Chef Ben Tish teams up with Glen Moray for Cask Adventures

Glen Moray single malt Scotch whisky has today (23^rd July) announced a partnership with the award-winning chef and food writer Ben Tish, to celebrate the origins of some of its most popular cask finishes.

The new ‘Cask Stories’ campaign will dive into the world of wood to explore the importance of cask flavour and character in creating Glen Moray’s Port, Sherry, Madeira and Fired Oak expressions.

Ben, who is the Culinary Director of London’s Norma Restaurant and Stafford Hotel, has a long held passion for the food and flavours of Mediterranean and Moorish regions.

He has created a delicious selection of easy to make tapas dishes and cocktails – inspired by each Glen Moray whisky, the cask it is finished in and his extensive travels exploring the culinary traditions of Porto, Jerez and Madeira. And as a barbecue expert, Ben has also created an option to match the smoky, charred flavours of Glen Moray’s Fired Oak expression.

Food and drink fans will be taken on a journey through Glen Moray’s ‘cask hotspots’, as Ben shares stories of his favourite bars, restaurants and dining memories, and the creative spark behind each tapas dish and drink.

Ben’s long standing head sommelier Julien Hennebelle has collaborated with him to create four long, refreshing Glen Moray cocktails – perfect for summer drinking and packed with flavour to pair perfectly with each tapas dish.

Ben and the Glen Moray team will be sharing stories, recipes, cocktails ideas and a series of films over the summer, with Instagram live events planned for August. Ben commented: ‘I’m really excited to be working with Glen Moray and developing Mediterranean inspired recipes to match these brilliant whiskies. I’ve loved Mediterranean food for years and my latest book Moorish focuses on the regions that are covered in the Elgin cask series. The flavours of the whisky are clear and fresh – perfect for my style and a pleasure to work with. Some great summery cocktails too, from our bar man and sommelier Julien.’

Glen Moray’s UK Sales Director Claire Baigrie added: ‘Glen Moray is one of the most adventurous malt whiskies available and we have always pushed the boundaries when it comes to the casks we use for maturation. Our new partnership with Ben is a way to really explore and celebrate these flavours, and the wonderful results of our new make spirit meeting seasoned casks from different parts of the world. Ben is an absolute expert in the places where our casks originate and we are thrilled to have him tell our cask stories to food and drink lovers. This is an invitation to come with us on a journey to learn more about flavour and to enjoy whisky in a way that really breaks down the barriers of how and when single malt whisky should be enjoyed. At a time when summer holidays to these regions are limited, we hope Glen Moray fans will enjoy the ride!’

Port Cask Finish

Mussels with cinnamon, lemon, marjoram, bay and migas. Lightly steamed mussels with fresh, spicy and citrusy flavours to complement the Port Cask whisky’s notes – topped with crispy ‘migas’ breadcrumbs which are a Portuguese staple. 

The Lossimonatta: a light, refreshing blend of Port Cask Finish, the juice of red berries, cherry liqueur and lemonade, served over ice and inspired by the River Lossie running next to the Glen Moray Distillery.

Cumin rubbed grilled pork pinchos with almond alioliFired Oak

A sweet, smokey barbecued street food that works with the deep charred flavours of Fired Oak whisky

The Elgin Fizz: a refreshing summer combination of smoky Glen Moray Fired Oak, spicy ginger liqueur and sweet sparkling apple juice, served over ice. 

Roasted peaches with orange flower honey, mascarpone, pistachios

Madeira Cask

Madeira has the most wonderful peach varieties, and the sweet caramelised peach juices and aromatic honey are a great match for the Madeira cask’s flavours.

The Whisky Rose Julep: an exotic, full-flavoured combination of Madeira matured whisky, rose syrup and fresh mint, served over ice.

The combination of rich, salty cheese and sweet honey works perfectly with the Sherry Cask’s notes. Reminiscent of the fried flowers served in every Spanish tapas bar over the summer months.Fried courgette flowers, goats cheese and honey

The Oloroso Breeze. A long, delicious Mediterranean style drink, mixing Glen Moray Sherry Cask Finish, sherry vermouth and sparkling San Pellegrino Bitter – served with a slice of orange. 

