BENROMACH CELEBRATES GLOBAL SUCCESS WITH EXCLUSIVE VINTAGE SINGLE CASK

A Speyside distillery has launched an intriguing, single cask single malt whisky to its Heritage range to celebrate its growing global popularity; Benromach 1975.

With an outturn of only 162 bottles available worldwide, Benromach 1975 (ABV 49.9%), cask number 3434, is a rich and full-bodied, dark golden malt.  Matured in a carefully selected refill American Hogshead, this single malt whisky has hints of white pepper, cocoa and dried tobacco.

David King, International Sales Director, explains: “Benromach’s global popularity is growing dramatically and the brand is now exported to more than 40 countries around the world, with sales increasing by 23% in the last twelve months alone.

“Our previous Benromach vintage exclusives have been incredibly successful, with vintages from 1972, 1973 and 1974 selling quickly and we look forward to continuing this success with the launch of the 1975 vintage.

“Our exclusive Heritage single malts celebrate different aspects of Benromach’s history and traditions. After 41 years in a carefully selected refill American Hogshead, the character is both unpredictable and intriguing.  I’m confident that whisky fans will be eager to savour this precious single malt that comes steeped in Benromach’s history.”

The rare Speyside single malt, which was distilled before the Urquhart family, the current owners of Benromach, took the reins and brought Benromach Distillery back to life, is presented in a bespoke decanter-style bottle with the contours and copper-colour of the neck and shoulder line depicting Benromach Distillery’s stills.

The wooden presentation box is inspired by the home of Benromach, reflecting the copper of the stills, as well as the dark, grained wood of the original washbacks and the white of the lime-washed distillery walls.

A beautifully written, hardback book accompanies the whisky and delves into Benromach’s history, as well as providing whisky fans with some fascinating stories about the craftsman who, for generations, have tended to the spirit. Former Brewer Tom Anderson, who still lives in a cottage at the distillery, was one of the men to witness the filling of the last casks at Benromach, and proudly signed his name on the wall of the filling store whilst former malt man and warehouseman, Willie McArthur, was responsible for tending to the precious casks.

The limited edition Benromach 1975 is available from specialist whisky retailers.  The UK RRP is £1,250, with RRP globally varying depending on local taxes and duty.

For more information on Benromach, and to explore the wide range of expressions available, please visit http://www.benromach.com/. 

Notes

Tasting notes

Pour your dram of Benromach 1975, cask number 3434, and prepare your senses to relish an unforgettable experience.

First, lift your glass to the light and appreciate the beautiful rich gold colour created by lingering for 41 years in a single Refill American hogshead as the whisky grew and matured in character. Take a short inhalation, savouring the aromas without water. Enjoy the sweet honeycomb, toasted malt and luscious apricot infused with notes of warm ginger and fresh citrus. Underlying all these is a delicate hint of sugared almond.

Now take a sip. At first, you may taste a delicate sweetness, with hints of white pepper, dried tobacco and dark cocoa. These evolve into a medley of mature oak flavours, leading to a rich, smooth smoky finish. Add a few drops of water and take time to enjoy the nose as it develops… subtle floral hints follow the fragrant notes of sweet candied peel and honey. Now lift it to your lips and enjoy a slow sip. Smooth peppery and zesty orange notes emerge, complemented by a hint of pear. Finally, a subtle leather undertone combines with a fresh menthol edge and a trace of smoke on the finish. Sublime.

Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when leading whisky specialists Gordon & MacPhail purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, Gordon & MacPhail decided to create a classic Speyside single malt – a style that draws its influence from Speyside whiskies pre-1960s.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A four-star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

BUSHMILLS IRISH WHISKEY INTRODUCES NEW BLEND

“BUSHMILLS RED BUSH” TO ITS AWARD-WINNING PORTFOLIO

Bushmills, County Antrim – Bushmills^® Irish Whiskey announces the launch of BUSHMILLS^® RED BUSH™, the newest addition to the range of malt-rich, blended whiskeys. Matured in bourbon casks for a delicate and exceptionally smooth and balanced flavour, the liquid appeals to both bourbon enthusiasts and those new to Irish whiskey.

BUSHMILLS RED BUSH launches first in the United States as a testament to the exponential growth the Irish whiskey category has experienced in America in recent years.

“While we’ve been innovating with our aged whiskeys for centuries, we’re excited to embark on a journey with the millennial drinker,” says Colum Egan, Master Distiller at The Old Bushmills Distillery. “Maturing the whiskey exclusively in first fill bourbon barrels creates  an extremely smooth spirit that will resonate with frequent bourbon fans and first time Irish whiskey drinkers.”

BUSHMILLS RED BUSH is a smooth blend of triple distilled Irish single malt and fine Irish grain whiskey. On the nose, the amber spirit offers intense aromas of toasted oak and vanilla. The palate is medium bodied with hints of caramel and nutty flavours. It is a balanced, accessible Irish whiskey, drawing new consumers to the character and flavour profile unique to Bushmills Irish Whiskey.

