JAMESON PUTS ‘TASTE’ CENTRE-STAGE IN NEW GLOBAL CAMPAIGN

Jameson Irish Whiskey, which is produced by Irish Distillers in Midleton Distillery, has unveiled its latest advertising platform, entitled ‘Taste, That’s Why’. The campaign launches across television, out of home, digital, display and social media in the USA from this month, ahead of a wider roll-out later this year.

Two television films that reimagine true stories about Jameson and its workers have been created by TBWA Dublin under the helm of John Kane, Executive Creative Director, produced in Ireland and directed by award winning Dutch filmmaker Matthijs van Heijningen.

The first film, ‘Scully was to Blame’, charts a story of redemption for Bill Scully in late 19^th Century Dublin. A character on the Bow Street distillery floor, Scully absentmindedly makes a mistake during the third distillation in the production of Jameson Irish Whiskey – wasting gallons of precious distillate.

The drama captures Ireland’s history of embellishment in storytelling in a humorous and light-hearted yet authentic way. The film premieres on US television in March. Click here to view it: https://youtu.be/Di16EanY_wQ

‘Coopers’ follows the tale of Dempsey and Flanagan, master and apprentice Coopers, at the modern-day Midleton Distillery, County Cork. Passionate about the provenance and craftsmanship of their barrels, the duo panic when their prized barrels are loaned to a local brewery – and only an experiment in maturation, which results in Jameson Caskmates, eventually appeases their concerns. Click here to view it: https://youtu.be/WIekiS5A3vs

A documentary series, ‘The Story behind the Story’, has also been produced and provides never-before-seen glimpses into the real stories, people and places behind Jameson Irish Whiskey. Directed by Nick Rutter, these light-hearted films are available across Jameson social media channels:

Coopers – https://youtu.be/thlH0C45b3c

Scully – https://youtu.be/m4oyVL4uFUg

The campaign has been adapted for out of home, with award-winning US photographers The Wade Brothers shooting a stills campaign in bars in Dublin and New York that brings to life ‘Taste, That’s Why’ through confident and engaging copy for key Jameson expressions and serves.

Simon Fay, International Marketing Director at Irish Distillers, said: “In this campaign we wanted to put the unique taste of the Jameson Family centre-stage of the creative, as this is the reason behind our success – and why bartenders, whiskey lovers and premium spirits drinkers alike all over the world continue to discover Jameson.

“It was also important for us to inject the light-hearted, humorous attitude of Jameson into the campaign in a very direct and transparent way. We feel, along with our partners at TBWA Dublin, that we have achieved the perfect balance of this.

“Our ‘Taste, That’s Why’ campaign presents a fresh, engaging and emotive creative for Jameson that is set to build the profile and personality of the brand in the USA, the world’s largest Irish whiskey market, and beyond. We see further growth potential for Jameson all around the world and we are confident that ‘Taste, That’s Why’ will help us to continue the 28 years of growth that we have achieved with Jameson.” 

Mark Nolan, Chief Strategy Officer TBWA Dublin, added: “While there are very few global brands that could dip into the well of provenance and authenticity like Jameson, here we are not reliant on the past to be relevant today.  ‘Taste, That’s Why’ is pure storytelling and like all the best stories, if they happen to be based on the truth, the more impactful and lasting they tend to be.”

John Kane, Executive Creative Director globally for Jameson at TBWA, said: “Jameson is an iconic Irish brand, so it was a privilege to be given the opportunity to create this global platform. We surrounded ourselves with the best talent we could find and had great fun bringing this work to life. We feel ‘Taste, That’s Why’ really captures the honesty and substance of the brand.”

The ‘Taste, That’s Why,’ campaign will be unveiled across the USA in March, ahead of its introduction to other key Irish whiskey markets throughout 2018.

