NEW ARDBEG 19 YEARS OLD JOINS RARE BATCH SERIES

< Islay Distillery releases Batch Two of Ardbeg Traigh Bhan >

This month, smoky malt whisky lovers will get the chance to add another exclusive and rare aged Ardbeg to their drinks cabinet, with the launch of the second batch of Ardbeg 19 Years Old Traigh Bhan.

This exquisite whisky is inspired by the beautiful beaches of Traigh Bhan (pronounced tri-van) on Islay. Known locally as the Singing Sands, the tides ebb and flow and the beach hums beneath your feet, but in the seemingly tame crystal waters danger lurks, as jagged volcanic rocks pierce the surf along the shore. This place, like the whisky itself, is where calm meets storm.

Matured in American oak and Oloroso Sherry casks, Batch Two is subtly different to the previous release of Traigh Bhan. This time round, the 19 Year Old takes on an altogether more silky-smooth character, thanks to a higher proportion of 1st-fill Bourbon casks, alongside refills and Sherry casks.

This sublime dram is the epitome of an aged Ardbeg. On the nose, faint ripples of sweet wood smoke and tart crème fraîche flow gently into bold notes of savoury fennel, celeriac and roasted tea leaves. On the palate, an intensely salty mouthfeel shifts like the tides into soothing medicinal notes, followed by salted peanut brittle, smoked pineapple and lime juice. Waves of aniseed lap over the palate, before rich fudge, birch tar and peat smoke crash down wildly.

The taste profile isn’t the only thing that changes year on year. Each Traigh Bhan whisky carries its own unique batch code, batch symbol and signature from one of the Distillery’s famous faces – this year it’s Jackie Thomson, the Distillery Visitor Centre Manager.

Jackie, said: “I’m really delighted to have my name on this bottling, the second exquisite batch of 19 Years Old. It’s an aromatic, balanced whisky and one which I really love. Not only is the dram incredibly rare and mellow, but the small quirks and originalities on the bottle itself make it highly collectible – something we know our Ardbeg fans love.”

Ardbeg’s Whisky Creator, Dr Bill Lumsden, said: “To me, this whisky is the epitome of an aged Ardbeg. It somehow manages to balance the complex with the classic. It’s a truly unique bottling and we hope Ardbeggians everywhere look forward to comparing notes with the previous batch. I know I did!”

Lovers of smoky single malts can visit ardbeg.com to find out more about the specific tasting notes of this batch of Ardbeg Traigh Bhan.

The second batch of Ardbeg 19 Years Old Traigh Bhan will be available from Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists and Clos19 from September, RRP: £199.

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NOTES: 

Tasting Notes:

Matured in American oak and Oloroso sherry casks, this sublime 19 Year Old whisky is the epitome of an aged Ardbeg.

ABV: 46.2%
Batch No: TB/02-18.09.00/20.JT
Colour: Pale Gold

Aroma:

On the nose, faint ripples of sweet wood smoke and tart crème fraîche flow gently into bold notes of savoury fennel, celeriac and roasted tea leaves. Plunge further and discover alluring aromas of charcoal and lightly burnt toast. A splash of water releases a gust of fresh seaspray, followed by eucalyptus oil and pine. Finally, this irresistible nose ends with an unmistakable top note of saddle soap and leather.

Taste:

An intensely salty mouthfeel shifts like the tides into soothing medicinal notes, followed by salted peanut brittle, smoked pineapple and lime juice. Waves of aniseed lap over the palate, before rich fudge, birch tar and peat smoke crash down wildly.

This is a dram that coaxes you in, and all assumptions are best left behind. Simply let this alluring spirit surprise and delight.

Finish:

Savoury and smoky notes collide in a sharp, intense, yet satisfyingly long finish.

Ardbeg:

Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky.  Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts.  Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’.  During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction.  Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following.

Ardbeg Committee:

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee.  The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”.  Today there are more than 100,000 members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 130 countries.  Committee members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings.  Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events.  The Committee, chaired by Mickey Heads, is free to join at ardbeg.com.

