TWO BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY BOURBONS, NAMED “BEST OF CATEGORY” AT 2019 LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL SPIRITS COMPETITION

Fourteen entries from Buffalo Trace Distillery earn Gold Medals 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Aug. 22, 2019) Three Buffalo Trace Distillery spirits were named “Best of Category” at the 2019 Los Angeles International Spirits Competition.  Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Bourbon won in the category of Small Batch Bourbon 10 years or less, Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Bourbon was named Best Straight Bourbon 6 years or older. All also were awarded Gold Medals, as were the following spirits:

• Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Weller CYPB Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Old Weller Antique Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye
• Elmer T. Lee Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Blanton’s Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon (no age)
• Benchmark Kentucky Straight Bourbon 

Silver Medals were awarded to:

• W.L. Weller 12 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E. H. Taylor, Jr. Straight Rye Whiskey

This competition, in its thirteenth year, is judged by a panel of the spirit industry’s most renowned judges including award-winning authors, buyers, journalists, educators and bar owners, who rate each spirit on a 100-point scale.

Complete results for the 2019 Los Angeles International Spirits Competition can be found at https://fairplex.com/competitions/spirits-competition/awards-celebration.

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 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.

THE MACALLAN UNVEILS THE FINE & RARE 1979 VINTAGE

New Release Joins Ranks of Unrivaled Collection of Single Malts  

(NEW YORK, September 11, 2019) Forty years in the making – The Macallan Fine & Rare 1979 is the prestigious new vintage to be welcomed into the brand’s Fine & Rare collection, which was created to portray the very best array of The Macallan.

The Macallan Fine & Rare collection presents some of the greatest vintage single malts produced, and now features the 1979, which was filled on February 19, 1979 and after slumbering for forty years, was captured in 2019 to become part of the liquid history of The Macallan.

“The release of the 1979 Fine & Rare vintage is an exceptional addition to the collection, which displays an inviting burnished antique oak color after being held in a single puncheon cask for forty years,” said Polly Logan, Whisky Maker at The Macallan. “On the nose rich dried fruits with gentle peat smoke, gives way to a hint of orange citrus, balanced with antique oak spice and warming ginger. The journey of discovery continues on the palate with oak spice followed with a richness of dried figs and dates, the gentle peat smoke in the background throughout. The expression finishes with the signature richness of The Macallan with warming oak spice and honey sweetness. By capturing this single malt at natural cask strength of 57.2 percent, it embodies the true spirit of The Macallan and compliments the outstanding array of the Fine & Rare collection.”

Reflecting on the era when this exceptional single malt was distilled, Jaume Ferras, Prestige Marketing Director at The Macallan, said, “This expression delivers an insight into the long-standing heritage of our brand. It is a reflection of the time in which it was distilled – an era of global progression, and an age where our award-winning single malt was also growing and developing. In 1979, The Macallan appointed a new Chairman in Peter Shiach, and his influence is still evident in the brand today, much like The Fine & Rare Collection itself, which demonstrates the unmistakable legacy of The Macallan.”

Over the years, the Fine & Rare range has underpinned The Macallan as the world’s most valuable and collectable single malt whisky, leading the secondary market around the world and setting world record prices. The Macallan Fine & Rare 1979 will be available in the U.S. market and select global markets for a suggested retail price of $14,500 per 750ml bottle. For purchasing inquires, please email: Inquiries.us@themacallan.com

Fine & Rare 1979 Tasting Notes

Color:rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00);”> Burnished antique oak. 

Aroma: Rich dried fruits with gentle peat smoke. A hint of orange citrus, balanced with antique oak spice and warming ginger.

Palate: Fresh with oak spice followed with richness of dried figs and dates, the gentle peat smoke in the background throughout.

Finish: Medium long, with warming oak spice and honey sweetness.

ABV: 57.2% (natural cask strength)

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, recognising 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

ISLE OF RAASAY DISTILLERY
WINS TOURISM DESTINATION OF THE YEAR

Isle of Raasay Distillery is delighted to announce that it has been awarded Tourism Destination Of The Year at last night’s inaugural Scottish Whisky Awards. Taking place in Edinburgh and welcoming over 400 guests, The Scottish Whisky Awards celebrate the best in the whisky industry, awarding on taste and business performance. Beating off competition from some of the country’s finest distilleries, Isle Of Raasay Distillery is proud to be recognised for its dedication to providing a welcoming and enlightening tourist experience to whisky connoisseurs and newcomers alike, all in one of the most unforgettable locations in Scotland.

