Press Releases

The Sazerac Company Considers New Bottling Facility in New Albany, Ind – American Whiskey News

Sazerac

The Sazerac Company Considers New Bottling Facility in New Albany, Ind.

Facility projected to bring up to 110 jobs to area 

NEW ALBANY, IND. (May 30, 2018) The Sazerac Company, one of the largest American family-owned distilling companies in the United States, announced today its intention to purchase a manufacturing facility in New Albany, Ind., where it will expand its processing, blending, packaging and distribution capabilities.  The facility, located at 707 Pillsbury Lane, is the former General Mills Pillsbury Plant, which closed in 2016.  The building has been vacant since its closing.

“We’re excited about the possibility of expanding our operations into Southern Indiana. Our contacts at the State of Indiana, the City of New Albany and the local economic development organization, One Southern Indiana, have been great partners to work with throughout this process. If all goes well, we look forward to getting our construction underway at the new facility, then on to staffing and running our new plant,” said Jeff Conder, Vice President of Manufacturing for Sazerac Co.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) has offered Sazerac up to $900,000 in conditional Economic Development for a Growing Economy (“EDGE”) tax credits and up to $150,000 in training grants from the Skills Enhancement Fund based on the company’s job-creation plans. These incentives are performance-based, meaning until Indiana workers are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives.

“Indiana’s business-friendly environment and skilled workforce offer companies like Sazerac the perfect recipe for continued success,” said Elaine Bedel, president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). “We’re excited to welcome Sazerac to the Hoosier state as it establishes its first facility here, increasing its manufacturing footprint and creating good jobs in southeast Indiana.”

The New Albany City Council is scheduled to vote on final approval of the company’s local incentives next week, with the $66 million project contingent upon the council’s approval. Should incentives be granted, Sazerac anticipates starting operations as early as November of this year with a staff of approximately 50 new employees.  By the close of 2021, Sazerac estimates the 460,000-square-foot former food plant could be at full capacity and fully staffed with 110 workers in total. The company intends to start with two production lines upon opening.

“When General Mills announced it would close its doors a couple years ago, we worked hard to help the employees most affected by the news. With Sazerac on the verge of coming to New Albany, I can’t help but marvel at how far we’ve come,” said New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan. “I would like to welcome the Sazerac team to New Albany with a pledge to support their efforts to put down roots here and prosper along with us. Sazerac has a rich and storied past, and I am certain this quality company will be embraced by our community. We are excited, and we expect that this will be the beginning of a long and prosperous friendship between Sazerac and the City of New Albany.”

Sazerac has grown significantly over the past several years and has invested heavily in its manufacturing network, including large investments in its three plants in Kentucky. Its Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort is undergoing a $1.2 billion investment over the next ten years, including new mash cookers, bottling lines and barrel warehouses.  The company’s Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown completed a $15 million distillery and grain drying upgrade in 2017, and The Glenmore Distillery in Owensboro completed a $45 million addition in 2016 with a new state-of-the-art distribution center.

“We’re so pleased we’ve been able to invest in our facilities as we have grown our brands. Extending our manufacturing footprint into Indiana will support future growth,” added Conder.  “The business-friendly environment and the proximity of this facility to our three Kentucky plants make it an ideal location.”

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana said, “1si is always excited when a company of Sazerac’s prestige and success considers expanding in Southern Indiana.  This will be a double shot of good news – it not only benefits our region by creating over 100 new jobs, but also because the company is willing to make a significant investment in an existing building that has sat unoccupied for nearly two years.”  Chesser continued, “We wish Sazerac all the best and stand ready to assist them in the future.”

Pending local incentive approval, the purchase is expected to be completed June 11th.  The purchase price is not being disclosed.  

About the Sazerac Company

Sazerac is one of America’s oldest family owned, privately held distillers with operations in the United States in Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Virginia, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maryland, California, and global operations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, India, Australia and Canada. For more information on Sazerac, please visit www.sazerac.com. 

About One Southern Indiana

One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to provide the connections, resources and services that help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area.

