Isle of Arran Distillers eye spring 2019 opening for Lagg Distillery

Construction of the Isle of Arran Distillers second distillery on the south of the island is on track to be completed and open to the public by spring 2019.

The most recent milestone at the Lagg Distillery is the completion of the steelworks. With the structure now in place, the Distillery has begun to take on its distinctive shape, overlooking the south coast of Arran and the Firth of Clyde. The new distillery has been positioned next to fields of barley that provide a portion of the malt currently used in distillation at Lochranza.

Come the turn of the year the copper pot stills will be installed, shortly followed by the first production run with a heavily-peated (50ppm) spirit that will become in time the flagship Lagg Distillery Single Malt Scotch whisky.

Seven hundred of these casks were first made available to purchase in February and, so far, have proved a very attractive offering for a variety of individuals from all over the world. As well as being an opportunity to be part of single malt history on the Isle of Arran, every cask owner will become a member of the exclusive Lagg Cask Society. Membership guarantees a bottle from the very first cask to be filled at Lagg which is reserved exclusively for the Society. In addition, each member will have their name displayed on the Lagg ‘Wall of Fame’ and receive an invite to the Lagg Cask Society Members Day for a first-look of the distillery and visitor centre before its official opening.

Once the casks have been laid down they will remain at the distillery for a minimum of ten years of maturation under the careful eye of Graham Omand, who has recently been appointed the distillery manager of the Lagg Distillery.

Graham is the nephew of the Isle of Arran Distillers master distiller James MacTaggart. He has been working under his uncle’s guidance at the Lochranza Distillery for over eight years. Click here to view a short video of Graham and James discussing the new Lagg Distillery, as well as everything Lagg Cask Society.

Speaking about the progress, Euan Mitchell, Managing Director of Isle of Arran Distillers, said: “It is fantastic to see the vision turning into a reality. With just under a year to go until we plan to open the Lagg Distillery, we’re delighted to confirm that everything is on target to be completed by spring next year. We’re assembling a team, headed up by Graham, which will play an integral role in growing the business and producing rich, earthy and high-quality peated spirit.

“The decision to concentrate on heavily peated single malts at the Lagg Distillery comes after the popularity of our Machrie Moor limited edition range.  Being able to dedicate the facility to this style of whisky will enable further innovation, becoming a space where we can experiment with different flavours.”

When fully operational in 2019 the Lagg Distillery will increase Isle of Arran’s production capacity to 2 million litres. Further, the total visitor numbers to both distillery sites are expected to exceed 200,000 by 2020. 

Notes:

For more information visit www.arranwhisky.com

Accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for: Best New Exporter (2004), Queen’s Award for International Trade (2005), Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007) Scottish Field Visitor Experience of the Year 2014 & 2015, Drinks Business Best Contribution to Wine and Spirits Tourism (2017), Best Brewery/Distillery Tour – Scottish Outdoor Leisure Awards (2017)

Product awards include: Best Whisky Liqueur (2007), ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 12 Years & Under’ for The Arran Malt Amarone Cask Finish (2008) ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for The Arran Malt Sherry Single Cask 1998 (2010) and ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for the Icons of Arran Peacock (2011.) ‘Double Gold Award’ for Arran’s 14 Year Old Single Malt and ‘Gold Award’ for Arran’s 10 Year Old Single Malt at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2012). Double Gold in FiftyBest.com awards (2012). Double Gold Medal for the 12 year-old Cask Strength in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2013). Double Gold for both the 10-year-old and 12-year-old Cask Strength at the China Wine & Spirits Best Value Awards 2014.  Category Winner & Gold Medal ‘Best Scotch 13-20 Years – Islands (Non- Islay) World Whiskies Awards for the Arran 18-year-old (2018). Category Winner & Gold Medal ‘No Age Statement Single Malt’ for The Bothy Batch 3 World Whiskies Awards (2018). Silver Medal ‘Single Malt 12 Years and Under’ World Whiskies Awards 2018 for the Arran 10-year-old (2018).

