THE CHANGING FACE OF SOCIALISING

Tracking the global trends that will set us apart from the crowd in 2017

Diageo’s first ‘Future Series’ trend report reveals the shape of socialising in the year ahead.

In the report, the team responsible for innovation and future-gazing at Diageo, the world leading drinks company behind brands like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, Captain Morgan, Baileys and Guinness, isolates three main social trends expected to accelerate into the mainstream in the year ahead.

Diageo worked with a team of cultural ethnographers to study social scenes from around the world and define three trends that will be influencing how we’ll spend our time in 2017:

• ‘Exceptional becomes the rule’: socialising is becoming increasingly spontaneous and experimental.
• ‘In with the ‘in’ crowd’: the home is turning into a place to create extraordinary experiences for friends and family.
• ‘Optimise not compromise’: consumers want greater control and choice over what goes into their body, without compromising on excitement and experience.

Zoe Lazarus, Global Future and Culture Planning Director at Diageo, commented: 

”At Diageo, we are passionate about creating drinks of the future and helping people celebrate. We have been innovating for hundreds of years and have a strong history as industry pioneers in identifying and responding to trends.”

”Innovation drives our company forward and for us it means staying ahead of trends, continually creating new products, categories and experiences for people to enjoy around the world.”

”Our success relies not only on understating our consumers today, but also on tracking and responding to emerging socialising trends and behaviours that will become the mainstream of tomorrow.’’ 

Trend 1: ‘Exceptional becomes the rule’

• Enhanced and enabled by digital technology, socialising is becoming increasingly spontaneous and experimental. The diary is dead. Fixed arrangements make way for spur-of-the-moment socialising that is dictated by the weather, a whim or what’s triggered an online buzz.
• Our time is precious, and with increased and sporadic working hours, we desire more from our free time and crave unique experiences. 2017 will see immersive and shareable entertainment push the boundaries as people realise a growing desire to demonstrate their individuality through social media.
• Virtual reality (VR) is also expected to become more prevalent with the number of active VR users forecasted to reach 171 million by 2018 and make immersive experiences more accessible to anyone, anytime. Diageo has already delved into this with an immersive VR adventure that allows whisky fans to discover and appreciate the flavours of its Singleton single malt Scotch whisky.

Trend 2: ‘In with the ‘in’ crowd’

• In 2017, we will see the home become the place to create and curate extraordinary experiences for friends and family. It will become a destination to host events that previously we would have had to go out to enjoy: our personal theatre, pub and club all turned into one.
• The huge proliferation of on-demand experiences and services is shaking things up and people can increasingly entertain at home with more and more products and experiences available the touch of a button.
• Technology will continue to define at-home socialising. Tapping into this opportunity, Diageo recently launched its Johnnie Walker digital mentorship programme. Using their tablet, mobile or Amazon Echo devices, whisky fans are introduced to the brand’s heritage and blending expertise through a variety of unique experiences, heralding a new era of whisky education that can be enjoyed by adults from the comfort of their own home. 

Trend 3: ‘Optimise not compromise’

• However and whatever, 2017 will be the year of choice. Leading a balanced lifestyle is becoming increasingly achievable and aspirational. And it’s not just technology that’s driving this trend. The increasing prevalence of clear nutritional and calorie information on packaging makes it easier to manage our diets.
• This year, people will continue to opt for products, experiences and attitudes that say something unique about them. Optimising through personalisation is a case in point at The Artesian bar at The Langham in London for example, where bartenders tap into customers’ personal experiences by creating cocktails that capture their mood and essence in a glass.
• Diageo is offering consumers a wider range of options than ever before with products like Baileys Almande, a dairy and gluten-free version of the original, in North America; Guinness Zero, a non-alcoholic variant of the famous stout, in Indonesia or Smirnoff Spiked Sparkling Seltzer, a low-carb, zero-sugar option, in the United States.

Notes    

About Diageo 

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com/. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

Highland Park Dark Origins

Celebrates Magnus Eunson, the founder of the distillery, this expression uses double the amount of first fill sherry casks normally found in Highland Park bottlings. Bitter chocolate on the nose with pears, over-ripe banana and a touch of cinnamon. The palate is rich with spices on a faintly peaty base, honey and red berries before chocolate-dipped dark fruits behind sweet smoke in the finish.

