression was one of the most preferred whiskies of the year.

Last year’s Christmas Edition 2019 nosed aromas of luscious baked apples along with pleasant flavours of fine raisins and dry plum. On the palate, notes of light mocha and a lighter smoke led to a long Pedro Ximinez finish of spicy French toast and delicious smoked nuts. 

About Paul John Indian Single Malts

The Paul John Single Malts were launched in the UK in 2012 and were soon acclaimed to be equal to or even better than single malts produced elsewhere. Approval from single malt enthusiasts and innumerable global awards further proved our excellence and encouraged us to take our single malts across the world.

Craft, skilfully chosen indigenous ingredients, and the warm environs of Goa create the magic that is Paul John whisky.

A conscious decision was taken to create high quality single malts at affordable prices allowing us to introduce many more to the flavourful taste of single malts.

The range of Paul John Single Malts include an entry level expression, 3 flagship expressions, 4 select casks, and the occasional limited, single cask and special editions.

Today, the Paul John Single Malt is present in over 38 countries.

The Pinnacle of Irish Whiskey, MIDLETON VERY RARE,

releases exceptional 2020 vintage

Final Midleton Very Rare vintage from Former Master Distiller Brian Nation is unveiled

Irish Distillers, maker of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has unveiled the eagerly awaited Midleton Very Rare 2020, a unique parting gift from former Master Distiller Brian Nation.

In his final days as Master Distiller, Brian continued the long-standing tradition of hand-selecting whiskeys reserved for this coveted annual expression from Midleton Distillery’s exceptional inventory for the last time. The result heralds the 37th edition in the world-renowned range.

Chosen from the most outstanding quality single pot still and single grain Irish whiskeys laid down over the past four decades in Midleton, Co Cork, Midleton Very Rare 2020 showcases an expression of whiskeys aged from 13 to 35 years in lightly charred ex-bourbon American oak barrels.

This year, Brian Nation selected a higher pot still inclusion when compared to previous vintages, while also increasing the use of refill barrels amongst his choice of casks. The result is a luxurious and balanced whiskey with rich pot still notes and elegant grain distillates that take centre stage thanks to the inclusion of refill casks – a fitting legacy from one of Irish whiskey’s great Master Distillers.

Kevin O’Gorman, newly appointed Master Distiller at Irish Distillers, and long-time collaborator of Brian Nation, comments:

“As a colleague and friend to Brian for many years, I could not be prouder to present his final Midleton Very Rare vintage and his legacy as Irish Distillers’ Master Distiller, to consumers across the globe.

“Selected each year with passion and precision, this expression offers an initial burst of tangy fruity sweetness on the palate, with pot still spices building over time to add a mild prickle of chili oil. Indeed, Brian’s love of a single pot still is reflected in this exceptional whiskey, while preserving the balance and beauty for which Midleton Very Rare is renowned.”

Bottled at 40% ABV, Midleton Very Rare 2020 is available online and in Ireland now, and will hit shelves in the UK, USA, Global Travel Retail, Australia, Germany and Canada in the coming months at the RRP of €180.

In a break from tradition and in response to consumer demand for the annual vintage to be made available earlier in the year in question, newly appointed Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman will reveal Midleton Very Rare 2021 in spring next year, honouring a rare changing of the guard at the iconic Midleton Distillery.

Only the third Master Distiller to influence one of the world’s most sought-after whiskey collections, the unveiling of Midleton Very Rare 2021 will mark the beginning of a new chapter in the world of Irish whiskey.

#MidletonVeryRare

IG: @MidletonVeryRare

Shop online: https://www.midletonveryrare.com/en-EN/midleton-very-rare-vintage-release

Tasting notes:

Aroma
Initial top notes of cane sugar and vanilla intertwined with pepper and nutmeg spices, complimented by sweet orchard fruits and white chocolate fudge all layered over polished antique wood notes, showcasing an intriguing balance between spirit and wood thanks to the complex interaction from the many years spent in the finest oak casks.

Taste
Initial burst of tangy fruit sweetness of orange peel and sweet pear creating a succulent texture while the pot still spices build overtime adding a mild prickle of chilli oil. The presence of the charred oak remains constant in the background adding balance to the fruits and spices.

Finish
Satisfyingly long finish with the fruits slowly fading, allowing the oak and spices to linger until the very end.

