Laphroaig 30 Year Old 2016 Edition

£948.28

Laphroaig 30 Year Old 1985 vintage Islay single malt Scotch whiskey. 2016 limited edition double matured in ex-bourbon barrels. Laphroaig Distillery was established in 1815 on the rocky south coast of the Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland. This malt whiskey distillery continues to malt barley using its traditional malting floors and malt kiln. In 1994 the distiiley was awarded the Royal Warrant. The core range is quite extensive and supplemented by limited releases including a 21 year old was issued in 2015 to celebrate 21 years of Friends of Laphroaig. Independent bottlings are also available from Signatory, Cooper’s Choice and Hunter Laing. Laphroaig distillery also participates in Feis Ile, the Islay Festival of Malt and Music.

LONGMORN UNVEILS LUXURY PORTFOLIO OFFERING

Introduction of Longmorn 23 Year Old and a definitive new reinterpretation of the iconic Longmorn 16 Year Old completes single malt’s luxury portfolio

Longmorn single malt Scotch whisky has unveiled two new expressions to complete the Longmorn portfolio; Longmorn 23 Year Old and a luxurious reinterpretation of the renowned Longmorn 16 Year Old. The bottlings join Longmorn The Distiller’s Choice in the line-up, offering Scotch whisky connoisseurs around the world the ultimate single malt Scotch whisky experience that pushes the boundaries of luxury, quality and craftsmanship.

The new Longmorn 23 Year Old is the culmination of more than two decades of maturation in the finest traditional oak casks, chosen to complement the soft, creamy and rich flavour profile of the Longmorn spirit. Longmorn 23 Year Old is the peak interpretation of the distillery’s inimitable character and is bottled without chill-filtration, offering flavour notes of ripe pear and soft red apples that give way to a long, smooth finish. The expression is available at the RRP of $1,450.

The definitive Longmorn 16 Year Old is now the ultimate version of what made the classic expression so revered; crafted using a higher proportion of rare first-fill American oak casks, the new Longmorn 16 Year Old offers a more luxurious mouth-feel, drinking experience and increased smooth, vanilla flavour notes. Rested in a combination of ex-sherry, American and traditional oak casks and still bottled without chill-filtration, Longmorn 16 Year Old has an enriched flavour profile of ripe orchard fruits, sweet vanilla and smooth milk chocolate and is available at the RRP of $252.

Founded in 1894, the Longmorn Distillery has a rich history of crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whiskies. Built during the golden age of industry, its founder John Duff ensured it would emblemise his pioneering insight into craft distilling and use the latest technology available. Established to cater for a growing appetite for fine whisky and luxury, each bottle of Longmorn single malt reflects this dedication to innovation and excellence and has been crafted to offer the ultimate luxury Scotch whisky experience, the product of exceptional talent and precision.

As part of the renaissance of Longmorn today, each expression in the range is presented in distinctive packaging that better befits its quality and reputation; the glass bottles have high, broad shoulders, a long pouring neck and are largely transparent to showcase the quality of the whisky inside. Other modern luxury cues reflect the golden era of luxury and the Industrial Revolution, when the distillery was founded. Longmorn 23 Year Old, is presented in a lacquered wooden gift box, underpinning the indulgence of the portfolio.

The completion of the Longmorn range follows the release of Longmorn The Distiller’s Choice in January 2016, whose name was inspired by the legend that Longmorn was every distiller’s favourite dram apart from their own. Longmorn The Distiller’s Choice offers a new way to enjoy the renowned classic toffee flavours found within the spirit from the distillery and has been well-received in 27 markets to date. The introduction of the Longmorn range is set to excite luxury spirits drinkers and is in response to an increasing demand for the most indulgent Scotch whiskies.

Trevor Buckley, Longmorn Master Distiller, adds: “It is a great honour to be able to share two new prized creations from the Longmorn Distillery, Longmorn 23 Year Old and Longmorn 16 Year Old. The craft production methods at Longmorn have not changed since the days of John Duff and today we reap the rewards of this commitment, as they have allowed us to push the boundaries of quality and luxury in Scotch whisky.

“Longmorn 16 Year Old has long been a firm favourite among Scotch whisky connoisseurs, but we wanted to make it even more luxurious than it was before and the Longmorn team has certainly achieved this. Similarly, Longmorn 23 Year Old offers the pinnacle presentation of the inimitable Longmorn spirit and provides the ultimate luxury Scotch whisky experience. I very much look forward to seeing whisky connoisseurs the world over discover one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets and I hope they enjoy these new expressions of this Speyside icon.”