Since its inception, the organization has evolved to include a three-prong approach to serve its members and investors. Business Resources, as the chamber side of the organization, encompasses membership, signature events and programs which support and encourage business growth; Economic Development works to grow the regional economy through the attraction of new commerce and assists with retention and expansion of existing businesses; Advocacy supports businesses at the government level by engaging in the initiatives to preserve, protect and promote a business-friendly environment free of obstacles to growth and development of commerce. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Johnnie Walker launches new Keep Walking campaign around the world – Scotch Whisky News

johnnie-walker

Johnnie Walker launches new Keep Walking campaign around the world

The new campaign, the latest in Johnnie Walker’s award-winning ‘Keep Walking’ series, celebrates what happens when great whiskies and great people come together.

Drawing on the fact that Johnnie Walker whiskies are crafted by bringing together some of the best individual whiskies from the four corners of Scotland – the Highland, Island, Speyside and Lowland regions – the campaign focuses on why its whiskies are the perfect choice for bringing people together.

In keeping with Johnnie Walker’s long-standing philosophy of progress, Keep Walking features a series of feel-good films that recognise it’s not just about where you are going, it’s about who you walk with.

The multi-media campaign, which will be brought to life around the world across TV, digital and out of home media, will be supported by a multi-million pound investment from Diageo’s Global Travel that sees the creative featuring prominently across all Heathrow terminals and at Edinburgh airport.

The global Johnnie Walker takeover will run until September 2018 and will also feature across British Airways flights, with the new film running on in-flight entertainment, in the BA lounge in Heathrow and on the cover of BA’s in-flight magazine ‘High Life’.

The campaign follows Diageo’s announcement of a £150 million investment over three years to transform its Scotch whisky visitor experiences in the biggest concerted programme ever seen in Scotland’s whisky tourism sector – including plans for the opening of a new Johnnie Walker brand experience in Edinburgh.

““A commitment to making quality whisky for quality times has always been important to us and it’s great to talk about that. For the best part of 200 years we’ve sought out the best whiskies from all over Scotland for people to enjoy when they get together with those who matter to them. That’s what really excites me about this campaign, it’s a chance to put a spotlight on the fact that we bring together exceptional tasting Scotch Whiskies from every nook and cranny of the country and spend our time crafting them so that people can enjoy amazing flavours when they get together with their friends and family.””

John Williams

Johnnie Walker Global Brand Director

Jim Beam Black® Curates the Ultimate Father’s Day Gift: The Bonding Over Bourbon Experience – American Whiskey News

JB2018

Jim Beam Black® Curates the Ultimate Father’s Day Gift: The Bonding Over Bourbon Experience

CHICAGO, June 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Knowing that sometimes all it takes is a sip of great bourbon and a little extra quality time to deepen bonds, Jim Beam Black® Bourbon has curated the ultimate Father’s Day gift this year: The Bonding Over Bourbon Experience by Jim Beam Black®. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows legal drinking age fans to treat their father (or father-figure) to the ultimate weekend away in the birthplace of bourbon, Kentucky — all for the price of a single bottle of the world’s highest rated bourbon¹.

The Bonding Over Bourbon Experience by Jim Beam Black includes:

•    Round-trip flights for two to Kentucky
•    Two-night hotel stay in downtown Louisville
•    Behind-the-scenes distillery tour at the Jim Beam® American Stillhouse in Clermont, Ky
•    Exclusive experience with Jim Beam’s 7th Generation Master Distiller, Fred Noe
•    Classic Southern Dinner for two in Louisville
•    Round of golf at a local premium course
•    Limited-edition Jim Beam Black gift box with personalized Father’s Day card, decanter, rocks glasses and luggage tag

A select number of The Bonding Over Bourbon Experience packages will be released on Store.JimBeam.com for $24.99² starting Monday, June 4, 2018 at 10am ET. Jim Beam Black will release additional packages leading up to Father’s Day, publishing release timing exclusively at Facebook.com/JimBeamUS.

“Father’s Day has always been a special day for me to spend quality time with my dad and now my son, Freddie,” said Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s 7th Generation Master Distiller. “With this unique Father’s Day gift package, we hope to provide the perfect setting for fathers and sons or daughters to share some stories, create some new memories and enjoy some good bourbon together with the Beam family.”

Jim Beam Black is a premium bourbon with a flavorful character made to be sipped and savored. The patient aging process that Jim Beam Black undergoes brings forward the full flavor and character of a premium bourbon. The price varies by market and product size, which includes 50mL, 375mL, 750mL, 1L, and 1.75L, and is available in bars and retail locations nationwide.