Raasay Distillery is pioneering a new provenance for Scotch Whisky and, since opening the visitors centre in January 2018, has become a popular tourist destination for whisky pilgrims. Visitors to the Raasay Distillery can now experience first-hand the exciting journey from converting a disused Victorian building to handcrafting the first Isle of Raasay single malt.

Raasay Distillery is independently owned by co-founders Alasdair Day and Bill Dobbie. The pair worked with local architect Olli Blair (ABIR Architects) and Allen Associates to incorporate Borodale House, a
disused Victorian villa, within the design for a modern distillery, visitors centre and accommodation.

Alasdair Day comments:

“As Dave Broom noted when he opened the distillery back in 2017, through history the people of Raasay have shown they don’t just make do, they make better. The distillery team strives every day to challenge the limitations of producing premium distilled spirits in the Hebrides, and welcomes visitors to experience this with them and gain a true sense of Raasay’s past, present and thriving future as a whisky producing island.

We are confident this award will encourage more people to visit us at our Isle of Raasay Distillery!”

Distillery tours cater for all levels of whisky knowledge, from the curious to the connoisseur, and offer an insight into the innovative whisky making process. Raasay Distillery’s tour guides are local islanders who share their unrivalled knowledge of Raasay’s geography and community. The distillery offers tours seven days a week, throughout the year.

Raasay Distillery is also the only distillery in Scotland to provide luxury accommodation within the same building. Three of the bedrooms offer views of the Cuillin mountains on Skye, while the other rooms overlook the production yard and are designed for the ultimate whisky lover. Raasay Distilleryis also planning a calendar of events throughout the year, including Raasay Tunes which celebrates local musicians, and is an integral part of the annual ‘Whisky, Fire and Song’ community festival.

Bringing a significant number of new visitors to the island, the distillery is an ideal destination for whisky tourists and those looking for an unusual off-the-beaten track holiday. Isle Of Raasay Distillery last year further increased visitors to the region by connecting with three neighbouring distilleries tocreate the Hebridean Whisky Trail, a spectacular 115-mile route across the islands.

NOTES

RAASAY DISTILLERY:

Raasay Distillery began producing whisky in September 2017. It is owned by independent Scottish whisky company R&B Distillers. Co-founder Alasdair Day embodies this coupling: his great-grandfather, Allan MacDonald, hailed from the Hebrides, while his other great grandfather, Richard Day, was a master-blender inthe Scottish Borders during the early 19th Century.

In February 2016, the Highland Council granted permission for the construction of a distillery on Raasay. Subsequent grants were secured from the Food Processing Marketing and Co-Operation Grants Scheme, as well as the Highlands and Islands Enterprise for the development of a visitor centre, which is projected to bring 12,000 visitors to Raasay in its first year.

Raasay Single Malt will be ready to drink from 2020 and will encapsulate the rugged elegance of the island terroir. The high mineral content of the island’s water, which filters through the volcanic rock of Dun Caan, will be integral to the flavour of the whisky. A long fermentation time helps to retain the minerality, resulting in a fruity whisky that will become a characteristic of Raasay single malt.

The team hold the long-term ambition of using all-local ingredients – water, peat and barley – to create a spiritthat is a true reflection of this uncommon provenance. In June 2017, Raasay Distillery commenced a barley trial with farmers and crofters to assess the possibility of growing barley locally and concluded that Bere and IsKria (ancient and Icelandic varieties respectively) can be grown the island. Raasay Distillery intend to create a special release of 100% Raasay single malt.

Isle of Raasay Distillery will produce Island Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Rare whisky volumes explode but investment performance dips

Record amount spend on rare whisky during H1 but oversupply leads to softening of prices

The investment performance of rare Scotch has dipped during the first six months of the year, the first such recorded half year decline, according to new figures published today by whisky analyst, broker and investment experts Rare Whisky 101.

