TREAT THE WHISKY LOVER IN YOUR LIFE TO A SELECTION OF AWARD-WINNING WHISKIES THIS CHRISTMAS WITH THE PEATED MALTS OF DISTINCTION® GIFT PACK

INCLUDING THE ARDMORE, CONNEMARA, BOWMORE & LAPHROAIG 

Spoil your loved ones this festive season with four award-winning whiskies in this exclusive Peated Malts of Distinction® gift pack. Explore Scotland and Ireland’s most celebrated whiskies with The Ardmore®, Connemara®, Bowmore® and Laphroaig®. 

This unparalleled collection will take you on a journey through smoky whisky, offering a varied flavour palate from silky, sweet The Ardmore Legacy and honeyed Connemara, to spicy Bowmore No.1 and the full-bodied smoke of Laphroaig Select. There is plenty for peated whisky lovers and newcomers alike to enjoy. 

TREASURED TRADITION

Each expression within the Peated Malts of Distinction gift pack is crafted with generations-old techniques passed down to produce peated whiskies for any palate and pocket.

Growing just millimetres per year, each peat bog cultivated in the creation of the Peated Malts of Distinction whiskies has a unique terroir, giving the whiskies their own distinctive character. Once cut, the peat is air-dried before being burnt in the distilleries’ smokehouse kiln beneath the malt to add a gentle or intense smoky flavour to the whiskies.

With an offering spanning the finest examples of peated malts from award-winning distilleries including Laphroaig, the world’s No. 1 Islay malt, to Connemara – Ireland’s only peated malt, Peated Malts of Distinction offers a range of unparalleled diversity and quality. 

PAIRING FOR PERSONALITY

Peated Malts of Distinction encourages you to explore its range to discover your ideal peated whisky. The journey begins in the snowy climbs of the Scottish highlands with The Ardmore Legacy – a lightly peated expression that showcases hints of creamy vanilla, balanced with sweet honey and spice.

For Irish whiskey fans, Connemara is a must-have. Often described as “Islay meets Ireland”, it retains the smooth and sweet taste of Irish whiskey with the smoky taste associated with Islay Malt whiskies.

Introducing you to Islay is Bowmore No. 1. From Islay’s first distillery and the home of the world’s oldest Scotch maturation warehouse, the legendary No.1 Vaults, Bowmore is one of the most collectable single malts in the world. Meticulous maturation in the No.1 Vaults leads to a perfectly balanced peated whisky with smooth and mellow vanilla sweetness, cinnamon spice, zesty citrus and a hint of coconut culminating in a long lasting peat taste.

Heavily-peated Laphroaig has been dividing opinions since 1815. Malt masters with the confidence to seek out richer whisky experiences will relish Laphroaig Select; sparkling gold in colour, this is a full-bodied and complex whisky reminiscent of burning peat embers with hints of coconut and banana.

Treat your loved one this Christmas and help them find their favourite peated malt whisky with this exclusive gift box. The whiskies are presented in a premium wrapped closing box featuring photography of each distillery alongside 4x5cl miniatures. The gift pack is available from specialist retailers for RRP £20.

Notes: 

The Ardmore®

For Highland whisky drinkers keen to experience something more unusual, this lightly peated whisky is an interesting addition to any collection, bringing together generations-old traditions of peated malt craft with a uniquely contemporary whisky brand, taste buds will soar to new heights with The Ardmore.

www.ardmorewhisky.com

Awards:

IWSC 2017 | Silver for The Ardmore Traditional Peated

IWSC 2017 | Silver for The Ardmore Legacy

IWSC 2017 | Silver for The Ardmore Triple Wood

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for The Ardmore Legacy

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for The Ardmore Triple Wood

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Bronze for The Ardmore Traditional Peated 

Connemara®

The only remaining example of a peated Irish malt in the world, Connemara is smooth and sweet with complex peat flavours make for a robust whiskey that’s unlike any other from the Emerald Isle.

www.kilbeggandistillingcompany.com

Awards:

ISC 2017 | Silver for Connemara Peated Single Malt Irish Whiskey

Bowmore®

Crafted at the home of the world’s oldest Scotch maturation warehouse, the legendary No.1 Vaults, Bowmore is one of the most collectable single malts in the world. Perfectly balanced, smooth and mellow with a long lasting peat taste, Bowmore is a mid-to-highly peated whisky.

www.bowmore.com

Awards:

ISC 2017 | Gold for 12 Year Old

ISC 2017 | Gold for 18 Year Old (GTR)

ISC 2017 | Silver for Vault Editions Atlantic Sea Salt

ISC 2017 | Silver for 18 Year Old (Domestic)

