Loch Lomond Whiskies Announced as Official Whisky at 2017 Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open 

Premium Whisky brand joins Ladies Scottish Open history 

Dundonald, 5 July, 2017 – The Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open is proud to announce Loch Lomond Whiskies, a premium highland scotch whisky crafted in the heart of Scotland, as the official whisky sponsor of the Championship at Dundonald Links from 27^{th –} 30^th July.

Founded in 1814, Loch Lomond whiskies has a history steeped in tradition with their selection of whiskies distilled and matured in the shadow of Scotland’s majestic Ben Lomond. With a penchant for innovation and quality, Loch Lomond Whiskies is the perfect fit for this year’s Championship with the world’s top female players including Lydia Ko, Ariya Jutanugarn, Charley Hull and Scotland’s Catriona Matthew, heading to Dundonald Links to compete in the ground-breaking tournament.

For the first time in Scottish Open history, this year’s Championship is co-sanctioned between the Ladies European Tour and the LPGA and will have the highest prize fund on the LET outside the Majors with the 156-strong player field contesting for US$1.5m. Another milestone for the Championship sees the Ladies compete at the same venue as the Men’s Scottish Open with Dundonald Links playing host to both events over a three-week period.

Speaking about the announcement, Scott Dickson, Loch Lomond Whiskies, said, “We’re delighted to be part of our third Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open and feature in the events’ history in this ground-breaking year.  At Loch Lomond Whiskies we pride ourselves on quality and believe that partnering with a world-class event will be a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our brand to a knowledgeable audience with players and fans coming to watch from around the world.”

Loch Lomond Whiskies will be available to sample in the Championship village throughout the tournament days as well as being available to purchase over the weekend.

Taking place the week before the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Kingsbarns in 2017, the Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open will kick off a superb two weeks of links golf in Scotland. The back-to-back stretch of events echoes the successful strategy employed by the Men’s Scottish Open taking place the week before The Open – an approach proven to be a competitive advantage for those players competing in both Championships. The Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open is also a key element of Scotland’s commitments to the staging of The 2019 Solheim Cup at Gleneagles.

Watch the Aberdeen Asset Management Ladies Scottish Open LIVE on Sky Sports on Thursday/Friday from 14:00-17:00 and Saturday/Sunday from 15:00-18:00.  

Aberdeen – simply asset management

Aberdeen is one of the top five European pure-play, global asset managers. Aberdeen’s vision is to become the world’s most trusted partner in delivering investment simply.

We are defined by our pure focus on asset management, including equities, fixed income, property and multi-asset portfolios. All our investment solutions are driven by our commitment to straightforward, transparent investment approaches that stress intensive, first-hand research and a long-term view.

As of 31 March 2017, we manage assets of £308 billion on behalf of institutional and private investors.

www.aberdeen-asset.com @AberdeenAssetUK

Issued by Aberdeen Asset Managers Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK. 

Abut Loch Lomond Whiskies 

Expressions in the Loch Lomond Whiskies collection include, Loch Lomond 12-Year-Old; Loch Lomond Original; Loch Lomond 18 Year Old; Loch Lomond Classic; Loch Lomond Signature and Loch Lomond Single Grain.

Official social media accounts are Twitter: @LochLomondMalts Instagram: @lochlomondmalts

About Loch Lomond Group

Loch Lomond Group is an independent distiller based in Alexandria and is home to several award-winning spirit brands that are sold in over 100 countries worldwide.

Loch Lomond distillery has been producing the finest single malt whisky since 1814.

www.lochlomondgroup.com

Scotland, the Home of Golf: 

Scotland is renowned around the world as the Home of Golf. It is the birthplace of the game and to this day remains its spiritual home. It is also a modern, dynamic and world-class golf events and tourism destination welcoming hundreds of thousands of golfers every year and regularly playing host to the biggest tournaments in the world.

The golf industry in Scotland is worth more than £1 billion annually to the Scottish economy, of which golf events and golf tourism plays a major role.

Through activity delivered by organisations including VisitScotland, Scottish Development International and Scottish Golf, the Scottish Government is committed to continuing to support the growth of the game in this country. This includes; supporting economic and business growth within the Scottish economy, driving increased participation in the sport and helping to nurture the next generation of Scottish golfing stars through the Clubgolf programme of junior golf activities.

For more information on the Scottish Government and its partners: www.scotland.org|  www.visitscotland.com| www.scotent.co.uk | www.sdi.co.uk| www.scottishgolf.org | www.clubgolfscotland.com

About the LPGA

The LPGA is the world’s leading professional golf organization for women. Founded in 1950 and headquartered in Daytona Beach, Fla., the association celebrates a diverse and storied membership with more than 2,300 members representing more than 30 countries. With a vision to inspire, empower, educate and entertain by showcasing the very best of women’s golf, LPGA Tour Professionals compete across the globe, while the Symetra Tour, the official development and qualifying tour of the LPGA, consistently produces a pipeline of talent ready for the world stage. Additionally, LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals directly impact the game through teaching, coaching and management.

The LPGA demonstrates its dedication to the development of the game through The LPGA Foundation. Since 1991, this charitable organization has been committed to empowering and supporting girls and women through developmental and humanitarian golf initiatives, such as LPGA*USGA Girls Golf.

Follow the LPGA on its television home, Golf Channel, and on the web via www.LPGA.com. Join the social conversation at www.facebook.com/lpga, www.twitter.com/lpga and www.youtube.com/lpgavideo, and on Instagram and Snapchat at @lpga_tour.

About the Ladies European Tour

The Ladies European Tour (LET) is Europe’s leading women’s professional golf tour and formed as the WPGA in 1978. With 324 members from 38 different countries who inspire fans at more than 20 golf tournaments on five continents, the Ladies European Tour brings people and brands together through shared experiences and promotes world class sport entertainment through exceptional events which receive extensive international media and television coverage. At each event, it’s not just about the swing – it’s about a day that goes with a swing: a big day out with fun entertainment and a festival atmosphere set in beautiful scenery. The LET members captivate and excite with their strong performances, but don’t just appear and leave; they create a legacy by connecting with local communities and developing the game in the regions they visit. The Board of Directors are the guardians of the tour and along with the Players Council ensure the tour continues to grow and improve for players, fans and all associates.

Black Bowmore® 1964 – The Last Cask To Be Rediscovered – Arrives To The U.S.