THE GLENLIVET EXPLORES NEW FRONTIERS WITH LAUNCH OF

COGNAC CASK FINISH EXPRESSION

The Glenlivet is set to re-assert its credentials as the definitive Single Malt Scotch whisky with the release of a contemporary new expression; Captain’s Reserve, a Single Malt selectively finished in high-quality Cognac casks. The launch is set to push the boundaries of modern Scotch through its distinctive cask combination.

Available from April 2018, Captain’s Reserve is the result of flavour and cask experimentation. This combination of the raisin-rich intense taste of Cognac with the signature citrus notes and creamy smoothness of The Glenlivet offers consumers the opportunity to broaden their Single Malt Scotch repertoire. The new flavour and taste experience also encourages new consumers to explore the thriving Single Malt Scotch category, which is one of the fastest growing spirits categories globally, and is expected to continue its growth at +6%[1].

This new expression, which will sit as part of The Glenlivet range, is a tribute to Captain William Smith Grant, great-grandson of George Smith, founder of The Glenlivet, the definitive Speyside Single Malt. The Captain not only fought in the First World War in France, but later went on to fight for The Glenlivet, guiding the brand through the difficult Prohibition years and leading the Single Malt Scotch whisky revival in the UK and US. This unique story is brought to life through Captain’s Reserve by uniting the definitive Speyside Single Malt and the opulent rich flavours of Cognac.

Alan Winchester, The Glenlivet Master Distiller, comments: “We know that Single Malt consumers are becoming increasingly adventurous and are seeking to explore new flavour profiles and finishes in the category. Research shows that the global consumption of Cognac is expected to increase by some 2m cases by 2021[2]. By introducing Cognac into our finishing process, we are able to capitalise on the popularity of this flavour and add another dimension to our world-renowned portfolio. The Cognac casks’ influence will bring a real richness to the smooth and fruity style of The Glenlivet, which we’re confident new and existing Single Malt Scotch enthusiasts will enjoy.”

Captain’s Reserve is available globally, with an RRP ranging from £45-48 (or local equivalent).

Notes:

The Glenlivet Captain Reserve Tasting notes:

NOSE: Bursting with sweet and fruity aromas. Rich in honey and apricot jam, with notes of sweet cinnamon bread and a subtle sensation of spicy liquorice.

TASTE: Succulent flavours of mandarins in syrup, ripe poached pears and chocolate-dipped raisins.

FINISH: Incredibly smooth and luscious.

About The Glenlivet:

Created by George Smith in 1824, The Glenlivet is The Definitive Speyside Single Malt, renowned for its heritage as a visionary within the single malts category. With its smooth and fruity flavour profile, The Glenlivet has contributed the biggest volume growth of the single malt category worldwide, adding more than any other single malt whisky brand over the past five years (IWSR, 2016). Acting as the guardian for outstanding quality and craftsmanship within single malts, The Glenlivet is dedicated to continuing this legacy and has led innovation within single malt in recent years. Standout initiatives include the release of The Glenlivet Cipher, a mystery single malt, and the creation of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, a great representation of the distillery’s signature style.

About Chivas Brothers:

Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky and the No.1 Scotch whisky in China; Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky; The Glenlivet, the single malt whisky that set the standard; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.

[1] IWSR, 2016

[2] The Global Cognac Insights report, 2017

TWO WORLD-FIRST ‘METHOD AND MADNESS’ EXPRESSIONS

ADDED TO THE EXPERIMENTAL IRISH SPIRITS RANGE 

Irish Distillers, makers of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, has added two new and experimental, limited edition Irish whiskeys to its METHOD AND MADNESS range; Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey Finished in Virgin Hungarian Oak and a 28-year-old Ruby Port Pipe Single Cask Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. First launched in 2017, METHOD AND MADNESS aims to push the boundaries of Irish whiskey through innovative releases, harnessing the creativity and fresh thinking of the masters and apprentices in Midleton Distillery.