Notes: 

About Midleton Very Rare

Midleton Very Rare is the ultimate expression of craftsmanship from Irish Distillers’ Midleton Distillery. Released once a year, Irish Distillers’ Master Distiller hand-selects the finest and rarest whiskeys from the inventory of Midleton Distillery before blending them to create a true whiskey masterpiece, often referred to as the ‘pinnacle of Irish whiskey’.

Created in 1984 by Master Distiller Emeritus Barry Crockett, to date only two Master Distillers, Barry Crocket and Brian Nation, have had the privilege of preserving its legacy.

In June 2020 Kevin O’Gorman was appointed Master Distiller at Irish Distillers, becoming only the third guardian of Midleton Very Rare, with his first release due in 2021.  

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of spirits and wines, and producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys. Led by Jameson, our brands are driving the global renaissance of Irish whiskey.

Jameson is the world’s bestselling Irish whiskey, experiencing 30 years of consecutive growth and hitting sales of 8m cases in 2019. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 70 of those experiencing double or triple-digit growth.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. Since 2012, we have invested over €400 million to double our production and bottling capacity to meet global demand for our products.

We employ over 600 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin. 

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirits with consolidated sales of €9,182 million in FY19.

Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has developed through organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard, which owns 16 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive brand portfolios in the industry, including: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard’s brands are distributed across 160+ markets and by its own salesforce in 73 markets. The Group’s decentralised organisation empowers its 19,000 employees to be true on-the-ground ambassadors of its vision of “Créateurs de Convivialité.” As reaffirmed by the Group’s three-year strategic plan, “Transform and Accelerate,” deployed in 2018, Pernod Ricard’s strategy focuses on investing in long-term, profitable growth for all stakeholders. The Group remains true to its three founding values: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust, and a strong sense of ethics. As illustrated by the 2030 roadmap supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “We bring good times from a good place.” In recognition of Pernod Ricard’s strong commitment to sustainable development and responsible consumption, it has received a Gold rating from Ecovadis and is ranked No. 1 in the beverage sector in Vigeo Eiris. Pernod Ricard is also a United Nation’s Global Compact LEAD company.

Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.

The arrival of Callington Mill Distillery’s heart and soul

Callington Mill Distillery and Stillsmiths Tasmania are delighted to announce the delivery of the heart and soul of Callington Mill Distillery’s. The two custom made Copper Pot Stills will be the centre stage of the Tasmanian-made whisky distillery and will be enjoyed by visitors dining at the restaurant or exploring the distillery.

The momentous occasion will mark the new beginning of Callington Mill Distillery’s whisky journey and will represent the collaborative work carried out between Stillsmiths Tasmania and Callington Mill Distillery in the past years.

The meticulously crafted stills were fabricated by Stillsmiths Tasmania in Westbury, central north of Tasmania and will journey 131 Kilometres to Oatlands on Friday 16 October 2020.

Co-Founder of Stillsmiths, Tim Freeman says “Stillsmiths is honoured to have been chosen by Callington Mill to manufacture their state of the art, fully automated distillery solution. Not only have we hand-crafted the copper pot stills but we’re also utilising the latest automation technology from Siemens. Callington Mill will be the jewel in Stillsmiths’ manufacturing crown”.

About Callington Mill Distillery

Callington Mill Distillery has been quietly producing premium single malt whisky at its Glenorchy prototype distillery in Tasmania in anticipation of opening its world class distillery at Oatlands.
For further information visit www.callingtonmilldistillery.com.au

About Stillsmiths Tasmania

With a long history in stainless and mechanical fabrication, Kolmark, Stillsmiths’ parent company, is recognised as the leading stainless-steel fabricator in Tasmania taking on complex and difficult projects from the food and beverage to the industrial and mining industries. In 2017 Co-Founders Mark Kolodziej and Tim Freeman, identified the opportunity to establish a new market manufacturing high quality stills for the burgeoning Australian distillery industry in Tasmania. With clients across Australia and internationally, Stillsmiths’ manufacturing prowess is set to continue. For further information visit www.stillsmiths.com.au

BEAM SUNTORY ANNOUNCES GLOBAL LAUNCH OF FIRST-EVER WORLD BLENDED WHISKY SUNTORY WORLD WHISKY AO, EXCLUSIVE FOR GLOBAL TRAVELLERS

A premium whisky from five of the world’s most renowned whisky regions 

Chicago, IL (October 15, 2020) – Beam Suntory has announced the launch of the first-ever world blended whisky – Suntory World Whisky Ao – exclusive to global travel retail. The whisky, which will be available in 16 markets with a suggested retail price of 65€ / $71, is the first innovative whisky launch in global travel retail since the coronavirus pandemic began.