£54.99 Buy Now

SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY RESTAURANT SCOOPS AA AWARD

Innovative dishes and use of local seasonal produce sees The Dining Room earn two AA rosettes

The team at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s Dining Room restaurant is celebrating after being awarded two AA rosettes.

The Dining Room restaurant, on the first floor of the Society’s 28 Queen Street venue in Edinburgh, was recognised for its culinary excellence and the work of head chef James Freeman and his team.

Freeman’s inventive menu combines traditional fine dining with seasonal local ingredients and beautiful yet unfussy presentation. His dishes include lobster cannelloni with fennel puree, orange and tarragon cream, and roast wood pigeon with elderberry, onion and red cabbage.

The restaurant was recently relaunched with a new stylish contemporary look and expanded capacity as part of a makeover of the Society’s Georgian townhouse at 28 Queen Street venue, which now includes Kaleidoscope Whisky Bar & Shop on the ground floor.

UK Operations Manager, Jan Willem-Damen, credited the achievement to the hard work of head chef, James Freeman, who has worked with the Society for over 15 years.

Jan said: “It’s fantastic to have been awarded two AA Rosettes.  In James, we have an extremely talented chef in the kitchen who creates innovative dishes using quality, local produce.  Together with manager Francois Guillemet, The Dining Room team is an incredible asset to The Scotch Malt Whisky Society and are key to the success behind the restaurant.”

The Dining Room will feature in the 2018 edition of AA Restaurant Guide.

http://www.thediningroomedinburgh.co.uk/

Notes:

About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

• The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is an international whisky club which bottles rare single cask, single malt whisky, and a range of other spirits
• The Society releases a new batch of around 20 single cask single malt whiskies every month
• The Society was established in Edinburgh in 1983 and now has more than 26,000 members and branches around the world
• The Society bottles the finest single malt whisky from around 350 single casks every year and has bottled whisky from a range of more than 132 distilleries in its history.
• The Society offers 3 levels of membership

1. Membership Pioneer with gift box containing 3 samples, £122
2. Member at £61.50 – without gift box
3. Sample Subscription – free.

For more details, visit https://www.smws.com/society-membership

REDEMPTION WHISKEY UNVEILS NEW LOOK

Premium American Whiskey Portfolio Launches New Bottle and Label Design –

Redemption Rye, Bourbon, and High Rye Bourbon

NEW YORK, NY, January 20, 2016 – With the acquisition of Redemption Whiskey one year ago, Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits entered the most dynamic segment of the spirits business: Premium American whiskey. To further the brand’s mission to reclaim rye and cement Redemption Whiskey’s status as a leading rye brand distinctive for its high rye content, high proof, quality aging and blending techniques, Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits announces a new bottle and label design, debuting November 2016.

The brand refresh is the first major evolution for Redemption Whiskey which was founded in 2010 when a cache of rye whiskey barrels, believed to be the perfect expression of the spirit were discovered just as the rye category was beginning to re-emerge. The whiskey, made with a combination of high-rye content and high proof, is sourced in Indiana at the Old Seagram’s Distillery (now owned by MGP Ingredients). While the law states that a whiskey must be 51% rye to be classified as a rye, Redemption Rye’s mash bill contains 95% rye, aged in charred new oak barrels. The brand’s award-winning portfolio also includes two bourbons: Redemption Bourbon and Redemption High Rye Bourbon, and a collection of Limited Edition Aged Barrel Proof selections released in small quantities each year.

Redemption’s new look and feel begins with a custom bottle reshape for the entire range, which has been molded with a concave back, offering a firmer grip for bartenders to handle the bottle. Upgraded features include a bold typeface, leather-like label and a cork. A rye frond is embossed onto the front of every bottle, along with a story about the pre-prohibition whiskey revival in America printed on each label:

“Rye Whiskey was once the preferred spirit in the United States. Prohibition changed that and Rye was nearly forgotten. Redemption is bringing back Rye, restoring it to its rightful place.”

“Last year we completed a most important strategic acquisition; the addition of Redemption Whiskey to the Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits portfolio,” says Tom Steffanci, President of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits. “Since then we’ve spent a lot of time listening to consumers and bartenders, and armed with their input we designed new packaging that takes cues from a bygone era when rye was king in America. The brand’s new look better reflects Redemption Whiskey’s personality and showcases rye’s uniquely American personality. We intend to bring rye back to its pre-prohibition glory.”

