Rare Scotch Enjoys Record Run

The UK auction market for Scotch malt whisky has enjoyed a record run, with the total value sold at auction surpassing £2 million in each of the last 3 months of April, May and June , according to new data released by whisky analyst, broker and investment experts Rare Whisky 101.

During these past three months, the secondary market for rare Scotch malt whisky has achieved its highest ever average price per bottle of £286.

21,617 bottles were sold on the secondary market during this record-breaking period, versus 12,638 in the same period in 2016, a 71% increase.

A cumulative total of £6.18M has been spent on rare whisky at auction compared to £2.80M in the same period in 2016, an increase of 121%.

The figures underline the continued trend of value growth exceeding volume growth. In the past month (June) alone, RW101 has noted a 54% increase in volume and a 94% increase in value of Scotch malt whisky sold at auction, compared to June last year.

The figures point to another very strong six months’ performance for the UK’s secondary rare whisky market, when RW101’s half year report is published later this Summer.

Whisky investment analyst and co-founder of Rare Whisky 101, Andy Simpson commented: “Any question as to whether the recent increases in the rare whisky market would begin to plateau can, for now, be summarily dismissed. Even we wondered whether the market could continue to expand at such levels, following another record braking year in 2016. The performance of Scotch malt whisky at auction over the past three months has been nothing short of phenomenal.

“The growing popularity of online auctions, combined with recent moves by traditional rare whisky retailers to set up their own auction sites, continues to drive demand.  By joining the secondary market sector, these “bricks n mortar” retailers have finally realised that they can’t afford to lose rare whisky customers to the auction market.

“Anecdotally we have seen growing demand from North America and Asia over recent times.   We have also experienced a dramatic increase in enquiries from Asian and USA professional buyers looking to set up new supply agreements to capitalise on this dynamically growing market.”

To download the last full set of results for the UK rare whisky auction market, click here

Notes: 

Images: Rare Whisky 101 co-founders Andy Simpson and David Robertson

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 almost 240,000 price records across over 30,000 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, Rosebank and Highland Park.

CHARITY TO BENEFIT FROM FIRST RELEASE OF POLAR EXPLORER SINGLE MALT  

Limited edition Islay whisky containing Arctic iceberg water

 will appeal to collectors with nose for adventure 

The launch today (Sunday 23 July) of a limited edition 12 year-old Port Charlotte single malt Islay whisky that includes drops of pure blue, millennia-old iceberg water from the Sermilik Fjord in Eastern Greenland, is certain to appeal to the international whisky collector with a nose for unique expressions and adventure.

From this Friday (28 July), bids with an expected starting price of £100 can be placed through Whisky Auctioneer for one of ten individually numbered bottles of the Polar Explorer single malt whisky. All monies raised from the auction of each bottle will directly benefit the work of The Polar Academy – a Scottish charity.

Following the auction, donations can also be made directly to the charity for one of an additional 190 bottles of the limited edition single malt whisky.

Craig Mathieson, Scotland’s greatest living polar explorer and one of only 12 polar explorers in the world to have skied to both the south and north poles, founded the charity in 2014. Its life-changing work helps young people afflicted by low self-esteem to unlock their potential and redefine their physical and mental limits through expeditions to the Arctic. The charity has already engaged more than 50,000 young people across Scotland.

Mathieson’s remarkable journeys have also inspired the Polar Explorer.  It is the first single malt whisky from Scotland to reduce its natural cask strength to 50% ABV by incorporating water from Scotland andmelted pure blue iceberg water from Greenland.

In the summer of 2016, while exploring by sea-kayak, Mathieson carefully collected samples of iceberg calved from the ancient glaciers and now adrift in the stunning and remote Sermilik Fjord.  Meaning ‘place of glaciers’ in Greenlandic, its serene waters form one of the largest fjords on the south-eastern coast of Greenland.

The internationally acclaimed whisky expert Charles MacLean described the Polar Explorer as ‘a cracking dram’ and went on to explain:  “It is a very interesting whisky with real depth and a very good texture.  It’s an exceptionally good Port Charlotte with a base note of smoked honey glazed ham and salty seaweed.  It was a real honour to meet Craig and learn more about his Polar exploration.  I have scored the Polar Explorer an impressive 8.1 out of 10.”