¹ Jim Beam Black® was rated the #1 bourbon in the world after winning the Bourbon Trophy, the highest awarded accolade in the bourbon category at the 2016 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).
² All income taxes on trip are the purchasers’ sole responsibility. Trip purchasers will be issued an IRS Form 1099 for the value of the package, and will be required to fill out an affidavit and W-9 prior to the order being fulfilled and shipped out by Jim Beam.

About Jim Beam® Bourbon

Jim Beam is the world’s best-selling bourbon, crafted by seven generations of family distillers since 1795. Elegant. Smooth. Refined. That’s what years of aging in new charred oak barrels does to our Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s 7th Generation Master Distiller, has stayed true to the family recipe that’s been passed down through generations. The Jim Beam portfolio of products includes Jim Beam Bourbon, Jim Beam Black, Jim Beam Double Oak, Jim Beam Devil’s Cut, Jim Beam Bonded, Jim Beam Rye, Jim Beam Distiller’s Masterpiece, Jim Beam Vanilla, Jim Beam Apple, Jim Beam Honey and Jim Beam Kentucky Fire among other offerings.

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.

RARE DALMORE MAKES EXCEPTIONAL PRICE AT BONHAMS WHISKY SALE IN EDINBURGH – Scotch Whisky News

Dalmore50

RARE DALMORE MAKES EXCEPTIONAL PRICE AT BONHAMS WHISKY SALE IN EDINBURGH
– £900 A DRAM – 
 

Dalmore 50 year-old 1926. Sold for £33,750

A rare bottle of Dalmore 50 year-old 1926 tripled its pre-sale estimate to sell for £33,750 at Bonhams Whisky Sale in Edinburgh today, Wednesday 6 June, making a dram worth more than £900.  The bottle had been estimated at £10,000-14,000.

Bonhams Whisky specialist Martin Green said, “The Dalmore 50 year-old 1926 is an exceptional whisky, and I am not surprised that the bidding was so intense and the price achieved so high. It was a very strong sale overall with bidders taking full advantage of the opportunity to add some very special bottles to their collections.”

Other highlights included:

  • A bottle of the Macallan 1951 that sold for £17,500.  One of only 632 bottles, it had been estimated at £10,000-12,000
  • A bottle of Glenfiddich-1952. Estimated at £10,000-12,000, it sold for £16,250.
  • A bottle of the Macallan 1957. Bottled in 1982 in honour of the 25th Anniversary of Rinaldi Brothers Inc., it made £8,750 against an estimate of £3,000-4,000.
  • Two bottles of the Macallan-Glenlivet 35 year-old 1938. Sold as a pair for £6,875 having been estimated at £3,400-4,000.

In total, the sale made £433,150 with 92% of lots being sold.

Sale: Whisky
Location: 22 Queen Street Edinburgh
Date: Wednesday 6 June at 11.00 am
Specialist: Martin Green

NOTES

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned auctioneers, offering fine art and antiques, motor cars and jewellery. The main salerooms are in London, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong, with auctions also held in Knightsbridge, Edinburgh, Paris, San Francisco and Sydney. With a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 22 countries, Bonhams offers advice and valuation services in 60 specialist areas. For a full list of forthcoming auctions, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com

ABERLOUR A’BUNADH BATCH 52 WINS WHISKY OF THE YEAR AT THE 2018 INTERNATIONAL WHISKY COMPETITION® – Whisky News

IWC

ABERLOUR A’BUNADH BATCH 52 WINS WHISKY OF THE YEAR AT THE 2018 INTERNATIONAL WHISKY COMPETITION®

[LAS VEGAS, NV, June 8, 2018] Graeme Cruickshank, Master Distiller at Aberlour Distillery becomes Master Distiller of the Year for crafting the Whisky of the Year 2018 and will receive the coveted Golden Barrel Trophy.

The International Whisky Competition just released its results for this year’s most respected blind tasting judging event. The top recognition, Whisky of the Year, was awarded to Aberlour A’Bunadh Batch 52 (60.5% ABV) which scored 97.4 points, the highest scoring whisky of the competition.

