Angels’ Nectar Whisky Caching returns for the 20th Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

Similar to geo-caching, but with whisky,  a trail of  Angels’ Nectar Whisky Caches will be hidden across Speyside during the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. Guests will be able to find the whisky filled caches via a series of clues after registering for the event via the Spirit of Speyside web site. The first to find each Angels’ Nectar Whisky Cache will be rewarded with a 200ml bottles of Angels’ Nectar Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, perfect for sharing.

Whilst there is no charge to take part, whisky cachers are asked to leave a whisky miniature (or better!) in place of the dram they find. Thus everyone who finds an Angels’ Nectar Whisky Cache will be a winner.

Geo-caching is a worldwide treasure-hunting phenomenon, which started in 2000 and has grown to encompass more than three million caches across 190 countries. The Angels’ Nectar version does not require GPS, but as the search for the caches will involve some light walking, outdoor clothing and footwear are recommended. The caches will also contain a logbook for participants to record their visit, and guests are invited to share their experience and tasting notes of the dram they find on social media, with #angelsnectarwhiskycache

Commenting on the event, Robert Ransom, Angels’ Nectar founder said, ‘We hope Angels’ Nectar Whisky Caching will encourage festival goers to explore Speyside’s beautiful countryside and discover new drams. Whilst there is no need to have been geo-caching before, for the whisky loving geo-cacher, what could be better than a trail of Angel’s share inspired whisky filled caches.’

Angels’ Nectar Whisky Caching is one of more than 650 events due to take place across Speyside as part of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, which this year runs from the 1^st to the 6^th of May. In addition Angels’ Nectar will be offering complimentary tasting sessions at Elephants in the Pantry, Grantown-on-Spey, on the 4^th of May and at Brodie Countryfare, Forres, on the 5^th of May.  

Notes:

Angels’ Nectar, blended malts inspired by the Angels’ share, was launched by Grantown-on-Spey based Highfern Ltd in 2014.

www.angelsnectar.co.uk

www.twitter.com/angelsnectar

www.facebook.com/angelsnectarwhisky

www.spiritofspeyside.com #dram19
For more information and pictures please contact;
Robert Ransom, Highfern Ltd, robert@highfern.co.uk Mobile: 07811 640778

Irish Whiskey for St. Patrick’s Day ~ Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye

What makes Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye noteworthy? 

• RYE!! Paying tribute to the golden age of Irish whiskey in the late-1800s, this is the only modern Irish whiskey of record to feature such a high quantity of rye within its mash: a mash of malt, barley, and approximately 30% rye*.

• Double distilled to 86 proof in Kilbeggan’s copper pot stills – one of which is the oldest working whiskey pot still in the world today – Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye is the first of its kind in today’s market.

• It is the first whiskey 100% distilled and matured at the Kilbeggan Distillery, Ireland’s oldest continually licensed distillery, to be released since its restoration was completed in 2010.

• Although Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye was conceived as a pot still Irish whiskey, it breaks the technical definition of “pot still,” which is: a mashbill that is at least 30% malted barley, at least 30% unmalted barley, and no more than 5% of any other cereal. Since this whiskey is comprised of 30% rye and exceeds the 5% limit, even though it is distilled in copper pot stills, it cannot technically be called a pot still Irish whiskey. However, it displays many of the same characteristics of traditional pot still Irish whiskey, such as its spicy flavor and creamy texture, which are accentuated even further by the rye.

*History lesson – back in the late-1800s, many large Irish distillers used rye in their mashes. However, this spicy grain virtually disappeared from the Irish Whiskey category around the time of Prohibition and the Irish War of Independence.

As we celebrate St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, we also celebrate the spirit of the Kilbeggan community, who unwavering dedication and perseverance has kept the distillery alive for more than 260 years.

While we like to enjoy Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye neat due to its mellow and spicy character, this March 17^th, we’ll be toasting St. Patrick and the Kilbeggan community with the Kilbeggan Rye Old Fashioned: 2 parts Kilbeggan® Rye, 2 dashes aromatic bitters, and a bar spoon of simple syrup or cinnamon syrup. Combine ingredients in a mixing glass, add ice, and stir briefly. Serve over a large ice cube and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