ISC 2017 | Silver for 15 Year Old Darkest

ISC 2017 | Silver for Bowmore No.1

ISC 2017 | Silver for Bowmore 10 Year Old

ISC 2017 | Silver for Bowmore 15 Year Old

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Gold for 18 Year Old

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Silver for 15 Year Old Darkest

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Silver for 12 Year Old

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Gold for 12 Year Old

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Gold for 18 Year Old (GTR)

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for 10 Year Old

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for 15 Year Old

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for 15 Year Old Darkest

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for 18 Year old

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for Bowmore No.1

International Spirits Challenge 2017 | Silver for Vault Editions Atlantic Sea Salt 

Laphroaig®

An alchemic blend of casks, Laphroaig is the iconic malt from Islay – the undisputed capital of peated malts and features a nose reminiscent of burning peat embers in a crofter’s fireplace with hints of coconut and banana that gives way to a deep, complex and smoky flavour with a gentle sweetness.

www.laphroaig.com

Awards:

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig 10 Year Old

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Triple Wood

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Select

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Quarter Cask

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Lore

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig PX

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Double gold for Laphraoig Lore

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Gold for Laphraoig 10 Year Old

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Silver for Select

IWSC 2017 | Gold for Laphroaig Quarter Cask

IWSC 2017 | Gold for Laphroaig The 1815 Legacy Edition

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig 10 Year Old

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Four Oak

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Lore

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Select

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Triple Wood

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.

The House of Suntory Whisky proudly introduces Yamazaki Mizunara 2017 edition, revealing the art of Mizunara

Nov, 2017) For over three generations, the master blenders at Suntory Whisky have devoted themselves to pursuing the harmony of Japanese nature and craftsmanship.  One of the most outstanding examples of this pursuit is found in Mizunara, a rare Japanese oak.

The wood from this rare and demanding tree inspired Suntory to take a momentous step forward in whisky making, both in perfecting new cask-making techniques and in creating flavours never before tasted in whisky. In a rare feat of craftsmanship, Suntory’s blenders have brought the essence of the noble Mizunara into a peerless liquid – tantalisingly spicy, reminiscent of incense, and uniquely Japanese.

Revealing their mastery of the Art of Mizunara, Suntory Whisky proudly introduces The Yamazaki Mizunara 2017 Edition, one of the House’s crowning jewels.

This Mizunara edition from The House of Suntory Whisky has been blended from a selection of single malt whiskies aged entirely in Mizunara casks for at least 18 years, and is certainly their most exquisite creation yet. Suntory’s Chief Blender, Shinji Fukuyo believes that each creation is a new journey to achieve a balance of subtlety, refinement and complexity that is the hallmark of all Suntory whiskies.

“I wanted to reveal the whisky’s soul that is the Art of Mizunara – a heightened sense and awakened palate, engaged through aromas and flavours never known before. Encountering it should be a moment of epiphany.”

Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender at Suntory Whisky

Found in only a few regions of Japan, the rare Mizunara oak is hard and permeable in nature, which made it a difficult wood to use to in cask making, as it is hard to shape and join with precision and does not retain liquid well. Through perseverance, Suntory’s craftsman have mastered this the art of Mizunara cask-making, identifying the perfect trees to make their casks.

Age is key to unlocking the signature taste of Mizunara and only a long maturation can provide the spiciness and incense-like flavour of sandalwood and aloe wood that Suntory considers as the quintessential “Mizunara-ness”.

Yamazaki Mizunara 2017 Edition represents Suntory’s true mastery of the Art of Mizunara – from harvesting, to cask making, to maturation, to blending. The House of Suntory invites whisky lovers to experience one of its most precious creations and encounter for the first time the defining expression of “Mizunara-ness”.

Presented in a beautiful wooden box crafted from recycled Suntory casks, the Yamazaki Mizunara 2017 Edition will be available to purchase from selected retailers from November at £1,000 RRP.

About Suntory

The House of Suntory Whisky is the founding house of Japanese whisky. A legacy of three master blenders and three generations of innovators, Suntory was created by the Founding Father of Japanese whisky, Shinjiro Torii. Suntory was established in 1899 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Since 1923, as the pioneer of Japanese whisky, Suntory Whisky has been renowned for its House of Master Blenders and for their Art of Blending. Suntory Whiskies are subtle, refined and complex. The portfolio features two single malt whiskies, one blend and one grain whisky including Yamazaki—Japan’s #1 Single Malt, multi-layered and profound, Hakushu—verdant, fresh, and delicately smoky, Hibiki— the noble blend, Japan’s most highly awarded blended whisky and the mild, smooth, single grain, Chita— the serenity of Japanese whisky.

The Whisky Barrel releases their latest exclusive 10^th Anniversary Whisky!  

Specialist online whisky shop, TheWhiskyBarrel.com, is proud to release Glenlivet 11 Year Old 2006 Signatory 10th Anniversary. 