The distillery, best known for its signature style of smooth, malt-rich spirits, is situated on the rugged north coast of Ireland and holds the title of Ireland’s oldest working distillery. Bushmills has proudly offered a generous range of triple distilled blends and single malts for over 400 years and has remained bold and unwavering along the way. “BUSHMILLS RED BUSH personifies the gritty Irish character and adds a sense of adventure and fun to our portfolio, further defining the confident, courageous and independent spirit we’ve seen for generations at Bushmills,” adds Egan.

Among the first of the Irish whiskeys to be imported to the U.S., American drinkers fond of whiskey and other brown spirits have enjoyed the range of characterful smooth spirits from Bushmills since the 1800s. BUSHMILLS RED BUSH is a new, versatile Irish whiskey best enjoyed neat as a shot or with mixers like cola, soda and ginger ale.

For more information on Bushmills Irish Whiskey, please visit www.bushmills.com and @BushmillsUSA on Facebook^® and Instagram^®, #REALIRISH

AMERICAN WARRIOR WHISKEY Looks to Promote American War Heroes with Funding Assistance via FundThis  

AMERICAN WARRIOR WHISKEY is a veteran owned spirits and retail company dedicated to connecting people through the inspiring stories of those that fought for America’s freedom. The company has just started a crowdfunding campaign via FundThis to introduce their initial line of whiskeys.

Nashville, TN March 23rd, 2017

An upcoming spirits brand with a difference, American Warrior Whiskey is committed to promoting America’s war veterans and supporting those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Each bottle of whiskey manufactured by this veteran owned spirits company will feature a tribute sharing the stories of selfless service of America’s war heroes.

Founder of AMERICAN WARRIOR WHISKEY Keith Marshall is an Air Force veteran. Marshall and most of his family members have served the military and their Country with distinction. Representing veterans from all five branches of the military, the brand will be an extension of US military families bringing together the old and the new.

The AWW team strongly believes that premier medical care should be a benefit for all veterans. 20% of the profit on each and every bottle of AWW sold will be donated to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) support programs and research. By funding programs and research activities related to PTSD, the company looks forward to developing a superior support system for veterans suffering from this psychological casualty of war.

American Warrior Whiskey will produce all their products in America. Their initial line of whiskeys will feature unique small batch, oak barrel aged bourbon and their premium all natural white corn Moonshine. These premium spirits will be sold in the company’s retail shop along with a line of unique cocktail mixers. After the launch of their first two lines, American Warrior Whiskey will launch an e-commerce platform, offering whiskey connoisseurs the liberty to purchase the AWW products online.

To produce their initial line of spirits, American Warrior Whiskey has already partnered with two of the finest craft distillers in the US. All spirits manufactured by them will follow the company’s specific recipes, raw product specifications, and distilling guidelines.

Highlighting the concept of AWW, a senior spokesperson from the company said, “AWW will be more than a spirit and retail company, it will be a brand committed to an undying tribute and belief that by sharing the stories of our warriors; we can bring together generations of past and present, and fade the gap between soldiers and civilians.”

American Warrior Whiskey has just started a FundThis campaign to raise funds to produce and launch their small-batch premium bourbon and moonshine. The funding goal of this campaign to get things off the ground is $30,000. But the American Warrior Whiskey vision is much bigger. If the team manages to raise $250,000 it will be able to open its first Whiskey Exchange, which would hire veterans and propel the cause to even higher levels.

To find out more about American Warrior Whiskey and their crowdfunding campaign, please visit http://bit.ly/2o5m8JX

About American Warrior Whiskey: American Warrior Whiskey is a veteran owned spirits and retail company dedicated to promoting American heroes who exemplify the Warrior Ethos. They are committed to supporting those who suffer from PTSD, and looks to inspire and connect people through American Warrior stories of triumph in the face of adversity.

About FundThis – Founded by Felix Hartmann, David Hartmann and Anthony Perrera, FundThis is the first crowdfunding platform in the world to deliver the total solution crowdfunders need to succeed. Helping crowdfunding campaigns from creation to graphic design, campaign write up, public relations to conclusion, FundThis is the first platform to provide a start-to-finish service. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, FundThis is positioned to transform the entire crowdfunding industry.

Tamdhu Marks Anniversary with 50 Year Old Whisky

Tamdhu Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky has unveiled its oldest ever bottling – Tamdhu 50 Year Old – to coincide with the distillery’s 120^th anniversary.

Matured in a first fill European oak sherry butt for five decades, just 100 bottles of Tamdhu 50 Year Old will be made available globally. This single cask release will retail at £16,000 per bottle.

Tamdhu 50 has forest fruits, elegant oak and orange depths on the nose. On the palate, cloves, liquorice, espresso and baked apples are revealed, with a lingering finish of cocoa, ginger, walnuts and maple syrup. (Full tasting notes below)

This rare whisky is presented in an exquisitely-designed decanter, created by a team of traditional British craftsmen and women including glass designer Katy Holford, crystal experts Royal Brierley, and the silversmiths at renowned luxury jewellery house Hamilton & Inches.