Double distilled and matured in Ireland’s oldest continually licensed distillery, Kilbeggan® Small Batch Rye is an innovation that pays tribute to the golden age of Irish whiskey. Kilbeggan Distilling Company celebrates the limited-edition release of Kilbeggan®Small Batch Rye, the only modern Irish whiskey of record to feature such a high quantity of rye within its mash.It is the first whiskey 100% distilled and matured at the Kilbeggan Distillery to be released since its restoration was completed in 2010.Each bottle is a testament to the spirit of the Kilbeggan community, whose unwavering dedication and perseverance have kept the distillery alive for more than 260 years.“Following the restoration of the Kilbeggan Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland, our team was inspired to create this remarkable whiskey rooted in Irish distilling heritage,” says John Cashman, Beam Suntory Global Brand Ambassador, Irish Whiskey. “It is a truly unique spirit, featuring a rare mash that has produced aflavor unlike anything available today.” Featuring a mash of malt, barley, and approximately 30% rye, this whiskey hearkens back to the late-1800s, when many large Irish distillers used rye in their mashes. However, this spicy grain virtually disappeared from the Irish Whiskey category around the time of Prohibition and the Irish War of Independence. Double distilled to 86 proof in Kilbeggan’s copper pot stills–one of which is the oldest working whiskey pot still in the world today–Kilbeggan®Small Batch Rye is the first of its kind in today’s market. Due to the nature of its mash, the flavor profile of Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye is notably softer than familiar American rye whiskies. The combination of rye, malt and barley produces an oily, viscous, creamy whiskey, bristling with rye and barley spice. As both Irish whiskey and rye whiskey enjoy a resurgence, Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye is a true innovation within both categories, with a smooth, spicy flavor profile sure to excite whiskey drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.Due to its mellow and spicy character, Kilbeggan® Small Batch Rye is best enjoyed neat. If using this whiskey in a cocktail, we recommend an Old Fashioned: 2 parts Kilbeggan® Rye, 2 dashes aromatic bitters, and a bar spoon of simple syrup or cinnamon syrup. Combine ingredients in a mixing glass, add ice, and stir briefly. Serve over a large ice cube and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

Kilbeggan Small Batch Rye, 43% alc./Vol. It joins the U.S. portfolio along side permanent expressions Kilbeggan®Blended Irish Whiskey (40%ABV) and Kilbeggan®Single Grain Irish Whiskey(43% ABV). KILBEGGAN®SMALL BATCH RYE| 43% ABV AROMA Soft green fruits combine with a rich creamy aroma and give way to white pepper, citrus,and soft ginger spices TASTE Beautiful warming mouthfeel of textured vanilla cream, floral spice, clove,and forest sorrel, building to a crescendo of warm spice and biscuit dryness FINISH Immensely long and nuanced, thick buttery coating with a return to the vanilla and a spicy, oily coating that remains long after the finish

About Beam Suntory Inc. As the world’s third largest premium spirits company, Beam Suntory is Crafting the Spirits Brands that Stir the World.Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands and Suntory whisky Kakubin, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek bourbon, Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki Japanese whiskies, Teacher’s, Laphroaig, and Bowmore Scotch whiskies, Canadian Club whisky, Courvoisier cognac, Hornitos and Sauza tequila, EFFEN and Pinnacle vodka, Sipsmith gin, and Midori liqueur.Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company witha deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and commitment to Growing for Good. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.comand

Brown-Forman Expands Coopers’ Craft with New Barrel Reserve Expression

The bourbon that honors barrel-making heritage kicks-off 2019 with launch of robust new bourbon and expands into new markets

Louisville, KY, January 14, 2019 – Brown-Forman is pleased to announce the expansion of Coopers’ Craft Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with the launch of a new expression, Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve. Introduced in 2016 as Brown-Forman’s newest bourbon brand in 20 years, Coopers’ Craft bourbon will expand in 2019 with the introduction of the 100-proof Barrel Reserve, launch into four new states, and an updated package design for the original Coopers’ Craft bourbon.

Honoring the men and women who raise the barrels, Coopers’ Craft celebrates the company’s more than 70 years of barrel-making and wood expertise as the only major distiller that owns its own new barrel cooperage. Both bourbons begin with the same spirit but are aged using different wood techniques from the barrel resulting in final products with distinctively different flavor profiles – ranging from light and gentle to bold and robust.

The original Coopers’ Craft bourbon is aged in a traditional American White Oak barrel. After it is aged, the bourbon runs through a special beech and birch charcoal filter finishing process, creating a smooth and gentle bourbon that is bottled at 82.2-proof. In contrast, Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve is aged in a unique chiseled and charred American White Oak barrel that allows the whiskey to interact more deeply with the wood, creating a robust and more complex flavor profile.