This is the fifth addition to The Whisky Barrel’s range of exclusive bottlings commemorating the 10^th anniversary of the retailer established in 2007 and which is now renowned as one of the world’s leading whisky and spirits merchants.

The Glenlivet 11 Year Old 2006 has been specially selected by The Whisky Barrel from the warehouses at Signatory Vintage at Pitlochry in the Scottish Highlands. The Whisky Barrel hand selected this first-fill sherry hogshead cask due to its exceptional aromas and flavours.

Glenlivet Distillery produces single malt Scotch Whisky in Ballindalloch, Moray. It was founded in 1824 by George Smith and is the oldest legal distillery in the parish of Glenlivet. Following expansion in 2010 the distillery is now equipped with fourteen stills making it one of the largest malt whisky distilleries in Scotland.

Signatory Vintage was established by Andrew and Brian Symington in 1988 at Newhaven on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. Having taken over the business in 1997 and purchased Edradour Distillery in Pitlochry in 2002, Andrew Symington moved his bottling business into new premises next to the Highland distillery.

The Glenlivet 11 Year Old 2006 Signatory 10^th Anniversary has been aged for 11 years in a first-fill sherry hogshead cask #900552 yielding 316 bottles at natural cask strength. The whisky is richly sherried in colour and flavour.

Tasting notes: 

Colour: Beautifully dark. Shine a light on it and a lovely caramelised sugar on the cusp of catching come out. 

Nose: Rich sherry notes. Rum and raisin with soft Scottish toffee and dark chocolate. Leather boots and tobacco leaf add some real muscle but softened with strawberry and dried apricot. 

Taste: Lovely warming chewiness of the sherry. Crisp red berries giving way mil chocolate raisins, oak and a touch of apricot sherbet. The high ABV makes it a big hitter. Left to some air relaxes it and brings out a little more chocolate and toffee. 

Finish:  Long and lingering with a pleasant heat. Big spicy fruit cake with cinnamon and cloves with a touch of bitter chocolate. Dries to an oaky finish. 

Price: £79.99 GBP / $87.00 USD (+ P&P) 

Notice for Editors:-

1. Q) What is the product called? A)  The Glenlivet 11 Year Old 2006 Signatory 10^th
2. Q) When will this product be released/was it released? A) Monday 13 November 2017. Q) Where is it available? A) Scotland, off-trade, TheWhiskyBarrel.com. Q) Is this product already available in other markets? A) Scotland only, TheWhiskyBarrel.com ships worldwide. Q) How much is it? A) £79.99 GBP / $87.00 USD (+ P&P)
3. Q) Who handles the product’s distribution? A) In-house at TheWhiskyBarrel.com. Q) What is the ABV of this product? A) 63.5% ABV natural cask strength.
4. Q) Why has this product been launched? A) Limited Edition single cask bottled exclusively by The Creative Whisky Co. to celebrate 10 years of TheWhiskyBarrel.com. This is the third bottling in the 10^th Anniversary series of single cask spirits.

Note to Editors 

The Whisky Barrel is a specialist online whisky and spirits merchant was established in 2007 and celebrates it’s 10^th anniversary in 2017. The firm has been nominated for Whisky Magazine Awards and prestigious International Wine & Spirits Competition runner-up in 2016.

Previous Anniversary Releases:

#1 Irish Cooley, 13 year old, 2003 Exclusive Malts 10^th Anniversary

#2 Dumbarton 30 year old, 1987, The Sovereign

#3 Laphroaig 6 year old, 2011 Exclusive Malts 10^th Anniversary

N.B. prices correct at the time of publishing and are subject to currency fluctuation.

NEW RANGE OF TAILORED MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES FOR WHISKY CLUB WITH ADDED EXTRAS MAKE A DRAM FINE CHRISTMAS GIFT 

The gift of membership of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society can now be tailored with optional extras such as bottles, a taster pack of drams and tasting tickets to suit the whisky fan in your life 

If you’re looking for a Christmas present with a difference for the adventurous whisky fan, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (www.smws.com/) has launched a new range of membership packages (www.smws.com/whisky-club-membership), which can be tailored with optional extras.

The Society is the world’s leading whisky club with a community of more than 26,000 malt-loving members around the world. The club, which was started by a group of friends in Edinburgh in 1983, specialises in single cask whisky and takes a unique approach to whisky by celebrating the flavours in the bottle through 12 unique flavour profiles.

New range of membership packages

The core annual membership of the Society costs £65 and provides whisky lovers with an array of benefits including: exclusive access to Society whiskies and other spirits; entry to the Society’s Members’ Rooms in Edinburgh and London; members’ rates for SMWS tasting events; discounted dram prices at SMWS partner bars; free subscription to Unfiltered, its award-winning members’ magazine; and savings on postage and packaging.