Every Redemption bottle continues to be numbered to reflect the batch, an indication of the attention to detail put into making the final product. Redemption is available nationwide and new packaging will begin to hit shelves this month:

Redemption Rye Whiskey: 92 Proof; $29.99 SRP

A true expression of the grain, that starts with a high rye mash bill of 95% – using the highest quality European rye grain available worldwide and 5% malted barley, aged in new charred American oak barrels to an average of 2.5 years. Flavored with light floral and citrus notes. Slight mint, anise and dry baking spices (cinnamon, allspice and clove) on the finish. A blend of young and older whiskies that pushes the flavor forward and magnifies the unique profile of the grain. Proofed to 92%, Redemption Rye maintains all of its spicy complexity, while still managing to taste exceptionally smooth. Ideal for sipping or mixing in classic cocktails such as a Manhattan, Sazerac or Boulevardier.

Mash bill: 95% rye, 5% barley

Redemption Bourbon: 84 Proof; $29.99 SRP

A high amount of corn gives this American bourbon a classic sweet taste while the wood imparts notes of vanilla, butterscotch, toffee and caramel. The rye adds light spice flavors paired with a hint of citrus in the form of orange peel. Bottled at 84 proof for a lighter and smoother experience; enjoy on the rocks or in mixed drinks.

Mash bill: 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% barley

Redemption High Rye Bourbon: 92 Proof; $29.99 SRP

mash bill, creating a rye-forward bourbon that is 92% proof. Dynamic balance of sweet and dry; enjoy neat or in classic cocktails such as an Old Fashioned.

Mash bill: 60% corn, 36% rye, 4% barley

About Redemption Whiskey

Redemption Whiskey, founded in 2010, was created when a cache of rye whiskey barrels, believed to be the perfect expression of the American spirit, were found, just as the Rye category was beginning to reemerge. Distinctive for its high rye content, high proof, quality aging and blending techniques, the whiskey is sourced in Indiana at the Old Seagram’s Distillery (now owned by MGP Ingredients). A combination of high rye content and high proof allows the whiskey to gain significant flavor in new charred oak barrels. Each bottle of Redemption whiskey is hand numbered to reflect the batch, an indication of the attention to detail put into making the final product. For more information visit: http://www.redemptionrye.com/ and follow on Instagram @RedemptionWhiskey.

About Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits

Initially called W.J. Deutsch & Sons, Ltd., the company was founded in 1981 by Chairman Bill Deutsch to market quality wines produced by prestigious families from major wine regions of the world. In 2009, it announced the expansion of the award-winning company to include a Spirits Portfolio. Today the company is renowned for its brand-building prowess and its ability to meet the needs of the modern consumer. Bill’s son Peter Deutsch is CEO; thus two generations of the Deutsch family work side by side in their continuous quest to build strong brands and relationships throughout the wine and spirits industry.

The portfolio includes award-winning wines from Australia: [ yellow tail ], [ yellow tail ] The Reserve, [ yellow tail ] Bubbles; California: Eppa SupraFruta Sangria, Girard Winery, Kunde Family Estate, Joseph Carr, Josh Cellars, The Calling; France: Andre Lurton, Hob Nob Vineyards, Sauvion et Fils, Vidal- Fleury; Italy: Barone Fini, Villa Pozzi; New Zealand: The Crossings; Portugal: Quinta Do Vale Meao; Spain: Mar De Frades, Cruz de Alba, and Ramon Bilbao Vinos Y Vinedo; Argentina: Ruta 22, and award-winning spirits from LUKSUSOWA Vodka (Poland), VILLA MASSA® Limoncello (Italy), LICOR 43® (Spain) and REDEMPTION Whiskey (U.S.A.). www.deutschfamily.com

Classic bourbon flavor with strong notes of rye and dry baking spices, vanilla and caramel flavors. A recipe that approaches the maximum amount of rye in a bourbon

Irish Distillers to invest €10m in production capacity at Midleton Distillery 

–          €10.5 million investment to support the Irish whiskey industry growth target of 300% by 2030

