To celebrate Benromach’s 20th anniversary, Benromach have been running an exciting prize draw on Instagram, asking fellow Benromach lovers to post their favourite Benromach photo memory using the #benromachmemories hashtag.

Have you toasted a special date with a dram of Benromach? Given a bottle to a loved one to show them you care? Maybe you’ve visited Benromach in Forres and spent time with the distillers, learning the traditional, time honoured techniques they employ to handcraft every dram. Whatever your Benromach memory, we can’t wait to see them.

The closing date for the competition is tomorrow at 2359hrs (BST) Friday 25th May

Entries will be judged by the Benromach Team and the winner will receive a bottle of Benromach 20th Anniversary Bottling worth £299 as their prize. Please note, if the winner and/or the runners up come from outside the UK, they will only receive their bottle/sample if they live in a country where Benromach has an official distributor. If the winner and/or runners up come from inside the UK, the bottle/sample will be sent out. Due to market allocation, this competition will exclude US consumers.

For more information and terms & conditions, please visit: https://www.benromach.com/news/benromachmemories

AUCHENTOSHAN^® IS RALLYING BARTENDERS TO JOIN ITS GLOBAL COLLECTIVE, THE NEW MALT ORDER

Auchentoshan is on the hunt for the best bartending talent to enter its global cocktail competition

May 2018: Auchentoshan^® is on a mission to find creative bartenders to join its international bartender collective as it announces the launch of its New Malt Order 2018 competition. Launched in 2016, the New Malt Order is a growing community of likeminded bartenders who share a passion for shaking up the world of single malts.

The urban malt from the city of Glasgow, is challenging entrants to create a cocktail that captures the essence of its triple distilled malt whisky and takes inspiration from the bartender’s home city. Successful bartenders will be given the once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit the home of Auchentoshan^® in Glasgow, be immersed in the city’s culture and create an exclusive liquid with Master Blender, Ron Welsh (pictured below). The winners will go behind the scenes at the distillery and select from casks, blend, bottle and even have their say on the final packaging of this rare and unique single malt.

THE ORIGINAL CITY MALT

This year Auchentoshan^® will celebrate its urban heritage and challenge bartenders to share their own city’s unique character captured in an Auchentoshan cocktail. The competition is now open and bartenders from the UK, Canada, Russia, Australia and Germany are being encouraged to enter via Instagram for a chance to become part of the New Malt Order global collective.

Judged by the best in the business, winners of this once in a lifetime experience will be announced this September. 

THE NEW MALT ORDER

Launched in 2016, The New Malt Order is not only a competition but a growing global community of passionate bartenders who are pushing boundaries, breaking rules and taking single malt whisky to new places and new faces.

TWO LIMITED EDITIONS

Bartenders’ Malt 01 | Released July 2017

In 2016, the inaugural 12 bartenders from some of the world’s best bars designed a punchy 47% ABV malt to stand-up in cocktails including Bobby Burns, Vieux Carré, and the classic Old Fashioned.

Colour: Gold- copper with subtle grassy reflections

Nose: Dried apricots, milk, chocolate, honey and green tobacco leaf

Palate: Delicate floral cherry blossom and buttery brioche undercut by zesty notes of ginger

Bartenders’ Malt 02 | Released later in 2018

Bartenders’ Malt 02, created by 2017’s cohort of international bartenders, will be released exclusively to the on-trade later in 2018.

Speaking about the upcoming release, Master Blender Ron Welsh, said: “We’ve put together a blend that matches their requirements as bartenders, so nice high strength and lots of flavour. It’s one of the best Auchentoshan^®’s I’ve ever tasted.”

Charles Roche from Scout in London, a member of The New Malt Order: “Being a member of the New Malt Order is amazing. It’s about blending a whisky by bartenders, for bartenders.”

Scott Milne, International Brand Manager, Beam Suntory: “We are excited and proud to announce that Auchentoshan^®’s New Malt Order competition is returning for the third consecutive year in 2018. We are passionate about building an army of single malt advocates and championing creative bartending on a global scale. We’re looking forward to seeing how the entrants capture their city in a cocktail and welcoming the winners to the home of Auchentoshan^®.”

BECOME PART OF THE NEW MALT ORDER 2018

The competition is open from Tuesday 1 May, with entries to be submitted by Saturday 30 June.

