Organisers at the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival have today (Tuesday 17 March) announced this year’s Festival will be cancelled in light of social restriction guidelines in response to the global Coronavirus pandemic.

Now in its 21st year, the six day celebration of Speyside’s distilling prowess was planned to take place from 29 April – 4 May 2020. The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival welcomes international and domestic visitors to Speyside – the global epicentre of distilling – each year to be immersed in the region’s whisky mastery.

The decision to cancel the 2020 Whisky Festival reflects the quickly-evolving situation as a result of the Covid-19 virus and recommendations from the Scottish Government to restrict public gatherings as a preventative measure.

Ticket holders will be contacted as soon as possible by the Whisky Festival Team and refunds will be at the discretion of individual event providers.

James Campbell, Chairman at The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, said:

“In response to the escalating situation with Covid-19, the Board of Directors have decided that this year’s Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is cancelled as a preventative measure. Our Festival welcomes visitors from across the globe to the region each year and it is our priority to keep both our visitors and the local community safe. We very much regret the inconvenience that this will cause our visitors, event providers,
members, partners and local communities, and trust that everyone will fully understand why we have had to make this decision.”

Notes 

About the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

First launched in 1999, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival’s annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink has developed into one of the largest events of its kind anywhere in the world. With a programme of over 700 whisky-inspired events over 6 days, the Festival is a mecca for the curious beginner and the whisky connoisseur alike. Festival events take place throughout Speyside, the biggest whisky producing
region in Scotland, located in the Moray area in the North-East of the county between Aberdeen and Inverness.

Over the years, the Festival has developed close links with many Speyside businesses and communities who help to fund the festival. It is a true team effort to deliver an ever-improving range of events and services to make the six days of the Festival a truly unforgettable experience.

www.spiritofspeyside.com

JAMESON TAKES ST. PATRICK’S DAY TO NEW HEIGHTS

AT THE WORLD’S HIGHEST IRISH BAR 

Jameson Irish Whiskey, the world’s favourite Irish whiskey, could be the drink of choice this St Patrick’s Day, at the world’s highest Irish bar.

Taking the Irish tradition to new heights, Jameson set out with a group of adventurous Jameson fans to make sure the world’s most remote Irish pub in Nepal has everything it needs to pull off an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day.

The Irish Pub at Namche Bazaar is located at a breath-taking 3,440m above sea level, in the Himalayan Mountains. The last stop before Everest base camp, this welcoming spot is the embodiment of true Irish spirit, as adventurers settle in and share their travel stories over a well-earned drink.

Pictured here: a group of Jameson fans at The Irish Pub, whose expedition to the Himalayas was part of a larger “Join In” campaign by the world’s favourite Irish whiskey.

NOTES 

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.

Uncovering the turbulent history of Irish Whiskey this St. Patrick’s Day

by Irish whiskey expert Jay Bradley, founder of The Craft Irish Whiskey Co. and Whiskey & Wealth Club

With the Emerald Isle’s St Patrick’s Day on the not-too-distant horizon, thoughts inevitably turn to iconic festivities to be enjoyed. For many this involves toasting a taoscán of Irish whiskey.

The day and drink are synonymous with each other. It is said St. Patrick himself, when short-changed on a shot of whiskey, berated a local innkeeper. Declaring his cellar possessed by a devil that fed off his dishonesty. Returning later he found the innkeeper filling every glass to the brim with whiskey after vowing to change his ways.

Cut to today, the Irish whiskey industry is on the up. With the number of distilleries across the country hitting a 120-year high in 2019 and sales expected to grow to 14 million cases this year. It is also gaining global recognition, with an Irish whiskey winning the highly coveted accolade of the world’s best single malt last year.

This comeback comes after a turbulent twentieth century which saw Irish whiskey fall from grace, losing 99% of its market share. Going from the biggest selling spirit globally to near collapse. Production went from 12 million cases to less than 100,000.

The industry, however, has since picked itself up and like the phoenix is rising from the ashes and beginning to spread its wings on a global scale.