“Kentucky bourbon is famous around the world for its maturation in new, charred oak barrels,” said Brown-Forman Master Distiller Chris Morris. “Consumers will be able to experience the distinctive taste that this tradition delivers in the only bourbon that celebrates the barrel crafting art.”

The roll out begins in January (varying by market) with the expansion of the Coopers’ Craft bourbon from the original eight markets (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee) to new markets that include Ohio, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.  Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve will launch in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Simultaneously, existing fans of the original Coopers’ Craft bourbon will notice the same light amber liquid dressed in a new label and navy Coopers’ Craft logo demonstrating the brand’s commitment to innovation. Its current bottle with rounded edges as well as what’s inside will remain the same, while the Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve package will boast a more premium look with square shoulders, light color label, cork closure, and strip seal showcasing an image of the Brown-Forman Cooperage with copper detailing. Both bottles will have a back label inviting consumers to tour the historic Cooperage and meet the barrel makers. Coopers’ Craft bourbon will be available in markets for a suggested retail price ranging from $21.99 to $24.99 for a 750ml bottle, and Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve will be available at a suggested retail price ranging from $29.99 to $32.99 for a 750ml bottle.

“Coopers’ Craft is a celebration of barrel-making and recognition of the importance of wood when it comes to crafting bourbon,” says Heather Howell, director of Coopers’ Craft bourbon for Brown-Forman. “We’re incredibly excited to present our new Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve expression, along with our original Coopers’ Craft bourbon, to a wider audience with a completely fresh look but the same delicious liquid.”

Coopers’ Craft Original 82. 2 Proof Tasting Notes

Nose: Light toasted and fresh oak character mingle with baked apple sweetness and a citrus custard.

Taste: A true sipping bourbon with soft lemon custard and baked apple notes layered over a bed of toasted and fresh oak character seasoned with a light dusting of spice.

Finish: Rich and smooth with lingering hints of fruit.

Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve 100 Proof Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh hewn oak with hints of smoke and char are spiced with hints of cinnamon and leather atop a layer of orchard and citrus fruit.  Sweetened with a sprinkling of vanilla wafer crumbs.

Taste: Caramel and cotton candy coat fresh apple, pear and citrus fruit atop vanilla wafers dusted with sharp cinnamon.

Finish: Assertive cinnamon spice softens to a lingering apple and clean oak note. 

About Coopers’ Craft Bourbon

Coopers’ Craft is a celebration of Brown-Forman’s more than 70 years of expertise raising its own barrels at Brown-Forman Cooperage. Drawing inspiration from the craft of raising barrels Coopers’ Craft offers a range of expressions leveraging our barrel making expertise. Coopers’ Craft is a product of Brown-Forman Corporation, a premier producer and marketer of fine quality beverage alcohol brands including Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, Finlandia, Korbel, el Jimador, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, Canadian Mist, Herradura, New Mix, Sonoma-Cutrer, Early Times, Chambord, BenRiach, GlenDronach and Slane. Twitter @coopers_craft • Instagram @cooperscraft • Facebook /CoopersCraftBourbon

Coopers’ Craft Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 41.1% Alc. by Vol., Produced and Bottled by Brown-Forman Beverages, Louisville, Kentucky ©2019.

Please drink responsibly.

#ardbeg #untamed #islay

Ardbeg invites smoky malt fans to join together in a day of rumbustious revelry

— Celebrate Islay’s rich history of carnivals with a flamboyant Caribbean twist.

Join in the festivities at around the UK for Ardbeg Day 2019 —

Every year, on Ardbeg Day – the last Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt, whisky fans gather to celebrate all things Ardbeg. For 2019, Ardbeg is preparing to close out the Feis Ile like never before. In a spectacular Caribbean twist, Ardbeggians everywhere are invited to swap their flat caps for elaborate headdresses as Ardbeg Day embraces a dash of carnival colour.

This year, the Distillery is resurrecting the island’s carnival traditions. In an Islay time gone by on the last day of the Feis Ile Festival, locals transformed everything from tractors to tricycles into magnificent floats. If it had wheels, they decorated it. Honking and tooting its way through Port Ellen and eventually to Ardbeg, this typically Islay cavalcade of colour represents a long-standing love for festivity on the island.