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BEN TISH                                                                                                       

Ben Tish is the Culinary Director of London’s Norma Restaurant and the Stafford Hotel, and is established as cooking at the forefront of the modern tapas scene. At the Stafford Ben oversees the hotel’s food offering including the Game Bird restaurant, the American bar and private dining. In September 2019 he opened the critically-acclaimed Norma – a Sicilian-Moorish influenced restaurant on London’s Charlotte Street featuring a bespoke raw bar serving Sicilian style crudos,

Classically trained with over 20 years’ experience, Ben spent his formative career working with Michelin starred chefs such as Jason Atherton and Stephen Terry at various ground breaking London restaurants. He went on to head up his own operations at the Italian restaurant Al Duca in St James, London, and the Crinan Hotel in the West Highlands. More recently he was Chef Director and Partner of the Salt Yard Group – a group of 5 highly-acclaimed modern Spanish / Italian restaurants in Central London.

Ben is also an accomplished and award winning food writer with three published cook books. Moorish, his last book, was published in April 2019 and was named cook book of the year in the Times Magazine. Ben will publish his fourth book SICILA in Summer 2021. He appears regularly on TV including Saturday Kitchen, Sunday Brunch, and Masterchef and writes for Delicious, The Guardian, The Telegraph, The Times, Noble Rot, Restaurant Magazine, Chef Magazine, and other publications.

GLEN MORAY

Glen Moray is one of Scotland’s best loved single malt whiskies. It has been crafted since 1897 in the ancient town of Elgin, the capital of the Speyside whisky region, on what was once the Elgin West Brewery site on the banks of the River Lossie. Pure waters from the river, locally malted barley, distillation in traditional copper stills and maturation in American ex-bourbon casks combine to give the whisky its smooth, well-balanced, classic Speyside character. Glen Moray has always been a place where curiosity about flavour and cask maturation has been encouraged. Records dating back to the early days show new make spirit maturing in a wide variety of different casks – a highly unusual practice at this time. A passion for experimentation and a deep knowledge of wood have been passed down through generations of Glen Moray distillers. The result is today’s exceptional and extensive range of whiskies, offering a flavour and style to suit all tastes. Glen Moray is the 5th biggest malt whisky brand by volume in the UK and is growing in international markets.

Jura Whisky launches smooth and vibrant Sherry Cask 12 Years Old exclusive to Asian market 

Jura Whisky has released a new sherry finished 12 Years Old single malt Asia exclusive launching in Taiwan. Jura 12 Years Old Sherry Cask uses only unpeated spirit finished using the finest Spanish Sherry casks to deliver a smooth, well rounded and rich whisky for the Asian market.

The vibrant new release has been created exclusively for the Taiwanese market and becomes the latest addition to Jura’s permanent Signature Series.

The latest release from the tiny island community distillery is vibrant and full of character, like the islanders who make it. It has been carefully distilled using Jura’s exceptionally tall stills and matured in American White Oak ex-bourbon barrels before being finished exclusively in the finest hand selected aged Oloroso sherry casks from Jerez, Spain.

This rich, fruity and vibrant 12 year old single malt unites the heart of Jura with the soul of Spain to create a single malt celebrating the classic Jura character. With added depth from its Sherry finish, the lively whisky perfectly captures the warmest of Jura welcomes, enhanced by the flair of a Spanish Sherry finish, promising life in every drop.

Gregg Glass, Whisky Maker & Blender at Whyte & Mackay, commented: “In bringing together the unique passion and influence of Jura, with the flair and vibrancy of our Sherry making partners of Jerez, this 12 Years Old showcases a richly dark and fruity character for the Asian market.  The new release has a sweet warmth with rich flavours and fruity notes which we know will appeal to those looking to experience a classic Jura single malt together.

The classic style of Jura evokes the early years of modern distillation at the distillery following its reopening in 1963; a time when our tall stills and unpeated malt created a character full of fruit and vibrancy. It is this distinctive style which we wanted to bring to the Taiwanese market on an exclusive basis, demonstrating our commitment to introducing innovative new whiskies in Asia.”

Jura 12 Years Old Sherry Cask is defined by plums and fresh fruit, with toffee, sweet spices and underlying citrus notes; capturing both Jura and Spain perfectly.  Sherry soaked raisins and dark toffee merge with fig, mango, grilled banana and Seville orange zest. These beautifully merge and develop into sweet cassia bark and bergamot, with coffee and liquorice notes to finish, creating a vibrant yet warming flavour.

Each bottle of Jura Whisky is a celebration of its island home and embodies the passion of those who make it. This remote Scottish island provides the canvas from which these dedicated islanders take their inspiration and the distillery provides the means by to bring this to life through whisky making.

Jura 12 Years Old Sherry Cask Single Malt Whisky is available throughout Taiwan priced at RSP 1050 NT$.

Notes

About Jura:

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

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

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

Product information:

Jura 12 Years Old Sherry Cask

ABV: 40%

Available in 70cl

Colour :

Rich antique amber

Nose :  

Warm honey and vanilla to start, evolving to rich fruit and toffee. A perfect combination of rich brioche, apricot, chocolate and almond appear.

Reminiscent aromas of Scottish cask warehouses combine with classic Bodegas full of beautifully aging sherries.

Taste : 

Richly dark, with sweet, ripe plum flavours lead to sweet spices that are enhanced by layers of citrus.

Sherry soaked raisins and dark toffee merge with fig, mango, grilled banana and Seville orange zest. These beautifully merge and develop into sweet cassia bark, bergamot with coffee and liquorice notes to finish, creating a vibrant yet warming flavour.

Rich, fruity and vibrant, Jura 12 Years Old Sherry Cask celebrates the shared passion and dedication of two cultures; united by a passion for their craft.

Eagle Rare Bourbon Earns Four First Place Medals

at International Whisky Competition 2020

Eight Buffalo Trace Distillery Whiskies Honored 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (July 14, 2020) Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey swept the bourbon categories at the 2020 International Whisky Competition, claiming four first place medals. With 93 points, Eagle Rare was named Best American Whiskey, Best Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Best Bourbon Whiskey and Best Kentucky Whiskey.

In the Best Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey category, Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel took second place with 89.7 points and Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel received third place with 89.5 points.

With 89.9 points, Weller Full Proof was named the third place recipient for Best Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey.

Four other bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery also performed well:

• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch – 91.6 Points
• Weller 12 Year Old – 91.1 Points
• Weller Antique – 91 Points
• Weller C.Y.P.B. – 90.5 Points

The International Whisky Competition launched in 2010 with a vision of creating a true competition, offering just three medals per category, like the Olympics. The IWC brings the best whiskies from around the world to be tasted and rated by a professional tasting panel. Complete results for the 2020 International Whisky Competition can be found at https://www.whiskycompetition.com/2020-results.

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

SPIRIT WORKS DISTILLERY NAMED “2020 DISTILLERY OF THE YEAR”

American Distilling Institute (ADI) Awards Spirit Works distillery with Prestigious Bubble Cap Award for Excellence, Innovation and Community Leadership

(Sebastopol, CA, July 14, 2020) – Spirit Works Distillery has been named “2020 Distillery of the Year” by the American Distilling Institute (ADI), winning its prestigious national Bubble Cap Award.

Established by ADI in 2010, when the industry reached 400 craft distilleries, the annual Bubble Cap Award for “Distillery of the Year” (named for a device utilized in distillation) is given to “the one distillery of the year that represents the very best in the world of artisan distilling: excellence in quality of spirits, innovation, transparency, authenticity of approach, sustained company growth, community involvement, and embodying the ethos of craft.”  By ADI’s definition, a craft distillery must produce less than 100,000 proof gallons per year, be independently owned and operated, and must actually distill their own products.

“Timo and I are truly blown away to receive this national award recognizing Spirit Works Distillery as this year’s leader in the growing craft spirits industry,” stated Ashby Marshall, Co-owner, Founding Distiller, Brand Director at Spirit Works. “We strive every day to maintain our principles surrounding environmental stewardship, transparency in our grain-to-glass process, commitment to creating high-quality spirits, fostering local community and industry relationships, and creating a safe and supportive working atmosphere for our incredible team here. This acknowledgment is a fantastic reinforcement from our industry peers that we are on the right path.”

Spirit Works Distillery is highly respected as one of California’s first grain-to-glass craft distilleries, handcrafting an array of high quality spirits in the heart of Sonoma wine country, including Vodka, Gin, Sloe Gin, Barrel Gin, Navy Strength Gin, Straight Wheat and Rye Whiskeys and most recently, a Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey. As the only producers of traditional Sloe Gin in the U.S  (a gin-based liqueur traditionally made in the UK using tart sloe berries, a tiny relative of the plum), for which it has garnered two national Good Food Awards since 2018, the team at Spirit Works Distillery consistently leads with diligence, creativity, and intention.

“As a distillery deeply committed to quality and innovation in making and serving the best grain-to-glass spirits in the world, Spirit Works continues to raise the bar,” said Erik Owens, President of the American Distilling Institute. “But the Bubble Cap award isn’t just about great spirits: it’s about celebrating distilleries that contribute to the craft community. In this area, Spirit Works is also a leader: women-lead, family-run, inclusive, diverse, accepting and supportive of everyone in the community. Ashby and Timo’s previous lives were in environmental justice, and they brought that philosophy to their new endeavor. They not only wanted to make spirits, but wanted to make sure everything they did was giving back to the process. Every decision was looked at from multiple angles, and the decisions they made had to reflect their goal of trying to make the world a better place by their participation in it. We acknowledge and celebrate that leadership!”

ABOUT SPIRIT WORKS

Founded in the heart of Sonoma County, California in 2012 by husband and wife team Timo and Ashby Marshall, Spirit Works Distillery is a craft spirits producer which handcrafts Straight Wheat and Rye Whiskeys and a new Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey onsite using the grain-to-glass method of milling, mashing, fermenting and then distilling organic grains onsite. Timo and Ashby bring years of environmental stewardship to every process and remain one of the few female-lead distilling teams in the US.

ABOUT AMERICAN DISTILLING INSTITUTE (ADI) The American Distilling Institute is the oldest and largest organization of small-batch, independently-owned distillers in the United States. Founded in 2003, the organization has grown from a few dozen distillers to more than 1,000 paid members. Each year they support the industry in fostering relationships on their forums, recognizing top spirits with their annual spirits competition, and providing educational conferences.

10th Street Distillery Releases Distiller’s Cut Peated Single Malt — Find 10th Street’s boldest whisky yet at California retailers

San Jose, CA (July 13, 2020) — San Jose’s 10th Street Distillery announces the release of their Distiller’s Cut, an exceptional peated single malt whisky that has already distinguished itself by winning Gold at the Whiskeys of the World competition.

The first release of 1000 cases is available now throughout California at all Total Wine & More stores; The Whisky Shop in San Francisco; Ledger’s Liquor in Berkeley; Willibee’s in Petaluma; and Southgate Liquors in San Jose among others. Visit retailers’ web sites for hours and availability.

It is double distilled using all copper pot stills, and aged in first-fill bourbon barrels, just like the Distillery’s flagship peated single malt; however, the unique Distiller’s Cuts during distillation create a bolder and smokier, yet smooth single malt, designed to appeal to malt and peat lovers This expertly crafted whisky has hints of citrus and berry with strong woody, earthy, and smoky statements.

An independent review by the Whisk(e)y Apostle says, “If you’re a whiskey geek and looking to try something unique…, I’d definitely look to try this one.”

10th Street Distillery combines old-world tradition and modern ingenuity to make super-premium small-batch whiskies at San Jose’s first craft distillery. In just two years since opening, 10th Street has earned significant industry recognition for its Peated Single Malt, including Best in Class Gold at the 2019 Whiskies of the World and Double Gold at the 2019 N.Y. World Spirits Competition. Its STR Single Malt recently won a Double Gold at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits competition.  The award for Distiller’s Cut further establishes 10th Street’s reputation as a top-shelf American maker of exceptional single malts.

As co-founder Virag Saksena explained to the East Bay Express, custom Scottish peat and local microflora interact with water from the Sierra Nevada snowmelt and grains to create “a complex sourdough flavor” that “lends a unique Bay Area terroir.” The hot San Jose weather imparts its own unique aging properties.

DISTILLER’S CUT TASTING NOTES

Nose: Sour nose with bright citrus, vanilla, and peat; heavy mesquite smoke

Color: Golden

Palate: Sweet high notes of blackberry, brown sugar, honey, and molasses; bran cereal, burning chocolate.

Finish: Smooth and lingering on the sides and back of the tongue

ABV: 44%

MSRP: $65

About 10th Street Distillery:

San Jose’s first craft distillery, 10th Street Distillery was founded by two engineers with just one objective – creating world-class whiskies. A grain-to-glass distillery, it reinterprets time-honored traditions using modern techniques and engineering ingenuity to create its award-winning products. Their first product is a Peated Single Malt Whisky, a new American classic that respects tradition, but is not afraid to forge a new path.

Vintage release champions Glenmorangie’s experimental ways 

– Intensely creamy limited edition is oldest whisky aged in Distillery’s bespoke casks –

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers go to extraordinary lengths on their quest for delicious single malt. Luscious and creamy, Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996 showcases the wondrous tastes their methods bring. Aged 23 years, this limited edition is the oldest whisky matured in their bespoke casks, dreamed up to reveal new levels of creaminess in Glenmorangie.