The journey to produce every precious drop of the Polar Explorer single malt whisky began when a single sherry cask of matured Port Charlotte single malt whisky was generously gifted to Craig Mathieson by Steve Thom, a director of Edinburgh-based Cornhill Building Services Ltd.  A heavily peated single malt whisky with a long finish, Port Charlotte is an expression expertly crafted by the renowned Bruichladdich Distillery on the Inner Hebridean Isle of Islay.

From the single privately owned cask of Port Charlotte, a limited number of bottles subsequently received the addition of pure iceberg water.  A very small amount of ice was carefully hand harvested in the same way the local Inuit population has collected ice for water for centuries.

Mathieson, who is also the first Explorer in Residence of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society in 129 years, has signed each individually numbered bottle of Polar Explorer.  Designed by Wolffe in Edinburgh, Polar Explorer is presented in a wooden box and wrapped in an eye-catching sketch map of Arctic Greenland.  The necktie and beautifully illustrated label tell the story of the explorer’s bonds to both the wild waters and landscapes of the Isle of Islay and Arctic Greenland.

Commenting on the launch of the Polar Explorer, Craig Mathieson said: “Supported by Trustees of The Polar Academy and private donors, today I am immensely proud to announce the first release of individually numbered and signed bottles of the Polar Explorer limited edition single malt whisky.

“The Polar Explorer is truly unique, a bottle that reflects both its spiritual home in the Isle of Islay and bond with the wild Arctic landscape.  Both are close to my heart. To support the work of The Polar Academy, I invite purveyors of this fine single malt Scotch whisky to bid at auction, or subsequently make a donation to the charity for a bottle of the whisky and share my taste for a fine malt and adventure. Slainte!”

www.thepolaracademy.org

@polar_academy

facebook.com/thepolaracademy

Polar Explorer – Tasting Notes

Courtesy of Blair Bowman, whisky consultant and author (www.blairbowman.com/)

Colour: Bright copper Nose: Salted caramel with macaroons and pear drops at first, followed by soot and sea salt. More green fruit notes, crisp granny smith apples and very tart gooseberries.  Balanced with sweet and soft smoke.  Palate: A chewy and juicy mouth feel gives more delicious apples and pear notes, combined with burnt marshmallow and smouldering charcoal BBQ smoke. Followed by more sea spray, waxy ropes and oily soot.

Finish: A wonderfully long finish that perfectly balances elements of sweet and smoke.

Overall: A fantastic dram with plenty of fruitiness and smoke, though not too much smoke, to appeal to a wide variety of tastes. A cracking dram to sip and savour with friends after a meal (or after an arduous expedition!) letting the combination of sweet and smoke dance on your tongue. 

About Craig Mathieson

After a career in the military, Mathieson went on to lead the first dedicated Scottish expedition to the South Pole in 2004, The Scot100 Expedition.  The route took him from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole. In temperatures below minus 55°C, he hauled a 180lb sledge for 56 days over a total distance of 730 miles.

He has since completed many expeditions, including skiing to the North Pole. Yet he gains the most satisfaction from training and inspiring the young adults he annually selects to join him on Arctic expedition in Greenland.  It’s a life-changing journey for the participants, redefining their physical and mental limits. In the Arctic wilderness, self-confidence soars with every step. 

The label of the Polar Explorer limited edition single malt whisky reads

‘Craig Mathieson’s senses are enlivened when paddling amidst Greenland’s icebergs and circumnavigating Islay’s challenging waters. Islands close to his heart, it’s fitting that every precious bottle from the Polar Explorer’s malt cask is informed by pure drops of iceberg and the sea air of the malt’s spiritual home. Slainte!  

DA MHILE SPRINGBANK 1992 VINTAGE 25 YEAR OLD ORGANIC SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY CASK

After the success last year with the sale of a cask of Da Mhile Springbank 24 Year Old Organic Single Malt Scotch Whisky, when we achieved a world record price of £88,750 (inc. buyer’s premium) for a cask of organic whisky, we are delighted to announce the sale of a sister cask to last year’s in our August Whisky and Wine Sale.  The cask is current stored under bond at the Da Mhile Distillery’s own warehouse in Ceredigion, South West Wales.

The cask details are as follows:

Distillery: Springbank

Age: 25 Years Old

Specifics: Organic – fully accredited by the Soil Association.

Cask No: 232

Original Fill: 243 Litres

Regauged Contents:           180.1 Bulk Litres

                                                90.23 L/A

Temperature: 15.5°

This lot is being offered for sale as Lot 100 with an estimate of £50,000 – £60,000.

Interested parties should contact us as soon as possible for further details and a limited number of samples are available.