Official results: www.whiskycompetition.com/2018-results

The 9th edition of the International Whisky Competition took place in Las Vegas over three days, from May 15 to 17 and received over 160 different whiskies. A world-class tasting panel made of whisky, spirit, beer and wine experts blind tasted each whisky on an individual basis (8 minutes per whisky). The judges for 2018 are Sir Adam Carmer, Sebastien Gavillet, Francesco Lafranconi, John Paddon, Debbi Peek, Alex Renshaw, Max Solano, Ron Smith and Agi Toth.

Each whisky was scored using a comprehensive 100-point scale system developed by Sebastien Gavillet, IWC Head of Tasting Panel. This process and the fact that only three medals are awarded in any category make the International Whisky Competition the most followed whisky competition and one of the most professional competitions of its kind in the world.

We warmly congratulate Graeme Cruickshank, Master Distiller at Aberlour, as well as his team, for creating such a complex, rich and perfectly balanced whisky.

Last year’s Whisky of the Year was Ardbeg Kelpie Committee Exclusive, which scored 97.3 points. Aberlour Distillery will receive the Golden Barrel Trophy for winning the Whisky of the Year during a ceremony to be held this summer in Aberlour, Scotland.

About the International Whisky Competition®

The International Whisky Competition is the most followed Whisky Competition on Social Media and brings whiskies from around the world to be blind tasted and rated by a professional tasting panel using the most comprehensive tasting method available. 15 criteria are required to produce the tasting notes as well as aroma and flavor profiles for the International Whisky Guide. Unlike other competitions, the judges are presented with one whisky at a time, to ensure each whisky gets the proper attention. It’s the only
competition in the spirits world to deliver unique medals designed to promote each of the winning whiskies. Only 3 medals (Gold, Silver & Bronze) are awarded per category.

The Whisky of the Year (highest score during the competition) gets rewarded with the Golden Barrel Trophy. For more information about the International Whisky Competition, please visit whiskycompetition.com or contact: USA – Sebastien Gavillet, Head of Judges / s.gavillet@whiskycompetition.com +1 702 234 3602 Canada – Sylvain Allard, Managing Director / s.allard@whiskycompetition.com +1 418 271 6678

A GROUND-BREAKING DAY FOR CHIVAS BROTHERS – Scotch Whisky News

A GROUND-BREAKING DAY FOR CHIVAS BROTHERS

WORLD-LEADING SCOTCH WHISKY PRODUCER, CHIVAS BROTHERS, RECENTLY BROKE GROUND ON ITS £50 MILLION EXPANSION AT KILMALID, DUMBARTON

Around 50 Chivas Brothers employees were joined by guest of honour and Dumbarton MSP, Jackie Baillie, and representatives of West Dunbartonshire Council at a celebratory event to mark the start of construction on the new world-class bottling hall. The project will greatly enhance the business’ capabilities and bring outstanding performance in quality, safety and efficiency.

Laurent Lacassagne, Chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers, kicked off the ceremony by thanking all those involved for their dedication to the ambitious £50m project, and pledging the company’s commitment to a long and successful future in Dunbartonshire. Marking the milestone together, all attendees were invited to take up a spade and break the ground at the same time.

Commenting on the occasion Laurent Lacassagne, Chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers, said: “It’s thanks to the hard work of all our team members here in Scotland that we’re in a position to make this investment, so everyone should be proud of what today represents. Breaking the ground is a very exciting and pivotal moment in our plans. It represents a major step change for our business as we continue to strive for operational excellence and strengthen our iconic Scotch whisky portfolio.

“It was fantastic to share this special occasion with colleagues, friends and partners because the new state-of-the-art bottling hall will bring opportunities for all of us. Not only will it bring economic benefits to Scotland, but also to the local Dunbartonshire community where we are proud to have built a rich 80-year legacy.”

Katie Murray, who works as a Kilmalid, is among the youngest team members there and started working for Chivas Brothers as an engineering apprentice in 2013. She said: “It’s great to see work starting on the new bottling hall. From what we’ve seen it’s going to be a great new workspace that will enable us to do our jobs even better. It’s an exciting time for our business and for all of us in manufacturing as we look to the future.”