Leonard Russell, Managing Director of Ian Macleod Distillers, who own Tamdhu, commented: 

“120 years of expertise and 50 years of maturation in an extraordinary sherry oak cask  have gone into making Tamdhu 50 Year Old, and we are delighted to be able to share it with the world. 

“What makes this whisky really special to us is that it represents the rebirth of the distillery. There was a time, before we bought and reopened Tamdhu, when some thought it was gone forever. This cask, which may never have been released had the distillery remained closed, can be now enjoyed and savoured, and that is something we want to celebrate.     

“In the spirit of celebration, we have been working with some of the UK’s top craftspeople to create a beautiful decanter, inspired by the generations of expertise which has gone into making Tamdhu.  It’s a fitting tribute to a remarkable whisky, in a very special year.”

Tamdhu 50 was unveiled at a special event at Hamilton & Inches’ showroom on George Street, Edinburgh. The luxury jewellery house, established in 1866, was responsible for producing the sterling silver which adorns each decanter.

Stephen Paterson, Chief Executive of Hamilton & Inches, commented: 

“Hamilton & Inches are proud to collaborate with Tamdhu for their special 50 Year Old release. Our award-winning silversmiths have given their devotion to the artistry of the bottling, and are thrilled to have brought Hamilton & Inches’ 150 years of experience in silverwork to this partnership. 

“Our iconic Georgian showroom in the heart of Edinburgh is the perfect setting for showcasing this wonderful whisky release, and for celebrating the craftsmanship involved.”

Each decanter of Tamdhu 50 Year Old is presented in a solid stained oak cannister adorned with Hamilton & Inches hallmarked sterling silver. The pack design depicts Tamdhu Distillery’s location on the Spey River, its Victorian train station and exclusive sherry casks.

Tamdhu is owned by one of Scotland’s leading, independent family-owned distillers, Ian Macleod Distillers. Tamdhu was born on the banks of the River Spey in 1897 – an era when anything seemed possible. When obstacles were there to be overcome, an age of the Can-Dhu-Spirit. Its quality is defined by the hint of peat in its malted barley, the natural Speyside water that is drawn directly from the Tamdhu spring and the 100% exclusive use of only the finest sherry oak casks.

Learn more at www.tamdhu50.com/

www.tamdhu.com/

Please drink responsibly 

Notes 

Tasting Notes

Tamdhu 50 was distilled on 2 November 1963 and matured in a single first fill European Oak Sherry Butt. It was bottled at cask strength 55.6%.

Nose: Forest fruits, elegant oak and orange depths, with underlying rosehip, dark chocolate and marzipan

Palate: Cloves, liquorice, espresso and baked apples. The uniquely complex palate also reveals banana,
black pepper and toasted almonds

Finish: Cocoa, ginger, walnuts and maple syrup.

Watch the Tamdhu 50 tasting notes video with Sandy McIntyre, Distillery Manager here:

Decanter details

Watch the brand video about the creation of the Tamdhu 50 decanter here: www.tamdhu50.com/

About Hamilton & Inches

Hamilton & Inches is Scotland’s luxury jewellery house, with distinctive workshops and an iconic customer showroom in the heart of Edinburgh. With 150 years of heritage, Hamilton & Inches brings the world’s most aspirational brands to life and crafts each gift with prestige and pride. Hamilton & Inches are holders of the Royal Warrant for 120 years, and Silversmiths and Clock Specialists to The Queen.

About Katy Holford 

Katy Holford’s designs in crystal and glass are deceptively simple.

For the Tamdhu 50 Year Old she used the richness of English crystal to fashion a decanter as rare and exquisite as the whisky it holds.

About Royal Brierley  

Royal Brierley is the pre-eminent maker of English crystal. Founded in 1776, the company holds two Royal Warrants.

GLENMORANGIE LAUNCHES PRIDE 1974 – ITS OLDEST AND RAREST WHISKY

One of the most prestigious Highland single malts ever created by Glenmorangie has been revealed this week. Building on the success of the exclusive bottlings of Pride 1981 (released in 2011) and Pride 1978 (released in 2014) with the launch of Pride 1974.

Crafted by Dr Bill Lumsden, the new 41-year-old edition was laid down on 30^th October 1974 in combination of ex-bourbon casks and ex-Oloroso sherry butts then left to mature until Dr Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation at Glenmorangie deemed the whisky had reached its very peak more than four decades later.

Dr Bill said: “Glenmorangie Pride 1974 is the oldest and deepest Glenmorangie ever to be released. Its age lends the whisky an enriched intensity, borne only of a slow, patient maturation.  The result is an exquisite blend of deep, rich, salty and spicy aromas – aged balsamic vinegar, salted caramel toffee and oranges, leading to tastes of baked apples, toffee, oranges and brown sugar.”

Glenmorangie Pride 1974 is the third limited-edition release in the Pride collection, which showcases the Distillery’s most rare and treasured malts. There will only be 503 crystal decanters available worldwide.