In time for Christmas, the Society has introduced a range of new membership packages (www.smws.com/whisky-club-membership), which allow buyers to build on the core annual membership (£65) with tailored optional extras to suit the preferences of the whisky lover in their life.

The new membership packages are:

• Pioneer (£130): the most popular option – core annual membership PLUS a beautiful welcome pack containing three 10cl sample bottles, a £15 e-voucher, SMWS journal and club lapel badge
• Champion (£110): core annual membership PLUS a specially selected bottle of the moment
• Explorer (£90): core annual membership PLUS a Taster Pack containing five 25ml samples of Society whiskies from its 12 flavour profiles
• High Flyer (£80) core annual membership PLUS a three-dram tasting flight for one person at the Society’s Kaleidoscope bars in London or Edinburgh
• Sharer (£125): core annual membership PLUS two tasting vouchers (each worth £35) redeemable at any of the Society’s partner bars and events around the UK, and its Kaleidoscope bars in London and Edinburgh

The gift that keeps on giving 

The Society releases around 20 new whiskies each month. Christmas is the perfect time to become a member as the Society releases one of its biggest-ever selections of bottles, with around 100 new bottles being released during November and December. This includes bottles with festive flavours and names such as ‘Curl up by the fire’ and ‘Hot apple and cinnamon sponge’.

Each whisky released by the Society is drawn from a single cask, which may only produce as few as 100 bottles, making each bottle a limited edition. Rather than reveal the name of the distillery where the whisky is from, The Society describes its bottles through the lens of flavour.

It releases its bottles through 12 unique flavour profiles with names such as Spicy & Dry and Old & Dignified; each bottle comes with a fun and evocative name, such as ‘Killer bee rum punch’ and ‘Hansel and Gretel at the Savoy’, and colourful Tasting Notes (‘gentle, sweet with a hint of spice like sticky rhubarb and ginger crumble or gooey vanilla cherry pie’) which detail the flavours.

In addition to its award-winning single malts, the Society now bottles an expanded range of other spirits such as gin, rum, cognac and bourbon through its new Single Cask Spirits range (www.smws.com/spirits). In December, this includes an Armagnac called ‘Amareng Amaretti’ and a bourbon called ‘A powerful concoction’.

Try before you buy

There are Scotch Malt Whisky Society Kaleidoscope bars situated in both Edinburgh and London, where guests can experience the range of whiskies and other spirits as well as a selection of fantastic food.

Visiting the bars is a great way to experience the Society for the first time and will provide the opportunity to learn about its history and its whiskies from the knowledgeable staff.

Kai Ivalo, Spirits Director at the Society, said: “It’s been an incredibly exciting year for the Society, with some of the most amazingly diverse whiskies and other spirits we’ve ever released. From our core single malts and our grain whiskies to our new selection of gin, rum, cognac and bourbon in our Single Cask Spirits range, there’s never been a better time to join the Society.”

To buy a membership of The Scotch Malt Whisky Society as a gift this Christmas, visit www.smws.com/whisky-club-membership

www.smws.com/ @smwsuk #smws www.facebook.com/thesmwsuk

Notes to editors:

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 20 single cask, single malt whiskies every month
• The Society offers a range of membership packages – visit https://www.smws.com/whisky-club-membership
• For more information about the Society, visit www.smws.com

One of the world’s most expensive drams turns out to be fake!

Swiss hotel confirms £7,700 per-dram bottle of rare Macallan 1878 was distilled in the 1970s

One of the world’s only known bottles of Macallan 1878 still in circulation has been officially exposed as a fake following an investigation by Rare Whisky 101 working in partnership with Sandro Bernasconi, Waldhaus Am See Hotel Manager and Bar Manager at Devils Place.

The Waldhaus Hotel Am See in St Moritz hit the headlines earlier this summer after a Chinese customer paid 9,999 Swiss Francs (c£7,700) for a glass of the rare Scotch whisky, thought to be the most ever paid for a poured dram of liquid gold. Were the bottle genuine, it would have carried a bar-value of around 300,000 Swiss Francs (£230,000).

Following a series of investigative and forensic tests carried out by RW101, the whisky has been shown to date back no further than 1970, deeming it almost worthless as a collector’s item. Sandro Bernasconi from the Hotel has flown to Asia in the last week to refund the paying customer in full.

One of the world’s leading authorities on rare whisky, RW101 was called in by the hotel owner following publicity surrounding the sale of the dram. The eye-watering price paid for a drop of this seemingly rare vintage caused a stir among a number of experts within the whisky industry who have questioned its authenticity and asked for clarity on what exactly the bottle contains.