Ardbeg Day will be held on Saturday, 1st June 2019. Inspired by Islay’s rich history of carnivals, Ardbeg will release Ardbeg Drum – a limited edition bottling imbued with the ultimate influence of carnival spirit, rum. In a first for the Distillery, Ardbeg have taken Ardbeg single malt from ex-Bourbon casks and rested it awhile in ex-rum casks from the Americas to coax out tropical tastes.

Distillery Manager Mickey Heads said: “The Ardbeg Day Carnival is about embracing all things tropical. From music and dance to food and fashion, we’re all set to revel in both culture and character. And we’re delighted to introduce Ardbeg Drum – a celebration of all of the mixed up, mashed up influences that make Ardbeg, Ardbeg.

“In Ardbeg Drum, a multitude of complex flavours parade across the palate – fragrant pine resin and woodsmoke dance alongside ripe banana and pineapple. Then lavender, liquorice and vanilla strut into a long, smoky finish.”

“Preparations are well underway, but orchestrating a bash this breathtaking is no mean feat. The finer details are yet to be revealed, but rest assured, the Ardbeg Day Carnival 2019 will be a spectacle you won’t soon forget…”

Like all Ardbeg Days, the carnival crowds won’t just be gathering on Islay. Ardbeggians the world over will join in the rumbustious revelry as Ardbeg Drum is introduced in a flourish of confetti and streamers. Smoky malt lovers should remember that The Ardbeg Day Carnival is open to everybody, so feel free to grab some friends and enjoy the spectacle en masse.

The Committee bottling of Ardbeg Drum will go on sale on 5th March, RRP: £94, exclusively available to purchase only by Committee Members, who will receive a link to purchase their own special bottle. The main Ardbeg Drum bottling will be released just ahead of Ardbeg Day.

For more information about Ardbeg Day celebrations in the weeks ahead, visit www.ardbeg.com

www.ardbeg.com

Follow us on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ardbeg
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg_com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ardbeg/

NOTES 

Ardbeg Day: Every year, the Islay Festival of Malt and Music takes place in May or June on Ardbeg’s island home. On the Festival’s final Saturday, the Distillery would traditionally throw open its doors to welcome fans from all over the world – an event that became known as Ardbeg Day. In 2012 Ardbeg Day became a global event, enabling the whisky’s passionate international following to take part in a worldwide celebration of all things Ardbeg in their own country. Recent Ardbeg Day themes have included the Islay-limpics and the Peat Football World Cup, while in 2017, the Distillery revealed the incredible depth of the first Ardbeg to be matured in Black Sea casks with Ardbeg Kelpie. For 2018, Ardbeg Day became the Ardbeg Festival of Peat & Love as the world celebrated Ardbeg’s ‘grooviest’ casks ever.

Tasting notes: Ardbeg Drum is non chill-filtered and bottled at 46% ABV.

Colour: Dark Gold

Nose: In Drum, fragrant pine resin and woodsmoke dance alongside ripe banana and pineapple in a downright wondrous paradiddle of aromas, before parading into smoked apples and dry cocoa powder. Distant ginger, spiced dates and cinnamon sway into floating notes of lavender.

Taste: On the palate, waves of smoke, tar and creosote cascade into a dry peppery mouthfeel. Clove, liquorice and ginger strut towards rich notes of dark chocolate and smoked vanilla.

Finish: Intense smoke, roasted coffee liqueur and a treasure trove of sweet spices come together in one deliciously complex crescendo.

Ardbeg:
Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky. Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as among the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts. Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’. During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction. Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following.

Ardbeg Committee:
The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee. The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”. Today there are members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 130 countries. Committee members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings. Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events. The Committee, chaired by Distillery Manager Mickey Heads, is free to join at ardbeg.com.

Awards:
Ardbeg is the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whisky. Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions. Ardbeg was voted ‘Scotch Whisky of the Year’ twice by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible (2008, 2009) and has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 2013). At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’. In 2016, Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Ardbeg Uigeadail were awarded gold medals the the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The following year, Ardbeg Kelpie won World Whisky of the Year at the International Whisky Competition. While in 2018, alongside many more whisky awards, the Ardbeg distillery was awarded Distillery of the Year at the International Whisky Competition.

The Glenmorangie Company:
The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt.

High-Flying Packaging

A high-end packaging solution to house a particularly exceptional brand; IPL Packaging created a premium box to house a specially crafted crystal bottle with custom-designed eagle stopper for Double Eagle, Very Rare bourbon whisky.