To mark the release of the distillery’s oldest whisky, Glenmorangie and renowned piano maker Steinway & Sons, have collaborated with Steinway Artist Aaron Diehl, to compose a piece of music which embodies the whisky’s rare beauty.

Diehl found inspiration at the Distillery where Glenmorangie’s exceptional whisky has been crafted since 1843. His composition echoes the creative spirit of Glenmorangie Pride 1974, drawing on its depth of character and its long maturation. Diehl, a world-renowned pianist, premiered his work alongside the whisky last night in New York.

Bottled at 52% ABV, Glenmorangie Pride 1974 will be released in May with an RRP of £7,200. Only 503 decanters of Glenmorangie Pride 1974 will be available worldwide.

www.glenmorangie.com

NOTES: 

Tasting Notes:

Glenmorangie Pride 1974 is non chill-filtered and bottled at 52% ABV.

Colour: Mahogany

Nose: Wonderful, deep, rich, salty and spicy flavours. Salted caramel toffee, chocolate truffles.  Turkish delight, rum-and-raisin-flavoured ice-cream, and a hint of aged balsamic vinegar.  Three or four drops of water release myriad complex vapours, reminiscent of warn brioche, yeast floor, ginger-snap biscuits and subtle, gentle blood orange, finally giving way to more hints of brioche, baked bread and cedar wood.

Taste: For a whisky of such age, the mouthfeel is soft, leading to surprisingly vibrant flavours of baked apples, oranges, honey and menthol.  Lots of toffee, molasses, double cream and spicy clove and aniseed.

Finish: The aftertaste is lingering but gently soothing, with pecan nuts, leather, fudge and creamy café latte.

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky originates in the Scottish Highlands where, at the Glenmorangie Distillery, it is distilled in the tallest malt whisky stills in Scotland for a purer spirit, expertly matured in the finest oak casks for great depth, and perfected by the Men of Tain, who have passed their skills down the generations, often from father to son.  These select craftsmen go to unseen lengths to ensure that Glenmorangie is made in the same unhurried, uncompromising way as it always has been.  The Distillery was founded in 1843 and is renowned as a pioneer in its field, uniting tradition with innovation.

About the Glenmorangie Pride series:

This exceptional series of whiskies showcases the most rare and treasured creations ever to emerge from the Glenmorangie Distillery.  The first in the series, Glenmorangie Pride 1981, is a 28-year-old whisky, matured for 18 years in Glenmorangie’s finest oak casks, and then extra-matured for ten years in Sauternes barriques from the fabled vineyards of Chateau d’Yquem.  Glenmorangie Pride 1978 was the second release.  First matured for 19 years in American oak ex-bourbon casks, it then spent a further 15 years in five casks which once held a Premier Grand Cru claret.  Glenmorangie Pride 1974, is the most highly prized whisky yet in the series. This 41-year-old single malt owes its exquisite character to the marriage of two whiskies from two casks, one matured for its entire life in ex-bourbon casks, the other in ex-Oloroso sherry butts.

About the premiere of Glenmorangie Pride 1974 and Aaron Diehl’s composition:

Glenmorangie Pride 1974 will be unveiled alongside Aaron Diehl’s composition in Manhattan, New York, on March 23^rd, 2017].  There, a select group of collectors and connoisseurs will share in a rare moment of beauty, which pays homage to the traditions of craftsmanship and creativity shared by Glenmorangie and Steinway & Sons.  At the premiere, Dr Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation & Whisky Stocks, will reveal the character of Glenmorangie Pride 1974, and Steinway Artist Aaron Diehl will perform his work inspired by the expression, on the exceptional Steinway D concert piano. 

About Dr Bill Lumsden:

Dr Bill Lumsden is Glenmorangie’s acclaimed Director of Whisky Creation, Distilling & Whisky Stocks.  Dr Bill is regarded by the malt whisky industry as an innovator, creating whiskies which have revolutionised the single-malt market.  In recognition of his team’s work, The Glenmorangie Company was named Distiller of the Year at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in 2012.  Dr Bill, who has a PhD in biochemistry, has combined art and science in his work since he joined The Glenmorangie Company in 1995.  He is renowned for his groundbreaking wood management techniques, experimentation with exceptional casks at various ages, and use of extra-maturation.  Dr Bill has won a series of prestigious awards and accolades.  He recently added to his plaudits by winning the 2015 International Spirits Challenge’s special recognition award for a Master Distiller/Blender.  He was further honoured with the title of Master Distiller/Blender of the Year, at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2016 awards.

About Steinway & Sons:

Since 1853, Steinway pianos have set an uncompromising standard for sound, touch, beauty, and investment value. Because of a dedication to continuous improvement, today’s Steinway remains the choice of 9 out of 10 concert artists, and it is the preferred piano of countless musicians, professional and amateur, throughout the world. For more information, visit www.steinway.com.