–          Investment will see Irish Distillers’ single pot still Irish whiskey capacity increase by over 30%

–          Three new copper pot stills to be commissioned and operational by June 2017

–          Project to support 60 jobs in Midleton during the construction phase 

Dublin, January 18^th 2017 – Irish Distillers, Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and producer of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, has today announced plans for a €10.5 million investment at Midleton Distillery, Cork which will see the company increase its single pot still Irish whiskey production capacity by over 30%. Three new copper pot stills will be installed at Midleton Distillery, ensuring that Irish Distillers continues to lead the global Irish whiskey renaissance and supporting the Irish Whiskey Association’s target of global growth of 300% by 2030. 60 jobs will be supported during the construction phase.

Irish whiskey is the fastest growing premium spirit globally and Irish Distillers has invested heavily to drive this growth. Since 2012, Irish Distillers has invested €120 million in the Midleton Distillery, €20 million at its Fox and Geese bottling facility in Dublin and is currently investing €100 million at its Dungourney maturation site. In August 2016, the company also announced an €11 million redevelopment project at the Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield, Dublin to showcase the best of Irish whiskey to the 600,000 whiskey tourists that come to Ireland every year.

Commenting on the latest investment, Jean-Christophe Coutures, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers said: “Irish whiskey continues to enjoy phenomenal global growth, led by Jameson with sales of 5.7 million cases in 2016. Irish Distillers has been driving the growth of the category since 1988, a commitment further underpinned by investments of over €230 million since 2012. With this additional investment of over €10 million at Midleton, the home of Irish whiskey, we will ensure that we are positioned to meet growing global demand and support the growth of Irish whiskey in the international spirits category.

“We are seeing growth accelerating across Jameson and the wider Single Pot Still Irish whiskey range and we will continue to direct our focus for growth here. With our increased production capacity, we are confident that the category will hit the ambitious targets set by the Irish Whiskey Association – increasing exports to 12 million cases by 2020 and 24 million cases by 2030.”

Paul Wickham, General Manager of Midleton Distillery added: “Single pot still Irish whiskey is the quintessential style of Irish whiskey which Irish Distillers saved from virtual extinction in the mid-1900s. Since then we have been investing to protect this traditional Irish whiskey and today’s announcement will help us grow Irish whiskey even further over the next 30 years and beyond.

“This investment will also see us increase our support for the wider Cork economy. All our barley comes from farms located within 100 miles of Midleton Distillery, supporting families who have produced barley for centuries. Using unmalted barley is a long-standing tradition of Irish whiskey and one which Irish Distillers continues, believing it contributes to the smooth characteristics of our products. At present, we spend €60 million annually on cereals, energy, capital projects and payroll in the local economy and this will increase with the installation of these new stills.”

The three copper pot stills, handmade by master coppersmiths Forsyth’s of Scotland and weighing a combined 24 tonnes, were delivered to Midleton Distillery this week. Installation has now commenced and the stills will be operational by June 2017.

Notes

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and producer of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys. Led by Jameson, our brands are driving the global renaissance of Irish whiskey. Jameson is the world’s fastest-growing Irish whiskey, experiencing 27 years of consecutive growth and hitting sales of 5.7m cases in 2016. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets, with over 60 of those experiencing double- or triple-digit growth.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Powers & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. In 2015, we completed a €220m investment which doubled our production and bottling capacity to meet global demand for our products.

We employ over 600 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin.

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s No. 2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin & Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard Pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier- Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 85 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics.

Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.

WILLIAM GRANT & SONS UK APPOINTS ALWYNNE GWILT

AS THE BALVENIE UK AMBASSADOR

11th January 2017: Independent family distillers, William Grant & Sons UK has today confirmed that whisky specialist, Alwynne Gwilt will take on the role of UK ambassador for The Balvenie Single Malt Scotch whisky, as of January 2017.

Joining William Grant & Sons UK in January 2016 as Whisky Specialist for the Ancient Reserves portfolio, Alwynne’s new role as The Balvenie UK ambassador will see her focus on generating brand advocacy and bridging communication between the brand and whisky drinkers, bars & restaurants, retailers, distributors and press.

