Appreciation is Art @ Whisky Live Singapore 2017

Savour rare spirits, share passion and pair pleasures with vibrant festivities, whiskies and spirits appreciation and an unprecedented art showcase at Singapore Tyler Print Institute

Singapore, August 2017 – A yearly sold-out event, Whisky Live Singapore 2017 (the “Show”) is South East Asia’s largest and premier whisk(e)y and spirits show. Into its eighth instalment this year, the Show promises a different and more immersive and expansive experience than before.

This year, Whisky Live Singapore will be held at the grounds of Theatreworks, a pre-war a heritage building that was once a rice warehouse on Mohamed Sultan Road and next to the Singapore River that is gazetted for national conservation. Little known is that the area that is now lined with bars and restaurant was previously a necessary trading and warehouse hub where goods that were taken from ships were to be stored for redistribution.

“Whisky Live Singapore has been hugely successful among whisky aficionados in the region. We are constantly looking into ways to alleviate the experience,” comments Mr. Mathieu Musnier, General Manager at La Maison du Whisky. “Whisk(e)y and spirits appreciation is an art. With the theme of ‘Rare, Share, Pair’, we want to bring forth a different and immersive experience for our guests by offering not only the taste of fine spirits but a coup d’oeil of the artistic creativity that goes into the making, marketing and bottle craft of various ingenious brands.”

With appreciation in mind, this year, Whisky Live Singapore will have an art gallery at STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery that showcases whisk(e)y and spirit art through the years, from label design, marketing art to bottle craft. The exhibition will feature interesting exhibits from well-known creatives of the industry such as Stranger & Stranger, Neisson and Velier.

To raise the bar, a cocktail and food trail will be dedicated for a celebration of cocktails and food to add to the festivity. Expect cocktail booths by spirit types – gin, tequila, rum and many more, and food by different cuisines. There are also samplings of more than 50 brands and 150 expressions of whiskies and spirits which never fail to impress guests.

La Maison du Whisky, established in Singapore since 2006, is the organiser of Whisky Live in Singapore and Paris, which is also the biggest Whisky and Spirit show in Europe.               

WHISKY LIVE 2017 SINGAPORE

Date:      25^th and 26^th November 2017 (Saturday and Sunday) @ 1.30pm – 8.30pm*

*Trail closes at 9.30pm

Venue:   7213 Mohamed Sultan Road Singapore 239007

Different from previous years, there are tranches of early bird specials and group purchase to allow fans of Whisky Live Singapore to enjoy greater discounts:

2017 Ticket Categories Super Early Bird Price (until 19 Sept) SGD 79

Early Bird Price (18 Sept – 18 Oct) SGD 89

Regular Price   SGD 99  (after 18 Oct)

One-Day Discovery Pass

Access on 25^th (Sat) or 26^th Nov (Sun)

Unlimited access to Tasting Hall stands

1 free cocktail at Cocktail Street

1 free coupon for food

10% discount at the Whisky Live Singapore pop-up store

One-Day VIP Pass

Package includes:

 Unlimited access to Tasting Hall stands
 2 free cocktails at Cocktail Street
 1 free coupons for food
 Entry 1 hour before official opening to explore the tasting area
 Exclusive access to the VIP area for tastings of whiskies and rare spirits.
 10% discount at the Whisky Live Singapore pop-up store

* Limited to 110 passes.
SGD 159 SGD 169 SGD 189

 One-Day Discovery Group Pass (for 10 pax)
Each will receive:
 Access on 25th (Sat) or 26th Nov (Sun)
 Unlimited access to Tasting Hall stands
 1 free cocktail at Cocktail Street
 1 free coupon for food
 10% discount at the Whisky Live Singapore pop-up store SGD 700 SGD 800 SGD 900
Add-Ons: Attendance to Masterclasses SGD 25

Tickets are available for purchase via:

1. Peatix (http://peatix.com/event/287326)
2. Whisky Live (http://www.whiskylive.sg)
3. Maison du Whisky
 Address: 80 Mohamed Sultan Rd., Singapore 239013

For more further updates, please feel free:
1. Visit the Whisky Live 2017 website (http://www.whiskylive.sg)
2. Join Whisky Live Singapore Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/WhiskyLiveSingapore/)
3. Call Maison du Whisky +65-6733 0059

An Ecological Vintage

Today we aren’t going to tell you about Fair Trade, organic distilled spirits—as the title might suggest—but rather about households that are born from some of the glorious remains left behind by the manufacturing of whisky, or by its savoring. Houses, those walls between which the story of your life unfolds, can be said to be acquired in two different ways. The first is the familiar scenario in which a preexisting house is bought when its features are deemed worthy. The other involves starting from scratch and being the one who decides just what said features are going to be.