About Aaron Diehl:

Diehl is a 2007 graduate of The Juilliard School, the American Pianists Association’s 2011 Cole Porter Fellow, and a Monterey Jazz Festival Commission Artist. His work on Cécile McLorin Salvant’s For One To Love earned him a Grammy Award, and his latest album, Space, Time, Continuum, emphasises artistic interactions between generations. Aaron Diehl recently had his debut with the New York Philharmonic performing George Gershwin’s Concerto in F.  He has also collaborated with Philip Glass on his complete piano Études, and scored Jeremy McQueen’s ballet The Black Iris Project.

About the decanter of Glenmorangie Pride 1974:

The rare expressions in the Glenmorangie Pride series are contained within sleek, crystal decanters, designed by Laurence Brabant, one of
the design world’s most talented glassware specialists.  For each expression, Brabant’s exclusive design has been tailored to the individual character of the whisky within.  In the case of Glenmorangie Pride 1974, the unique cask make-up of the expression is engraved in the decanter’s golden, metallic detailing.  The decanter is protected by a box with a lacquered cherry wood veneer and a mirrored interior, which reflects the rarity of Glenmorangie Pride 1974.  

About Laurence Brabant:

Over the past decade, Laurence Brabant has established herself as one of the design world’s most talented glassware specialists. Inspired by the fragility of glass, she uses the material to play with light and colour and
experiment with the characteristics of visibility. Her work has been showcased globally and she has worked with Jean Paul Gaultier & Philippe Starck, among others. Laurence designed Glenmorangie Pride 1981, Glenmorangie Pride 1978 and Glenmorangie Pride 1974.

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.

Less than 1 month to go !! 

Dufftown 2000 will again be hosting a full range of events for the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival from 27 April to 1 May 2017. 

All our events are available to book on the Spirit of Speyside website, from Whisky Tastings, Distillery Tours and The “Dramble” Walk around Dufftown’s Distilleries. Also, for the 13th year running, is the very popular and best attended event “Whisky Fair” in the Memorial Hall, which had nearly 600 visitors last year on the Saturday & Sunday of the Festival. 

See you all in the “Whisky Capital of the World” in April 2017 renewing old acquaintances and making some new friends.  

Dufftown 2000 Ltd.

www.dufftown.co.uk & whisky.dufftown.co.uk

History in the making

Strathearn’s Cask Ownership Scheme Returns

One of Scotland’s Scotland’s smallest distilleries, Strathearn, has revealed they will reintroduce their elite Private Cask Ownership Scheme, giving customers the chance to own their own whisky or rum cask.

Whisky aficionados can purchase a 40 litre cask or a 100 litre oak cask with a variety of types on offer including Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez Sherry, Maderia, Portuguese Brandy and more. Strathearn’s Cask Aged Golden Rum will also be available to purchase in 30 litre casks.

Working on a single cask basis has allowed Strathearn to experiment with different wood types and finishes, as well as learning to appreciate the natural variations that occur throughout spirit production, influenced by the climate and ingredients.

Tony Reeman-Clark, Founder of Strathearn Distillery said: “We are excited to reintroduce our ‘club’ which allows our customers from around the world to own a little piece of our distillery history. Being VisitScotland’s Year of History and Heritage, our ownership scheme couldn’t come at a better time.

“So far, we’ve only released the first batch of our Single Malt Scotch Whisky and are yet to unveil our Scottish rum so it is great to be able to offer a huge variety of finishes, catering to all tastes. We believe rum is the next big thing in the Scottish spirits scene so there’s no better way to allow people to get their hands on a whole cask of a true pioneering Scottish spirit.”

Originally the Private Ownership Scheme was introduced by Strathearn to pay homage to The Wash Act of 1784, where simplified rates of duty were applied to small scale distilleries north of the Highland line. The Scheme embraces the ethos and the simplicity of the 1784 act.

The casks are exclusively available through the Strathearn Distillery website and will vary in price according to spirit, finish and size. The casks will be limited and offered on a first come, first fill basis.

For more information on Strathearn Distillery or the Private Cask Ownership Scheme please visit www.strathearndistillery.com/.

Notes

• Strathearn Distillery was established in 2013 by Tony Reeman-Clark who has a passion for whisky and small scale distilling.  Production began in the October of 2013, with their first cask being filled with Strathearn new-make spirit. After three years of maturation, the first bottles of Scotch Whisky were auctioned off in December 2016.
• Strathearn produces a range of highly acclaimed Scottish gins, experimenting with innovative production techniques and flavour profiles.
• Strathearn has created a range of spirits, their soon to be released Golden Rum is being distilled now.

Whisky writer is the envy of thousands as he lands top job at Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

Writer, barman, foodie, whisky aficionado – Sean Murphy wears many different hats in the course of his day-to-day working life. And now he is about to add another job title to the collection with a role that is widely considered to be the most sought-after job at one of the world’s leading Scotch whisky festivals.

Sean has been appointed as judge in the Best New Event competition at the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival – a role that will see him visit five brand new events to the Festival programme and determine which one whets his appetite.

It’s a position that Sean, who is based in Glasgow, was only too happy to accept after making his inaugural visit to the Festival last year. During his five days at the event, he was amazed at just how much could be crammed into one visit and the range of activities on offer.

