Every year – the most updated whisky book on the market!
Malt Whisky Yearbook 2021 will be published 1st October

This is the 16th edition of a book that whisky enthusiasts look forward to every autumn.

The main part of the book (200 pages) covers 665 malt whisky distilleries around the worldwith all the facts updated
New exciting articles by distinguished writers such as Charles MacLean, Gavin D Smith,
Neil Ridley, Jonny McCormick, Joel Harrison and Ian Wisniewski
More than 200 tasting notes, including independent bottlings
New feature – meet seven Whisky Legends with 358 years of experience between them
A listing of more than 150 of the world´s greatest whisky shops
The Whisky Year That Was – the most comprehensive summary you´ll find of the news and trends in the industry
An entire chapter about the world´s leading independent bottlers
All the latest info on bottlings and web sites as well as the latest statistics and figures
More than 500 colour photos

The Malt Whisky Yearbook is the brainchild of editor Ingvar Ronde and was first published in autumn 2005. Since then a new and completely revised edition has been published yearly. What started out as a go-to book for whisky enthusiasts wanting to keep abreast of the ever-changing malt whisky world, soon became a tool also for the whisky industry. Many producers now buy it for their staff (brand ambassadors, tour guides, sales people etc.) to keep them informed about the latest developments.

The Malt Whisky Yearbook 2021 is sold through www.maltwhiskyyearbook.com
for £14.95 plus shipping. Available for preorder now with shipping starting 1st October.
Ingvar Ronde – Editor Malt Whisky Yearbook and Keeper of the Quaich
ingvar.ronde@magdig.com

INTRODUCING JAMESON CRESTED X EIGHT DEGREES BREWING

Irish Distillers, makers of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has joined forces with Eight Degrees Brewing for a unique edition of the beloved Jameson Crested.

Launching this month, Jameson Crested Finished in Black Ball Metric Stout Barrels is the next step in an exciting collaboration between Irish Distillers and its Co. Cork neighbour, Eight Degrees, who last year celebrated eight years of adventurous craft beer brewing by releasing a uniquely dark Black Ball Metric Stout finished in Jameson barrels as the last iteration of their Rack ‘em Up Series.

Always seeking an opportunity to innovate, Jameson returned the compliment by selecting a special whiskey to mature in the stout soaked barrels. The result is a stunning evolution of Jameson Crested, with a rich stout influence married with a luscious creamy texture and lingering finish of pot still spices and malt.

“We were delighted when the opportunity arose to create a truly special whiskey,” explains Irish Distillers’ Blender Dave McCabe.

“When we were selecting a whiskey to mature in these barrels, Jameson Crested became the obvious choice. It’s higher pot still component and sherry cask inclusion allowed the whiskey to meet the impact of the stout head on, creating a balanced reaction.

“We filled the casks in November last year and carefully monitored the whiskey’s progress. After about four months of ageing we felt it was just right.  The stout influence is prevalent in the taste, complementing the whiskey beautifully.

“It’s a truly unique liquid, perfect when enjoyed neat, paired with a craft stout, or as part of a spiced cocktail,” adds McCabe.

Derek Neville, Head Cellarman at Eight Degrees Brewing adds: “It was an honour to be given the opportunity to create our special 8^th anniversary stout using barrels from Jameson, the world’s most popular Irish whiskey. Today we are delighted to have made our mark on Jameson Crested, an icon of Irish whiskey, through the release of this special edition.”

A limited-edition release of fewer than 10,000 bottles globally, Jameson Crested Finished in Black Ball Metric Stout Barrels will launch in Jameson’s brand home outlets at Bow Street, Dublin, and Midleton, Cork, this month, and will be available through Jameson’s online shop at jamesonwhiskey.com, priced at €45 (70cl)[1]. It will also be available to air passengers vising the new Dublin Airport shop in Terminal 2 from mid-October.

Notes: 

Jameson Crested Finished in Black Ball Metric Stout Barrels Tasting Notes, by Dave McCabe, Blender, Midleton Distillery 

Nose: Rich stout influence; malt and vanilla chocolate. Jameson Crested pot still spices and dried fruits. 

Taste: Luscious creamy texture, mild spice, roasted coffee beans and chocolate. 

Finish: Sweet notes fade, pot still spices and malt lingers.

How to Drink:

Enjoy neat to get the best of this liquid or pair with a craft stout (Black Ball Metric Stout the best suiter). For something mixed try:

Eight Degrees Stout & Spiced 

Ingredients: 40ml Crested x Eight Degrees, 100ml Fever Tree Spiced, Orange Ginger Ale, 3 dashes chocolate bitters.

To Make: Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in whiskey, bitters and top with spiced ginger ale. Garnish with an orange wedge. 

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier 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 up to 2019 and hitting sales of 7.6m cases in 2020. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets.

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.

[1] Jameson Crested Finished in Black Ball Metric Stout Barrels will be available for online ordering globally, except US.

RARE FETTERCAIRN 46 YEARS A CELEBRATION OF AGEING EXCELLENCE

Award-winning, exceptionally rare aged expression from a defining year 

Fettercairn Distillery has unveiled a rare, exquisite addition to its range of Highland single malt whiskies.  The Fettercairn 46 Years Old showcases the distillery’s rare maturing stock and its skill in creating the very best in older age expressions; such excellence now endorsed by the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) with its award of Double Gold in the 2020 competition.

Distilled on 8^th May 1973, the initial release of 46 Years Old tells a story of an expertly nurtured aged single malt, but more than that, it honours a definitive moment in time.  This was a year of great historical change; of major innovation and technological advancement and of profound cultural evolution. From the end of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal; to the first handheld mobile phone call and the introduction of the ATM; to space travel and legendary music and movie releases.  Defining, and game changing, too for the innovators of Fettercairn as this was the year the distillery joined the Whyte and Mackay family; a true milestone in the story of this hidden gem.

Beginning with the optimal maturation conditions, the spirit has slumbered in the highest quality casks under the watchful eye of distillery manager John Livie initially in 1973, to Stewart Walker today.

Shaped by a lengthy union with American white oak ex-Bourbon barrels, this single malt went onto spend four years in 40-years-old Tawny Port Pipes, themselves the epitome of scarcity.  This creative maturation gave the classic tropical character a greater depth of sweetness, marrying perfectly with the distinctive flavours created from the unique cooling ring, which defines Fettercairn’s pure spirit.

Bottled at 42.5% ABV, Fettercairn 46 Years Old is naturally cherry wood in colour with a nose of over-ripe bananas, toasted bread, citrus fruit and plum, giving way to raisin, bitter chocolate, fig and spice. The palate is defined by spiced pear, coffee, caramelised orange and liquorice.; leading to black cherries and treacle with a finish of plum, demerara sugar and chocolate.

Kirsteen Beeston, Head of International Malts at Whyte and Mackay, said, “This is a truly scarce and special single malt; a celebration of the years of passion and commitment which are inherent to the way Fettercairn Distillery has always been.

We recognise that having such incredible treasures in our warehouses means we need to ensure we always respect when and how we bring these amazing aged whiskies to single malt drinkers, and this is something we will always honour.

With a firm commitment to exceptional ageing quality, Fettercairn Distillery has consistently demonstrated an unwavering ability to mature and nurture spirit to such high quality and impressive ages. We’re delighted this release has been recognised with the Double Gold award at ISC 2020 – it is testament to how truly exquisite this bottling is.”

With only 55 bottles initially released, Fettercairn 46 Years Old is offered at 42.5% ABV, with no added colour and is non-chill filtered. The new expression will be available from selected global specialist retailers in the UK, Europe and Asia at an RSP of £8,500.

www.fettercairnwhisky.com

Facebook @fettercairnwhisky

Instagram @fettercairnwhisky

Twitter @FettercairnWh

Product Information:

Fettercairn 46 Years Old

ABV: 42.5%

70cl

Colour – rays of amber gold and cherry wood

Nose – Over-ripe bananas, toasted bread, citrus fruit and plum, giving way to raisin, bitter chocolate, fig and spice.

Taste – Spiced pear, coffee, caramelised orange and liquorice. Followed by black cherries and treacle with a finish of plum, demerara sugar and chocolate. 

About Fettercairn

Located in the picturesque village of Fettercairn at the foothills of Scotland’s Cairngorm Mountains, this hidden gem is found among some of the finest and most fertile farming land in the North East of Scotland. With the purest of mountain water as an ingredient, it is almost no surprise that when the distillery was established by Sir Alexander Ramsay in 1824, the enterprising pioneer chose this location.

In the mid-1950s, the whisky-makers at Fettercairn experimented, seeking ways to create a purer expression of their spirit. They found that pouring water down the still cooled the copper, increasing condensation inside so only the lightest vapours could rise for collection. With this knowledge they fashioned a unique copper cooling ring around the neck of the stills drenching them with crystal clear mountain water – an ingenious and practical solution to creating their exceptional whisky, a technique which remains unique in Scotch whisky-making to this day.

About Whyte & Mackay Group Ltd.

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).

ABERFELDY® RELEASE 18 YEARS OLD LIMITED-EDITION FRENCH RED WINE CASK

Hamilton, Bermuda, 8^th September 2020 – John Dewar & Sons unveils its latest limited expression from The Golden Dram – ABERFELDY 18 Years Old, finished in French Wine Casks from Pauillac, Bordeaux.

The special edition bottling will be available today from the Distillery shop, https://shop.dewars.com/ for an exclusive one-month period before being released in selected markets.

Initially spending 18 years in a combination of first-fill Bourbon, re-fill and re-char casks, the whisky has undergone a second maturation period of around 4-5 months to impart a deeper flavour profile, and create a perfect balance between Aberfeldy’s honeyed richness and the firm tannins and complexity of Pauillac wines.

Pauillac is one of the most sought-after wine regions in Bordeaux, home to world famous wineries, the appellation produces a collection of fine red wines that are unrivalled in terms of quality. Having the deepest gravel in the Médoc*, with some chalk and clay, soils and microclimates play a vital role in Pauillac. In Bordeaux, proximity to the river is also all-important. Vineyards located at the river’s edge bask in a microclimate, and this is where the highest quality wines in Bordeaux are found.

The style of Pauillac wine is what many think of as textbook Bordeaux wine; a balance of power and grace with notable flavours of cassis, blackberry, tobacco, cigar box, spice, earth and cedar wood aromas coupled with firm tannins.

Malt Master, Stephanie MacLeod, carefully monitored maturation and flavour development in the casks until the desired flavour profile had been achieved. Pauillac is a robust wine, so the goal was to use this cask type to complement and elevate the signature character of Aberfeldy, not mask it.

Stephanie comments, “Pauillac casks are the aristocrats of the Médoc, they provide notes of black cherries, blackberries and a cedar wood spice. Aberfeldy’s wonderfully soft signature honey and creamy vanilla notes are invigorated with swathes of plush ripe fruits and lovely nutty aromas to create an incredibly elegant and fruitful whisky”

ABERFELDY 18 Years Old French Red Wine Cask expression is bottled at a higher strength of 43% ABV and joins the existing portfolio of single malts as a limited-edition expression.

Priced at £95, the new bottling will be initially available exclusively from the Aberfeldy Distillery and its online shop: https://shop.dewars.com/ from 8^th September for one month and then rolled out  in the following markets: USA, China, Taiwan, Germany, France.

Aberfeldy Distillery reopened to visitors on July 20th, experiences such as the Aberfeldy Tour, Cask Tasting Tour and Connoisseur Tour are all available to pre-book online. Visitors to Aberfeldy Distillery’s Whisky Lounge and Bar, which is open to guests booked onto an experience, can and raise a dram with one of the ABERFELDY® whiskies on offer in comfort, and will be able to purchase ABERFELDY 18 Years Old direct from the Distillery shop.

www.Aberfeldy.com

Notes:

* Pauillac is a French appellation in the Médoc wine region of Bordeaux, located in the département of Gironde, on the left bank of the Gironde estuary. Pauillac is wine growing commune (municipality) and appellation within Haut-Médoc in Bordeaux, centred on the small town of Pauillac. An appellation is a legally defined and protected geographical indication used to identify where the grapes for a wine are grown. 

About ABERFELDY Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABERFELDY distillery was founded in 1898 by the dynamic Dewar brothers, John Alexander and Tommy. They built on a site just a stone’s throw from the birthplace of their father, the pioneering blender John Dewar.

Alongside the distillery, and known to contain deposits of alluvial gold, flows the Pitilie Burn; the perfect water source for the Golden Dram. While inside, time-honoured techniques like long fermentation, which conjures rare honeyed notes, safeguard the whisky’s flavour profile, renowned for its rich, sweet, smooth taste.