How, then, could a well-deserved glass of whisky, poured straight from the cask, help build your next home? By making sure that the cask is put to good use once it has been emptied of its precious content, of course. The incriminating looks of a partner inquiring into the causes of this unusual emptying rate could easily be countered with the promise of a brand new ecological home.

“Incidentally, this Bourbon did not end up in my bathroom, but AS my bathroom!”

It is with such depleted wooden containers that Roger Douda began in the Scottish village of Findhorn. A few casks later a new “barrel house” appeared and, step by step, an entire community, unique and sustainable, followed! The result was the first eco-village in Europe, sporting houses insulated thanks to repurposed materials, and exploiting communal permacultures to make every aspect of life an environmentally friendly matter. It was even awarded the UN-Habitat price for its commitment.

Find the French version here : https://www.fournisseur-energie.com/du-whisky-et-du-tri/

Introducing Glen Scotia 18 Year Old Single Malt from Victorian whisky capital of the world

Campbeltown whisky distillery, Glen Scotia has unveiled the latest expression in its award-winning collection – Glen Scotia 18 Year Old Single Malt.

In the Victorian age, Campbeltown was known as the ‘whisky capital of the world’ and was once home to more than 30 distilleries operating along the Kintyre peninsula during the 19^th century.

With Campbeltown now recognised as one of the five distinct malt producing regions, Glen Scotia is one of just three left, has a history dating back to 1832 and a heritage steeped in Victorian values, allowing it to produce time-honoured, authentic single malt whiskies in the same Campbeltown style.

An exceptional single malt whisky matured in the finest oak casks for a minimum of 17 years which are then specially selected as they epitomise the distillery’s character, before being married together and finished in Oloroso sherry casks for 12 months before bottling. Glen Scotia 18 Year Old embodies the signature aromas of Campbeltown, with hints of vanilla oak interwoven with subtle notes of sea spray and spicy aromatic fruits.

Master Blender for Glen Scotia, Michael Henry, said; “Glen Scotia distillery is one of only three surviving Campbeltown Scotch whisky distilleries and much of the original design has remained the same over that time, with the stillroom, dunnage warehouse and fermenters all dating back to the 19^th century.”

“Glen Scotia 18 Year Old is bottled at 46% ABV, natural colour and is non-chill filtered ensuring the whisky’s rich smooth taste and distinctive flavours are preserved. On nose you will detect the scent of sweet toffee, perfumed floral notes and an air of crisp saltiness. On the palate, it imparts notes of rich deep vanilla fruit flavours, with mild hints of apricot, pineapple and plump sultana. The finish is long and dry, with gentle warming spice. A true taste of Glen Scotia and Campbeltown.”

Glen Scotia 18 Year Old is priced at £85 for 70cl. In the UK it is available to buy at all good independent whisky specialists, online and on the Glen Scotia website. It will also be available in global markets, including Taiwan, Germany, Belgium and Poland.

Owned by Loch Lomond Group, Glen Scotia was recently named the Best Campbeltown Distillery of the Year at the Berlin International Spirits Competition 2017.

For further information, visit http://www.glenscotia.com/

Glen Scotia 18 Year Old Tasting Notes

• Nose – Crisp saltiness, perfumed floral notes and thick sweet toffee
• Palate – Rich deep vanilla fruit flavours, apricot and pineapple, plump sultana
• Finish – Long and dry with gentle warm spice  

About Glen Scotia:

• Independent distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832.
• Glen Scotia is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown.
• Glen Scotia was named Best Campbeltown Distillery of the Year at the 2017 Berlin International Spirits Competition.
• Images and interviews with key staff from Glen Scotia are available upon request.