HOW TO ENTER

Enter on Instagram by posting:

1. A photo of a cocktail that embodies your city (no branding or people to be included)
2. Tag @theauchentoshan and use #newmaltorder so we can track your entry
3. Tag your bar (e.g. @scoutldn)
4. Post details of your cocktail’s ingredients and methodology
5. Post an outline of your City inspiration behind the cocktail

To find out more and to enter, visit

www.instagram.com/theauchentoshan or www.auchentoshan.com/newmaltorder

facebook.com/Auchentoshan/

instagram.com/theauchentoshan

twitter.com/Auchentoshan

http://www.auchentoshan.com/ 

Notes:  

The Auchentoshan New Malt Order collective:

Name                          Country                      Bar

Jack Wareing UK Dandelyan (2016)
Georgia Billings UK Plateau (2016)
Jan Jehli Germany Parlous Bar (2016)
Lucia Schurmann Germany Galander (2016)
Michele Heinrich Germany Kinly Bar (2016)
Oliver Stern Canada Toronto Temperance Society (2016)
Valerie Alvardo USA Terminal Bar Union Station (2016)
Kristina Magro USA Fulton Market Kitchen (2016)
Jonathan Shock USA Gallagher’s Grill (2016)
Tommy Klus USA La Moule (2016)
Linus Morgan Sweden Tap Room Kungsholmen (2016)
Charlotte Halsius Sweden Ling Long (2016)
André Duncan Canada Bar consultant (2017)
Karl-Martin Edin Sweden Open/Closed (2017)
Sascha Geiersberg Germany Luna Lounge (2017)
Christian Herberholz Germany Das Schwarze Schaf (2017)
Nicholas Incretolli Canada Bar Sazerac (2017)
Robert Kramer USA The Brick Yard (2017)
Charles Roche UK Scout (2017)
Lachlan Rooney UK The Voodoo Rooms (2017)
Jeremiah Schenzel USA Daps (2017)
Nathaniel Smith USA Spoon & Stable (2017)
Filipp Vovnenko Russia The Balance (2017, pictured above)
Kimber Weissert USA Butcher and Rye (2017)

Awards for Auchentoshan:

Bartenders’ Brand Awards 2018 | Silver for Auchentoshan Bartenders’ Malt 01

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan American Oak

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan Three Wood

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan 12 Year Old

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan 18 Year Old

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan 21 Year Old

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan Blood Oak

ISC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan Three Wood

ISC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan Blood Oak

ISC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan 12 Year Old

ISC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan 18 Year Old

ISC 2017 | Silver for Auchentoshan 21 Year Old 

About Auchentoshan^®

After 200 years of urban life in Glasgow Auchentoshan is part of the city and the city is part of Auchentoshan. It is the only Single Malt Scotch Whisky to triple distil every last drop to create its delicate flavour. Smooth, but gusty. Approachable but deep. Auchenstoshan is the alternative malt for newcomers and whisky lovers alike. 

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 with a 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.com and www.drinksmart.com.

© 2016 Beam Suntory Inc., Merchandise Mart, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1600, Chicago, IL 60654

FOUR BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY SPIRITS NAMED “TROPHY FINALISTS”

IN 2018 ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE

20 spirits from Buffalo Trace Distillery awarded 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (May 15, 2018) A total of 20 spirits from Buffalo Trace Distillery were awarded at the 2018 Ultimate Spirits Challenge. Four of those were named “Trophy Finalists,” including, George T. Stagg, Stagg Jr , Sazerac Straight Rye and Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream Liqueur.

            Those awarded as “Extraordinary, Ultimate Recommendation” include:

• George T. Stagg Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Those awarded the distinction of “Excellent, Highly Recommended” were:

• Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• W. L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• W. L. Weller “Old Weller Antique” Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• W. L. Weller 12 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Sazerac Straight Rye
• Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Straight Rye Whiskey
• Blanton’s Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream
• Benchmark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Sazerac Straight Rye, Eagle Rare 10 Year Old, W. L. Weller 12 Year Old, Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream were all deemed to be “Great Values.” Receiving a designation as “Tried & True” were Sazerac Rye, Eagle Rare, Blanton’s Single Barrel, E. H. Taylor Single Barrel and E. H. Taylor, Jr. Rye.

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

Complete results for the 2018 Ultimate Spirits Challenge can be found at www.ultimate-beverage.com/usc2018results. 

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1773 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 21 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year by “Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible 2018.”  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 500 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Heaven Hill Distillery Receives Best Bourbon, Best Small Batch Bourbon and Numerous Medals from 2018 San Francisco Spirits Competition

Awards continue legacy of excellence for Heaven Hill Distillery portfolio

BARDSTOWN, Ky. – Heaven Hill Distillery’s tradition of producing award-winning American Whiskey continues with the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition naming Henry McKenna Single Barrel “Best Bourbon” across all categories of Bourbon, as well as “Best Single Barrel Bourbon.” Elijah Craig Small Batch was named “Best Small Batch Bourbon,” placing second overall only to Henry McKenna.