Awards:

Ardbeg is the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whisky.  Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions.  Ardbeg was voted ‘Scotch Whisky of the Year’ twice by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible (2008, 2009) and has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 2013).  At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’.  The following year, Ardbeg’s expressions took the top three spots in Whisky Advocate magazine’s review of the best single malt Scotch whiskies under US$100.  Meanwhile, both Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Ardbeg Uigeadail have been awarded gold medals at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. In 2019, Dr Bill Lumsden was awarded Master Distiller of the Year for the third time in four years. Ardbeg Corryvreckan won the Best Single Malt Scotch at the International Whisky Competition 2020, while Ardbeg Wee Beastie won Best Single Malt Scotch Under 10 Year Old, and the Ardbeg Distillery itself won the Distillery of the Year 2019 and 2020.

The Glenmorangie Company:

The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.  Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt.  

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

Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Release of 2020 Parker’s Heritage Collection Limited Edition Bottling

14^th edition of the annual ultra-premium release is a 10 Year Old Heavy Char Bourbon, continues the distillery’s commitment to support ALS research and patient care

Parker’s Heritage Collection is a hallmark lineup of Heaven Hill Distillery’s exploration in premium innovation. The 14^th edition continues the interaction of barrel char across varying mashbills, this time with Heaven Hill’s traditional Bourbon mashbill of 78% corn, 12% malted barley and 10% rye. Aged in heavy char (Level 5) barrels, as opposed to the customary Level 3 for Heaven Hill, the resulting flavors carry intensified notes of the traditional Bourbon. Consisting of 102 barrels aged on the sixth floor of rickhouse Y for 10 years, the heavy char brings forth a caramel and maple sweetness, as well as slight smokiness developed after 40 Kentucky seasons in the barrel.BARDSTOWN, KY – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the 2020 limited edition release of Parker’s Heritage Collection 10 Year Old Heavy Char Bourbon. The 14^th edition will ship nationally beginning in September at an SRP of $120.00.

The second heavy char edition of the series advances the study of how a more intense char allows the liquid to penetrate deeper into each barrel stave and the effects on the resulting flavor. Bottled at 120 proof (60% abv) and non-chill filtered to preserve all the flavor compounds, this Bourbon showcases the broad range of Heaven Hill Distillery’s 1.8 million barrels of aging inventory.

“The Parker’s Heritage Collection is a testament to the attention to detail crafted throughout Heaven Hill’s distilling legacy,” said Susan Wahl, Vice Present, American Whiskies at Heaven Hill. “It is an honor to continue Parker’s interest in innovation through this series and showcase the variety of Heaven Hill Distillery’s portfolio. It is in tribute to Parker and his legacy that we continue to support ALS research and patient care with this series.”

The late Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam, for whom the acclaimed series is named, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2010. The past seven editions from 2013-2019, including the “Promise of Hope” Bourbon, the “Original Batch” Straight Wheat Whiskey, the Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey, the 24-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, the 11-Year-Old Single Barrel, Orange Curaçao-finished Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Heavy Char Rye Whiskey, respectively, have raised more than one million dollars toward ALS research and patient care through contributions made by Heaven Hill for each bottle purchased. With the 2020 Heavy Char Bourbon edition, Heaven Hill will again contribute a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold to the ALS Association.

Packaged in the same upscale 750ml bottle as the previous thirteen editions, but with a navy blue label, the newest Parker’s Heritage Collection is available in a three-bottle case and will be available at retail starting in October. With previous releases having won multiple awards from Whisky Advocate magazine, Whisky Magazine and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the series stands as some of the most critically lauded American Whiskeys in recent memory. Past bottlings have won awards ranging from “Best North American Whiskey” to “American Whiskey of the Year” to “Best of Show, Brown Spirits.”