Other Glen Scotia variants

• Glen Scotia Double Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Glen Scotia Victoriana Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Glen Scotia 15 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Glen Scotia 25 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

http://www.glenscotia.com/

Twitter: @GlenScotiaMalts

 Eleven Buffalo Trace whiskies honored at2017 INTERNATIONAL WINE & SPIRITS COMPETITION

Twelve Buffalo Trace Distillery spirits were awarded medals at the 2017 International Wine & Spirits Competition. Eight of the 12 Buffalo Trace Distillery spirits recognized received “Silver Outstanding” medals which are awarded based upon the highest scores within each category.

Buffalo Trace Distillery spirits awarded “Silver Outstanding” include:

 Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

 Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey

Those awarded Silver include:

 Eagle Rare 17 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

 Benchmark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Awarded Bronze:

 Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream

“We are delighted by our placements at the IWSC,” said Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “The judging for this competition is very rigorous, but so are we when it comes to creating quality spirits so we feel very proud of these results.”

The International Wine and Spirit Competition was founded in 1969 and is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs.

All entries are first blind tasted in groups divided by variety, region and vintage as necessary, by professional expert judges (by glass, not bottle) and then the top products are sent for detailed chemical and microbiological analysis. This analysis is crucial as in some instances the results of this analysis may lead to marks being deducted or even outright rejection.

Learn more at www.iwsc.net.

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 17 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named “Brand Innovator of the Year” by Whisky Magazine at its Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015. Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 300 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Isle of Raasay Distillery Opening in September 2017

In September 2017, whisky makers R&B Distillers will officially open the Isle of Raasay Distillery, the first (legal!) whisky distillery on this small Hebridean island. R&B Distillers are bringing this traditional Scottish craft to an unchartered whisky region, harnessing the raw elements of the unique terroir to create the first Raasay Scotch, which will be ready to drink from 2020.

Co-founders Alasdair Day and Bill Dobbie are realising a dream to make whisky in this uncommon location. Alasdair Day describes the uniqueness project: “It is the location; an island off an island with complex geology, water and island climate with probably the best views form any distillery in Scotland, that makes Raasay ideal for our innovative Scotch whisky distillery.”

Raasay is a small island, only fourteen miles in length, situated off the East coast of Skye. The island’s 120 residents have watched eagerly as this disused Gothic villa hotel, Borodale House, has been transformed into the new distillery, adjacent visitors’ centre and Na Tùsairean Club members’ accommodation which will be opening later.

In February 2016, R&B Distillers received permission from the Highland Council to bring the first distillery to Raasay. The young brand subsequently secured grants from the Food Processing Marketing and Co-Operation Grants Scheme, as well as the Highlands and Islands Enterprise, for the development of a visitor’s centre which is projected to bring in 12,000 visitors to Raasay in the first year.

Chris Taylor, VisitScotland Regional Partnership Director, comments: “The opening of the new Isle of Raasay Distillery is an exciting addition to the tourism offering in the Highlands, particularly with the development of a visitor centre and the promise of such fabulous views from the distillery itself.

Whisky is so embedded in the traditions of this country so is seems very fitting that the new distillery is opening during Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. It is also great to hear that a disused Victorian villa has been brought back into use in such an innovative way.”

Designed by Olli Blair from ABIR Architects and Allen Associates, the distillery incorporates the Victorian Borodale house and the modernity of a brand new distillery. However, the main feature of the design brief was to showcase and compliment the stunning views from the distillery site. This has been taken into careful consideration throughout.

The distillery on Raasay will be furnished with two copper pot stills sourced from Frilli in Tuscany and R&B predict that it will be able to produce 150,000 bottles of Scotch whisky a year. Single malt, Raasay While We Wait is an aptly named taste of the style of whisky that will be produced on Raasay. It is lightly peated to reflect the volcanic mineral content in the water supply, and balanced by fruity notes from Tuscan red wine finishing casks. The team also has the long-term ambition of using all-local ingredients – water, peat and barley– to create a spirit that is a true reflection of this uncommon terroir. In June 2017, R&B Distillery commenced Barley growing trails on the island to assess the possibility of growing and ripening barley suitable for whisky making locally with farmers and crofters.

The distillery will be independently owned and operated and is expected to generate employment for up to 10% of the island residents. In July 2017 R&B announced the distillery team who will be integral to whisky production: the team is comprised of an island resident, a young distilling graduate and a master distiller with decades of whisky prowess.