We will also be offering a complete collection of whisky bottlings from Da Mhile, including the early bottles of Springbank Organic Single Malt from sister casks to this cask.

www.mulberrybankauctions.com

MIGHTY MACALLAN SET TO STAR AT BONHAMS WHISKY AUCTION IN HONG KONG

Complete set of The Macallan in Lalique Six Pillars Collection. Estimate HK$3,600,000-4,600,000.

A complete set of The Macallan in Lalique Six Pillars Collection leads Bonhams Whisky sale in Hong Kong on 18 August. It is estimated at HK$3,600,000-4,600,000.

The six decanters, made exclusively by the renowned French crystal house Lalique, were issued in strictly limited numbers between 2006-2016, and contain very rare Macallan whisky aged, in order of release, 50, 55, 57, 60, 62, and 65 years old.

Bonhams Whisky specialist in Hong Kong Daniel Lam said, “Individual bottles from The Macallan in Lalique Six Pillars Collection are among the most sought after and highest performing whiskies at auction. This is a wonderful and rare opportunity for collectors to acquire such a desirable set in its entirety.”

Macallan features strongly elsewhere in the sale with a single Macallan Millennium Decanter estimated at HK$210,000-250,000 and a vertical series of Macallan – 40 bottles from 1958-2006 inclusive – estimated at $600,000-800,000.

Collection of 15 single malt whiskies bottled for the Conti Brothers. Estimate: HK$220,000-260,000.

The sale also offers a collection of whiskies bottled specifically for the Conti Brothers grocery store in Sacramento. The shop, established in 1947, is famous for its gourmet products. This collection is made up of 15 single malts personally selected by the brothers and bottled for them in the 1970s and ‘80s.  It includes such famous names as Macallan, Glenfarclas, Highland Park and Longmorn, and is estimated at HK$220,000-260,000.

Seven bottles from The Ghost Series. Estimate: HK$270,000-350,000.

As ever, Japanese whisky is well represented in the sale –  notably, an Ichiro Hanyu Ace-high straight flush at HK$150,000-190,000 and, for the first time at a Bonhams Hong Kong Whisky auction, seven bottles from The Ghost Series, estimated at HK$270,000-350,000. The series is illustrated by images from New Forms of 36 Ghosts, by the 19th century master of Japanese woodblock printing, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. 

In total, the auction offers 298 lots and has an estimated value of HK$10,000,000.

NOTES

Whisky ~Bonhams Hong Kong, One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong
18 August 6.30 p.m.
Specialist: Daniel Lam, Specialist

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

RAFA CABRERA-BELLO TOASTS TO VICTORY AT THE BALLANTINE’S SPONSORED ABERDEEN ASSET MANAGEMENT SCOTTISH OPEN 2017 

Ballantine’s celebrates 10 years as the official Scotch whisky sponsor

July 2017, Ayrshire – Spanish player, Rafa Cabrera-Bello completed an unforgettable four days today by winning the Aberdeen Asset Management (AAM) Scottish Open after a thrilling play-off against Englishman Callum Shinkwin. Sponsored by Ballantine’s Scotch whisky, the event is one of the European Tour’s flagship tournaments and precedes the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale Golf Club.

Cabrera-Bello was crowned champion of Scotland’s national open after an excellent week of highly competitive golf in challenging and testing conditions. The final day started with some of the world’s most popular golfers in contention. European Ryder Cup hero Ian Poulter and Matt Kuchar from America were among those poised to make a challenge on the Dundonald Links on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast.

The Spaniard won his third European Tour victory with a birdie at the first extra hole after hitting a brilliant approach shot into the par-five 18th from 275 yards.

Ballantine’s is the No.1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the No. 2 Scotch whisky in the world. Its association with golf started in 1960 when the first Ballantine’s tournament took place at Wentworth Club and it has been a proud official sponsor of the Scottish Open for the past decade.

Peter Moore, Global Brand Director of Ballantine’s Prestige commented: “We are very proud that Ballantine’s is yet again a part of the prestigious Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open for the 10th year running. This year, the standard was higher than ever, with the tournament bringing together world-class players for an absolutely wonderful week of golf. We congratulate Rafa Cabrera-Bello on his fantastic win at this legendary tournament and hope that he has a chance to enjoy his Ballantine’s 30 Year Old when he returns home.”