Jackie Baillie MSP was taken on a behind-the-scenes tour of the site and met with employees to find out how the investment will help modernise manufacturing. Having watched the development of the project closely, Baillie praised Chivas Brothers’ investment and commitment to the future of the region.

She added: “Chivas Brothers’ investment is a huge boost for Dunbartonshire and will secure and create jobs over the long-term. The people of Dumbarton are very proud of the town’s great whisky heritage and I’m delighted to be able to mark this very special milestone with Chivas Brothers. I’ve watched the development of the project closely and look forward to watching the bottling hall start to take shape.”

Notes 

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 more than 300 warehouses across its 26 sites including Orkney, the Scottish mainland and London.

http://www.chivasbrothers.com/

Chivas-Brothers-Logo

R&B Distillery “Gifts for whisky-loving Dads” – Scotch Whisky News

TD1

The Tweeddale The Evolution: 

At 28 years-old, is the eldest Tweeddale to be released. It is fuller and more complex in character than previous expressions; with sherried and Speyside qualities, dark chocolate and black cherry on the nose, followed by wood spice and earthy notes on the palate. The Evolution of this magnificent whisky began when its creator Alasdair Day inherited his great grandfather Richard Day’s cellar book. Alasdair has explored the direction that he believes Richard Day would have taken, had he continued to blend whisky after the Second World War. £172 on Master of Malt

 TD2

Drams of The Tweeddale The Evolution at Truefitt & Hill: 

Truefitt & Hill has been recognised as the finest traditional gentlemen’s barber in London for over two centuries. On Saturday 16th June, the barber shop will open its doors to offer the ultimate father and son experience. Sons can honour their fathers on this special day by treating them to a day of all things quintessentially British. Upon arrival guests will be offered a dram of Scottish whisky, The Tweeddale – The Evolution. Guests will be able to enjoy treatments including a haircut or Traditional Hot Towel Wet Shave, a goody bag of grooming products as well as discount at some of Mayfair’s finest gentleman’s outfitters.

Tickets are £175 and available on Eventbrite.

 TD3

Membership to the An Roghainn Club: 

For those with with a very luxurious drinks cabinet, the Raasay Distillery, on the beautiful inner Hebridean island, is also offering the opportunity to join its exclusive An Roghainn Club. Members can invest in the emerging brand and have the chance to add limited release whisky to their personal libraries, as well as the opportunity to buy casks of the Isle of Raasay Distillery whisky. Membership to the An Roghainn Club is £250 and includes three full size bottles of limited release whisky.

 

The perfect whisky gift for Father’s Day from The Scotch Malt Whisky Society – Scotch Whisky News

Father's Day For a Dignfied Dad

Distinguished Father’s Day whisky FOR A DIGNIFIED DAD 

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society has the ideal bottle of whisky and membership offer for Father’s Day 

If your dad is a dignified chap, then The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) has the perfect gift for him this Father’s Day (Sunday 17th June 2018), with a special offer of membership to the SMWS including a limited edition single malt ‘For a dignified dad’ for only £130.

This 20-year-old Speyside whisky has matured in a refill ex-bourbon barrel to produce a single cask whisky that has been described as “characteristically waxy, oily, herbal and delicately tropical.”

Like the father in your life, ‘For a dignified dad’ carries an air of authority and experience that coveys that with “age brings distinction and the opportunity to wax lyrical, and deserves a respectful audience.”

With a stimulating nose and aroma of “hours spent in the garden or in the shed, emerging with the smell of soil from potting plants”, this whisky was bottled from a single cask that produced only 190 bottles, making it a limited edition single malt.

FATHER’S DAY OFFER

‘For a dignified dad’ and a membership to the Society costs only £130 which is a saving of £25. The whisky is from the Old & Dignified flavour category, which is one of the SMWS 12 flavour profiles.

Membership unlocks the doors to the Society’s unparalleled single cask whiskies, tasting events, the award-winning ‘Unfiltered’ magazine and Members Rooms and partners bars around the world.

New whiskies are released each month, providing an ever-changing choice of malts to discover.

