Award winners (l to r) Charles MacLean, Michael Urquhart, Dennis McBain & Ian Millar

Quartet of awards for whisky legends as ambassadors take centre stage at Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

Four whisky legends were singled out for special recognition at the opening dinner of the 20th Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival last night (Wednesday May 1).

The 2019 festival is the biggest to date, with over 700 events taking place across Speyside in the coming days, and the organisers paid tribute to four people who have helped put the Scotch whisky industry, the Speyside region and the annual festival, on the map.

Recognising exceptional service to promoting Scotch Whisky and the Speyside region, the Spirit of Speyside Award for lifetime achievement went to Michael Urquhart.

Michael retired as managing director of Gordon & MacPhail, the Elgin-based whisky specialist, famed for selecting, maturing and bottling some of the world’s finest and rarest single malt Scotch whiskies.

In recognition of his services to the promotion of Scotch whisky worldwide he was made a Keeper and later a Master of the Quaich. Whisky Advocate presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award and he was inducted into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame. Still actively supporting business initiatives in Moray and Speyside, he chairs the Moray Growth Deal Business Assembly.

The award for International Ambassador of the Year went to renowned whisky writer Charles MacLean in recognition of his efforts over many years to promote the festival, and Speyside, to both whisky lovers and those curious about Scotland’s national drink.

Charles has published 10 whisky-related books and has has presented numerous tastings and talks in the UK and abroad for whisky companies, corporations, universities and clubs, in addition to appearances on radio and TV. He is also known to many as the whisky expert in the film, The Angel’s Share.

The first winner of the unsung hero award was coppersmith Dennis McBain, in recognition of over 50 years behind the scenes work at Balvenie Distillery. Although Dennis is not one who is usually in the limelight, he was honoured for his important and valuable contribution to the success of a Speyside company.

Spirit of Speyside Ambassador award went to Ian Millar, who began his career in Scotch whisky production in Perthshire 48 years ago. Twenty years after joining the industry he moved to Speyside to manage Mortlach Distillery before moving to manage both Linkwood and Glen Elgin Distilleries.

Ian then joined William Grant and Sons to manage its Dufftown operations and later became a global brand ambassador for Glenfiddich. He continues to impart his wealth of invaluable experience and expertise in a bespoke role created for him as the firm’s Prestige Whisky Specialist where he shares his infectious enthusiasm and knowledge with valued customers and consumers.

Festival chairman James Campbell, said: “Each of our winners has made a huge contribution to the industry, each in a different way, and we are proud to honour them in this fashion.

“Michael Urquhart has given a lifetime of exceptional service to promoting Scotch whisky and Speyside. In the course of his work he travelled extensively throughout the world meeting distributors, giving tastings and masterclasses to promote single malt Scotch. He always spread the word about the Speyside region at the same time.

“Charles MacLean has done much over many years to promote the festival as well as the Speyside region to novices and whisky enthusiasts from near and far.

“Dennis McBain may be one of the last people ever to have a 50-year career in one job and with one employer. His job has changed very little, as the time-honoured, handcrafted techniques required have remained the same as when he began.

“Ian Millar’s contribution to the world of Scotch whisky has been widely recognised; he was made first a Keeper and more recently a Master of the Quaich. It is with great pleasure that the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival also recognises his achievements in enhancing the experience of visitors from near and far by making him its Ambassador.”

The winners were announced at a sell-out dinner that officially marked the start of the 20th festival, held at The Glenlivet Distillery, when guest speaker was Lord Thurso, chairman of VisitScotland. With over 700 events, this year’s festival programme runs over six days and continues until Monday, May 6.

It includes everything from exclusive distillery tours, tutored tastings, talks, whisky auctions and fairs, outdoor adventures by foot, canoe or train, traditional ceilidhs, fine dining dinners, live music and crafts. Events take place in venues across Speyside, with the diverse offering suited to both whisky connoisseurs and first-time visitors, whatever level of interest or knowledge they have in Scotland’s national drink.

After 20 years, the appeal of the festival continues to grow, with 173 events completely selling out within the first 24 hours of tickets going on sale, but late bookers can still to join a number of events in Scotland’s malt whisky country. For more information, visit please visit  www.spiritofspeyside.com

There are regular updates on social media at facebook.com/ /WhiskyFestival and @spirit_speyside on Twitter and Instagram. Use the hashtag #dram19

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.

Capturing the spirit of the region with a classic Speyside whisky…introducing Cask Speyside 10 year old, a new limited edition Single Malt from A. D. Rattray.