LB Odendaal, IPL Packaging Design and Innovations Manager, explains more regarding the pack design, “We understood that the packaging for Double Eagle, Very Rare, a distinctive new expression crafted by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky USA, would be the consumer’s first tangible experience with this super-premium brand. It therefore needed to convey a message as unique as the product within it,” explains “We ultimately looked to produce something that would glorify the brand, convey an image of sophistication and value and also tell a ‘luxury story’,” he says.

The result is a showstopper: a high-gloss black lacquered MDF box with aluminium double-door panels, engraved and inlaid with a design resembling eagle feathers, supplied by the client, and complementing the black silkscreen ink-filled logo.

Both the custom-designed bottle and stopper are housed separately in the box, with the eagle shaped stopper mirroring the eagle arising from the interior bottom of the bottle. Upon opening the double doors of the box, both items are illuminated by LED lamps. These also highlight the rich, wonderful colour of bourbon itself.

“Sliding on custom-designed metal rails, with the left hand door hiding a secret compartment containing brand information, the packaging has been designed to enrich the user experience – with the real ‘wow factor’ being the illumination element of the box,” says Odendaal, who explains that the box interior is lined in a tactile grey fabric with black felt at the bottom of the box.

The packaging was designed in such a way that it portrays a sense of reputation and prestige befitting both the brand and its creators; no distillery has earned more domestic and international accolades than Buffalo Trace. Writers, enthusiasts and spirits competitions around the globe have awarded more than 500 accolades to its brands, with the title of ‘world’s most award-winning distillery’ earned through the uncompromising dedication of craftsmen for over 200 years.

Benromach starts 2019 in style with two rare and aged vintage expressions

Benromach Heritage 1972 and 1977 available worldwide 

The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd has announced the release of two Heritage expressions, Benromach Heritage 1977, an exclusive 41-year-old single cask vintage (49.6% abv) and Benromach Heritage 1972, a rare 46-year-old single cask vintage (55.7% abv).

Matured in single Refill American Hogsheads, these sought-after expressions are both available for worldwide sale from 21^st February 2019. Benromach Heritage 1977 offers a smooth dram with hints of spice, while Benromach Heritage 1972 is brimming with exotic fruit flavours leading to an ashy smoke finish.

Benromach Heritage 1977 displays flavours of warm apple pie, poached pear and hints of ginger, mixed with subtle floral notes complemented by rich apricot jam. Only 122 decanters of this single cask vintage were bottled from cask number 1269 on 8^th October 2018.

Also launching today, Benromach Heritage 1972 has a golden amber hue with a tempting nose of vanilla custard, honey and tropical fruits, with intriguing hints of mature oak and an edge of fresh menthol.  With lingering oak flavours and hints of smoke on the finish, just 75 decanters of this single cask vintage were bottled from cask number 4471 on 11^th December 2018.

Keith Cruickshank, Benromach Distillery Manager, said: “We’re proud to build on the popularity of previous Benromach vintage releases from the 1970s with these unique single cask bottlings that represent different moments in time from the distillery’s rich history.

“Through careful monitoring and regular sampling throughout the maturation process, these remarkable releases have been aged to over 40 years each. Both golden amber single malts are brimming with fruity flavours and subtle oak notes.  The release of these vintage expressions is an outstanding start to an exciting year for Benromach.”

Both expressions are beautifully presented in a decanter-style bottle with shapes and textures inspired by the distillery. The bottle has a copper-foil embossed label and nestles in a dark oak wooden box, representing the original washbacks at Benromach. The copper cut medallion on the packaging signifies the moment in time when the distillers cut to the sweet heart of the spirit run.

Benromach 1977 and 1972 will be available worldwide from 21^st February 2019. Benromach 1977 has a recommended retail price (RRP) of €1,500 (£1,250) while Benromach 1972 has an RRP of €1,750 (£1,500). Prices in local markets will 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 about Benromach, and to explore the range of expressions available, please visit: www.benromach.com.

Notes

Benromach Heritage 1977 Tasting Notes

First, lift your glass of Benromach Heritage 1977 to the light and appreciate the lustrous Golden Amber hue created by lingering for 41 years in a single Refill American Hogshead. Take a short inhalation, appreciating the wonderful aromas without water… enjoy the tantalising notes of warm apple pie, poached pear and hints of ginger, mingling with subtle floral notes complemented by rich apricot jam.

Now take a sip. Savour the notes of velvety crème brûlée beautifully balanced by undertones of warm pepper. Add a few drops of water and take time to enjoy the nose as it develops…  Vibrant citrus and floral aromas emerge, followed by fragrant vanilla.

Now lift it to your lips and enjoy a slow sip… Sweet heather honey and soft peaches mingle with smooth milk chocolate. Candied citrus peel leads to a touch of oak and tobacco on the finish.

Benromach Heritage 1972 Tasting Notes

First, lift your glass of Benromach Heritage 1972 to the light and appreciate the lustrous golden amber hue created by lingering for 46 years in a single Refill American Hogshead. Take a short inhalation and enjoy the tantalising notes of vanilla custard, honey and baked pineapple, mingling with intriguing hints of beeswax polish, mature oak and an edge of fresh menthol.

Savour the smooth sweetness beautifully balanced by a gentle dash of warm pepper. Add a few drops of water and take time to enjoy the nose as it develops with gorgeous aromas of exotic fruits come to the fore with top notes of toasted coconut and zingy lime.

Enjoy a slow sip, experiencing notes of tropical fruits which soften and mingle with hints of pear drops, leading to lingering oak notes and hints of ashy smoke on the finish.

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.

Award-winning Cotswolds Distillery releases limited edition whisky to raise money for Lord Mayor’s Appeal

• Limited edition Lord Mayor’s Reserve Single Malt Whisky launches to the general public
• 700ml bottles available exclusively from Cotswolds Distillery online shop with an RRP of £64.95

The Cotswolds Distillery is set to release a limited run of its Single Malt Whisky in homage to the 691^st Lord Mayor, Peter Estlin. Named Lord Mayor’s Reserve, the special cask has been created to help raise money for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal – a charity that aims to make London a more inclusive city.

The current Lord Mayor of London, Peter Estlin, is a keen whisky fan and part owner of the first full-scale whisky distillery in the Cotswolds. To create this special bottling several of his personal casks have been blended with the first ever release of a sherry cask-aged whisky.

A blend of first-fill bourbon and red wine casks from the Lord Mayor’s private reserve, with a touch of Pedro Ximenez-cask aged single malt whisky. The new-make spirit is matured to 63.5% ABV in the Lord Mayor’s ex-bourbon casks and shaved, toasted and re-charred American oak red wine barriques.

These three casks were blended in roughly equal measures and then re-casked for an additional month. The addition of the sherry cask has added a different layer of spice and fruit to the flagship single malt. The special bottle has been diluted to 46%, non-chill filtered and without any additional colouring.

Daniel Szor, Founder of the Cotswolds Distillery, said: “We’re really proud to make such a fine whisky for such a worthy cause on behalf of a prestigious distillery family member. We began making this release the same way as our flagship single malt but have been able to experiment and create a distinctive blend that we hope will help the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.”

Tasting notes include Seville orange, warming cinnamon notes, hazelnut and barley sugar with a dry and nutty finish, and lingering oak spice.

The limited edition Cotswolds Distillery Lord Mayor’s Reserve Single Malt Whisky is available exclusively from the distillery website with an RRP of £64.95.

Notes 

The Cotswolds Distillery

Located in Stourton, Shipston-on-Stour, the distillery has become a premier local attraction, offering tours and tastings daily, and now receives 30,000 visitors a year.

Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky was launched in October 2017. Each bottle lists the barley variety, harvest year and local Cotswolds farm it was grown on. It recently won Gold at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and took 2 stars (one of only two whiskies to do so) in the 2018 Great Taste Awards.

In Jim Murray’s 2019 Whisky Bible, the Cotswolds Distillery received 5 ‘Liquid Gold’ awards. Three of Cotswolds’ whiskies scored 95 points, with all of the distillery’s samples scoring over 88 out of 100.

Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky is available nationally and in 26 countries across the world. Key UK retailers include Waitrose & Partners, Majestic Wine, The Whisky Exchange, Harrods and Laithwaites.

The distillery also produces Cotswolds Dry Gin, which was named Best London Dry at the 2016 World Gin Awards and received the top Gold Outstanding award in the 2017 International Wine and Spirits Competition. Difford’s Guide recently ranked the Gin as one of the top 20 Gins available in a survey of 450 brands.

The Cotswolds Distillery featured at number 8 in report compiled by independent research agency Beauhurst and Syndicate Room revealing the 100 fastest-growing private companies in the UK.

Cotswolds Dry Gin is on sale nationally and in over 25 countries.  Key national accounts include Waitrose & Partners, Majestic, Oddbins Laithwaites, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, and Fortnum & Mason.

For more information, please visit www.cotswoldsdistillery.com.

Announcement – 6th Edition Scotch Whisky Advent Calendar on Indiegogo

This is the most important announcement we’ve ever made.

It’s been 5 years since Cindy and I created the first ever Scotch Whisky Advent Calendar.

To say that our journey has been a challenge would be understating it. Every step of the way we have had to push through

• Regulatory challenges
• Traditional retail industry apathy
• Hundreds of moving parts/logistics that make production always a hyper-stressful, last-minute affair

By the time everyone in the process gets their piece of the pie, we use the last Oliver-Twist-sized slice of cash to start the journey all over again.

We’re now at a point where we will NOT be able to make our 6th Edition Scotch Advent Calendar without help, so we are launching an Indiegogo campaign for 6th Edition orders (and other cool stuff too).

Every penny will help. If you want to join the Secret Spirits adventure in 2019, this will be the ONLY way to order the 6th Edition, and you will have ONLY 43 days to do so. We must receive enough orders to ensure we can actually get the Scotch and make the 6th Edition, and if we do, THEN we will only make as many as were ordered. So the 6th Edition will be sold out before it even gets made! And YOU will be part of a mighty exclusive club…

The 43 day campaign begins on March the 1st.

Even though we’ve always called our annual box of Scotch an “advent calendar”, presenting 25 days of Scotch from December 1st through Christmas Day, it is even more accurate to say simply each box has 25 doors.

As you know, our unique “packaging gamification” of rarer whiskies in larger bottles offers far more than just whiskies you’ve never tasted before and won’t taste again: they take you on an imaginative adventure.

The journey begins whenever you’re ready, and can last as long as you like. It’s the ultimate birthday, Christmas, anniversary and retirement gift for anyone who loves whisky.

We pack five years-worth of whisky tasting experience into every box, and every 50ml bottle has enough whisky in it for a few people to share the experience (or to just keep all for yourself).

Over the last 5 years, we have slowly built a community of people like YOU who have helped us continue to forge this brand new category in our industry. Through sheer passion for what we do and because of the happiness it brings people all over the world, Cindy and I have put everything on the line to continue to dream big and create magic.

We humbly ask for your help so we can continue that dream.

Jonathan and Cindy

Secret Spirits

www.secretspirits.com

*We will keep you in-the-loop when the campaign goes LIVE.
Mark March 1st on your calendar!

A SECOND BATCH OF JAMESON BOW STREET 18 YEARS CASK STRENGTH

UNVEILED AHEAD OF 2019 ST. PATRICK’S DAY

• The latest batch of Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength has been unveiled
• The pinnacle of the Jameson family finishes its maturation in Dublin’s only live Maturation House at Bow Street

Jameson Irish Whiskey, which is produced by Irish Distillers in Midleton Distillery, has announced that a second batch of Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength will be available from August 2019. The only cask strength Jameson to be available globally, the expression finishes its maturation in Dublin’s only live Maturation House in the Jameson Distillery Bow Street – celebrating Jameson’s Dublin heritage by returning a part of the production process to its original home in Smithfield.

Distilled and matured at the Midleton Distillery, Co. Cork, Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength is the head of the Jameson family. After spending 18 years in a collection of bourbon and sherry casks, the blend of pot still and grain Irish whiskeys has been married together and re-casked in first-fill ex-bourbon American oak barrels for a final six to 12 months in the Maturation House at the Jameson Distillery Bow Street.

‘Marrying’ is a traditional method of re-casking batches of vatted whiskey and re-warehousing it to ensure infusion before bottling. The second batch is presented at 55.1% ABV without the use of chill filtration and will be available in 20 markets from August 2019 at the RRP of €240.

To support the launch, Jameson has partnered with craft Dublin cheesemonger, Loose Canon, to inspire discerning whiskey drinkers to embark on a journey of flavour discovery through whiskey and cheese matching with the Jameson 18 family this St. Patrick’s Day. Each born from a traditional craft production method using careful maturation and offering complex and powerful flavour profiles, Jameson has created a suite of whiskey and cheese pairings and matching principles to encourage Jameson drinkers to get creative this March.

Billy Leighton, Master Blender at Midleton Distillery, commented: “I’ve long had the unique luxury of being able to taste Jameson straight from the barrel at cask strength. With Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength, I’m thrilled that Irish whiskey fans around the world can experience the full intensity of our whiskey or add a few drops of water to enjoy it at their own preferred strength.