Blended using whisky from five of the most renowned distilleries in Japan, Scotland, Ireland, Canada and the US, Ao Whisky, meaning blue, is named after the oceans that connect these distilleries together.

The one-of-a-kind whisky is a tribute to the liquids’ long history, perfectly capturing the heathery flavor of Ardmore and Glen Garioch in Scotland, the complexity of Cooley in Ireland, the smoothness of Alberta in Canada, the vibrance of Jim Beam in the U.S. and the subtlety of Yamazaki and Hakushu in Japan. With notes of vanilla, tropical fruit and cinnamon, it is the distinctive climate, fermentation and distillation processes in each whisky-making region that give the whisky its unique taste.

Fifth generation Suntory chief blender, Shinji Fukuyo, carefully selected the liquids used based-on Suntory’s globally recognized Monozukuri craftsmanship – a relentless pursuit of perfection, attention to detail and quality. Building on Suntory’s history of craftsmanship, this innovative, premium blended whisky embodies the spirit of Suntory and is a tribute to the liquid’s long history. 

Shinji Fukuyo said: “Ao is an exceptional whisky which, through the art of Suntory blending, allows you to enjoy the unique characteristics of all five major whisky-making regions.” 

Ed Stening, Global Head of Travel Retail Marketing at Beam Suntory International, said: “This is a truly innovative whisky that blends five very different distilleries’ greatest assets and unique crafts. We couldn’t be more excited to share this exciting innovation with global travel retail.”

Suntory World Whisky Ao is a unique addition to Suntory’s growing spirits portfolio. The Suntory whisky range includes Yamazaki and Hakushu, the pioneer of Japanese Single Malts, and Japan’s most highly awarded blended whisky, Hibiki.

Ao is a reference to the beautiful color of the ocean (碧, Ao in Japanese), a tribute to the crossing of oceans and seas taking place as these whiskies of the world and Japanese craftsmanship meet. The bottle is five-sided in honor of the five major whisky-making regions. The calligraphic lettering was written by Japanese calligrapher Tansetsu Ogino with an intent to represent the whiskies’ global origins and Japanese craftsmanship.  

Suntory World Whisky Ao will be available only in Global Travel Retail in these 16 countries: United States, Australia, Canada, China, Dubai, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands, Singapore, Taiwan, Turkey, UK, India and South Korea. 

TASTING NOTES – SUNTORY WORLD WHISKY AO, 43% ABV

Color – amber

Nose – profound vanilla, pineapple-like fruitiness on top, a creamy sweetness and depth with a lingering woody aroma

Palate – smooth and sweet mouthfeel, gradually followed with smokiness and cinnamon-like spiciness

Finish – sweet and smoky, spicy and woody, a many-layered complexity 

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 Midori liqueur.

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 and www.drinksmart.com. 

ABOUT HOUSE OF SUNTORY

Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as the pioneer of Japanese whisky for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. The founding father of Japanese whisky Shinjiro Torii, built Japan’s first malt whisky distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Torii’s son, Keizo Saji, Suntory’s second master blender who continued to establish distilleries including the Hakushu distillery. As the generations of Suntory’s master blenders carry on, Suntory Whisky remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory Whisky has been named four-time Distiller of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014).

Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week Presents an “Old Fashioned Cocktail Hour” with Chef Richard Blais in Partnership with PUNCH

Marquee event highlights inaugural celebration to raise up to $100,000 for Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Mark your calendars for Oct. 21 as Elijah Craig Bourbon delivers a Whiskey Wednesday to lift spirits as part of the inaugural Old Fashioned Week. For one night only, Chef Richard Blais will host an “Old Fashioned Cocktail Hour” featuring cocktails and conversations with leading mixologists and Heaven Hill Distillery Ambassadors.