Among the rolling hills, lush grass and fresh flowing streams which feed the mighty River Spey, lie over one third of Scotland’s distilleries. The region has been home to whisky-making for centuries, and Speyside has long been synonymous with the very finest Scotch whisky.

Through generations, Speyside’s skilled crafters have continued to harness the outstanding natural resources of the region through a mix of tradition and innovation. It is the perfect marriage of a unique heritage, world-leading engineering and the finest raw materials which lends Speyside whisky a special place in the heart of so many.

Cask Speyside captures the spirit of the region in a series of single malts with great character. This first batch release was distilled at one of Scotland’s most prestigious distilleries, and exhibits all the soft, gentle hallmarks of a classic Speyside whisky.

Cask Speyside is a limited edition single malt release which has been matured for 10 years in refill bourbon casks. It fits neatly into A. D. Rattray’s portfolio alongside their other award-winning small batch single malts Cask Islay and Cask Orkney 18 Year Old.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Golden shimmer.

Nose: Zesty lemon, creamy vanilla fudge, subtle mint and jasmine blossom.

Palate: A silky texture exuding barley sugar and hazelnut, livened with cinnamon, and concluding with malt biscuit and black pepper.

Finish: Sweet, citrus fresh and silky smooth.

Information

700ml 46% Alc./Vol.

Non-chill filtered. Natural colour.

Available worldwide. Limited release.

www.adrattray.com/single-malts/cask-speyside

About A. D. Rattray

A.D. Rattray, an independent whisky company established in 1868, are renowned for selecting and maturing Scotland’s best casks of single malt whisky for their Cask Collection single cask range. Their whisky portfolio also includes the award-winning single malt brands Cask Islay, Cask Orkney and Stronachie. Based on the West Coast of Scotland, you can visit their 5 star visitor attraction and home of their brands, the A. D. Rattray Whisky Experience and Shop in Kirkoswald, Ayrshire.

IRISH DISTILLERS WINS ITS STRONGEST-EVER HAUL OF MEDALS AT THE

SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION 2019

– Strong start to the awards season underpinned by success at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge –  

Irish Distillers, the makers of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has scooped a remarkable 11 Double Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019 – the strongest-ever haul for the family of Irish whiskeys crafted at Midleton Distillery, County Cork.

The prestigious competition honoured the Jameson family with six Double Gold medals – including for new release, Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength – while the Redbreast and Midleton ranges collected three and two Double Gold medals respectively. Redbreast 12 Year Old Cask Strength claimed its fourth double gold medal in a row, continuing the Redbreast legacy as the most decorated single pot still Irish whiskey in the world.

Success in San Francisco followed stand-out performances for the Midleton portfolio at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge earlier this month, where new whiskeys Red Spot and Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength stole the show – scoring 98 and 97 points respectively. Following a near-perfect score, Red Spot – which was re-introduced in November 2018 after 50 years – was awarded the Chairman’s Trophy for the single pot still Irish whiskey category.

Commenting on the strong start to the 2019 awards season, Master Distiller Brian Nation commented: “We are delighted to see such excellent results for Irish Distillers, with recognition at the highest level right across the portfolio. The results are a true reflection of the passion, innovation and determination of the talented team at Midleton and hopefully signal the beginning of an exciting awards season. We look forward to further success throughout 2019!” 

Founded in 2000, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition is one of the oldest spirits tasting competitions of its kind. With nearly two decades of experience, they have fine-tuned their operation blending passion and professionalism. A blind tasting process guarantees that every entry is judged fairly and given equal consideration.

The Ultimate Beverage Challenge is one of the definitive spirits and wine evaluation companies in the world. Its two world-class competitions, Ultimate Spirits Challenge and Ultimate Wine Challenge, provide unparalleled value, offering results that are reliable and easily understandable in today’s marketplace.

Notes  

Full results from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019:

• Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition – Double Gold Medal
• Jameson Crested Irish Whiskey – Double Gold Medal
• Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey – Double Gold Medal
• Jameson 18 Year Old Irish Whiskey – Double Gold
• Jameson Bow Street 18 Year Old Irish Whiskey – Double Gold
• Jameson Cooper’s Croze Irish Whiskey – Double Gold
• Midleton Very Rare 2018 Irish Whiskey – Double Gold
• Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest Single Pot Still – Double Gold
• Redbreast Lustau Single Pot Still – Double Gold
• Redbreast 12 Year Old Cask Strength – Double Gold
• Redbreast 21 Year Old Single Pot Still – Double Gold
• Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition – Gold Medal
• Jameson Signature Irish Whiskey – Gold Medal
• Jameson Blender’s Dog Irish Whiskey – Gold Medal
• Red Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey – Gold Medal
• Redbreast 15 Year Old Single Pot Still – Gold Medal
• Powers John’s Lane 12 Year Old Irish Whiskey – Gold Medal
• Jameson Irish Whiskey – Silver Medal
• Jameson Distiller’s Safe – Silver Medal
• Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey – Silver Medal
• Yellow Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey – Silver Medal
• Redbreast 12 Year Old Single Pot Still – Silver Medal
• Powers Three Swallow Release Single Pot Still – Silver Medal
• Powers Gold Label Irish Whiskey – Silver Medal