In a world first for Irish whiskey, METHOD AND MADNESS Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey Finished in Virgin Hungarian Oak has been finished in virgin oak felled in the Carpathian Mountain range in the North East of Hungary, where volcanic soils are best suited to the growing of Quercus Petraea. Harvested in winter and air-dried for two years at theKádár Kádár sawmills in Tokaj, the tight grain of this exceptional wood slowly imparts complex compounds and subtle flavours into the whiskey during the finishing process. The whiskey, a single pot still distillate, was first matured in a combination of first-fill and re-fill American oak barrels, before finishing in the virgin Hungarian oak for 11 months.

Kevin O’Gorman, Master of Maturation at Midleton Distillery, commented: “Our quest for uncommon casks has led us all over the world. We were especially intrigued by the Quercus Petraea from North East Hungary and the unique properties that it could add to our flavour repertoire as whiskey makers. At Midleton Distillery over the past few years, we have been experimenting with Hungarian virgin oak casks – a trial and error process that we are incredibly proud to have finally mastered. The result is a new first for Irish whiskey that continues to challenge perceptions of what the category can be.”

The second aged release in the METHOD AND MADNESS series is a 28 year old Ruby Port Pipe, which is a single pot still Irish whiskey matured initially for six years in American oak barrels, before being re-casked into a Ruby Port pipe for a further 22 years. The cask was carefully seasoned with a selection of wines to remove some of the heavy tannins and further seasoned with Ruby Port, infusing rich fruit flavours. The whiskey is alive with notes of ripe stone fruit on the nose and generous with vanilla and cinnamon on the palate, while the light pot still spices shine through on the long, satisfying finish.

Dave McCabe, Apprentice Blender at Midleton Distillery, added: “METHOD AND MADNESS 28 Year Old Ruby Port Pipe marks the realisation of a 22-year-old prediction from the Midleton Masters, which stated that the marriage of flavours between a single pot still Irish whiskey and a Port pipe will one day achieve balance. Billy Leighton, our Master Blender, and I have been carefully monitoring the slowly evolving flavours of this rare and exceptional cask as part of my training as Apprentice Blender. It gives us great pleasure to be able to present it as the perfect harmony between whiskey, Port and wood.”

METHOD AND MADNESS Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey Finished in Virgin Hungarian Oak is bottled without chill-filtration at 46% ABV and is available in Ireland, the UK, Travel Retail Ireland and France, RRP €89. METHOD AND MADNESS Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 28 Year Old Ruby Port Pipe Single Cask is bottled at 56.1% ABV and available in Ireland, UK, Travel Retail Ireland and France, priced at RRP €1,900

METHOD AND MADNESS Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey Finished in Virgin Hungarian Oak

Tasting notes by Master Blender, Billy Leighton:

Nose: Treacle, toffee, toasted coconut and campfire ashes

Taste: Silky smooth richness, bittersweet liquorice and dry woodland notes

Finish:  Dissipating spice and toasted Oak

METHOD AND MADNESS Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 28 Year Old Ruby Port Pipe

Tasting notes by Master Blender, Billy Leighton:

Nose: Fleshy mango, kiwi & green banana and ripe plums

Taste: Vanilla & cinnamon, port wine and barley grains

Finish:  Lingering succulent fruits, toasted oak and light spice 

About METHOD AND MADNESS

Launched in February 2017 to push the boundaries of Irish whiskey, METHOD AND MADNESS is crafted in Midleton Distillery, harnessing the creativity of Midleton’s whiskey masters through the fresh talent of its apprentices. Taking inspiration from the famous Shakespearean quote, ‘Though this be madness, yet there is method in ’t’, METHOD AND MADNESS is designed to reflect a next generation Irish spirit brand with a measure of curiosity and intrigue (MADNESS), while honouring the tradition and expertise grounded in the generations of expertise at the Midleton Distillery (METHOD)