A sample of the Macallan 1878 was subsequently collected by the team at RW101, and flown back to the UK for a series of forensic tests and analysis to determine, as best as modern science allows, the precise composition of the liquid. Firstly, and most critically, the liquid was subjected to carbon dating at the University of Oxford to verify the year of distillation.

The conclusion from Rare Whisky 101’s investigation is that the whisky is a modern fake. Results from University of Oxford’s Research Laboratory for Archaeology and The History of Art suggested a 95% probability that the liquid was created between 1970 and 1972. Subsequent laboratory tests carried out by Tatlock and Thomson (providers of scientific services to the wine and spirits industry) showed the sprit was most likely a blended scotch comprised of 60% Malt and 40% Grain.

Ken Grier from The Macallan brand owner, Edrington, commented: “As the leading brand in the fast growing secondary market for rare whiskies, with an estimated 30% share by value, we take this very seriously. We praise the work that our partners, RW101, are doing to bring awareness of any fraud to light. We would urge consumers to buy from reputable sources at all times.”

RW101 co-founder David Robertson commented: “The Waldhaus team have done exactly the right thing by trying to authenticate this whisky. Over the past year, we have been invited by numerous bottle owners and auction houses to assess suspicious bottles. Indeed, we’ve noticed an increasing number of old, rare archive or antique bottles coming to market at auction, and it’s difficult to know how prevalent this problem is. We would implore that others in the market do what they can to identify any rogue bottles. The more intelligence we can provide, the greater the chance we have to defeat the fakers and fraudsters who seek to dupe the unsuspecting rare whisky consumer. We’re also working closely with The Macallan brand owner, Edrington, as they start to take a leadership position on fake whisky.

“As with any purchase, we would recommend that each buyer does their research, assesses the bottle and its packaging presentation, and where they can afford to do so, send some of the liquid for technical evaluation and/or carbon dating. If you do have a pre-1900’s bottle we suggest it’s worth extracting a sample to prove if it is genuine or not (most likely not). Even if the bottle has been opened, if you can prove the whisky was distilled pre 1900, then you have some very valuable whisky to enjoy!”

Sandro Bernasconi, Waldhaus Am See Hotel Manager and Bar Manager at Devils Place said: “When it comes to selling our customers some of the world’s rarest and oldest whiskies, we felt it was our duty to ensure that our stock is 100% authentic and the real deal. That’s why we called in RW101. The result has been a big shock to the system, and we are delighted to have repaid our customer in full as a gesture of goodwill.”

About Rare Whisky 101
Andy Simpson and David Robertson launched Rare Whisky 101 in 2014 with the aim of offering a whisky valuation service, brokerage and consultancy for whisky connoisseurs, collectors and investors. Having tracked every bottle sold at UK auctions over the past 12 years, the business now offers the world’s first, only and most comprehensive online single malt Scotch & Japanese whisky dataset covering some 260,000 price records over 31,500 different bottle types. In the last 12 months, RW101 have brokered around 20,000 rare whisky bottles around the globe in addition to trading in aged casks from iconic distilleries such as The Macallan, Ardbeg, Bowmore, Springbank, Mortlach, Talisker, Caol Ila, Lagavulin and Highland Park.

The final countdown to the opening of the world’s very first 100% community-owned and 100% green energy-powered distillery is on.

In three weeks, on St Andrew’s Day (November 30^th), GlenWyvis Distillery in Dingwall will be officially opened and whisky production will be ready to commence.

The newly appointed Master Distiller, Duncan Tait, is inspired by the unique possibilities this creates.

“To join a brand new distillery and shape the flavour profiles of a new single malt from the start is a dream come true,” he said.

Managing director and founder, John McKenzie, is extremely proud that the two year project is so close to bearing fruit.

GlenWyvis from the sky

“This is a community project and the support has been overwhelming. To raise over £3 million in such a short time, and with over 60% of our members coming from the Highland area, is testament to the enduring appeal of Scottish whisky,” he said.

“We’re using barley sourced from the local coop of farmers, Highland Grain and we’re using wind, water and solar power and a biomass boiler to provide the power. I’m immensely proud of the entire team here at GlenWyvis and we are all thrilled to be officially opening the distillery on St Andrew’s Day.”

Click here to see drone footage of the distillery!

Copper Monument – Release of 6 Single Cask Whiskies 

As a group of enthusiastic whisky lovers, we are excited to announce our first range of whiskies available at www.coppermonument.com.

We have carefully selected six casks to be bottled at full strength without any colouring or chill-filtration.

Springbank 1995 Single Cask 21 Year Old

Distilled in 1995, this 21 year old Springbank was exclusively matured in a sherry hogshead before being bottled in September 2017, at a cask strength of exactly 46%.