Full results from the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2019:

• Red Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey – 98 Chairman’s Trophy
• Redbreast Cask Strength 12 Years Old Single Pot Still – 97 Tried & True Award
• Jameson Bow Street Cask Strength (Batch 1) 18 Years Old – 97 Chairman’s Trophy
• Jameson 18 Years Old – 96 Tried & True Award
• Redbreast 21 Years Old Single Pot Still– 96 Tried & True Award
• Redbreast 15 Years Old Single Pot Still– 95 Tried & True Award
• Powers John’s Lane 12 Years Old Single Pot Still – 95 Finalist
• Jameson Black Barrel– 94 Finalist
• Green Spot Chateau Montelena Single Pot Still – 94 finalist
• Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition  – 94 finalist
• Redbreast Lustau Edition Single Pot Still – 94  Tried & True Award
• Powers Gold Label Blended – 93 finalist
• Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest Single Pot Still  – 93
• Green Spot Chateau Leoville Barton Single Pot Still  – 93
• Yellow Spot Single Pot Still  – 93
• Jameson Signature Blended  – 92
• Jameson Cooper’s Croze  – 92
• Jameson Blender’s Dog – 92
• Midleton Very Rare 2018  – 92
• Powers Three Swallow Release  – 92
• Jameson Crested – 89
• Jameson Distiller’s Safe  – 89
• Jameson Blended Irish Whiskey – 89
• Redbreast 12 Years Old Single Pot Still – 87
• Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition  – 86 

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and producer 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 29 years of consecutive growth and hitting sales of 7.3m cases in 2018. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 80 of those experiencing double- or triple-digit growth.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. Since 2012, we have invested over €250m to double our production 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.

Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.

Whisky creator Gordon & MacPhail releases rare Coleburn single malt in Spring Collection

The 38-year-old whisky is the latest addition to the ‘Private Collection’ range

Single malt whisky creator Gordon & MacPhail has announced its Spring Collection, unveiling a series of stunning whiskies which draw upon the unrivalled depth and breadth of knowledge the company has gained from maturing spirit from over 100 Scottish distilleries.

One of the highlights of the Spring Collection is the Gordon & MacPhail 1981 from Coleburn Distillery which is the latest edition to the ‘Private Collection’ range.  This exceptional whisky has been maturing in the company’s specially selected cask at its warehouse in Elgin for 38 years. Spirit from Coleburn Distillery – mothballed in 1985 – was traditionally used in blending but Gordon & MacPhail carefully matched the spirit with a refill Sherry hogshead  to create this extraordinary and very rare single malt.

Hidden from sight behind a rich green landscape, Coleburn Distillery was founded in 1897 in Longmorn, five miles south of Elgin in Speyside. Designed by renowned architect Charles Doig, who also designed the Gordon & MacPhail retail shop in Elgin, the distillery was one of many that closed its doors during a challenging period for the whisky industry in the 1980s.

Laid down on 11^th March 1981 to mature in cask 476, Gordon & MacPhail 1981 from Coleburn Distillery was bottled at 55.9% ABV on 14^th March 2019. With a distinct mahogany hue, the new release has rich flavours of Sherry-soaked fruit, liquorice, and dark chocolate, and a long finish brimming with toffee notes and a hint of smoke.

Only 101 bottles will be available for purchase worldwide, representative of the unique nature of all ‘Private Collection’ releases.

Established in 1895, Gordon & MacPhail has a worldwide reputation for creating exquisitely rare single malts that have featured spirit from over 100 distilleries across Scotland. Due to the foresight of four generations of the Urquhart family, owners of Gordon & MacPhail, the company is currently maturing spirit from 26 mothballed or closed distilleries, including Coleburn Distillery, in its fabled warehouse.

Stephen Rankin, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Prestige and member of the fourth generation of the Urquhart family, said: “Our mantra has always been to ‘do right by the whisky’; recognising when it has reached its ultimate peak and then bottling it regardless of commercial pressures or notable birthdays. Brought to you as a rare single malt, this 38-year-old release exhibits the true spirit of the Coleburn Distillery. My grandfather, George Urquhart, was always keen to champion the quality of the new-make from previously unheralded distilleries and this remarkable whisky perfectly exemplifies his vision. It’s one to celebrate and savour.”