R&B Distillers are proud to be utilising some of the raw talent found on Raasay: they have employed Raasay local, Norman Gillies, as Distillery Manager. Norman was born and raised on Raasay and has been involved in the distillery project from the early days, working as Site Engineer and then Ground Foreman on the construction process. With a strong engineering background coupled with experience on the build from the outset, Norman understands the workings of the distillery.

Iain Robertson has been appointed as the Distiller and has relocated to the island to join the team. Iain is a recent Honours graduate of the Heriot Watt Brewing and Distilling school. During his studies, he took a placement at North British grain distillery and worked at Edinburgh’s The Scotch Whisky Experience as one of their highly knowledgeable tour guides. Iain is not only formally educated in the art and science of distilling but is innovative and enthusiastic about respectfully pushing the boundaries of the spirit.

Master Distiller Chris Anderson will be joining Iain and Norman for the inaugural 5 months to oversee

the initial distillation. He has experience at Dewars and United Distillery, and has helped with production at Ardnamurchan and Kilchoman distilleries – he will lend this expertise to the Raasay Distillery. Most recently he has been involved with the Lakes Distillery in Cumbria and the construction of neighbouring Torabhaig Distillery on the Isle of Skye. Chris will be invaluable to R&B Distillers as they establish one of Scotland’s newest whisky distilleries.

R&B stands for Raasay and Borders, two unique landscapes brought together through one unique whisky company. Co-founder Alasdair Day embodies this coupling. His great grandfather, Allan MacDonald, hailed from the Hebrides while his other great grandfather, Richard Day was a Masterblender in the Borders in the early 19th Century. It is this history that has prompted R&B’s ongoing project to build distilleries at these twin roots. The former, on Raasay, will soon be a reality.

NOTES:

Isle of Raasay Distillery will produce Island Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

• Capacity: 94,000 LPA

• Fermentation Time: 90 hours

• Spirit Still: 3,600 L

• Wash Still: 5,000 L

• Washback Size: 5,000 L

• Maturation: All maturation on site

Produced using local water supply at every stage of distillation and reduction

Isle of Raasay Distillery

Borodale House, Isle of Raasay, Kyle IV40 8PB

www.raasaydistillery.com

Facebook: RaasayDistillery Twitter: @raasaywhisky Instagram: @raasaydistillery

BOILER ROOM X BALLANTINE’S TRUE MUSIC HEADS TO POLAND FOR THE FORUM AND FINALE OF ITS THREE-CONTINENT TOUR

HEADLINED BY SETH TROXLER, THE BOILER ROOM X BALLANTINE’S TRUE MUSIC FINALE IN WARSAW ON SEPTEMBER 20 & 21 WILL FEATURE: THE TRUE MUSIC FORUM // ONE INCREDIBLE LIVE-SHOW: SIX STELLAR GLOBAL & LOCAL DJs // THE TRUE MUSIC EP RELEASE // ALL LIVE ON http://truemusic.boilerroom.tv/seth-troxler/

August 2017: Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music is touching down in Poland for the culmination of a tour that has so far travelled to Brazil and Russia, delivering a world-class music line-up to millions of fans.

True Music Poland will mark the 18th Boiler Room x Ballantine’s collaboration, a global partnership that supports and celebrates uncompromising artists committed to doing it ‘their way’. It sees headline True Music artist and one of dance music’s most loved characters, producer and DJ Seth Troxler, return to close out the latest series in Warsaw, in what promises to be the biggest line-up yet, across two unique events.

The embodiment of the True Music ethos, Seth has a long history of supporting emerging and underground artists, using his standing to help them succeed.

Seth’s True Music project finale will feature the second True Music Forum, the coming together of some of the music industry’s leading figures to discuss the evolution of music, culture and nightlife in 2017. It culminates with a 1,000 capacity True Music show featuring some of the biggest global and local DJs handpicked by Seth himself, including Brodka, Catz’n’Dogz and Craig Richards, all broadcast live on the True Music site.

Seth Troxler commented: “It’s been a pretty mad six months getting under the skin of such cool cities and working with great friends – new and old – in the countries we’ve visited. What better way to round it off than with the True Music Forum and massive True Music party in Poland.”