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.8 million barrels aging in 60 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky and Parker’s Heritage Collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2017 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year, 2016 Whisky Advocate American Whiskey of the Year and 2016 Rye Whiskey of the Year from “Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.” For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

BENRIACH’S CREATIVE PAST INSPIRES FUTURE WITH DISTINCTIVE NEW PORTFOLIO OF SINGLE MALTS 

Benriach Distillery, located in north Speyside, has revealed a distinctive flavour-forward portfolio of Single Malts and a new look inspired by the distillery’s creative heritage.

Known for its long-standing tradition of distilling classic, peated and triple distilled whisky and a vast eclectic cask inventory sourced from around the world, the portfolio has been artistically crafted by Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie and her team. Displaying the diversity and versatility of Benriach’s orchard fruit-laden style, this new range spans the full spectrum of whisky flavour.

The new packaging takes inspiration from the first Benriach Single Malt released over two decades ago, with the portfolio’s colour palette inspired by Speyside’s natural environment in which the distillery sits.

Benriach Master Blender, Dr Rachel Barrie said: “The new range perfectly marries tradition and innovation that is central to Benriach’s story. Inspired by the 1994 bottling of the Original Ten, with its fruit-laden complexity and smooth, rounded taste, the new range re-imagines the 1898 origins of Benriach, brought to life in the 21st century through fusing distilling styles with extraordinary casks.

“In the new Original Ten, a more richly flavoured, rounded malt character might be discerned, whilst The Twelve balances richly sherried malt with added layers of fruit complexity, reaching a pinnacle at twelve years old. The new Smoky Ten and Smoky Twelve explore the sweet smokiness of Benriach, enriched through innovative combinations of rum, virgin oak and marsala casks interwoven with more traditional bourbon and sherry.

“The new Benriach range is for those open to new possibilities, building on a wealth of experience and tradition. I invite the drinker to join me on this creative journey, as we explore the rich rewards of Single Malt whisky.”

In addition to Benriach The Original Ten, the Core Range will feature a new recipe for Benriach’s richly sherried twelve year old whisky, including port and bourbon casks  interwoven for seamless smooth complexity.

The extraordinarily sweet smoky whisky distilled in the distillery’s smoke season features in the new Smoky Ten and Smoky Twelve Year Old expressions. Both have their own flavour palette, created by maturing in bespoke oak casks, interwoven with Benriach’s hallmark sweet smoke.

A premium selection of Twenty One, Twenty Five and Thirty Year Old Single Malts brings an extremely rare opportunity to discover the exquisite integration of flavour resulting from decades of maturation. Matured in a diverse selection of highly distinctive oak casks, and interwoven with complex layers of refined and mellow smoke, each aged expression has been meticulously composed for aromatic finesse, sumptuous richness, and deep mellow maturity.

As one of just two distilleries in Speyside still to practice traditional floor malting on site, a new small batch and limited edition ‘Malting Season’ expression will celebrate this time-honoured practice. Benriach’s seasonal peated spirit production will also be captured in a new ‘Smoke Season’ bottling, which explores the full intensity of Benriach’s fruit-forward smoky  spirit, amplified through bespoke cask selection.

Benriach will also continue its legacy of capturing unique moments in time through its Cask Edition Programme, and will continue to offer a travel retail collection featuring the Triple Distilled aged 10 years, as well as Quarter Cask and Smoky Quarter Cask expressions.

Over 120 years since it was established, Benriach is also expected to unveil its first official visitor centre to the public later this year, allowing visitors from around the world to explore this Speyside whisky gem.

The new Benriach range will become available in global markets gradually from September 2020.

Notes 

Timings of product availability will vary by country as they transition to the new range. Benriach Smoke Season will launch later this year, and Malting Season will become available in spring 2021.

For more details on the new portfolio please visit www.benriach.com

About Benriach Distillery

A Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky as intriguing and extraordinary as Benriach could not have come to be without a unique whisky making heritage, dating from 1898, when founder John Duff built his distillery. Ruggedly beautiful, Benriach stands on the site of the old Riach farm in north Speyside, drawing water from a mineral-rich aquifer, deep beneath the distillery.