Islay, Scotland (June 2017) – Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Whisky, the oldest licensed distillery on Scotland’s isle of Islay, announces the U.S. release of the fifth and final edition of the exclusive Black Bowmore® 1964 distillation. The last cask rediscovered of Black Bowmore 1964 has spent an astonishing 50 years maturing in Bowmore’s legendary No.1 Vaults, the world’s oldest Scotch maturation warehouse, making this captivating whisky the most aged expression of the Black Bowmore series. A mere 159 bottles were produced and released globally. This July, a portion of these bottles will be available stateside as part of the Bowmore 50 Year Old VAULT LEGENDS collection at a suggested retail price of $25,000 (750ml/40.9% ABV).

Black Bowmore 1964 50 Year Old is the second expression in the Bowmore 50 Year Old Collection, a series honoring the rare single malts that were first distilled and began aging in the No. 1 Vaults during the 1960s, an era known for producing some of Bowmore’s most collectible bottlings. The first in the series, Bowmore 1961 50 Year Old was introduced in December 2016 and is no longer available due to extremely high demand.

Black Bowmore was distilled on November 5, 1964, and over the years, has become one of the most rare and sought-after single malt whiskies ever created. With four acclaimed releases – in 1993 (29 Year Old), 1994 (30 Year Old), 1995 (31 Year Old) and 2007 (42 Year Old) – one last cask was rediscovered in the darkest corner of the No.1 Vaults. Having been carefully nurtured by Bowmore’s master craftsmen, the last cask of Black Bowmore has all the hallmarks of a collector’s whisky.

Distillery Manager David Turner, whose Grandfather worked on the original bottling over 50 years ago, said “Black Bowmore is one of those whiskies that are spoken about in hushed tones by collectors and aficionados around the world. To have the opportunity to try Black Bowmore now – at the ripe old age of 50 years – is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

The unique environment of Bowmore’s No. 1 Vaults has ensured that this sequestered last cask of Black Bowmore has developed a rich and intense yet perfectly balanced flavor of exceptional depth and quality. After 50 years of meticulous maturation in the vaults, Black Bowmore offers a sublime elegance with flavors of tropical fruit and honeyed black truffle complemented by Bowmore’s signature peat smoke notes. With its exquisite deep black pearl color imparted from the Oloroso sherry casks that it was matured in, Black Bowmore 1964 50 Year Old is beautifully rounded and complex.

A refined whisky that is as beautiful inside as out, Black Bowmore 1964 is presented in a beautiful hand-blown bottle created by renowned sculpting studio Glasstorm with cork tops made by Scottish Silver. Each bottle is filled and sealed by hand and encased in a handmade Scottish oak cabinet created by John Galvin of John Galvin Design.

About the Last Cask of Black Bowmore

The tale of the 159 bottles of the half-century-old last cask of Black Bowmore is as beguiling as it is complex.

On November 5, 1964, seven first-fill Oloroso sherry hogshead casks (3708, 3710, 3713, 3714, 3715, 3716, 3717) were filled to mature meticulously in the No. 1 Vaults.

Every cask and liquid has a special aging relationship and, in October 2002, it was discovered that casks 3708 and 3714 were quickly losing their liquid to the angel’s share. As such, on October 23, 2002, these casks were combined into a single cask to preserve this precious liquid.

In 2007, 827 bottles of Black Bowmore 42 Year Old from casks 3710, 3713, 3715, 3716 and 3717 were released. Fortuitously as it turns out, the previously married cask was overlooked and was left undisturbed in the coolest, darkest corner of the No. 1 Vaults to continue its magical aging process.

There the story ended, or so it was thought, until this last cask of Black Bowmore was rediscovered when trawling through the stock ledgers in 2014.

KINGSBARNS DISTILLERY RELEASES 2 YEARS OLD SPIRIT DRINK 

Kingsbarns Distillery is proud to reveal that a 2 Year Old Spirit Drink has been bottled and is available to purchase exclusively at the Kingsbarns Distillery and Visitor Centre.

Kingsbarns 2 Year Old Spirit Drink is the first release from Kingsbarns to be matured in oak casks however it cannot be called Scotch whisky as it has not been matured for over 3 years. The release, available in a 200ml bottling is a combination of 2 casks that have matured single malt spirit, for over 2 years, in 1st fill ex-bourbon barrels. It has been bottled non chill-filtered and at the natural cask strength of 62.8%abv.

Having previously released in August 2015 Kingsbarns Spirit Drink in a 200ml bottle at the ‘filling strength’ of 63.5% the aim remains to bottle the very first Kingsbarns single malt Scotch whisky as a ‘Founders’ Reserve’ exclusively for the Founders’ Club in 2018. Kingsbarns Founders’ Club membership is still available and can be bought at the Visitor Centre or online at www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com

Distillery Manager Peter Holroyd gave his first impressions of the new bottling at a Kingsbarns Founders’ Club members tour and tasting on Friday July 23^rd “We are delighted to announce the limited release of our 2yr old spirit which can be purchased exclusively here at the distillery. It has a sweet, floral nose and on the palate I get ginger biscuits with a slightly dry finish. Its very exciting to see how our spirit is progressing so far, and with only one more year to go until we can call what we produce Scotch whisky, the team here at Kingsbarns are all looking forward to releasing our first malt in 2018”

William Wemyss on behalf of the family stated “When establishing Kingsbarns distillery great effort was dedicated to acquiring the finest casks for maturing our precious spirit and it is fantastic to see how in just 2 years, the spirit had developed and transformed. Expectation and demand for this exclusive one off bottling will be intense given the continuing popularity of the Kingsbarns new make spirit and the whisky enthusiast’s ever thirsty curiosity regarding the progress of this new Lowland malt.”

The release is limited to just 1,800 200ml bottles and is available for purchase, 1 bottle per person, exclusively at the Kingsbarns Visitor Centre although telephone order will be available to Founders’ Club members in the UK and Europe.

www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com

Twitter: @KingsbarnsDist             Facebook: Kingsbarns Distillery & Visitor Centre

Notes:

• Kingsbarns Distillery was officially opened on St Andrews Day 2014, 30th November. Since opening, the Visitor Centre has been awarded a 4 star visitor attraction award by Visit Scotland.
• Distillery Manager, Peter Holroyd, is a graduate of Heriot Watt University Brewing and Distilling, and was formerly head brewer at craft brewer, Strathavon Ales, near Glasgow.
• The Wemyss family owners are from Scotland and their historic family seat is Wemyss Castle in Fife where they’ve lived since the 1300s.
• The family already own Wemyss Malts which is an independent bottler with a whisky range including the blended malt whisky range comprising: The Spice King, The Peat Chimney and The Hive; single malt single cask bottlings and the blended Scotch named Lord Elcho after one of the Wemyss family’s ancestors; all of which are avilable for tasting and sale at The Kingsbarns Distillery.
• The Wemyss family premium wines and spirits brands also include the premium wine estate of Rimauresq Cru Classé in Cotes de Provence and Darnley’s Gin which will have a new distillery, on the same site as Kingsbarns, open for tours from the 2^nd of July.