Included in the offer:

  • Full SMWS Membership (costing £65)
  • 70cl bottle of: 36.142 ‘For a dignified dad’ (£90) 

Father’s Day offer valid from Friday 1st June until Monday 18th June 2018 Online media find out more here
Print media: https://www.smws.com/dignified-dad-offer

For more information on membership:
Online media go
here
Print media:
www.smws.com/society-membership

Tasting Notes: 

Title: For a dignified dad              

Bottle tasting note: Characteristically waxy, oily, herbal and delicately tropical as befits the slightly more old-school make of this distillery. Textbook stuff

Full tasting note: This old-school and dignified character exudes aromas of hours spent in concentrated industry out in the garden or in the shed, emerging with the smell of soil from potting plants, damp dunnage warehouses, as well as furniture wax, notes of camphor and wood resin. After strolling past gorse bushes, crossing a pine forest and picking brambles, it’s time to wash up with coal tar soap and relax with a little aged yellow Chartreuse, mint tea or Gewurztraminer. Age brings distinction and the opportunity to wax lyrical, and deserves a respectful audience.

Notes:

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

  • The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is an international whisky club that bottles rare single cask, single malt whisky, and a range of other spirits
  • The Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 26,000 members and branches around the world
  • The Society only ever bottles single casks – each cask is unique, making every Society bottling a limited edition
  • The Society has bottled whisky from more than 134 distilleries in its history
  • The Society releases a new batch of around 30 single cask, single malt whiskies every month
  • The Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar and Shop has over 200 whiskies on offer and is open to everybody
  • The Society offers a variety of membership’s packages which can be tailored. Please see www.smws.com/society-membership
  • For more information about the Society, visit www.smws.com

45 Year Old Single Malt Introduces Scottish Folklore Whisky Series – Scotch Whisky News

Cask 88a

Cask 88b

45 Year Old Single Malt Introduces Scottish Folklore Whisky Series

EDINBURGH — Thursday 31 May 2018 – Scottish whisky specialists Cask 88 have launched the first in a series of single cask whisky bottlings inspired by legends of Scottish folklore, starting with the fearsome Cù-Sìth to represent a venerable 45 Year Ben Nevis 1972 Single Malt.

Intended to bond the stories of Scotland’s unique history with the very finest expressions of its spirit, the Cask 88 Scottish Folklore series launches with a bottling inspired by the Cù-Sìth, a terrifying large hound, with a murderous bark, said to stalk the Highlands of Scotland. The whisky typifying this formidable beast is a 45 Year Old Ben Nevis 1972 Single Malt (70cl; 43.2% ABV; £650 RRP) aged in a sherry hogshead, of which only 228 bottles are available. This first bottling will be available from the Cask 88 online bottle shop from 31 May 2018.

The Cù-Sìth is a terrifyingly large hound, said to roam the Highlands of Scotland and prey upon weary travellers. Legend tells that anyone with the misfortune of hearing the beast bark three times will be transported to the underworld. European Sales Director Jonny Fowle, also whisky tastings and event organiser Wandering Whisky, said “The bold spirit of the Ben Nevis, which has matured for four and a half decades in the Scottish Highlands, is matched only by the equally indomitable spirit of the legendary Cù-Sìth. Both have drawn upon the region to develop in character and repute throughout the ages, making for a fine match.”

Cask 88 have worked closely with art historian and Celtic Revival specialist Dr Frances Fowle (co-curator of the Celts: Art and Identity exhibition, British Museum, 2015-16) to understand the history of the Cù-Sìth legend and its place in Scottish folklore. “It’s been a pleasure working with the Cask 88 team to bring Celtic myths to a wider audience. Local legends, rather like Scottish whisky, are part of our cultural identity,” said Dr Frances Fowle. “Stories have been passed down from generation to generation, sometimes in poetry and song, and often accompanied by a drop of fine whisky. In the Hebrides the more superstitious members of the community lived in fear of the Cù-Sìth, a large black ‘fairy dog’ who roamed silently across the landscape on winter nights.”

The Cask 88 Scottish Folklore Series will consist of six unique, single cask expressions, with each expression dictating the myth or legend it embodies. Each release in the Cask 88 Folklore series will feature a mythical beast who has roamed the highlands, stalked the lowlands or inhibited the islands. “We intend to create a fantastic collection of some of the finest Scottish whiskies, selected to represent the breadth and depth of Scotland’s world renowned culture and heritage, while playing our part in ensuring these enchanting myths and folktales endure for generations to come,” said Jonny.