Heaven Hill 2009 Single Cask 8 Year Old

Perhaps our most exciting release, this single barrel Heaven Hill was bottled last month at an impressive 63.5% and carries a lot of power and flavour – a stunning whiskey.

Glen Moray 2007 Single Cask 10 Year Old

A very elegant 10 year old Speyside whisky distilled in 2007 and bottled 58.6%.

North British 1991 Single Cask 26 Year Old

Our oldest release is from the Edinburgh based distillery North British, this whisky is strongly influenced by the cask and is a great example of a well matured single grain. Distilled in 1991 and bottled in September 2017 at 49.7%

Ardmore 2010 Single Cask 7 Year Old

We bottled two single cask Ardmore’s, containing their lightly peated spirit these are a great comparison to the softer Islay styles. Distilled in 2010 and bottled at 61.4% and 61.2% respectively.

We are offering these whiskies exclusively online at www.coppermonument.com and are able to ship around the world. If your country is not shown as available, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we can arrange the shipment.

For more information, contact Copper Monument on –

coppermonument@gmail.com

GIVE A GIFT AS UNIQUE AS THEY ARE THIS CHRISTMAS

Treat your loved one to one of the finest, most unique single malt whiskies with Lore, Select and 27 Year Old from Laphroaig

The award-winning, heavily-peated Single Malt Scotch whisky has been dividing opinions since 1815. It is not your everyday whisky for everyday people so this Christmas, get into the spirit and give the gift of history with three unique bottlings from the world’s No.1 Islay single malt.

HISTORY AT HEART

Laphroaig Select’s unique character is derived from the special selection of casks chosen for maturation. The heart of the spirit is drawn from a final maturation in new American Oak casks, rarely used for Scotch whisky.

Representing a subtle blending of peat, oak and sweetness, Laphroaig Distillery Manager John Campbell has selected the spirit from Laphroaig Quarter Cask, PX Cask, Triple Wood (European Oak casks) and a final addition of 10 Year Old to create San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 silver medal award winning Laphroaig Select.

Sparkling gold in colour, on the nose Laphroaig Select is reminiscent of burning embers of peat in a crofter’s fireplace with hints of coconut and banana. Full bodied, the whisky offers deep, complex and smoky flavours on the palate with a surprising gentle sweetness and a dry, spicy, finish, making it a great foil to smoked salmon, rich mince pies beside the fire or strong blue cheese this festive season.

For something extra special, give your loved one a limited edition Laphroaig Select gift pack including two bespoke Laphroaig nosing glasses alongside a full-sized bottle.

Laphroaig Select and the Laphroaig Select gift set are available in selected whisky specialists and retailers. RRP £35

THE RICHEST OF THE RICH

A double-gold medal award winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017, Laphroaig Lore is shaped by Laphroaig Distillery Manager John Campbell, and drawn from 5 different casks including first-fill Bourbon barrels, new American Oak quarter casks, refill Laphroaig and Oloroso Sherry butts to create a rich Laphroaig like no other.

As the name suggests, this offering from Laphroaig is inspired by the knowledge and traditions passed down from generation to generation of its distillery managers, blenders and craftsmen.

Deep mahogany in colour, on the nose Laphroaig Lore is rich and smoky with seaside minerals, a hint of ash and bitter chocolate drops. Vanilla follows with chestnuts and a hit of fudge with malty sweetness – flavours reminiscent of Christmas treats. This develops into reach peat and a spicy chilli bite on the palate with a long, sweet aftertaste. A special gift from our family to yours, Laphroaig Lore will match well with a variety of foods over the festive season – it’s the perfect dram to sip alongside (or even pour over) your Christmas pudding, dark chocolate, or game meats.

Laphroaig Lore is available in selected whisky specialists and retailers. RRP £84

OLDER AND WISER

In 2015, to celebrate its 200th anniversary, Laphroaig launched a 32 Year Old exclusive – the highest aged whisky it had released in over 8 years. This formed the start of a super premium series which the limited release 27 Year Old Double Matured Laphroaig continues.

To make this exquisite liquid, mature Laphroaig previously aged in hogsheads was transferred into first-fill ex-bourbon barrels and refill quarter casks. Patiently aged in the famous Warehouse No. 1, these casks were then specially selected for a final maturation and bottled at cask strength.

Burnished gold in colour, on the nose Laphroaig 27 Year Old offers ripe tropical fruit, toasted nuts, vanilla cream and fresh leather, which develops into smoke on the palate tempered by limes and stone fruit, giving way to sea salt and mild spice on the finish. Or in Distillery Manager John Campbell’s opinion it is like “dreams of stewed fruit and old potato sacks in the baking sun woken with carbolic soap. Ahh, lemony fresh!” Presented in a white wooden box with hand-carved images of the Laphroaig distillery inside, this exceptional bottling is perfect for that special someone and is the ideal dram to round-off your Christmas feast.