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

IRISH DISTILLERS’ PRESTIGE RANGE OF IRISH WHISKEYS HITS GOLD IN SAN FRANCISCO

– Powers John’s Lane 12 Years Old crowned Best Irish Whiskey –

Irish Distillers, maker of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, has scooped a remarkable 24 Gold or above medals at the recent International Spirits Challenge and San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Top honours were awarded to Powers John’s Lane 12 Years Old, scooping Best Single Pot Still Whiskey and Best Irish Whiskey at the annual tasting in San Francisco.

New members of the Irish Distillers family, Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest (released October 2017) and Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength (released April 2018), were also highly commended, winning Double Gold medals on their first outing at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. These accolades have set the bar high for the rest of the awards season, suggesting further success is on the horizon for both of these prestige offerings from the Midleton family of Irish whiskeys.

In addition, Redbreast 12 Year Old Cask Strength claimed its fourth Double Gold medal in a row at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition – a testament to the consistency in quality of single pot still Irish whiskey craftsmanship at the Midleton Distillery, County Cork. With four Gold or above medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Redbreast has once again cemented its place as the most decorated single pot still Irish whiskey in the world.

In total, the prestige range from Irish Distillers secured one Best, six Double Gold and 17 Gold medals across the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) and International Spirits Challenge (ISC):

• Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest: Double Gold (SFWSC) and Gold (ISC)
• Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength: Double Gold (SFWSC)
• Powers John’s Lane 12 Years Old: Double Gold, Best Irish Whiskey & Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey (SFWSC)
• Redbreast 12 Year Old Cask Strength: Double Gold (SFWSC)
• Midleton Very Rare 2017: Double Gold (SFWSC)
• Redbreast 21 Year Old: Double Gold (SFWSC) and Gold (ISC)
• Redbreast 15 Year Old: Gold (SFWSC)
• Powers Signature Release: Gold (SFWSC)
• Powers Three Swallow Release: Gold (SFWSC)
• Powers Gold Label: Gold (SFWSC)
• METHOD AND MADNESS Single Pot Still Finished in French Chestnut: Gold (ISC)
• Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson 18 Year: Gold (ISC)
• Jameson Irish Whiskey: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Irish Whiskey Caskmates IPA Edition: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Signature: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Black Barrel: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Round: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Lively: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Cooper’s Croze: Gold medal (ISC)
• Jameson Blender’s Dog: Gold medal (ISC)

Billy Leighton, Master Blender at the Midleton Distillery, commented: “We are thrilled with the response to Midleton Dair Ghaelach Bluebell Forest and Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Cask Strength at one of the most renowned spirit tasting competitions in the world. It is also great to see the Powers and Redbreast ranges flourish, as they continue to excite a whole new generation with the quintessential single pot still style of Irish whiskey. These accolades are a tribute to the craftsmen and women at Midleton Distillery Co. Cork, past and present, who work tirelessly to produce whiskeys of unrivalled quality.”

Now in its 18^th year, the San Francisco World Spirits Challenge is one of the most influential spirits competitions in the world and is judged by a line-up of esteemed drinks journalists, producers and experts. Run each year in partnership with respected drinks trade bible, Drinks International, the International Spirits Challenge is one of the most authoritative and influential spirits competitions in the world and celebrates its 23^rd anniversary this year.

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

1792 SINGLE BARREL KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON AWARDED DOUBLE GOLD AT 2018 SAN FRANCISCO WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION

Eight other Barton 1792 whiskies awarded medals 

BARDSTOWN, KENTUCKY (June 19, 2018) – The results from the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition are in and Barton 1792 Distillery received a double gold medal for its 1792 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon. In total, Barton 1792 Distillery received nine medals from the competition, including two gold medals.