Jim Beam and Mila Kunis Kick Off Historic Chicago Cubs Partnership with Limited Edition Jim Beam® “Game 7 Batch”

CHICAGO, – Kicking off their first season as Official Bourbon of the Chicago Cubs, Jim Beam® Bourbon is releasing Jim Beam® “Game 7 Batch,” a limited-edition expression and commemorative label featuring bourbon that completed its 4 years of barrel maturation the history-making date of the Cubs’ Game 7 World Championship game last fall and set aside for release in the 2017 season.

To celebrate this first-ever release of a unique batch of Jim Beam’s 4-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon, global partner Mila Kunis visited Wrigley Field on Saturday, April 15, to throw out the game’s ceremonial first pitch before surprising bar goers with a preview of the product, which will be available in limited quantities at select Chicagoland retailers starting in June 2017.

Jim Beam® Bourbon brought Mila Kunis to The Cubby Bear and other iconic Wrigleyville bars on Saturday April 15, 2017 to surprise fans with a toast to the season and a preview of the new limited edition Jim Beam® “Game 7 Batch,” a hand selected batch of bourbon that completed its 4 years of barrel maturation the history making date of the Cubs’ Game 7 World Championship game last fall.

With appearances at three of the neighborhood’s most iconic Wrigleyville bars, Kunis gave unsuspecting Cubs fans a sneak peek at the limited edition Jim Beam® “Game 7 Batch” bottle and toasted the crowd to another historic season.

“We’re proud to call the Chicago Cubs part of our growing family, so in celebration of the Cubs’ history-making victory, we wanted to release a history-making bourbon for the occasion,” said Jim Beam’s 7th Generation Master Distiller Fred Noe. “This exclusive Jim Beam® ‘Game 7 Batch’ is our gift to the fans in Chicago from our home in Kentucky.”

“We love to see passion between our team and our Legacy Partners, and Jim Beam’s ‘Game 7 Batch’ is a perfect example of two historic brands coming together in the spirit of celebration,” said Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations, Crane Kenney.

Jim Beam “Game 7 Batch,” created with a hint of victory, is aged 4 years; however, this hand-selected batch features liquid that was completed its barrel maturation on the exact day the Cubs won the World Championship, delivering an oak vanilla aroma and a sweet finish that mirrors the ending of last year’s historic season. The product, packaged with a commemorative blue cap, batch sticker and specialty label to celebrate Cubs heritage, has a suggested retail price of $17.99 for 750mL and will be available for purchase in the Chicagoland area this June.

To learn more about Jim Beam’s “Game 7 Batch,” visit www.jimbeam.com and keep up with Jim Beam news throughout the year on Twitter @JimBeam, Instagram @jimbeamofficial and Facebook at http://www.beamsuntory.com/news/press-releases/www.Facebook.com/JimBeam.

ON THE ROAD TO TOKYO:

CHIVAS REGAL ANNOUNCES THE 15 NATIONAL WINNERS

WHO WILL COMPETE IN THIS YEAR’S CHIVAS MASTERS GLOBAL FINAL 

21 June 2017: Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky, has revealed the 15 national winners who will compete to be crowned the 2017 Chivas Masters Global Champion, at the Chivas Masters Global Final taking place next month in Tokyo.

Now in its fourth year, the 2017 Chivas Masters Global Final (1^st – 5^th July) will focus for the first time on the celebrated traditions of Tokyo’s bartending scene – whose unique cocktail customs continue to fascinate and inspire bartenders across the world. Throughout the week, the contestants will take part in a number of individual and team challenges, and will need to showcase both exemplary bartending skills and team spirit to impress the judges.

The 15 finalists, who have each excelled in their national competitions running across four continents, will be hosted in Tokyo by Masahiro Urushido, the first ever Chivas Masters Global Champion. They will be mentored by a distinguished panel of internationally-acclaimed judges, who will share their expertise through a series of inspirational masterclasses. The panel comprises:

• Iain Griffiths, hospitality industry pioneer and co-founder of Mr Lyan Ltd;
• Micah Melton, beverage director at the Alinea Group (Aviary Chicago & NY) and renowned ‘ice chef’;
• Chris Lowder, spirits evangelist and ‘New York’s Rising Star Bartender 2015’ (StarChefs);
• Dré Masso, ex-director of bars for the Potato Head Group in Bali, Jakarta, Singapore and Hong Kong; worldwide Cocktail Mentor and spirit creator
• Rogerio Igarashi Vaz, owner of Tokyo’s Tram & Trench, celebrating the modern interpretation of Japanese bartending

Max Warner, Global Brand Ambassador for Chivas Regal, comments: “Our 15 national winners have already hugely impressed us with both their skill and character, but there’s still much more to do if they want to be crowned our 2017 Chivas Masters Global Champion. The values of community, collaboration and generosity lie at the very heart of this competition, and successful participants must not only impress a world-renowned panel of judges, but demonstrate that they embody these values every step of the way.”

The Chivas Masters cocktail competition is built on Chivas’ belief that great bartending is measured not only by the achievements of an individual, but by the ability to work in harmony with others. The ultimate winner will not only impress with their individual bartending skills, but – crucially – will also prove their ability to work collaboratively with an international bartending team, and inspire others to achieve shared success, through the Chivas Masters Collective team challenge.

Max Warner continues: “I cannot wait to put our contestants through their paces in Tokyo, and see who will walk away with the 2017 title – and beyond that, watch as they, together with their Chivas Masters Collective, take what they have learned to further develop and inspire their bartending communities back home.”

The 2017 Chivas Masters Global Champion will be decided on the evening of Wednesday 5^th July, and will win an all-access, all-expenses-paid trip to Tales of The Cocktail 2017 in New Orleans. The winning Chivas Masters Collective team will walk away with the pinnacle of the range, Chivas Regal The Icon, presented in a bespoke decanter with customised Japanese glassware.

Follow the Finalists

Follow the finalists’ journey in Tokyo and tune in live to the Global Final (05.07.17) through our Instagram Stories: @chivasregal / www.instagram.com/chivasregal%20 

Meet the 2017 Chivas Masters Global Finalists

Sandra Šalatová (Czech Republic)

Prague’s Sandra Šalatová has already achieved the remarkable feat of qualifying for the final by winning her first ever major competition – the Czech Republic regional heat. Sandra now has her eyes firmly set on a new first, becoming the first ever female Chivas Masters Global Champion.