This year there are almost 500 events taking place across the Speyside region from April 27 to May 1. From exclusive behind the scenes distillery tours to the chance to meet the people who put their hearts and souls into the region’s most famous export, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is truly unique.

Sean says he has become the envy of colleagues and friends since his appointment was announced, and he feels a little overwhelmed that such an important task has been placed in his hands.

He adds, “I’ve promised the people that I’ve spoken to about it that I’m there in an official capacity and not just to enjoy myself, although most of them don’t believe me when I say that. There’s some envy there, certainly!

“What I discovered last year is that the Festival itself is expansive. I don’t think I was prepared for how spread out it would be or that there would be so many events, but in the end I realised that was the beauty of it.

“The events were varied and never boring and it was amazing to meet so many people who were as massively passionate – if not more so – than I was about the subject.”

Five events have been shortlisted for the coveted Best New Event title and it seems that they have already proved a hit with this year’s revellers, as tickets have been in high demand.

Sean will have his scorecard at the ready for the first stop on his tour – Whisky Tasting: The World of Duty Free Whiskies. The event, organised by The Whisky Shop Dufftown, is with critically acclaimed spirits writers Neil Ridley and Joel Harrison and participants will take an immersive flight of unusual whiskies only available from travel retail.

He will then hook himself a rare opportunity to meet a man who most definitely enjoys a little water with his whisky – ghillie Robert Mitchell, who works on beats of the River Spey owned by The Macallan.

During The Macallan Ghillie’s Tour and BBQ Lunch, Sean and the other participants will be able to chat to Robert about his life on the river, before walking one-and-a-half miles along the mighty Spey while he shares the secrets of its salmon pools. He’ll then host a BBQ lunch at one of the distillery’s fishing huts before sharing one of his favourite drams of The Macallan.

Sean will then be at Speyside Cooperage, which was the scene of one of his favourite events from 2016. He was one of a handful of visitors who witnessed the blackening of two apprentice coopers – an ancient ritual which marked the pair becoming fully-fledged coopers – which went on to win the Best New Event award last year.

This year Speyside Cooperage will be setting up four coopers in a head to head battle in a bid to set a new world record for the fastest time to build a 190-litre barrel. The minimum requirement to achieve the record is seven minutes and 30 seconds.

Speyside’s whisky smugglers will be the focus for the Glenlivet Smugglers’ One Life Livet Tour by Glenlivet Hill Trek. During the tour, experienced guides will take guests to historic sites not usually open to the public on foot and on eight-wheel drive argocat vehicles.

They will enjoy drams of malt whiskies, lunch in a renovated stone bothy on the slopes of Carn Liath and finish off with a guided tour of The Glenlivet Distillery, which became the first licensed distillery in the Glenlivet Valley after the Excise Act of 1823.

The final stop for Sean and his scorecards will be the Mortlach History and Whisky Walk organised by the Seven Stills historic inn and malt whisky bar. During the tour with a qualified guide, participants will walk just over a mile, enjoying drams of Mortlach along the way.

Although the focus will be on learning about the history of the dram and distillery, Celtic monks, grave robbers, excisemen and the temperance movement in Dufftown will also be among the topics up for discussion.

Sean has excellent pedigree for the role of judge: his passion for the amber nectar blossomed into life when he started working at Glasgow’s famous whisky watering hole, The Potstill. His cousin now owns the bar, and Sean continues to do the odd shift when he’s not writing about food and drink for The Scotsman newspaper.

During his time at the 2016 Festival, Sean was surprised at just how accessible the key players in the industry were and did not realise there would be opportunities to come face to face with the distillery managers, master distillers, blenders and ambassadors that are so critical to the industry.

The fact that he was able to meet to many of his own whisky heroes – including the likes of writers Ian Buxton, Charlie McLean and Dave Broom – made it all the more memorable for him.

Sean believes that interaction is the key to a successful event, and is excited to see what organisers have been able to put together. Sean says, “The mention of a Guinness World Record attempt caught my eye, I think that will be an exciting prospect.

“The Macallan Ghillie tour will also be very interesting. I’m intrigued to see a different side to the Spey and specifically the fishing that goes on there. The events look as varied and as enticing as last year and I can’t wait to attend them and see what the different teams come up with this year.

“Interaction is hugely important, either in the activity itself or giving people the chance to meet the producers and teams who work so tirelessly to create these stunning whiskies.

“A unique offering is also something I’m keen on. Getting the chance to experience something like the blackening event last year – an event that only a few people have been privileged enough to enjoy – is hugely important.

“Overall though, I think the ability to deliver something interesting and fun will be most important to me. Seeing people’s reaction to the events will definitely effect my judgement of them.”

Based in the heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country, the five-day Festival has events from Kingussie in the south to Forres in the west and Buckie in the east. The programme includes almost 500 different events, from whisky tastings to whisky walks.

More information about the event is available at www.spiritofspeyside.com and tickets are also available to buy on the website. The Festival is active on social media – facebook.com/WhiskyFestival and @spirit_speyside on Twitter and Instagram. Use the hashtag #dram17.