Laphroaig 27 Year Old is available in selected whisky specialists and retailers. RRP £425

John Campbell, Distillery Manager comments: “Christmas is about sharing what you love with who you love. These three bottlings showcase our passion for making exceptional whiskies and offer Laphroaig lovers something extra special this festive season.”

To find out more information about Laphroaig or how to become a Friend of Laphroaig, please visit www.laphroaig.com. Please enjoy our brand responsibly www.drinkaware.co.uk

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Notes

Awards:

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig 10 Year Old

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Triple Wood

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Select

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Quarter Cask

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Lore

ISC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig PX

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Double gold for Laphraoig Lore

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Gold for Laphraoig 10 Year Old

San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 | Silver for Select

IWSC 2017 | Gold for Laphroaig Quarter Cask

IWSC 2017 | Gold for Laphroaig The 1815 Legacy Edition

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig 10 Year Old

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Four Oak

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Lore

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Select

IWSC 2017 | Silver for Laphroaig Triple Wood

ABOUT LAPHROAIG®

Laphroaig® is one of only a few distilleries that still uses traditional malting floors and dries and infuses its own malt with the thick blue smoke from old peat-fired kilns. People experience whisky in very different ways. It’s what makes us human and what makes Laphroaig® so special. The award-winning heavily peated Single Malt Scotch whisky has been dividing opinions since 1815. With its pungent, earthy aroma of peat smoke, the sweet nuttiness of the barley and the heathery perfume of the Kilbride stream, Laphroaig® is an unapologetically bold and rich and Single Malt. It’s this complex and sometimes polarising range of flavours that has garnered a loyal and passionate following of whisky enthusiasts and continues to divide opinions around the world.

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.

Sleigh bells are ringing and you’re busy worrying over what to get your colleagues, friends, family (and the man next door that lends you his snow shovel) for Christmas.

Yes, it is indeed that time of year again. Worry not, friends, we have it covered! Take a breath and have a read of this whilst savouring a mince pie and a tipple…or two.

We know that picking the perfect scotch whiskey gift can be tricky at the best of times. For a gift to be opened in front of friends and family, best get this one right.

Here at TheWhiskyBarrel.com we have the perfect selection of single malt scotch and Irish whiskey gifts.  And to make things even easier for you we have a great selection of new gift wrapping especially for those special Christmas gifts.

Go on then, best get at it, there’s no time like the present (pun intended!).

In a hurry? Jump to our list of Top 10 Whiskies, Gins and Rums for Christmas, visit our Christmas 2017 page here.

Shipping Dates

Now, at the time of writing, you still have plenty of time to order. However, we know some of you like the thrill of a last-minute Christmas buy. Keep a note of our last shipping dates for Christmas to make sure your whiskey gift is delivered on time, especially if you’re sending overseas.

Final Dates for Christmas Shipping 2017

Christmas Whiskey Gift Wrapping

As well as our usual selection of high quality wrapping paper, we now have two extra special Christmas wrapping papers available to add a bit of sparkle this season. Simply choose the gift wrapping you want and add a message in the basket. Christmas whiskey gifts all wrapped up at TheWhiskyBarrel.com.

Speyside Whiskey Gifts

Under £50 –Aberfeldy 2003 Connoisseur’s Choice 43% –  2017 bottling matured in first fill sherry hogshead by Gordon & MacPhail

Something Special – Glenrothes 1976 UK Single Cask #2677 – 39 year old very special limited release from The Glenrothes Distillery

TWB Favourite – Craigellachie 21 year old 1995 Old Malt Cask – nice fruity sherry bomb from Hunter Laing & Co

Highland Whiskey Gifts

Under £50: Edradour 10 year old  – lovely, easy drinker from Edradour Distillery.

Something Special: Clynelish, 20 year old, 1996, Old and Rare – fabulous whiskey and a single cask from Hunter Laing & Co.

TWB Favourite: Glen Garioch 24 year old 1992 Berry’s Own Cask #3059 –  one of our top underrated distilleries. A great dram.

Islay Whiskey Gifts

Under £50: Caol Ila Creative Whisky Single Cask Exclusives 50% – No age or vintage but a fine young Caol Ila

Something Special: Laphroaig 27 year old, 2017 Release – limited release with 1988 and 1989 vintage whiskey.

TWB Favourite: Bunnahabhain 29 year old 1987 ‘ The Viceroy’s Elixir’ Wemyss – not just our favourite. Popular big sherry Islay Bunna!

Campbeltown Whiskey Gifts

Under £50: Glengyle, Kilkerran 12 year old – superb whiskey from the Springbank group and great value. Firm favourite.

