Whisky production begins at Lagg Distillery

The latest major milestone in the building of the Isle of Arran Distillers’ new Lagg Distillery has been reached, with distillation now underway.

The first middle cut of spirit was recorded on Tuesday 19^th March at 14.35. Following this, the commissioning phase has now been completed and Cask Number One was filled on Wednesday 10^th April.

Cask Number One, a Sherry Butt exclusively reserved for members of the Lagg Cask Society, has been filled with a heavily-peated (50ppm) spirit, at a filling strength of 63.5%.

This spirit is expected to mature into the rich, earthy, smoky, Lagg Single Malt which will be very different in character to what the distillers currently produce at their original distillery in Lochranza.

Master Distiller, James MacTaggart, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to be taking the very first steps in producing what will eventually be a magnificent Lagg whisky and something truly unique to anything we’ve produced previously.”

Whisky lovers can be part of the exciting story of the Lagg Distillery, by purchasing one of the first casks to be filled at the distillery, and becoming members of the Lagg Cask Society. For more information, visit www.laggwhisky.com

Over half of the casks reserved for this offering have now been sold, and with distillation underway, it is expected that each of the 700 casks for the society will soon be filled.

In terms of site construction, the distillery & visitor centre is now entering its final stages and is on track to open in early summer of this year. Work to the outer structure is now complete, and inside many of the elements of internal design are starting to come together.

It is expected that once open, the Lagg Distillery and Visitor Centre will increase total visitor numbers at both sites to over 200,000 by 2020. 

Accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for:

Best New Exporter (2004), Queen’s Award for International Trade (2005), Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007) Scottish Field Visitor Experience of the Year 2014 & 2015

Drinks Business Best Contribution to Wine and Spirits Tourism (2017)

Best Brewery/Distillery Tour – Scottish Outdoor Leisure Awards (2017)

Best Visitor Experience – Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (2018)

Product Awards include:

Arran 10 year-old: Gold Medal ‘Best Single Malt 12 Years & Under, World Whiskies Awards (2019) San Francisco World Spirits Competition Double Gold Medal (2018). International Wine & Spirits Competition Gold Medal (2018). Category Winner and Gold Medal ‘Best Scotch Under 12 Years’ Islands Non-Islay at the World Whiskies Awards (2018). International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018). Ultimate Spirits Challenge 91 points (2018). Ultimate Spirits Challenge Cocktail Commendation for the Rob Roy (2018). Double Gold Medal China Wine & Spirits Best Value Awards (2014)

Arran 18 year-old: Gold Medal ‘Best Single Malt 13 – 20 Years, World Whiskies Awards (2019) International Wine & Spirits Competition Gold Medal (2018) Category Winner & Gold Medal ‘Best Scotch 13-20 Years – Islands (Non- Islay) World Whiskies Awards (2018). International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018) Scottish Field Whisky Challenge – Gold Award for Best Whisky £50-100 (2018)

Quarter Cask ‘The Bothy’: Best Scotch Island Single Malt, World Whiskies Awards (2019) Category Winner & Gold Medal ‘No Age Statement Single Malt’ for The Bothy Batch 3 World Whiskies Awards (2018). International Wine & Spirits Competition Silver Outstanding Medal (2018). International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018)

Arran Lochranza Reserve: International Wine & Spirits Competition Silver Outstanding Medal (2018), International Spirits Challenge Silver Medal (2018)

Benromach adds Cask Strength Vintage 2008 to its Classic Range 

New Benromach limited batch release to be available across multiple international markets 

Family owned Benromach Distillery has announced a new addition to its Classic Range, Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008 Batch 1, a rich and full-bodied, limited-batch single malt whisky.

The batch release which will be sold across multiple international markets, was matured in First-Fill Sherry and Bourbon casks. Just 5,500 bottles will be available to purchase worldwide from 24^th April 2019*.

Laid down in 2008 before being bottled in 2019, Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008 is a 10-year- old whisky. The golden amber dram has notes of cracked black pepper, fruits and milk chocolate, with a delicate smoky edge on the palate. The whisky has a long, deep finish with subtle smokiness and bonfire embers.