The first bottling in The Cask 88 Scottish Folklore Series: Cù-Sìth is available for purchase from the Cask 88 online bottle shop from Thursday 31 May 2018, and in person from Cask 88 Sales Representatives globally.

For more information, visit: https://cask88.com/scottish-folklore-series-whisky/

Tasting Notes:

Nose

This whisky’s aroma instantly flaunts its forty five long years of maturation. A nutty character alongside the rich sweetness of rum molasses are followed by luxurious notes of rich dark fruit and cherry.

Taste

The indulgent richness of this cask’s dark and dried fruit character continue on the palate, but with the balance of citrus zest. This develops with notes of dark chocolate journeying into a mixture of tobacco leaves, dried herbs and a subtle oakiness.

Finish

Four and a half decades maturing in a single cask provide an incredibly long and complex finish, dancing between bitter chocolate, dry tobacco and sweet cherries with cinnamon and winter spice.

A rare single cask whisky with an incredibly rich and developed character.

Notes to Editors:

About Cask 88

Founded in 2007, Cask 88 is now internationally recognised as one of the world’s foremost whisky experts, selling old and rare casks and bottles from world-renowned distilleries. An extensive inventory and expansive global network provide an unparalleled selection of fine whiskies, which attracts a wide clientele from London, Hong Kong, Beijing to New York. Cask 88 believes that buying vintage whisky should be fun and offers clients the opportunity to select, purchase, label and package their own exclusive whisky drawn from the finest Scotch casks.

cask88.com

Follow Cask 88 on Twitter: @88Cask                        

Like Cask 88 on Facebook: facebook.com/cask88

THE MACALLAN 72 YEARS OLD IN LALIQUE, THE GENESIS DECANTER – Scotch Whisky News

Mac72

THE MACALLAN UNVEILS OLDEST WHISKY EVER RELEASED BY THE DISTILLERY –  

THE MACALLAN 72 YEARS OLD IN LALIQUE, THE GENESIS DECANTER

Limited Edition Single Malt Whisky to Arrive in the US, September 2018

Friday June 4, 2018 (New York, New York) – The Macallan, the world’s most admired single malt Scotch whisky has unveiled The Macallan 72 Years Old in Lalique – The Genesis Decanter – a remarkable new limited edition whisky to celebrate the new Macallan Distillery and Visitor Experience which opened its doors on June 2, 2018.

An exceptionally rare Macallan 72 Years Old single malt, The Genesis Decanter is the oldest whisky ever released by the Distillery and celebrates a monumental achievement for The Macallan – available for purchase in the United States, in September 2018 for an estimated retail price of $65,000.

The Genesis Decanter is inspired by and honors a new era for the the brand as it finds its new home in a truly magnificent architectural masterpiece. Similar to the new Distillery and Visitor Experience, the decanter is defined by its beautiful craftsmanship and rounded design. Presented in a bespoke crystal decanter handcrafted by Lalique, it is a celebration of the collaboration of masters from across the fields of whisky, crystal, architecture, construction and craftsmanship and marks a new beginning in The Macallan story.

For nearly two centuries the mastery of exceptional whisky making has been at the heart of The Macallan Estate and the new Distillery and Visitor Experience, designed by internationally acclaimed architects, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, embodies the care, passion and superior craftsmanship that goes into every drop of The Macallan.

Distilled back in the 1940s, The Macallan 72 Years Old is a peerless spirit which began its journey to maturation during the optimistic post Second World War period and this atmosphere of reinvention inspired the new Distillery and the whisky and design of The Genesis Decanter.

For its seventy-two years of maturation, the deceptively light color hints that this is not an ordinary single malt. Reminiscent of a time gone by, it carries an exquisite balance of strong, sweet oak with the peaty spirit shaping its refined character. The whisky delivers surprise and delight with aromas of fruit followed by distinctive hints of peat, all the way through to the back of the mouth where it is finished off with a lingering hint of rich fruit and oak.

Nick Savage, The Macallan Master Distiller, remarks, “The Macallan 72 Years Old is an incredibly rare single malt defined by years of dedication and craftsmanship. As the oldest whisky we have ever bottled, this is a truly momentous occasion to commemorate our remarkable new Distillery. Although delicate throughout all aspects, it provides an intense experience which acknowledges the distinguished history of The Macallan.”