Jonathan Cornthwaite, Head of Whisky at William Grant & Sons UK said: “Alwynne has a deep passion for whisky and the way it is made, which is why she is the perfect person to take on the UK ambassador role for The Balvenie, the most handcrafted single malt. With her wealth of unique experience, Alwynne will play a crucial role as the face of one of William Grant & Sons UK’s core brands. Alwynne will lead from the front to develop key relationships and initiatives to further enhance The Balvenie’s excellent reputation with whisky novices, enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, as well as with on-trade partners.”

Alwynne Gwilt said: “Many years ago, when I was just beginning my journey in whisky, The Balvenie distillery was one of the very first ones I visited. And because all of the processes are done on-site, it was the first time I really, truly ‘got’ whisky, the first time I understood its underlying heartbeat. I was utterly hooked! As such, I’m thrilled to be coming back to these early roots, to be able to speak about and share my love of this beautifully hand-crafted product with whisky lovers far and wide.”

Alwynne will take over from James Buntin who held the role since 2014.

Notes:

About Alwynne Gwilt

Alwynne comes with significant industry experience and is the founder and editor of whisky-focused website, Miss Whisky, named ‘Website to Watch’ in the Malt Whisky Yearbook 2016. Throughout her career Alwynne has written for numerous publications on whisky, been involved with consulting and training in the whisky sector, and run events in the UK and overseas, all of which earned her a place within the ‘Top 10 Women in Whisky’ as judged by The Drinks Business in 2014, and the title of ‘International Whisky Ambassador of the Year’ at the Spirit of Speyside Festival in 2013.

About The Balvenie:

 The Balvenie is a unique range of single malts created by David Stewart, The Balvenie Malt Master, who celebrates his 54th year at the distillery in 2016. Each has a very individual taste, but each is rich, luxuriously smooth and underpinned by the distinctively honeyed character of The Balvenie.

 The Balvenie is dedicated to the five rare crafts that are used to create The Balvenie’s distinctive taste. It is the only distillery that still grows its own barley, uses traditional floor maltings and keeps both coppersmiths and coopers on site – making The Balvenie the most handcrafted of malts.

 The Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whisky is produced by William Grant & Sons Ltd, an award-winning independent family-owned distiller founded by William Grant in 1886 and today run by his direct descendants.

About William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons Holdings Ltd is an independent family-owned distiller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the global premium spirits company is run by the fifth generation of his family and distils some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including the world’s most awarded single malt Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts and the world’s third largest blended Scotch, Grant’s®, as well as other iconic spirits brands such as Hendrick’s® Gin, Sailor Jerry®, Tullamore D.E.W. ® Irish Whiskey and Drambuie®.

Click on www.williamgrant.com for more information on the Company and its brands

THE WHISKY EXCHANGE MASTERCLASSES AT OLYMPIA HISTORIC!

Olympia Historic Automobile Fair & Auction

17-19 February 2017, Olympia, London

olympiahistoric.com 

The Olympia Historic Fair & Auction, in partnership with renowned auction house Coys, is London’s new luxury lifestyle event for owners and collectors of classic cars. Taking place on 17-19 February, the show will deliver an unforgettable experience for visitors with a series of features that range from a Coys Auction and Restoration Showcases to the Whisky Exchange Masterclasses and Fine Watch Room.

Run in partnership with The Whisky Exchange – the Whisky Masterclasses are a collection of fine whisky tasting sessions led by industry experts featuring top labels from around the world, from Johnnie Walker Blue Label to Japanese Nikka whisky.

New for 2017 – The Whisky Exchange Masterclasses in partnership with The Whisky Exchange

Johnnie Walker and the Chocolate Factory

Join experts in an exclusive tasting session of one of the world’s most popular blended whisky labels. Guests will be able to enjoy three of the finest Johnnie Walker whiskies, from the exquisite Blue Label to the indulgent Gold Label and Gold Label Reserve. The whiskies will be partnered by award winning luxury chocolates from London chocolatiers, Chococo.

Nikka Whisky with Stephanie Holt

Explore the multi-award winning Nikka range with a tasting of 5 whiskies from the company. Whisky expert Stephanie Holt will guide you through the nuances of a variety of single malt and blended whiskies known worldwide for their quality and flavour.