2 BOILER ROOM X BALLANTINE’S TRUE MUSIC POLAND SHOW

The No. 2 whisky in the world, Ballantine’s is committed to championing independent artists who have conviction in their music and the final event in Warsaw on Thursday September 21st is the ultimate celebration of this. Hand-selected by Seth Troxler, the line-up features some of the most sought-after global and local artists and spans a variety of electronic genres, including enigmatic Polish alt-pop sensation Brodka, homegrown DJ/ producers Catz ‘n Dogz and Fabric resident Craig Richards. They’ll be joined by acclaimed local producer Bartosz Kruczynski and DJ B. Traits.

The event will be live-streamed on truemusic.boilerroom.tv for fans around the globe to experience the sounds of True Music live and direct wherever they are.

THE BOILER ROOM X BALLANTINE’S TRUE MUSIC FORUM

The Boiler Room x Ballantine’s True Music Forum aims to inspire and engage the next generation of True Music artists through live-streamed panels featuring an impressive line-up of artists and industry innovators from record labels, broadcasters and more.

True Music headline artist Seth Troxler will participate in an insightful, intimate Q&A session with DJ B. Traits during which he will discuss his career, outlook on music, politics and the state of the industry as a whole.

The True Music Forum will also see the likes of artist Kojey Radical, Gosia Plysa (Unsound), Nadine Raihani (Native Instruments), composer SøS Gunver Ryberg and Luz Diaz (Room for Resistance) take to the stage alongside other music industry leaders for four panels exploring:

 Role of Artists in 2017

 A Lens on Poland’s Scene

 The Future of Sound

 The New Media Landscape All the Forum panels will be live streamed at http://truemusic.boilerroom.tv/.

BALLANTINE’S & BOILER ROOM’S TRUE MUSIC EP

While traversing the globe on his three-continent True Music Tour, headline artist Seth Troxler has selected some of his favourite local producers who he feels share his True Music ethos and passion for making exciting music, to work with him on original collaborations. The culmination of these collaborations will be the True Music EP II, comprising remixes from Seth’s back catalogue and original tracks, available as a download in September to coincide with the finale in Warsaw.

True Music EP track listing:

 Seth Troxler – Junkyard Tool (Renato Ratier Remix)

 Julia Govor – Forgotten Cloud (Seth Troxler Remix)

 X

To celebrate the True Music EP release, all three songs will be available to download for free download via truemusic.boilerroom.tv.

To check out more on True Music head to truemusic.boilerroom.tv

Notes

About Ballantine’s

Ballantine’s is the No.1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the No. 2 Scotch whisky in the world with the range selling over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 130 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for its outstanding quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, continuing the brand’s tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827. In 2013, Ballantine’s continued its innovative approach by launching Ballantine’s Brasil, a spirit drink made from selectively cask steeping Scotch whisky with Brazilian lime peel.

About Ballantine’s & Boiler Room

Since first partnering in 2013 Ballantine’s and Boiler Room have explored and celebrated the stories of 14 local music scenes from across three different continents. In the process, 35 million music fans have experienced the live-streamed events, documentaries and music content featuring the likes of DJ Premier, Carl Craig, Nina Kraviz, Underground Resistance, Skream and Seth Troxler. Now heading in to the fourth year, this new phase has been born; True Music. A platform that will be adopted by markets all around the world in local campaigns, and in 2017 will inform a global brand campaign.

www.ballantines.com @Ballantines

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 and Malibu, Mumm and Perrier- Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of 18,500 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.

JOHNNIE WALKER INTRODUCES LATEST LIMITED EDITION BLENDERS’ BATCH WHISKIES 

World’s leading Scotch Whisky brand shakes it up with the launch of three experimental whiskies at Diageo World Class event

Johnnie Walker is launching three new experimental whiskies from its Blenders’ Batch range for both whisky aficionados and cocktail lovers. The limited edition whiskies are being introduced at the Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year Final in Mexico City.

All three new blends – Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Wine Cask Blend, Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Rum Cask Finish and Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Espresso Roast – were designed to form the foundation of exceptional Scotch cocktails and yet, like all the brand’s classic whiskies, they can also be enjoyed straight up over ice.

Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch whiskies are the result of bold experiments that push the boundaries in flavour. Like Johnnie Walker Black Label – which was first borne out of flavour experiments more than a century ago and has since gone on to become a true icon of Scotch – these new whiskies are crafted by a small team of 12 passionate and skilled blenders, under the expert guidance of two-time Master Blender of the Year Jim Beveridge^[1].