Notes 

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 28 years of consecutive growth and hitting sales of 6.5m cases in 2017. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 71 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 € 9, 010 million in 2016/17. 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 18,500 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. www.pernod-ricard.com

Ardbeg Distillery rolls back the years to celebrate all things ‘Peat & Love’ on Ardbeg Day

BOURBON ANGELS LAUNCHED IN KENTUCKY

Two family firms have joined forces to bring unique glass angels filled with Bourbon to the US market.

Louisville-based firm A Taste of Kentucky has launched the first Bourbon Angels, made by Scots company Angels’ Share Glass, in their gift shops.

The Angels, crafted by hand in Stirling, Scotland, hold 25ml of Kentucky Bourbon inside the glass – expertly captured by a secret method.

They are based on the distillers’ myth of the `Angels’ Share’ which believes the small amount of whiskey lost during the maturation process is taken away by angels.

John Hassmann, who runs A Taste of Kentucky, discovered the Bourbon Angels by chance when staff from Angels’ Share Glass popped into one of his shops.

He said: “We were so lucky to meet Karen and Jen from Angels’ Share Glass when they came into our shop during a trip to Kentucky.

“We love it when we find unique high-quality items to offer to our customers across the country and were delighted to hear all about the Scottish glass angels.

“Like us, Angels’ Share Glass are a small family-owned company and we appreciate the work ethic of other similar companies.

“We were impressed by the unique nature of the Bourbon Angels and, of course, the distinct Kentucky connection plus the fact our customers can buy products which are not available everywhere.

“We’re pleased with the response to the Angels so far with lots of customers telling us how beautiful and unique they are.

“It’s a positive start and we’re looking forward to a great ongoing partnership with our Scottish friends.”

Angels’ Share Glass Managing Director Karen Somerville and Sales Manager Jen Kidd were in Kentucky as part of a trade trip to the American Midwest organised for Scottish companies.

Mrs Somerville said: “It was a fantastic trip and we organised meetings with representatives of different companies, so we could showcase our products and see if they were interested in partnering with us.

“We actually met John purely by chance after calling into his shop in Louisville to buy some souvenirs just before we flew home.

“Jen and I got chatting to the shop assistant and told her about our firm’s signature product, glass angels filled with Scotch whisky, and she said her boss would love to see them.”

She organised a meeting with Mr Hassmann where Mrs Somerville outlined the idea of creating handmade Bourbon Angels for the Kentucky market given the state’s reputation as the home of Bourbon.

She said: “Since 95% of US Bourbon is distilled in Kentucky, we thought it would be ideal to swap Scotch for Bourbon to create Bourbon Angels and John loved the concept.

“It was a serendipitous meeting and we’re delighted it led to our first American partnership.”

A Taste of Kentucky was established by Mr Hassmann and his wife Sherry more than 30 years ago.

The couple sell products made locally or `in the spirit of Kentucky’ at their three Louisville-based stores and online shop.

The Bourbon Angels are available from the company’s website priced at $49.99 – www.atasteofkentucky.com/product/angels-share-bourbon-angel

Angels’ Share Glass is based in Bridge of Allan, near Stirling and was established by Master Glassmaker Tom Young MBE and his daughter Karen Somerville in 2013.

For more details, visit www.angelsshareglass.com

Notes for Editors: Angels’ Share Glass is a family-run business based in Bridge of Allan, near Stirling. The firm was co-founded by Karen Somerville and her father Tom Young MBE – a world-renowned Master Craftsman who has been glassblowing and making lamp-work glassware for 60 years. More information about the company can be found at www.angelsshareglass.com

Notes for Editors: A Taste of Kentucky is an award-winning and family-run chain of stores based in Louisville, Kentucky. The firm was established by John and Sherry Hassmann 33 years ago. For more information go to the website – www.atasteofkentucky.com

Matthew Clark Helps Licensees Drive Sales this St Patrick’s Day

The UK’s largest drinks distributor, Matthew Clark, is set to help licensees make the most of one of the biggest on–trade events of the year, with tailored support packages and bespoke St Patrick’s Day brand activation.

