Press Releases

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES NEXT INSTALLMENT IN OLD CHARTER OAK SERIES, CANADIAN OAK  – American Whiskey News

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES NEXT INSTALLMENT IN OLD CHARTER OAK SERIES, CANADIAN OAK 

New Addition will Continue the Exploration of the Role Oak Plays

in Making Great Whiskey

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Oct 17, 2019) – Buffalo Trace Distillery continues its exploration into oak tree varietals with the release of its Old Charter Oak Canadian Oak.  In late 2018, Buffalo Trace announced its Old Charter Oak series, a collection exploring the different taste profiles of barrels obtained from trees grown in different countries, climates and soil.  The Old Charter Oak collection is designed to explore, honor, and celebrate the role of oak in making great whiskey. The oak trees used for this brand vary by country of origin, or species, or U.S. state. Some barrels are even made from century oaks, 100, 200, or 300 year old oak trees.

For the newest release, Buffalo Trace obtained a small number of barrels from Canada and filled them with its Mash #1, the same mashbill used to make Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, and several other award-winning bourbons at the Distillery.  Canadian oak trees differ from American oak trees in that they are harder and have a tighter grain structure, which affects the bourbon as it ages.  Harlen Wheatley, master distiller, explains the difference further by stating, “The tighter grain allows the whiskey to penetrate more layers in the wood, but it does take it longer to do it.  So the longer the bourbon ages, the more flavor can be extracted.”

The Old Charter Oak Canadian Oak was aged for 10 years and will be available at retail in late October.

Tasting notes for the Canadian Oak describe it as having a nose of caramel and berries. The palate has hints of vanilla and maple syrup.  A long finish of oak, chocolate and pepper round it out.

This is the third release in the Old Charter Oak Collection. The first two releases were  Mongolian Oak and French Oak. All the Old Charter Oak Bourbon series will be released over time, with a fourth release scheduled for early 2020.  Subsequent releases are planned a few times each year, indefinitely.  “We’re excited to release this third bourbon in this exploratory series.  We have bourbon aging for the Old Charter Oak collection scheduled for release now through 2030, but we’ll keep producing more each year for more new whiskeys beyond that,” said Kris Comstock, senior marketing director.

By federal standards, bourbon is required to be aged in a new, charred oak container. However, there is no specification it must be American white oak, it’s just that nearly all bourbons made today are aged in white oak.

The Old Charter brand dates back to 1874, with its creation by Adam and Ben Chapeze, naming it in honor of the Charter Oak tree, a famous symbol of American independence and free spirit, which grew in Connecticut in the 12th or 13th century until it fell in a storm in 1856.

The Old Charter brand changed owners a few times, until it was purchased by Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1999.  The existing Old Charter Bourbon is still produced by parent company Sazerac and there are no plans to discontinue it. The Old Charter Oak series is an upscale brand extension, much like Buffalo Trace has done with its E. H. Taylor, Jr, line.

The suggested retail pricing for the Canadian Oak is $69.99, but the different oak varieties released over the years will have different price points, all in a similar range.  Like the first two releases in this series, supplies will be limited. Packaging for the Canadian Oak will remain consistent with the other two releases, with an upscale look consisting of a glass bottle with a cork finish. Each bottle will have an oak medallion on the front depicting the Charter Oak tree.

The Old Charter Oak Canadian Oak is 92 proof.  More information can be found about the Old Charter Oak series www.oldcharteroak.com

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 listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 21 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.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 500 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com

JACK DANIEL DISTILLERY RELEASES 2019 SINGLE BARREL “HERITAGE BARREL” TENNESSEE WHISKEY – American Whiskey News

JACK DANIEL DISTILLERY RELEASES 2019 SINGLE BARREL “HERITAGE BARREL” TENNESSEE WHISKEY

 

Award-winning, limited-edition Tennessee whiskey celebrates historic craftsmanship steeped in tradition

LYNCHBURG, Tenn. (October 17, 2019) – Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel “Heritage Barrel” will return to shelves for a limited run this fall. Fewer than 200 barrels, aged in barrels crafted in the classic style used by Jack Daniel himself in the company’s earliest days, have been hand-picked by Master Distiller Jeff Arnett and his team of whiskey makers for this special release. Last year’s edition was named one of the top three whiskeys of 2018 by Whisky Advocate.

