Larkfire founder and whisky enthusiast James McIntosh reveals his favourite drams for Burns Night after visiting over 50 distilleries in the past four months. A whisky enthusiast has selected six of the best scotch whiskies to try ahead of Burns Night on January 25th. James McIntosh – co-founder of ‘wild water’ whisky mixer Larkfire – has compiled the list after visiting more than 50 distilleries in Scotland in the past four months. James, who likes to add a splash of Larkfire to the whiskies recommended below, has put together tasting notes for those looking to try something different this Burns Night:

1)  The GlenAllachie (Cask Strength, 10-year-old):

We love The GlenAllachie distillery and the people there. It’s a definite must-visit on the whisky trail. This particular whisky has a nose of heather, honey, toffee apples, and a taste of vanilla with Caribbean spices. Billy Walker, co-founder of The GlenAllachie, is a legend in the industry, and won the Master Distiller/Master Blender of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Awards in December. Lovely drinking!

www.theglenallachie.com

2)  Glengoyne (18-year-old):

This is a picture-perfect distillery. We recommend the 18-year-old expression, which uses 50% first-fill sherry casks. It has a tremendous depth and mouth feel, with a taste not unlike a lightly spiced apple strudel.

www.glengoyne.com

3)  Bunnahabhain, Caorag:

Caorag – or ‘small-peat’ in Scottish Gaelic – is a hand-filled exclusive distillery release. A perfect balance with a sweet sherry influence and warming peaty flavour. It’s perfect for a dark January night.

www.bunnahabhain.com

4)  Scapa, The Orcadian:

This whisky offers a very sophisticated, honeyed flavour. It’s mellow and easy-drinking with a very delicate taste. Worth trying in a Mizuwari-style, served using Larkfire.

www.scapawhisky.com

5)  Aberfeldy (12-year-old):

A fantastic whisky with a longer fermentation period, encouraging a honeyed sweetness which works nicely with its little hint of spice. A beautiful Highland single malt, an absolute triumph.

www.dewars.com

6) Blair Athol (12-year-old):

A fantastic, rich, sweet Highland single malt, from the Flora & Fauna range. Notes include dried apricots and treacle toffee. We enjoyed drinking this at the unique Mash Tun tasting bar, which certainly adds to the experience.

www.malts.com/en-gb/visit-our-distilleries/blair-athol

James McIntosh travelled the length and breadth of Scotland, visiting countless distilleries ahead of the launch of award-winning ‘wild water’ Larkfire, which releases and enhances the depth of flavour of whisky.

Larkfire was launched after a study by Swedish chemists Björn Karlsson and Ran Friedman in the Scientific Reports journal helped prove that water boosts the concentration of flavour compounds at the surface of whisky, enhancing the flavour.

The wild water was recently named Best Premium/Adult Drink at the World Beverage Innovation Awards, and is sourced from the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

James said: “In Scotland there is incredible passion and care involved in making whisky, so if you enjoy a splash of water with your dram, it’s important not to undo any elements of the complex distilling and aging process by ensuring you’re adding the best possible water.

“People often add tap water to scotch, but the water has been recycled several times before it reaches your glass, and the added chlorine and fluoride interfere with the delicate whisky flavours. Bottled water also has a high mineral content which affects the aroma and taste.

“However, Larkfire is the perfect water to mix with whisky as it is pure and naturally soft with an exceptionally low mineral content thanks to the billion-year-old Lewisian gneiss rocks, a key feature of the geology of the Isle of Lewis.”

A percentage of Larkfire sales flow back into the islands via a partnership with The Stornoway Trust, a community landlord which looks after 69,000 acres of land on the Isle of Lewis, where the water is sourced.

Larkfire is the only known canned water for whisky and is now available for just £1 a can at www.larkfire.co.uk.

The Macallan Celebrates the Year of the Rat with the Release of a Limited Edition Lunar New Year Gift Set  

(NEW YORK, January 22, 2020) The Macallan has revealed a stunning new limited-edition gift set for the Double Cask 12 Years Old to celebrate the forthcoming Lunar New Year. Now in its third year, the Year of the Rat package joins the annual series to commemorate the zodiac on the Chinese calendar.

Featuring two bottles of The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old, the Lunar New Year gift box and label showcase traditional knots with an artistic representation of the rat zodiac symbol. The center of the knot is accented with red and gold, traditional colors in Lunar New Year celebrations. A symbol of longevity and eternity, knots have a long history and symbolic meaning within Asian culture.

The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old limited edition Lunar New Year pack will be available to buy from selected retailers across the USA for a suggested retail price of $140. 

Tasting Notes:

Color: Harvest sun

Nose: Creamy butterscotch, candied orange and vanilla custard

Palate: Honey, spices and citrus, balanced with raisins and caramel

Finish:  Oak lingers, warm, sweet and drying

ABV: 43%

For further information visit www.themacallan.com/en-us

About The Macallan

Founded in 1824, The Macallan is one of the worlds’ most admired and awarded single malt whiskies. The reputation of The Macallan is based on a product of outstanding quality and distinctive character. An obsession with excellence has been the hallmark of The Macallan since its founding, by Alexander Reid, on a plateau above the river Spey in north-east Scotland.

In May 2018, The Macallan unveiled its new £140 million distillery and visitor experience on its Speyside estate, increasing investment in whisky, warehousing and in The Macallan’s signature sherry-seasoned oak casks.  The striking contemporary architecture, cut into the slope of the land, takes its cues from ancient Scottish hills.  It stands nearby Easter Elchies House, the Highland Manor built in 1700 which has been The Macallan’s spiritual home since 1824.  The new distillery marks an important milestone, recognizing the significant journey of The Macallan since 1824 and marking an exciting new chapter in the evolution of the luxury single malt.”

www.themacallan.com

© 2020 The Macallan Distillers Limited, The Macallan ® Scotch Whisky, Imported by Edrington Americas, New York, NY. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

Burns Night: 6 Top Whiskies All Scotch Fans Must Try

Larkfire founder and whisky enthusiast James McIntosh reveals his favourite drams for Burns Night after visiting over 50 distilleries in the past four months

A whisky enthusiast has selected six of the best scotch whiskies to try ahead of Burns Night on January 25^th.

James McIntosh – co-founder of ‘wild water’ whisky mixer Larkfire – has compiled the list after visiting more than 50 distilleries in Scotland in the past four months.

James, who likes to add a splash of Larkfire to the whiskies recommended below, has put together tasting notes for those looking to try something different this Burns Night:

1)  The GlenAllachie (Cask Strength, 10-year-old):

We love The GlenAllachie distillery and the people there. It’s a definite must-visit on the whisky trail. This particular whisky has a nose of heather, honey, toffee apples, and a taste of vanilla with Caribbean spices. Billy Walker, co-founder of The GlenAllachie, is a legend in the industry, and won the Master Distiller/Master Blender of the Year at the Icons of Whisky Awards in December. Lovely drinking!

www.theglenallachie.com

2)  Glengoyne (18-year-old):

This is a picture-perfect distillery. We recommend the 18-year-old expression, which uses 50% first-fill sherry casks. It has a tremendous depth and mouth feel, with a taste not unlike a lightly spiced apple strudel.

www.glengoyne.com

3)  Bunnahabhain, Caorag:

Caorag – or ‘small-peat’ in Scottish Gaelic – is a hand-filled exclusive distillery release. A perfect balance with a sweet sherry influence and warming peaty flavour. It’s perfect for a dark January night.

www.bunnahabhain.com

4)  Scapa, The Orcadian:

This whisky offers a very sophisticated, honeyed flavour. It’s mellow and easy-drinking with a very delicate taste. Worth trying in a Mizuwari-style, served using Larkfire.

www.scapawhisky.com

5)  Aberfeldy (12-year-old):

A fantastic whisky with a longer fermentation period, encouraging a honeyed sweetness which works nicely with its little hint of spice. A beautiful Highland single malt, an absolute triumph.

www.dewars.com

6) Blair Athol (12-year-old):

A fantastic, rich, sweet Highland single malt, from the Flora & Fauna range. Notes include dried apricots and treacle toffee. We enjoyed drinking this at the unique Mash Tun tasting bar, which certainly adds to the experience.

www.malts.com/en-gb/visit-our-distilleries/blair-athol

James McIntosh travelled the length and breadth of Scotland, visiting countless distilleries ahead of the launch of award-winning ‘wild water’ Larkfire, which releases and enhances the depth of flavour of whisky.

Larkfire was launched after a study by Swedish chemists Björn Karlsson and Ran Friedman in the Scientific Reports journal helped prove that water boosts the concentration of flavour compounds at the surface of whisky, enhancing the flavour.

The wild water was recently named Best Premium/Adult Drink at the World Beverage Innovation Awards, and is sourced from the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

James said: “In Scotland there is incredible passion and care involved in making whisky, so if you enjoy a splash of water with your dram, it’s important not to undo any elements of the complex distilling and aging process by ensuring you’re adding the best possible water.

“People often add tap water to scotch, but the water has been recycled several times before it reaches your glass, and the added chlorine and fluoride interfere with the delicate whisky flavours. Bottled water also has a high mineral content which affects the aroma and taste.

“However, Larkfire is the perfect water to mix with whisky as it is pure and naturally soft with an exceptionally low mineral content thanks to the billion-year-old Lewisian gneiss rocks, a key feature of the geology of the Isle of Lewis.”

A percentage of Larkfire sales flow back into the islands via a partnership with The Stornoway Trust, a community landlord which looks after 69,000 acres of land on the Isle of Lewis, where the water is sourced.

Larkfire is the only known canned water for whisky and is now available for just £1 a can at www.larkfire.co.uk.

Black Butte Whiskey by Crater Lake Spirits and Deschutes Brewery Wins Best in Show at 2019 Sunset Magazine International Spirits Competition

Silver medals awarded for Crater Lake Reserve Dry Gin and Rock and Rye Whiskey

BEND, Ore. – Crater Lake Spirits, one of America’s pioneering craft distilleries, and Deschutes Brewery, America’s 10th largest craft brewery, have been awarded Best in Show for the 2019 release of their collaborative Black Butte Whiskey in the inaugural Sunset Magazine International Spirits Competition. The esteemed judging panel represented large volume buyers, influential media, successful distillers and other professionals from the spirits industry.

Black Butte Whiskey is a 94 proof American malt whiskey distilled from Deschutes’ popular Black Butte Porter beer. Aged three years in #4 char American oak barrels, the resulting whiskey retains the malty, chocolatey notes of Black Butte Porter and woody, earthy flavors from the oak. Bottles of the limited-edition 2019 batch are currently available while supplies last at the Crater Lake Spirits Tasting Room in downtown Bend, Oregon as well as retailers in select markets. Drinks by the glass are also available at the Deschutes Brewery pubs in Bend, Oregon, and Portland, Oregon, and the Portland International Airport pub. More information on availability can be found at www.craterlakespirits.com.

“We are thrilled by this win and to earn Best in Show against such a deep field of brands is really an honor,” said Alan Dietrich, Crater Lake Spirits CEO. “It means even more to be here with our partners at Deschutes Brewery. Both of our teams have worked tirelessly to redefine the traditional American whiskey category.”

“We’re honored to receive this recognition that speaks volumes to the uniqueness and complexity of this whiskey,” said Deschutes Brewery founder, Gary Fish. “The idea for this collaboration was born decades ago through conversations over beers and the result has generated incredible excitement from both craft beer lovers and spirits fans.”

In addition to the Best in Show accolade, Black Butte Whiskey was named Best American Craft Luxury Whiskey. Crater Lake Spirits also received silver medals for its Reserve Dry Gin and Rock & Rye Whiskey. Crater Lake Reserve Gin is 90 proof, new American style dry gin distilled using hand-picked central Oregon juniper berries, coriander, Seville orange peel, glazed orange peel and grapefruit. It is also gluten-free and kosher. Crater Lake Rock & Rye is a modern interpretation of a pre-prohibition classic crafted with rye whiskey, dark cherry, blood orange, and house-made bitters.

About Crater Lake Spirits

Founded in 1996, Crater Lake Spirits is one of the nation’s original craft distilleries and is one of the most awarded craft distilleries in the country. Flagship brands are traditional American style gins, vodkas and whiskies all produced at their distillery in Bend, Oregon. To learn more visit www.craterlakespirits.com.

About Deschutes Brewery

Deschutes Brewery, family and employee owned since 1988, is one of the quintessential beers of the Pacific Northwest. Founded on the guiding principles of true craftsmanship, ultimate quality, and extraordinary consumer experience, Deschutes Brewery is recognized for defining beers such as Black Butte Porter, Mirror Pond Pale Ale, Fresh Squeezed IPA and the non-stop release of pioneering small batch experimental and barrel-aged beers. Deschutes can be found at its brewpubs in Bend and Portland, Oregon, Tasting Rooms in Bend, and Roanoke, Virginia and at accounts in 31 states across the country. Visit Deschutes Brewery’s beer finder at https://www.deschutesbrewery.com/beer-finder/ to find a Deschutes beer near you. www.deschutesbrewery.com

SAMPLE EDINBURGH’S BIGGEST BOBBY BURNS COCKTAIL MENU WITH THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY 

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society are providing an endless selection of the classic cocktail available at 28 Queen Street, Edinburgh

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) are celebrating Burns Night by offering the capital’s largest Bobby Burns cocktail menu, using rare single malt whiskies from their 12 flavour profiles.

The iconic cocktail can be varied to perfectly suit any taste as it uses scotch whisky as its main ingredient, along with vermouth and a splash of liqueur, often Benedictine.

The Society’s catalogue of unique single cask single malt whiskies, which are all categorised by flavour, allow for the ultimate customisation of the drink. Whisky lovers can experiment with twelve twists on their tipple with flavour profiles ranging from Old & Dignified to Young & Spritely.

A lighter whisky makes for a refreshing drink with citrus notes, whereas a more matured malt will allow for a much sweeter Bobby Burns variation.

The sumptuous cocktail’s true origins remain unclear, with the first known recipes for it appearing in the 1930 ‘The Savoy Cocktail Book’ and initial popularity in New York, however it is now drunk to toast the famous bard’s birthday annually.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society will be running their ultimate Bobby Burns menu at their venue at 28 Queen Street, Edinburgh, from 22^nd Jan to 2^nd Feb.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was founded in 1983 through a spirit of friendship – a small group of people who used the discovery of single cask whisky as a reason to get together and enjoy each other’s company. The SMWS now has more than 26,000 members across the world.

https://www.smws.com/

f: https://www.facebook.com/thesmwsuk

i: https://www.instagram.com/smws_uk/

t: https://twitter.com/SMWSUK

yt: https://www.youtube.com/user/SMWSsilverscreen/videos

#SMWS 

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 see https://bit.ly/2uqKanT
• For more information about the Society, visit https://bit.ly/2HHiNyC
• Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk

Buffalo Trace Distillery Releases

Latest Edition of Stagg Jr.

Release is 13th Since Series Started in 2013

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Jan. 16, 2020) Kicking off the new year with a bang, Buffalo Trace Distillery has released the latest iteration in its Stagg Jr. franchise, with a proof of 128.4.  The 13^th release since the series started, this latest offering follows suit for all previous Stagg Jr. releases in that it is uncut, unfiltered, eight years old, and with a taste profile similar to its elder statesman, George T. Stagg.

Tasting notes describe this barrel proof whiskey as having a nose with loads of dark cherries, followed by honey.  On the palate, there are flavors of cream caramel mocha followed by cherries, giving it a full-bodied mouthfeel.  The finish is described as a long finish of toasted oak, dark chocolate, and cinnamon.

Introduced in 2013, Stagg Jr. quickly became a favorite of whiskey reviewers, winning five double gold medals, 12 gold medals, and various other accolades, such as “tried and true,” and “great value,” from competitions such as San Francisco World Spirits Competition, New York World Spirits Competition, World Whiskies Awards, and others.

The Stagg line is named after George T. Stagg is one of the legendary craftsmen of Buffalo Trace Distillery, who was responsible for building the most dominant American distillery of the 19^th century on the banks of the Kentucky River, now known as Buffalo Trace Distillery.

Stagg Jr. is released twice a year. The 128.4 batch is being released to retailers now.  The next release, number 14, will be late spring/early summer.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1773 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 35 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year by “Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible 2018” and its William Larue Weller and Thomas H. Handy Sazerac were named 2^nd and 3^rd finest whiskeys in the world, respectively, in the “Jim Murray Whiskey Bible 2020.”  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY HOST HAGGIS HUNT IN CELEBRATION OF NEW GLASGOW VENUE 

The Society will place 18 mini haggises around the city centre to mark Burns Night on Saturday 25^th January, in celebration of their new Members’ Room opening on Bath Street in March 2020 

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) are hosting a Glasgow-based haggis hunt on 25^th January (Burns Night) giving the lucky folk who discover the haggises a chance to win annual membership to the Society, SMWS bottles or tasting glasses.

To redeem the prizes, the hunters must take their stuffed haggis into The Good Spirits Co. on 23 Bath Street, Glasgow where they can redeem their coveted SMWS whisky prizes*.

The 18 haggises will be placed on and around Bath Street, where the new SMWS Members Room will open in March, as well as iconic Glasgow landmarks – George Square, Kelvingrove, Glasgow Cathedral, Barrowlands.

SMWS HAGGIS HUNT PRIZES AVAILABLE 

• 1 x Annual Membership to SMWS including Tasting box
• 3 x Annual Memberships to SMWS
• 2 x 70cl SMWS bottle
• 6 x 10cl SMWS bottle
• 6 x set of SMWS Tasting glass

The new venue will open in early March 2020, bringing the Society’s colourful whisky experiences to Glasgow for the first time in a Members’ Room, which follows on from already established SMWS locations in Edinburgh, including their home at The Vaults in Leith.

The Bath Street beautifully renovated location is in the heart of the city, just a few minutes’ walk from Glasgow Queen Street Station, and will be open every week from Tuesday until Sunday exclusively for SMWS members and their guests.

Venue Manager at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Glasgow Members’ Room, Calum Lawson said: “So many of our members are based in and around the wonderful city of Glasgow, so opening a Members’ Room here was the natural move.

“Our haggis hunt is a great way for members and non-members alike to come together and experience the fun of the Society. Who knows, we could have some brand-new members by the end of the weekend.“

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was founded in 1983 through a spirit of friendship – a small group of people who used the discovery of single cask whisky as a reason to get together and enjoy each other’s company. The SMWS now has more than 26,000 members across the world. 

*The prizes are available at The Good Spirits Co, 23 Bath Street until 31^st January 2020. 

Participants must be aged 18 or over to claim a prize. Proof of age will be required on collection of prizes. 

The prize won is randomly selected and cannot be exchanged or transferred. 

The prize cannot be exchanged for cash. 

https://www.smws.com/

f: https://www.facebook.com/thesmwsuk

i: https://www.instagram.com/smws_uk/

t: https://twitter.com/SMWSUK

yt: https://www.youtube.com/user/SMWSsilverscreen/videos

#SMWS 

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 see https://bit.ly/2uqKanT
• For more information about the Society, visit https://bit.ly/2HHiNyC
• Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk

British team crowned winners of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge 2019 – the ‘World’s Toughest Row’

• British team, Fortitude IV, have been crowned winners of this year’s Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge
• The four-man boat completed the 3000-mile Atlantic crossing in 32 days 12 hours and 35 minutes from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean
• The four long-time friends attest ‘some of the scariest moments of [our] life’ but ‘memories that will last a lifetime’
• The team witnessed incredible wildlife, as well as extreme challenges including capsizes (72 hours from shore), sores and 12 metre waves
• The winning team stormed into English Harbour at a phenomenal speed of 7 knots – more than double the average speed for the race
• This year, Talisker will enjoy a double-celebration, with one of the winning rowers, Ollie Palmer, also a Diageo employee
• The next boat is due to arrive into Antigua within 48 hours, with the remaining fleet following between 1-65 days behind
• Talisker are excited to announce their renewed sponsorship of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge for the next two years

14^th January, London: British four-boat, Fortitude IV have been crowned winners of this year’s Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge – the world’s toughest rowing race.

The four friends – Ollie Palmer, Tom Foley, Hugh Gillum and Max Breet – completed the 3000-mile rowing race in 32 days, 12 hours, 35 minutes, arriving into English Harbour, Antigua on 13 January 2020 – the first dry land the team have seen since departing from La Gomera in the Canary Islands, over one month ago, on 12^th December last year.

It was not an easy crossing for the winning team – this year’s weather conditions were tough and there was a close rivalry with Australian four-boat, Rowed Less Travelled, who are due to arrive in Antigua within the next 48 hours.

The team endured some of the strongest winds ever experienced by the race – causing waves up to 12 metres in height, broken oars, capsizing as well as sores and bruises.

But alongside extreme weather conditions, the participants have also experienced incredible wildlife sightings during their voyage – witnessing both highs and lows of mother nature during this elemental adventure. Whales, orca and repeat sightings of flying fish jumping over their boat and even hitting rowers’ heads – Fortitude IV reported a pod of dolphins and sea turtles circling around their boat on Christmas Day – such sightings lifting spirits on this epic journey. The natural wonders combined with the challenge of both mental and physical endurance result in a life-changing achievement – and affirm the rowers’ motivations for entering.

Elsewhere in the fleet, 9 boats are expected to finish within the next week, with some of the solo boats predicted to spend up to 8 more weeks at sea.

Talisker Whisky have sponsored the Atlantic Challenge for six years and share the same love for adventure and the world’s oceans. Talisker has a rich history with the sea – in 1830 Talisker Whisky was founded by the MacAskill brothers who rowed from Eigg to Skye to find the perfect spot for their distillery in Scotland. Just like the Talisker distillery, this row represents what it means to be made by the sea.

Talisker are excited to announce their continued sponsorship of the Atlantic Challenge and have renewed their partnership with the race for two years.

Speaking in Antigua after the race Ollie Palmer and Hugh Gillum of Fortitude IV said:

OP: “It feels amazing – words won’t be able to sum up how we feel, what we’ve just gone through and then seeing friends and family just now. The memories we have out there will last a lifetime. With all that time on the ocean, you definitely realise what is important to you. 

“The most amazing thing I saw was this incredible array of stars – all moving along in a line like a train – there must have been 200 or 300 stars. That for me was the most incredible thing I saw – along with lots of wildlife; dolphins, whales and turtles.”

HG: “Being on the ocean in quite an extreme context, strips back all the noise and makes you realise what is really important to you. You have a lot of time to think out there – with no distractions – and that inspires you in different ways. 

“It was an amazing thing to have done – we set off thinking it was a once in a lifetime thing and we can certainly maintain that position. The sum of all the parts is incredible – from seeing the shooting stars, to the arrival here tonight, and the support from all of our family and friends. There are tough times that we perhaps would wish away slightly but standing here now [in Antigua] we just think that the sum of all those parts is incredible.”

Natalia Montigny, Head of Global Marketing for Talisker commented: 

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Fortitude IV into English Harbour in Antigua as the winners of this year’s Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. I am personally proud of my dear friend and colleague, Ollie Palmer, for him and his teammates to have accomplished this unbelievable achievement, unthinkable to most. Talisker joins their family and friends in celebrating these Wild Spirits and know that their journey will inspire others to embrace their inner-adventurer and reconnect with nature and the things that matter most.”

CEO of Atlantic Campaigns, Carsten Heron Olsen said: 

“Our winning team – Fortitude lV with Tom, Ollie, Hugh and Max – have, from the beginning, done incredibly well. I salute them, and we are, as every year, blown away by our teams’ determination and capability to make what seems impossible, possible – rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. 

“The first team arriving into English Harbour, Antigua, is the greatest time of year. To see our rowers’ faces, their expressions, the way they have changed… as one of our rowers said in La Gomera ‘the journey is the start of a new beginning’ and it is.”

Notes  

TALISKER

The TALISKER distillery is battered by the elements on the windswept coast of the Isle of Skye and is one of the most remote distilleries in Scotland. It was founded in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill, and the distillery has been in near-constant operation ever since. Talisker 10 year old, Talisker Skye and Talisker Storm are widely distributed while Talisker 18 year old, Talisker Distiller’s Edition and Talisker Port Ruighe can be found in specialist stores. See www.malts.com and www.facebook.com/Talisker for more information. The TALISKER, TALISKER STORM, TALISKER PORT RUIGHE, TALISKER SKYE words and associated logos are trademarks. © DIAGEO 2018.  Talisker 10 year old and Talisker Storm were recently awarded Double Gold at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Awards. Talisker 10 year old was also awarded Best in Category. Talisker has a heritage rooted in adventure, in 1830 its founders the MacAskill brothers crossed the Atlantic Ocean from the Isle of Eigg to establish the TALISKER distillery on the shores of Loch Harport on the Isle of Skye. It has remained there ever since, producing consistently fine whiskies for almost 200 years.

As a whisky Made By The Sea, we want to do our part to protect our oceans, the most important ecosystem of our planet. We believe the power for change lies in the hands of the consumer and brands and as such, Talisker is currently undertaking initiatives to improve its environmental performance.  To date, the Talisker distillery has reduced energy by 12%, improved water efficiency by 22%, achieved zero waste to landfill and is constantly exploring new innovative uses of natural resources, including using sea water for cooling water which can help reduce demand for freshwater during warmer months on Skye. Talisker is equally committed to improving the sustainability of its packaging, including opportunities to reduce weight of materials, increase the recycled content and ultimately, to remove plastic almost entirely from its primary packaging by 2020.  The initiatives currently underway to improve Talisker’s environmental performance are aligned with Diageo’s industry leading environmental targets for 2020 which include halving its carbon emissions and improving its water efficiency by 50% by 2020.

TALISKER 10 YEARS OLD

Talisker 10 Years Old is much-loved with a smooth and smoky finish. Double distilled to create a rich, deep character embodying maritime characteristics of a coastal whisky, it is one of the most awarded Single Malt Scotch Whiskies in the world. This single malt has a sea-salty nose and famously rich and powerful peat-smoke flavour, leaving a warm peppery taste at the back of the mouth.

TALISKER SKYE

Talisker Skye pays homage to the Isle of Skye’s majestic landscape and coastline. The liquid has been made from a combination of hand selected toasted and refill American oak casks, that accentuate the sweet, citrus notes of Talisker. The result is a Talisker expression that opens with welcoming, smoky sweet notes, developing into deep maritime flavours and culminating in a powerful, spicy conclusion.

TALISKER STORM

Talisker Storm is crafted to enhance the distillery’s signature smoky and briny flavours, Talisker Storm displays characteristics of the tempestuous seas of its home on the Isle of Skye. It is spicy on the nose, with a hint of struck matches, brine and an oily explosion of pepper. On the palate a deep, nutty smokiness is followed by a hit of wood and brine, finishing with a smooth aftertaste of peaty burnt embers.

DIAGEO

Diageo is the world’s leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, beer and wine. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Baileys, Captain Morgan, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, with its products sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit us at Diageo.com. For our global resource that promotes responsible drinking through the sharing of best practice tools, information and initiatives, visit DRINKiQ.com.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

ATLANTIC CAMPAIGNS

Atlantic Campaigns is the official race organiser and the company behind the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.  Without Atlantic Campaigns the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge would not be possible. Working alongside some of the planet’s best ocean rowing advisors, Atlantic Campaigns make dreams a reality and challenges conquerable.  The main goal for Atlantic Campaigns is to make The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge the best organised rowing event in the world. For more information please visit – taliskerwhiskyatlanticchallenge.com

The full list of teams competing in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge 2019

TROPICAL TRIUMPH

Tomatin Distillery capture the flavours of south western France with the latest Warehouse 6 release: The 1977

In a bold move, the award-winning distillery has used a wine cask from Sauternes, France to mature its latest luxury expression. After a journey of over 1,100 miles and 42 years in waiting, The 1977 is one of Tomatin’s most exclusive releases ever. 

15^th January 2020: Tomatin, the renowned Highland distillery has today announced the newest expression from the Warehouse 6 collection: The 1977. This luxury whisky is the first in the distillery’s history to be matured in a Sauternes wine cask, resulting in an exceptional explosion of tropical flavours.

Tomatin’s whisky from the 1970s is known for its deep and complex fruit flavours. This unique flavour profile combines stunningly with the intense notes of coconut, mango and ginger that are a trademark of the Sauternes region of France. The delicate balance of flavours has resulted in one of Tomatin’s most exceptional spirits to date, yielding just 390 bottles priced at £3,000 each.

Graham Eunson, Distillery Operations Director at Tomatin, said: “Of the thousands of casks held at Tomatin, we’ve only ever acquired a handful of Sauternes wine casks. Using any one of them, even for one of our oldest and most valuable whiskies wasn’t a decision we made lightly; we knew from the start that it could be difficult to impart the flavours of the wine cask to the whisky without overwhelming it. Despite the immense challenge, I’m pleased to say that our team has produced a truly exceptional whisky that includes notes of apricot, peach, sweet honeysuckle and spice, all enticed from the Sauternes cask’s influence.” 

The 1977 expression has spent its life maturing in Warehouse 6, the traditional dunnage style warehouse where Tomatin’s most treasured casks are laid low above a cool earthen floor. Cared for by several generations of the distillery’s workforce, their dedication is perfectly matched by the complex meteorological conditions that surround the towns of Sauternes and Barsac to produce extraordinarily sweet wine. These fruity notes have influenced the whisky over time, resulting in a luxurious expression that dances across the palate for a gloriously long finish.

As with every Warehouse 6 release, each expression pays tribute to the Tomatin craftsmen that have been custodians of exceptional Scotch for generations. The 1977 is no different, and as with the previous luxury expressions in the series, (the 1971, 1972 & 1975), each of the 390 units is decanted into an exquisite hand blown Glencairn Crystal decanter with unique copper decoration. This luxury bottle is presented with two glasses (also Glencairn Crystal), a solid copper stopper, along with a numbered certificate detailing the remarkable journey of the whisky.

Bottled at natural cask strength (49% alc./vol.), each of the 390 units of The 1977 is priced at £3,000 and will be available from specialist retailers throughout the UK and the world.

Available from whisky specialists and online retailers including:

Harrods

The Whisky Exchange

Master of Malt

Notes: 

Tomatin Distillery has been producing and blending malt Scotch whisky since 1897. Over the last 50 years, the distillery has borne witness to vast change. At its peak in the 1970s, Tomatin was the largest distillery in the world operating 23 stills and producing 12 million litres of alcohol every year. Over the last decade, significant time has been invested in rediscovering the distillery, people and values, and in refining the business model to move away from the formerly lucrative bulk commodity market to now focus on Tomatin’s core range of single malts, The 1977 release is a part of Warehouse 6’s limited edition range, which includes the 1971, 1972 and the 1975.

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands (near Inverness) and is famous for its portfolio of soft and mellow whiskies, including a core range, a limited-edition range and a premium archive range (prices range from £35 – £10,000). In the last ten years, Tomatin has secured over 60 prestigious awards in a variety of categories, and in 2019 the distillery celebrated its most successful year ever at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition, securing seven Double Gold awards and four Gold awards.

About the The 1977

• Cask Number: 38863
• Cask Type: Sauternes Hogshead
• Strength: 49% alc./vol.
• Distillation Date: 23^rd September 1977
• Bottling Date: 30^th September 2019
• Number of bottles: 390

A BOLD NEW LOOK FOR POWERS IRISH WHISKEY 

Powers Irish Whiskey, which is made by Irish Distillers in Midleton Distillery, has unveiled a bold new bottle design for its range of premium Irish whiskeys. Debuting on core expression Powers Gold Label in the USA from March 2020, the dynamic new look is set to attract a new generation of drinkers to one of Ireland’s most loved whiskey brands.

The design features a new bottle shape which has been inspired by the distinctive pot still silhouette from the brand’s historical home at John’s Lane Distillery.  Another striking aspect of the new design is the label which is styled on the iconic Powers ‘diamond P’ – one of the first ever trademarks registered in Ireland and a link to the legacy of Powers and Irish whiskey history all over Ireland. Each whiskey in the Powers range is presented with a label in a different colour to bring to life its unique story; Powers Gold Label in red, an homage to the original red Powers diamond marque; Powers Three Swallow in blue, a nod to the feathers of the graceful bird; and Powers John’s Lane Release in metallic ink, to reflect the industrial innovation that the Powers family demonstrated at the original distillery established in 1791 on John’s Lane, Dublin.

Carol Quinn, Archivist at Irish Distillers explains, “Powers sense of identity has always focused on the diamond P; that became very clear to me as I worked my way through the historical archive. The diamond P was everywhere; on the casks, stationary, on bills and receipts, emblazoned on everything that left the distillery, and notably on the wonderful Powers mirrors that still hang in Ireland’s pubs today.  Workers at the old John’s Lane distillery even took to wearing a diamond P pin on their lapel, such was their pride to be part of the Powers family.  For me it’s wonderful to see the diamond P front and centre on this new label, symbolising all the history of this great whiskey since 1791.”

Following the launch of the new-look Powers Gold Label in March 2020, the new design will be introduced across Powers Three Swallow and Powers John’s Lane from mid-2020 in the USA and the rest of the world  from late-2020. In Ireland, Powers Three Swallow and Powers John’s Lane will be released in March 2020, with Powers Gold Label to be reviewed in due course.

Conor McQuaid, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers commented: “Powers has been famous for its bold taste profile and character since the family distillery was established in 1791. We are excited to introduce this new look to the world and inspire a new generation with the unique history and personality of Powers. At Irish Distillers, we have pride in Powers as one of the world’s leading Irish whiskeys and we welcome this dynamic new chapter for the brand as we seek to continue the Irish whiskey renaissance around the world.”

New packaging for Powers Irish Whiskey underpins recent innovation for the brand as it seeks to reach and inspire whiskey drinkers including; the release of Powers Old Fashioned, the brand’s first ever pre-mixed classic cocktail; and the Powers Quarter; a collaboration between six Dublin bars to tell the story of Powers and its illustrious Dublin history.

Notes

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 fastest-growing Irish whiskey, experiencing 30 years of consecutive growth and hitting sales of 7.7m 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 €250m to double our production at Midleton Distillery and bottling capacity at Fox and Geese in Dublin 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.