Chef Blais, winner of Bravo’s first Top Chef All-Stars and owner/operator of Trail Blais, a highly creative and innovative culinary consulting company, headlines the marquee event of Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week. This live event will be available on OldFashionedWeek.com, as well as streamed on Elijah Craig’s YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. Starting at 8 p.m. eastern time, Chef Blais will take you through a night of discovering the Greatness Within® the hospitality community as he shares recipes, tips and tricks, and Q & A sessions with special guests. Pick up an Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, and the necessary cocktail accoutrements listed here, to join Chef Blais in Old Fashioned cheers.

Starting Oct. 16, Elijah Craig will host a lineup of live activations designed to be both educational and entertaining to generate support and funds for Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation. Consumers and hospitality professionals can register and create their own schedule of events at OldFashionedWeek.com. The first 250 people registered will receive an Elijah Craig home bar kit, the first 500 will receive Elijah Craig socks, and all who register will receive coupons to celebrate the week accordingly. The schedule of events includes Old Fashioned Bar Trivia with Heaven Hill Distillery Ambassadors Bernie Lubbers and Jack Choate, ‘The Art of Crafting Ice’ with Portland-based bartender and author Jeffrey Morgenthaler, and ‘Elevating Your Home Bar’ with Devin Kennedy, bartender at Pouring Ribbons.

First announced Sept. 3, Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week celebrates a great cocktail for an even greater cause. Learn more about the initial launch and support of the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation here.

ABOUT ELIJAH CRAIG BOURBON: Elijah Craig Bourbon bears the name of the Reverend Elijah Craig, known as “The Father of Bourbon,” who established his distillery in 1789 on the banks of Elkhorn Creek in modern day Georgetown, Kentucky. He is credited with being the first distiller to age his wares in charred oak barrels. The clear, unaged corn liquor became transformed into a bold amber liquid with a distinctively smooth flavor that makes Bourbon what it is today. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, the family of whiskeys includes Elijah Craig Small Batch, Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey, Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Elijah Craig Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

First brought to market in 1986, Heaven Hill Distillery’s Master Distillers were selecting a small number of barrels of the finest Bourbon to make Elijah Craig Small Batch long before the term “small batch” even existed. It is this attention to detail and superb craftsmanship that give Elijah Craig an ideal balance of age, robust body, and rich flavor. Elijah Craig accolades have included Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and Excellent Highly Recommended honors at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. For more information, please visit www.elijahcraig.com.

Stable Growth for the Global Whisky Market

The global whisky market to reach 104.63 billion USD by 2025, according to a recent research report by Williams & Marshall Strategy.

In 2015, the global whisky market was equal to 68.27 billion USD, calculated  in retail prices. By 2025, the market is forecast to reach 104.63 billion USD. Thus, increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.96% per year for the period 2020-2025. That is a decrease, compared to the annual growth rate of 4.83%, registered for 2015-2019.

The average consumption per capita reached 14.60 USD in retail prices in 2015. For the next five years, it grew at a CAGR of 4.18%. By 2025, the per capita consumption is forecast to increase at a CAGR of 2.98%.

Among the leading trends in the whisky category is premiumization, and the growing popularity of whisky among consumers. As a result, the whisky industry is growing in a stable manner, resilient to negative conditions.

Although price remains the key purchase criterion, the global whiskey market has witnessed a very strong shift to premiumization. That is thanks to consumers’ immense openness to innovation and the increasing popularity of mixology. The desire for interesting premium products and drinks of a niche variety explains the rising trend among wealthier consumers. Premiumization can also be linked with the fact that consumers aim to cut down on their alcohol intake. Therefore, they can afford to purchase spirits of higher quality.

There has been a robust consolidation on the whiskey market during the last few years, which was partially driven by the large number of new brands emerging on the market. Companies like Beam Suntory, Brown-Forman, Diageo, and Pernod Ricard have been actively involved in most of the acquisition deals in the last few years. Thus, diversifying their portfolios’ with new specialty brands.

Just some of the examples include the acquisition of bourbon manufacturers Smooth Ambler and Rabbit Hole Whiskey by Pernod Ricard in 2017 and 2019. Also, the purchase of a minority stake in Westward Whiskey by Diageo through Distill Ventures in 2018, and Bacardi’s investment in The Teeling Whiskey Company in 2017.