Johnnie Walker blender Aimée Gibson led the development of Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Wine Cask Blend. She believes the parallels between crafting great whisky and creating extraordinary cocktails make the World Class Final in Mexico City the perfect environment for the introduction of these new whiskies.

“An unforgettable drinks experience is always the end goal. It is what elite mixologists strive to achieve when perfecting cocktails and it is what we, as whisky makers, have at the forefront of our thinking when experimenting and creating exciting new blends,” said Aimée, who was recently presented with the Rising Star Award at the International Spirits Challenge 2017.

Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Wine Cask Blend is the outcome of an experiment in maturation in wine casks set in motion by Aimée’s mentor Beveridge, over a decade ago. It is an exceptionally fruity Scotch that is full of lively fresh berry, sweet toffee flavours and delicate fragrant aromas.

Aimée said: “My goal at Johnnie Walker is to make whiskies that can be enjoyed by people with a range of taste preferences, especially by those who might previously have thought that whisky isn’t for them. As blenders, we draw upon almost 200 years of whisky-making experience and take inspiration from flavour pioneers from around the world.

“Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Wine Cask Blend is light and fruity. It’s perfect for enjoying in an after-work cocktail with friends or for savouring on its own during quieter moments.”

Master Blender Jim Beveridge said: “At Johnnie Walker, we know how to make exceptional Scotch. That was true when we first created Johnnie Walker Black Label over a hundred years ago and it is still true today. Our philosophy and our commitment to creating exceptional Scotch Whiskies is central to everything we do.

“Our blenders are given free rein to take inspiration from anything and everything around them when making whisky: experiences they’ve had, personal passions, sounds, and flavours. Their passion drives them to challenge the whisky-making status quo and to tap into other flavour cultures to create the best possible flavour combinations for all of our blends, every day.”

Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Wine Cask Blend is launching in selected countries from September 2017 with an RRP from US$29.99.

Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Rum Cask Finish and Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Espresso Roast will be available globally at some of the world’s best bars from October 2017.

For more information please visit www.johnniewalker.com

INTRODUCING PORT ASKAIG ISLAY SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY!

Independent, small-batch Scotch from the Isle of Islay lands on US shores!

Award-winning Scotch whisky brand Port Askaig brings an elegant and approachable single malt to peaty whisky lovers of the United States from the shores of the small Scottish island of Islay, known around the globe for its production of exceptional smoky Scotch whiskies.

Port Askaig 110° Proof is the first of this unique range of single malt whiskies to launch in the US but there will be more releases, including US exclusives, to come in the next few years. Created from carefully selected casks from distilleries across Islay, all whiskies from Port Askaig are truly ‘small-batch’ with as few as two, and no more than 40, casks used for each bottling. Port Askaig 110° Proof is a cask-strength whisky, bottled at 55% and matured in American oak, offering the perfect balance of smoke and sweet fruit. It is intense yet elegant, fresh and citrusy, and full of character that reflects the complex and beguiling nature of beautiful Islay Scotch whisky.

Islay whisky creates a myriad of styles, displaying light honey and sea spray flavours, as well as crashing waves of smoke and peat. These characters are essential to creating an exceptional Islay Scotch whisky and so, in order to maintain the authenticity of the Port Askaig liquid, the creators do not use chill filtering and no colouring is added.

Sam Filmus, President of the brand’s importer ImpEx Beverages, commented:
“Given the growing popularity of Islay whiskies, we are excited to be adding Port Askaig to the ImpEx portfolio of fine Scotches. Port Askaig has already gained widespread popularity outside of the United States among Islayphiles, due to its uniqueness, quality, and the devoted people behind the brand, and we’re thrilled that it’s now available in the U.S.”

The brand has enjoyed great success in the UK and Europe where its creator Elixir Distillers first launched. Oliver Chilton, whiskymaker for Elixir Distillers, expands:
“Since launching Port Askaig in 2009 we have always looked to introduce new people to Islay whisky and it is exciting to take the next step in that journey by taking the brand to America. As we are whisky fans first and foremost we are looking forward to taking our small batch malt and spreading the word with the passionate people at ImpEx. We’ll be focused on putting our whisky into hands of connoisseurs looking for something new as well as using it as a gateway to the incredible world of Islay whisky.”

