Wyoming Whiskey Releases a Straight American Whiskey

Kirby, WY (Oct. 4, 2016) – Wyoming Whiskey has created Outryder, a Straight American Whiskey, for this fall. Outryder, represents their first use of rye, along with corn and malted barley, to craft a straight whiskey from two distinct mash bills. These two whiskies were laid down in November of 2011 at the behest of co-founder David DeFazio. The first mash bill contains 48% winter rye, 40% corn, and 12% malted barley and the second reflects a traditional bourbon mash bill of 68% corn, 20% winter rye, and 12% malted barley. All grains are non-GMO and grown in the Big Horn Basin of Wyoming. 

Wyoming Whiskey Distiller, Sam Mead, with the tasting input of industry specialist and connoisseur, Nancy Fraley, fine-tuned the new creation. 

Fraley gave Outryder excellent marks, “I’m absolutely loving this ‘rye!’ I have to say that it is my favorite Wyoming Whiskey product.” According to Fraley, Outryder has an initial nose of creamy browned butter with cinnamon, clove and allspice, along with freshly baked, dark-rye bread. Hints of orange blossom honey are on the palate. A long, spicy rye finish is coupled with hints of buttery toffee.

“While bourbon continues to be our focus, it is important to show that a variety of great whiskies can be made in Wyoming,” commented Co-Founder, David DeFazio. “Outryder is the spicier brother of our Small Batch Bourbon and has quickly become a favorite among our distilling team.”

Outryder will join the award-winning Small Batch Bourbon, Single Barrel Bourbon, and Barrel Strength Bourbon Whiskey offerings in the Wyoming Whiskey portfolio. A total of 2,640 cases of Outryder will be available for purchase throughout the U.S. at the suggested price of $54.99 beginning in mid-October.

Wyoming Whiskey is holding fast to their western heritage, producing whiskey the right way, not the easy way: from the ground up. Using water sourced from a mile-deep limestone aquifer and all regionally sourced, non-GMO ingredients, Wyoming Whiskey respects the maxims of great bourbon, yet also reflects the feel and taste of the place it was made.

Keep up with Wyoming Whiskey on Facebook, Twitter (@wyowhiskey) and Instagram.

About Wyoming Whiskey Wyoming Whiskey has a simple goal: to create America’s next great bourbon. Based in Kirby, Wyoming, the company and product is a collaboration between its partners and 97,818 square miles of Wyoming. The Mead family first came to Wyoming as ranchers in 1890 and the state defines them, and their whiskey.  They use the finest corn, wheat, rye, barley, and water from the Big Horn Basin and promote Wyoming’s natural and human resources.  Every drop of this bourbon is 100% Wyoming. To learn more, visit wyomingwhiskey.com.

A ‘Dram Fine Wedding’ for Pulteney Pair

Old Pulteney has added the perfect ‘blend’ to its award-winning range of single malts – after a love match between two Pulteney staff led to a very special wedding at the Distillery in Wick.

Pulteney Distillery Visitor Centre Manager Tanya Fraser and Assistant Distillery Manager Russell Angus first locked eyes over a barrel of single malt back in 2003, so when the couple tied the knot in late summer this year, there was only one place they wanted to be.

Since Old Pulteney is such a big part of their lives, and to reflect their love of the ‘Maritime Malt’, Tanya and Russell chose to hold their big day at the Distillery in Wick amongst their closest colleagues and friends.

In keeping with their positions at the Distillery, which is one of the most northerly on the Scottish mainland, the full day had a distinctively ‘Old Pulteney’ flavour. Their romantic wedding ceremony took place in the Distillery courtyard, with photographs taken against a backdrop of casks in the warehouse.

At the reception, guests were treated to a delicious wedding cake in the shape of Pulteney’s distinctive ‘smuggler’s kettle’ stills – complete with a miniature model of the bride and groom on top. There were even table decorations held in empty Old Pulteney bottles….with the whisky inside served up as drams a plenty for guests at the end of the meal.

Bride Tanya, who has worked at the Distillery for 16 years years commented: ‘We wanted our wedding day to truly reflect us as a couple, and to represent our lives together. It’s working at Pulteney Distillery that brought Russell and I together, so it seemed very natural to us that we should make it such a big part of our wedding day.’

Old Pulteney Senior Brand Manager Margaret Mary Clarke said that she and the Old Pulteney team were honoured to have hosted such a special day for the couple. She added: ‘What a wonderful and memorable occasion for everyone at Pulteney Distillery. Tanya and Russell now have their place in Pulteney history after staging such a unique wedding and a day that we’re sure guests will be talking about for a long time to come. Cheers to them and our very best wishes for the future.’ 

www.oldpulteney.com / @OldPulteneyMalt  

Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Old Pulteney is one of the world’s finest and most distinctive single malt Scotch whiskies. Known as the ‘Maritime Malt’, it is crafted in the windswept coastal town of Wick, home to the Pulteney Distillery which is one of the most northerly on the Scottish mainland. The distillery was established in 1826 in the heart of ‘Pulteneytown’, the town created to house fishermen during Wick’s famous herring boom which drew a fleet of over 1000 boats and 7000 workers to this remote and rugged harbour.

Old Pulteney is the embodiment of this place, its people and its remarkable history. The skilled Pulteney Distillery team continues to craft whisky using the most traditional and time-honoured techniques that most others have long abandoned. This includes the uniquely shaped Pulteney stills, which are reflected in the design of the Old Pulteney bottle on shelves today.

Matured in hand-selected oak casks, the resulting whisky has been acclaimed for its excellence, its smooth drinking style and faint hint of the sea. Old Pulteney’s 21 Year Old Single Malt holds the coveted title of ‘World Whisky of the Year’ for 2012 in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible – one of the industry’s highest accolades. Earlier this year Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage was crowned the ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at Whisky Magazine’s prestigious World Whiskies Awards. The whisky also achieved top ten status in the UK single malt market in 2012 and is flourishing in many other countries around the world.

Lagavulin™ marks 200th anniversary with Limited Edition Eight-Year-Old Bottling 

Celebrated Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky distillery releases an Eight Year Old bottling in honour of original whisky scribe Alfred Barnard

TORONTO, Ontario, October 4, 2016 – 2016 is a year of celebration for Lagavulin, treasured around the world as one of the most special of all Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. Famous for its majestic nose of Hebridean peat smoke, richly textured and complex flavours and its long, sweet and power-driven finish, it encapsulates the passion, heritage and skills that lie behind its crafting. The bi-centennial features the launch of a special limited edition bottling of Lagavulin 8 Year Old in honour of Britain’s most famous Victorian whisky writer, Alfred Barnard.

In the late 1880s, Alfred Barnard, the first ever whisky journalist and traveller, sampled an 8 Year Old Lagavulin during a visit to Islay, describing it as “exceptionally fine” and “held in high repute.” He went on to declare Lagavulin to be “one of the most prominent” of the few Scotch distillers that can turn our spirit for use as Single [Malt] Whiskies.

“This is a special year for a much loved Single Malt Scotch Whisky revered around the world as the definitive Islay whisky,” said Alistair Kidd, Marketing Director for Whisky, Diageo Canada. “We are thrilled to celebrate such a historic occasion here in Canada with the launch of a limited edition Eight Year Old bottling.”

Lagavulin has delighted generations of whisky drinkers and this limited edition 8 Year Old bottling acknowledges the 200-year legacy of the distillery. Cramped and chaotic by nature, the sea front distillery cannot expand, and as a result, demand often exceeds supply. In the words of Alfred Barnard, “no prettier or more romantic spot could have been chosen for a distillery.”

Available in 750 mL bottles (48% ABV); this bicentenary limited edition whisky is a one-time only bottling that is magnificently full on in flavour and calls for special attention. Make time to enjoy it neat in a whisky nosing glass, or with just a drop of water.

For more information on Lagavulin, please visit www.malts.com/.

As consumers across the country join Lagavulin in celebrating 200 years of crafting extraordinary whisky, the brand reminds them to please drink responsibly.

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across the spirits and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, 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.

The LAGAVULIN word and associated logos are trademarks. © 2016

FACT SHEET: 

Lagavulin Eight Year Old (Limited Edition) Product Description: To celebrate an incredible 200 years of making Lagavulin Single Malt Scotch Whisky, its timeless quality and the wonderful whiskies still being made today, we have gone back to our roots: finding inspiration from the distillery’s rich history.

In the late 1880s, Alfred Barnard, the first ever whisky journalist and traveller, sampled an Eight Year Old Lagavulin: describing it as “exceptionally fine.” He went on to declare Lagavulin as “one of the rare distilleries that could produce a single malt of quality” at that time. In honour of this, and to mark the 200th year since the formation of Lagavulin, we have decided to release an equally exceptional Eight Year Old bottling. It will provide a special experience as this is a one-time only bottling to celebrate the occasion.

Tasting Notes 

Nose: Immediately quite soft with clean, fresh notes, faint hints of milk chocolate, lemon and then developing fragrant tea-scented smoke alongside nose-drying, maritime aromas, with subtle cereal. A prickliness seen earlier now develops, while the trademark Lagavulin dryness emerges as fresh newsprint. Softly sooty. Softer, fuller and more rounded with water: it is not hugely fruity but there is just a trace of red berry preserve, perhaps, beneath the smokiness, which comes sharply into focus.

Body: Light, growing pleasantly oily.

Palate: A soothing light texture, with a magnificently full on Lagavulin taste that’s somehow even bigger than you expect; sweet, smoky and warming, with a growing, smoky pungency, then dry, with more smoke. Charred, with minty, dark chocolate. Beautifully balanced midpalate then salty, oven-charred baked potato skins and smoke. Water rounds things, the taste still mighty yet more succulent, sweeter, spicier and now tongue tingling, mint-fresh and warming.

Finish: Lovely, clean, very long and smoky. Smoothly, subtle minted smoke surrounds chocolate tannins, leaving a late drying note to emerge in time. It is warming, soft and still smoky with water, not as long or intense now, yet still leaving the palate dry as sweet smoke lingers on the breath.

Size:                                                   750 mL

Alcohol by Volume:                       48% Alcohol by Volume (ABV)

For more information on Lagavulin, please visit www.malts.com.

CHIVAS REGAL ULTIS: THE ESSENCE OF CHIVAS REGAL

Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky, has launched Chivas Regal Ultis; the first blended malt Scotch whisky from the House of Chivas.

Capturing the true essence of Chivas Regal, Chivas Regal Ultis uses only five of Chivas Regal’s most precious, signature single malts from Speyside, Scotland, and represents the style and diversity of this prestigious, world-renowned whisky region.
The latest release has been crafted with hand-selected malts from Tormore, Longmorn, Strathisla, Allt A’Bhainne and Braeval, presenting complex flavours, a golden hue and a commanding rich aroma. Out of millions of casks in inventory at Chivas Brothers, less than 1% are used to create Chivas Regal Ultis, with the expert blending team individually nosing and selecting those of the highest quality to craft the blend; a traditional method of hand-selection that is no longer standard in the Scotch whisky industry today.
Since 1909, only five men have ever mastered the iconic Chivas Regal house style, and Chivas Regal Ultis pays tribute to the strength of vision, commitment and mastery of Master Blenders; Charles Howard, Charles Julian, Allan Baillie, Jimmy Lang and of Custodian Master Blender, Colin Scott.

The luxurious Chivas Regal Ultis bottle mirrors the precious whisky within and is designed to provide impactful on-shelf stand-out with a slender shape and contemporary crest in gold champagne. In honour of the Chivas Regal Master Blenders and representing the five signature malts within, the bottle features a unique pen-clip closure which is etched with five rings, and a striking placement of the Roman numeral figure for five on the highly crafted base and within the textured crest label.

Colin Scott, Chivas Regal Custodian Master Blender, comments: “I am honoured to have been one of only five Master Blenders for Chivas Regal, and I believe that Chivas Regal Ultis represents the true essence of this iconic Scotch whisky. With the release of Chivas Regal Ultis, only the most precious single malts from five signature Speyside distilleries have been selected to craft this luxury blended malt whisky from the House of Chivas.”

“The crystalline freshness of Tormore shines through along with the contrasting, hint of spicy warmth present in Allt A’Bhainne, while the Longmorn single malt adds balance to the blend. The floral style of Braeval complements the fruity sweetness of Strathisla to create a complex and rich blended malt Scotch whisky. Chivas Regal Ultis is a blend that draws on expertise that has been handed down throughout the centuries and it will delight whisky connoisseurs around the world.”

Richard Black, Chivas Regal Global Brand Director, adds: “To launch the first blended malt Scotch whisky from the House of Chivas is truly a momentous occasion. Chivas Regal Ultis represents the essence of Chivas Regal and is a fitting tribute to our legendary craftsmen of the past, with recognition of the luxury quality of our Scotch whisky portfolio. Chivas Regal Ultis is set to appeal to discerning drinkers looking to impress at special occasions as well as Scotch whisky aficionados searching for their next luxury whisky experience.”

Chivas Regal Ultis will be launching globally in all major retailers and travel retail from October 2016 at a RRP of USD$200.

About Chivas Regal
Launched in 1909, Chivas Regal is the world’s first luxury whisky and is considered to be a timeless classic, renowned for its benchmark quality and taste, style, substance and exclusivity. A truly global brand, Chivas Regal has been integral to the growth of the Scotch whisky category worldwide and today sells 4.5 million 9L cases annually in more than 150 countries across the globe. With generosity, entrepreneurship and integrity at the heart of Chivas Regal, the brand launched its successful Win the Right Way campaign in 2014, which aims to inspire a new generation whilst making a positive impact on the lives of others. The Chivas Regal range includes Chivas 12, Chivas 18, Chivas 25 and the Global Travel Retail exclusive, Chivas Brothers Blend. In October 2014, Chivas Regal announced the addition of a fifth permanent expression in the Chivas Regal family, Chivas Regal Extra, a new blend with a unique richness derived from selective maturation in rare ex-sherry casks. In 2015, the iconic brand welcomed the pinnacle of the range with the introduction of the new ultra-prestige blend, Chivas Regal The Icon.
www.chivas.com

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

TWO BOURBONS FROM BARTON 1792 DISTILLERY AWARDED DOUBLE GOLD AT 2016 NEW YORK WORLD WINE AND SPIRITS COMPEITION 

BARDSTOWN, kENTUCKY (Oct. 4, 2016) –The results from the 2016 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition are in, and Barton 1792 Distillery received two double gold medals for its 1792 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel and Zackariah Harris Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. In total 1792 received four medals from the competition.

This year, the number of brand entries increased by 50 percent and NYWWSC reported that the quality of the brands ranked superior.

1792 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel and Zackariah Harris Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey each received the highest honor, the double gold medal. The double gold medal is given only if every judge awards a gold medal to the product.

Other Barton 1792 Distillery products recognized by the NYWWSC included 1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Kentucky Tavern Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. 1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey received a gold medal and Kentucky Tavern Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey received a silver medal.

This competition is associated with the Triple Crown of Competitions (The San Francisco International Wine Competition and The San Francisco World Spirits Competition), and is in its sixth year.  The NYWWSC aims to promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs.

The NYWWSC is judged by a panel of the spirit industry’s most renowned judges including award-winning authors, buyers, journalists, educators and bar owners, who rate each spirit on a 100-point scale

Results from the 2016 New York World Wine and Spirits Competition can be found at www.nyworldwineandspiritscompetition.com/. 

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/.

The Isle of the Unexpected? Jura Relocates to London

Jura takes its island to central London, as it learns that 70% of Londoners don’t know where it is

Jura Whisky announces that it is taking its remote island home to London – as it reveals that more than 70% of Londoners don’t know where it is, geographically.

While almost half knew of the island’s Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a massive 72.5% of 1,000 Londoners surveyed didn’t actually know where to find it on a map – with 12% thinking it is somewhere in England, 10% thinking it is in Hungary and 14% of those surveyed unable to guess at Jura’s location*.

Now Jura wants to put its island home in the spotlight, giving Londoners a unique chance to explore its incredible coastlines, community, culture and craft without leaving the city – with a new experiential event created in collaboration with immersive art duo Art of Disappearing.

From 13^th October, The Isle of the Unexpected invites Londoners to join an interactive, mystery adventure to help a fictional film director, Eric, find the inspiration he needs to finish his script. The answer lies on the island of Jura, which ticketholders can access through a secret door in The Looking Glass bar in Shoreditch. Londoners can expect to discover the island over a dram or two as they are guided by audio headset through physical sets, experience virtual reality flight and hunt for clues.

Nestled in the Inner Hebrides just off the West Coast of Scotland, the isle of Jura is as beautiful as it is remote. It has just one road, one pub, one shop and one iconic distillery, which employs 10% of the island’s population to craft Jura’s single malt whisky. Jura is just over half the size of central London, except with a population of just 200 people, who are vastly outnumbered by over 6,000 deer which roam the island.

This isn’t the first time Jura’s location has caused confusion – in 2013, it made headlines as it fell off Google maps. And while the general population in London might be unsure of its whereabouts, Jura’s remote location and dramatic coastlines have certainly made an impression amongst the cultural community – author George Orwell wrote 1984 while living there and the KLF notoriously burned one million pounds on the island. Jura has also served as a writing retreat for a number of musicians, most recently the Glaswegian band Errors, which wrote tracks for the album Lease of Life there.

Graham Logan, Jura Distillery manager, said:

“People don’t know exactly where on the map you can find us. I’m not surprised as it can take up to 16 hours by train, plane, ferry and car to get from London to Jura and back again – but I’m proud of our award winning whiskies, which are enjoyed across the whole world.