The report includes information on the following companies:

Accolade Wines;

Alko;

Allagash Brewing Company;

Allied Blenders & Distillers;

Arkell’s Brewery;

Anchor Brewing Company;

Asahi Breweries;

Bass Brewery;

Bacardi Ltd;

Beam Suntory;

Brown Forman;

Diageo;

Angus Dundee Distillers Plc.;

Pernod Ricard;

Constellation Brands, Inc.

The market research report is prepared using Williams and Marshall Strategy’s methodology. It includes a blend of qualitative and quantitative data and insights from market experts, gathered by semi-structured interviews.

For more Information Contact: info@wm-strategy.com

CHRIS FLETCHER TAKING THE REINS AS JACK DANIEL’S MASTER DISTILLER

Seasoned Whiskey Maker Will Oversee Quality of Iconic Tennessee Whiskey From “Grain to Glass” 

LYNCHBURG, Tenn. (October 7, 2020) — The Jack Daniel Distillery announced today that seasoned whiskey maker Chris Fletcher will take over the reins as Master Distiller of the iconic Tennessee Whiskey brand.

Fletcher, 39, had previously served for six years as Assistant Master Distiller, and will be responsible for the overall quality of Jack Daniel’s from grain to glass, innovation and serve as a global ambassador.  In addition, he will oversee the distillery’s new “Distillers in Training” program which aims to recruit, teach, and mentor the next generation of whiskey makers.  

Born and raised in Lynchburg, and now carrying on a family tradition, Fletcher is the grandson of former Master Distiller Frank Bobo, who served in the role from 1966 until his retirement in 1989.

“For the past six years, Chris has been right there and involved in every major distillery innovation, product and enhanced production process while ensuring our Tennessee Whiskey is of the highest character and quality,” said Larry Combs, Jack Daniel Distillery SVP and General Manager.  “Chris has whiskey making in his blood, but he also has this incredible and unique combination of knowledge, expertise and creativity that will position us well into the future.  Folks like Chris don’t come along every day, and backed by our tremendous senior leadership team, I have no doubt that he will flourish in this new role.”

 “It’s an honor to be named Master Distiller here at Jack Daniel’s and join a line of folks who’ve made the best whiskey in the world,” said Chris Fletcher.  “Over the last 17 years, I’ve been able to learn and work alongside so many talented whiskey makers, and I am very grateful for the mentors I’ve had, including Jeff Arnett who taught me so much.  Our distillery and team here in Lynchburg are the best in the business, and I cannot wait to continue to work with them crafting the world’s favorite Tennessee Whiskey.” 

Fletcher’s work at Jack Daniel’s stretches back to 2001 when he worked as a part-time tour guide while attending college.  He graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry from Tennessee Technological University in 2003 and began work as a chemist with Brown-Forman in Research & Development for eight years.  Following several years working in the bourbon industry, Fletcher came back home to the Jack Daniel Distillery and was named Assistant Master Distiller.

Chris, his wife, Ashley, and three-month old son, Payne Thomas, live in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery, Lem Motlow, proprietor, is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand. 

Your friends at Jack Daniel’s remind you to drink responsibly.

JACK DANIEL’S and OLD NO. 7 are registered trademarks. ©2020 Jack Daniel’s. Tennessee Whiskey 40% Alcohol by Volume (80 Proof). Distilled & Bottled by Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee. JackDaniels.com

Lost Lantern Whiskey Introduces First Single Cask Collection

Four Single Casks from New Mexico, Iowa, New York, and Texas Join the Initial Lineup 

October 14, 2020—Lost Lantern, a new independent bottler of American whiskey, is excited to announce the addition of four hand-selected single casks to their initial release lineup.

These highly limited, one-of-a-kind single casks consist of unique and deeply expressive whiskies produced by some of the finest distilleries in the United States. “We wanted our first round of single casks to encourage whiskey lovers to discover distilleries that they might not necessarily have access to otherwise,” explained Adam Polonski, co-founder of Lost Lantern. “All of these distilleries are rising stars in the American whiskey scene and have built impressive fanbases, but they aren’t always easy to find.” Each is bottled at cask strength and is non-chill-filtered and natural color.