Ballantine’s presence at this year’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open included: on-course signage and player awards, including a bottle of Ballantine’s 17 Year Old for a birdie on the 17th hole, a bottle of Ballantine’s 21 Year Old for the lowest round of each day, and a bottle of Ballantine’s 30 Year Old for the winner.

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 ten 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.

www.ballantines.com

Twitter: @Ballantines

Facebook: facebook.com/ballantines

Twitter: twitter.com/ballantines

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ballantines 

About Ballantine’s in Golf:

Ballantine’s has a rich history in golf dating back to 1960 when the first Ballantine’s sponsored golf tournament was played at Wentworth Club in England. Ballantine’s founded the Ballantine’s Championship in 2008, remaining title sponsor of the tournament until 2013. Ballantine’s has also been a sponsor of the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open since 2007. 

About Chivas Brothers

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

www.chivasbrothers.com

Twitter: @ChivasNewsRoom 

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier- Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 85 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.

Maker’s Mark® Unveils Exclusive Art Exhibition By Celebrated Artist Dale Chihuly

(Loretto, Ky.) June 29, 2017 – Two American icons are coming together once again to create an experience that captures the imagination and dazzles the senses. Maker’s Mark®, the pioneer of premium bourbon, is proud to celebrate the work of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly with the unveiling of Chihuly at Maker’s.

Inspired by the distillery’s light-filled Burke House Welcome Center and surrounding lush campus grounds, Chihuly at Maker’s is a temporary, site-specific exhibition and the second installation commissioned for Maker’s Mark by Chihuly. His first celebrated permanent installation, The Spirit of the Maker, was unveiled in 2014 as a tribute to Maker’s tradition of bourbon making in Kentucky.

“I had the privilege to visit the landmark Maker’s Mark Distillery in 2014 when we worked together to install The Spirit of the Maker,” said artist Dale Chihuly.  “I was inspired then by its unique landscape and architecture and am excited to share my work from the perspective of its special surroundings.”

Chihuly at Maker’s is comprised of six large-scale art installations sited throughout the distillery grounds.  From July through October of this year, the Maker’s Mark Distillery will be transformed by Chihuly’s dramatic works of art purposefully set throughout the historic landmark campus to complement the distillery’s landscape and architecture. Included in the exhibition is: Summer Sun, a 12-foot tall blown glass and steel sculpture; a collection of five fiery-red Baskets; and an 18-foot wide Crimson and Chestnut Fiori Boat, which combines a range of forms massed together in a traditional wooden boat.

The Sapphire and Platinum Waterdrop Tower, which stands at approximately 12-feet, is a classic demonstration of Chihuly’s desire to mass color on a steel armature for dramatic effect. For centuries, blown glass pieces were small, intricately designed and admired from atop a table. In contrast, Chihuly’s Towers rise from the ground like huge stalagmites and have been an iconic aesthetic of installations in art museums and botanical gardens worldwide. Like all Chihuly sculptures, the Sapphire and Platinum Waterdrop Tower was designed specifically for its location, in this case, in front of the distillery’s cellar and natural water source.

“Just as my grandparents, the founders of Maker’s Mark, first envisioned, we’re committed to enhancing our visitor experience with culturally immersive opportunities unlike any other distillery in the world,” said Rob Samuels, the eighth-generation whisky maker and Chief Operating Officer of Maker’s Mark. “Creating our handmade bourbon isn’t a job – it’s an art form. It’s an honor to have formed such a lasting relationship with world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly.”

Chihuly at Maker’s is one of several site-specific installations from Chihuly that have been featured at high-profile locations around the country, including recent exhibits at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the New York Botanical Garden and the Catalina Island Museum in Avalon, California.

The official Grand Opening of Chihuly at Maker’s will take place Saturday, July 1, 2017 at 6:30 p.m., with a viewing picnic at the Maker’s Mark distillery. Admission is $50 and includes a meal and two drinks from the distillery’s new fast-casual restaurant, Star Hill Provisions™. From July 1 – Oct. 31, admission to Chihuly at Maker’s is included as part of the tour ticket cost ($12) during the distillery’s daytime operating hours, Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

In addition, on Saturday nights from July 22-Oct. 7, visitors will be able to enjoy the remarkable art of Dale Chihuly in a new way with “Chihuly Nights,” an exclusive and stunning look at the exhibition after dark. As the sun sets, guests will experience the enchanting glass sculptures glowing with light against the dark Kentucky sky. Maker’s Mark Bourbon and cocktails alongside fine Kentucky fare from the distillery’s resident chef, Newman Miller of Star Hill Provisions, will be included. Admission to Chihuly Nights is $20 and includes admission to the distillery grounds for self-guided tours. Separate tickets are required for day and night.