This year, 48 spirits experts convened to judge a record breaking entry of more than 2,469 spirits in a blind taste testing.

1792 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon received a high honor of double gold, meaning each judge gave this bourbon a gold medal. The double gold medal is given to exceptional spirits that set the standard for each category.

Other Barton 1792 Distillery whiskies recognized by the SFWSC included gold, silver and bronze medals.

Gold:

• 1792 High Rye Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Kentucky Tavern Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Silver:

• 1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 1792 Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• 1792 Bottled in Bond Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Very Old Barton 80 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Very Old Barton 90 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bronze:

• Zackariah Harris Kentucky Straight Bourbon

This competition is associated with the Triple Crown of Competitions (The San Francisco International Wine Competition and New York World Wine and Spirits Competition,) and continues to be highly respected and the most influential spirits competition after 18 years.

Results from the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition can be found at http://sfspiritscomp.com/results/.  

About Barton 1792 Distillery

Barton 1792 Distillery is part of Barton Brands.  Barton Brands has facilities in Bardstown, Ky., Carson, Calif., and Baltimore, Md. Barton Brands is owned by the Sazerac Company, an American family-owned company based in New Orleans, La. Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operating Distillery in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Distillery is located on 196 acres and includes 28 warehouses, 22 other buildings, the Morton Spring and the Tom Moore Spring.  Distilling, aging and bottling fine Bourbon whiskey are hallmarks of the historic Barton 1792 Distillery. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is produced at Barton 1792 Distillery. This whiskey is named for the year Kentucky became a state and is the recent gold medal winner at the 2017 Los Angeles International Spirits Competition. To learn more visit www.1792bourbon.com

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY STIRKES GOLD

Judges award Buffalo Trace Distillery spirits with five Double Gold, 21 total medals 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (June 13, 2018) W.L. Weller 12 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon, William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon, George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Blanton’s Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon struck double gold at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The 18^th annual competition had another record-breaking year that featured 2,469 spirits which means there was an 11 percent increase from last year.  This year, 48 of the industry’s finest spirits experts reviewed each entry with a blind taste test, ultimately awarding Buffalo Trace with five Double Gold medals. The celebrated Double Gold medal is awarded when all 48 judges assign Gold to a spirit.

Double Gold

• W.L. Weller 12 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• George T. Stagg Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Blanton’s Single Barrel of Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Gold

• Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey
• W. L. Weller Antique Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Rain Vodka

Silver

• Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• W. L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• Wheatley Vodka
• Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Bronze

• Eagle Rare 17 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream Liqueur

“We are honored to be recognized with these awards among the 2,469 entries in this competition,” Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, said. “This is a great honor for us, and we could not be more thankful to receive each of these great awards.”

Complete results for the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition can be found at http://sfspiritscomp.com/results/.

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

International Beverage Celebrates Golden Medal Streak

Quality recognised with Wins at Five International Competitions

International Beverage Holdings is celebrating over 30 world class wins in the first few months of 2018, after scooping an impressive haul of honours across five global drinks industry competitions.

The company’s acclaimed portfolio of premium whiskies and gins has made an impression on industry judging panels around the world, winning two prestigious ‘best in class’ awards, four double gold medals and nine gold medals in competition.

Results from these influential awards saw the sweet and spicy Speyburn 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Caorunn Scottish Gin, the full bodied Hankey Bannister’s Heritage Blended Scotch and Catto’s 12 Year Old Blended Scotch all take much coveted double gold medals in San Francisco’s World Spirit Competition. Old Pulteney 12 and 25 Year Old Single Malts and Speyburn’s Arranta Casks Single Malt were also awarded gold.

Speyburn also made waves in the New York International Spirits Competition, scooping the coveted ‘10 Year Old Single Malt of the Year’ accolade for its medium bodied malt, plus a gold medal for Arranta Casks which boasts a bold citrusy finish. There were more golds at the International Spirits Challenge, this time for Old Pulteney 25 Year Old Single Malt and  Balblair 2000 and 1991 Vintages.