“As a tribute to the Jameson distilling legacy in Smithfield, we’ve introduced some methods that would have been employed in days past. The final maturation period in Bow Street is our nod to the traditional “marrying” method. We’ve put our own Jameson stamp on it by using first-fill bourbon barrels, whereas the traditional approach would be to use casks multiple times. I like to think of the whiskey getting engaged in Midleton and then “married” in Dublin!”

Simon Fay, International Marketing Director at Irish Distillers, added: “While Jameson’s approachability has been key to its success, we had an opportunity with the launch of Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength last year to reinforce the more serious whiskey side of the brand’s heritage. Consumers are looking for increased choice in style and quality in Irish whiskey and Jameson, as the category leader, is committed to satisfying this appetite.

“On top of that, our research shows that consumers are increasingly looking for brand experiences and the reaction that we have had from consumers that have been able to experience the sounds, aroma and aura of a functioning maturation room in the heart of Dublin has been phenomenal. Our doors are open and we look forward to welcoming even more whiskey fans to taste a piece of whiskey history.”

Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength is presented in a premium bottle design that truly reflects the quality and rarity of the liquid within. The bottle features 18 facets, one for each year of maturation, and the wooden presentation box celebrates the traditional pot stills used during the production process. In addition, a unique copper coin located underneath Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength bottles provides Jameson fans with access to an exclusive online portal where they can delve deeper into the story of the whiskey which bears the Bow Street name.

Notes : 

Tasting notes by Billy Leighton, Master Blender at the Midleton Distillery:

Nose: Rich wood-driven influence with deep toffee notes and spice.

Taste: Toffee and oak remain consistent with hints of leather and vanilla along with a subtle sherry nuttiness creating depth and complexity.

Finish: Long and full with the sweet toffee notes slowly fading while the toasted oak and spice linger throughout until the very end

About Jameson 18 Years

Jameson 18 Years, presented at 40% ABV and first released 15 years ago, has become one of the world’s most respected and awarded Irish whiskeys and will remain in the Jameson family, available in key markets globally. Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength Batch One was launched in April 2018, with Batch Two launching in February 2019.

 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.

 rish 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.

Wemyss Malts launches new website and Cask Club with an exclusive 35 year old Caol Ila

Family whisky makers Wemyss Malts have relaunched wemyssmalts.com, a brand new website offering whisky fans the chance to join the Wemyss Malts Cask Club. Membership offers access to unique bottlings released solely to the members as well as preview purchases of the latest malt whisky releases.

The initial offering to the Cask Club is “Smoky Nectar” a 35 year old single hogshead cask from Caol Ila distillery.

The Wemyss Malts Cask Club can be joined at www.wemyssmalts.com/cask-club and the exclusive single cask Smoky Nectar, as well as other new blended malts, can be purchased through the exclusive Cask Club online shop.

William Wemyss, Founder and Managing Director at Wemyss Malts, commented:

“We have selected one very special bottling; a 35 year old Caol Ila named “Smoky Nectar” to be the first exclusive release to our Wemyss Malts Cask Club members. Anyone interested may join the club for free via the newly launched website. Whether you are a newcomer to whisky or an experienced imbiber the Wemyss Malts Cask Club also aims to delight and enlighten with regular features and competitions.”

As with all Wemyss Malts single cask bottlings; “Smoky Nectar” has been selected by the celebrated whisky writer Charlie Maclean and has been bestowed a descriptive name illustrating the whisky’s character. All 211 bottles have been bottled natural colour, non chill-filtered and at 46%abv. The 35 year old Islay whisky has been noted as a stunningly exquisite hogshead with a complex smoke character.

Notes:

• Edinburgh based Wemyss Malts is owned by the Wemyss family and their family seat is Wemyss Castle in Fife where they’ve lived since the 1300s.
• Wemyss Malts has a blended malt whisky range which in 2019 comprises of The Hive, Spice King, Peat Chimney, Nectar Grove Limited Edition and The Family Collection.
• The Wemyss family premium wines and spirits brands also include Lord Elcho blended Scotch whisky, the boutique Darnley’s Gin produced in Fife, Scotland, together with the premium wine estate of Rimauresq Cru Classé in Cotes de Provence.
• The family distillery Kingsbarns, near St. Andrews, Fife has recently launched its inaugural ‘The Founders’ Reserve’ and ‘Dream to Dram’ single malt. Founders’ Club membership is still available to join at www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com