Both Bourbons and Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey also received the Double Gold designation, which the competition defines as “awarded to the very few entries that receive a Gold medal rating by all members of the judging panel; these are among the finest products in the world.” This recognition comes on the heels of a banner award year for Heaven Hill Distillery. At the 2018 WSWA Spirits Tasting Competition Elijah Craig Small Batch was named “Best of Show Bourbon” and Pikesville was named “Best of Show American Rye Whiskey,” both receiving Double Golds. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof received the 2017 Whisky Advocate “Whisky of the Year” award, was named a 2018 Ultimate Spirits Competition Finalist and previously won Best Small Batch Bourbon in the 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The World Whiskies Awards named Bernheim Wheat Whiskey, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, and Pikesville Rye their respective category winners for 2017.

“Heaven Hill Distillery’s pedigree of producing Bourbons and whiskeys with award-winning flavor is a tale of more than 80 years of family passion,” said Heaven Hill President Max L. Shapira.  “Parker Beam’s favorite two words were ‘quality’ and ‘consistency,’ and we are proud to see that tradition carried on through the work of our Master Distiller Denny Potter and all that help bring the product to life. We don’t make whiskey to win awards, but it certainly helps validate all that we do here to make our American Whiskey the best way that we know how.”

The San Francisco Spirits Competition was founded in 2000 and has become a premiere tasting competition grounded in integrity and experience. All spirits are tasted over four days through a controlled blind tasting by expert panelists. No information on producer or price point is given out prior to tastings to ensure each is judged fairly and without bias. For insight on the judging process, Fred Minnick, Wall Street Journal best-selling author, chronicled Henry McKenna’s path to Best Bourbon on his blog here. For more information on the San Francisco Spirits Competition, check out the website at https://sfspiritscomp.com/, as well as the August 2018 issue of the Tasting Panel Magazine.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL DISTILLERY: Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.4 million barrels aging in 55 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky and Parker’s Heritage Collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the title of 2018 San Francisco Spirits Best Bourbon, 2017 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year, and previously held the titles of 2016 Whisky Magazine Distillery of the Year, 2016 Whisky Advocate American Whiskey of the Year and 2016 Rye Whiskey of the Year from “Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.” For more information, please visit www.heavenhilldistillery.com.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely. Drink Wisely.”

ROCK TOWN ARKANSAS BOURBONS & RYE SCORE GOLD AND SILVER AT THE SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION

Little Rock, AR – (May 16, 2018) – Rock Town Distillery is excited to announce that it’s main line Arkansas Bourbon Whiskey has won a prestigious Gold Medal at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The competition was held April 13 – 15th and the full results just announced May 15th and can be found here: https://sfspiritscomp.com/results/search/

Rock Town also won silver medals for their Straight Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon, Four Grain Sour Mash Bourbon and their Rye Whiskey.

“The competition was fierce again this year” said distillery founder and head distiller Phil Brandon. “There were 2,469 entries with the bourbon entries up 60% from last year, so we’re extremely proud to win Gold and Silver this year. Wining 5 medals for our whiskeys is a testament to our hard work and quality”

ABOUT ROCK TOWN DISTILLERY

Rock Town Distillery produces the award winning Arkansas Bourbon, Arkansas Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, Arkansas Hickory Smoked Whiskey, Arkansas Rye Whiskey and Rock Town Vodka which are distributed to 15 states and the United Kingdom, Canada and Taiwan. Winner of the 2015 US Micro Whisky of the Year Award in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.
Rock Town Distillery, Arkansas’ first legal distillery since prohibition, is located in downtown Little Rock at 1201 Main Street in Little Rock.  The distillery is open for tours 7 days a week. To find out more please visit www.rocktowndistillery.com
About The San Francisco World Spirit Competition
The San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC)) is one of the most prestigious spirits competitions in the world and recognized internationally as one of the most influential events in the world of spirits. The competition was founded in 2000 by Anthony Dias Blue, a James Beard Award winner.

The 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition was held at the Hotel Nikko, San Francisco from April 13th through April 15th. The 2018 Competition was another record-breaking year that featured 2,469 spirit entries from all corners of the world, marking an 11% increase over last year’s competition.

Gordon & MacPhail unveils new ‘Discovery’ range of single malt Scotch whiskies

Family-owned single malt whisky creators, Gordon & MacPhail, has announced the launch of ‘Discovery’, a new range that is part of the company’s commitment to strengthen and streamline the brand’s portfolio.

The range of carefully selected whiskies is grouped and colour-coded under three flavour profiles – ‘Smoky, ‘Sherry’ and ‘Bourbon’. Designed to help whisky drinkers to begin an exploratory journey through the Gordon & MacPhail portfolio, each bottle features a brief tasting note and either a vintage or age statement.

The first expressions to be released within the new ‘Discovery’ range comprise spirit originally from Balblair, Tormore, Miltonduff and Caol Ila distilleries, then matured in Gordon & MacPhail’s own hand-selected casks. Prices start from £49.95 UK (RSP) and vary in available markets around the world due to taxes and duties.

Stephen Rankin, Director of Prestige and a fourth-generation member of the Urquhart family, owners of Gordon & MacPhail, remarked: “We’re proud to be the curators of the world’s most diverse stock of single malt whiskies from over 100 distilleries. We’ve spent several years working to develop this new range for whisky lovers globally.

“’Discovery’ offers whisky drinkers the opportunity to begin a journey with us through the Gordon & MacPhail whiskies portfolio. By offering flavour profiles and tasting notes, we want to help the discerning consumer navigate their choices with confidence, beyond their usual malt.”

‘Discovery’ is the second range to launch as part of the updated portfolio, which offers consumers five distinct ranges. The new look ‘Connoisseurs Choice’ range was unveiled last month (April 2018). The additional ranges for ‘Distillery Labels’ and ‘Private Collection’ will be revealed to consumers in the summer and autumn respectively. The launch of the next ‘Generations’ release is yet to be revealed.

For more information about the new ‘Discovery’ range and the streamlined portfolio, visit www.gordonandmacphail.com.

Notes 

• 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. 

Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail is a family-owned single malt Scotch whisky creators based in Elgin, Scotland.

Since 1895, Gordon & MacPhail has sent carefully selected casks to distilleries throughout Scotland, filled them with new-make spirit, and matured them either at the distillery of origin or in the company’s own bonded warehouses in Elgin.

Today, Gordon & MacPhail is the curator of the world’s most diverse collection of single malt Scotch whiskies – a liquid library of flavour. Pursuing a singular path to become the master of whisky maturation, each generation of the Urquhart family strives to expand its knowledge and expertise to pass on to subsequent generations.

FORTY CREEK RECRUITS FANS TO SELECT 2018 LIMITED RELEASE IN HISTORIC VOTE 

OVERWHELMING RESPONSE TO SOCIAL INITIATIVE LEADS TO CANADIAN WHISKY BRAND SELECTING FIVE WINNERS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY

TORONTO – Five lucky Canadians are on their way to Forty Creek’s award-winning distillery to help Master Blender, Bill Ashburn, select the 2018 limited edition release. This marks the first time that fans are invited to be part of the brand’s whisky making process.

Forty Creek recently hosted an online search where whisky fans across Canada were asked why Forty Creek was their whisky of choice. Due to the overwhelming response from fans, the award-winning brand decided to expand the VIP tasting experience at Forty Creek’s Grimsby, Ontario distillery to include five winners of the first-ever social initiative. Winners   were selected from over a thousand entries.

“We received entries from all over Canada. It was truly touching to not only see how far reaching Forty Creek is, but how ingrained the brand is in our fans’ lives and the role our whisky played in their most memorable moments,” says John Andersen, Senior Brand Manager, North American Whiskies. “We are thrilled to be welcoming fans representing different communities to our distillery for what will be a historic vote for Forty Creek.” 

The winning blend will be announced and available for reservation prior to Forty Creek’s annual Whisky Weekend in September. Whisky Weekend is Forty Creek’s annual celebration of all things Canadian and Forty Creek, with tours, tastings, seminars, and the official launch of the annual limited edition release. 

The winners hail from across the country. The five winners bringing their unique perspectives to the whisky making process and representing their communities are:

Mike Currah, Ontario

Forty Creek is always top shelf for Mike Currah. Mike was first introduced to Forty Creek in his early 20s – first the Barrel Select, then the Double Barrel Reserve – from the people he was living with in his home province of Ontario. As the brand grew, expanding to offer limited edition releases, so did Mike’s appreciation for and collection of Forty Creek whisky. To date, Mike has all but one of the limited edition releases. Learning from his previous mistake, he now makes sure to buy two bottles of each limited edition release – one to drink and one to save.

Sarah Phelps, Ontario

Sarah Phelps is a fan of whisky, specifically Forty Creek. Her love of the brand has brought her to the distillery so she could witness the process first hand. Her time spent at the distillery led to some surprising discoveries and inventive ways for Sarah to enjoy Forty Creek. Currently, some of her favourites include adding Forty Creek Cream to her coffee, hot chocolate, and ice cream.

 Mark Allanson, Alberta

For Mark Allanson, Forty Creek is the absolute best whisky. Having started off enjoying Forty Creek Double Barrel Reserve, Mark has gone on to add Forty Creek Barrel Select, Cream, and Spike Honey Spiced to his cabinet. Always looking to expand his collection, Mark keeps a lookout for blends that are a rare find to bring back home to Alberta.

Steven Schmutz, British Columbia

The simple switch from drinking whisky mixed with coke to drinking it straight helped Steven Schmutz discover the different flavours that can be present in whisky. While out shopping, Steven’s eye was drawn to a bottle of Forty Creek Barrel Select that had a special tag highlighting the blend’s recent showing in a whisky competition. With Forty Creek having beat out several brands that Steven had in his cabinet, he decided to give it a try. Since then, Forty Creek Barrel Select has become Steven’s go-to whisky.

Ryan Belmore, New Brunswick

Ryan Belmore was first introduced to Forty Creek 15 years ago. Looking for something to enjoy during a night out with friends in New Brunswick, he opted to give a bottle of Forty Creek a shot. That night, Ryan went from predominantly being a rum drinker to a Forty Creek fan. Ryan prides himself on introducing Forty Creek to his friends and credits himself for dozens of them making the switch from other Canadian whisky brands. He has never had someone try Forty Creek whisky and not make the switch. 

About Campari Group:

Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (‘Campari Group’), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. The Group’s portfolio includes over 50 premium and super premium brands. Internationally-renowned brands include Aperol, Appleton Estate, Campari, Cinzano, Grand Marnier, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey. In 2014, The Group acquired Forty Creek Distillery Ltd., a Canadian spirits company with a portfolio of brands including whisky, vodka, brandy, rum and liqueurs. Internationally-recognized for its superior taste and quality, the multi-award winning Forty Creek Whisky serves as both the fastest growing brand in its category across North America and Canada’s first successfully launched whisky brand in over 70 years. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 18 plants worldwide and has its own distribution network in 20 countries. The Group employs around 4,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: http://www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy our brands responsibly.

INTRODUCING HIGHLAND PARK ‘THE LIGHT’

‘a whisky for celebration’

Highland Park is proud to announce the global launch of their latest special edition called ‘THE LIGHT’. This distinctive and vibrant 17 Year Old single malt Scotch whisky has been exclusively matured in refill American oak casks for a light, bright natural colour which delivers sweet flavours of heather peat, nutmeg and vanilla.

Jason R. Craig, Brand Director, Highland Park, commented:“In both ‘THE LIGHT’ and ‘THE DARK’, we share the story of the noble Viking warriors who are our ancestors, of our contrasting island seasons and of the intense balance of our whisky. Our award-winning whiskies deliver flavours of smoky sweetness that’s the product of our climate and our craftsmanship –our own continuous cycle.”

Presented in a pale green bespoke glass;the decoration on the bottle and oak cradle of ‘THE LIGHT’ perfectly complements that of ‘THE DARK’ –the serpent dragon embossed on the front takes its inspiration from Viking stories. ‘THE DARK’& ‘THE LIGHT’are written in runic writing on the serpent dragon’s tail emboss itself and on the oak cradle -celebrating the islands’Viking ancestry. The back of the glass bottle has ‘Made with Pride on Orkney’embossed –a genuine heart-felt tribute to the men and women who create Highland Park single malt.

In ‘THE LIGHT’, we celebrate spring and summer –a time to emerge from our winter hibernation, ready to embrace the warm, bright days of summer. It’s a time to be with friends and family, a time for new places and new faces, for barbecues and fires on the beach, a time for celebrating life. –

Notes to editors:

1. Highland Park ‘THE LIGHT’ completes the series of two expressions and complements Highland Park THE DARK’‘in early 2018 –both are special editions of 28,000 bottles at an ABV of 52.9% and both have a RSP of £190.. 700ml and 750 ml depending on country.