The fall

Irish whiskey sailed into what turned out to be a perfect storm of disasters and shocks, which brought the industry crashing down to its knees. Back in 1914, Ireland was under British rule and the First World War broke out on the continent. To help the war effort, barley, crucial to making Irish whiskey was re-directed from distilleries to support the war effort and feed soldiers on the western front. This was coupled with the fact that German U-boats were patrolling the waters around the British Isles, making it far too dangerous for global exports.

It doesn’t stop there, during the First World War, the Easter Rising led to many large Dublin distilleries closing as they were taken over by rebel forces. After the war, production and exports were able to continue. Then in 1919 came the Irish War of Independence.

Just as things couldn’t get worse for the industry prohibition came into force in the US. Shutting off one of the major markets for Irish whiskey. Looking to make headway in the global market, the British then offered a parting gift to the new Irish Free State. Banning exports of Irish whiskey to the Commonwealth, eliminating much of what was left of the global market. In turn allowing Scotch whisky to flourish. 

Then there were four 

After all this turmoil, only four distillers survived (John Jameson, John Powers, Cork Distillers and Bushmills). Hundreds had gone bankrupt.

The remaining four Irish distilleries stayed local and avoided going global again and so, not actively challenging to reclaim the lost global market share. Merging the remaining few distilleries in Ireland, into Irish Distillers (IDL) created a monopoly for over three decades. This gave them total control of every single drop of whiskey produced across all of Ireland. Production remained grow to two million cases per year by the late 1980s.

Back to prominence 

The Irish whiskey industry slowly began to build its way back up when Pernod Ricard bought IDL in 1988. The new owners were eager to expand and invested in on the ground salespeople that helped boost the Irish whiskey market by double digits annually. 

The Irish whiskey industry is now primed to continue its growth to help reclaim much of its lost market share. As demand rises amongst consumers. With drinkers increasingly choosing whiskey as their spirit of choice.

I’ve always thought of Irish whiskey as liquid gold, and so it is great to see consumers and investors around the world turn their heads to it.

 Long may this continue, for should it disappear St Patrick’s day in the future would be a diminished spectacle: for the loss of one of its most iconic elements, which should always be served in a full measure!

Sláinte!

#ardbeg #untamed #islay #mickeyheads 

BIG BOOTS TO FILL AS ARDBEG BEGIN THE SEARCH FOR A NEW DISTILLERY MANAGER

< Mickey Heads announces his retirement and steps down after 13 years at the helm. The search for a new manager to fill his shoes begins… >

In October 2020, Mickey Heads will retire as Ardbeg Distillery Manager after 13 years in the role.

During Mickey’s time, he has played a part in the spectacular growth of the Ardbeg brand while maintaining the impeccable quality of the whisky. He has also acted as Chairman of the Ardbeg Committee, the brand’s loyal following of fans across the world – a position he will retain for the next three years. Having led eight Ardbeg Days to date, the Distillery is delighted to have him as their Committee Chairman for three more – especially as Ardbeg Day 2020 will toast to the 20^th Anniversary of the Committee.

Nevertheless, the production of the ultimate single malt stops for no one. The search for a new Ardbeg Distillery Production Manager – a dream job for an experienced Distiller with a passion for smoky whisky – is now well and truly underway.

Mickey spent his whole working life on Islay and Jura and joined Ardbeg as Distillery Manager in 2007. In his time, he oversaw 107,700 casks of spirit, and helped Ardbeg pick up more Whisky of the Year and Distillery of the Year awards than any manager before him – quite the legacy. It’s safe to say that he’s more than earned his retirement.

Mickey Heads said: “Being at the helm of Ardbeg for 13 years has been a great privilege. The whisky we make here is of wonderful quality, and being part of the team that creates it is fantastic. Ardbeg has such a long history, I’ve always seen myself as a custodian carrying it forward for the next generation. So, you just do it as well as you can, and with as much passion as you can.”