In association with Jameson, Matthew Clark will be offering a full St Patrick’s Day support package, including a themed POS kit, and driving the Jameson ginger and lime perfect serve which will be supported on social media. Enabling licensees to take advantage of this significant sales opportunity, the kit includes 25 Jameson cups, 10 table talkers, 1 bar runners, 50 drink coasters and 3 metres of bunting, helping drive rate of sale and visibility in‐venue.

Matthew Clark is also actively driving distribution of Jameson Caskmates as part of this activity, and together with Meantime has created a perfect pairing of beer and whiskey to enhance the overall experience and provide a unique proposition for outlets looking to take advantage of this growing trend.

In collaboration with Guinness, Matthew Clark will also be supplying Guinness kegs and bottles, as well as offering support for outlets in the form of branded POS to dress venues for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The business will also be advising operators to mix up their drinks offering to give customers a variety of St Patrick’s Day themed beverages during their visit. Utilising bespoke POS, menus and recipes will also enable outlets to amplify activation further.

Katie Cook, Category Marketing Manager, Spirits at Matthew Clark, comments; “St. Patrick’s Day presents a huge sales opportunity for licensees, even more so this year with England playing Ireland in the Six Nations tournament on the same day. With this in mind, we’re dedicated to making sure that our customers have everything they need to truly make the most of this unique opportunity, and help drive footfall and increase sales as a result”.

Licensees can also take advantage of Matthew Clark’s recently enhanced online ordering platform, which is 100% mobile and tablet friendly and fully optimised for use 24 hours a day. Users can easily browse over 7,000 products, and purchase at the click of a button.

Recommended products and servings for the St Patrick’s Day activation include:

• Jameson Original
• Jameson Caskmates
• Guinness
• Jameson Ginger & Lime – 50ml Jameson Irish Whiskey, top up with quality bottled ginger ale, squeeze a large wedge of lime and drop into the glass
• Jameson Caskmates Irish Coffee – 40ml Jameson Caskmates Stout Edition, 75ml Colombian Dark Roast Coffee, 25ml 2:1 Rich Demerara Syrup, layer fresh cold double cream on top and garnish with grated nutmeg. Build in a warm Irish Coffee glass
• Perfectly poured pint of Guinness

Notes

Matthew Clark is a leading national drinks wholesaler with over 200 years’ experience supplier drink products, hospitality training, labour management and marketing support to over 16,000 On-Trade premises in the UK.

Award-winning start to Benromach Distillery’s 20^th anniversary year 

The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd. has added to its awards collection following success at the 2018 World Whiskies Awards.

Benromach 15 Years Old single malt was crowned the winner in the Speyside 13-20 category, while the flagship Benromach 10 Years Old was honoured with Gold in the Speyside 12 Years and Under category.

The World Whiskies Awards are part of the prestigious World Drinks Awards scheme, presented by the Drinks Report. Now in the 11^th year, the awards aim to select the highest quality in all internationally recognised styles of drinks.

Benromach Distillery Manager, Keith Cruickshank said: “We’re thrilled with the success of our products in the World Whiskies Awards. We are very proud of our core range of hand crafted single malts providing whisky lovers with the opportunity to discover a lost taste of Speyside.

“This is our anniversary year, celebrating 20 years of distilling since Benromach reopened following its purchase and extensive refurbishment in 1998. The year is off to a great start and we have an exciting calendar of activities and product launches over 2018 to look forward to.”

Gold medal winner Benromach 10 Years Old is created using the finest Scottish barley and pure spring water from the nearby Romach hills. After maturing for ten years, the whisky emerges golden in colour and displays rich fruit, sweet chocolate and delicate spicy aromas. With a rich sherry influence, the mouth-watering palate coats the senses with exotic fruit flavours, toasted malt and a delicate hint of smoke.