The following single casks—along with American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1, announced earlier this month—will be available for sale on October 15^th at LostLanternWhiskey.com and Seelbachs.com shortly thereafter:

• Cask #1, Santa Fe Spirits New Mexico Single Malt (211 btls): SRP, $100
• Cask #2, Cedar Ridge Iowa Straight Bourbon Whiskey (213 btls): SRP, $87
• Cask #3, New York Distilling Co. Straight Rye Finished in an Apple Brandy Cask (202 btls): SRP, $70
• Cask #4, Ironroot Republic Texas Straight Corn Whiskey (111 btls): SRP, $108

Single casks are an essential piece of the Lost Lantern model, inspired by the long tradition of independent bottlers in Scotland. “Many superb distilleries are making delicious whiskies that reflect the unique environment where they’re made. Our curated lineup shines a light on whiskies that people might not find on their own, helping whiskey lovers explore the growing landscape of American whiskey and giving deserving distilleries additional attention in the process,” said Nora Ganley-Roper, co-founder of Lost Lantern.

Each quarter, Lost Lantern plans to debut a new collection of single casks, and may announce one-off limited releases from time-to-time.

The first collection of Lost Lantern single casks was chosen specifically to accompany American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1 (SRP $120), created in collaboration with some of the biggest names in American single malt: Balcones (TX), Copperworks (WA), Santa Fe Spirits (NM), Triple Eight (MA), Westward (OR), and Virginia Distillery Co (VA). American Vatted Malt is a demonstration of how whiskies from across the country can come together in a new way. The single casks show how whiskey can reflect where it’s made, how it’s made, and who made it, and demonstrate that compelling whiskey comes from all across the United States.

Single Cask #1: Santa Fe Spirits New Mexico Single Malt

(211 bottles | 120.5 Proof): SRP, $100

Mesquite-smoked single malt whiskey is an emerging regional style from the Southwest, and founders Nora and Adam believe it will someday become an American analogue to peated Islay scotch. Santa Fe Spirits, located at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, is one of the pioneers of this style.  Its unique high-altitude maturation environment (7,000 feet above sea level) sees large seasonal swings in temperatures and produces truly special whiskies. This single cask balances a delicate, elegant structure with bold flavors of barbecue, smoke, and citrus.

Single Cask #2: Cedar Ridge Iowa Straight Bourbon Whiskey

(213 bottles | 120.5 Proof): SRP, $87

Lost Lantern’s first bourbon cask comes from the family-owned Cedar Ridge distillery in Swisher, Iowa. Iowa is the heart of the corn belt. So it’s only natural that the state now makes great whiskey that’s quite distinct from Kentucky bourbon—softer, creamier, but still fruity and spicy. Cask-strength Cedar Ridge rarely makes it outside of Iowa, so this selection, which is reminiscent of freshly baked apple pie, should be a rare treat for bourbon lovers.

Single Cask #3: New York Distilling Co. Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in an Apple Brandy Cask

(202 bottles | 119.2 Proof): SRP, $70

Although most rye whiskey now comes from Kentucky, initially it was typically more common in cooler climates. New York Distilling Co., based in the heart of Brooklyn, is reviving this tradition in an urban environment. The apple brandy finish gives this cask an extra New York twist, resulting in a whiskey that tastes like a Viennese apple strudel, loaded with baking spice and harvest fruit flavors.

Single Cask #4: Ironroot Republic Texas Straight Corn Whiskey

(111 bottles | 129.2 Proof): SRP, $108

Made from 100% Texas corn and aged in a 53-gallon European oak ex-Bourbon cask for four years and two months in the Texas heat, this cask will change some minds on what corn whiskey can be. It is spicy and dense like a bourbon, but with a unique floral quality that shines because of the used cooperage. At the same time, it has the big, rich, round mouthfeel of the best Texas whiskey.

ABOUT LOST LANTERN

Founded by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is a new independent bottler of American whiskey. Inspired by the long tradition of independent bottlers in Scotland, the company seeks out the most unique and exciting whiskies being made across the country and releases them as single casks and blends, always with a deep commitment to transparency. Currently, the Lost Lantern portfolio consists of American Vatted Malt Edition No. 1, a blend of American single malt whiskey made in collaboration with six distilleries from across the U.S.—and four single cask whiskies.  Lost Lantern Whiskey is available for purchase at LostLanternWhiskey.com and at Seelbachs.com.