Thomas Moradpour, CEO of The Glenmorangie Company, said: “Mickey Heads is a hugely respected figure in the world of single malt whisky and will be sorely missed by Ardbeggians everywhere. There cannot be many Distillery Managers who combine such a wealth of knowledge, depth of passion and warmth of welcome. On behalf of everybody who has had the pleasure of meeting or working with Mickey, I want to express gratitude for all his hard work in maintaining the quality and reputation of the Ardbeg brand. His successor will have a hard act to follow.”

Finding the right person to carry on Mickey’s great work is now a number one priority and Ardbeg look forward to launching a new era for the iconic Islay Distillery. Interested parties can find out more here.

Ardbeg Distillery Production Manager

The Glenmorangie Company Isle of Islay, Scotland, United Kingdom

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

• Employment type

  Full-time

• Job function

  Production

• Industries

  Wine and Spirits

#ardbeg #untamed smoky #islay #bggg2020 #brewgooder 

IT’S ALL HANDS TO THE PUMP, AS ARDBEG LAUNCHES A LIMITED EDITION BEER IN SUPPORT OF BREWGOODER’S GLOBAL GATHERING 

All profits from the Scottish whisky maker’s first ever beer to be donated to charity supporting clean water projects in Malawi 

ISLAY, UK – 10 March 2020 – Today, Ardbeg, the world-renowned Islay Distillery, announced the release of its first ever beer – The Shortie Smoky Porter. Named after Ardbeg’s beloved canine mascot (Shortie the Jack Russell), this limited edition will be launched in partnership with Brewgooder as part of their Global Gathering campaign.

The brain-child of flatmates Alan McIntyre, Global Brand Manager at Ardbeg, and Alan Mahon, Founder of Brewgooder, the beer has been produced in aid of World Water Day (22 March 2020) with all profits from The Shortie Smoky Porter donated to support clean water projects in Malawi.

To produce this one-off beer – which will be available exclusively in the UK for a limited time only –  Ardbeg has joined forces with Williams Bros. Brewing Co. The Shortie Smoky Porter is made using the same peated malt as the award-winning Ardbeg Ten Years Old whisky, capturing the Distillery’s signature smoky character with notes of bitter dark chocolate, malty biscuit, dry espresso coffee and a hint of liquorice.

Ardbeg is the only spirits brand alongside around 250 craft brewers from around the world, all releasing their own unique, one off-brew in aid of the Global Gathering. A coordinated release of the beers will take place over the weekend of World Water Day – March 20^th – 22^nd 2020.

Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation & Whisky Stocks commented: “We all dig Ardbeg, and no more so than Shortie. So for this life-saving, well-digging clean water brew, it was only fitting that our canine mascot should represent Islay. As with most porters, this beer is smooth and creamy. However our malt has helped make it distinctly smoky – the way we imagine an Ardbeg beer is meant to taste!”

Mickey Heads, Ardbeg Distillery Manager, said: “Not only is this a hugely important cause – that we’re delighted to be a part of – but The Shortie Smoky Porter is of course a first for the Distillery. Helping brew a beer may seem like unchartered territory for Ardbeg, but as any whiskyphile worth their malt will tell you, beer and whisky share the same DNA. Just like brewers, we ferment our malt. The only difference being, we hold on to the hops. We hope that Ardbeggians and craft beer lovers alike will enjoy this extra special limited edition.”

Alan Mahon, founder of Brewgooder, commented: “This collaboration is particularly special for me. To create an incredible beer that helps empower people’s lives is one thing, to do it with one of the world’s best whisky brands is another, but to bring it to life with my best friend: there are few things I have been prouder of in my life. I look forward to working with the team at Ardbeg to turn the profits from this beer into life-saving clean water wells for those who need them.”

The Shortie Smoky Porter will be available to purchase exclusively in the UK from the Ardbeg Distillery Visitor Centre, online at Ardbeg.com, in select stores and Ardbeg Embassies across the UK from Tuesday 24^th March – priced at £14 for a four-pack.