Gordon & MacPhail 1981 from Coleburn Distillery will be available for purchase worldwide from selected specialist retailers* (UK RRP £1,250**).

Two more notable whiskies from the 2019 Spring Collection include Connoisseurs Choice 1998 from Glenburgie (UK RRP £136). With just 245 bottles available, this whisky offers a unique opportunity to own a 20-year-old whisky which is rarely bottled as a single malt. Connoissuers Choice 2006 from Ledaig Distillery offers a striking whisky which has been carefully crafted using peated new-make spirit, expertly paired with a specially selected first-fill Sherry hogshead (UK RRP £73).

For more information on the Spring Collection, please visit***

https://www.gordonandmacphail.com/our-whiskies/ranges/spring-collection/)

#GordonandMacPhail

* Gordon & MacPhail 1981 from Coleburn Distillery won’t be available for purchase in the US.

**Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties.

***When it goes live.

Notes 

Tasting Notes

Gordon & MacPhail 1981 from Coleburn Distillery (Private Collection)

55.9% ABV, outturn of 101 bottles, UK RRP of £1,250.

Matured in cask no. 476, a first fill Sherry hogshead.

Colour: Mahogany.

Aroma: Sherry-soaked fruit aromas with a touch of beeswax polish. Juicy black cherries drizzled with rich caramel leads into fresh coffee with a subtle smokiness.

Taste: Dark chocolate, coffee, and ripe plums. Dried fruits and sherry-soaked cherries, reminiscent of rich fruitcake. Subtle flavours of oak and liquorice emerge with a slight nuttiness.

Finish: Long; rich fruitcake, coffee, and toffee notes evolve into leather with a hint of smoke.

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.

WHISKY FANS TREATED TO ULTIMATE MONTH OF MALTS WITH THE SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY FESTIVAL TOUR

The iconic whisky club will take show on the road to Speyside, Campbeltown and Islay 

May is a month to celebrate for whisky lovers, with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) taking its colourful events and characterful cask strength whisky to the Speyside, Campbeltown and Islay festivals.

The whisky experts, with branches and members across the world, have an extensive programme of events and an exceptional range of special celebratory bottlings.

The Society will begin its festival tour at the start of May at the Spirit of Speyside festival (1 – 6 May), before its first appearance at the Campbeltown Malts Festival (21 – 22 May) and finishing at the renowned Feis Ile, the Islay Festival of Music and Malt (24 May – 1 June).

Firstly, the Society’s Speyside shenanigans will include partnering with whisky writers Hans Offringa, Charlie MacLean and Dave Broom to host a series of events at the Dowan’s and Craigellachie hotels as well as hosting a special drop-in bar with rare drams.

There will be a series of exclusive Spirit of Speyside bottlings available at the festival and then on sale to members from Friday, 3 May. This will feature an 11-year-old from the Sweet, Fruity & Mellow flavour profile and a 21-year-old named ‘Succulent, scintillating and substantial’.

In the West of Scotland later in the month, the SMWS will be taking over the Ardshiel Hotel in Campbeltown from Tuesday, 21 May, with celebratory malts available throughout.

The Campbeltown festival experience will also be shared with the Society’s global membership through a virtual tasting, meaning if they can’t attend in person they can take part in the event with fellow whisky enthusiasts online. For more information on the Campbeltown virtual tasting, visit; https://bit.ly/2HXEp9P

Ambassadors John McCheyne and Matt Bailey will join forces to taste drams of exclusive festival whisky live from Campbeltown, which will be broadcast to members via Facebook.

For the first time, there will be a dedicated SMWS bottling specially for the Campbeltown Festival, which will be a Lightly Peated 10-year-old whisky with lovely sweet mellow notes backed up with peatiness to give it added complexity.

An essential fixture in any whisky fan’s diary is Feis Ile, the annual Islay Festival of Music and Malt, where distilleries and venues across this magical whisky island open their doors for tastings and events.

Much like previous years, the SMWS will be hosting a variety of events throughout the festival and producing an exclusive range of bottles, kicking-off with its open day in the splendid surroundings of Islay House, where members and non-members alike are all welcome.

In what promises to be a memorable experience for members, the Society is also hosting a ‘Tour de Islay’, which will see a peloton of whisky fans cycle around the island, stopping off at each of the nine distilleries and collecting stamps as they go. For information on how to sign-up, contact unfiltered@smws.com.