For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.makersmark.com/chihuly or contact the distillery Visitor Center at 270-865-2099.

Jim Beam Black® Announces First-Ever Barbershop Experience at Iconic Clermont Distillery

This article is published today as a ‘catch~up’ article – WI

Chicago – (2017) – In anticipation of Kentucky’s annual Derby season, Jim Beam Black® is helping fans elevate their style with a limited-time barbershop pop-up at the Jim Beam® American Stillhouse. Visitors will be offered complimentary hair cuts and men’s beard trims from 5^th generation Philadelphia-based barbershop, The Duke, from 9-5 p.m. on May 4 and 5.

With more than 12 combined generations of experience in both bourbon and barbering, Jim Beam and The Duke are providing an experience that combines both heritage and tradition for the city’s most historic event. To ensure that guests are looking and feeling their best for the big race, services will be available to anyone of legal-drinking age.

The Jim Beam Black barbershop pop-up is the first of a series of nationwide events taking place throughout the summer of 2017. The world’s highest-rated bourbon according to the 2016 International Wine & Spirits Competition* is partnering with well-known barbershops in nine cities across the country to host events centered around elevating your style, through grooming and through your cocktail choice.

“We’re traveling across the country, starting right here in Kentucky, to show our fans that it doesn’t take much to elevate your taste and style,” said Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s 7th Generation Master Distiller. “Jim Beam Black, one of my personal favorites, is a delicious extra-aged bourbon to sip on if you’re looking for a more flavorful drink choice for the big race.”

In addition to complimentary hair cuts and beard trims, the barbers at the Jim Beam Black barbershop experience will provide hair curling and makeup touch-ups to women visiting the distillery as well. Services for both men and women will be offered on a first-come first-served basis throughout the course of the two-day experience.

Jim Beam Black is a premium Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with a more flavorful character made to be sipped and savored. At 86 proof, this bourbon is aged longer than original Jim Beam Bourbon in the same white oak barrels, giving it a full-bodied flavor with smooth caramel and warm oak notes.

Tours of the Jim Beam American Stillhouse will also be available to visitors throughout the week. A variety of tour options that allow guests to participate in the full bourbon production process – from mixing grains to bottling your own Jim Beam product – are available at www.JimBeam.com.

*Awarded International Wine & Spirits Competition’s Bourbon Trophy. All trademarks are the property of their respective owner

About The Duke

The Duke is the modern man’s answer to a classic barbershop venue. Established by 5^th generation owner and Master Barber, William Brown, the barbershop was created in response to the growing demand for upscale grooming services in the Philadelphia area. The Duke specializes in traditional shaves with hot lather, trims, haircuts and more and is home to several of Philadelphia’s most talented men’s barbers.

About the Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Nestled in the rolling foothills of Clermont, Kentucky, the Jim Beam American Stillhouse provides an intimate look at the world’s No. 1 bourbon. Visitors are immersed in more than 220 years of Beam family heritage through a series of educational bourbon tastings and in-depth guided tours. For those looking to enjoy Jim Beam whiskies in a whole new way, the new Jim Beam® Bourbon Bar located on Beam Hill delivers a best-in-class cocktail experience. Guests can also enjoy bourbon-inspired Kentucky fare at Fred’s Smokehouse, which is named after seventh generation master distiller and great-grandson of Jim Beam, Fred Noe. Monthly “Distillery Days” offer everything from blue grass concerts to cocktail classes, offering guests even more reason to come as friends and leave as family.

The Jim Beam American Stillhouse is open Monday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

For more information or to reserve your tour tickets online, visit the Jim Beam American Stillhouse online at JimBeam.com. Or, like Jim Beam American Stillhouse on Facebook and follow @JimBeam on Twitter.

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.

About

The Chivas Venture 2017 winners announcement

HALLE BERRY RAISES A GLASS TO STARTUPS

WHO WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD

Thailand’s Siam Organic announced as standout winner

of the $1m Chivas Venture competition

July 2017: Oscar-winning actress, philanthropist and businesswoman Halle Berry was in Los Angeles tonight to crown the winners of the Chivas Venture – Chivas Regal’s $1 million global search to find and support the next generation of startups that want to succeed while creating a better future for society. The winners were announced after five innovative entrepreneurs pitched in front of a star-studded live audience including Hollywood sensations Javier Bardem and Don Cheadle.  Thailand’s Siam Organic, which aims to end small-scale farmers’ poverty, walked away with the largest contribution from the Chivas Venture fund, receiving $400,000.