Kavalan Whisky with Stephanie Holt

Kavalan have made a big impact in the whisky world since they started distilling in 2006. This masterclass will be led by spirits expert Stephanie Holt who will conducting a tasting session of the award winning single malt whisky, known for its smooth and complex flavour.

Luxury Blending Session with Phil Huckle

Phil Huckle, brand ambassador for Pernod Ricards Scotch, will be showing you why it is a modern day myth that Blended Scotch is inferior to Single Malt. Guests will be able to taste premium luxury blends to discover the truth for themselves. On the menu will be Chivas Regal Extra / 18yr & 25yr plus Ballantines 17yr and Royal Salute 21yr.

Alwynne Gwilt – William Grant & Sons UK

Alwynne Gwilt is the UK Balvenie Brand Ambassador at William Grant & Sons UK. She got her start in whisky first through of a love of the liquid, and later through setting up the whisky blog, Miss Whisky. Alwynne will be guiding visitors through a selection of  Balvenie whiskies from the Single Barrel range, including the 12yo, 15yo and 25yo, plus a couple of extra treats along the way. 

Photo credits: The Whisky Exchange

All Whisky Masterclass tickets cost £45 in advance and include entry to the Olympia Historic Fair & Auction.

Please note, masterclasses are limited to 30 people per session so we recommend you book in advance to secure your place.

The Whisky Exchange Masterclasses are £55 on the door.

The Olympia Historic Automobile Fair & Auction, in partnership with renowned auction house Coys, is proud to announce its inaugural event taking place in London’s most prestigious event venue Olympia London on 17-19 February 2017.

Packed with inspiring features such as the Classic Car Rally Talk Theatre, The Restoration Showcase and Fine Watch Room, the event will provide a wealth of information and guidance on the world of historic automobiles. From concours restoration to provenance, whether you’re thinking of buying with the aim to enter the exciting world of classic racing or interested to know how to maximise your investment, this event will allow owners and collectors to both indulge in their passions and acquire their next historic automobile.

For more show details and to buy tickets please visit: olympiahistoric.com

Nicholson’s Pubs Celebrate Scotland with Burns Night and their Whisky Showcase

From Monday 23rd January, food and drink lovers across London are in for a treat as Nicholson’s pubs including The Elephant and Castle, The Princess of Wales, The Hoop and Grapes and The Henry Addington kick off 2017 with Burns Night celebrations and a whisky showcase. The traditional Burns Night menu will offer guests the chance to experience classic Scottish dishes in new and exciting ways, with the whisky showcase set to enable guests to explore whisky and find new favourites for 2017.

Burns Night

This January Nicholson’s Pubs will be celebrating the life of the Scottish poet Robert Burns in a truly traditional fashion with a two and three course set menu showcasing classic Scottish cuisine. Guests will be able to sample the Scottish dishes from Monday 23rd January until Sunday 29th January meaning Burns Night celebrations can continue all week.

Dishes will include traditional favourites such as Smoked Salmon served with Scottish oatcakes and chive sour cream, haggis, neeps & tatties, and to round off the meal, guests with a sweet tooth can enjoy a traditional Scottish cranachan served with honey, whisky raspberries and golden toasted oats.

Adding an extra warming winter twist on their experience, there’s also a whisky flight available for guests to add to their Burns Night celebration for just £5. This includes three 25ml measures of The Balvenie Doublewood 12 Year Old, Talisker Skye and Singleton Dufftown Spey Cascade, the perfect accompaniment to the traditional Scottish fayre.

The Whisky Showcase

The Burns Night festivities will form the start of a month-long celebration of all things whisky in Nicholson’s pubs with the inaugural Whisky Showcase commencing from 23rd January.

Over 30 whiskies will be available in London Nicholson’s Pubs until 19th February as part of the showcase and each pub will be bringing whisky to life in fun & interesting ways, and make it accessible to both the whisky newcomers and malt connoisseurs alike.

As well as an extended range of exciting whiskies, the showcase will be brought to life through events and masterclasses taking place across the Nicholson’s pubs throughout the month. These will include tasting events for beginners in conjunction with Fever-Tree, whisky pairing masterclasses with Macallan chocolate and virtual reality events where guests can take a tour of the Glenfiddich distillery from the comfort of their local pub.

Whether guests like their whisky straight up, on the rocks, or topped with cola, Nicholson’s wants to show guests how accessible and unique each whisky is, and help them discover their perfect serve.

Events

The Old Thameside Inn will be hosting the Glenfiddich Virtual Reality Distillery tour

The Flying Horse will be hosting the Fever Tree ‘beginners guide to whisky’ session, where guests will begin with perfect serves of whisky & coke, and whisky & ginger, before discovering its unique taste on its own.

The White Swan will be hosting the Arbelour tasting sessions where guests will discover the secrets behind double cask maturation.

The Argyll Arms will be hosting the Maxxium Whisky Masterclass, where guests will explore pairings with chocolate and ale.

The Sir Christopher Hatton will be hosting the Diageo Whisky Masterclass which will delve into the world of whisky, including the myths surrounding it, flavour mapping and exploring the Nicholson’s whisky collection.

Guests can also get involved online, as the Nicholson’s social media feeds will be full to the rim of interesting whisky facts, Burns Night quotes, offers competitions and much more. Follow @Nicholsonspubs and #NicholsonsWhiskyShowcase to stay updated with all things whisky!

To find out more about which Whisky Showcase events are happening in London or to review the Burns Night menu, visit the website at https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/burnsnightmenu and find your nearest Nicholson’s.

Twitter: @Nicholsonspubs

www.facebook.com/nicholsonspubs

Instagram: nicholsonspubs

Notes

About Nicholson’s

Founded in 1873 by William Nicholson; Nicholson’s Pubs extend across the UK with pubs in most major city centres locations. Nicholson’s prides itself on the colourful history and the striking architecture of each individually designed pub in the collection.

With a timeless atmosphere and character by the barrelful, it’s the perfect place to try an ale from the widest selection available, enjoy a gin from some of the most unique gin producers in the country and tuck into some hearty food. From an after work drink with colleagues, to having a drink with friends whilst visiting an historic city or enjoying a quality pub lunch or evening meal with family, every occasion can be a Nicholson’s one.

Find out more about your local Nicholson’s by visiting http://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/, following on twitter @Nicholsonspubs, or visiting the Facebook page www.facebook.com/nicholsonspubs

Ezra Brooks® Launches New Straight Rye

Brand Adds Rye Whiskey to Family Lineup 

(St. Louis) January 12, 2017 – The iconic brand Ezra Brooks® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has a new addition to its product lineup: Ezra Brooks® Straight Rye. The brand, which dates back to 1957 and has been a part of Luxco’s portfolio of whiskeys since 1993, will continue to provide variants for consumers that celebrate the modern gentleman in all of us.

Ezra Brooks Straight Rye, a genuine straight rye whiskey, is made from the finest ingredients available and bottled at an honest 90 proof. This rye whiskey offers slightly sweet and oaky tones with a warm, spicy finish – making it perfect for crafting classic cocktails or enjoying on the rocks. It is available nationally starting this month in 750ml and 50ml bottles.

“In the past 12 months, we have seen rapid growth in the rye category, up 27 percent*, which indicates consumers are interested in more rye whiskey products,” says Fletcher Buchman, brand manager at Luxco. “Ezra Brooks’ recent packaging refresh has elevated the brand to the same high-quality of the bourbon found inside the bottle.”

Ezra Brooks’ updated look includes a new corked bottle with a premium matte-finish closure capsule. In addition, a higher end label offers the bottle a craftier look and feel. The brand has recently earned top honors at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, taking Gold for Old Ezra Seven Year and Silver for both Ezra Brooks Black Label and Ezra B 12 Year Single Barrel in 2015.

The brand family – all offered in 750ml bottles and ranging in suggested retail prices of $11.99 to $26.99 – includes:

n  Ezra Brooks Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, bottled at 90 proof and offering a mellow flavor with hints of spice and chocolate and a smooth finish.

n  Old Ezra Seven Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, bottled at 101 proof and aged a full seven years for a buttery long finish and deep, rich taste.

n  Ezra Brooks Bourbon Cream, bottled at 25 proof and offering a rich caramel and toffee flavor with a smooth, creamy finish.

n  Ezra Brooks Blended Whiskey, bottled at 80 proof and offering a genuine Kentucky sour mash recipe with a light, warm finish.