“So far I would consider my biggest achievement to be reaching the final, competing alongside some of the greatest bartenders in the world. I’m going to go one better in Tokyo, as I hope to be crowned the first woman to win the Chivas Masters.” 

Ryan Nightingale (Hong Kong)

Representing Hong Kong, Ryan Nightingale loves the variety of bartending, experienced both through the drinks that he makes, and in the exciting mix of customers coming through the door. With plentiful experience of crafting his own creations, Ryan takes his greatest enjoyment from watching his customers enjoy what he has worked tirelessly to perfect.

“The constant aim for perfection is a cornerstone of the Japanese bar community. I’m heading to Tokyo ready to gain a better understanding of this, which I then hope to express in my final serves.”

Atsushi Suzuki (China)

Having started bartending as a means to an end as a 17 year old, China’s Atsushi Suzuki’s work behind the bar has rapidly developed into a career that has enabled him to travel the world. Runner-up in 2016’s Chivas Masters China heat, Atsushi went one better in 2017, and now has his sights set firmly on Tokyo.

“Teamwork and respect are definitely a must to run a bar well. But for me the most crucial aspect to bar work is the desire to learn.” 

Masato Sakurai (Japan)

Masato Sakurai first encountered cocktail-making after the tragic passing of his grandfather, devoting his time to craft his skill as a bartender to help him deal with the grief. As a proud son of Japan, and with the hometown support fully behind him, Masato is hoping to honour his grandfather’s faith in him by being crowned the 2017 Chivas Masters Global Champion.

“I am obviously determined to be crowned Chivas Masters Global Champion, however the greatest experience that I can take away from the final will be the brotherhood that I will gain with my fellow finalists.”

Benjamin Boyce (United Arab Emirates)

Like many of this year’s finalists, Benjamin Boyce’s first experience of bartending was a chance encounter, which has blossomed into a fruitful and impassioned career. For Benjamin, the key to success for any bar team is the application of the three Ts: training, teamwork and trust.

“The Chivas Masters is an amazing opportunity to learn from the experiences of different bartenders, all coming from a wide range of countries and cultures, to experience Japanese culture, and to have a lot of fun while doing so.”

Hyacinthe Lescoët (France)

Parisian Hyacinthe Lescoët thrives amidst the pressures of his craft, providing everyday creativity in a socially demanding and highly competitive environment. But above all else, the greatest value that Hyacinthe finds in bartending is achieving the appreciation of those around him.

“Great bartending is all about passion and sharing. Once those are instilled in your work, the rest will flow.”

Wouter Bosch (The Netherlands)

Winner of the regional final in The Netherlands, philosophy graduate Wouter Bosch’s love for bartending centres upon the memories and experiences that his drinks create. Rather than be the star of the show himself, Wouter’s bartending style is all about letting the drink do the talking.

“Nothing is as rewarding as having people coming up to the bar and telling you that you’ve made their night. I’m inspired by that, and hope to create many lasting experiences for my guests.”

Adam Schmidt (USA)

Representing the USA, New York native Adam Schmidt enjoys mixing his sense of humour into his drinks. Having previously spent time exploring Barcelona’s vibrant cocktail scene, Adam can’t wait to get out of his comfort zone again in Tokyo.

“What inspired me to be a bartender? As a youngster I had a part-time job dishwashing in a local bar. To me it always looked like the bartenders were having the most fun. I was right.”

Rhys Wilson (United Kingdom)

An actor by trade, the UK’s Rhys Wilson’s bartending style stems from his belief that performance on the stage, and that behind the bar, are not too dissimilar. Rhys is already looking forward to all that he can take away from the experience in Tokyo, especially having the opportunity to collaborate with his fellow finalists.

“A great bar is not just about what’s in the glass, it’s about the whole show. I love taking care of my audience and putting on a great show for them.”

Aloisek Rodríguez Martínez (Cuba)

Winner of the national final in Cuba, Aloisek Rodríguez Martínez is a bartending purist. The art of mixology is Aloisek’s greatest passion, allowing him to showcase his creativity and share the pride that he has for his culture.

“A great bar team is one in which everyone is working for the same purpose and vision, making each individual bartender a complement of the other.”

Abner Barrientos (Puerto Rico)

Having originally taken up bar work to support his studies, Abner Barrientos’ perfectionist qualities were realised through bartending, soon transforming into a passion for the trade. Abner’s flexible and open outlook to his work has enabled him to embrace new cultures and perspectives from all of the customers that he has served on his bartending journey.

“As a bartender, every day is a challenge, however every challenge should be viewed as an opportunity to grow and develop.”

Patryk Biadacz (Poland)

Poland’s Patryk Biadacz place in the final is the culmination of ten years of hard work crafting his bartending skill. Patryk’s passion for the trade stems from his love for every aspect of bar work, and he is eager to prove that in Tokyo.

“Just like the mixing of cocktails, a perfect balance of ingredients is crucial to a great bar team.” 

Daniel Huggins (Germany)

As Germany’s representative in the global final, Daniel Huggins’ love for the craft of cocktail-making is cemented by his passion for hosting – forever seeking to provide the perfect experience for his customers. For Daniel, the camaraderie and respect found within bartending is what makes it so special.

“I want to be known as a bartender with empathy and expertise, always willing to turn your evening into a great experience.”

Roger Grüter (Switzerland)

Hailing from Basel, Roger Grüter is dedicated to perfecting his craft as an expert cocktail-maker, a dream that he hopes will come true in Tokyo. Roger is looking at the final as an opportunity to enhance his bartending skills, taking away all that he can from the much-revered Japanese culture. 

“Attentiveness and authenticity are key ingredients to the cocktail experience. I always work to ensure that my guests leave happier than they came.”

Haydée Barron Flores (Mexico)

With dreams of being considered an ambassador of Mexican bartending, Haydée Barron Flores’ love for her work comes from the creativity that it allows her, and then having the opportunity to share her creations with others and witness the moment that the drinks create first-hand.

“In learning my craft I believe that I have learnt more about myself, my flaws and my strengths. It has all lead me to this moment – the chance to represent my country in the Chivas Masters Global Final.” 

Notes: 

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 Regal 12, Chivas Regal Extra, Chivas Regal Mizunara, Chivas Regal 18, our first blended malt Chivas Regal Ultis, Chivas Regal 25, the pinnacle of the range and ultra-prestige blend Chivas Regal The Icon, and the Global Travel Retail exclusive Chivas Brothers Blend.

www.chivas.com

About Chivas Brothers

Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky and the No.1 Scotch whisky in China; Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky; The Glenlivet, the 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.chivasspirit.com

@ChivasNewsRoom 

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.