The value of the broadest measurement of the market, the Apex 1000 index crystallised its first ever half year loss, dropping by 0.26%. This compares with an increase of 9.91% during the same period last year.

According to Rare Whisky 101’s 2019 Half Year Report, reasons for the decline include over supply of whisky during the early months of 2019, the continued proliferation of new-start whisky auction-houses, and a decline in the performance of the Macallan – the secondary market’s most dominant distillery by both volume and value.

While Scotch whisky has underperformed against other markets and traditional investments throughout the first half of 2019, including FTSE 100, Brent Crude, and Gold, it has still significantly outperformed those very same asset classes over the mid to long term, having increased 160% from December 2014.

Elsewhere in the latest report from RW101, Springbank has claimed top spot as the number one distillery in the investor rankings, closely followed by silent distilleries Brora and Glenugie. The Macallan’s late 2018 dip continued as it moved from 4th at the end of 2018 to 7th by the end of June 2019.

Volume and value still soaring

While the rare whisky market recorded a dip in investment performance, the number of bottles of Single Malt Scotch whisky sold at auction in the UK in H1 2019 increased by 43.90% to 71,544 (49,719 were sold in H1 2018).

The £ value of collectable bottles of Single Malt Scotch whisky sold at auction in the UK in H1 2019 rose by 58.39% to a record high of £25,873,963 (H1 2018 value was £16,335,635).

While the average per-bottle price is up in H1 2019 (£361.65) compared to H1 2018 (£328.56), it dropped 4.30% from December 2018’s record high of £377.91.

Whisky investment analyst and co-founder of Rare Whisky 101, Andy Simpson commented:

“On the back of ten subsequent years of growth in the investment performance of rare whisky, we have seen an oversupply of bottles, the continued proliferation of specialist whisky auction houses, and a record amount of money spent at auction all combine to produce the rare whisky investment market’s first ‘blip’ since we started reporting these results.

“However, collectors, investors and buyers would be well advised to note the dip. At this stage we do not believe it indicates the start of a longer-term downward trend. In fact, looking the last three months of H1 alone (April to June) the Apex 1000 index returned to slightly more significant growth of 1.29%, moving from 825.92 points to 836.55.

“While the broader market might be showing some signs of stress, there are plenty of pockets of growth for those who do their research and time their market entry/exit well: as with all investments. For example, in contrast to the Macallan’s secondary market woes, Springbank has turned in an incredible performance, claiming top spot in the investor rankings for the first time.

“We remain confident that the right bottles from the right distilleries will continue to offer a strong investment proposition. In fact our later than usual reporting of the half year figures has allowed us to see growth return to the market as the supply/demand equation has re-balanced. However, continued uncertainty over the UK’s post-Brexit future makes it very difficult to predict how the market will perform in the latter months of 2019.”

To download the 2019 Half Year Report visit http://www.rarewhisky101.com/intelligence

About Rare Whisky 101
Andy Simpson and David Robertson launched Rare Whisky 101 in 2014 with the aim of offering a whisky valuation service, brokerage and consultancy for whisky connoisseurs, collectors and investors. Having tracked every bottle sold at UK auctions over the past 12 years, the business now offers the world’s first, only and most comprehensive online single malt Scotch & Japanese whisky dataset covering some 500,000 price records and 48,000 different bottle types. In the last 12 months, RW101 have brokered around 20,000 rare whisky bottles around the globe in addition to trading in almost 1000 aged casks from iconic distilleries such as The Macallan, Ardbeg, Bowmore, Springbank, Mortlach, Talisker, Caol Ila, Lagavulin and Highland Park.

Infuse Spirits Rebrands Whiskey Brand Under New Name “Broken Barrel Whiskey,” Commencing with the Limited-Edition Single Oak Series

Infuse Spirits Group L.L.C., the first and only single-bottle infusion company and the spirit industry’s most popular craft infusion company, is excited to announce the rebranding of its whiskey line under the aptly named Broken Barrel Whiskey Co.

When Infuse Spirits first expanded its portfolio to include a Kentucky Bourbon called Broken Barrel, followed by the gold-medal winning Heresy Rye Whiskey, both delivered a message and method that became instantly discernible from Infuse’s vodkas and bitters. Whereas Infuse Spirits continues to steep its ingredients in the single-bottle infusions, Broken Barrel finishes and matures it’s whiskey with French Oak, ex-bourbon, and sherry cask staves in tanks before straining and bottling. This not only separates the two brands by process and style but illustrates how Broken Barrel Whiskey is unapologetically different from other whiskeys. Similar to a mash bill and equally as important, the company’s coined process called the Oak Bill—the selection of various oak barrel staves used to finish our products—is what defines the whiskey.

In this way, “the whiskeys follow their own path and seek to create a name for themselves by adhering to principles of originality, boundary-crossing, and unapologetic authenticity. By adding the barrel to the whiskey, not the whiskey to the barrel concept, we have created something different,” says Founder and Creator Seth Benhaim. If you are a collector, feel free to snag the fleeting designs of the “Infuse Spirits” titled whiskeys, as these will be discontinued and likely gone by early 2020, if not sooner! However, Broken Barrel Whiskey’s core products, Broken Barrel Bourbon and Heresy Rye, will not change price or recipes—they’ll remain the same as everyone knows and loves them.

So, now, the question: how does a rule-breaking producer continue to push the envelope? The limited-edition Single Oak Series is Broken Barrel Whiskey’s latest innovation. Under the new brand name, the company is releasing one-of-a-kind, limited bottlings of its Single Oak Series, which will offer three distinct expressions of oak-infused whiskey—Mizunara (50 ABV, 750 ml); Isle Of Peat (50 ABV, 750 ml); and Cask Of Amontillado (55 ABV, 750 ml)—with a suggested retail price of $50.

As Seth explains, “We deliver one-of-a-kind collaborations by maturing American whiskey with rare oak from around the world. We’ve sourced our whiskey for these bottles from Kentucky and Indiana, and married each blend with oak barrel staves from all around the world: Japan for rare Mizunara oak; Scotland for peated Islay Scotch barrels; and Spain for aged amontillado sherry. Each barrel gives the whiskey a unique, rich, and complex taste and character not commonly found in American whiskey. Additionally, unlike Broken Barrel Whiskey’s core bourbon and rye, the Single Oak Series’ bases are all blends: Mizunara is a blend of five-year-old Kentucky and four-year-old Indiana corn whiskeys; Isle of Peat is a blend of American wheat and single-malt whiskeys; and The Cask of Amontillado is a blend of 12-year-old American whiskey and five-year-old Kentucky corn whiskey. The result is a synthesis nowhere to be found with traditional whiskey, and luckily, the project has paid off tremendously. The Single Oak Series has already won a few authoritative awards. At this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Isle of Peat received a Double Gold Medal in the Wheat Whisk(e)y category and Cask of Amontillado took home a Silver Medal in the Other Whisk(e)y category.

All three limited-edition expressions will be available nationwide in September 2019.

JAMESON DISTILLERY SETS OFF ON WORLD TOUR

Jameson Distillery Bow St. is touring the world, first stop, LX Factory in Lisbon, Portugal in September

Visitors to the pop-up will experience the history, heritage, production process and taste of Jameson on the definitive tour in Lisbon

Dublin, 1 September 2019: Irish Distillers, producer of some of the world’s best known and successful Irish whiskeys, has announced that its award-winning Bow St. Experience is going on tour. From September 2019, the experience will activate in Lisbon, Portugal. Jameson has created a replica of its flagship experience and shipped it to the Portuguese capital, bringing the home of the brand to new audiences.

Running throughout September at Lisbon’s creative urban district – LX Factory – visitors to the pop-up will experience the history, heritage, production process and taste of Jameson on the definitive tour, guided by Jameson’s world-renowned brand ambassadors. In addition, the surrounding Jameson Village will offer a range of interactive, fun and engaging experiences and live entertainment; including bartender masterclasses, a tattoo studio and a barber shop for tourists and visitors to enjoy.

Simon Fay, Business Acceleration Director at Irish Distillers, commented: “For years, we have welcomed Irish whiskey fans from around the world to our brand homes in Dublin and Cork to engage with our whiskeys through unique shared experiences. Now, we are incredibly excited to show Bow St, the spiritual home of Jameson, to the world. Innovation is central to everything we do at Irish Distillers, so we are thrilled to bring our home on tour using shipping containers to transport and house our Bow St. Experience around the globe.

Our aim is to bring our guests on a journey, engaging all five senses through audio visual story telling from a Jameson Brand Ambassador, aromas, hands-on experiences and, of course, product sampling.

This exciting project is part of Irish Distillers’ long-term brand experience plan. As a member of the Irish Whiskey Association, we’re working to make Ireland the world leader in whiskey tourism by 2030. Following on from the launch of Jameson Distillery On Tour this month, we hope to continue to bring the experience to life in other cities, reaching more audiences around the world,” he added.

Each tour lasts 30 minutes with visitors given the opportunity to try a range of Jameson cocktails and beer pairings before or after the tour at The Jameson Bar. Visitors will also be able to visit the Jameson store where they can find exclusive products and merchandise, including their own personalised Jameson Distillery Edition bottle, which until now, was only available at Jameson Distillery Bow St. in Dublin and Jameson Distillery Midleton in Cork.

In December 2018, Jameson Distillery Bow St. was named the World’s Leading Distillery Tour at the World Travel Awards. Jameson Distillery Bow St. was awarded Europe’s Leading Distillery Tour for the second year in a row at The World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony 2019, held in Madeira in June.

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 2018/19. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 70 of those experiencing double or triple-digit growth.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. Since 2012, we have invested over €400 million to double our production and bottling capacity to meet global demand for our products.

We employ over 600 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin.

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of €8,987 million in FY18. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: 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 employs a workforce of approximately 18,900 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 86 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics.

THE GLENDRONACH INTRODUCES LIMITED RELEASE CASK STRENGTH BATCH 8

The GlenDronach distillery is pleased to announce the eighth release of its Cask Strength Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, matured for ten years in Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from Andalucía. This expression offers connoisseurs a deeper insight into the distillery’s signature profile, by bottling the whisky at its natural strength of 61%, to bring the full depth of maturation in Spanish oak casks.

With each unique cask strength release, Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie selects the perfect marriage of sherry casks before bottling at cask strength and without chill filtration, as was the custom when The GlenDronach distillery was established in 1826. As with all of The GlenDronach expressions, the rich natural colour is drawn from the Spanish oak in which it rests.

Master Blender, Dr. Rachel Barrie said: “The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 8 is incredibly rich and full-bodied, the result of years of slow maturation in Pedro Ximénez puncheons, quarter casks and Oloroso sherry butts. Casks were individually selected, combined and bottled at natural cask strength to deliver maximum character and depth. Sip layers of sherry cask matured character unfolding slowly over time; from mocha, dark chocolate and caramel espresso to cherry cake layered with sultana and plum; the depth of character is boundless. The texture is like sipping velvet with a burst of sumptuous fruits, warm spices and intense dark chocolate which crescendos into The GlenDronach’s signature long and richly satisfying finish. I hope the most discerning palates will sip, savour and appreciate the full-bodied character
of Cask Strength Batch 8.”

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Deep tawny gold.
Nose: Sandalwood, oak balsam and rich aromatic columbian coffee with dark manuka honey, cocoa and brazil nut.
Palate: Like sipping velvet with mocha, caramel macchiato and cherry chocolate cake, layered with dates, plum skin and sultana.
Finish: Savour the exceedingly long finish of espresso coffee and cocoa with traces of liquorice and cherry tobacco.
ABV: 61%
RRP: £62.00
The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 8 is bottled at 61% ABV and as is the case for all The GlenDronach expressions, is non-chill filtered and absorbs colour naturally over time from the Spanish oak in which it resides. It will be available to buy from specialist retailers worldwide from September 2019.

ABOUT THE GLENDRONACH DISTILLERY:

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

Nestled in the valley of Forgue, deep in the East Highland hills, is The GlenDronach, one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland. The GlenDronach is of true Highland style: a complex and full bodied spirit, perfect for slow maturation in Spanish sherry oak. At The GlenDronach Distillery, we have carried forth the tradition of our founder James Allardice since 1826, maturing our Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky in the finest Spanish Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks from Andalucía in Spain. Our richly-sherried Highland Single Malts are recognised for their deep colour and complex flavour profiles, which range from the sweet fruity flavours of the Pedro Ximénez casks we select, to the dry and nutty notes of our Oloroso casks.

INTRODUCING EDITION NO.5; A CELEBRATION OF THE MACALLAN’S NATURAL COLOUR 

The Macallan Edition No.5 is our very own homage to the diversity and complexity of natural colour. Inspired by a coming together of whisky making mastery and colour expertise and insight, this single malt celebrates both The Macallan’s commitment to natural colour and the intricate whisky making process.

We are surrounded by colour; it shapes our everyday lives. From defining moods, shaping perceptions, distracting thoughts and changing behaviour, it is a powerful force that can communicate without words.

100% natural in colour, all of our exceptional whiskies from The Macallan are shaped from time spent in the very best casks; maturing, nurturing and developing character.  World renowned colour masters at the Pantone Color Institute^TM created a uniquely bold shade of purple; reflecting an enigmatic, multi-faceted and intricate combination of red and blue.

With The Macallan Edition No.5, it is the complexity and precision of the whisky making process which defines this colour creation; showcasing the infinite hues, creativity and expertise which harnesses the natural colour of The Macallan. 

Sarah Burgess, The Macallan Whisky Maker, said, “We can find much common ground between whisky making and colour creation and with Edition No.5 we have been able to explore and celebrate these two art forms. Whilst colour development starts with mixing basic colours with precision to achieve different shades, for whisky making, it is the knowledge and understanding of a specific palette of colours from the cask which is the starting point.  From here we can craft the desired character and specific colour of the final whisky”.

Commenting on the collaboration, Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, said “As the rainbow’s most complex colour, purple naturally felt like the ideal shade to highlight the equally complex process involved in The Macallan’s whisky making.  This new vibrant shade developed for Edition No.5, brings to life the exquisite combination of distinctive natural hues found in this whisky.

Only American oak casks were handpicked for this single malt, primarily for their colour in order to deliver a whisky with a wonderfully full flavour. The result is beautiful sunlit barley colour that is accompanied by an intriguingly intense flavour profile that hosts sweet notes of caramel and fresh fruit combined with oak spices.  

Tasting Notes: 

The character of Edition No.5 is defined by a complex flavour profile:

Aroma – vanilla and toffee merged with spices of oak, nutmeg and ginger with hints of lemon basil and pear

Palate – Buttery caramel moves into poached peaches and ripe pear

Finish – Sweetness with light, lingering oak spices 

Edition No.5 will be available at specialist retailers, selected on-trade accounts, The Macallan boutique at Heathrow Terminal 5 and The Macallan Distillery & Visitor Experience from the 16th September with an RRP of £92. 

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, recognising 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

About Pantone Color Institute

Pantone provides a universal language of colour that enables colour-critical decisions through every stage of the workflow for brands and manufacturers. More than 10 million designers and producers around the world rely on Pantone products and services to help define, communicate and control colour from inspiration to realization – leveraging advanced X-Rite technology to achieve colour consistency across various materials and finishes for graphics, fashion and product design. Pantone Standards feature digital and physical colour specification and workflow tools. Pantone Color Institute^™ provides customized colour standards, brand identity and product colour consulting as well as trend forecasting inclusive of Pantone Color of the Year, Fashion Runway Color Trend Reports, colour psychology and more.

www.pantone.com

UNIQUE PRIZE GOES ON SHOW TO TEE UP HIGHLAND PRO AM EVENT

A unique prize in Scottish golf is going on display as the countdown begins to a prestigious event which tees off this month.

The Highland Golf Links Pro Am sponsored by Tomatin will be held from 30 September to 2 October at three leading championship courses – Castle Stuart Golf Links, Royal Dornoch Golf Club and The Nairn Golf Club.

In addition to the winner’s cheque, the top professional will this year collect a bottle of Tomatin 50-year-old single malt which has been bottled exclusively for the tournament and is valued at more than £10,000.

In the build-up to the PGA in Scotland Tour event, the valuable prize will be displayed at the Tomatin Distillery visitor centre from Tuesday 10 September until Friday 20 September.

Stuart McColm, general manager at Castle Stuart and Pro Am organiser, said: “The Highland Golf Links Pro Am is already one of the richest events in the PGA in Scotland Tour, but the addition of this prize by our headline sponsor means it offers something different to any other golf competition in Scotland.”

Stephen Bremner, managing director of the globally-renowned Tomatin Distillery, said: “The 50-year-old malt is a very special whisky, which is fitting for such an outstanding event at three of the finest courses in Scotland.”

Having matured for half a century, the deep-honey coloured malt is encased in a handblown Glencairn crystal decanter. This is presented in an Italian- crafted wooden box, furnished with soft, premium Italian leather, and comes with its own, individually-numbered book, signed by Distillery Manager, Graham Eunson.

As well as the winning pro prize, Tomatin is supplying all amateur players in the event an exclusive bottle of 16-year-old single malt from a commemorative cask.

The Pro Am has attracted more than 50 teams from across the UK, Europe and the USA. Amateur players include BBC journalist and broadcaster Naga Munchetty, Sky Sports reporter Sarah Stirk and talkSPORT radio host Georgie Bingham.

Pro golfer and BBC golf reporter Alan Tait will captain the Caste Stuart team which will also feature BBC golf correspondent Iain Carter.

The event has attracted new corporate partners, TaylorMade and Black Isle Brewery, while other sponsors include the Kingsmills Hotel and Culloden House hotel, clothing manufacturers Private Estate and communications company System2.

There are still a few spaces available at the event. If you would like to enter visit https://www.hglproam.com

THE MACALLAN FINE AND RARE 1979 – THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE UNRIVALLED COLLECTION 

Forty years in the making – The Macallan Fine and Rare 1979 is the prestigious new vintage to be welcomed into the brand’s Fine and Rare collection, which was created to portray the very best array of The Macallan.

The Macallan Fine and Rare collection presents some of the greatest vintage single malts produced, and now features the 1979, which was filled on 19 February 1979 and after slumbering for forty years, was captured in 2019 to become part of the liquid history of The Macallan.

Commenting on the new release, Polly Logan, Whisky Maker, The Macallan said: “The release of the 1979 Fine and Rare vintage is an exceptional addition to the collection, which displays an inviting burnished antique oak colour after being held in a single puncheon cask for forty years. On the nose rich dried fruits with gentle peat smoke, gives way to a hint of orange citrus, balanced with antique oak spice and warming ginger. The journey of discovery continues on the palate with oak spice followed with a richness of dried figs and dates, the gentle peat smoke in the background throughout. The expression finishes with the signature richness of The Macallan with warming oak spice and honey sweetness. By capturing this single malt at natural cask strength of 57.2 per cent, it embodies the true spirit of The Macallan and compliments the outstanding array of the Fine and Rare collection.”

Reflecting on the era when this exceptional single malt was distilled, Jaume Ferras, Prestige Marketing Director, The Macallan, said:  “This expression delivers an insight into the long-standing heritage of our brand. It is a reflection of the time in which it was distilled – an era of global progression, and an age where our award-winning single malt was also growing and developing.

“In 1979 The Macallan appointed a new Chairman in Peter Shiach, and his influence is still evident in the brand today, much like The Fine and Rare Collection itself, which demonstrates the unmistakable legacy of The Macallan.”

Over the years, the Fine and Rare range has underpinned The Macallan as the world’s most valuable and collectable single malt whisky, leading the secondary market around the world and setting world record prices.

The recommended retail price of The Macallan Fine and Rare 1979 will be £10,300 per 70cl bottle, £11,100 per 750cl and £750 per 5cl.

Tasting notes:

Colour:  Burnished antique oak.

Nose:  Rich dried fruits with gentle peat smoke. A hint of orange citrus, balanced with antique oak spice and warming ginger.

Palate:  Fresh with oak spice followed with richness of dried figs and dates, the gentle peat smoke in the background throughout.

Finish: Medium long, with warming oak spice and honey sweetness.

ABV: 57.2% (natural cask strength)

Tint: 44

Cask:  –  – Sherry Puncheon

Cask no: 2803

Age: 40 Years Old

Bottle numbers: 338 bottle equivalents

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 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, recognising 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