Lux Row Distillers – a new distillery experience currently being built in Bardstown, Kentucky – will be the future home of Ezra Brooks, along with other Luxco bourbon brands. To follow the progress of the construction and for more information, please visit www.luxrowdistillers.com/, as well as Facebook and Instagram pages.

For more information about Ezra Brooks, please visit www.ezrabrooks.com/

*Source: NABCA 9L R12 through September 2016.

For more information, please contact:

Pia Reinhold at preinhold@commongroundpr.com

Kelsey Arends at karends@commongroundpr.com

About Luxco

Luxco, Inc. is a leading producer, importer and marketer of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of our consumers, associates and business partners. Founded in St. Louis in 1958, where it is headquartered, it is owned and operated by the Lux family. Its portfolio of brands include: Juarez Tequila & Triple Sec, Pearl Vodka, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Arrow Cordials, El Mayor Tequila, Ezra Brooks & Rebel Yell Bourbons, Lord Calvert Canadian Whisky, St. Brendan’s Irish Cream, Salvador’s Cocktails, Yago Sant’ gria and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company, visit www.luxco.com/.

Chicago Cubs and Jim Beam® Bourbon Announce Legacy Partnership

CHICAGO – Two American icons are converging as Jim Beam® Bourbon, the world’s No. 1 bourbon, and the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs have signed a multi-year Legacy Partnership beginning in 2017.

In the history-making pairing, the Cubs have named Chicago-based Beam Suntory, the world’s third largest premium spirits company, as the Official Spirits Partner of the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field. The exclusive distilled spirits sponsorship will feature multiple brands from Beam Suntory including Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark® Bourbon, EFFEN® Vodka and Hornitos® Premium Tequila.

As part of the partnership, Jim Beam will have long-term naming rights to the new first base club at Wrigley Field, as well as a new left field bar concept at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona. The upper deck patio at Wrigley Field will feature a Jim Beam theme for two seasons leading up to the space’s transition to an upper level club. The existing Hornitos Hacienda, which was named in 2015, will remain in the left field bleachers. The deal also includes in-game signage behind home plate and on the Wrigley Field video board; fixed signage along the third base wall; presenting sponsorship of several promotional giveaways throughout the season; and other digital and hospitality activations at Wrigley Field and Sloan Park.

To reinforce this partnership with Cubs fans, Maker’s Mark has launched a Chicago Cubs-themed, limited-edition bottle offered in stores throughout the Chicagoland area; Jim Beam will release a Chicago Cubs co-branded offering by springtime. The announcement comes on the heels of Beam Suntory’s global headquarters move from Deerfield, Illinois, to downtown Chicago in the last month, and unites America’s favorite pastime with its native spirit.

“This dynamic partnership underscores our focus on the City of Chicago, our company’s new hometown, and our broader efforts to be where our consumers work and play,” said Beam Suntory CEO Matt Shattock. “After a truly historic World Series, we’re thrilled to be the Official Spirits Sponsor of the 2016 World Series Champions and can’t wait to make history with Cubs fans for years to come.”

“Our organization and fans value partners who have a strong commitment to Chicago,” said Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney. “Jim Beam has made its commitment clear by calling Chicago home and making an investment in the Cubs to help ensure our long-term success. We’re thrilled to welcome Beam Suntory as a Legacy Partner and know our fans will enjoy their premium spirits at the Friendly Confines.”

Beam Suntory becomes the 11th Legacy Partner of the Chicago Cubs, joining Advocate Health Care, American Airlines, Anheuser-Busch, ATI Physical Therapy, Nuveen, Sloan Valve Company, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Toyota, Under Armour and Wintrust.

About Beam Suntory, Inc.

As the world’s third largest premium spirits company, Beam Suntory is Crafting the Spirits Brands that Stir the World. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark bourbon brands and Suntory whisky Kakubin, as well as world-renowned premium brands including Knob Creek bourbon, Yamazaki, Hakushu and Hibiki Japanese whiskies, Teacher’s, Laphroaig, and Bowmore Scotch whiskies, Canadian Club whisky, Courvoisier cognac, Hornitos and Sauza tequila, EFFEN and Pinnacle vodka, Sipsmith Gin and Midori liqueur.

Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative spirit and commitment to Growing for Good. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.