Years before this intensely rounded single malt was created, Glenmorangie’s whisky makers began to imagine the perfect casks in which to age their signature spirit. Distilled in Scotland’s tallest stills, with necks as tall as a giraffe, it is uniquely delicate and ripe for experimentation. Believing that wood could unlock new depths of flavour in this spirit, they vowed to create the casks of their dreams.

So began an epic journey, which led those Highland whisky makers to the forests of Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, in the U.S. There, where trees grow slower, they handpicked American white oaks that would naturally bring more creaminess to Glenmorangie. Then, with astonishing attention to detail, they carefully air dried the oak, handcrafted it into casks made to their exact specifications, and seasoned it with select bourbon, to bring the wood to its best. Finally, by 1996, some of the first bespoke casks were ready. Filling them with Glenmorangie’s spirit, they left time to do its work.

Each year since, under Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation, Glenmorangie has crafted these bespoke casks in small numbers, creating two coveted releases of the limited edition Glenmorangie Astar, and the heart of Glenmorangie Original. Meanwhile, the spirit of 1996 lay undisturbed, gaining even deeper, even more rounded flavours. Finally, Dr Bill was inspired to celebrate these casks, and their longest maturation yet, in a whisky with an unique creamy depth and fruity, floral intensity. Aged entirely in first-fill casks, it’s the sixth release in the Bond House No. 1 Collection.

Dr Bill said: “Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996 wonderfully demonstrates how we can bring our most extraordinary dreams to life. The oldest whisky we have ever aged in our bespoke casks, its fresh, floral aromas and luxuriously creamy tastes are gloriously enhanced by age. A delicious step on from Glenmorangie Astar, this limited edition will be adored by whisky lovers old and new.”

The whiskies of Glenmorangie’s Bond House No. 1 vintage series are created from some of the Distillery’s most prized parcels of aged whisky, for particularly delicious results. The series is named after the largest of Glenmorangie’s 19^th century Bonded Warehouses. For generations, Warehouse No. 1 was home to casks of maturing spirit until in 1990, it was transformed into a majestic new still house. Today, Bonded Warehouse No. 1 is the heart of the Distillery’s wondrous whisky creation.

Glenmorangie Grand Vintage 1996 will be available in the UK from whisky specialists and fine wine merchants from the end of July, RRP: £635.

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NOTES TO EDITORS: 

Tasting Notes:

Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996 is bottled at 43% ABV.

Colour: Bright sunburst gold

Nose: Fresh, floral and perfumed, with hints of roses, carnations, jasmine and a curious herbal note like coriander. Luscious mandarin orange and pear follow, with a beautiful candy sweetness, reminiscent of mixed fruit jellies. A splash of water releases even more floral notes of carnation and geranium, along with some soft, buttery vanilla.

Taste: A zesty, citrus mouthfeel leads into a powerful burst of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, kept under control by the thread of soft, sweet vanilla and fudge. The finesse for a whisky of this age is quite remarkable, with gentle spices, such as ginger and sweet chilli and subtle oaky notes.

Finish: Delicate and dancing with almonds, pear and cake mix. 

RRP & stockists:

Available from whisky specialists and fine wine merchants from the end of July, RRP £635.

About the Bond House No.1 Collection:

The Bond House No.1 Collection’s vintage expressions are all exceptionally fine and smooth. The series celebrates Glenmorangie’s most prestigious aged whiskies with particularly delicious results. It is named after Bonded Warehouse No. 1 – the largest of Glenmorangie’s traditional 19^th-century warehouses – transformed into the Distillery’s majestic new still house in 1990. The Bond House No. 1 whiskies have all been lauded at prestigious industry competitions for their delicious tastes:

• Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1990, released in 2016, won first place at the International Whisky Competition (IWC), in the category Single Malt Whisky (Highland) and gold medals at the International Wine and Spirits Competition and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1989, released in 2018, was rewarded with a gold award at the International Spirits Challenge. At the IWC, it won Best Single Malt Scotch 25 Years and Over.

Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1993, released exclusively in Travel Retail in 2018, was awarded gold at the 2018 Global Travel Retail Spirits Masters.

• Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1991, released in 2019, was named Whisky of the Year by the IWC in 2019.
• Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1995, released exclusively in Travel Retail in 2020, scored 89 points out of 100 in world whisky expert Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2020.

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie’s whisky makers use endless imagination and five key ingredients – wood, water, barley, yeast and time – to dream up delicious single malt whiskies. Known as the Distillers of Tain, they’ve been honing their craft for more than 175 years. In Scotland’s tallest stills, whose necks are as high as a giraffe, they produce a light and fruity spirit, ripe for experimentation. Led by Director of Whisky Creation Dr Bill Lumsden, this crackerjack crew are on a mission to bring new flavours and possibilities to the world of single malt.

About Dr Bill Lumsden:

Dr Bill Lumsden’s favourite phrase is “What if?”. And throughout his 25 years with Glenmorangie, the Distillery’s Creative Director has challenged himself and his team to take whatever captures their imaginations and turn it into whisky – be that a cup of coffee (Glenmorangie Signet), a long balmy day in Madeira (Glenmorangie Bacalta), a beautiful barley field by the Distillery (Glenmorangie Allta) and more. With a PhD in biochemistry and decades of experience, Dr Bill has all the skills needed to bring these ideas to life. Already, he has earned the admiration of his peers many times over. For instance, he is a new entry in the Icons of Whisky Hall of Fame. He has won the International Whisky Competition’s award for Master Distiller of the Year more times than anyone else. And he has been named Master Blender/Distiller of the Year by the International Spirits Challenge twice.

About Glenmorangie’s bespoke casks:

To create the perfect casks for its lighter spirit, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators handpick slow-growth American white oak trees from the Ozark Mountains, in Missouri. These oaks tend to grow on north-facing slopes, where there is less light, more shade, and less moisture in the soil. As a result, their wood has a particularly tight-grained structure, with higher concentrations of the naturally-occurring compounds which bring the whisky silky, creamy textures and flavours of vanilla, coconut, almond and honey. The slow-growth trees which Glenmorangie selects have an abundance of early wood (formed from spring growth). Although late wood (grown in summer and autumn) typically makes up most of a tree, early wood is more porous. And so, it allows more contact between spirit and wood, bringing more wood flavours to the whisky. When cut into staves, the wood is air-seasoned for about two years. This breaks down the internal structure of the wood to release softer, sweeter flavours than the more bitter, astringent notes that can come with quicker kiln drying. The staves are then handcrafted into casks, lightly toasted and heavily charred to Dr Bill’s precise specifications, and filled with bourbon for at least four years, for seasoning. Only then, are the casks ready to make the journey to the Glenmorangie Distillery, where they bring a sweeter, richer, smoother, more rounded profile to the whisky. Glenmorangie began its search for the perfect wood in the mid-1980s, later developing its bespoke casks programme. These casks have been used to create two limited releases of the sought-after Glenmorangie Astar. They also form the heart of the Distillery’s signature whisky Glenmorangie The Original.

About Glenmorangie Astar:

In 2008, Glenmorangie created The Astar (Scots Gaelic for “journey”). Entirely matured in bespoke oak casks this limited whisky was much coveted for its smooth, creamy depths. Dr Bill longed to revisit The Astar’s unique character, but as Glenmorangie’s bespoke casks are rare, it took almost a decade for this whisky to return. In 2017 Glenmorangie revealed a second limited-edition release, bringing a new richness and complexity to The Astar’s celebrated flavours. 

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers
savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines
for alcohol consumption.

FETTERCAIRN DISTILLERY ADDS 22 YEARS OLD TO PORTFOLIO

The new addition celebrates the distillery’s distinctive tropical flavour profile and sees core range expand to six expressions

Fettercairn Distillery has announced a further permanent addition to its core range of Highland single malt whiskies, Fettercairn 22 Years Old, following the recent release of its new 16 Years Old. The latest addition now means a considerably bolstered core offering, from four to six whiskies, ranging from 12 to 50 Years Old.

Matured for 22 years in first fill American ex-bourbon casks, this single malt showcases the signature tropical character derived from the ingenuous copper cooling ring distillation process unique to Fettercairn, setting it apart from other single malt distilleries by drenching the stills in crystal clear mountain water to ensure only the purest vapours rise to create the new make spirit.

Laid down in 1996, this majestic spirit was recasked 13 years later in specially selected distillery run bourbon barrels to optimise its distinctive character development.

Kirsteen Beeston, Head of International Malts at Whyte and Mackay, said, “In adding a further expression to the core range, we have significantly enhanced the flavour experience on offer at Fettercairn.  We’ve also expanded consumer choice and demonstrated the exceptional quality of our aged stock at Fettercairn.  Growing from four to six expressions reflects feedback we have received on the core range and the clear need to bridge the gap between the 12 and 28 Years Old. We are working hard to create a range of whiskies which honour the approach at Fettercairn, but also provide whisky drinkers with single malts showcasing the special character which sits at its heart.”

Bottled at a high strength of 47% ABV, Fettercairn 22 Years Old is amber gold in colour with a nose defined by banana, citrus fruit and plum combined with raisin, fig and gingerbread.  The palate is tantalised with spiced pear, caramelised orange and coffee, tempered by liquorice which gives way to Morello cherry, plum and treacle.  The release is offered with natural colour and is non-chill filtered.

From today, Fettercairn 22 Years Old is available exclusively in the UK from The Whisky Shop www.whiskyshop.com until the end of July, thereafter via global whisky specialists, at an RSP of £200.

www.fettercairnwhisky.com

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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. 

Product Information:

Fettercairn 22 Years Old

ABV: 47%

70cl

Colour: Amber gold

Nose: Banana, citrus fruit and plum, combines with raisin, fig and ginger bread

Finish: Spiced pear, caramelised orange and coffee, tempered by liquorice that then makes way to morello cherry, plum and treacle

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).

#ardbeg #scotch #smokesessions #djbbq #bbq 

ARDBEG AND DJ BBQ TURN UP THE HEAT THIS SUMMER TO LAUNCH

ARDBEG SMOKE SESSIONS

 Ardbeg team up with DJ BBQ to celebrate big, smoky flavours

with online series and Insta-grill-along

ISLAY, UK – 21 JULY 2020 – Ardbeg, the world-renowned Islay Distillery, is joining forces with DJ BBQ this summer to bring big, smoky flavours to backyard barbecues around the globe.

Fuelled by their shared obsession with smoke, Ardbeg has partnered with the ‘catertainment’ star and certified pitmaster to create The Smoke Sessions – an online series which offers a guide to mouthwatering barbecue serves, and smoky whisky cocktails.

Giving Ardbeggians everywhere the chance to take their BBQ to the next level, The Smoke Sessions will see DJ BBQ (aka Christian Stevenson) apply the fundamental Laws of Smoke, Wood & Heat to perfect BBQ dishes and drinks created using Ardbeg Ten, An Oa and Wee Beastie. 

Ardbeg and DJ BBQ will kick off the series this July by hosting the UK’s smokiest virtual barbeque on Instagram Live. The grill guru will share one of his favourite recipes and show off his expert cocktail making skills, whilst at the same time spinning the decks. Joining in the fun will be Brendan McCarron, the Distillery’s Head of Maturing Whisky Stocks.

DJ BBQ commented: “My smoky barbeque recipes share so many characteristics with the flavours of Ardbeg whisky, and they complement each other perfectly. The laws of wood, heat and smoke are so important to barbecue and single malt alike, and once mastered, you’ll become a barbeque boss!

“The taste of braided beef fillet alongside an Ardbeg Ten Old Fashioned is just awesome, and a sip of hot Wee Beastie punch with a slow smoked pork shoulder is unrivalled!”.

“Remember, patience is key to maximise that wonderful flame-grilled flavour, it’s only done when it’s done. The Ardbeg Smoke Sessions series will show you that it’s easy to go beyond the realms of basic barbecue burgers with a little creativity and a ton of smoky goodness!”

Grillers and whisky lovers can tune in to Ardbeg’s Instagram Live on Friday 24 July at 8pm BST to watch DJ BBQ kick off Ardbeg Smoke Sessions with the UK’s smokiest virtual BBQ.

Cocktail fans will also be able to order DJ BBQ’s Maple and Bacon Old Fashioned for delivery across the UK, via Mothership on the Drinks At Home platform, for a limited period from 21 July 2020.

The Ardbeg Smoke Sessions will launch on Ardbeg’s social channels (YouTube, Instagram & Facebook) from 21 July 2020. Links to watch each episode are available below: 

Law of Heat – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCib5a1KcyU

Law of Smoke – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJp01otyQg0

Law of Wood – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY47ta_lsu4

Follow Us On

Website: www.ardbeg.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg

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

DJ BBQ: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djbbq/

DJ BBQ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/djbbq

DJ BBQ Twitter: https://twitter.com/dj_bbq

Tag us: #Ardbeg 

NOTES 

BBQ FOOD & COCKTAIL RECIPES 

DJ BBQ has created the following dishes and serves, using the Ardbeg range: 

• 18-Hour Whisky-Smoked Pulled Pork with Ardbeg Wee Beastie Hot Apple Cider
• Coal-Roasted Beef Plait with Ardbeg Ten Maple & Bacon Old Fashioned
• Whisky Planked, Pit-Smoked Salmon with Ardbeg An Oa Bloody Mary 

Full recipes available on request. 