2. HIGHLAND PARK THE LIGHT-TASTING NOTES Natural Cask Driven Colour (no additives):Light golden (colour tint 7.2) Flavours: Caramelised pear| Nutmeg | Vanilla | Cedar wood| Oak| Light peat smoke

ROYAL SALUTE TOASTS THE MARRIAGE OF PRINCE HARRY AND MS MEGHAN MARKLE WITH STUNNING ROYAL WEDDING EDITION

The ‘King of Whisky’ unveils exclusive commemorative blend

Royal Salute, the exceptionally crafted and aged Scotch whisky, has launched its exquisite Royal Wedding Edition – a true collector’s item in tribute to the upcoming nuptials of HRH Prince Henry of Wales and Ms Meghan Markle.

Continuing Royal Salute’s long legacy of celebrating British royal milestones, just 70 bottles of this outstanding and extremely rare whisky have been created, with each housed in an elegant Dartington Crystal decanter.

This whisky has been carefully crafted by Royal Salute Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, who has brought together some of the oldest and rarest whiskies from the Royal Salute collection to create an exclusive expression like no other. In honour of the bride’s heritage, this unique blend has been fully matured in 100% American oak casks – a first for Royal Salute – resulting in a long and creamy finish.

This exceptional unveiling is not only a tribute to the royal couple, but also a celebration of Royal Salute’s long-standing tradition of commemorating momentous British royal occasions. With an impressive portfolio that includes The Diamond Tribute and 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns, the Royal Wedding Edition is in esteemed company.

Royal Salute Brand Ambassador, His Grace The Duke of Argyll, explained: “The marriage of HRH, Prince Henry of Wales, to Ms Meghan Markle, will be one of the most exciting events this century. Since its creation in 1953 in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s coronation, Royal Salute has enjoyed a long and proud heritage of celebrating historic British royal events – and we believe this remarkable new blend is a perfect tribute to such a special moment in history.”

The Royal Wedding Edition is fittingly housed within a striking Dartington Crystal decanter engraved with a unique number and displayed in a hand-crafted American Oak box. The decanter is further enhanced with delicate images of roses, thistles and barley, while the inside of the box is adorned with flowers and foliage in a subtle nod to Harry and Meghan’s spring nuptials. Images of vivid daffodils celebrate Harry’s title as Prince Henry of Wales and California poppies feature in tribute to Meghan’s birth place of Los Angeles.

The Royal Salute Royal Wedding Edition presents an incredibly sweet nose with notes of luxurious vanilla ice cream and soft chocolate fudge, followed by mandarin orange and a dusting of spicy cinnamon. Whisky aficionados fortunate enough to sample this stunning blend will discover a rich, fruity, and incredibly well-balanced taste, with flavours of ripe tropical banana and juicy charred pineapple. The luscious syrupy texture rolls into a hint of almonds and indulgent dark chocolate ginger sweets. Its distinctive flavour is complemented by an incredibly long and sweet finish with creamy vanilla in abundance.

Royal Salute Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, said: “It was a pleasure to create such a special whisky for HRH Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle. By marrying together some of the oldest and rarest whiskies in our portfolio, and aging them in American Oak casks, I have created a harmonious blend to match the coming together of such an iconic couple.”

The Royal Salute Royal Wedding Edition is available at selected retailers and through special enquiry at an RRP of $10,000 (US) per flagon. For more information, whisky connoisseurs can contact Royal Salute at contact@royalsalute.com.

Notes

About Royal Salute

Royal Salute is a careful blend of matured malt and grain whiskies – with its youngest whisky matured for a minimum of 21 years. Created to mark the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, which was honoured with a traditional 21 gun salute, Royal Salute is steeped in tradition, while still firmly engaged in the modern world by constantly pushing the art of blending into new, creative and ambitious forms. Royal Salute is deeply involved in polo – the world’s oldest surviving team sport and a game that’s expanding in the modern era. The brand sponsors more than 15 international tournaments from the UK and the USA through Argentina and China to Korea. www.royalsalute.com 

About Chivas Brothers

Chivas Brothers is a global drinks producer and exports company steeped in Scottish heritage. It is the only Pernod Ricard business dedicated entirely to Scotch whisky and comprises a prestigious range of single malt and blended whiskies. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet. With a multitude of awards and accolades for its quality, craftsmanship, industry-leading sites and award-winning campaigns, its brands are at the heart of moments of connection across the globe.

The company comprises 1,600 employees, 14 Scotch distilleries, two bottling facilities and over 300 warehouses across its 26 sites including Orkney, Scotland and London.
www.chivasspirit.com

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. 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, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier- Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 85 “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.