At the prestigious World Whisky Awards it was anCnoc 2002 which triumphed, being named overall winner of the Scottish Highlands 13-20 Year Old category. Old Pulteney 25 Year Old Single Malt also took gold alongside Hankey Bannister Heritage Blend.

To cap the medal haul, the International Beverage portfolio received a further eight silver and two bronze medals across the competitions and a variety of accolades in this year’s Ultimate Spirits Challenge.

Commenting on the wins, Martin Leonard, Managing Director of Inver House Distillers (part of the International Beverage group) said: “2018 has been a fantastic year for our brands so far and the hardworking teams across our five Scottish distilleries are all very proud to have received so much global recognition for their dedication and hard work. Each of these competitions has a strict set of criteria and tough judging processes, so these medals are a real testament to the craftsmanship and outstanding quality of our spirits.” 

About International Beverage Holdings

International Beverage Holdings Limited is one of the industry’s most dynamic global drinks businesses. Established in 2006 as the international arm of ThaiBev, the company specialises in developing distinctive, premium local brands for global growth, with a portfolio that is led by a range of high quality Scotch whiskies and includes some of the fastest growing and most prestigious beers, spirits and whiskies on the market today. These high quality brands are enjoyed by consumers in over 85 global markets and include:

• Chang, Thailand’s iconic global beer brand
• Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc, Speyburn
• Blended Scotch Whiskies: Hankey Bannister, Catto’s, MacArthur’s
• Caorunn, a super premium small batch distilled Scottish Gin infused with 5 Celtic botanicals
• Thai spirits: Phraya, Mekhong

International Beverage’s international operation is headquartered in Hong Kong, with two major bases in China and Scotland and a growing number of regional hubs around the world. The business is focused on the delivery of winning investment, sales and marketing strategies and is committed to producing brands of character, representing the care and craftsmanship of the people that make them – from the brewers of Chang Beer in Thailand, to the distillers of the fine single malt Scotch whisky Old Pulteney in Scotland. Crucially, the global development of every brand continues to be rooted in its home territory, supporting the company’s mission to build authentic brands of outstanding character.

International Beverage is investing in ambitious growth across its global operation, employing over 850 highly skilled people across production, sales, marketing and finance, together forming an effective and expert international team.

Whisky 101 event taking place at The Gallery in West Hampstead for American Independence Day

In America, the annual celebration of independence on 4th July means fireworks, barbecues and many patriotic displays. To commemorate this, The Gallery in West Hampstead will be throwing their own transatlantic festivities in a Whisky 101 event on Thursday 5th July. Guests will be invited to gorge on a banquet of Southern American style food, beer and bourbon to celebrate the traditions of the United States.

On offer will be a delicious Southern American style feast, including pulled pork sliders and crispy fried chicken. This can be washed down with a range of whiskies provided by classic Kentucky distiller, Heaven Hill or paired with refreshing beers from London-based brewers FourPure.The ambassadors for Heaven Hill and FourPure will also be on hand to chat share their immense knowledge of the processes of bourbon and beer making. American rock n roll, funk and soul DJs will provide the soundtrack to the evening and keep the Americana party spirit going.

Tickets cost £15 and includes the food and one cocktail and beer. Please email info@ilovethegallery.com.

MASTER BLENDER AND MASTER PERFUMER UNITE TO CREATE CROWNING EXPRESSION, INSPIRED BY ROYALTY

The ‘King of Whisky’ launches latest in annual Flask Collection: 

Royal Salute 28 Year Old Kew Palace Edition 

The ‘King of Whisky’, Royal Salute, has unveiled the exceptional new Royal Salute 28 Year Old Kew Palace Edition, the latest in its annual Flask Collection. The rich, round and silky blend is the result of an exciting, first-time collaboration between Royal Salute’s Director of Blending, Sandy Hyslop, and esteemed perfumer Barnabé Fillion, and is inspired by the magnificent Kew Palace and its iconic Kitchen Garden.