With a distinctive golden amber colour thanks to its long maturation in sherry and bourbon casks, the award- winning Benromach 15 Years Old is a stunning dram. Beautifully balanced sherry aromas lead on the nose followed by vanilla and spicy ginger, complemented by delicate chamomile and menthol notes. This is followed by flavours of stewed plum, red apple and the sharp edge of kiwi fruit on the tongue.

To view the award-winning range of Benromach whiskies, please visit: www.benromach.com/whiskies

Notes 

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 Prince Charles in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family decided to create a classic Speyside single malt – a style that draws its influence from Speyside whiskies pre-1960s.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A four-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.

2018 Rebel Yell® Bourbon Single Barrel Now Available

Highly acclaimed and aged 10 years, 2018 allocation offered in limited quantity 

(ST. LOUIS, MO) February 26, 2018—Rebel Yell® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has released its 2018 allocation of the award-winning Rebel Yell Single Barrel. At 100 proof, the original time-honored Rebel Yell recipe is meticulously aged in charred oak barrels for 10 years, building a unique flavor profile specific to each batch.

The hand-bottled wheated bourbon ranked at No. 12 in Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 Whiskies of the Year list for 2017, described as maintaining “consistent excellence in a single barrel whiskey.”

“Aging the bourbon for 10 years really brings out the sweetness, oakiness, and caramel and vanilla notes,” says John Rempe, head distiller and at Lux Row Distillers – the new home of Rebel Yell as well as other bourbon brands. “Every barrel is different and has its own unique flavor profile, creating a new experience for consumers with every bottle.”

This ultra-premium bourbon is robust and complex in flavor and is hand-bottled, one barrel at a time, for a uniquely rebellious experience. Each bottle, complete with a premium matte finish closure and natural wood cork, is sold in individual boxes, and each label includes the barrel number and an “aged since” date.

Rebel Yell Single Barrel will be available in most states in 750 ml bottles at a suggested retail price of $59.99 (100 proof/50% ABV) in 2018. Only 2,000 cases will be available, including a limited number of bottles at Lux Row Distillers once it opens its doors for visitors this spring as a new distillery experience along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

For more information about the distillery, visit www.luxrowdistillers.com, or follow it on Facebook and Instagram @luxrowdistillers. For more information on Rebel Yell and its product lineup, visit www.rebelyellbourbon.com. To sign up for the brand’s loyalty program, Band of Rebels, visit www.bandofrebels.com.

About Luxco
A leading producer, supplier, importer and bottler of beverage alcohol products, Luxco’s mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of consumers, associates and business partners. Founded in St. Louis in 1958, Luxco remains locally owned and operated by the Lux family. Lux Row Distillers is bringing the family’s legacy to the heart of Bourbon Country in Bardstown, Kentucky and is now the home of Luxco’s bourbon portfolio, including Rebel Yell, Blood Oath, David Nicholson, and Ezra Brooks. Luxco has also built a new distillery in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico – Destiladora González Luxco – where the company’s 100 percent agave tequilas, El Mayor and Exotico, will be produced. Luxco’s innovative and high-quality brand portfolio also includes Everclear Grain Alcohol, Pearl Vodka, Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream, and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company and its brands, visit www.luxco.com.

Malt Maniacs Awards 2017- A Jury Report 

Since 1997, the malt maniacs (an international collective of malt whisky enthusiasts) have been enjoying and discussing the pleasures of (single malt) whisky with like-minded whisky lovers from all over the world. Since 2003, we have organised (non stop) our very own annual ‘amateur’ whisky competition. We like to think that, over the years, our modest little initiative has evolved into one of the leading (and most independent) whisky competitions in the world. You can find more details about our collective and its history on: www.maltmaniacs.net

MMA 2017: The Rules

Our fundamentals are:

• 100% Amateur
• 100% Blind

Awards

In the Malt Maniacs Awards, medals are won on merit, similar to the system that is used by the boy scouts. The winners in specific categories receive awards instead – hence the name of our competition. There are six award categories in three price brackets. We distinguish between these six awards categories:

• Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Overall top scoring whisky out of all Malt Maniacs Awards entries that year)
• Best Natural Cask Award (Best whisky matured exclusively in ‘untreated’, regular casks)
• Best Sherry Cask Award (Best whisky matured exclusively in sherry casks)
• Best Peated Malt Award (Best whisky distilled from – relatively – peated malted barley)
• Thumbs Up Award (Most exciting new release in that price category that year)

Every bottle that is entered in our competition can win only one award (as well as only one medal). Apart from the six awards categories listed above, there are three different price brackets –

Daily Drams (the bottles with a retail price of up to 50 Euros), Premium Whiskies (the bottles with a retail price between 50 and 150 Euros) and Ultra Premium Whiskies (the bottles with a retail price of more than 150 Euros).So there are 18 ‘standard’ awards that are assigned each year – provided we can find a suitable candidate.

If we feel that a certain whisky, bottler or distillery deserves special recognition in a particular year, we sometimes add one or more ‘special’ awards.

And finally, the moment you are waiting for……!!!!

AWARDS –Supreme Winner 

Kavalan 2009/2017 ‘Solist’ (58.60%, OB, C#S090306031, Sherry Cask, 481 Bts.)

AWARDS – Ultra Premium Category

Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Ultra Premium)

Glen Grant 1965 (43.6% Gordon & MacPhail for LMDW, First Fill Sherry Cask, 19 Bts)

Best Natural Cask Award (Ultra Premium)

22yo 1993/2015 (52.70%, Chieftain’s Choice, C#3612, First Fill Sherry Butt, 579 Bts.)

Best Sherry Cask Award (Ultra Premium).

Yamazaki 25yo (43%, OB, Sherry)

Best Peated Malt Award (Ultra Premium)

Islay Distillery 25yo (48.7%, That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Thumbs Up Award (Ultra Premium)

Glenfarclas 10yo 2005/2015 (60.9%, OB, C#2424, Sherry Cask, 634 Bts.)

AWARDS – Premium Category

Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Premium)

Kavalan ‘Solist’ 2008 (58.6%, OB, C#S081217041, Sherry Cask, 476 Bts.)

Best Natural Cask Award (Premium)

Edradour 11yo 2005/2016 (59.1%, OB for Drunken Master Bar, C#90, Sherry cask)

Best Sherry Cask Award (Premium)

Kavalan 2009/2017 ‘Solist’ (58.60%, OB, C#S090306024, Sherry Cask, 461 Bts.)

Best Peated Malt Award (Premium)

Ledaig 12yo 2005/2017 (61.1%, Cadenhead’s for HNWS Taiwan 12th Anniversary)

Thumbs Up Award (Premium)

Amrut 2011/2016 (56.50%, OB for Hot Malt, C#4122, PX Sherry Cask, 624 Bts.)

AWARDS – Daily Drams Category

Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Daily Drams)

Elements of Islay ‘Peat Full Proof’ (59.3%, The Whisky Exchange, NAS)

Best Natural Cask Award (Daily Drams)

Wemyss ‘Treacle Chest’ (46%, Wemyss Family Collection, First Fill Sherry Hogshead, 6300 Bts.)

Best Sherry Cask Award (Daily Drams)

Glenfarclas 105  (60%, OB, Sherry Cask)

Best Peated Malt Award (Daily Drams)

Caol Ila 12yo (43%, OB)

Thumbs Up Award (Daily Drams)

Laphroaig 10yo (40%, OB)

Gold Medals (GM) 

Gold Medals as you all would agree are the cream of the crop! As mentioned earlier it is not easy to get a GM in MMA and the average GM winners per competition for last 14 years has been only eight!! The maximum of 15 were in the year 2006 with minimum being 3 in the inaugural year, 2003.