Follow Us On

Website: www.ardbeg.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg

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

Tag us: #Ardbeg 

NOTES:

Tasting Notes 

ABV: 6.2% 

Colour:

Dark peat bog brown

Nose:

On the nose, Ardbeg’s distinctive peat gives rise to more oily notes intermingled with sour cherries, rich coal tar and pine. Ardbeg’s malt then begins to reveal itself, with aromas of toasted nuts and sweet lemon and lime.

Taste:

On the palate, this smoky porter boasts a typically creamy texture, with bitter dark chocolate, malty biscuit, dry espresso coffee and a hint of liquorice.

Finish:

In a finish that lingers long beyond the can, delicious and distinctively smoky notes guide the palate towards the bitter end. 

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.

Brewgooder Global Gathering Campaign

The Scottish craft beer brand, Brewgooder, has attracted more than 240 brewers from around the world to its biggest campaign to date. The Global Gathering is a collaborative brewing project on a mission to provide clean water for 100,000 people in developing countries. The campaign aims to partner with hundreds of breweries in the UK and around the world to brew unique, small-batch beers. A coordinated release of the beers will take place over the weekend of World Water Day – March 20-22^nd 2020. To find out more and join the movement, visit www.brewgooder.com/gathering 

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

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.  Most recently, at the 2019 World Whisky Awards, Ardbeg Ten Years Old triumphed in the 12 Years and Under category, and Ardbeg Corryvreckan in the Non-Age Statement section. In the International Whisky Challenge 2019, Ardbeg was named Distillery of the Year and Ardbeg An Oa took home three awards, including best Islay malt.  Meanwhile, Ardbeg Uigeadail was handed a rare platinum medal by the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019 (SFWSC) – an award reserved for a handful of spirits, deemed near the pinnacle of achievement.

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 Statement Regarding Visitors Center Closures Due to Coronavirus

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Effective close of business today, March 13, 2020, the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center in Bardstown, Kentucky and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Downtown Louisville will temporarily suspend all tours and retail sales. Heaven Hill will continue to assess the public health situation and will reopen at a future date that is to be determined. Heaven Hill is taking this measure as a safeguard to protect its employees and guests and the action comes in the wake of recommendations by Federal and State health officials and by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association to take all necessary precautions to help reduce the potential spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). All previously scheduled tours will be refunded – visitors with questions please visit https://heavenhilldistillery.com/visit-us.php for contact information.

There are no confirmed cases of Coronavirus at any Heaven Hill facility. Coronavirus has not impacted production. Additionally, all production facilities are operating as usual with added health and safety protocols.

After a special meeting on Thursday, the KDA Board of Directors recommended that members take all necessary precautions to reduce the potential spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Some KDA members are implementing strict measures to safeguard visitors, including enhanced sanitation procedures and reduced tour and tasting group sizes, or scaling back tours of sensitive areas, while others are choosing to suspend tours temporarily.

Heaven Hill is committed to protecting the health and safety of its most valuable asset, the employees, and is taking this mitigating action to support broader initiatives across the Commonwealth and ensure general public safety. Through the guidance of the Center for Disease Control and state health department, Heaven Hill will continue to update health and safety protocols as necessary.

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 1.6 million barrels aging in 58 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.

REDBREAST IRISH WHISKEY INTRODUCES ITS OLDEST EVER PERMANENT EXPRESSION, 27 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Irish Distillers, makers of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has introduced Redbreast 27 Year Old, the oldest permanent expression in the beloved Redbreast series. An iconic addition to the collection, Redbreast 27 Year Old includes whiskey matured in ruby port barrels from Portugal’s Douro Valley to bring a new complexity and depth to the Redbreast collection.

Redbreast 27 Year Old will join Redbreast 12, 15, 21 Year Old and Lustau, taking its position at the head of the family with its distinguished age statement. Spending 27 years maturing under the watchful eyes of the Midleton Masters, it was Master Blender Billy Leighton and Blender Dave McCabe who set their sights on building further on the celebrated foundation of bourbon and sherry casks so synonymous with Redbreast with the addition of a ruby port cask.