Combining Hyslop’s unparalleled knowledge of Scotch whisky with Fillion’s inimitable artistic acumen, the 28 Year Old Kew Palace Edition balances Royal Salute’s signature style with super rich fruits, scented flora like violet and aromatic leaves from the Kitchen Garden, resulting in the ultimate sensory experience that pushes the boundaries of modern blending.

The collaboration saw Hyslop lay the foundations of the new blend before uniting with Fillion to create a bespoke whisky top dressing that embodied the iconic Kitchen Garden of Kew Palace. The two worked together, nosing countless whiskies in Hyslop’s blending room in Scotland, to capture their interpretation of the lush flora of the Kitchen Garden, while staying true to Royal Salute’s signature style.

It follows the launch of the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Flask Edition last year, and this next iteration in the collector’s series again offers a disruptive take on traditional British drinking traditions. The perfect companion for whisky aficionados on the move, the set includes a bespoke green porcelain flagon and exquisite flask, alongside a pouring funnel and wooden serving tray.

The new expression pays homage to London’s iconic Kew Palace, one of Historic Royal Palace’s most charming royal buildings, as part of Royal Salute’s longstanding support of the charity charged with conserving some of Britain’s royal palaces for future generations. The Palace and its famed Kitchen Garden are showcased on the stunning packaging through artwork from esteemed British illustrator, Jason Brooks.

Royal Salute Marketing Director, Mathieu Deslandes said: “We are thrilled to unveil this exceptional 28 Year Old whisky, made even more special by the coming together of two industry experts. Sandy Hyslop is the absolute pinnacle when it comes to blending so to be able to further enhance his latest creation with some magic from long-time friend of the brand and famed perfumer, Barnabe Fillion, is really special – and the result, the whisky, speaks for itself.

“We’re proud to continue supporting our charity partner, Historic Royal Palaces, with a limited edition inspired by Kew Palace. The charity does amazing work preserving and protecting historic royal buildings to keep their story alive for generations to come, and as a brand steeped in royal heritage, Royal Salute is thrilled to play its part honouring a true British icon in this unique and special way.”

For the first time in Royal Salute’s history, whisky aficionados will have the opportunity to enjoy a first look at the new whisky and its exquisite flask during an intimate event at Kew Palace in June. Hosted by Sandy Hyslop and Barnabé Fillion, it will provide a unique glimpse inside the world of Royal Salute, bring to life the inspiration behind the new Kew Palace Edition and offer an opportunity for aficionados to enjoy the company of those who share their passion.

Befitting its status as a true collector’s item, the Royal Salute 28 Year Old Kew Palace Edition will be available from June 2018 for a limited time at select luxury whisky retailers around the world, for RRP of $790.  For more information, visit http://www.royalsalute.com.

Notes 

Royal Salute 28 Year Old Kew Palace Edition Tasting Notes:
A rich, round and silky blend, inspired by Kew Palace and its magnificent kitchen garden. For the very first time, this exceptional whisky has been developed by Royal Salute’s Director of Blending Sandy Hyslop in collaboration with olfactory expert, Barnabe Fillion. The result is an exquisite whisky that balances Royal Salute’s classic style with scented flora, aromatic leaves and super rich fruits for a fantastic sensory experience.

Nose:

Intensely fruity with rich notes of ripe pear and a hint of aromatic autumnal leaves alongside delicate floral notes of violet.

Taste:

Rich, round and perfectly balanced with sweet natural honey flavours and scented flora.

Finish:

Deliciously long, smooth and sweet finish with a wisp of smoke. 

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 the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky and the No.1 Scotch whisky in China; Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky; The Glenlivet, the single malt whisky that set the standard; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.

www.chivasspirit.com

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,682 million in FY16. 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.