So this year we are not far away from our average number, which are:

1. Kavalan 2009/2017 ‘Solist’ (58.60%, OB, C#S090306031, Sherry Cask, 481 Bts.)

2. Kavalan ‘Solist’ 2008 (58.6%, OB, C#S081217041, Sherry Cask, 476 Bts.)

3. Edradour 11yo 2005/2016 (59.1%, OB for Drunken Master Bar, C#90, Sherry cask)

4. Glen Grant 1965 (43.6% Gordon &MacPhail for LMDW, First Fill Sherry Cask, 19 Bts)

5. Yamazaki 25yo (43%, OB, Sherry)

6. Kavalan 2009/2017 ‘Solist’ (58.60%, OB, C#S090306024, Sherry Cask, 461 Bts.)

7. Ledaig 12yo 2005/2017 (61.1%, Cadenhead’s for HNWS Taiwan 12th Anniversary)

8. Kavalan 2009/2016 ‘Solist’ (57.10%, OB, C#S090306012, Sherry Cask, 498 Bts.)

9. Undisclosed 22yo 1993/2015 (52.70%, Chieftain’s Choice, C#3612, First Fill Sherry Butt, 579 Bts.)

10. Amrut 2011/2016 (56.50%, OB for Hot Malt, C#4122, PX Sherry Cask, 624 Bts.)

11. Edradour 11yo 2004/2016 (57.6%, OB, C#426, 674 Bts.)

12. Glenlivet 2007 (66.6%, Signatory Vintage for Whisky Live 2017, C#900188, 343 Bts.)

13. Kavalan 2010/2017 ‘Solist’ (59.40%, OB for LMDW C#0100505013A, Port Cask, 196 Bts.)

Final words 

The MMA cannot take place without the participating companies submitting their bottles to us. So, a big thank you to them! The MMA2017 has been a very good year and as the next MMA will be the 15^th anniversary of the awards, so malt lovers, expect something special in MMA2018!!

The Scotch Whisky Industry Review is celebrating the release of the 40^th edition of its authoritative annual publication – every one of which has been authored by the leading industry analyst Alan S Gray.

Alan stated “it has been a pleasure to report on this fascinating industry for the past four decades and I have witnessed many significant changes over that period. It is particularly pleasing that the latest release of the Annual Review reflects a lot of vitality in the industry including the influx of a varied number of new entrants.”

Alan notes “A major feature of recent years has been the opening of new malt distilleries – 23 since 2012, including 10 in 2017 alone.”

In addition, the Review relates that over thirty new distilleries are currently at the planning stage – a marked contrast to earlier periods when, for example, 55 distilleries were closed between 1980 and 2002 (although several were subsequently re-opened) and only 9 new distilleries built in the 25 years from 1987 to 2012.

The latest Annual Review details increases in the value of Scotch Whisky exports reflecting both increases in volume and, in recent times, a favourable exchange rate. The detailed figures show that the USA continues to be the #1 market in terms of value, with France #1 in volumes, whilst growth export markets worthy of note include Asia (with Japan and India particularly strong.)

Detailed Case Sales by brand and by company are also included together with a comprehensive list of operational malt distilleries along with their capacities.

The Review also provides information regarding visitor numbers for those distilleries (around 50% of the total) which actively cater for visitors.

The Annual Review – and associated subscription service which includes 10 newsletters published throughout the year – is available via www.scotchwhiskyindustryreview.com

Notes:

The Scotch Whisky Industry Review is the single most authoritative source of business information on the Scotch Whisky industry –comprehensive in its coverage and painstaking in the accuracy of its research. The Review contains 284 pages packed with fascinating and useful information and is used as a reference by all the leading Scotch Whisky companies and influencers.

The Review is published annually and having started life in 1977 is now in its 40th edition.

Every edition of the Review has been compiled by the recognised leading independent industry analyst, and Master of the Quaich, Alan S Gray.

See www.scotchwhiskyindustryreview.com

Contact information ;

Alan S Gray       Tel : 01698 425373        alan.gray@scotchwhisky.net

Alan Gordon      Tel : 07714 100036        alan.gordon@scotchwhisky.net

Glen Scotia Grand Tour set to offer whisky lovers a taste of Campbeltown 

Award-winning distiller Glen Scotia is to stage a tour that will enable whisky fans around the world to experience the essence of Campbeltown – Scotland’s smallest Scotch-producing region.