With an extra year aged at the highest altitude of the Jack Daniel Distillery’s warmest barrelhouse, this year’s iteration of Heritage Barrel will have a greater depth of color and character for fans of the original run to enjoy. The rich vanilla, oak spice and sweet caramel flavors are derived from a unique barrel toasting you won’t find in any other Single Barrel expression. Each heritage barrel is slowly heated to achieve a deeper, richer toasted layer before being charred, evoking the barrels of the distillery’s earliest coopers. 

“The second release of Heritage Barrel will be everything that the first issue was, and then some,” said Arnett. “As the angels share grows, each drop becomes more precious and this whiskey is guaranteed to not disappoint.”

 

Jack Daniel’s is the only major whiskey company in the world to make its own barrels, crafted from American white oak and hand raised by our expert coopers. The unique barrels crafted to mature “Heritage Barrel” take a trip back in time to Jack’s humble beginnings and celebrate the vital maturation process that takes Tennessee whiskey from the distillery, to the bottle.

 

The limited-edition bottle will hit shelves in mid-October available in a 750ml size with a suggested retail price of $64.99. 

 

About Jack Daniel’s

Officially registered by the U.S. Government in 1866 and based in Lynchburg, Tenn., the Jack Daniel Distillery, Lem Motlow, proprietor, is the first registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Jack Daniel’s is the maker of the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, Gentleman Jack Double Mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Rye, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Your friends at Jack Daniel’s remind you to drink responsibly.

‘Father of Single Malt’ honoured with Centenary Release – Scotch Whisky News

‘Father of Single Malt’ honoured with Centenary Release

Whisky creator Gordon & MacPhail has released a single malt to honour George Urquhart, member of the second generation of the company’s owning family, in what would have been his centenary year.

Laid down in 1956, the year ‘Mr George’ as he was known by colleagues, became senior partner, the 62-year-old single malt features spirit from one of his favourite distilleries, Glen Grant

Renowned whisky writer Charles MacLean remarked, “It is no exaggeration to say that George Urquhart was the father, the originator, of the current success and appreciation of Scotch malt whiskies.”

Joining the business in 1933, George Urquhart began his career working alongside his father, John, who had become sole owner of the company in 1915 after John Alexander MacPhail’s retirement and James Gordon’s passing.

‘Mr George’ went on to develop a deep understanding of Scotch whisky, especially the unique interaction that occurs over time between spirit and cask. He was instrumental to the success of single malt, championing it at a time when the vast majority of whisky went towards the production of blends.  In 1968, he created the Connoisseurs Choice range giving little-known distilleries a platform to have their whisky enjoyed in its simplest form, as aged single malt.

Over many decades George Urquhart forged new relationships with many of Scotland’s distillers and became arguably the world’s foremost expert in how to combine oak, spirit and time to create single malt whiskies.

His philosophy and legacy live on today as Gordon & MacPhail continues to create a unique depth and breadth of rare single malt Scotch whiskies found nowhere else in the world.

Released as a fitting tribute to this legacy, the Mr George Centenary Edition 1956 from Glen Grant Distillery has been selected for bottling by George Urquhart’s grandson, Stuart, Operations Director at Gordon & MacPhail.

Laid down by Mr George Urquhart himself in a hand-selected first fill Sherry Butt on 13 December 1956, the expression also pays tribute to Speyside, where Mr George spent many years building long-standing relationships with the region’s distilleries.

The commemorative whisky is presented in an exquisite glass decanter and a wooden presentation case. The red and white design is a modern interpretation of the original Connoisseurs Choice bottles from 1968.

Today, Mr George’s legacy is built upon by his family, including his grandson Stephen Rankin, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Prestige.

Stephen comments: “My grandfather’s drive, commitment and foresight helped to ensure that single malt Scotch whisky grew in popularity. His introduction of the Connoisseurs Choice range in 1968 was a landmark moment for the sector, launched as several new export markets opened and growth in demand for single malts came from countries including Italy.

“Our specially selected Mr George Centenary Edition embodies the qualities that made Mr George a master of his craft; patience, depth of character and exquisite taste. Not only was Glen Grant one of his favourite drams, the year 1956 is especially significant as this was the year George became Senior Partner at Gordon & MacPhail, marking the first step in a new direction for the company.

“It’s also a reminder of the importance of maintaining relationships built on respect – something which has become our family’s philosophy. Many of these relationships, built decades ago, still thrive today.”

Commenting on Mr George’s legacy and impact, Charles Maclean added,: “It would be true to say that during the ‘dark days’ for Scotch malt whisky (the 1940’s-70’s) when all malt went into blends, Gordon & MacPhail kept the amber light burning. Indeed, when times were really tough, some distilleries survived on orders from that company.”

Only 235 bottles of Gordon & MacPhail Mr George Centenary Edition 1956 from Glen Grant Distillery will be available for purchase from selected specialist whisky retailers internationally for £5000* [UK RRP].

For more information, visit www.gordonandmacphail.com

#GordonAndMacPhail

Tasting notes

Mr George Centenary Edition from Glen Grant Distillery 

Distillery:  Glen Grant

Region:  Speyside

Distilled:  Thursday 13 December 1956

Bottled: Thursday 27 June 2019

ABV: 51.7%

Age: 62 years

Cask No.: 4455

Cask Type:  First-fill Sherry Butt

Outturn: 235 bottles

Tasting Notes: Intense; SHERRY aromas give way to STEWED DATES with hints of CARAMELISED BROWN SUGAR. Sweet on the palate with sun-dried FRUITS, rich DARK CHOCOLATE PRALINE and bursts of CITRUS ZEST. Notes of CHARRED OAK linger with nuances of subtle SMOKE.

Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies

Established in 1895, family-owned Gordon & MacPhail is creator of some of the world’s finest and rarest single malt Scotch whiskies from over 100 distilleries. Four generations of the Urquhart family have continued to pursue the perfect partnership between spirit and cask.

Since its foundation, Gordon & MacPhail has carefully matched spirit to the highest quality oak casks which are sent to distilleries throughout Scotland, filled with new-make spirit, and matured either at the distillery of origin or in the firm’s own bonded warehouse in Elgin.

It is this simple but endlessly complex pairing that creates an intriguing and unique portfolio of expressions – single malts that Scotch whisky lovers will not find anywhere else.

In April 2018, the company unveiled its streamlined portfolio:

  • ‘Discovery’ – Utterly dependable, this flavour-led range is the perfect introduction to our portfolio of quality single malt Scotch whiskies.
  • ‘Distillery Labels’ – A range celebrating our long-standing relationships with Scotland’s distilleries.
  • ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ – The heart of our portfolio – always unique, these non-chill-filtered, natural coloured, small batch expressions are genuine one-offs.
  • ‘Private Collection’ – Greatly-aged single malts from celebrated, little-known, or closed distilleries specially selected by members of the Urquhart family.
  • ‘Generations’ – A prestigious collection of old, rare, and exclusive masterpieces.

THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY LAUNCHING NEW MEMBERS’ ROOM IN GLASGOW – Scotch Whisky News 

THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY LAUNCHING NEW MEMBERS’ ROOM IN GLASGOW 

The new venue in the heart of the city will be exclusively for SMWS members

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has announced plans for a new Members’ Room in Glasgow, set to open at the end of January 2020.

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

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

On offer will be more than 300 Society bottlings spanning their 12 unique flavour profiles such as Old & Dignified and Oily & Coastal, with a selection of outstanding single cask, single malts available by the dram.

The interior décor of the venue will be consistent with existing SMWS Members’ Rooms but with a uniquely modern and vibrant Glasgow flavour to reflect this new home for whisky lovers in the city.

The venue space is set up for a range of occasions, with relaxed lounge seating, including a ‘Vaults Snug’, as well as more formal areas. The dedicated whisky tasting room can accommodate up to 10 people, and will be available for private tastings.

As well as an ever-changing range of SMWS whiskies, there will be a selection of special proprietary whiskies alongside local beers and a menu of creative, whisky-inspired cocktails. Alongside the exclusive drinks selection will be a bar food menu including snacks and tapas, with space for up to 16 people for exclusive private dinners.