For over 30 years the team at Midleton has travelled to the Douro Valley in Portugal where port has been produced for two thousand years, to discover the finest caves in the region in a quest to provide drinkers with a truly unique taste experience. Having sourced ruby port casks, the masters filled them with pot still distillate before leaving them to mature. The ruby port barrels impart fleshy fruit characteristics with notes of toasted oak which complements the rich and robust style of the distillate. 

Master Blender Billy Leighton comments: “It gives us great pleasure to reveal the latest member of the Redbreast Irish Whiskey family. In creating this whiskey, Dave and I drew on our experience of working with sherry and other wine casks over the years as we have evolved the range. This time, we wanted to push the boundaries and yet create an expression that would seamlessly take its place at the head of the family.  Nearly three decades in the making, we are incredibly proud to present Redbreast 27 Year Old – a cask strength Redbreast expression that is a joy to behold in each and every sip.”

Blender Dave McCabe adds: “Bottled at 54.6% cask strength, the ruby port barrels contribute notes of mango, pineapple and berry to the robust flavour of Redbreast 27 Year Old, clearly distinguishing it from the previous expressions in the collection, treading a beautiful balance of tradition and innovation.”

Produced in limited quantities on an ongoing basis, Redbreast 27 Year Old is available in 11 markets from March 2020 at RRP€495.

Redbreast 27 Year Old tasting notes by Master Blender Billy Leighton and Blender Dave McCabe:

Nose: A mix of exotic fruits and red berries, complemented by fresh herbs and wood spices. Vanilla sweetness and treacle toffee combine with the nuttiness of toasted oak.

Taste: Incredibly rich in texture with a luxurious combination of ripe stone fruits and summer berries, balanced by the prickle of a hint of chilli oil. Cherry menthol, vanilla and cinnamon sweet spices complement red pepper, nutmeg and toasted oak.

Finish: A satisfyingly long balance of ripe fruit and wood spices, worthy of a journey of nearly three decades.

NOTES Redbreast is the world’s bestselling and most awarded single pot still Irish whiskey.

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.

KILBEGGAN DISTILLING COMPANY INTRODUCES KILBEGGAN® SINGLE POT STILL IRISH WHISKEY 

Double distilled and matured in Ireland’s oldest continually licensed distillery, Kilbeggan® Single Pot Still features a rare oats-based mash inspired by late-1800’s recipes

Chicago, IL (February 6, 2020) – Kilbeggan Distilling Company continues to revive Irish whiskey history and tradition with the limited-edition release of Kilbeggan® Single Pot Still, a mixed mash whiskey featuring oats, which were used at Kilbeggan Distillery in the 19^th century. Pot Still whiskey is significant, as it is the traditional and distinctive style of Irish whiskey that was first produced in Ireland. The limited-edition Kilbeggan® Single Pot Still Irish whiskey will be available in the United States starting February 2020 with a suggested retail price of $44.99 (750ml).

“This remarkable whiskey is a glorious tribute to the traditional Irish pot still style and the community that kept Ireland’s oldest continually licensed distillery alive over centuries of trial and triumph,” said Michael Egan, U.S. Irish Whiskey Brand Ambassador for Kilbeggan Distilling Company. “It is a truly unique spirit, with a rare mash that has produced a flavor unlike anything available today.”

Featuring a unique mash of malted barley, raw barley and 2.5 percent oats, the whiskey was inspired by recipes used at Kilbeggan Distillery through the late 1800s. In those times, oats were grown across the Midlands Region of Ireland and were commonly used by distillers like the Locke family at Kilbeggan for filtration purposes. The grain also imparts a unique flavor and creamy texture not typically found in Irish whiskey. The subtle influence of oats in this Kilbeggan Single Pot Still expression results in a whiskey that is soft and mellow, with a fresh, fruity palate. It has a light, lingering spice and a rich, creamy mouthfeel.

Double distilled to 86 proof in Kilbeggan’s old copper pot stills – one of which is the world’s oldest working whiskey pot still today – the new spirit is the second limited release to be 100 percent distilled and matured at Kilbeggan Distillery since its restoration in 2010. Kilbeggan Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks due to its soft and round character. It follows the release of Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye, another groundbreaking release and the first modern Irish whiskey of record to feature such a high quantity of rye within its mash.