Picture caption: Sean Murphy has landed a plum role at the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival – the writer and whisky enthusiast has been appointed as sole judge in the best new event competition.

Islay malt calls on fans to share in a nose, taste and toast for beloved Manager

It is ten years since Ardbeg’s beloved Mickey Heads took charge of the single malt whisky’s untamed spirit. To celebrate the acclaimed Distillery Manager’s decade at the helm, the world’s smokiest, peatiest Islay malt invites fans across the world to pour a dram of Ardbeg and give three cheers for Mickey, with a nose, taste and toast.

In 2007, when Mickey was appointed, Ardbeg was a very different place to the one the cult malt’s loyal following knows today. Saved from extinction by The Glenmorangie Company only a decade previously, it would require years of devotion to complete the Distillery’s resurgence on its remote Scottish island home. With Islay native Mickey at the forefront however, Ardbeg has gone from strength to strength. Today, it is the world’s most highly awarded smoky malt, while Mickey was singled out as Distillery Manager of the Year at respected industry awards in 2014.

In honour of Mickey’s decade of dedication to Ardbeg’s enduring spirit, the Distillery calls on smoky malt whisky fans to join in a worldwide three cheers, with a nose, taste and toast of their favourite expression, be it Ardbeg Ten Years Old, Ardbeg Uigeadail or Ardbeg Corryvreckan. Ardbeggians are invited to film and share their cheers with the hashtag #3cheers, to be part of a special anniversary surprise for Mickey which the Distillery is keeping under wraps for now.

Meanwhile on Islay, Mickey is holding some anniversary tastings of his own. In Ardbeg’s first official tasting videos, he will nose, taste and toast Ardbeg’s three Ultimate whiskies, giving his insight into the expressions that Islay’s wilderness has inspired.

Mickey, who also chairs Ardbeg’s loyal fan club, the Committee, said: “I’ve loved every minute of my years at Ardbeg. The Distillery has grown stronger and stronger in the past decade, and today its untamed spirit is enjoyed by Ardbeggians around the globe. Here on Islay, I’ll be raising a glass of Ardbeg to celebrate how far we’ve come. I hope Ardbeggians will join me to toast The Ultimate Islay Malt. Sláinte!”

Lindores Abbey Distillery launches its Preservation Society with opportunity to win a cask of Scotch whisky history 

Scotch’s oldest landmark sets the tone for a momentous opening year as visitor centre and distillery set to welcome the world to the site of first recorded whisky distillation from 1494.

Today (Wednesday, 15th March), Lindores Abbey Distillery in Fife, Scotland, celebrated the first of many key events set for its opening year, as it announced its Preservation Society membership sales open with the symbolic first planting of a tree in its historic orchards and the unveiling of a tantalising global whisky ballot.

‘The 1494’ members of The Lindores Abbey Preservation Society, who join with a £500 donation, will be entered into this launch ballot for a 200 litre ex-Woodford Reserve bourbon cask, which will be filled with first year of production Lindores Abbey Distillery spirit. The unique cask can then be bottled for the lucky winner at a date of their choosing, once the spirit is three years and a day old. As part of the launch ballot, the cask duty will also be paid, taking the value of the Lindores Abbey membership launch prize to in excess of £7,000.

‘The 1494’ will also have a tree planted in the new orchards in the member’s name (which they are welcome to plant with prior arrangement); they will receive a bottle from the first Limited Edition bottling of Lindores  Abbey Aqua Vitae (50CL, 40% ABV); a bottle (1 of only 1494) from the first distillery bottling of Lindores Abbey Single Malt Whisky (70CL, 40%+ ABV) – sent out when Lindores Abbey’s Distillery Manager declares it ready; first offer on any other Limited Edition bottlings and rights to own a bottle number each time; a welcome pack with wooden membership card entitling free entry at the distillery and visitor centre for the member and a guest in the year of joining; annual invitation to the Lindores Abbey ‘Bear Burning’ Ceremony and party for the member and a guest; 10% discount for the online shop and at the Visitor Centre; plus 10% discount on venue hire.

Members can donate £60 to the Preservation Society to secure a bottle from the first Limited Edition bottling of Lindores Abbey Aqua Vitae (50CL, 40% ABV); early access to any other Limited Edition bottlings; a welcome pack including two tickets to visit the Distillery and Abbey and a 10% discount for the online shop.

In a taste of what The 1494 Lindores Abbey Preservation Society members will enjoy as part of the experience, today, founders Drew and Helen McKenzie Smith unlocked the gates to the historic Lindores Abbey ruins, which date back to the 12th century, and planted the first of many apple trees, as a symbol of the renaissance which will take place at Scotch whisky’s spiritual home.

Lindores Abbey Distillery will open on 1st August this year, on the site of the earliest written reference to Scotch Whisky production (or Aqua Vitae, as it was known), from 1494. It appears in the Exchequer Roll of the same year, naming Friar John Cor, a Lindores monk, who was commissioned by King James IV to turn 8 bolls of malt into Aqua Vitae.