Bottled at cask strength (57.9% ABV), Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008 Batch 1 will replace Benromach 100° Proof in the Classic Range. The new expression will provide single malt Scotch whisky fans with subtle variations on the flavour profile of Benromach 100° Proof with small strength and natural colour variations reflecting different batches.

Keith Cruickshank, Benromach Distillery Manager, said: “By offering the opportunity to own and enjoy batch releases, we are able to further showcase the expertise of our distilling team while determining the right time to bottle each batch to take full advantage of the remarkable single malt whiskies we produce. We believe this expression will allow Benromach drinkers to understand more about the provenance of the whisky they are drinking.

“Every whisky we release has been carefully handcrafted by our close-knit team of distillers. While retaining the overall flavours that Benromach consumers have enjoyed in Benromach 100° Proof, the new Cask Strength Vintage release will differ subtly in both strength and flavour profile, reflecting the specific casks chosen from the vintage year.”

Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008 Batch 1 is presented in an elegant bottle with shapes and textures inspired by the Speyside distillery. The copper cut medallion on the packaging signifies the moment in time when the distillers cut to the sweet heart of the spirit run. Each bottle will detail the vintage year, batch number and age.

Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008 Batch 1 will be available in selected markets worldwide with a recommended retail price (RRP) of €69.95 (£59.95). Prices in local markets may vary depending on local taxes and duty.*

Benromach is one of only a few distilleries in Scotland to use traditional methods, without any automated machinery. The small team of distillers employ all their senses when crafting the classic Speyside single malt Scotch whiskies, managing the process by sight, sound and touch to create the unique, handcrafted and authentic Benromach taste.

For more information on Benromach single malt Scotch whisky, and to explore the Classic Range, please visit: www.benromach.com.

*Cask Strength Vintage 2008 Batch 1 will be available worldwide with the exception of China and the US. These countries will receive Cask Strength Vintage market exclusives later this year.

Notes

Benromach Cask Strength Vintage 2008 Batch 1 Tasting notes

Colour

Golden amber

Nose

Stewed apple, pear and vanilla pod aromas.

Palate

Cracked black pepper with juicy fresh strawberry and raspberry, hints of orange peel and milk chocolate combined with a delicate smoky edge.

A touch of water reveals a sweet and salty effect, with ripe banana and blackcurrant flavours before giving way to a creamy milk chocolate edge and lingering subtle smokiness.

Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery and purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A five-star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com.

Littlemill Distillery

Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery revealed

Littlemill Distillery has long laid claim to an extensive and fascinating history, but new historic documentary evidence unearthed from the archives now conclusively proves that it was the oldest licensed whisky distillery in Scotland.

For over 220 years a date stone on the gable end of one of the distillery’s warehouses carved with 1772 offered the best suggestion as to the age of this world-renowned distillery, but there has been no documentary or legal proof until now.

This new evidence has come to light following the discovery of the local Justice of the Peace’s records for Dumbarton, dated 2 November 1773, which state that ‘Robert Muir of Littlemiln’ was granted the first ever license by the Government of King George III to “retail ale, beer and other excisable Liquors.”

Additionally, in 1772 accommodation was built next door to the distillery to house the Excise officers who represented the King – and ensured any distillation was duly recorded and the relevant taxes calculated and paid. This suggests that something was already afoot onsite before 1772 and cements Littlemill’s position as Scotland’s first and oldest licensed whisky distillery.

Colin Matthews, CEO, Loch Lomond Group commented:

“It has often been rumoured that Littlemill was the oldest licensed distillery in Scotland which until now have been only rumours. We have now uncovered conclusive documentary evidence to confirm these rumours and claims as reality, having commissioned detailed research to establish the facts. We are thrilled and excited to have discovered these clear and unambiguous documents dating back to 1773 that confirms that Littlemill was indeed the very first Scottish distillery to obtain a licence to sell ‘excisable liquors’.”