Wolfburn Appoints Maverick Drinks as UK Distributor 

Wolfburn Distillery has signed craft spirits specialist Maverick Drinks as its UK distributor. Winner of the 2016 IWSC Spirits Distributor of the Year award, Maverick is the perfect partner for Wolfburn’s award-winning range of single malt scotch whiskies.

‘For Wolfburn it’s a great step forward,’ comments Shane Fraser, distillery manager. ‘We’re hugely proud of our hand-crafted whiskies so it makes a lot of sense to team up with Maverick Drinks, as they’re at the forefront of the spirits revolution in the UK with a genuine focus on craftsmanship and quality.’

The symmetry between Maverick and Wolfburn extends beyond corporate ethos, with both companies having come top in class in recent International Wine & Spirits Competitions: Wolfburn scooped the gold medal at the recent IWSC Hong Kong awards, while Maverick was awarded the prize for IWSC Spirits Distributor of the Year. Wolfburn’s ‘Northland’ expression has now won an unprecedented four consecutive gold medals in international competitions.

‘We’re absolutely thrilled to represent Wolfburn in the UK.’ says Michael Vachon, Maverick Drinks’ Head of Brand Development. ‘Wolfburn have everything we look for in a brand: extraordinary quality, great design, and amazing people. Shane and his team have a burgeoning reputation for making some of the best whisky in the world and I know we’re going to have a great time working together.’

ABOUT WOLFURN: 

The original Wolfburn Distillery was founded just to the west of Thurso by William Smith in 1821. In its day it was one of the largest distilleries in Scotland, producing, according to HMRC records, 28,056 “gallons of proof spirit” in a single year. Taking its name from the stream that provided the water – the Wolf Burn – the distillery operated until around 1870. The reasons for its closure are lost in time, but by 1877 the newly produced Ordnance Survey maps showed it being in ruins.

In 2011 plans were laid to resurrect the old distillery. Construction began in 2012 and in January 2013 the new Wolfburn Distillery commenced production, thereby becoming the most northerly distillery on the Scottish mainland. Situated 300m from the site of the original distillery, the new Wolfburn operates in much the same way as the old: craftsmen use traditional methods to produce fine spirit, which is laid down in best quality oak casks to await the day when it is bottled as single malt scotch whisky. Wolfburn’s single malt scotch whiskies are now available in 24 countries globally.

ABOUT MAVERICK DRINKS:

Established in 2013, Maverick Drinks brings great drinks and craft spirits to the UK. We represent a number of distilleries from the UK, US and Europe and distribute craft and well-sourced spirits throughout the UK. We focus on craft spirits because consumers are increasingly looking for products with provenance, authenticity, and craftsmanship they admire.

Maverick Drinks was awarded IWSC Spirits Distributor of the Year in 2014 and 2016 and our portfolio now includes some of the finest and most award-winning spirits in the world, which we make available through our ever-growing network of partners in the UK: drinks wholesalers, high street outlets, online retailers, and more.

Maverick Drinks continues to lead the UK in distributing craft spirits whilst also working with trade organisations and industry bodies to drive awareness of the global trends in craft distilling.

Wolfburn Distillery, Henderson Park, Thurso, Caithness KW14 7XW

www.wolfburn.com

www.facebook.com/wolfburn

Knob Creek® Bourbon Celebrates 25 Years With Limited Edition Anniversary Release

Clermont, KY (June 15, 2017) – In 1992, Sixth Generation Beam Master Distiller Booker Noe created Knob Creek® Bourbon to restore the standards of pre-prohibition style whiskey, pushing the boundaries of an entire category with the introduction of super-premium, small batch bourbon.

Twenty-five years later, Booker’s son and SeventhGeneration Master Distiller Fred Noe is celebrating this milestone with the launch of an exclusive, limited-edition release ­– Knob Creek® 25^th Anniversary Bourbon. Uniting the signature whiskey making styles of Booker and Fred Noe for the first time, Knob Creek 25^th Anniversary Bourbon is a cask strength and unfiltered¹ single barrel bourbon, aged in barrels for twelve-to-thirteen years and personally selected by Noe for this historic occasion.

“When Dad introduced Knob Creek and the Small Batch Bourbon Collection 25 years ago, he created it with the flavor, care and craftsmanship that defined high-quality, full-flavored bourbon,” said Noe. “I am honored to keep this tradition alive every day, and am proud to celebrate 25 years with our fans by releasing a special product that features Dad’s preferred ‘uncut and unfiltered’ style, combined with my passion for single barrel bourbons.”

With this unique combination, Knob Creek 25^th Anniversary offers fans the truest expression of Knob Creek Bourbon, as close to standing in the rack house as possible. It features slight nuances in proof and tasting notes within each bottle, while still holding true to the brand’s overall taste profile. Each commemorative bottle is presented in a premium, wooden box and features a special label, including a handwritten bottling date and proof.

Knob Creek 25^th Anniversary Bourbon is available nationwide in limited quantities for a suggested retail price of $129.99 for a 750ml bottle. This commemorative release offers the below characteristics, with each bottle’s unique tasting notes varying slightly:

•        Age: Between 12 ­– 13 years
•        Proof: Cask strength varies by barrel, ranging from 120 to 125 proof
•       Color: Deep amber
•       Taste: Each bottle features nuanced variations of deep, full vanilla with a surprisingly sweet and nutty flavor
•        Aroma: Each bottle features nuanced variations of robust vanilla and caramel; slightly smoky, complemented by rich notes of oak
•        Finish: Long and full

In addition to the launch of Knob Creek 25^th Anniversary Bourbon, 2017 proves to be an exciting, milestone year for Knob Creek and its fans. The brand launched a new campaign, titled “This Creek Runs Full,” at the start of the year driven by multiple consumer touchpoints, including print, social and digital media; out-of-home advertising; experiential on- and off-premise activations; and public relations. The brand also recently unveiled a new website, which will be expanded to include an e-commerce page later this summer, featuring merchandise and apparel for consumer purchase. In addition, Knob Creek is excited to collaborate with the Goose Island Beer Company on their Black Friday release of Bourbon County Reserve Brand Stout, aged in Knob Creek bourbon barrels.

For more information about this release or Knob Creek’s 25^th anniversary, please visit the newly updated www.KnobCreek.com or contact beam@wearemultip.ly.

About Knob Creek® Bourbon

Knob Creek® Bourbon has been making extraordinary full-flavored bourbon with intriguing taste and bottled in unique flask shaped packaging for 25 years. Aged in new, charred American Oak barrels and bottled at an honest 100 proof, Knob Creek® Bourbon upholds the standard for what great bourbon ought to be with its big, full signature flavor. Launched in early 1992, at a time when the term “super-premium” bourbon didn’t exist, Knob Creek® Bourbon is named after the small town in Kentucky where President Abraham Lincoln was born. In recent years, Knob Creek has expanded its portfolio releasing Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve (120 proof / 60% alcohol by volume) in 2011 and Knob Creek Rye (100 proof / 50% alcohol by volume) in 2012 and Knob Creek Smoked Maple (90 proof / 45% alcohol by volume) in 2013.

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.

 PRINCE HARRY BRINGS SENTEBALE ROYAL SALUTE POLO CUP TO ASIA

Prince Harry takes to the polo field at the 2017 Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup cheered on by crowds in Singapore

Last week under a blistering Singaporean sun and in front of a crowd of over 300 guests, Prince Harry took to the field for the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup to raise funds for his charity, Sentebale. The event took place at the Singapore Polo Club and brought together distinguished guests who showed their support for the charity’s work helping youth affected by the AIDS epidemic in Southern Africa.

Prior to the game commencing, guests gathered for national anthems and a minute’s silence in remembrance of those affected by the London attacks on Saturday evening.

Later an exciting match ensued; cheered on by the crowds, Sentebale ISPS Handa team clinched victory over St Regis team for the second year running by a lead of three points. The winning ball was struck by Prince Harry in the final chukka of the closely fought game, giving Sentebale ISPS Handa team the resulting advantage. The match also featured valiant performances from Royal Salute World Polo Ambassador Malcolm Borwick and Sentebale and St. Regis Ambassador Nacho Figueras.

Sentebale’s flagship fundraising event has been running for eight years taking place in different locations around the world. 2017 sees the first time the prestigious event has hit the shores of South East Asia, and Singapore Polo Club has had extended history of Royal Patronage, with Edward VIII, The Duke of Edinburgh and the present Prince of Wales all playing there. This year is the seventh consecutive year of the partnership between Sentebale and British luxury whisky Royal Salute. To date the event has raised over £4.5million for Sentebale’s work providing care, education and critical psychosocial support to children and adolescents coming to terms with living with HIV in Lesotho and Botswana, two countries with the world’s second and third highest infection rates and where the burden of the HIV epidemic remains.

At last year’s Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, hosted in Palm Beach, Florida, Prince Harry announced the charity’s plans to expand its programme of psychosocial support to young people living with HIV into Botswana. Since then, Sentebale has supported over 2,800 children and adolescents living with HIV across Lesotho and Botswana through monthly Saturday clubs and camps.

This year, speaking at the post-tournament dinner at the St Regis Singapore, Prince Harry spoke about Sentebale’s newly developed Let Youth Lead programme aimed at encouraging all youth in sub-Saharan Africa to know and manage their HIV status by 2020, which Prince Seeiso launched at the charity’s first youth summit in Lesotho in April this year.

Prince Harry added; “Through youth-led campaigning, training and advocacy, the initiative allows young people affected by HIV/AIDS to be heard. We hope this will create a platform where the needs of young people in the region are listened to – from the need for adolescent-friendly health services, more trained counselors in rural areas and better sexual reproductive health education in schools. Young people know what works for them and their friends, so we must listen and take note.”

Peter Moore, Global Brand Director of Royal Salute, added “It is incredibly inspiring to see what a huge impact the charity Sentebale has made on vulnerable young people in Southern Africa affected by HIV and AIDS. After seven years as title partners for the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, we are proud to say our donations of more than £1.5 million have helped to support the important work that Sentebale delivers to young people in Southern Africa.”

Cathy Ferrier, CEO of Sentebale said “We are so grateful to all our generous sponsors who continue to help youth affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Southern Africa. Adolescent deaths and new infections continue to rise amongst this age group in the region, so it is vital that we can continue to deliver much-needed care, education and critical psychosocial support, encouraging them to know and safely manage their HIV status.

“We have ambitious plans to be operating in five countries in the African region by 2020 and the funds raised through our annual flagship event remain key to us achieving these goals. Thank you to our long-standing partner Royal Salute, to the Singapore Polo Club for hosting us today, and to all of our dedicated sponsors, ISPS Handa, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, BMW and British Airways who have each contributed to making the day a great success.”

Malcolm Borwick, Royal Salute World Polo Ambassador and Captain of the Sentebale ISPS Handa team commented: “It has been a great honour to play at the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup this year alongside Prince Harry and other distinguished players. I have been around the globe with the Royal Salute World Polo series and this tournament remains the most inspirational event I take part in due to the overwhelming generosity of the crowd and sponsors. Over time, it has been a privilege to see Sentebale grow in part due to the charitable efforts of both Royal Salute and the sport.”

To raise further funds for the charity, bids opened for a one-of-a-kind Royal Salute auction lot. The Master Blender’s flagon of new limited edition Royal Salute 21 Year Old Polo Edition whisky has been donated to the auction by Royal Salute’s Director of Blending Sandy Hyslop, and is being housed in a bespoke hand-illustrated wrap. Created by British artist Natalie Reid, the exquisite artwork wrap depicts some of the milestones achieved by Sentebale during the seven-year partnership with Royal Salute. The auction continues online with a reserve price of £7,000 until Wednesday 14^th June to allow those not in attendance the chance to support the charity and own a whisky unlike any other in the world.

To place your bid for the exclusive auction lot, visit www.royalsaluteauction.com

For more information about Sentebale, please sign up to receive the charity’s news at http://www.sentebale.org/ or follow the journey and be a part of the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup using the hashtag #SentebaleRS17.

SINGAPORE – JUNE 05: HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, third from right, with his team at the Singapore Polo Club in this 1965 photo made available by the Singapore Polo Club. Fifty-two years later his grandson Prince Harry played at the same grounds in the 2017 Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup which is held to raise funds for Prince Harry’s charity Sentebale, which supports vulnerable children and young people living with HIV in Lesotho and Botswana.(Photo made available by the Singapore Polo Club)

POLO MATCH REPORT

PRINCE HARRY & TEAM WIN SENTEBALE ROYAL SALUTE POLO CUP 2017

SENTEBALE 5 – 2 ST. REGIS

Prince Harry’s visit to Singapore culminated in triumph at the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup which took place at Singapore Polo Club, Singapore on Monday 5^th June.