Lindores Abbey, or the ‘Church by the Water’, is a key site in Scotland’s pilgrim and royal heritage. Founded in 1191 by David Earl of Huntingdon, on land overlooking the Estuary of the River Tay, given to him by his brother King William I.

The Tironensian monks who built and populated the monastery in 1191 were masons, distillers, brewers, carpenters, blacksmiths, sculptors, painters, gardeners, beekeepers, farmers and husbandmen, and they all played a part in the work of the Abbey.

Drew and Helen Mackenzie Smith want to see Lindores Abbey flourish again as a site for research, learning, brewing, distilling, horticulture, and even beekeeping, reinstating distilling and heritage orchards and gardens.  Members of the Preservation Society will share in that vision. As part of the Preservation Society’s commitment to protect the Abbey for future generations, members will become part of a very small group of people who have directly contributed to the preservation of this historic site.

The distillery is in its final phases of construction, created by converting and enlarging the old Abbey farm steading, which was built from original Abbey stone and most recently used as a dairy. Organic Architects have been responsible for the design and delivery of the distillery buildings, which champions local sustainability and low carbon footprints with Denmylne wood and stone from nearby Clatchard Quarry. Visitor experience experts Bright 3D are responsible for the innovative interior design.

Renowned fabricators, Forsyths of Rothes will complete the Lindores Abbey Distillery copper stills, and fermented wooden washbacks will come from Joseph Brown of Dufftown. Distilling will flow this year from the very same water supply as was first used in 1494, with the glass-fronted stillroom looking directly out over the Abbey grounds in full recognition of the incredible historical prestige of the revival of Scotch Whisky’s oldest location.

Founder of Lindores Abbey Distillery, Drew McKenzie Smith said:

“Casks from the first year of revived production at Scotch whisky’s oldest landmark will be special indeed, and we are excited to offer this unique whisky ballot for enthusiasts around the world in our opening year.

“As custodians of Lindores Abbey, we have made a sincere commitment to protect this important landmark for future generations. We are building a Single Malt distillery in the grounds of the former Abbey, and reinstating the heritage orchards and extensive gardens, which were first introduced here by the Tironensian Monks in the 12th Century.

“Our Preservation Society members will support the revival of so many ancient crafts and traditions, as we return Scotch Whisky’s oldest landmark to its former glory. The 1494 members of the Preservation Society will play a vital part in the story of Lindores Abbey Distillery, as we see life flourish here once again, as will all whisky fans and future pilgrims to this most special of places.”

 Notes:

1. Images from today’s launch will be available here from 11am. Images of Lindores Abbey are available for download here. More information can be found on the Lindores Abbey Distillery website.
2. The £500 Lindores Abbey Preservation Society membership will be limited to the first 1494 members. It includes: Donation to the Preservation Society and a tree planted in the new orchards in the member’s name (which they are welcome to plant with prior arrangement); A bottle from the first Limited Edition bottling of Lindores  Abbey Aqua Vitae (50CL, 40%ABV); A bottle (1 of only 1494) from our first distillery bottling of Lindores Abbey Single Malt Whisky (70CL, 40%+ ABV), ready and sent out when our Distillery Manager declares it ready; First offer on any other Limited Edition bottlings and rights to own bottle number each time; A welcome pack with wooden membership card entitling free entry at the distillery and visitor centre for member and a guest in the year of joining; Annual invitation to the Lindores Abbey ‘Bear Burning’ Ceremony and party for member and a guest; 10% discount on Online Shop and at the Visitor Centre; 10% discount on venue hire.

• The £60 Lindores Abbey Preservation Society membership includes: Donation to the Preservation Society; A bottle from the first Limited Edition bottling of Lindores Abbey Aqua Vitae (50CL, 40%ABV); Early access to any other Limited Edition bottlings; A welcome pack including two tickets to visit the Distillery and Abbey; 10% discount on Online Shop

• Lindores Abbey Distillery will open on 1st August 2017, with a limited number of Lindores Abbey single malt casks for private ownership released after distillation commences.

• The Lindores Abbey Bear is a depiction of the stone statue taken from the Abbot’s Abbey lodgings at the time of the Reformation. Each year Lindores Abbey Distillery will burn the bear into the ground to toast the past and future of this historic location.

• Lindores Abbey was founded in 1191 by David Earl of Huntingdon, on land overlooking the Estuary of the River Tay, given to him by his brother King William I. It was visited by Kings and Queens (including Edward I of England, John Balliol, David II, James III and IV), warriors and statesmen. William Wallace even took refuge with 300 of his men after their victory over the English at the nearby Battle of Black Earnside.

• Lindores Abbey Farm was bought by Drew McKenzie Smith’s grandfather in 1913. Drew now holds the title of ‘Custodian of Lindores’.  Along with his wife, Helen, Drew has spent the past two decades tirelessly researching, planning and campaigning to bring a distillery back to Lindores Abbey.

For updates on life at Lindores Abbey Distillery, visit http://www.lindoresabbeydistillery.com/ and our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages