Port X Whisky: The Dalmore Releases Unique Vintage Port Collection 

Luxury single malt The Dalmore has released a three-bottle, limited edition collection of whiskies matured in vintage port casks.

In the year that The Dalmore’s legendary Master Distiller Richard Paterson celebrates his 50^th year in the whisky industry, The Vintage Port Collection is the latest in a long line of ground-breaking releases from the iconic whisky producer.

Crafted using the finest aged Port pipes from renowned winemakers W&J Graham’s, Paterson’s unrivalled knowledge of the cask maturation process has been applied to full effect in creating a unique collection of port-finished vintages from 1996, 1998 and 2001.

Reflecting the pioneering heritage and artistry which has helped The Dalmore define the luxury single malt category, The Dalmore Vintage Port Collection is matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, creating a pristine canvas for Richard to create this uniquely finished collection.

Tawny Port pipes from Graham’s vineyard in Douro, Portugal add the finishing touches to the collection, using pipes reserved exclusively for The Dalmore. Graham’s signature port palate perfectly matches the depth and quality of The Dalmore’s complex new make spirit, enabling the spirit to be matured for longer in a greater variety of casks.

The collection’s oldest expression is the 1996 Port Vintage. A whisky which is indulgent and smooth, it offers a palate of Gingerbread and passion fruit, with a finish of pineapple, marzipan and blood oranges.

The 1998 Port Vintage comprises a fruity palate of honeyed bananas, blueberries and grapes, with Damson plums and dark treacle providing a depth to the finish. The final member of the collection is the 2001 Port Vintage which offers a spicier aroma and a palate of morello cherries.  A coffee finish is accompanied with hints of Turkish delight and figs.

The collection will be available to purchase from selected whisky retailers.

Richard Paterson, Master Distiller at The Dalmore added: “For me, port and whisky complement each other perfectly, with port providing a fruitier palate to The Dalmore’s deep and complex new make spirit.  Being able to finish these new releases in pipes of Graham’s port, which are some of the finest quality, during my anniversary year is incredibly exciting. I’m delighted to be able to continue our founder’s vision of creating new expressions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the luxury single malt category.” 

Notes

Tasting Notes: Vintage 1996

Aroma: Blackcurrants, rich coffee beans and praline chocolate

Palate:  Gingerbread, Damson plums and passion fruit

Finish: Caramelised pineapple, Sanguinello blood oranges and marzipan

ABV: 45%

RRP: £450  

Tasting Notes: Vintage 1998

Aroma: English marmalade, Satsuma plums, vanilla and blackcurrants

Palate:  Honeyed bananas, blueberries and grape

Finish: Damson plums, dark treacle and Christstollen cake

ABV: 44%

RRP: £200 

Tasting Notes: Vintage 2001

Aroma: Exotic spices, cinnamon, raisins and tangerines dipped in chocolate

Palate:  Caramelised peaches, freshly baked bread and Morello cherries

Finish: Turkish delight, figs and coffee

ABV: 40%

RRP: £150 

The Dalmore 

The Dalmore is the definitive luxury malt, since 1839.

Founded by Sir Alexander Matheson, a restless entrepreneur and international businessman, The Dalmore was born with a different purpose, to go above and beyond to create luxurious single malt whisky unlike any other.

An unbroken chain of exceptional whisky makers have been fulfilling Sir Alexander’s vision ever since, pioneering multi cask maturation over 100 years before this was commonly adopted by others in the industry.

Richard Paterson has been Master Distiller at The Dalmore for nearly 50 years.  The whiskies he has created during his tenure have help Richard to achieve global celebrity status.  He is the man who, with The Dalmore, created the category of super luxury single malt, a category he continues to define to this very day.

CLYDEBANK ACTING STUDENT ON TAKING CENTRE STAGE WITH SUPPORT FROM CHIVAS BROTHERS’ BURSARY

I feel so lucky to have received one of the first grants available as part of Chivas Brothers’ bursary programme – it couldn’t have come at a better time. I had just scooped a place on the BA Acting for Stage and Screen Course, delivered by Edinburgh Napier and Queen Margaret universities, and I was really looking forward to starting the next chapter of my career.

However, being a drama student, I knew that there would be extra costs involved especially for big showcases and assessments where you need to buy costumes, travel to different venues and book rehearsal space. That’s when my grandad, Martin, suggested I apply for Chivas Brothers’ bursary scheme. He works in engineering at Chivas Brothers’ Strathclyde Distillery and had seen a poster about the bursary scheme at work.

The bursary is delivered in partnership with the Scottish International Education Trust (SIET) and gives employees and their families the opportunity to receive financial support for further education or training. I couldn’t believe it when I was awarded the maximum individual grant of £2,000. It’s enabled me to achieve so much more this year, from purchasing booklists for assessments, to covering the cost of additional classes.

I’ve also been able to establish a new theatre production company called Amplify with some of the other students on my course. We put on an amazing production of Dr Faustus in March and the extra financial support helped to buy books and attend talks on the supernatural so I could really bring the part to life. We’re also hoping to put on another show at the Fringe Festival next year so some of the bursary will help to fund rehearsals and travel.

Now I’m about to head into my final year which is when all of our major productions will take place. I know it’s going to be a really busy time for me and that there will be lots more work to do, so I’ve saved half of the grant to help me achieve my goals.

I’m really looking forward to the future and I’m really grateful to Chivas Brothers for helping me to begin my acting career. The bursary has provided invaluable support and I urge anyone else who needs help funding further education or training to apply.

SURREY STUDENT STEPS BACK IN TIME WITH CHIVAS BROTHERS’ BURSARY FUNDING

I’ve been fascinated by the literature of ancient Greece and Rome from a young age and was eager to pursue this further when accepted to study Classics at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge. Despite being incredibly taxing, the course has enabled me to explore a huge range of texts in the original Latin and Greek, improving my language skills and expanding my interests. The philosophy and history of the Classical era also provide insight into the modern world and demonstrate the continued relevance of the subject that I study with so much passion.

However, when the time came to fill out the financial forms before the start of term I naturally felt somewhat apprehensive. The university estimates that the maintenance costs for a year of study are around £8,500, so I had to find a way to cover the shortfall between that and my student loan. The Chivas Brothers’ bursary scheme was suggested as a solution by my father, David.

The bursary is delivered in partnership with the Scottish International Education Trust (SIET) and gives employees of Chivas Brothers and their families the opportunity to receive financial support for further education or training. I couldn’t believe it when I was awarded the maximum individual grant of £2,000. It has been fantastic at facilitating my first year at Cambridge, enabling me to purchase all the necessary books and resources, as well as relieving some of the inevitable pressure that comes when first moving away from home.

On top of helping to fund my studies, the grant has enabled me to take part in extra-curricular activities too. They are such a big part of student life at Cambridge and having that extra financial support meant I was able to attend the women’s rugby tour in Paris earlier this year. It was such an amazing experience that wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Chivas Brothers. I’d definitely recommend the bursary scheme to others who are worried about funding further education or training.

LINWOOD AERONAUTICAL STUDENT ON LAUNCHING A CAREER WITH SUPPORT FROM CHIVAS BROTHERS’ BURSARY SCHEME

It was a real milestone to secure a place on the Aircraft Engineering HNC (Higher National Certificate) course at Ayrshire College. It’s such a good course and gives you a really strong understanding of the aerospace industry.

My only worry was about the costs of travel for the one-hour commute from my home in Linwood to the college in Ayr. That’s when my mum, Jacqueline, who works as a payroll analyst at Chivas Brothers’ Paisley site, encouraged me to apply for Chivas Brothers’ bursary programme.

It’s delivered in partnership with the Scottish International Education Trust (SIET) and gives employees and their families the opportunity to receive financial support for further education or training. I couldn’t believe it when I was awarded a £1,000 grant. The bursary has been a real lifeline this year as it has allowed me to focus on my studies.

I’ve particularly enjoyed the practical element of the course as you’re able to get real life experience on how aircraft systems work. For example, as part of our aerodynamics class we were able work on a piece of wing from an aircraft to make it more efficient. We also have a wind tunnel on site where we can test technologies.

Now, I’m really looking forward to progressing onto the Aircraft Engineering HND (Higher National Diploma) course, where I’ll be able to specialise even further. This will take me one step closer to securing a place at university, and ultimately a job as an aeronautical engineer. I feel really lucky to have been one of the first to receive the grant and cannot urge people enough to apply, it’s an amazing opportunity which helps you to further your education and learning

CHIVAS REGAL RAISES A TOAST TO ATSUSHI SUZUKI 

CHINA BARTENDER CROWNED 2017 CHIVAS MASTERS GLOBAL CHAMPION IN TOKYO WITH MEXICO AND HONG KONG COMPLETING THE WINNING COLLECTIVE TEAM 

Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky, has crowned Atsushi Suzuki from the Sober Company in Shanghai, China, the 2017 Chivas Masters Global Champion. Over a challenging five-day finale in Tokyo, Japan, Atsushi overcame strong competition from 14 of the world’s most skilled bartenders and led the winning Chivas Masters Collective team to victory, before being declared the overall champion.

The fourth Chivas Masters Global Final required the 15 national winners to showcase the Chivas Regal values of brotherhood, collaboration and generosity. Atsushi impressed the expert panel of judges by expressing these core principles as he proved the outstanding contestant in what was a highly captivating and memorable final, culminating in the awards ceremony at the MIXX Bar & Lounge at the ANA InterContinental Tokyo.

A Japanese native himself, Atsushi fully embraced the traditions of Japanese bartending culture throughout a week of individual and team challenges, which included four individual drinks-making rounds. Atsushi’s winning team drinks ritual was The Double Talk, which was made using Chivas Regal 12, and presented with a focus on Japanese craftsmanship, kind service and attention to detail. Inspired by the way in which great drinks can bring people together and cross language barriers, he collaborated with his Mexican and Hong Kong team-mates, and was mentored by hospitality industry pioneer and team sensei Iain Griffiths, to devise a ritual which ensured the drink was designed to be shared, and allowed the drink to be adapted and personalised for different countries around the world.

As the newly crowned 2017 Chivas Masters Global Champion, Atsushi has won an all-access, all-expenses-paid trip to Tales of The Cocktail 2017 in New Orleans. The winning Chivas Masters Collective team led by Atsushi – comprising Mexico’s Haydée Barron Flores and Ryan Nightingale from Hong Kong – walked away with the pinnacle of the range, Chivas Regal The Icon, presented in a bespoke decanter with customised Japanese glassware.

Upon being crowned champion, Atsushi commented: “Wow. It is such an honour to receive this – and in my home town too. I feel like it’s a win for Japan as well as for China. And of course it’s not just for me, but for my awesome team of Haydée and Ryan, and my sensei, Iain. I’ve found friends for the rest of my life through the Chivas Masters – and I’ve learnt how to be a better bartender too.”

Max Warner, Global Brand Ambassador for Chivas Regal, commented from Tokyo: “The Chivas Masters Global Final has again shown the world the wonderful values and principles that great bartending can harness. Atsushi fully took the Chivas Regal spirit of generosity and collaboration with him into the final, which was the eventual point of difference in a very tough field – alongside, of course, some spectacular bartending skills.

“Beyond the serve itself, teamwork and collaboration are just as crucial to the craft of drinks-making, and we have witnessed that here today, and throughout the entire contest. That is why we are also delighted to honour the entire winning Chivas Masters Collective, who helped lead our champion to victory and demonstrated that success really does taste better shared.”

The 2017 Chivas Masters Global Final was host to a distinguished panel of internationally acclaimed judges: Iain Griffiths, hospitality industry pioneer and co-founder of Mr Lyan Ltd; Micah Melton, beverage director at the Alinea Group and renowned ‘ice chef’; Chris Lowder, ‘New York’s Rising Star Bartender’ in 2015; Dré Masso, ex-director of bars for the Potato Head Group in Bali, Jakarta, Singapore and Hong Kong; and Rogerio Igarashi Vaz, owner of Tokyo’s Tram & Trench. Each not only scored the finalists, but also shared their insights and expertise through a series of inspirational masterclasses over the course of the week.

The evening also saw the first ever Chivas Masters Global Champion, Masa Urushido, honoured as a Grand Master, in his native Japan.

Atsushi Suzuki’s winning drinks ritual:

THE DOUBLE TALK

40ml Chivas Regal 12

20ml Campari

20ml Bianco Vermouth

Garnished with Matcha Tea Salt – or customised to your country

Stirred and served over block ice in a rocks glass, with a side serve for sharing

The Chivas Masters Collective teams:

Team leader: Atsushi Suzuki, China

Team member: Haydée Barron Flores, Mexico

Team member: Ryan Nightingale, Hong Kong

Team leader: Hyacinthe Lescoët, France

Team member: Daniel Huggins, Germany

Team member: Patryk Biadacz, Poland

Team leader: Masato Sakurai, Japan

Team member: Sandra Šalatová, Czech Republic

Team member: Aloisek Rodríguez Martínez, Cuba

Team leader: Roger Grüter, Switzerland

Team member: Abner Barrientos, Puerto Rico

Team member: Wouter Bosch, The Netherlands

Team leader: Adam Schmidt, USA

Team member: Benjamin Boyce, United Arab Emirates

Team member: Rhys Wilson, United Kingdom

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.