Over 300 international and Singaporean VIPs including Karen Gillan, who presented the Sentebale Captain, Malcolm Borwick with the trophy, gathered to watch the Sentebale team play the St. Regis team, captained by Nacho Figueras, with a final score of five to two.

The four chukka game demonstrated the immense strength and skill of the ‘sport of kings’ with best playing pony awarded to Caldera, played by Nacho Figueras.

Match Report

With a dazzling display that graced the grand occasion, the Sentebale ISPS Handa team won the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup by defeating the St. Regis team in a game that demonstrated polo at its best.

The game inspired memorable performances from Satinder Garcha, who opened the score for Sentebale and saw Prince Harry scoring two points during the third and fourth chukkas. St. Regis team players, Patrick Furlong and Giles Twiss, showed great skills by scoring the two goals for the team lead by Nacho Figueras.

During the first chukka Santinder Garcha, president of the Singapore Polo Club who joined the Sentebale ISPS Handa team scored a 40 yard line penalty with a well-aimed shot putting Sentebale’s team up 1-0.  The first play of the second chukka saw Satinder Garche double the lead in near identical fashion.

Malcolm Borwick, Captain of the Sentebale ISPS Handa team and Royal Salute Ambassador, extended Sentebale’s team lead in the third chukka, which was quickly followed by a goal from Patrick Furlong putting the St. Regis team on the board.

Prince Harry’s afternoon then got better with an immediate goal following St. Regis successful play. In the last chukka, which stated a score of 4-1 in favour of Sentebale, Giles Twiss from the Singapore Polo Club, cut the deficit to just two. However, there was a quick response from the Sentebale team who saw Prince Harry score his second goal of the day.

The Sentebale Royal Salute cup 2017, ended on a final score of 5-2 with the Sentebale’s team lead by Malcolm Borwick raising the trophy. The game was played in good spirit with a good end to end action keeping all guests entertained.

Peter Moore, Director of Royal Salute said: “We’re honoured to support Sentebale for the seventh consecutive year. It was great to witness such a well-played game, with the Prince’s team taking the Cup. 

Notes:

About Sentebale

Sentebale is a charity co-founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006. The charity aims to rewrite the future for the impoverished population of Lesotho, a small, landlocked country in southern Africa, providing the thousands of children and young people affected by HIV/AIDS with vital access to care, education and critically psychosocial support.

In 2015, Sentebale announced plans to expand into several southern Africa countries by 2020, delivering psychosocial support to 10 to 19 year olds who were struggling to come to terms with living with HIV. In December 2016, Sentebale launched the first weeks of camp in Botswana, providing psychosocial support to 150 young people. Additionally, during the financial year ending on 31st August 2016, the charity in partnership with the Ministry of Health delivered adolescent-friendly HIV testing and counselling services to over 16,500 people. That year, Sentebale more than doubled the number of children and adolescents attending residential camp at the newly opened ’Mamohato Children’s Centre in Lesotho to over 1,000 children and increased the number of children attending Saturday clubs by 18%.

Despite Sentebale’s progress to date, there remain many more adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa unaware of their HIV status and afraid to get tested. In line with UNAIDS Fast-track targets, Sentebale’s new Let Youth Lead advocacy programme aims to encourage all youth in sub-Saharan Africa to know and manage their HIV status by 2020. Through youth-led campaigning and advocacy, the ambition is to allow the voices of youth affected by HIV and AIDS to be heard and to change adult attitudes to these young people. The programme will also address the lack of youth-friendly health services and sexual reproductive health taught in schools, and will aim to strengthen leaders’ commitment to help young people affected by HIV/AIDS.

Sign up to received news from Sentebale at http://www.sentebale.org/

Twitter/Instagram: @Sentebale

Facebook: SentebaleOfficial

About Royal Salute

Royal Salute is a careful blend of malt and grain whiskies – with its youngest blend matured for a minimum of 21 years. Created to mark the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the 21 gun salute that honoured her, the brand is steeped in tradition and proud of its royal lineage, but is firmly engaged in the modern world by constantly pushing the art of blending into new, creative and ambitious forms. Royal Salute is deeply involved in polo – the world’s oldest surviving team sport and a game that’s expanding in the modern era. Polo is a noble game of honour, skill, integrity and respect – all values inherent in Royal Salute. The brand’s involvement in polo dates back around 10 years and today features a global programme of events spanning four continents including the annual Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, one of 15 international tournaments the brand sponsors around the world, from the UK and the USA through Argentina and China to Korea.

Follow Royal Salute at www.royalsalute.com

Instagram | @royalsalute

Twitter |@royalsalute

Facebook | RoyalSalutePolo

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.chivasspirit.com 

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,682 million in FY16. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin 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.

About BMW Asia

BMW Asia (http://www.bmw-asia.com/) oversees 13 markets across East Asia. It plays the role of a business incubator for the importer markets and introduces product and technology that best caters to customers’ needs in this part of the world.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BMWAsiaInsider/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-asia

Contact: BMWAsiaCorpAffairs@bmw.com 

About ISPS Handa

The International Sports Promotion Society (ISPS) supports projects and activities that contribute to social welfare and international co-operation through the promotion of sports. Its founder, Dr Haruhisa Handa, believes in the power of sport to create hope, break down educational and cultural barriers and to inspire people. ISHS Handa has supported the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup for the last 3 years.

www.ispsintetnational.com

About Singapore Polo Club

The Singapore Polo Club is one of the oldest sporting and social clubs in Singapore. Founded in 1886 by the officers of the King’s Own Regiment, the 1st Battalion, the Club has a distinguished heritage and remains rich in its traditions of camaraderie and sportsmanship.

www.singaporepoloclub.org

About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts

Combining classic sophistication with a modern sensibility, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, Inc., is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at 40 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Since the opening of the first St. Regis hotel in New York City over a century ago by John Jacob Astor IV, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by signature St. Regis Butler Service. For more information and new openings, visit stregis.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

www.starwoodhotels.com

It’s a premium world for booming whisky …or should that be whiskey?

Bordeaux, June 19, 2017 – Whisky is a world of premium opportunities at Vinexpo Bordeaux 2017, whether your brand is spelled without an ‘e’ (it’s Scotch) or with one. But especially for a new generation of distillers and whiskies with unusual expressions.

With whisk(e)y distilleries working flat out from Japan to Scotland, and new distilleries being built at a fast rate from Ireland to Kentucky, aspiring consumers in regions like Asia and Africa are queuing up to buy the malted spirit.

Scotland, global leader and producer of the world’s largest whisky brands marketed by multinationals such as Diageo and Pernod Ricard, is riding a wave of year-on-year growth. Sales of standard and premium Scotch whisky are poised to reach 87.7 million 9 litre cases by the end of this year. By 2020 they could reach nearly 94 million cases, forecasts Vinexpo data produced for the Bordeaux-based wine and spirit exhibitions group by IWSR.

World sales of all whiskies are bigger still. The new distillers are seeking a slice of this market. And they take as their models the achievements of brands from countries like Japan, Taiwan, India. Ten years ago whiskies from these countries were treated with disdain, said one of the new distillers. Now they are covered in international awards and fetching super-premium prices.

It is no surprise that among the 2,300 exhibitors at Vinexpo Bordeaux whiskey distillers are well represented. The presence of buyers from 150 countries worldwide are their lure to this very international exhibition.

Take Ireland’s Walsh Distillery producing The Irishman range of single malts and a brand called Writers’ Tears which evokes the country’s literary history. Built in 2007 the distillery produces 800,000 bottles at present. A new distillery will open soon with capacity to produce 8.5 million bottles.

Connor Booth, a sales executive for the Irish brands exhibiting at the fair says, “The interest is just so big. Asia and Africa are among the leaders, but the Middle East and Latin America also want to drink whiskey. Our brands are in 45 markets and Irish whiskey is one of the fastest growing in the world.”

Booth adds that the major growth sector is premium brands. This is born out by other exhibitors from around the world who have whiskey ambitions.

Among the most audacious is the plan to build two distilleries in a WW2 bunker on the Garonne river. Called Moon Harbour, a local name for the port at Bordeaux, entrepreneurs Jean-Philippe Bellanger and Yves Medina have invested 3 million euros to make malt whisky using local barley.

They plan to produce 200,000 bottles a year. Their target markers are “countries that like whiskey: France, Belgium, China, Brazil, Taiwan, the USA”. They start production this August, but in the meantime are selling two whiskies made in Scotland. One is finished in red wine casks from a famous chateau, and a third is corn whisky distilled from local maize.

The whisky to emerge from their still later shortly will be premium priced. “We are not interested in making cheap whisky, says M. Bellanger. “It must be good quality – and it must be fun or we don’t do it.”

The question remains, why is the world so interested in Premium whisk(e)y?

Mark Newton, MD of Whyte and McKay Private labels says; “Two words say why: craft and authenticity. That is what younger drinkers seek. They also want malt whisky. But let’s not forget that 90% of Scotch whisky global sales are for blends and standard brands.”

Scotch whisky is the beginning for many of the new whiskies. Black Mountain, a range of three Scotch blends, is aged in Armagnac barrels. Black Mountain has already won three international awards.  Co-founder Laure Maurin says that next year they plan to open a distillery in France.

The new distillers are clearly innovative. For example, age statements are the industry marks of premium quality. That might be about to change according to Earl Hewlette of Terressentia. Owner of O Z Tyler Bourbon from Kentucky.

Earl has patented an ageing process that has reduced the time spirit spent in barrel – during which the spirit refines and becomes less harsh- to as little as six months. The cost saving is huge. In January he relaunches O Z Tyler as a Bourbon aged using the Terrapure system. On the bottle Terrapure commands as much space as the name. It has the potential to shake-up whisky production radically.

In the meantime, the new distillers are a niche suppler of a niche market. Aspiring and high net wealth drinkers in other parts of the world still associate Scotland with whisky.

“This morning we met a buyer from Azerbaijan who wanted 12, 15 and 18 year-old Scotch whiskies for high income folk,” says Graham Taylor, MD of Glasgow Whisky, a bulk supplier. “The Ukraine is doing well too. The market is buoyant. Our Strathalan blend does well in supermarkets where people associate Scotch whisky with quality.”

For more information visit vinexpo.com

New Packaging Features Work Of Calgary-Based Artist Sheila Schaetzle

TORONTO, ON – Known for its diverse portfolio of complex yet approachable whiskies, Forty Creek is commemorating Canada’s 150th anniversary with the release of a special, limited-edition run of its artfully crafted Forty Creek Confederation Oak blend. Forty Creek Whisky has called Grimsby, Ontario, its home for over 20 years. The area is also known for being one of the most historically significant areas from the pre-Confederation era. Grimsby – formerly known as ‘The Forty’, is nestled in a region known as home to some of the most impactful battles fought during The War of 1812. These events would ultimately form the fabric of what would become our great country, while also defining the Canadian frontier.

As a means of celebrating both the formidable spirit of the early settlers that established such a significant portion of Canadian history, and the country’s monumental 150th birthday, Forty Creek invited the Canadian artist community to share their visions for a new package that would showcase the Grimsby region and Canada’s rich cultural heritage. Gracing the package of this special edition of Forty Creek Confederation Oak is a spectacular piece titled, To the Confederation, by Calgary, Alberta, artist Sheila Schaetzle. An elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists, Sheila’s artwork has been exhibited across the country.

@WeAreFortyCreek celebrates #Canada150 with a special edition of its #ConfederationOak #whisky

“We received many impressive submissions from artists across the country and we are very appreciative of the enthusiasm each artist demonstrated,” says John Andersen, Senior Brand Manager, North American Whiskies. “We wanted to celebrate this monumental Canadian anniversary in a way that fully encompassed the essence of Forty Creek as a true leader within the whisky category. Sheila’s submission did an outstanding job in artfully combining the richness of Canada’s history and the important role it plays in the Forty Creek Confederation Oak whisky.”

“To honour our heritage, I wanted to emphasize the strengths of the Canadian White Oak,” says Sheila Schaetzle. “The black and white theme – the cool haze of the tree tops, puts the focus on the soldiers. It demonstrates a strong foundation kept simple, and something that is uniquely Canadian.”

Aged in barrels crafted from locally-sourced Canadian oak trees first rooted at the time of Confederation, Forty Creek Confederation Oak pays homage to the series of events that helped shape the foundation of Canada. A full-bodied whisky, the Forty Creek Confederation Oak has an ever-evolving aroma that starts with layers of maple, raisin, vanilla and fig, followed by spice and orange blossoms. As the whisky is enjoyed, flavours of vanilla and buttercream emerge on the palate with pepper spice framed by oak, walnut and smoke that leads to an exceptional, long-lingering finish. With its excellent balance and vibrant flavours, Forty Creek Confederation Oak is truly an icon of Canadian whisky that is best when sipped and cherished.

Notes:
*Product availability and pricing may vary depending on region.
• Forty Creek Confederation Oak- pricing from $69.95, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia.

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.