Something Special: Springbank 21 year old 1995 Magnum Old & Rare – yup 1.5 litres of Springbank. Yup.

TWB Favourite: Springbank 15 year old – We think this is simply one of the best whiskies on the market and at a superb price.

Island Whiskey Gifts

Under £50: Abhainn Dearg Spirit of Lewis 46% – not technically whiskey as under 3 years. But a taste of one of Scotland’s most exciting rugged distilleries.

Something Special: Arran 21st Anniversary Limited Edition, 52.6% – 21 years of this distillery celebrated in this limited release.

TWB Favourite: Talisker 7 year old, 2009 Old Malt Cask – our firm favourite young whiskey. Awesome.

Lowland Whiskey Gifts

Under £50: Tullibardine 225 Sauternes – Double matured in Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes casks. They call themselves Highland but we’re putting this lowland!

Something Special: Littlemill 27 year old 1988 Magnum Old & Rare. Again, yup! 1.5 litres of Lost Distillery Littlemill.

TWB Favourite: Bladnoch 1993 Connoisseur’s Choice (2016) – another recenlty re-opened distillery. This bottle offers old stock.

Irish and American Whiskey Gifts

Under £50:  – Elijah Craig Small Batch – recent replacement for the 12 year old. Fine American Bourbon Whiskey

Something Special: Buffalo Trace E.H. Taylor Single Barrel  – this one’s colleague just won The Whisky Bible World Whisky of the Year. Pedigree.

TWB Favourite: Irish Cooley 13 year old 2003 TWB 10th Anniversary Exclusive – one of our celebration whiskies. Something different and very good!

PREMIUM SCOTCH WHISKY GLEN GRANT LAUNCHES IN CANADA

CAMPARI CANADA RELEASES GLEN GRANT 12-YEAR-OLD AND 18-YEAR-OLD FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ONTARIO, BRITISH COLUMBIA, ALBERTA AND MANITOBA

TORONTO, ON (October 31, 2017) – Campari Canada is launching Glen Grant, an internationally-renowned player within the premium Scotch whisky category. The 12-Year-Old and 18-Year-Old are currently available in Alberta and will be rolling out in liquor stores in Ontario, British Columbia and Manitoba in November. The 12-Year-Old features a clear bronze label, while the 18-Year-Old features a rich blue label and bottle neck and is enclosed in a frosted blue gift box with silver hues.

Established in the 1840s, brothers John and James Grant used their entrepreneurial spirit, skill and dedication in Speyside, Scotland, to produce what would become one of the world’s most famous single malt Scotch whiskies at the Glen Grant Distillery. While Gruppo Campari acquired the brand in 2006, in 2017, Campari Canada identified an opportunity to further its category growth by expanding the company’s premium spirits portfolio with the addition of Glen Grant.

“We are thrilled to introduce such a highly-regarded Scotch whisky into the Canadian market,” said Alyssa De Bartolo, Brand Manager, Premium Spirits, Campari Canada. “In launching Glen Grant, we hope to appeal to the tastes and demands of consumers for premium spirits with this flavourful single malt whisky.”

Recently, the Glen Grant 18-Year-Old received accolades in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2018, earning awards in the categories of ‘Scotch Whisky of the Year’, and ‘Single Malt of the Year’ for the second year in a row. The Glen Grant 12-Year-Old has won Double Gold at the San Francisco Wine and Spirits Competition in 2017 for ‘Best 12-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch’ and a Gold in the 2016 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC); allowing it to rightfully be considered an accredited Single Malt.

Glen Grant’s whiskies are known for their bright, clear golden colour and seductively smooth, fruity, rich taste. Barley, yeast and water are the only ingredients required in its production. Best-in-class Bourbon and Sherry oak casks are meticulously chosen for a slow aging process which gives Glen Grant its unique colour and rich fruity, nutty flavour.

Notes:

*Product availability and pricing may vary depending on region.

• Glen Grant 12-Year-Old – 43% ABV; Ontario, $69.95; British Columbia, $67.99; Alberta, $59.99; Manitoba, $68.99.

• Glen Grant 18-Year-Old – 43% ABV; pricing from $189.95, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario.

Tasting Notes:

• 12-Year-Old: With a bright, golden colour and pleasant aromas of orchard fruit, almond and citrus, this exceptional whisky delights the palate with exquisite and delicate notes of apple pie crust and caramel, finishing with lingering fruit and subtle hints of spice.

• 18-Year-Old: Offers a radiant golden colour and seductive floral and oaky aroma. Deeply layered and complex, this rich and vibrant whisky delivers beautifully intricate flavours of malted caramel, vanilla, and raisins. It lingers with a long, sweet, and pleasantly spicy finish.

About Gruppo Campari:

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