Lalique has captured the character of the new architectural wonder in crystal, incorporating the clean lines and natural curves of the new Distillery. The smooth curvature of the unique roof structure defines the decanter’s design, suggestive of the building rising and falling from the ground. Marrying together modern techniques with traditional skills, each decanter is handcrafted by master craftsmen who elevate the complex crystal making process to create a stunning art piece.

“Our new Distillery is both a tribute to the traditions of our whisky and its natural Speyside environment, and a future-facing vision, looking forward to the next chapter of The Macallan.” Said Ken Grier, Creative Director for The Macallan.  “Lalique have a deep and true understanding of The Macallan, having been our partner for over a decade. Their interpretation of this design masterpiece in crystal is beyond exceptional. Their mastery and creativity never ceases to amaze and inspire us and our extraordinary collaboration is reflective of the highly meaningful part Lalique have played in the story of The Macallan.”

Silvio Denz, Chairman of Lalique, said, “Lalique is very honored to be associated with such an important moment in the story of The Macallan, with the creation of this commemorative decanter. Our long-term partnership with The Macallan, which started over a decade ago, is based on shared values of excellence, craftsmanship and creativity; and the truly spectacular and never-before-seen architecture of the new Distillery & Visitor Experience has been highly inspiring for the design of the decanter.”

The Genesis Decanter is housed in a bespoke presentation case, designed by Burgess Studio and inspired by the interior of the Distillery, with a curved wooden roof over the decanter, and a footprint taken directly from the circular layout of the three new stillhouses. Handcrafted from the finest materials by The Royal Warrant holding cabinet makers, NEJ Stevenson, using only sustainably sourced timbers, the exterior is waterfall bubinga, with each bowl carved from mahogany layered with light maple. All drawer linings and fitments are hand-applied in pure suede and fabric, with latches and hinges in solid brass.

The Macallan 72 Years Old single malt will be rolled out globally from September 2018 and will be limited to 600 decanters worldwide (156 allocated to USA), with an estimated retail price of $65,000 per 750ml decanter. Further details about this unique whisky will be disclosed nearer to the actual arrival of the decanters.

For further information visit, us.themacallan.com 

Whisky Makers Notes:

ABV: 42%

Color: Golden amber

Nose: A delicate peat starts, leading to a soft, aged oak smoke. A body of refreshing citrus lemons and green apples, with a background of vanilla pods and raisins, with the smallest hint of ginger.

Palate: Delicate peat smoke combines with a soft vanilla, and a surprising sweet oak smoke. A gentle wood spice combines with a delicate peat smoke, which gradually fades to leave a viscous mouth coating of citrus fruits and subtle green apples.

Finish: Medium and fruity, with a sweet oaky mouth feel.

MacM

MacL

About The Macallan

Founded in 1824 in the heart of Speyside, The Macallan was one of the first distilleries in Scotland to be legally licensed. Since then it has built a reputation as one of the world’s finest single malt whiskies.  The story of The Macallan is built on the Six Pillars, each influencing the whisky in its own distinct way. From the spiritual home of Easter Elchies House; curiously small stills giving richness to the pure spirit; finest cut of the distillation, to exceptional oak casks which account for up to 80% of the final flavor in the whisky; natural color and finally peerless spirit, The Macallan itself.

Wood sits at the heart of The Macallan. The vital contributing influences of Spain, North America and Scotland, together with true mastery, set it apart from the rest. For more information on The Macallan, visit us.themacallan.com. The Macallan can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Lalique

Founded in 1888, Lalique is one of the crown jewels of France’s crystal glass industry. René Lalique, renowned as the inventor of modern jewellery, went on to become a master in the art of glassmaking. Over time, his name has become the powerful symbol of a unique expertise, a synonym for luxury, excellence, creativity and for a widely celebrated artistic style. Through its contemporary work in six areas, Lalique revives and pursues the creative, eclectic work of its founder: jewellery, decorative items, interior design, fragrances, art, as well as hospitality. All crystal items are handcrafted in the company’s sole manufacturing site, which has been located in the Alsace region in France since 1921. Lalique continues to thrive as a truly timeless lifestyle brand. www.lalique.com


Powered by WordPress