Engage with Lost Lantern Whiskey on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lostlanternwhiskey and Twitter at https://twitter.com/LostLanternDram.

Whisky Hammer auctions oldest whisky ever bottled by The Macallan in a world first

Scottish auction site offers rare bottle of 78 year old Macallan from the newly launched “Red Collection”

A rare bottle of the world’s oldest whisky ever released by The Macallan – also believed to be the oldest whisky ever launched by a distillery – from the distillery’s “Red Collection”, is being auctioned by online whisky auction platform, Whisky Hammer. Whisky Hammer is the first dedicated online auction house in the world to offer a bottle of the 78-year old whisky, giving its members the unique opportunity to bid on this super rare single malt Scotch whisky.

Whisky Hammer, a family-owned business in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, has launched the online auction (https://www.whiskyhammer.com/auction/current) that will run until 7pm (BST) on Sunday 25 October with a starting price of £10,000 for The Macallan 78-year old. The auction features over 3,000 lots, from everyday drams to investment-grade iconic bottles, and represents Whisky Hammer’s largest online auction to-date.  New members can join to participate in the auction by following Whisky Hammer’s quick and straightforward registration process at whiskyhammer.com.

Given its age, exclusivity and the level of global demand for The Macallan, the new release is expected to prove popular with whisky lovers and investors around the world.

The Macallan Red Collection launched this week comprises 40, 50, 60, 71, 74 and 78-year olds. The producer describes the new collection as “an exquisite range of distinguished and rare single malt Scotch whiskies, shaped by the actions of our founder Alexander Reid and key characters in our history, who have laid the foundations for our single malt today”. It adds: “This collection celebrates the rich range of reds present naturally in every step of our process”.

The 78-year old is described as reflecting “deep respect for time, tradition and craftsmanship”. It is being presented by The Macallan lead whisky maker Sarah Burgess and was laid down decades ago in The Macallan’s “hand-picked oak casks”. Tasting notes describe its colour as “Sunset on the Spey”.

Its oak presentation box is crafted by hand in the UK, using the same sustainable European oak used to make The Macallan casks. The box is upholstered with sustainably sourced, soft Scottish leather from Bridge of Weir Leather.

Whisky Hammer hosts auctions once a month, dedicated to whisky and other fine spirits, allowing buyers and sellers from every corner of the globe to participate at www.whiskyhammer.com. It has auctioned several rare and collectible whiskies – both bottles and casks – since its launch in 2016.  The business has recently re-located to a new, purpose built, facility in Aberdeenshire which is also home to a sister business, Still Spirit – a whisky shop and exquisite tasting room.

Daniel Milne, Managing Director of Whisky Hammer, said: “We’re really excited to be able to offer something as rare as this 78 year old expression from The Macallan Red Collection for auction and we expect a very high level of interest in this lot. The Macallan is one of the most well-known and loved Scotch whisky brands and is regarded globally as the epitome of quality and taste – add to this the thrill of the oldest single malt ever released by Macallan, the end result is a true icon in whisky history.

“As a Scottish family-run business we have seen rapid growth since our inaugural auction in 2016 – today we are one of the largest online dedicated whisky auction platforms globally.  We’re delighted to have been able to host such an exclusive whisky which builds on our growing reputation as a place for whisky lovers and investors to buy and sell these iconic whiskies.”

Notes

The Macallan Red Collection 78-year old auction https://www.whiskyhammer.com/auction/current

Tasting notes for The Macallan 78-year old 

Colour: Sunset on the Spey

Nose: A fresh fruit medley of apple, peach and grape moving into fresh lime and verbena. Antique oak and soft leather move quickly into a luxurious dark chocolate and dried fruit sensation. The dried fruits are a balance of dates and raisins. Finally, a rich inviting vanilla cake.

Palate: Warming oak spice of nutmeg and ginger open into the rich dried fruits of raisin, prune, date and a hint of almond nuttiness. The oak rich whisky is warming yet dry with powerful treacle toffee and a baked apple sweetness.

Finish: A long thought provoking finish, all of the flavours from the nose and the taste make an appearance in this finish….Remarkable.

ABV: 42.2 per cent

Whisky Maker: Sarah Burgess