Miriam Eceolaza, Longmorn Brand Director at Chivas Brothers, comments: “Through the addition of Longmorn 23 Year Old and the new Longmorn 16 Year Old, we are excited to unveil the newly complete Longmorn range to Scotch whisky aficionados around the world as it represents the ultimate luxury Scotch whisky experience from the distillery. Building on the unmistakable characteristics of excellence laid down by John Duff, who founded the distillery in the late 19th Century, the new Longmorn family has pushed the boundaries of luxury and quality and offers a new journey of discovery for discerning drinkers through the prestige whisky category – it’s certainly Longmorn’s time to shine.”

NOTES EDITORS

Longmorn 16 Year Old tasting notes (48% ABV)
Nose: Stewed orchard fruits, layered with indulgent notes of sweet vanilla crème brûlée
Taste: The palate is rewarded with the rich flavours of ripe fruity pears and luxuriously smooth, creamy milk chocolate
Finish: Full-flavoured and exquisitely drawn out

Longmorn 23 Year Old tasting notes (48% ABV)
Nose: Soft vanilla fudge and creamy caramel, dipped in milk chocolate and honey
Taste: The taste leads with ripe pears and sweet red apples interlaced with tantalizingly spiced ginger cake
Finish: An exceptionally long and velvety smooth finish. A fitting reward for the patience and perfection that its founder put into its creation

About Longmorn
Founded in 1894 by pioneering Scotsman, John Duff, Longmorn is the ultimate luxury single malt whose spirit is revered for producing a Scotch whisky with a unique depth and intensity. In setting up the distillery, Duff embraced the philosophy of intelligent luxury to combine the adventure, ambition and craft of the late 19th Century with emerging technologies to create a whisky for the growing luxury appetite. Known as the best-kept secret in Scotland, Longmorn has long been considered top class by whisky distillers, blenders and connoisseurs.

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; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasbrothers.com

@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, 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.
www.pernod-ricard.com

BALLANTINE’S LAUNCHES THE SECOND ‘ARTIST SERIES’ WITH THREE LIMITED EDITION GIFT PACKS

DESIGNED BY MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTOR AND PHOTOGRAPHER, DAVE MA

Ballantine’s, the world’s No. 2 Scotch whisky, has partnered with renowned music video director and photographer, Dave Ma, to launch three new limited e dition gift packs for 2016. Created to champion inspiring and innovative individuals who are committed to expressing their creativity in unique ways, for its second year Ballantine’s Artist Series gift packs showcase Dave Ma’s unique perspective of Scotland, the home of the whisky, in a series of stunning aerial photographs.

Moving to London from the beaches of Sydney a decade ago to pursue a career in music photography and video direction, Dave Ma started a ‘zine’ to showcase his work with emerging bands. Dave has worked with some of today’s most exciting music artists, including Bastille and Rudimental, however his repertoire extends well beyond music photography, with a newly discovered passion for capturing aerial landscape photographs.

Travelling around the world, Dave began to realise that the best TV screen was his aeroplane window . This kick-started a desire to shoot aerial views whilst flying, and, after realising that by playing with the colours in his shots he could make terrains look ‘otherworldly’, his first series of aerial landscapes were featured on the Jagwar Ma single artwork for Come Save Me.

To push his landscape images of the Scottish Highlands beyond realism, Dave reworked his striking photographs for the Ballantine’s Finest Sleeve and Tin with a bold two-tone colour palette to reflect the energy and youthful personality of the Finest blend. For the first time, tactile technology has been used on the Ballantine’s Finest Sleeve to reflect the look and feel of the rugged terrain of this corner of Scotland. For the Ballantine’s 12 Year Old Tin, Dave added depth to his stunning photograph with a rich blue colour palette to reflect the complexity of flavours in this distinguished 12 year old blend.

Dave Ma said of the collaboration: “I was ultimately drawn to working with Ballantine’s for the excitement of doing something completely different, that would still represent my artistic style. It was awe-inspiring to see that part of Scotland, and to be able to shoot a really unique perspective of that landscape. My focus was to capture the natural beauty of the terrain, but I wanted to move the images away from the all-too-familiar green landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and give each gift pack its own distinctive look, which reflected the personalities of each of the blends.”

Sophie Gallois, Global Marketing Director for Ballantine’s, added: “The Ballantine’s Artist Series champions unique individuals that ‘stay true’ to their creative style and Dave Ma is no exception. He captured the beauty of our Scottish heritage, resulting in these striking gift packs that will no doubt be a great addition to any whisky connoisseurs’ collection and complement last year’s designs as part of the Ballantine’s Artist Series collection.”

The 2016 Ballantine’s Artist Series Limited Edition gift packs will be available globally from October 2016.
For more information, visit Ballantines.com.

About Ballantine’s
Ballantine’s is the No.1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the No.2 Scotch whisky in the world with the range selling over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 130 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past ten years for its outstanding quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, continuing the brand’s tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827. In 2013, Ballantine’s continued its innovative approach by launching Ballantine’s Brasil, a spirit drink made from selectively cask steeping Scotch whisky with Brazilian lime peel.
www.ballantines.com

Twitter: @Ballantines

Facebook: facebook.com/ballantines

Twitter: twitter.com/ballantines

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

About Dave Ma
Dave Ma is a renowned photographer and music video director. The son of a greyhound racing trainer, he grew up part way between the beaches of Australia and the dog track. He first established himself after moving to London a decade ago, where he began collaborating with the band Foals, shooting numerous press campaigns and music videos for the band. He has since shot portraits and music videos for artists, icons and musicians including Nick Cave, Sonic Youth, Diplo, Skrillex, A$AP Rocky and Jagwar Ma. In addition to his celebrated work in the music industry, Dave Ma’s experience in shooting the intricate detail of different terrains aerially was an angle that inspired the designs for the 2016 Ballantine’s Artist Series. Dave Ma splits his time between Los Angeles and London.

About Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s No. 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 single malt whisky that set the standard; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasbrothers.com
@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, 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.
www.pernod-ricard.com

Twice as nice: anCnoc Single Malt Scotch Whisky unveils the 35-year-old second release limited edition 

Premium Single Malt Scotch Whisky, anCnoc has announced the limited edition release of its most exclusive bottling to date; the balanced and full-bodied 35-year-old second release.

The liquid is being introduced with just 670 bottles available globally.

Laid to rest for over three decades in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, the casks have been carefully chosen by distillery manager Gordon Bruce and master blender Stuart Harvey.

Giving rise to a unique dram that still retains its youthful edge; the 35 year old has top notes of lemon curd, green apples and cut flowers followed by honey sweetness, creamy toffee, leather and spice. Warming wood smoke makes for a fragrant and rich aroma.

On the palate, it is oily and full-bodied with caramel honey and fresh vanilla complementing the subtle smokiness and warm spice.

Continuing anCnoc’s modern tradition proposition and reputation for bringing a contemporary edge to the craft of fine whisky production, the 35 year old is packaged in an ice-white tube with minimal monochrome branding save for an illustration of the Knock Hill, through which the crystal clear highland spring runs and forms the heart of every anCnoc whisky. 

anCnoc brand manager Stephanie Bridge commented: “The 35 year old second release is a special expression for anCnoc, having been matured for more than three decades in our traditional dunnage warehouses which still retain their earthen floors and add so much to the quality and character of this special liquid The second release has lain in ex-bourbon barrels, offering fans something slightly different to the original expression. Our limited edition is a testament to the 35 year old’s popularity with whisky lovers worldwide and we’re confident that this unique release will entice drinkers to add it to their collections.”

Like all other anCnoc Single Malts, the 35 year old is bottled in its purest form at 41% ABV, neither chill-filtered nor coloured and is priced at £500 RRP for 70cl. Available globally now.

Notes

About anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is part of the Inver House Distillers portfolio, and is produced at Knockdhu Distillery – established in 1894 and one of the smallest and most enchanting in the Scottish Highlands. It is renowned the world over by malt enthusiasts for bringing a contemporary twist to the traditions of fine malt whisky, producing a single malt that is accessible and versatile for all occasions. Cutter has been ranked in the Liquid Gold category of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2016 with a score of 96.5 adding to anCnoc’s portfolio of award-winning expressions. Whiskies in this category are deemed by Jim Murray as “superstar whiskies that give us all a reason to live.” The anCnoc 18 year old was also awarded the title of Best Highland Single Malt in the 13-20 year old category at the World Whisky Awards 2016.

About International Beverage

International Beverage Holdings (http://www.interbevgroup.com/) was established in 2005 as the international arm of ThaiBev, one of South East Asia’s leading alcohol beverage companies. With a network of regional offices in Asia, Europe and North America, the company is responsible for the production, sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium global brands in over 80 countries and territories.

Inver House Distillers (http://www.inverhouse.com/) is globally integrated into International Beverage Holdings and drives the distillation and maturation of Scotch through its five distilleries.

International Beverage brands include:

• Chang Beer: Thailand’s iconic beer brand
• Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc, Speyburn
• Blended Whiskies: Hankey Bannister
• Mekhong: ‘The Spirit of Thailand’ since 1941
• Caorunn – a small batch distilled Scottish Gin infused with 5 Celtic botanicals
• The company’s success is built on the combination of a strong understanding of local cultures and markets with the creation of a truly global operational network. Brand building pays respect to heritage, provenance and craftsmanship whilst delivering innovative and highly effective strategies at global level. A skilled and dedicated team of more than 12 nationalities speaking over 14 languages delivers the highest standards of customer service and attention to detail across all aspects of the business.

The Art of Whisky

Glengoyne and Jolomo collaborate to support The Glasgow School of Art’s Mackintosh Campus Appeal

One of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, Glengoyne, is collaborating with one of the country’s best-loved contemporary artists to help contribute to The Glasgow School of Art Mackintosh Campus Appeal.

Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky has commissioned John Lowrie Morrison OBE, or Jolomo as he is known, to paint a collection of seasonal paintings inspired by Glengoyne Distillery. Each of the four paintings will be printed on limited edition whisky gift tins and released annually, with Glengoyne making a donation to The Mackintosh Campus Appeal, to help The Glasgow School of Art recover from the consequences of the 2014 fire in the Mackintosh building.

‘Autumn Moon over Glengoyne’ is the first in the series from Jolomo and was officially unveiled today (10 October) at The Glasgow School of Art in Renfrew Street. Each of the remaining three paintings will be released annually until 2019, when The Mackintosh Campus Appeal is due to conclude. The four-year collaboration is expected to raise approximately £50,000 for the Appeal.

Nestled into Dumgoyne Hill and with the mountains of Loch Lomond in the distance, Glengoyne is widely considered one of Scotland’s most beautiful distilleries. Just 14 miles north of Glasgow, Glengoyne sits on the border between Highland and Lowland whisky regions.

The limited edition tins, each containing a bottle of the classic 10 Year Old from Glengoyne, will be available to buy online for £35.49 from www.glengoyne.com/, from the distillery shop and specialist and independent retailers.

Neil Boyd, Commercial Director for Glengoyne said: “This is a wonderful collaboration and one which we are very proud to be part of. As one of Glasgow’s local whisky distilleries, we wanted to contribute to the recovery of this iconic building, helping to secure its legacy and future creative talent.

“Jolomo has been very enthusiastic about the project since the start and his first painting was completed earlier this year, inspired by autumn, with shades of orange and gold bursting from the canvas. As well as a number of limited edition whisky tins, the image will also be available in print from our website and distillery shop.

“We believe the Glengoyne 10 Year Old limited edition Jolomo whisky tins have global appeal and we will be working closely with the team at The Glasgow School of Art in launching the limited edition tins internationally.”

One of Scotland’s most celebrated contemporary painters for over 50 years, and a former student at The Glasgow School of Art, John Lowrie Morrison was immediately drawn to the project given his history with the school and his desire to help restore the damaged building.

Jolomo said: “When I was asked to be involved in this project with Glengoyne and The GSA, I jumped at the chance, not just because it was for our dear Mack’s restoration but because in 1967 when I was in my first year at the GSA, I spent some time sketching along the old Blane Valley Railway Line near my parent’s hut at Carbeth.

“Also in 1971, I won a Landscape Scholarship from The Royal Academy Schools London and spent part of my Scholarship time drawing and painting Dumgoyne Hill which I used for the painting. I just love the way the past connects with the present.”

The Mackintosh Building at The Glasgow School of Art was built between 1897 and 1909. Following the tragic fire in May 2014, The Mackintosh Campus Appeal was set up to provide philanthropic support to enable the School to recover.

Alan Horn, Director of Development responsible for The Mackintosh Campus Appeal, said: “We are delighted that Glengoyne has chosen to support The Mackintosh Campus Appeal through this project, and also delighted to continue our relationship with Jolomo who has already generously supported it in a variety of ways since 2014. The project to restore the Mackintosh Building authentically and sympathetically is a project that has great local significance but one which has also attracted huge international interest. We are most grateful that Glengoyne has chosen to make a financial commitment to this great endeavour over the next few years, and look forward to working with them and Jolomo.”

www.glengoyne.com/

www.drinkaware.co.uk www.scotch-whisky.org.uk

Notes to Editors:

About Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky:

Glengoyne, being uncompromising in its pursuit of excellence, runs its stills slower than any other distillery in order to create the rich, bold flavours for which the brand is known. The Glengoyne Highland Single Malt range is matured in the finest sherry casks from within its traditional dunnage warehouses.

About Glasgow School of Art:

The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) was founded in 1845 as one of the first Government Schools of Design, as a centre of creativity promoting good design for the manufacturing industries of Glasgow.  However, the School’s lineage can be traced to 1753, when Robert Foulis established a school of art and design in Glasgow, described as “the single most influential factor in the development of eighteenth-century Scottish Art”.  Today, The GSA is internationally recognised as one of Europe’s leading university-level institutions for the visual creative disciplines.

The studio-based approach to research and teaching brings disciplines together to explore problems in new ways to find new innovative solutions.  The studio creates the environment for inter-disciplinarily, peer learning, critical inquiry, experimentation and prototyping, helping to addressing many of the grand challenges confronting society and contemporary business.

http://www.gsa.ac.uk/

About Jolomo:

John Lowrie Morrison was born in Glasgow and trained at Glasgow School of Art. He worked in education for 25 years, taking up painting full-time in 1997. He lives and works in Argyll. He has been awarded honorary doctorates from the University of the West of Scotland and from the University of Abertay, Dundee. In 2011, he received an OBE for services to art and charity in Scotland. He was the subject of a major retrospective exhibition at Clydebank Town Hall Museum & Art Gallery in summer 2013, and a major show in the Mitchell Library, Glasgow, in November 2015. John and his wife Maureen are Vice Presidents of the charity Carers Trust, along with HRH The Princess Royal

NH Liquor Commission to Host One of the Largest Spirits Tasting Events on the East Coast

Distiller’s Showcase draws 1,000 people to sample 400 premium and ultra-premium spirits; three bottles of rare, Pappy Van Winkle 23yr bourbon to be auctioned

Concord, NH – With an expected capacity crowd of more than 1,000 guests and featuring more than 400 premium and ultra-premium spirits for sampling, the fourth annual Distiller’s Showcase of Premium Spirits will take place on Thursday, November 10, in Manchester, NH. Hosted by the New Hampshire Liquor Commission (NHLC), the world-class event is one of the largest spirits tasting events on the East Coast, featuring more than 140 tables of spirits, food from New Hampshire’s top restaurants, and the chance to meet brand ambassadors and distillers from around the globe, including Tito Beveridge, founder of Tito’s Handmade Vodka. In addition, guests this year will be able to bid on three bottles of the extremely rare Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr Kentucky straight bourbon.

Tickets cost $60 at http://distillersshowcase.com. The event will take place from 6:00 to 8:30 PM at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester with proceeds benefiting the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire.

“Whether you are an aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of premium spirits, the Distiller’s Showcase of Premium Spirits is the perfect opportunity to sample and purchase more than 400 of the world’s finest whiskies, tequilas, vodkas, rum and much, much more,” said NHLC Chairman Joseph Mollica. “Our commitment to offering our 11 million annual consumers access to unique and exclusive products has played a major role in burnishing the NH Liquor & Wine Outlet Brand and driving our sales to record-breaking heights. Last year, our total sales increased by $36.3 million to a record $678 million, which includes a 7.6-percent increase in spirits sales to $384.3 million.”

NHLC, which was named the third best state to buy bourbon by BreakingBourbon.com, developed the Distiller’s Showcase to give both spirit novices and aficionados the opportunity to explore their palettes through sampling hundreds of diverse spirits, including various styles of whiskey, Scotch, tequila, vodka, rum, gin, cordials and liqueurs. Many of the spirits available for sampling and purchase during the Distiller’s Showcase are only available at NHLC’s 79 NH Liquor & Wine Outlets. In addition to some of the world’s premium brands, several New Hampshire distillers, including Sea Hagg Distillery of North Hampton, Djinn Spirits of Nashua, Flag Hill Distillery of Lee, Tall Ship Distillery of Dover, New England Sweetwater Farm and Distillery of Winchester, Stark

Brewing Company of Manchester, Tamworth Distilling of Tamworth, and Smoky Quartz Distillery of Seabrook, will take part in the Distiller’s Showcase as well.

Distiller’s Showcase guests will be able to purchase spirits at a 10% savings through NHLC’s award-winning, state-of-the-art mobile ordering app and pick up their purchases at any one of the state’s 79 NH Liquor & Wine Outlets.

Coupled with the Distiller’s Showcase, NHLC teamed up with the New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association (NHLRA) for a Pappy Van Winkle Raffle & Exclusive Tasting Experience, which featured the chance to win a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr bourbon and a one-of-a-kind trip to New Hampshire for an exclusive Pappy Van Winkle tasting and fine dining experience. The prize package also included VIP access to the Distiller’s Showcase. Raffle proceeds will support NHLRA.

During the Distiller’s Showcase, guests will have the chance to bid on three bottles of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr bourbon. In the last three years, NHLC has auctioned seven bottles of the extremely rare Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23yr bourbon, raising more than $10,000 to support the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire. Guests this year will also have the chance to bid on an all-inclusive, trip-for-two to Scotland to experience the world’s most historic Scotch distilleries.

“The New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s tremendous buying power enables us to deliver exclusive opportunities to consumers,” Chairman Mollica continued. “In addition to events like the Distiller’s Showcase, we have hand-selected and purchased a record 16 barrels of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel for our customers, walked through the rack houses of Jim Beam’s distillery in Clermont, KY to secure eight barrels of Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve, and acquired the only existing barrel in the world of a rare 16 year Aberfeldy Single Cask Scotch Whisky named the 7th best whisky of 2014 by Whisky Advocate.”

Previously, the Distiller’s Showcase has provided the opportunity to sample limited release BenRiach, Glendronach and Aberfeldy single cask single malt scotch whiskies, and interact with the likes of Chris Fletcher, Assistant Master Distiller at Jack Daniel Distillery, Alasdair Day, owner of Tweeddale Blend, and Elayne Duff, Diageo USA’s luxury brand mixologist. A list of 2016 participants is available at www.distillersshowcase.com.

The Distiller’s Showcase features silent auctions, raffles, and delicious food from top New Hampshire restaurants, including Amphora Fine Greek Dining, Bedford Village Inn, Campo Enoteca, Faro Italian Grille, Giorgio’s Ristorante, Ignite Bar & Grille and Hooked Seafood Restaurant, JD’s Tavern, O Steaks & Seafood, Canoe Restaurant & Tavern, Republic Cafe, Stark Brewing Company, Stella Blu, The Common Man, the New Hampshire Food Bank’s RFS, Culinary Job Training Program, The Fresh Market, The Quill Restaurant at Southern New Hampshire University, Tuscan Kitchen, Veranda Martini Bar and Grille, the Wild Rover Pub, and XO on Elm.

In addition, this past summer Tito’s Handmade Vodka, which has demonstrated a profound commitment to animals and animal rescue through its “Vodka for Dog People” effort, and Martignetti Companies of New Hampshire made a commitment to donate $1 for every Tito’s Handmade Vodka & Lemonade drink sold this summer at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford. Tito Beveridge will present a significant donation to the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire to kick-off the Distiller’s Showcase.

The Distiller’s Showcase has raised more than $152,000 to support the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire over the past three years. The Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, which helps more than 2,200 animals each year, will use this funding to support general operating expenses, as 73-percent of the League’s operating budget goes to general animal care and medical expenses.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we receive through the Distiller’s Showcase of Premium Spirits,” said Monica Zulauf, president & CEO of the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire. “The Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire does not receive any state or federal funding, and we are dependent upon community support from businesses and community members alike. This critical support will have a major impact on our ability to help pets and the people who care for them.”

NHLC has worked with suppliers and brokers to raise $720,000 for nonprofit organizations making an impact in New Hampshire during the past three years. In addition to the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, Homes for Our Troops, Operation Care for Troops, Easter Seals New Hampshire, Toys for Tots, New Hampshire Food Bank, Granite United Way, Concord Hospital and the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of New Hampshire have all benefitted from NHLC’s support.

NHLC is encouraging guests to imbibe responsibly and will feature a Brown-Forman social responsibility area. The Radisson Hotel Manchester is offering a special “sip and stay” package and a safe ride home program from Grace Limousine. Visit www.distillersshowcase.com for more information.

DistillersShowcase2: Along with sampling from more than 400 premium and ultra-premium spirits, the New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Distiller’s Showcase of Premium Spirits also offers the capacity crowd of more than 1,000 guests the chance to meet brand ambassadors and distillers from around the globe, including Tito Beveridge, founder of Tito’s Handmade Vodka. The event, which is one of the largest spirit tasting events on the East Coast, will take place on Thursday, November 10, at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester, NH. Photo by Susan Laughlin.

THE MACALLAN DOUBLE CASK 12 YEARS OLD

Two worlds unite to create distinctive new Macallan 

The Macallan’s unwavering commitment to exceptional wood management defines every aspect of its whisky creation and the launch of the new Double Cask 12 Years Old is further testament to this.

Created from the perfect balance of sherry seasoned European and American oak casks, Double Cask 12 Years Old brings a distinctive character to the fore, whilst presenting flavours familiar to both the Sherry Oak and Fine Oak ranges. The result is a new interpretation of the signature 12 Years Old Macallan; sweet, yet balanced and honeyed in character.

Exclusively sherry seasoned, The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old delivers a distinct American oak style, reflecting a perfect harmony of flavours and natural colour. The delicate flavour of American oak – vanilla, citrus and light oak – rises in prominence as the traditional Macallan character of rich fruit, sherry and wood spice affords a familiar back drop.

Commenting on Double Cask, Bob Dalgarno, The Macallan Master Whisky Maker, said: “This is a single malt which showcases a true balance of character which results in a fully rounded and distinctive flavour profile. By combining wood influences, we have been able to produce a new Macallan which sits perfectly between our existing Sherry Oak and Fine Oak ranges.”

The Macallan brings new oak from America across thousands of miles to Spain, where casks are crafted and sherry seasoned before traveling to our distillery on Speyside to mature for twelve years. These whiskies are then harmoniously united with those aged in exceptional sherry seasoned European oak casks.  This union reveals an unmatched investment in time and extraordinary commitment to mastery for which The Macallan has been known since 1824.

Chris Anderson, Luxury Marketing Controller for Maxxium UK, said: “The Macallan Double Cask provides us with the opportunity to offer the trade an additional variant and importantly, a new style of The Macallan at the 12 years old position and price. In turn this means we can offer the consumer a wider choice of products at this level, and encourage trial and exploration within The Macallan portfolio.”

The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old is available from October 2016 in specialist whisky retailers for an RRP £55 and select on trade accounts across London. 

Notes  

The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old (ABV 40%) tasting notes

Nose – Creamy butterscotch, toffee, candied orange and newly felled oak

Palate – Balanced, honey sweetness, citrus & caramel

Finish – Oak lingers, warm, sweet & drying 

About The Macallan: 

Founded in 1824, The Macallan is one of the worlds most admired and awarded single malt whiskies. The reputation of The Macallan is based on a product of outstanding quality and distinctive character, founded upon a set of guiding principles, the Six Pillars.  An obsession with quality has been the hallmark of The Macallan since its founding by Alexander Reid on a plateau above the river Spey in north-east Scotland. The distillery is surrounded by a 150 hectare estate, with Easter Elchies House, a Highland manor built in 1700, at its heart.

Traditionally known for maturation in Spanish oak, sherry seasoned casks, The Macallan’s range of outstanding single malts includes: Sherry Oak, matured in Spanish oak casks seasoned with sherry; Fine Oak, matured both in sherry casks of Spanish and American oak and in American oak casks seasoned with bourbon; the 1824 range, exclusive to Global Travel Retail. In addition, The Macallan is well known for its great range of vintage whiskies, dating back to 1926, and is considered the most sought after of all single malts among collectors and connoisseurs at auction.

http://www.themacallan.com/

5,000 Bottles Over 5 Years. The Birmingham Whisky Club Celebrates Its 5^th Birthday.

Since 2011 the club has built up a loyal following of 1000’s of whisky lovers, drank through 5,000 bottles of whisky over 200 different events, worked with over 70 different brands and tried products from 10+ different counties. As well as introducing consumers to the wonders of whisky, the club has worked tirelessly to introduce brands to bars and get a larger variety of whisky stocked in local venues to push the category to prominence in the city. Now, The Birmingham Whisky Club celebrates 5 years of bringing whisky to Birmingham in the best way it can… With 5 new unique events.

On November 3rd, the club will be hosting a very special tasting to start the festivities. They will be working with The Electric Cinema (the UK’s oldest working cinema) and independent bottlers Douglas Laing for a ‘drink-along’ screening of Ken Loach’s ‘The Angel’s Share’.

Throughout the celebrations, events will be held with Chivas (a collaboration tasting themed on the history of whisky blending and bespoke tailoring at Clements & Church), whisky legends such as Highland Park and Glenfiddich and finishing with their 5th annual ‘Peat Freaks’ tasting at The Wellington.

Amy Seton (owner of The Birmingham Whisky Club) had this to say, “I started the club 5 years ago to share my love of the ‘Water Of Life’ with the people of Birmingham. Since our very first tasting in December 2011, we have seen over 4,500 people at our events, tasted whisk(e)y from over 10 different countries and drank our way through around 5,000 bottles. We have worked with dozens of fantastic brands and great independent venues and shared some knowledge on the way.”

October has also seen the release of tickets for the club’s much-loved flagship event… Whisky Birmingham. The festival (now in it’s fourth year) will be held on Saturday March 4th 2017 at the beautiful canal-side location of The Bond in Digbeth. As well as a chance to try hundreds of different kinds of whisk(e)y, guests can enjoy delicious local streetfood, live entertainment and innovative masterclasses throughout the day.

For more information on The Birmingham Whisky Club’s upcoming events, head to their Facebook page. Further details about Whisky Birmingham 2017 can be found at www.birminghamwhiskyfestival.co.uk/.

Notes to editors

For information about The Birmingham Whisky Club please visit www.thebirminghamwhiskyclub.co.uk/ or contact Amy Seton on 07966 266511 or email Vicky@birminghamwhiskyclub.co.uk.

About The Birmingham Whisky Club

The Birmingham Whisky Club is Birmingham’s only dedicated whisky tasting events company. We offer a diverse range of tutored tastings and whisky-themed events in and around Birmingham, including themed and rare whisky night’s, events with distilleries, whisky and food matching, and private and corporate events. We welcome everyone, from complete beginners to the more hardened whisky buff.

Visit our webpage www.thebirminghamwhiskyclub.co.uk/ or find us on Facebook.

London based IWSC Group becomes the leading organiser of Whisky Festivals in the US

London based IWSC Group, the leading organiser of whisky events in the UK through its partnership with The Whisky Lounge, has today announced its acquisition of the US based Whisky Extravaganza. The addition of this business takes the total number of whisky events in IWSC Group’s US portfolio to 15, and secures its position as the leading organiser of whisky festivals on both sides of the Atlantic.