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

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.

Limestone Branch Distillery Launches 2020 Edition of Yellowstone® Limited Edition

This year’s edition also highlights a new upgraded look for the brand 

(Lebanon, Ky.) July 15, 2020 – The 2020 edition of Yellowstone® Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon will be on shelves in September, just in time for National Bourbon Heritage Month. This year’s edition features a seven-year-old straight bourbon finished in French Armagnac barrels. The new release brings a soft leather aroma with hints of honeydew melon, vanilla notes on the palate with hints of burnt orange and dried plum. The finish is toasted coconut with lingering oak making for a well-rounded, deeply satisfying bourbon.

“When I began working on this limited edition, I knew I wanted to finish our bourbon in a cask and I was looking for one that would add complexity and a dimension that expands the flavor profile,” says Steve Beam, master distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery. “Armagnac is a rustic, full-bodied spirit that contributes dark fruit notes, complementing the vanilla notes in the bourbon. Just like a chef adds spices to enhance flavors, I believe cask-finishing should be similar, where it simply enhances the natural flavors in the bourbon.”

Beam also notes that the French brandy, which uses several different grape varietals each with their own flavors and characteristics, creates a rich flavor and packs a bit more punch than cognacs.

The 2020 Yellowstone Limited Edition also boasts a stunning new bottle, which feels timeless and vintage, similar to Yellowstone Bourbon, which has been around since 1872. The new premium bottle, designed by David Cole, also highlights the year more prominently for collectors.

Approximately 5,000 cases of this bourbon are being produced at Limestone Branch Distillery, bottled at 101 proof in 750ml bottles. The suggested retail price is $99.99.

About Limestone Branch Distillery

Steve Beam and his brother Paul Beam opened Limestone Branch Distillery in 2011, with the goal of crafting the finest spirits in small batches. With a history of distilling on both sides of their family – Beam and Dant – the brothers are seventh-generation distillers. In 2015, they brought the Yellowstone brand back to the family. The distillery is now home to Yellowstone Select, Yellowstone Limited Edition, and Minor Case Rye Whiskey, as well as the newest addition, Bowling & Burch Gin.

For more information on Limestone Branch Distillery and Yellowstone, please visit www.limestonebranch.com, www.yellowstonebourbon.com or www.facebook.com/limestone-branch-distillery.

Two 1792 Bourbons Receive First Place Honors

at 2020 International Whisky Competition

Four Whiskies From Barton 1792 Distillery Receive Medals

BARDSTOWN, kENTUCKY (July 16, 2020) – Two 1792 Bourbons earned first place titles at the 2020 International Whisky Competition. With 91.2 points, 1792 Full Proof was named the Best Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey, and with 90.3 points, 1792 Single Barrel was named Best Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey.

Two more 1792 Bourbons were honored at the IWC. With 92.8 points, 1792 12-Year-Old came in second place for Best Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Best Bourbon Whiskey and for Best Kentucky Whiskey. With 92 points, 1792 Bottled-in-Bond came in third place for Best Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Best Bourbon Whiskey and for Best Kentucky Whiskey.

The International Whisky Competition launched in 2010 with a vision of creating a true competition, offering just three medals per category, like the Olympics. The IWC brings the best whiskies from around the world to be tasted and rated by a professional tasting panel. Complete results for the 2020 International Whisky Competition can be found at https://www.whiskycompetition.com/2020-results.

About Barton 1792 Distillery

Barton 1792 Distillery is part of Barton Brands.  Barton Brands has facilities in Bardstown, Ky., Carson, Calif., and Baltimore, Md. Barton Brands is owned by the Sazerac Company, an American family-owned company based in New Orleans, La. Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operating Distillery in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Distillery is located on 196 acres and includes 28 warehouses, 22 other buildings, the Morton Spring and the Tom Moore Spring.  Distilling, aging and bottling fine Bourbon whiskey are hallmarks of the historic Barton 1792 Distillery. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is produced at Barton 1792 Distillery, and is named for the year Kentucky became a state. The Distillery has garnered a number of prestigious awards for its whiskies, including its 1792 Full Proof, which was named the World Whiskey of the Year by “Jim Murray Whiskey Bible 2020.”  To learn more visit www.1792bourbon.com.