ImpEx will introduce the brand to the US market via distributors initially in California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Illinois, Maryland, Washington DC, Missouri, Texas, Colorado, Florida, Michigan and Delaware. There are plans to widen availability into other states in 2018.

Port Askaig 110° Proof will be available at all good Scotch whisky retailers from October 2017 at an RSP of $74.99.

About Elixir Distillers – www.elixirdistillers.com
Elixir Distillers is a creator, blender and bottler of fine spirits. The team, led by whiskymaker Oliver Chilton, seeks to combine aesthetically beautiful design with delicious, characterful spirits. The core brands of the business are Port Askaig, Elements of Islay, Single Malts of Scotland and Black Tot. Every member of the Elixir Distillers team is a spirits enthusiast with immense product knowledge, looking to produce the world’s next great drink. Quite simply, this passion is why the company’s brands have become so popular around the world.

About ImpEx Beverages – www.impexbev.com
Founded in 2008, ImpEx is an acclaimed US importer of fine spirits with a focus on independent Scotch whiskies. Their portfolio includes Port Askaig, Kilchoman, Tamdhu, Isle of Skye, Exclusive Malts and Chapter 7 which they distribute nationally.

Hibiki 21 Years Old Named “Supreme Champion Spirit” Top Award of Global Spirits Competition “International Spirits Challenge” Held in UK

Suntory Whisky Hibiki 21 Years Old was honored with the “Supreme Champion Spirit” award at the International Spirits Challenge 2017 awards ceremony held on Wednesday, July 12 (local time). This was the 22nd holding of the International Spirits Challenge, a global competition held in London which recognizes outstanding quality and excellence in spirits.

This year, Hibiki 21 Years Old won the “Supreme Champion Spirit” award, in addition to winning a “Trophy” award (best-in-category) in the “World Whisky” category. The “Supreme Champion Spirit” award is bestowed upon the most outstanding product from among Trophy award winners across all categories. This means that Hibiki 21 Years Old was selected as the top spirit out of 1,480 entries spanning across all categories recognized in the competition. It is the fifth year in a row for Hibiki 21 Years Old to win a “Trophy” award (best-in-category).

Suntory Spirits was also recognized as “World Whisky Producer of the Year,” an award bestowed upon one whisky maker in the “World Whisky” category for producing a wide variety of high-quality products.

We sincerely believe these awards to be a further testament to our masterful blending techniques in making whisky and high levels of product quality recognized by consumers around the world.

▼About Suntory Whisky Hibiki 21 Years Old
This whisky is a blend of rare and meticulously selected mature malt and grain whiskies aged over 21 years. With aromas of sweet dried fruit and a spicy flavor, it is characterized by a solemn, refined richness and profound, lingering echoes.

▼ Award Names and Recipients
Supreme Champion Spirit
Trophy in the World Whisky category: Suntory Whisky Hibiki 21 Years Old
World Whisky Producer of the Year: Suntory Spirits Limited

COLONEL E.H. TAYLOR, JR. SINGLE BARREL NAMED BEST AMERICAN WHISKEY AT 2017 INTERNATIONAL SPIRITS CHALLENGE 

        FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Aug. 8, 2017) – Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey was awarded as the best American Whiskey at the International Spirits Challenge gala dinner in London, where it received an ISC Trophy. This awards ceremony honors the best spirits in the world and awards a trophy to only the top product in each category.

        “We feel honored and very grateful to receive this award,” Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley said. “Our Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Bourbon is a great whiskey and one that we’re very proud of, and we’re excited for it to receive this recognition among the world’s best spirits.”

The ISC gala followed the announcement of medals presented earlier this summer in which Buffalo Trace Distillery was awarded Gold for, Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. The Distillery was awarded Silver for its Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Each spirit in the competition underwent a blind tasting, conducted by a panel of renowned industry experts who scored each spirit on its aroma, appearance, taste and finish. This year, the 22^nd annual International Spirits Challenge received more than 1,300 entries from nearly 70 countries around the globe.

Results from the 2017 International Spirits Challenge can be found HERE .

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 17 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named “Brand Innovator of the Year” by Whisky Magazine at its Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 300 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com