Jan Damen, Operations Director at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, said: “We know there has always been a demand from our members for an SMWS venue in Glasgow, so we’re delighted to be opening in such a great city with a lively whisky scene.

“We have a high number of existing members in the city and the surrounding area, so we hope to provide them with their own venue to meet up and also welcome new whisky-loving members to join us there.”

Prior to the January opening of the new Glasgow Members’ Room, the Society is hosting an exclusive tasting in its newest location.

Members can gain a sneak preview of 38 Bath Street at a free event with drams and nibbles, and bring along their friends to reap exclusive membership referral awards.

Membership to The Scotch Malt Whisky Society brings whisky adventurers from all over the world together to share colourful experiences and the finest single cask single malt whisky.

VIDEO: The SMWS is coming to Glasgow! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KC5QCv7ZxU  

MEMBERS’ BATH STREET GLASGOW PREVIEW EVENT:

Thursday 31st October

5.30 – 7.15pm / 8.00 – 9.30pm

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society

38 Bath Street

Glasgow

G2 1HG 

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 to editors:

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

Gordon and MacPhail director receives top industry honour – Scotch Whisky News

Gordon and MacPhail director receives top industry honour

A director and fourth-generation member of the owning family of Gordon & MacPhail has received one of the whisky industry’s highest honours.

Stephen Rankin, the Elgin-based company’s Director of Prestige, was announced as a Master of the Quaich at the biannual Keepers of the Quaich ceremony at Blair Castle, which recognises the outstanding commitment of those who produce or promote Scotch whisky.

To be announced as a Keeper is an honour bestowed upon a limited number of people; to become a Master of the Quaich is a special recognition of those who have been inducted as a Keeper over ten years ago, and have made an exceptional contribution to the industry.

Stephen, who is approaching his 20th anniversary within the industry, said: “It’s an honour to be inducted as a Master of Quaich, keeping great company among some of the whisky industry’s most remarkable people, including some of my peers at Gordon & MacPhail.

“Passion and dedication for creating and promoting single malt whisky is something that has been instilled by my family for four generations, and it’s something that I will continue to uphold and progress in my responsibilities as Master of the Quaich.”

Guests at the prestigious event, which saw five Masters and 44 Keepers announced, were addressed by the Olympian rower Dame Katherine Grainger, who was also awarded the role of Honorary Keeper of the Quaich.

Annabel Meikle, Director of The Keepers of the Quaich, said: “It was a great pleasure to invite Stephen to become a Master of the Quaich. The accolade of Master is truly special. Those who are invited by the Management Committee have made an exceptional contribution to the Scotch whisky industry for a minimum of ten years, but in reality most have had at least double this length of service. The title of Master has only been awarded to around 200 members.”

Stephen’s induction as a Master comes in what would have been the centenary year of his grandfather George Urquhart, who played a huge role in the single malt whisky industry and remains the only person to have been awarded Keeper of the Quaich outside of Blair Castle, when the rules were waived and he received his induction while in a nursing home.

The Society was founded over 35 years ago and takes its name from the traditional two-handled drinking cup which is described in the ancient Gaelic language of Scotland as a ‘cuach’ or quaich, a vessel long associated with friendship and the enjoyment of Scotch whisky.

Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies

Established in 1895, family-owned Gordon & MacPhail is curator of some of the world’s finest and rarest single malt Scotch whiskies from over 100 distilleries. Four generations of the Urquhart family have continued to pursue the perfect partnership between spirit and cask.

Since its foundation, Gordon & MacPhail has carefully matched spirit to the highest quality oak casks which are sent to distilleries throughout Scotland, filled with new-make spirit, and matured either at the distillery of origin or in the firm’s own bonded warehouse in Elgin.

It is this simple but endlessly complex pairing that creates an intriguing and unique portfolio of expressions – single malts that Scotch whisky lovers will not find anywhere else.

In April 2018, the company unveiled its streamlined portfolio:

  • ‘Discovery’ – Utterly dependable, this flavour-led range is the perfect introduction to our portfolio of quality single malt Scotch whiskies.
  • ‘Distillery Labels’ – A range celebrating our long-standing relationships with Scotland’s distilleries.
  • ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ – The heart of our portfolio – always unique, these non-chill-filtered, natural coloured, small batch expressions are genuine one-offs.
  • ‘Private Collection’ – Greatly-aged single malts from celebrated, little-known, or closed distilleries specially selected by members of the Urquhart family.
  • ‘Generations’ – A prestigious collection of old, rare, and exclusive masterpieces.