The Glen Scotia Grand Tour kicks off in London in March before being rolled out internationally to countries including the US. It aims to transport whisky lovers to the Glen Scotia distillery on  the Mull of Kintyre and replicate the experience of visiting the distinctive Campbeltown whisky region.

Attendees will be fully immersed in the Campbeltown environment via an interactive pop-up event reproducing the sights of the Glen Scotia distillery and the surronding, seaside town. The 60-minute experience, begins with whisky-based cocktails and canapes, inspired by local producers, in the Victorian themed Distillery Manager’s office. Next guests will experience  Glen Scotia’s dunnage warehouse, tasting a variety of expressions from the independent distiller including a whisky exclusive to the Glen Scotia Grand Tour.

Each space has been carefully designed for an authentic experience with windows looking out on to the Kintyre Peninsula. The Victorian themed room exudes the classic style of the era, and the furniture and artefacts have been hand-chosen to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

In the dunnage warehouse guests will find original whisky barrels from the Glen Scotia Distillery, and will sample drams straight from the cask. During the experience, attendees will be transported to the costal town through virtual projections which will light up the surronding walls.

The Glen Scotia distillery, which has a history dating back to 1832, is located in Campbeltown, on the Kintyre Peninsula.

In the Victorian age Campbeltown, which is the smallest and one of the most remote of Scotland’s five Scotch whisky producing regions, was known as the ‘whisky capital of the world’ and home to more than 30 distilleries. Today Glen Scotia is one of just three surviving local distilleries. Its award-winning whiskies are known for their distinctive maritime influence and are representative of the traditional Campbeltown character.

Iain McAlister, Distillery Manager at Glen Scotia, said: “We are the first to admit that Campbeltown isn’t the easiest to get to, but when whisky fans visit Glen Scotia they are deeply impressed by our whiskies and the unique character of the region. Our Glen Scotia Grand Tour will allow whisky lovers to share that sense of discovery and experience the lure of Campbeltown for themselves.”

Scott Dickson, Marketing Manager at Loch Lomond Group said; “Glen Scotia had been quietly producing exceptional single malts for more than 150 years and the Grand Tour is part of our ongoing strategy to put this special Campbeltown single malt whisky firmly on the map.

“This global experiential activation represents a major investment for Glen Scotia, and will increase visibility of the brand in markets worldwide. Campbeltown is known for producing some of the finest single malt whiskies and we are excited for consumers to experience the region for themselves.”

As well as learning more about Glen Scotia’s whiskies, history and heritage, those who attend the event will be in with a chance to win a trip to the distillery to experience the region for themselves.

The Glen Scotia Grand Tour will take place from Thursday 15 to Saturday 17 March 2018 at the Wine Pantry in Borough Market, London. Sessions last 60 minutes with multiple sessions each day. Attendees must be 18 years old or over.

The Glen Scotia Grand Tour follows a resurgence of the brand, which has been owned by Loch Lomond Group since 2014. Glen Scotia’s new ranges are available across a number of global markets and the brand recently launched its travel retail range in the UK comprising Glen Scotia 1832 Campbeltown and Glen Scotia 16 Year Old.

For ticket information, please visit Skiddle.com

For more information on Glen Scotia please visit www.glenscotia.com

Notes:

About Glen Scotia:

• Independent distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832.
• Glen Scotia is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown.
• Glen Scotia was named Best Campbeltown Distillery of the Year at the 2017 Berlin International Spirits Competition.
• Glen Scotia Double Cask was named Scottish Field Whisky of the Year 2016
• Glen Scotia 15 Year Old won Double Gold at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition 2016
• Glen Scotia Victoriana won best Campbeltown Single Malt at World Whisky Awards 2017

www.glenscotia.com

@glenscotiamalts