The Whisky Extravaganza was established in 1993 by Madeleine and Alan Shayne and hosts events in 10 cities across the US. Attendees to the events range from newcomers seeking their induction into the ancient craft of distilling to those who already have an appreciation of the art of whisky making.

Group CEO of the IWSC Group, Allen Gibbons, comments: “We’re pleased to welcome the Whisky Extravaganza into our portfolio; it’s a step that demonstrates our ongoing commitment to helping build closer ties between the whisky industry and those who enjoy its products.”

Madeleine Shayne, President of the Whisky Extravaganza adds: “For the past 23 years, Alan and I have had the opportunity of bringing the world of whiskies to the palettes of enthusiasts throughout North America and we are honoured to have the prestigious IWSC Group take our dream to the next level. We feel The Whisky Extravaganza fits perfectly into IWSC Group’s ever-growing portfolio of food and beverage events in the USA.”

The Whisky Extravaganza currently holds events in Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and Washington DC. Each event achieves a balance of top quality whisky with a complementing food menu, and provides guests with the opportunity to discuss and debate whisky in all its complexity.

Allen Gibbons concludes: “The US is the world’s second largest whisky market by volume so the opportunity is considerable. We are keen to continue to tell the story of whisky to enthusiasts and newcomers alike, helping whisky companies to engage with more people on a deeper level; The Whisky Extravaganza takes us further on this journey.”

For more information and images, please contact Jana Pavelkova, jana@thinktank.org.uk and Umika Verma, umikav@thinktank.org.uk at The Think Tank – +44 (0) 207 831 2225.

About IWSC Group

IWSC Group is a world leading events company with a simple and compelling vision “to delight, inspire, and connect people through great experiences”, a vision they are realizing through building an enviable network of entrepreneurs and partners.

Headquartered in the UK and with its North American office in the U.S. City of Atlanta, the business was founded as the International Wine and Spirit Competition in 1969 and now extends to alcoholic beverage competitions, tastings and events in culinary and the arts across North America, Europe and Asia.

The business has been built on creating and developing partnerships with entrepreneurs and not for profit organisations to further develop their businesses, for example Cochon 555 US Tour, Sugar Land Wine and Food Affair, The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival and Moniker Art Fair as well as collaborating with some of the world’s biggest brands including Amazon, Coca Cola, Stella Artois and Lexus. 

About The Whisky Extravaganza

The Whisky Extravaganza is hosted in 10 cities across the United States and sponsored by The Robb Report and Evian Water. The gala event is open to anyone who loves or is interested in learning about whisky.

New Limited Edition High Rye Bourbon

Released by 1792 Distillery   

BARDSTOWN, kENTUCKY (Oct. 6, 2016) – Barton 1792 Distillery releases another expression in its line-up of 1792 whiskeys, 1792 High Rye Bourbon. The flagship product of the collection, 1792 Small Batch, is well known for using a higher percentage of rye than most bourbons, but this special edition High Rye Bourbon brings an even more intense amount of rye to the mash bill. Although very limited, expect to see annual releases of this robust bourbon after its initial release this fall.

1792 High Rye Bourbon was distilled in May of 2008, and aged for a little more than eight years on the second floor of Warehouse K at the historic Barton 1792 Distillery before it was bottled at 94.3 proof.

Tasting notes for this bourbon describe it as “starting off with a lightly noticeable but balanced indication of smooth butterscotch, light vanilla, and orange peel.  The pallet introduces hints of anise and black pepper but centers around the explosive spiciness of rye that increases, yet balances out on the surprisingly smooth finish.”

This is the fifth limited edition release of 1792 Bourbon expressions, the High Rye joins previous releases of Sweet Wheat, Port Finish, Single Barrel and Full Proof Bourbons. The 1792 High Rye Bourbon will be available at retail starting in late October. Suggested retail pricing is $35.99 for a 750 mL.

About Barton 1792 Distillery

Barton 1792 Distillery is part of Barton Brands.  Barton Brands has facilities in Bardstown, Ky., Carson, Calif., and Baltimore, Md. Barton Brands is owned by the Sazerac Company, an American family-owned company based in New Orleans, LA. Barton 1792 Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operating Distillery in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Distillery is located on 196 acres and includes 28 warehouses, 22 other buildings, the Morton Spring and the Tom Moore Spring.  Distilling, aging and bottling fine Bourbon whiskey are hallmarks of the historic Barton 1792 Distillery. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is produced at Barton 1792 Distillery. This whiskey is named for the year Kentucky became a state and is the recent gold medal winner at the 2015 Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits Competition. To learn more visit www.1792bourbon.com/