Charles MacLean, whisky historian and author added: “The wrangle about ‘the oldest distillery’ has been running for ages, so this is a significant find. There have been several claims before, based on the fact that illicit distilling took place on the site prior to a license being granted. The Dumbarton Justice of the Peace records, referencing Littlemill, does not refer explicitly to distilling, since prior to 1781 private distilling was perfectly legal so long as the spirits were not offered for sale. So, this license to sell excisable liquors amounted to a license to distil as we understand it today. What a shame Littlemill itself burnt down in 2004, but thankfully some limited stocks remain!”

Archibald Buchanan

Brothers George and Archibald Buchanan – the original owners of Littlemill – were trailblazers for the rich tradition of Scottish whisky production, and Littlemill continued to lead the industry for over two centuries. Notably, it was one of the first distilleries to have a female licensee, Jane MacGregor, in 1823. Later, in 1931, under the stewardship of the American Duncan Thomas, Littlemill was at the forefront of still innovation with technical designs that could create three styles of single malts from full-bodied to light.

Whisky production at Littlemill, situated in Bowling on the banks of the River Clyde near Glasgow, continued until the distillery fell silent in 1994 and was subsequently destroyed by fire in 2004, never to produce a drop again.

Loch Lomond Group launched the Littlemill 40-Year-Old Celestial Edition (46.8% ABV) in late 2018, the oldest expression ever to be released from the lost Littlemill distillery. This rare release celebrates the life’s work of Littlemill owner Duncan Thomas and represents the culmination of his knowledge and experience, capturing the essence of his pioneering distilling process. Littlemill 40-year-old was recently scored at an impressive 90/100[1] by whisky expert Dave Broom on scotchwhisky.com.

Only 250 bottles of this precious liquid have been produced, each displayed in a stunning presentation box capturing the exact map of the night sky seen above Littlemill Distillery on the night the spirit was barrelled.

The latest addition to the Littlemill range will be released in September 2019. Littlemill 29-year-old (RRP £2,500; 47.3% ABV) is the third release from the Private Cellar Collection, comprising only 600 bottles which will be released across the world.

The liquid is contained within a bespoke Glencairn crystal decanter etched with an illustration of the River Clyde and a silver star signifying the Littlemill distillery’s location. The decanter is accompanied in its beautifully crafted presentation box by a 5cl miniature of the liquid, a piece of an original Littlemill cask, and a booklet sharing the fascinating history of the Littlemill distillery and tasting notes from Master Distiller Michael Henry.

For further information visit www.littlemilldistillery.com.

About the Loch Lomond Group:

• Loch Lomond Group is an independent distiller based in Alexandria and is home to several award-winning scotch whisky and other spirits brands that are sold in more than 120 countries around the world.
• Loch Lomond distillery has been producing the finest single malt scotch whisky since 1814.
• Images and interviews with key staff from the Group are available upon request.
• www.lochlomondgroup.com

About Littlemill: 

Littlemill:

• The Littlemill distillery was officially established in 1772 on the site of an old brewery that had been founded during the 14th century in Bowling on the banks of the River Clyde near Glasgow.
• It is rumoured that illicit distilling had taken place there since 1750 when the site was bought by George Buchanan, a malt master, and according to the renowned whisky historian and writer Misako Udo in her book ‘The Scotch Whisky Distilleries’ distilling may have taken place there for many centuries before, possibly making it the world’s oldest whisky distillery.
• Littlemill fell into perpetual silence in 1994 and then the distillery was destroyed by fire in 2004.
• In 1931 Littlemill led whisky still innovation whereby its innovative design could create three styles of spirit under the stewardship of the American Duncan Thomas. It was these stills that provided the inspiration for the stills that remain in place at Loch Lomond Distillery today.
• In 2015 Loch Lomond Group commenced the new Littlemill Private Cellar Edition.
• Twitter / Instagram: @LittlemillMalt, Facebook: @LittlemillwhiskyE

Littlemill 29-year-old tasting notes:

• Nose: Floral notes of honeysuckle and rose mix with layers of spice, cinnamon and nutmeg followed by crème caramel and blossom honey with delicate orange.

• Taste: Silk like mouthfeel glides over the tongue. Crisp green apple, ripe pear and kiwi fruit before a caramel sweetness is balanced by lime juice and orange marmalade citrus notes.

• Finish: Long with toasted oak and waves of warming spice then thick, creamy vanilla and lingering green fruits.

[1] Scotchwhisky.com Scores of 90+ = Superb. Highest possible recommendation.

JACK DANIEL’S LAUNCHES AUGMENTED REALITY APP

AR brings an engaging experience rich with stories and visuals in a way that’s uniquely Jack 

LYNCHBURG, Tenn. (April 18, 2019) – Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey is rolling out an Augmented Reality (AR) app that will take consumers on a virtual journey of the Jack Daniel Distillery through a series of pop-up book style dioramas with more than 10 minutes of content providing an engaging experience rich with stories and visuals in a way that’s uniquely Jack.

“In today’s world, it’s important for us to reach fans and consumers where they are,” said Jeff Cole, Modern Media Director for Jack Daniel’s. “That means sharing content that’s unique, interesting and relevant though a variety of digital mediums. In 2016, we launched an immersive Virtual Realty experience and in 2018 we launched our official podcast, ‘Around the Barrel.’ This new AR experience is taking our brand storytelling to the next level.”

Once consumers download the dedicated app, they can point their phones at any Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey bottle (from 50mL to 1.75L) to uncover the animations, voice overs, and all the stories that make the more than 150-year old brand so special, from the Cave Spring water to the distilling process, to name a few.

Jack Daniel’s partnered with Tactic, a San Francisco-based company specializing in the production of immersive experiences, to develop the app.

“Augmented reality is in an exciting stage, and new technology and techniques are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” said Peter Oberdorfer, President of Tactic. “The Jack Daniel’s AR app features technology that sets the bar for creative storytelling in this new medium. The learnings and best practices from Jack Daniel’s will help inform the development of AR apps across different brands and industries.”

The AR experience is divided into three unique parts, each designed with the look and feel of hand-crafted models and integrate real-time, environmental lighting and textures. The first experience transforms the front label of the bottle into a miniature version of the Jack Daniel Distillery. The second walks step by step through the process of making Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, and the third shares stories of the man himself, Jack Daniel.

The Jack Daniel’s AR app will be available for download in the US for both iOS and Android platforms on April 15.

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 Rare Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails. Today, Jack Daniel’s is a true global icon found in more than 170 countries around the world and is the most valuable spirits brand in the world as recognized by Interbrand.

Your friends at Jack Daniel’s remind you to drink responsibly. JACK DANIEL’S and OLD NO. 7 are registered trademarks. ©2018 Jack Daniel’s. Tennessee Whiskey 40% Alcohol by Volume (80 Proof). Distilled & Bottled by Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee. JackDaniels.com

About Tactic

Tactic is an innovation studio situated at the convergence of design and technology. Its team of engineers and designers develop unique immersive experiences for AR and VR media as well as interactive installations, 360° video capture, game engine content, wearables, and other related technologies.

New  Category Announced in Inaugural Scottish Whisky Awards

The organisers of the new national celebration for the business of Scotch have added a new category to their line up as the programme progresses to the judging stages.

The Scottish Whisky Awards have added an ‘Excellence in Branding’ category which will be judged by a high-profile panel of experts from across the drinks industry.

The award will recognise the creation of a whisky brand which aims to make its mark in a competitive market.  Judges will consider the use of the brand in the context of product, packaging, marketing and communication strategies.

The awards have recruited a highly regarded judging panel which comprises of 35 experts from across the whisky business and related industries.  They will assess written entries in 7 categories covering a wide range of business including marketing, tourism destination, brand experience and community contribution.    The tasting panel which includes some of the world’s authorities in whisky tasting will blind taste a range of samples in 10 categories at the end of May.

The programme has the support of several sponsors including Shawbrook Bank, Bruce Stevenson, Wolffe Design and Barr Printers.

Details of the new category can be viewed here.