Thanks to a long-standing tradition of distilling three styles of whisky; classic unpeated, Highland peated and triple distilled, together with an eclectic selection of casks from around the world, our whisky makers are able to explore the full flavour possibilities of Single Malt, creating some of the richest, most multi-layered whiskies in Speyside.

This tradition continues today, under the guidance of Master Blender, Rachel Barrie. Benriach is the story of a hidden Speyside gem, quietly revealing its treasures to be discovered and savoured.

Facebook – @Benriach

Instagram – @Benriach

Twitter – @TheBenriach

Bimber releases UK exclusive oloroso sherry cask finish  

London’s Bimber Distillery today announced the release of Batch 002 of its Oloroso Cask Small Batch single malt, created exclusively for the UK.

Following a swift sell-out of the European market edition of the release earlier in 2020, the second bottling in the series of batched releases has now been unveiled for the UK market.

The single malt has been crafted from a vatting of carefully selected first fill ex-bourbon casks that have been finished in Spanish oloroso sherry casks. 920 bottles have been produced at an ABV of 51.7% with natural colour, no chill-filtration and an RRP of £75.

The expression will be made available to the Distillery’s ‘Bimber Klub’ members from the 9^th September, with the remaining allocation dedicated to UK spirits retailers.

The Small Batch release was crafted to Bimber’s exacting standards. The spirit was produced from the distillery’s single farm barley and malted on a dedicated floor at Warminster Maltings, before being fermented for seven days in bespoke on-site constructed American oak washbacks. Distillation took place in Bimber’s customised stills which possess an increased copper surface area, resulting in a light, fruit-forward, layered new make spirit.

Speaking of the release of the UK Exclusive Oloroso Cask, Bimber Distillery spokesperson Matt McKay said “Despite being a London-based distillery we’re thrilled by the growing worldwide interest in Bimber. As a small distillery focussed on craft, not volumes, it has been challenging for us meet the surging demand for our single malts. Whilst we continue to broaden our offerings overseas, it is still a great pleasure to unveil our next Small Batch release for our home market in the UK.”

“Our Oloroso Cask expression delivers Bimber’s distinctive fruit-focussed character, but adds additional layers of rich intensity, particularly on the palate – which will appeal to all lovers of sherried single malt whisky.”

Notes 

Bimber Oloroso Cask Small Batch 002  

Matured in first fill ex-bourbon barrels, then finished in casks which previously held Spanish oloroso sherry

Nose: Plump raisins and dried berries sit with vanilla cream, malt loaf and gingerbread men whilst dusty cinnamon joins a French crepe with a squeeze of lemon juice

Taste: Silky in texture with crushed red berries and quince jelly enriched by chocolate sauce and cracked walnuts. Banana bread and cinnamon swirls join golden syrup while roasted pineapples are tempered by fresh sweet sherry

Finish: Lingering ginger and anise spicing alongside fading berry sweetness

Limited to 920 bottles

70cl

51.7% ABV

RRP £75

Distribution: Available from the 9^th September to Bimber Klub members and via UK retailers thereafter.

About Bimber

Bimber Distillery produces world-class single malt whisky, handcrafted with passion in West London. As a leading distiller of English whisky, we combine generations of rich distilling heritage, with the finest quality ingredients to create the ultimate craft whisky experience.

Whisky Makers Whyte & Mackay Ltd toast success at ISC awards

Scotch Whisky Producers of the Year, Whyte & Mackay Ltd are raising a glass to toast the success of its whisky portfolio today after winning a grand total of 53 Double Gold and Gold awards at this year’s International Spirits Challenge (ISC).

Whyte & Mackay’s collection of Single Malt Whiskies – The Dalmore, Fettercairn, Tamnavulin and Jura received the highest recognition, scooping up six Double Gold medals, followed by 47 Gold medals spanning whiskies from across the portfolio.

The rejuvenated Fettercairn won a total of five awards including Double Gold for its 46 Year Old single malt – a new expression release from the very rare exquisite stocks at Fettercairn Distillery. The win follows a successful year for the Single Malt, with two new permanent expressions added to its core range, each showcasing Fettercairn’s special character distinctive tropical flavour profile.

The International Spirits Challenge is in its 25^th year, and is the leading event in promoting outstanding quality spirits across the world. Awards are given to spirits based on a thorough blind tasting from a panel of specialist judges.

Mr Richard Paterson, Master Distiller and Master Blender, Whyte & Mackay said:

“As whisky makers we dedicate our time to nurturing fantastic whiskies that capture the character of each distillery. We commit ourselves and our passion to produce exceptional whiskies that we hope will be perfect the moment they are enjoyed. To be recognised by the ISC is a wonderful moment that we truly appreciate. We are raising a glass today to everyone at Whyte & Mackay that played a part in this success”

Currently celebrating its 175^th anniversary, Whyte & Mackay is one of Scotland’s leading whisky makers, with single malt brands including The Dalmore, Jura, Fettercairn, Tamnavulin and blends including Whyte & Mackay, Shackleton and The Woodsman.

DOUBLE GOLD

Dalmore 35 Year Old Highland Single Malt, Dalmore Vintage “Quartet” Highland Single Malt,Dalmore 40 Year Old Highland Single Malt,Fettercairn 46 Year Old Single Highland Malt
Tamnavulin Single Speyside Malt Vintage 1970 and Jura Single Highland Malt Vintage 1993.

GOLD

Glaswegian, John Barr Blended Scotch Whisky, Whyte and Mackay Triple Matured Blended Scotch Whisky, Woodsman Blended Scotch Whisky, Quartermaster, Whyte and Mackay 50 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, King Of Trees, Shackleton Blended Malt, Tamnavulin French Cabernet Sauvignon Finish Single Speyside Malt Whisky, Jura “Red Wine” Single Malt, Tamnavulin Tempranillo Finish Single Speyside Malt Whisky, Tamnavulin Sherry Finish Single Speyside Malt Whisky, Dalmore Vintage “Trio” Single Highland Malt, Tamnavulin Spanish Grenache Finish Single Speyside Malt Whisky, Jura Seven Wood Single Highland Malt, Dalmore Cigar Malt Single Highland Malt, Dalmore Vintage “Quintet” Single Highland Malt, Tamnavulin Double Cask Single Speyside Malt Whisky, Fettercairn “Small Batch” Single Highland Malt
Dalmore Port Reserve Single Highland Malt, Jura “French Oak” Single Malt, Dalmore King Alexander III Single Highland Malt, Dalmore Quintessence Single Highland Malt, JURA 12 Year Old, Jura “Two – One – Two” Limited Edition Single Malt, Jura 18 Year Old Single Highland Malt, Tamnavulin Single Speyside Malt Vintage 2000, Fettercairn 16 Year Old Single Highland Malt, “The Paps” 19 Year Old Jura Single Highland Malt, 28 Y O Fettercairn Single Highland Malt, Tamnavulin Single Speyside Malt Vintage 1979, Tamnavulin Single Speyside Malt Vintage 1973, Jura Single Highland Malt Vintage 1988, Fettercairn 40 Year Old Single Highland Malt, Dalmore 25 Year Old Single Highland Malt, Jura Single Highland Malt Vintage 1975, Jura “Time” 21 Year Old Single Malt, Jura “Tide” 21 Year Old Single Malt and Dalmore 45 Year Old Single Highland Malt

About Whyte & Mackay Group Ltd.

The Whyte & Mackay collection of Single Malt Whiskies includes Jura, Tamnavilin, Fettercairn and The Dalmore – the exceptional Single Malt Whisky that celebrates its 180^th anniversary in 2019/20.

Scotch Whisky Producers of the Year Whyte & Mackay was founded in Glasgow in 1844, and today celebrates its 175th anniversary with a multi-award-winning portfolio of brands including its namesake Whyte & Mackay Blended Whisky.

The global spirits business is headquartered in the heart of Glasgow, and employs over 500 people around the globe, across five international offices, five distilleries and a state-of-the-art bottling plant in Scotland.

Today, with the support of its owners Emperador Inc., Whyte & Mackay is building a progressive, passionate and ambitious company for the future. Emperador Inc. is a subsidiary of Alliance Global Group Inc. (an international conglomerate listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange).

Jura Whisky proudly unveils new sherry-finished expression to Cask Editions Series – Jura Winter Edition 

As the festive season fast approaches, Jura Single Malt Scotch whisky is proud to present the new Winter Edition from the tiny island community distillery.

The new expression follows Jura Red Wine Cask, the first in the series released earlier this year. Each whisky in this new series will celebrate the role of different cask finishes throughout the maturation process and the impact they have on creating the distinctive flavour of Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The Cask Editions series will highlight the connection between the land and the spirit bringing distinct regional and seasonal flavours to the island malt.

Gregg Glass, Whisky Maker at Whyte & Mackay, commented: “I’m really passionate about exploring the flavour we can unlock within Jura. In our new Winter Edition we’ve created the perfect festive season toaster. In this expression, we have crafted a harmonious marriage of sweet spices and freshly baked apple pie, which result in an indulgent whisky while staying true to the heart of our distillery character with its mapled and citrussy characteristics.”

“The Isle of Jura is a unique place to develop and experiment with whisky and Jura Whisky is at the heart of an unbreakable bond between our island, our people and our distillery.  This release captures that island spirit and is ideal for keeping warm with friends and family and toasting during the winter months.”

Jura’s Winter Edition is a rich and warm full-bodied single malt, weaving in winter warming notes of sweetness from sticky maple syrup, spicy mulled wine and freshly brewed coffee, the finish is left with a comforting taste of whipped vanilla and cinnamon spice.

Jura Winter Cask is offered at 40% ABV, after being matured first for a period in American White Oak Ex Bourbon barrels and finished in hand-selected aged Spanish Sherry Casks.

Jura Winter Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky 1L is exclusively available in the UK at Tesco at an RSP £44.00

Notes:

About Jura:

Jura is a remote Scottish island nestled off the West Coast of Scotland. With only one road, one pub, one whisky distillery and 212(ish) people, Jura is as beautiful as it is remote.

The distillery was established in 1810 and reborn in 1963 to revive the community.

Inspired by our history and our island home, we create single malt with a true passion for the craft of whisky making.

Product information:

Winter Edition

ABV: 40%

Available in 1L & 70cl formats market dependent

Tasting Notes:

Colour: Deep mahogany gold

Nose: Soft and elegant with inviting aromas of citrus fruits, creamy caramel latte and sweet sultanas, followed by a hint of banana.

Palate: This unique Island malt reveals its warming nature, thanks to the hand selected sherry casks which deliver flavours of coffee, maple syrup and spicy mulled wine, finishing with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon spice.

About Whyte & Mackay                                

Whyte & Mackay was founded in Glasgow in 1844, and today celebrates its 175th anniversary with a multi-award-winning portfolio of brands which includes The Dalmore, Jura, Tamnavulin and Fettercairn whiskies alongside its namesake Whyte & Mackay Blended Whisky.

The whisky maker are proud partners of Flor de Caña, Camus and RumChata distributing their distinctive brands in the UK, while in recent years a focus on pioneering innovation has seen a number of brand extensions and new to world brands.

The global spirits business is headquartered in the heart of Glasgow, and employs over 500 people around the globe, across five international offices, five distilleries and a state-of-the-art bottling plant in Scotland.

Today, with the support of its owners Emperador Inc,. Whyte & Mackay is building a progressive, passionate and ambitious company for the future. Emperador is a subsidiary of Alliance Global Group, Inc (an international conglomerate listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange).

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Heaven Hill Distillery Announces Fall 2020 Edition of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Series

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Distillery announced today the release of the fall 2020 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at 14 years old. Comprised of barrels produced in fall of 2005, and bottled in fall of 2020, the sixth national release ushers in the latest hallmark series to the bottled-in-bond legacy.

Bottled in an ornate decanter, the fall edition denotes a black label, consistent across all fall releases. As was the case for the past editions, this edition’s tax strip, which has always been a signature of transparency on bottled-in-bond products, will disclose when the liquid was produced and bottled. The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond fall edition will be available in the 750ml size on an allocated basis. It meets the strict requirements of a bottled-in-bond: the product of a single distillery from a single distilling season, aged a minimum of four years, and bottled at 100 proof or 50% alcohol by volume. The edition is available at a suggested retail price of $140.

A previous 14-year-old edition was released as a visitors center and Kentucky allocated product, denoted with a red label. The fall 2020 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the first 14-year-old of the nationally released series and features Bourbon pulled from different rickhouses, at different floors, and on different production dates than the red label release. As a leader of the Bottled-in-Bond category, Heaven Hill is proud to offer a premium, allocated product within this special class that showcases the authenticity and quality of the American Whiskey portfolio. Acquired in 1999 by Heaven Hill, the legendary Old Fitzgerald line is well-known for its distilling pedigree and intriguing story behind its namesake, John E. Fitzgerald.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.7 million barrels aging in 60 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky and Parker’s Heritage Collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition Distillery of the Year, Best in Show Whisky, and previously held the titles of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Word Spirits Competition Best Bourbon, 2017 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year, 2016 Whisky Advocate American Whiskey of the Year and 2016 Rye Whiskey of the Year from “Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.” For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLYROOD:

SMWS KICK OFF VIRTUAL FESTIVAL BY OFFERING CASK OF WHISKY TO ONE LUCKY MEMBER 

The world’s most colourful whisky club is partnering with Holyrood Distillery to offer a hogshead cask to one lucky member 

To celebrate The Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s (SMWS) annual Gathering, it is offering one lucky member the chance to win a whole cask of whisky from Holyrood Distillery.

This is the first time SMWS has offered members the chance to win an entire cask of whisky from a partner distillery. The coveted prize is worth approximately £10K and includes all associated costs including production of spirit, maturation for up to 10 years, bottling and duty, surely the ultimate prize for any whisky-lover.

A CASK IN DEMAND

Holyrood Distillery, Edinburgh’s first city centre single malt whisky distillery for nearly a century, offers the widest breadth of flavour of any distillery in the country.

As part of their Custom Cask Programme, they allow a unique fully customisable option, where people can select flavour options to tailor their cask of whisky to their flavour preference.

The two Edinburgh-based leading whisky organisations have paired up for this special project, with the lucky SMWS member being able to select their own bespoke cask of whisky from Holyrood Distillery.

The competition will go live on Monday 7^th September, all SMWS members have to do is enter here: https://unfiltered.smws.com/win-a-cask

WORLDWIDE COMMUNITY OF WHISKY LOVERS

This year’s Gathering is taking place throughout September. Building on the success of its inaugural year last year, The Gathering 2020 will focus on the SMWS global community of over 27,000 members, uniting them in exceptional single cask whiskies.

A series of tastings (both virtual and in-person), whisky webinars, global ambassador at-home tastings, virtual pub sessions with global guests and a Twitter Tasting will take place throughout the month.

In a year where many whisky events and festivals have been forced to move online, SMWS are encouraging members to host their own Gathering events at home, with home tasting kits available to download. Tickets can be purchased for the full calendar of events here: www.smws.com/events

There will be a Virtual Tasting streamed live from The Vaults on 6^th September. All members need to take part is a limited-edition Discovery Pack, including five exclusive Gathering bottlings, which can be purchased here: https://www.smws.com/the-gathering-discovery-pack-2020

As well as these virtual events, there will also be events taking place at the Society’s spiritual home in The Courtyard at The Vaults on 4^th and 5^th September, bringing members together while adhering to all necessary social distancing guidelines.

The SMWS is now a truly global membership organisation, with members and partner bars across the world. Each SMWS branch around the world will have its own market-exclusive Gathering bottle.

The September SMWS bottling outturn will see The Gathering special releases available from Friday 4^th September. The Gathering Discovery Pack will be available with five exclusive bottlings for the virtual tasting element of the global Gathering festival.

Helen Stewart, Head of Marketing and Membership at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, said: “Can you imagine owning your own full cask of single malt whisky? That’s the incredible prize that is up for grabs to all the member of the SMWS.

“Without doubt it’s the biggest prize we’ve ever offered to our members and with our global festival The Gathering beginning on 31st August, it’s the perfect time to show the world what we do at SMWS – but you have to be in it to win it.

“It’s been tough for everyone in different ways, but nothing can stop us from celebrating our amazing membership. We’re encouraging members to join in on their own or organise their own Gathering at home and take part with friends. We’ll be celebrating all things Society at The Gathering from 31st August.”

For details on all The Gathering events, visit: www.smws.com/events

Notes:

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 26,000 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 138 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 seehttps://bit.ly/2uqKanT
• For more information about the Society, visithttps://bit.ly/2HHiNyC
• Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk

HEPBURN’S CHOICE RANGE UNDERGOES VIBRANT RE-BRAND 

Hunter Laing & Co. reveals new look and feel for the range inspired by the directors’ grandfather who travelled the globe in the 1960s with his role in the Diplomatic Service

The family owned Scotch whisky distiller, blender and bottler Hunter Laing & Co. announces a brand-new look and feel for the Hepburn’s Choice range. The    new-look collection will be available worldwide from early September.

Each bottling, whether as a single cask or small batch, showcases the characteristics of a Scottish distillery. The colours of the new design denote the whisky region of the distillery, giving consumers a quick and handy reference as to flavour profile.

The range is named in honour of the directors’ late maternal grandfather, William Hepburn, who travelled the globe with his role in the Diplomatic Service. The new design harks back to the 1960s and William’s heyday, when he lived in places as diverse as Hong Kong, Istanbul, and Nairobi.

The Hepburn’s Choice range is bottled at 46% ABV and without artificial colouring or chill-filtration. The collection is also available to purchase from Ardnahoe Distillery which reopened to the public on Monday 20^th of July.

Commenting on the new design, Stewart Laing, Managing Director, said:“We’re extremely proud of the new design. We aimed to produce a refreshing, vibrant look and feel that would catch the eye of whisky fans worldwide, with a nod to our family heritage.”

Adding to his father’s comments, Scott Laing, Business Development Director, said: “The new look of Hepburn’s Choice is colourful, eye-catching and exciting, which we know will create intrigue with loyal fans of the range and whisky enthusiasts around the world.

“Our range is bottled as 70cls and has been matured in a variety of different casks. The liquid is as good as ever, and we can’t wait to see people’s reaction to the new branding.

“My grandfather’s long experience of attending embassy functions gave him a fine sense of appreciation for his homeland’s whiskies. We believe these bottlings would indeed have been ‘Hepburn’s Choice’.”

Facebook: @Hunterlaingwhisky

Twitter: @hlaingwhisky

Instagram: @hunterlaingwhisky

Notes:

• Hunter Laing & Co is an independent distiller, blender and bottler based in Glasgow and run by the Laing Family – father Stewart with sons Andrew and Scott
• Hunter Laing has been operating since May 2013 and owns a portfolio of much-loved whisky brands including Kinship, Old Malt Cask, Old & Rare, Hepburn’s Choice and Sovereign.
• It distributes to 65 markets around the world in Europe, Asia, the Americas and Australasia.
• Hunter Laing & Co reported pre-tax profits of £2.3m on a turnover of £8.4m for its last full year of trading (end April 2018).
• The Laing family are the owners of Ardnahoe Distillery on Islay, which began distilling in 2018.