The event – hosted by actor and comedian Josh Gad and held at LADC Studios in Los Angeles – was the culmination of the third year of the Chivas Venture, which has seen 30 finalists from 6 continents compete for a share of the total $1 million fund. The judging panel – which comprised Halle Berry; founding Executive Director of the Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation at Georgetown University, Sonal Shah; founder of MissionU, Pencils of Promise and best-selling author of The Promise of a Pencil, Adam Braun; and Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard, which owns Chivas Regal, Alexandre Ricard – assessed each business based on their ability to create sustainable change through a viable business model and potential to scale.

The additional finalists to receive funding and recognition were: Nigeria’s Recycle Points ($200,000) – which helps consumers to create value from their everyday waste; Colombia’s Bioestibas ($50,000) – which produces ecological stowage from flower waste that would otherwise pollute the environment; South Africa’s iDrop Water ($50,000), which aims to change the way water is consumed and sold in Africa, through vending units that purify and dispense water in-store; and Israel’s Intendu ($50,000), which aids brain rehabilitation through the use of video games.

Reacting to his win, overall winner Peetachai (Neil) Dejkraisak from Siam Organic said:

“I am so happy and grateful – this will have a massive impact. We have extremely limited resources, so to have funding like this from the Chivas Venture is just incredible. It will fast-track our project by 3 or 4 years – and save me a lot of grey hair and sleepless nights!”

When asked by host Josh Gad if social entrepreneurs are today’s superheroes, X-Men star and judge Halle Berry commented:

“All of the finalists here tonight are our modern-day heroes. They are all fighting to make a change and have a positive impact on the world.” 

Pernod Ricard Chairman and CEO Alexandre Ricard added:

“The calibre of finalists this evening was extremely high. To see Neil and the other finalists succeed will be the ultimate fulfilment for us as judges. We wish them all the very best.”

Now in its third year, the Chivas Venture has to date received almost 6,000 applications from startups that are striving to use innovation and enterprise to make the world a better place. The $2 million given away over the past two years has been used to support startups that now have over 300,000 beneficiaries in more than 40 countries across the globe. The vision of the future as imagined by this year’s 30 finalists is a place where protein bars are made from crickets and shoes made from garbage; where walls of moss clean city air and human waste is turned into affordable cooking fuel.

Continuing Chivas’ commitment to inspire and support future generations of entrepreneurs, social enterprises from across the world are invited to apply for the chance to win a share of $1 million in funding as entries for the Chivas Venture 2018 open on 4th September 2017. Visit the Chivas Venture website for further details.

Notes:

For more information please contact:

Louisa Humm – Chivas Regal – Louisa.Humm@Pernod-Ricard.com

Alex Andrew – Pangolin PR – Alex@PangolinPR.com

The Chivas Venture

The Chivas Venture is a global search to find and support the next generation of startups that want to succeed while creating a better future for society. Since the Chivas Venture first launched in 2014, almost 6,000 social enterprises have applied for the chance to receive a share of the annual $1 million fund. This year, over 30 countries across 6 continents are taking part in the Chivas Venture.

Last year in New York, global judge Eva Longoria and host Trevor Noah announced the winners of the $1 million fund. Social startup Conceptos Plasticos from Colombia was awarded the largest share of the fund, receiving $300,000.

About Chivas Regal            

Launched in 1909, Chivas Regal is the world’s first luxury whisky and is considered to be a timeless classic, renowned for its benchmark quality and taste, style, substance and exclusivity. A truly global brand, Chivas Regal has been integral to the growth of the Scotch whisky category worldwide and today sells 4.5 million 9L cases annually in more than 150 countries across the globe. With generosity, entrepreneurship and integrity at the heart of Chivas Regal, the brand launched its successful Win the Right Way campaign in 2014, which aims to inspire a new generation whilst making a positive impact on the lives of others. The Chivas Regal range includes: Chivas 12, Chivas Extra, Chivas 18, Chivas 25, ultra-prestige blend and pinnacle of the range Chivas Regal The Icon, and the Global Travel Retail exclusive Chivas Brothers Blend. Launched in October 2016, Chivas Regal Ultis is the first blended malt Scotch whisky from the House of Chivas and represents the true essence of Chivas Regal.

www.chivas.com

INTRODUCING A SINGLE GRAIN MADE BY A PROUD MANY:

KILBEGGAN® SINGLE GRAIN IRISH WHISKEY 

Inspired by the resilient townspeople of its namesake, Kilbeggan Distilling Company honors both tradition and innovation with its newest expression

Chicago, IL (June 28, 2017) – For more than 200 hundred years, the humble town of Kilbeggan produced a whiskey beloved the world over. As Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery since 1757, Kilbeggan has always been more than just a stone building with a water wheel to power it and its copper pot stills. It has been the townspeople’s heart and soul, their pride and joy.