The deadline for entries is Thursday 9 May and it’s easy to enter following these simple steps.

Visit www.scottishwhiskyawards.org.uk

1. Register as a user in the My Account section
2. Go to Enter Now
3. Select your categories and fill in the form.
4. Process the registration fees and submit

For advice on the entry process or for support with your entries, please contact pippa@kdmedia.co.uk.

The Scottish Whisky Awards takes place on Thursday 5 September 2019 at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Edinburgh.

4-6 Coltbridge Avenue, Edinburgh, EH12 6AH
info@kdmedia.co.uk

We are delighted to announce the launch of an exciting new addition to the Finlaggan family of Islay Single Malt Scotch Whiskies.

Many years ago, in a first for our company, we filled new make Finlaggan into Rioja Red Wine Hogsheads. Coming from the Rioja region within the Basque country of Spain, these Hogsheads have given our signature heavily peated Finlaggan an extra layer of rich mouth coating red berried fruits. The result is a truly mouthwatering sweet and smoky dram to savour.

The extraction from the oak casks has given this whisky a natural coppery rose gold colour.

 Our first batch is limited to 7,000 bottles and bottled at 46% Vol with no chillfiltration.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Delicious sweet peat smoke and red berried fruits.

Palate: Smokey bacon and strawberries with plum notes, sea salt and chewy earthy peat. Grape skin tannins.

Finish: Long lingering sweet smoke.

ABOUT THE VINTAGE MALT WHISKY COMPANY

Founded 25 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

Carnegie Whisky Cellars wins top award at the Scottish Independent Retail Awards 2019 

The Carnegie Whisky Cellars would like to announce that for the 2^nd time in almost 3 years of trading in the heart of Dornoch, they have won  ‘Off License of the Year’ at the prestigious Scottish Independent Retailing Awards hosted by Creative Oceanic, held in Glasgow on 9^th April  ‘It is with enormous pride we bring this award North’ says Michael Hanratty, General Manager of the Carnegie Whisky Cellars.

Attending the glitzy awards ceremony at The Glasgow Marriott on 9^th April, Michael and Lorna Smith of Carnegie Whisky Cellars were both astonished and delighted to receive the industry accolade for a second time.

‘We have had the most fantastic support from our local and indeed worldwide customers in everything we have done here in the shop.  I am sure our charity efforts, our close working ties with local distilleries, and the amazing support of our customers have all played a part in our winning this award. ‘

Last year Carnegie Whisky Cellars chosen charity was Poppyscotland, and in addition to producing a special bottling in conjunction with Wolfburn Distillery in Thurso, several special tasting events were held – again fully supported by our amazing local customer base – which resulted in the Carnegie Whisky Cellars raising £14,107.56 for the charity

A special bottling of Bunnahabhain was created in conjunction with Hunter Laing & Co for the Dornoch Whisky Festival, which the Carnegie Whisky Cellars is an integral part of, hosting VIP tastings and events at the festival, now in its’ 5^th year

The Whisky Cellars team, Michael, Lorna and David, would like to thank all their loyal customers for their incredible support, and the Scottish Independent Retail Awards for presenting this great accolade. The Carnegie Whisky Cellars, now an established part of the Dornoch business community, specialises in single malt whiskies and all Scottish produced spirits – when fully stocked over 400 whiskies are available. After winning the award the Carnegie Whisky Cellars attended the opening of the new Ardnahoe Distillery and taken the award to all nine of Islay’s distilleries.

Carnegie Whisky Cellars extends a warm invitation to all to pop in for a browse and a chat about all things Scottish spirits – we look forward to seeing you, and thanks for your support! Slainte

Notes

• For further information about the Carnegie Whisky Cellars, please contact our General Manager – Michael Hanratty via whisky@thecarnegiecourthouse.co.uk or 01862 811791 – 07916645360
• Testimonials from Poppyscotland, Wolfburn Distillery, Visit Dornoch, Local MP and the Dornoch Whisky Festival can be provide on request.
• For further information on the Scottish Independent Retail Awards please follow the link on Facebook

• For more information regarding the event contact Creative Oceanic on 08448793256 or email events8@creativeoceanic.com
• Creative Oceanic, website creativeoceanic.com. For more information regarding the event or media related information please contact Creative Oceanic UK on 08448793256 or the Republic Of Ireland on 019020004 or email media@creativeoceanic.com

JACK DANIEL’S ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF NO. 27 GOLD TENNESSEE WHISKEY ACROSS UNITED STATES

Double Barreled and Double Mellowed Expression of Jack Daniel’s Now Available Nationwide 

LYNCHBURG, Tenn., (April 15, 2019) – After its initial launch as a travel retail exclusive item and select markets in Asia, Jack Daniel’s is officially introducing Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey to the United States.

A double-barreled and double-mellowed expression of its classic Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, the premium bottle brings a fusion between warm maple and toasted oak to create a rich and refined finish suited for today’s whiskey aficionado.

Representative of the skill and craftsmanship of the Jack Daniel Distillery, the process first begins with maturation in new charred American white oak barrels. Once these barrels are determined to be fully matured, they are removed from the barrelhouse and the whiskey is placed into maple wood barrels. The final step is a second time charcoal mellowing before being bottled.

“Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold pays homage to our distillery’s golden rule of, ‘Every day we make it, we’ll make it the best we can,” said Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller Jeff Arnett. “The natural amber hue, along with a scent of toasted oak and honey, offer an intricate texture and taste, making this whiskey a very distinct and luxury product.”

Due to the extra time and attention required to craft this ultra-smooth spirit, Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey was previously only available in select markets. This product launch emphasizes Jack Daniel’s continuous commitment of making high quality whiskeys fully available to a wider consumer. Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, the product is now available across the United States for a suggested retail price of $99.99. For more information on Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey, visit www.jackdaniels.com.

About Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey

Jack Daniel’s No. 27 Gold Tennessee Whiskey is a luxury expression of Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey. Its name, “27,” celebrates the twice barreled, twice mellowing process where maple barrels impart a rich, smooth and luxurious whiskey experience. 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 and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails.

“Please sip responsibly.”

JACK DANIEL’S NO. 27 GOLD TENNESSEE WHISKEY is a registered trademark of JACK DANIEL PROPERTIES INC. ©2019. Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, 40% ALC./VOL.(80 proof). Distilled and Bottled by JACK DANIEL DISTILLERY, Lynchburg, TENNESSEE, U.S.A.

 NEW HEBRIDEAN WHISKY FESTIVAL LAUNCHES FEATURING ISLE OF RAASAY DISTILLERY

The first ever Hebridean Whisky Festival is to take place across the islands of Skye, Raasay and Harris between 21st-25th May 2019.

Spread between the four distilleries along the Hebridean Whisky Trail, the festival will feature free tours, tastings, music, casks and special events at Talisker, Torabhaig, Isle of Raasay and Harris distilleries and the Aros Centre, Portree.

Launched in 2018, the Hebridean Whisky Trail is a spectacular 115-mile route set amidst Skye’s stunning Cuillin mountains, Raasay’s beautiful coastline and seascapes and the famous white sandy shores of Harris At the Isle of Raasay Distillery on Thursday 23rd May 2019, whisky pilgrims can hop across the water to the youngest distillery on the Hebridean Whisky Trail for the launch of the exclusive new warehouse and whisky and chocolate tours.

This fantastic experience will take visitors to the inner sanctum of the distillery’s cask warehouse filled with the aroma of spirit maturing in Bordeaux, virgin oak and rye whisky casks.

Seasoned whisky connoisseurs and intrepid island explorers alike can enjoy the spectacular views from the warehouse terrace above the distillery across to the Cuillin mountains on Skye. Those with a sweet tooth can also enjoy the launch of the distillery’s new whisky and chocolate tour with delicious pairings of whisky and chocolate by Finlay MacDonald’s Glenshiel Chocolate Company.

The festival kicks off with two days on Skye at Torabhaig Distillery on Tuesday 21st May followed by events at Talisker, the oldest distillery on the trail, on Wednesday 22nd. Raasay Distillery on Thursday 23rd and then you can follow the self-guided whisky trail route up to Isle of Harris Distillery on Friday 24th May. Meanwhile in Portree the Aros Centre will showcase the distilleries at a special Hebridean Whisky Festival tasting stand for the duration of the festival.

The festival finale is the ‘Big Day at Slig’ taking place at the Sligachan Hotel on Saturday 25th May in Skye. Here all four distilleries will come together in one place for a day of whisky tastings, Hebridean Whisky cocktails, Distillery vehicles, cask displays, craft ales and a visit from the Isle of Skye pipe band. The festival will offer a chance to try all the spirits, as well as other local brews from Cuillin Brewery, sweet treats from the likes of Chocolates of Glenshiel and delicacies from the Skye Smokehouse. The festival will conclude in true Hebridean style with a ceilidh into the night at the Sligachan Hotel. These events are free entry and festival-goers can or choose to experience part of the festival or follow the full trail over five days by land or sea.

Notes 

The trail can be followed by land or sea with three CalMac ferry crossings linking the destinations as well as yacht berthing facilities near to each distillery. By sea, the Trail can be charted clockwise or anti-clockwise around Skye. Intrepid sea-farers can set sail from any of the four distilleries from points north, south, east or west. Road travellers can begin their journey either by crossing over the Skye Bridge at Kyle, or start at the Trail’s northernmost point on Harris, or its southernmost point at Torabhaig on Skye’s Sleat peninsula. Raasay is only a short 25-minute ferry journey from Sconser on Skye and the distillery is a short stroll from Raasay ferry terminal.

The Hebridean Whisky Trail’s total length is 115.2 miles.

Distances between each distillery:

Armadale–Torabhaig 4.2miles

Torabhaig–Talisker 36.1 Miles

Talisker –Raasay 14.5 miles

Raasay–Harris 60.4 miles

Contact information:

Raasay Distillery: harriet@kapranos-pr.com

Talisker Distillery: Susan.MacLean@diageo.com

Torabhaig Distillery: anne@torabhaig.com

Isle of Harris Distillery: shona.macleod@harrisdistillery.com

Scotch Whisky Association: pressoffice@swa.org

www.hebrideanwhisky.com

www.Calmac.com

www.scotch-whisky.org.uk

Raasay Distillery, Borodale House, Isle of Raasay, Kyle IV40 8PB raasaydistillery.com

T: 01478 470178

Opening times: 10am – 5pm

Instagram/ Facebook: @raasaydistillery, Twitter: @RaasayWhisky, YouTube: bit.ly/raasayyoutube

Kingsbarns Distillery Toasts Single Cask Sales Success

Fife’s Kingsbarns Distillery is celebrating a milestone this month with news that the first of a new series of single cask malt whiskies has sold out – just weeks after its release.

Launched in mid-March exclusively to the distillery’s Founders’ Club members and online customers, the eagerly awaited expression sold a remarkable 204 bottles in less than 24 hours, with the remainder of this limited edition bottling being snapped up soon afterwards.

Kingsbarns Single Cask No 360 is the first of a new single cask series from the small East Neuk-based distillery, launched to showcase the distinctive, light and fruity Lowland style of its single malt whisky in specific barrels.

Laid down in 2015 in a first fill American oak barrel, this cask strength release is bottled at 60.9% ABV. On the nose the whisky’s sweet floral scent has notes of custard and vanilla, whilst on the palate there is cream soda with a little ‘fizz’ of lemon sherbet.

Packaged in soft shades of blue and gold to symbolise the natural elements of the whisky’s picturesque Fife home, the bottle also features Kingsbarns’ signature pigeon motif to represent the historic ‘doocot’ (Scots for dovecot) that sits at the heart of the distillery.

The release of Single Cask No 360 follows a successful start to the year for Kingsbarns Distillery, which saw the founding Wemyss family officially launch their flagship expression, Kingsbarns ‘Dream to Dram’, back in January.

Named to celebrate the realisation of their dream to craft fine single malt whisky in their Fife home, the new dram has already made its mark with strong sales and positive feedback for its light, fruity style – with leading whisky experts noting its huge potential in the single malt market.

The Kingsbarns Founders’ Club has also seen a significant increase in membership as the popularity of Lowland style single malts continues to grow. Open to just 3000 members, the club offers a unique chance to be part of the growth and success of this ambitious young distillery, as well as securing exclusive and collectable expressions when they are released.

Kingsbarns Distillery Manager, Peter Holroyd commented: ‘The success of our first single cask release is incredibly exciting and is a real testament to our team’s skill, passion and dedication. Over recent years, there has been a growing interest in the once overlooked Lowlands whisky region, and we are very proud to be championing the area and introducing the light, balanced character and fresh style of our Kingsbarns whisky to the world. 

‘Just like our flagship malt expression, the new single cask range is expertly handcrafted using local Fife barley, rich mineral water from the land beneath us, expertly chosen wood and the distillery’s long, slow production process in copper pot stills. This is what sits at the heart of our whisky and will never change, as we look forward to releasing more expressions and single cask releases in the not too distant future.’ 

Whilst Kingsbarns Single Cask No 360 is now sold out, visitors to the Distillery can purchase a bottle of sister cask 358 which is sold exclusively in the Visitor Centre shop.

www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com

Twitter @KingsbarnsDist / Instagram @kingsbarnsdist 

Kingsbarns Distillery

Kingsbarns Distillery began life as a semi-derelict farm steading – built around 1800 by Thomas Erskine, the ninth Earl of Kellie, as part of East Newhall Farm to service the adjoining Cambo Estate. Its centrepiece is a doocot, made with over 600 neatly formed terracotta nesting boxes which, at the time, would have housed pigeons to supply the laird’s kitchen with meat and eggs.

A three year restoration project involving specialist architects, engineers, designers and whisky specialists restored this historic building into the beautiful distillery and visitor centre that is now in place today – including the immaculately restored doocot in pride of place.

The distillery has 4 washbacks and 2 stills (wash still 7.5k litres, spirit still 4.5k litres) which have been designed to fit snugly into the low distillery space, using long lyne arms for maximum copper contact. The distillery has a capacity of 34 barrels per week and can produce 200k litres of alcohol per year.

The Kingsbarns team is aiming to make the distillery as green as possible and sustainability is at the heart of production. Nothing is wasted and everything goes back into the local environment to the benefit of local businesses.

Distiller Peter Holroyd has been at the helm of distillation since the very beginning, sharing his passion for whisky and turning the Kingsbarns dream into a reality with the Wemyss family. A native of Glasgow, Peter graduated from the Heriot Watt Brewing and Distilling Course in Edinburgh, working in a number of small breweries before joining the Kingsbarns Team in his first whisky role.

The Kingsbarns Distillery Founders’ Club was launched on the first anniversary of the Distillery on 30^th November 2015 and is still open for membership.  Members enjoy a welcome pack with a small bottle of Kingsbarns New Make Spirit, a glass and membership badge, plus five exclusive bottles of cask strength single malt whisky, including the distillery’s inaugural Founders’ Reserve expression.

The Wemyss Family drinks portfolio 

Wemyss Malts: Edinburgh based independent bottler, Wemyss Malts is owned by the Wemyss family. Their family seat is Wemyss Castle in Fife where they’ve lived since the 1300s.  Wemyss Malts is primarily known for its award-winning range of blended malt Scotch Whisky which uses names inspired by the natural flavours and aromas of the whiskies: The Hive, Spice King and Peat Chimney. www.wemyssmalts.com. 

Darnley’s Gin: The family also own and produce Darnley’s Gin at the Kingsbarns Distillery site in Fife. Darnley’s Gin offers tours and tastings in a converted cottage with a Gin School where visitors can distil their own bottle of gin on a mini still www.darnleysgin.com. 

Rimauresq: to complete the drinks portfolio, the Wemyss Family own the premium wine estate of Rimauresq Cru Classé in Cotes de Provence www.rimauresq.eu.