In between masterclasses, guests can also fulfil any fantasies of taking part in a Highland Games with two rounds of Islay-inspired games on the grounds of Islay House, which will include hi-jinks, soft landings, and liquid gold prizes for the winners.

The coveted Islay Festival bottlings for 2019, which range from 10 to 27-years-old and include four different cask types, will go on sale to members on Friday, 24 May. The first is called ‘Cuquillo black olives’, and is a full-term bourbon maturation of unpeated spirit, giving it an Oily & Coastal character. By contrast, there’s no mistaking the Heavily Peated character of ‘Cooking for Hades’, which has spent eight years in an ex-bourbon hogshead.

Those looking for a big bruising Peated Islay dram should be delighted by ‘A beachcomber’s stash’, whereas the final bottle, named ‘A visceral, elemental experience’ is incredibly dark, fruity, smoky and sweet.

For more information on SMWS membership, festival bottles and activities, visit www.smws.com

Notes:

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 26,000 members and branches around the world
• The SMWS bottles rare single cask, single malt whisky, and a range of other spirits
• The Society bottles single malts, unique single casks and exclusive blends
• The Society has bottled whisky from more than 138 distilleries from Scotland and beyond
• The Society offers a new batch of around 30 single cask, single malt whiskies every month
• The Society offers a variety of membership’s 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

Rebel Yell^® Launches New Look for Brand Lineup

Bourbon brand releases packaging enhancements and new variant 

BARDSTOWN, KY (April 22, 2019) – Rebel Yell Kentucky Straight Bourbon has a new look for its brand lineup. The updated packaging reinforces the brand’s rebellious spirit and elevates the brand’s look, bridging the gap between its proud heritage and modern tastes. The new bottle features an embossed rounded shoulder in addition to a revised front and back label. The new bottle is topped with a matted capsule closure and a natural cork, further enhancing the packaging, which was designed by David Cole.

“By adding the new capsule closure with hints of silver and updating the label with bolder lettering, the new Rebel Yell look aligns with the brand attitude,” says Eric Winter, whiskey brand manager at Luxco.

“The glass embossing on the bottle also adds a tactile component to the consumer’s experience, further elevating the overall look of the package,” adds designer David Cole.

The new packaging will roll out in April and will apply to the full family lineup including Rebel Yell Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Rebel Yell Straight Rye, Rebel Yell Root Beer and Rebel Yell Ginger.

Brand Launches New Variant 

In addition to the new packaging, the brand is launching a new variant this year: Rebel Yell Kentucky Straight Bourbon 100 proof. This whiskey – crafted according to the original time-honored recipe with a smooth ‘wheated’ mash bill – features honey, vanilla and caramel notes followed by oaky tones and a deep, warm finish. This whiskey will also have the new brand packaging enhancements and has an SRP of $19.99.

“Our traditional 80 proof Rebel Yell is an approachable bourbon, softer on the palate than the new 100 proof Rebel Yell, which brings a bit more bite in the finish,” says John Rempe, head distiller at Lux Row Distillers. “We wanted to offer consumers a higher proof option in this brand family, and this bourbon holds up well with balance of smoothness and flavor, whether providing fuller flavor in a cocktail or as a sipper”.

Award-winning Rebel Yell 10 Year Single Barrel Also Available for 2019 

This year, Rebel Yell 10 Year Single Barrel will also be available nationwide in a very limited allocation once again. This year, about 2,600 cases of this highly-acclaimed bourbon will be available in its original packaging, 750ml bottle sold in individual boxes. A limited amount will be available for sale at the Lux Row Distillers gift shop as well. 

ABOUT LUX ROW DISTILLERS

Real roots, real family, real products: Lux Row Distillers – a new bourbon distillery experience on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail – is a family-owned venture, bringing the Lux family history and spirits tradition to the bourbon industry. Lux Row Distillers is the home of Luxco’s bourbon brands, including Rebel Yell, Blood Oath, David Nicholson and Ezra Brooks Kentucky Straight Bourbons.

Located in the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky, the 18,000-square foot Lux Row Distillers includes a visitor center, barrel warehouses, a tasting room, and event space, making for an all-encompassing bourbon experience. The 90-acre property is home to an 18^th century stone house – which is registered as a National Historic Place – and a long, tree-lined driveway providing a scenic entrance to the distillery.

For more information about the distillery, visit www.luxrowdistillers.com. You can also like Lux Row Distillers on Facebook at www.facebook.com/luxrowdistillers or follow the distillery on Instagram @luxrowdistillers.

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.