Beam Suntory Investing $60 Million in Clermont, Reintroducing the James B. Beam Distilling Co. – American Whiskey News

Beam Suntory Investing $60 Million in Clermont, Reintroducing the James B. Beam Distilling Co.

CLERMONT, KY, July 25, 2019 – Today, Beam Suntory is breaking ground on the Fred B. Noe Craft Distillery, which will be the home of future innovation and provide opportunities for education and hospitality. The new distillery is part of a larger $60 million investment to re-establish the James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Clermont, which encompasses the production operations for the flagship Jim Beam® brand, as well as small-batch brands like Booker’s®, Baker’s®, Basil Hayden’s® and Knob Creek®, and next generation brands like Legent™ and Little Book®, and the visitor experience.

Beam Suntory is excited to honor our roots by investing in the James B. Beam Distilling Co., and setting ourselves up for a bright future in Kentucky and around the world,” said Albert Baladi, President & CEO, Beam Suntory. “With nearly 225 years behind us, we are proud of our history of entrepreneurialism, craftsmanship and innovation.  As the world leader in bourbon, we are thrilled to be laying the foundation for the next 225 years.

The James B. Beam Distilling Co. was the company’s name immediately following Prohibition and will serve as the name of Beam Suntory’s Clermont operations going forward.

The Fred B. Noe Craft Distillery, named for 7th Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe, will serve as the home for small-batch bourbons like Booker’s and Baker’s, the next-generation brand Little Book, created by 8th generation Beam Distiller Freddie Noe, and serve as a functional production facility to explore new fermentation and distillation techniques. It will be located on the James B. Beam Distilling Co. site in Clermont, Kentucky.

“At Beam Suntory, we like to say that we’re all One Big Family, and what we’re beginning here today reinforces our leadership in bourbon, and sets us up for the future,” said Freddie Noe. “Now I can’t think of anyone who’s set up the future of bourbon any better than my dad, so I can hardly begin to express my pride in naming this new distillery after him.”

As part of its tourism investment, Beam Suntory will elevate its visitor experience in Clermont, KY and give consumers more reasons to visit, including behind-the-scenes tour across the family of brands from Jim Beam to Basil Hayden’s to Legent, a tasting room, and even customizable experiences.

Beam Suntory recently announced Jim Beam’s $5 million donation to the University of Kentucky, the largest philanthropic donation on company record, to establish the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits. This institution, designed in partnership with the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Distillers Association, will educate the next generation of distillers through a first-of-its-kind curriculum that covers the skills needed to succeed in the distilled spirits industry at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels.

Each year, Beam Suntory invests more than $500 million to make bourbon in Kentucky.

About Beam Suntory
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and Midori liqueur.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com

FINLAGGAN CASK STRENGTH WINS GRAND GOLD MEDAL AND SPIRITS SELECTION REVELATION AWARD – Scotch Whisky News

CONCOURS MONDIAL BRUXELLES
FINLAGGAN CASK STRENGTH WINS GRAND GOLD MEDAL AND SPIRITS SELECTION REVELATION AWARD

We are delighted to announce Finlaggan Cask Strength Islay Single Malt has not only been awarded a Grand Gold Medal at the 2019 Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial Bruxelles but also a Spirits Selection Revelation trophy.

At the end of the competition, the Grand Gold Medal winners are tasted a second time by all the panel Chairs, who deliberate to award “Spirits Selection Revelation” trophies to innovative products that meet current consumer demand, making them particularly representative of present-day trends and what consumers want.

At 58% Alc/Vol Finlaggan Cask Strength is a serious Islay Single Malt. With sweet peatiness and salty, smoky notes on the nose, a palate of malt is followed by a huge intensity of peat and then by seaweed and pepper. The finish is big, warming with lingering sea salt and peat smoke.

Andrew Crook, Managing Director said of the win “it’s always exciting to win awards and the outstanding reputation that the Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial competition is gaining, makes this Grand Gold medal a great victory. Made even better by being awarded a Spirits Selection Revelation, proving that Finlaggan Cask Strength is a credible player in the Islay Single Malts category and realising our vision to make quality Islay Malts accessible to everyone”. Chairman and Founder, Brian Crook added “This exceptional whisky has long deserved its Grand Gold Medal. It is a tribute to the many years of hard work from the dedicated and enthusiastic team behind it”.

ABOUT THE VINTAGE MALT WHISKY COMPANY

Founded over 27 years ago by Brian Crook with a vision to make iconic Islay Single Malts available and accessible to smaller independent retailers throughout the world, The Vintage Malt Company has done all this and more. Now, under the leadership of Brian’s son, Andrew Crook, this family company has gone from strength to strength supplying malts and building brands globally in over 35 countries.

For more information on all our products visit www.vintagemaltwhisky.com or contact andrew@vintagemaltwhisky.com

ABOUT THE SPIRITS SELECTION BY CONCOURS MONDIAL BRUXELLES

The outstanding reputation of its selection process is one of the key components of the competition’s success. Reputable judges, renowned for their ability to assess spirits are rigorously chosen for the competition. In 2016, 70 international judges spanning 23 nationalities took part, a diversity that contributes to the uniqueness of the event and greater objectivity of results. The organizers ensure the judges enjoy optimal tasting conditions. The wide array of products and high alcoholic strengths make sensory analysis of spirits challenging. The number of samples tasted per session is deliberately restricted to 35 and Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles attaches great importance to training its judges.

Maker’s Mark® Introduces Its First-Ever Nationally Available Limited Release Bourbon – American Whiskey News

Maker’s Mark® Introduces Its First-Ever Nationally Available Limited Release Bourbon

Loretto, Ky.  – Maker’s Mark® today announced the launch of its first-ever nationally available limited-release bourbon, Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series 2019 Limited Release: Stave Profile RC6. This cask strength expression of Maker’s Mark® Bourbon is finished with proprietary wood staves, referred to as Stave Profile RC6. The staves amplify notes of ripe fruit balanced with layers of baking spice – a taste profile inspired by the brand’s proprietary yeast strain used to produce its classic Maker’s Mark Bourbon. Only 255 barrels of the limited release bourbon will be produced, with bottles available at select retail locations beginning in late September.

This special edition bourbon is the first limited release in the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series, a collection of Maker’s Mark expressions that use an innovative wood stave-finishing technique to enhance distinctive characteristics already present in Maker’s Mark® Bourbon. The series includes existing offerings Maker’s Mark 46™ and Maker’s Mark Private Select® and the distillery plans to introduce new limited-edition bourbons to the Series in the coming years.

“We have been experimenting with wood finishing staves and techniques since we first released Maker’s Mark 46 in 2010, and it never ceases to amaze me how much natural flavor we can extract from just ten wood staves interacting with our bourbon over a period of time,” said Jane Bowie, Maker’s Mark Director of Private Select. “Stave finishes allow us to innovate with an already delicious product in a purposeful fashion, exploring different wood types, seasoning periods, cook times, and heat levels until we achieve the exact flavor vision we have in mind. We’re excited to share the distinct possibilities with whisky fans, starting with the 2019 Limited Release.”

The 2019 Limited Release was created to introduce a version of Maker’s Mark that amplified the ripe fruit notes already found in the distillery’s proprietary yeast, balancing sweetness and spice. This specific vision was achieved by finishing fully-matured, cask strength Maker’s Mark Bourbon in a second barrel with ten proprietary “RC6” wood staves. The barrels were then rested in the Maker’s Mark limestone bourbon cellar, allowing the cask strength bourbon to interact with the staves to develop the expression’s unique flavor.

Developed over the course of two years in partnership with barrel producer Independent Stave Company, Stave Profile RC6 is made from American Oak that has first been exposed to the outdoors, or “seasoned,” for an extended 18 months before being toasted in a convection oven.

Bottled at 108.2 proof, each 750mL bottle of the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series 2019 Limited Release will retail for a suggested $59.99 and will be available while supplies last.

About Maker’s Mark® Bourbon
In 1953, in Loretto, Kentucky, Bill Samuels, Sr., fulfilled his dream to create a handmade and delicious bourbon. He decided to make his whisky in small batches, using soft red winter wheat to enhance the softness and sweetness. He then rotated each barrel by hand for consistency, and finally, aged each barrel to taste. Bill Samuels, Sr., transformed bourbon from a “commodity” into a premium handmade spirit, and today Maker’s Mark® continues to make its bourbon the same way. In recent years, Maker’s Mark has introduced thoughtful, super-premium innovations to its portfolio including Maker’s Mark 46™  Maker’s Mark® Cask Strength, and Maker’s Mark Private Select®, the brand’s first-ever custom barrel program. In 1980, the Maker’s Mark distillery became the first distillery in America to be designated a National Historic Landmark and has also been decreed as the “world’s oldest operating bourbon whiskey distillery” by Guinness World Records. It remains one of the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. For more information, visit makersmark.com.

About Beam Suntory Inc.
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and Midori liqueur.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com

Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2020 – Whisky News

Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2020

KENTUCKY TIPPLES’ TRIPLE TRIUMPH
* Sazerac sweeps the board in World Whisky of the Year awards.
* Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2020 hands US distiller unique 1-2-3.
* Rags-to-riches 1792 Full Proof Bourbon is planet’s finest.

Jim Murray has handed an unprecedented triple crown to Kentucky whiskey in the latest edition of his best-selling annual Whisky Bible.

And on unveiling the 2020 World Whisky of the Year Awards, the renowned Industry guru has created another first by giving all top three accolades for the finest new drams on earth to the same whiskey company, New Orleans-based Sazerac.

Top prize of World Whisky of the Year goes to the 1792 Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon from the Barton 1792 distillery, a whiskey Jim Murray describes as “melodious, mysterious and slightly exotic” with a nose of “near-perfect proportions” and with an “unfaltering” finish when tasted.

Only 25 years ago, Jim Murray branded Barton the worst distillery in Kentucky – but now, under Sazerac stewardship, it has become the world champion.

The runners-up – from 1,250 new drams tasted by Jim Murray this year – are both Buffalo Trace brands: bourbon William Larue Weller 125.7 proof, the latest version of last year’s victor, and Thomas Handy Sazerac Rye 127.2 proof.

Jim Murray said: “There will be eyebrows raised and claims of favouritism which, of course, is never the case with the Whisky Bible: I call it exactly as I see it. Once I knew the top three were from the same company, I spent two extra days running through my top ten whiskies once more…and the results came out exactly the same!

“For the 1792 Distillery to win World Whisky of the Year is extraordinary because when I first went there some 25 years ago, the then-owners had no interest in high-end whiskey. The oldest they produced was a 6-year-old which I thought was one of the most complex on the market but still undercooked. I implored them then to bring out something much older.

“It is wonderful that my gut instinct of 25 years ago has been vindicated under the ownership of Sazerac, who have turned a potentially great distillery into something truly magnificent.

“If anyone tries to convince you the romance of whiskey is dead and gone or has all been confected then don’t you believe them. For where else could such an ugly duckling become so beautiful a swan?”

Sazerac president Mark Brown said: “To not only be named World Whisky of the Year but also to have our whiskeys named second and third finest is astonishing. We could not be happier or more motivated to continue to strive for perfection in the American whiskeys we make.”

Sectional winners include: the Taiwanese Nantou Distillery Omar Cask Strength Bourbon Cask (Single Cask of the Year); Glen Grant Aged 18 Years Rare Edition (Scotch); Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ghost & Rare (Blended Scotch); Penderyn Single Cask no.M75-32 (European); Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt (Japanese).

Notes

Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2020 contains taste notes for around 5,000 drams. Available from 17/10/19 at all good bookshops, retailers and whiskybible.com, priced £14.99. Press enquiries: Vincent Flint-Hill +44 (0)117 317 9777; vincent@whiskybible.com

Our mailing address is:

Dram Good Books Ltd
Unit 2, Barnstones Business Park
Litchborough
Towcester, Northants  NN12 8JJ
United Kingdom

 

Knob Creek® Bourbon Introduces Limited Time Expression Knob Creek® Quarter Oak – American Whiskey News

Knob Creek® Bourbon Introduces Limited Time Expression Knob Creek® Quarter Oak

Clermont, KY – Knob Creek® Bourbon, a leader in the Small Batch Bourbon category for more than 25 years, is excited to announce a new, limited edition bourbon in its award-winning portfolio, Knob Creek® Quarter Oak. This special, limited-time release uses a secondary finishing approach to continue the vision founding distiller Booker Noe set for Knob Creek decades ago: to craft bourbon with the fullest flavors characteristic of pre-prohibition style.

With its latest release, Knob Creek explores and deepens the influence of oak on its flagship bourbon. Knob Creek Quarter Oak takes the brand’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, crafted in the pre-prohibition style fans expect from Knob Creek, and finishes it for a minimum of four years in quarter cask, American oak barrels to increase the amount of contact between the whiskey and wood. A small amount of this unique, secondarily finished whiskey – which delivers richer notes of oak – is then mingled with Knob Creek® Kentucky Straight Bourbon to create the final product that boasts a harmonious balance of oak influence and traditional, sweeter notes.

“When Dad created Knob Creek in the early 90s, he wanted to bring back the big, bold flavors that bourbon offered before the days of Prohibition,” said Fred Noe, Booker’s son and Beam Family 7th Generation Master Distiller. “Dad loved to experiment in his quest for flavor, and I like to think we carry on that same spirit today with releases like this. Finishing our full-flavored liquid in quarter casks delivers a really nice, deepened wood flavor to the bourbon our fans enjoy.”

Knob Creek Quarter Oak is bottled with the following characteristics:

  • Proof: 100
  • Color: Dark Honey
  • Aroma: A nice blend of brown sweets, char and toasted oak with hints of dried fruits
  • Taste: Sweet, heavy oak with background notes of char, dried fruits and brown spices
  • Finish: Slightly sweet charred oak with a lingering dryness
  • Cocktail Suggestion: Knob Creek® Quarter Oak Collins 
    • INGREDIENTS:
      • 2 parts Knob Creek® Quarter Oak
      • 1 part simple syrup
      • ¾ part lemon juice
      • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
      • 1 part soda water
  • METHOD:
    • Combine all ingredients except soda water into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake 10-15 seconds until well chilled. Separate tins and add a splash of soda water into the cocktail. Top the tin with a strainer and strain slowly into a Collins glass filled with ice.
    • Garnish with a lemon wheel and brandied cherries.

Knob Creek Quarter Oak is now available nationwide with a Suggested Retail Price of $49.99 for a 750mL bottle.

For more information about Knob Creek Quarter Oak and Knob Creek’s award-winning bourbon and rye portfolios, please visit www.KnobCreek.com or visit with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Knob Creek® Bourbon
Part of the original small batch bourbon collection from Kentucky, Knob Creek® Bourbon has set the standard for super-premium bourbon for more than 25 years, crafting an extraordinary full-flavored bourbon with a rich taste. Introduced in 1992 by founding distiller Booker Noe, who pioneered the small batch bourbon movement, all Knob Creek expressions are patiently aged in new, maximum charred American Oak barrels and bottled in unique flask-shaped packaging. No matter the expression, Knob Creek’s hard-earned flavor is crafted without shortcuts, and upholds the standards for what great whiskey ought to be. In recent years, Knob Creek has expanded its portfolio, introducing Knob Creek® Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon (120 proof/60% alcohol by volume) in 2011, Knob Creek Straight Rye Whiskey (100 proof/50% alcohol by volume) in 2012, Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Rye Whiskey (115 proof/57.5% alcohol by volume) and Knob Creek Cask Strength Rye Whiskey, a limited-edition offering, (119.6 proof/ 59.8% alcohol by volume), both introduced in 2018.

About Beam Suntory Inc.
As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires human connections. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands, Suntory whisky Kakubin and Courvoisier cognac, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek, Basil Hayden’s and Legent bourbon; Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki and Toki Japanese whisky; Teacher’s, Laphroaig and Bowmore Scotch whisky; Canadian Club whisky; Hornitos and Sauza tequila; EFFEN, Haku and Pinnacle vodka; Sipsmith and Roku gin; and Midori liqueur.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and vision of Growing for Good.  Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.  For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.


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