KILBEGGAN® SINGLE POT STILL | 43% ABV

AROMA: Initial fresh crisp aroma followed by apple, pear, and melon. Jasmine and hazelnut notes combine with a hint of honeycomb sweetness. 

TASTE : Spice becomes apparent, but not overbearing, with summer fruits and citrus. Warming mid palate with a fresh mint leaf flavor leading on to a rich creamy mouthfeel.

FINISH: Initially soft, mellow, and smooth, with a creamy finish. Lingering spice and a dryness as the oat influence become evident.

Limited Edition Kilbeggan® Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey joins the U.S. portfolio alongside permanent expressions Kilbeggan® Blended Irish Whiskey (40% ABV) and Kilbeggan® Single Grain Irish Whiskey (43% ABV).

Note to Editors: What is Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey?

A single pot still Irish whiskey is produced only in Ireland, at a single distillery that is double- or triple-distilled in copper pot stills from a mix of malted and unmalted barley and up to 5% of other grains.

About Beam Suntory Inc.

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

WHISKY CONNOISSEURS INVITED TO EXPLORE THE GLENDRONACH DISTILLERY WITH NEW VISITOR CENTRE EXPERIENCE

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

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

The GlenDronach Distillery is pleased to announce the completion of its newly renovated prestige visitor experience at the heart of the Highland Single Malt’s historic distillery in Aberdeenshire.

Founded in 1826 by James Allardice, The GlenDronach distillery has long been established as the home of the rich and full-bodied Single Malt Scotch Whisky, slowly matured in Spanish sherry casks. Inspired by a rich heritage and craftsmanship, the enhanced visitor’s centre offers a new tasting room, whisky bar, lounge area and retail space.

The design draws inspiration from the distillery’s historic buildings, some of which date back as far as 1771, as well as the rich colour and flavour profiles of The GlenDronach itself. The original natural stone walls are complemented by rich wood tones, marble, leather, understated brass accents and warm lighting; creating an inviting environment in which to explore and enjoy The GlenDronach.

The elevated visitor’s centre also displays a rich collection of both rare and historic GlenDronach expressions, including the distillery’s oldest bottle which was bottled in 1913 just before the outbreak of WWI.
Visitors will be able to explore the new tasting bar, which will offer a selection of GlenDronach flights and drams, alongside tea, coffee and other non-alcoholic refreshments. The distillery-exclusive Hand Fill gives GlenDronach connoisseurs a rare opportunity to fill, seal, label and sign their own cask strength bottle of The GlenDronach from a choice of two sherry casks.

This is the first refurbishment of the visitor’s centre since Brown-Forman purchased The GlenDronach distillery in 2016. This recent investment has created six new jobs in the Scottish Northeast region, to  welcome the growing number of whisky tourists to the historic Huntly-based distillery in the Highland whisky region. The space has been designed by expert brand home designers 1751, alongside Ross McNally from Glasgow-based design consultancy, Scarinish Studio.

Welcoming the opening of the enhanced visitor centre experience, The GlenDronach Distillery’s Homeplace Manager, Jennifer Proctor, said:

“James Allardice was both a visionary entrepreneur and a warm and welcoming host, often inviting friends and neighbours into his home to share a dram of his ‘guid GlenDronach’.

Our vision was to carry forth his hospitality and to bring the traditional craftsmanship of The GlenDronach to life, creating the perfect experience for our visitors to immerse themselves in the distillery’s rich heritage and our Highland Single Malts. Everything has been designed around the guest experience, from the striking circular table in our tasting room to the comfortable leather lounge area. With a range of tours also available, we look forward to welcoming everyone from the whisky curious to experienced aficionados to fully explore the home of The GlenDronach’s rich and full-bodied Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.”
Visit The GlenDronach Distillery visitor centre and gift shop, with guided tours running regularly throughout the day or enjoy a dram at the whisky tasting bar. The Visitor Centre is open from 10am – 4:30pm, 7 days a week.

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