Today, the town of Kilbeggan celebrates the announcement of another beloved whiskey: Kilbeggan® Single Grain Irish Whiskey. Released in the U.S. this month, the newest addition to the Kilbeggan Distilling Company offers a premium whiskey for enthusiasts and bartenders alike.

When Prohibition in the U.S. and other factors contributed to the shuttering of Kilbeggan Distillery’s doors, the residents banded together to save the whiskey that defined their town. They pooled funds to pay for the distillery license and put in years of hard work, late nights and weekends to restore it until eventually the distillery came back to life and its stills were once again filled. Every bottle of Kilbeggan, an original Irish whiskey built on the strong bond between the town that birthed it and the distillery producing it, is proof that their spirit has never left. It is the townspeople’s dedication to honoring the whiskey-making traditions of the past while creating a better future that inspired the creation of Kilbeggan Single Grain. It can be said that this is a single grain made by a proud many.

“The passion and dedication that the citizens of Kilbeggan put into keeping this distillery alive is truly inspirational,” says John Cashman, Beam Suntory Global Brand Ambassador, Irish Whiskey. “Kilbeggan Single Grain is born out of this resilience and we are proud to offer a whiskey to be enjoyed by all – whether that’s as a traditional neat dram or in a modern craft cocktail. The folks at Kilbeggan Distilling Co. are happy to share it with you any way you like.”

The notion that “single grain” describes a whiskey made with just one grain is a common misperception. Rather, the term refers to whiskey made in a single location using malted barley and at least one other grain. Kilbeggan Single Grain is made of 94% meticulously-sourced corn plus 6% malted barley.

Distilled at 86 proof, Kilbeggan Single Grain is a delicate spirit that absorbs the flavors of the casks in which it is aged. After aging in ex-bourbon barrels, it is finished in a marriage of ex-bourbon and various fortified wine barrels. It possesses Irish whiskey’s trademark versatility and smoothness, making it the ideal for modern or classic cocktails, like a Whiskey Sour, but with enough depth of flavor to be sipped neat.

“Kilbeggan enjoyed a tremendous heyday back in the 1800s when Irish whiskey was thriving and distilleries abounded, before the devastation to the industry that came with Prohibition and other challenges,” says Cashman. “A few years ago, I’m happy to say, the world rediscovered the beauty of Irish whiskey. And Kilbeggan once again is rising to the top and setting the standard through innovations like Kilbeggan Single Grain. We can’t wait to see a bottle on every bar, just like in the good old days.”

With the booming consumer interest in brown spirits, Irish whiskey has seen substantial growth over the last decade. Per the Distilled Spirits Council, the national trade association representing producers and marketers of distilled spirits sold in the U.S., Irish Whiskey volumes rose 18.7% in 2016 to 3.8 million cases and revenues were up an impressive 19.8% to $795 million. The Council reports that much of this growth is fueled by the rise of high-end and super premium Irish whiskeys, which grew an astounding 737% and 3,455%, respectively, since 2002.

The U.S. will be the first country in the world to introduce Kilbeggan Single Grain Irish Whiskey. Available beginning in late June 2017 with a suggested retail price of $29.99 (750ml), it joins the U.S. portfolio alongside Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey (40% ABV), an approachable, smooth blended whiskey that is still made using traditional methods. With the new expression, Kilbeggan Distilling Company’s portfolio now features several whiskeys that appeal to and are available across a variety of consumer targets, price tiers and whiskey occasions.

KILBEGGAN SINGLE GRAIN TASTING NOTES | 43% ABV

NOSE: Coconut cream, vanilla, jellied fruit and summer red berries

PALATE: Wafer-like biscuit sweetness, hazelnut and light spice with nice oak tannins drying on the side of the mouth

FINISH: Crisp and fruity, glazed cherries drying with a lingering spice 

The Wheel

2 parts Kilbeggan® Single Grain

½ part of Aperol®

¾ part lime juice

¾ part simple syrup

2 dashes of absinthe

Combine ingredients, shake and serve on the rocks. Garnish with a lemon peel or thyme sprig.  

The Brosna Sour

2 parts Kilbeggan® Single Grain

¼ part lemon juice

¾ part grapefruit juice

¾ part simple syrup

1 egg white

Combine ingredients, shake without ice, then add ice (1/2 tin) and shake again.

Serve in a coupe glass without garnish.

Still Steam

2 parts Kilbeggan® Single Grain

½ part lemon juice

½ part genepy (alpine liqueur)

½ part simple syrup

1 black tea bag

Combine ingredients, top with hot water and steep for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with a thyme sprig or lemon peel. 

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 http://www.beamsuntory.com/ and www.drinksmart.com.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY FORGES AHEAD

WITH EXPANSION PLANS AS PART OF $200M INVESTMENT 

Bourbon Inventory Still Tight; Things Looking Up Long Term 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (July 11, 2017) Buffalo Trace Distillery is barreling ahead with its expansion plans announced last year, all in response to the continued rise in the popularity of bourbon whiskey. More than $200 million is being spent at this National Historic Landmark Distillery, as new barrel warehouses are built and the bottling operation is relocated to make room for distillery expansion with new cookers and fermenters.

Already, Buffalo Trace is finishing up the conversion of two former office buildings back into barrel warehouses, with warehouses “R” and “S” being filled with barrels to age now, and warehouses “T” and “U” completed last year. The two buildings hold a combined 200,000 barrels of aging whiskey, but this is still not enough to meet the growing demand for Buffalo Trace.

             In addition to repurposing warehouses, Buffalo Trace is also building new barrel warehouses on the additional 200 acres of farmland it purchased a few years ago. These are the first new barrel warehouses with significant capacity that Buffalo Trace Distillery has built since 1951.  Ground has already been broken on the first warehouse, which will hold more than 55,000 barrels, and completion is expected by the end of this year, with the first barrels planned to be rolled in early 2018. After that, a new warehouse will be built every four months for the next several years. These new warehouses will each cost about $7 million to build and another $21 million to fill with barrels, making this expansion a significant investment.

            All that bourbon needs someplace to be bottled, which is why Buffalo Trace is moving its existing bottling operation into its old Distribution Center, located near the visitor parking lot. The new bottling hall will be more efficient, flexible, and improve overall quality. The move is expected to be complete by the end of 2018.

            Once the bottling hall moves, the Distillery will install larger cookers and additional fermenters for more bourbon production.  Already this summer, bourbon production is scheduled to run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for the first time in known history.  “This year we plan to match the all-time high of barrel production here at Buffalo Trace, set in 1973,” said Harlen Wheatley, master distiller. “Next year we’ll exceed that and set new production records.”

            While Buffalo Trace is preparing for the future, current bourbon inventory remains tight on its flagship bourbon. This shortage will continue for the next few years as demand continues to increase. Brands such as Eagle Rare, W.L. Weller and Blanton’s Single Barrel will see moderate growth. “While we have steadily increased bourbon production over the years, demand for our brands continues to outpace supply,” said Kris Comstock, senior marketing director. “Growth will be modest over the next few years, dictated by the number of barrels filled years ago. Most will be sold in the United States where demand continues to rise.”

            Bourbon allocations will continue, as they have for the past few years. Buffalo Trace will continue bourbon allocations monthly across the U.S. to ensure each state receives some every month. “We will not comprise taste nor quality, so rather than empty barrels prematurely, we’ll continue to wait for barrels to mature and allocate bourbon when it’s ready, while increasing production for the future,” added Comstock.

            Buffalo Trace Distillery would like to stress that while the bourbon shortages are prevalent on all of its brands, they speak only for themselves, not for the entire bourbon industry.  The overall whiskey category globally is up 4%, and in the U.S. whiskey growth is up 6.5%, according to International Wine and Spirits Research (IWSR).  However, nearly all the bourbon brands made at Buffalo Trace Distillery are experiencing double digit growth despite allocations.

Although Buffalo Trace is moving forward aggressively with expansion plans, allocations will continue, with no foreseeable end in sight.  Buffalo Trace Distillery would like to thank its customers for their continued support as they endeavor to make more bourbon, but good whiskey takes time and Mother Nature cannot be rushed!

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.