The brand’s core portfolio is comprised of ABERFELDY 12 Years Old, ABERFELDY 16 Years and ABERFELDY 21 Years Old.

The single malt brand of ABERFELDY is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.

ENJOY ABERFELDY RESPONSIBLY

【ISC 2020】 Matsui Whisky won GOLD

On September 10th, the results of ISC 2020 came out.

4 products from Matsui Whisky won GOLD in Japanese Whisky category at “International Spirits Challenge 2020”. ISC is one of the most reliable international spirits competition, organized by “Drinks International”. It was their 25th year. Over 1700 entries from 70 countries were entered and judged by spirits experts through blind tasting.

≪Award List≫

Blended Whisky San-in

Pure Malt Whisky Kurayoshi Sherry Cask

Pure Malt Whisky Kurayoshi 8 Years

Pure Malt Whisky Kurayoshi 12 Years

Results: https://internationalspiritschallenge.com/2020/en/page/2020-results

For products inquiry, please contact our importer in the United States.
【ImpEx Beverage】
Email: office@impexbev.com
Phone: (650) 872 1113
Website: https://impexbev.com/

【Matsui Shuzo】

Email: info@matsuiwhisky.com

Website: https://matsuiwhisky.com/en/

-SNS-

Facebook: Matsui Whisky

Instagram: @matsuiwhisky

Twitter: @matsuiwhisky

JACK DANIEL’S MASTER DISTILLER JEFF ARNETT STEPPING DOWN

AFTER NEARLY 20 YEARS AT ICONIC TENNESSEE WHISKEY BRAND

LYNCHBURG, Tenn. (September 3, 2020) — Following a nearly 20-year career at the Jack Daniel Distillery, where he served as Master Distiller for the last 12, Jeff Arnett is stepping down from his position, the company announced today.

Appointed Master Distiller in April 2008, Jeff has stewarded the iconic Tennessee Whiskey and been instrumental to the growth of Jack Daniel’s, which is now sold in more than 170 countries around the world. Jack Daniel’s is the #1 selling whiskey in the world.

“When Jeff became the Master Distiller, we said that he would carry on the long tradition of folks who have made the world’s best whiskey for more than 150 years, and that’s exactly what he’s done,” said Larry Combs, Jack Daniel Distillery SVP and General Manager. “He has worked tirelessly on behalf of the distillery and brought with him the creativity and the expertise that makes Jack Daniel’s the most valuable whiskey brand in the world. We thank him for his leadership not only at Jack Daniel’s but in the whiskey industry and wish him all the best.”

In 2017, Jeff was named Master Distiller of the Year by Whisky Magazine and he has served on the board of the Tennessee Distillers Guild since 2016, most recently as Vice President. Under Arnett’s tenure, his know-how combined with his curiosity as a whiskey maker have contributed to numerous innovations by the Jack Daniel Distillery, including the introduction of super-premium whiskeys such as Sinatra Select, Single Barrel Barrel Proof, Single Barrel “Heritage Barrel” and the Tennessee Tasters’ limited edition series. Several flavored whiskeys were also launched under his watch, including Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Tennessee Fire and Tennessee Apple. He most recently lent his expertise towards the crafting of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye, the first new grain bill from the Jack Daniel Distillery since Prohibition.

“The last 20 years at the Jack Daniel Distillery have been an incredible chapter in my life and I look forward to spending some time to think about what the next chapter will hold,” said Arnett. “I wish everyone in Lynchburg the best and I am appreciative of the support and confidence they have shown in me to represent Jack Daniel’s to the world during my time there. It has been an honor and privilege to be one of only a handful of people to have served as the Master Distiller of this wonderful brand known around the world as simply ‘Jack’.”

As Master Distiller, Arnett has been responsible for the overall whiskey-making operations in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Prior to that position, he oversaw quality control and the Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel program. Throughout his time at the distillery, he worked in a variety of capacities including warehousing, maturation, distillation, charcoal mellowing management, barrel quality and bottling, and enjoyed a long tenure on the Master Tasters’ panel.  Jeff has also traveled the world to share the story of Jack Daniel’s and sip whiskey with old and new friends alike.

The distillery said it would have an announcement on Arnett’s replacement in the coming weeks.

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

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.

www.ardbeg.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg

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

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.

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