Our island, distillery and community is full of wonderful stories just waiting to be uncovered, and it has inspired many authors and artists over the years. We welcome hundreds of visitors to the island every year, though The Isle of the Unexpected is the next best thing for those who want to discover the different sides of Jura and can’t make the long trip!” 

The Isle of the Unexpected, 13-15 & 19-22 October, The Looking Glass, 49 Hackney Rd, London E2 7NX, £5 plus 50p booking fee (includes two drams of Jura Whisky)

Tickets available now from: https://billetto.co.uk/discoverjura 

@Jura_Whisky #DiscoverJura

*Jura surveyed 1,000 Londoners through One Poll 

www.jurawhisky.com 

www.twitter.com/jura_whisky

www.facebook.com/jurawhisky

Instagram: jura_whisky  

NOTES                                                           

About Jura:

Jura is an island nestled off the West Coast of Scotland. With only one road, one pub, one distillery and 200 people, Jura is as beautiful as it is remote. The distillery was established in 1810 and reborn in 1963 to revive the community. Inspired by our history and our island home, we create single malt with a true passion for the craft of whisky making.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-23331456

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/real-life/george-orwells-son-revisits-jura-3655402

http://www.theskinny.co.uk/music/interviews/into-the-wild-errors-interviewed

THE GLENLIVET LAUNCHES LIQUID HISTORY: INTRODUCING THE GLENLIVET WINCHESTER COLLECTION VINTAGE 1966

From October 2016, The Glenlivet is releasing the second edition in its series of 50 year old single malt Scotch whiskies: The Glenlivet Winchester Collection Vintage 1966. Crafted over generations, for generations to come, only 100 bottles of this liquid history, matured in an exceptional high quality sherry cask, will be released priced at $25,000 each.

Created by The Glenlivet Master Distiller, Robert Arthur, in 1966, and subsequently cared for by the Master Distillers of The Glenlivet, it is released today under the guardianship of Alan Winchester. Vintage 1966 joins Vintage 1964 to become one of the rarest, exquisite and most sought after whisky collections in the world. Whilst this precious whisky has been resting in its cask the world has changed around it. Mankind took its first steps on the moon, the Berlin wall came down, and the world was introduced to the invention of the personal computer and mobile phone.

Vintage 1966 was identified early on as being a cask of outstanding quality and has since been slowly and steadily developing the signature flavours that make The Glenlivet an enduring benchmark of quality. The trademark soft and sweet complexity is layered by a delicate cinnamon and liquorice spice, followed by an exceptionally long, smooth finish, with a hint of dryness.

Alan Winchester’s own bottle will be auctioned at Christie’s on 21st October, alongside the unique opportunity to lay down Vintage 2016.  Proceeds from the auction will go to the British Crafts Council to help champion craft for future generations.

This commitment to craft runs through The Glenlivet Winchester Collection Vintage 1966 experience: The Glenlivet commissioned Brodie Nairn of acclaimed studio Glasstorm, to produce a hand blown glass bottle around the concept of water, paying homage to The Glenlivet’s Gaelic translation of ‘Valley of the Smooth Flowing One’, with elegant lines lending gentle movement to the sculpted glass. Designer silversmith Richard Fox crafted the gold stopper set with a smoky quartz Cairngorm Stone – specially selected to echo the richly dark liquid of Vintage 1966 – while esteemed wood craftsman, John Galvin, made the beautiful cherry wood cabinet that houses the whisky.

Alan Winchester comments: “The release of Vintage 1966 marks another milestone for The Glenlivet Winchester Collection. Casks of this age and quality are such a rare thing these days, that the resulting single malt is literally liquid history in a glass. I’m immensely proud to release this wonderful whisky, which has been cared for and crafted over generations.

“I’m also proud to be auctioning my own personal bottle and a bottle of future Vintage 2016 to be enjoyed in 50 years’ time. This will mark yet another moment of history in the making and I’m so pleased that the proceeds of the auction will go towards investing in the future success of talented and innovative British craftspeople.”

Miriam Eceolaza, Global Brand Director for The Glenlivet, said: “The release of the second chapter of The Winchester Collection sets yet another new benchmark in single malt. Each chapter: Vintage 1964, Vintage 1966 and, in 50 years’ time, Vintage 2016 is steeped in dedication, passion and excellence. Taking inspiration from this, we have chosen to partner with the British Crafts Council to truly support the next generation of crafts people.”

The Master Distiller’s bottle from The Glenlivet Winchester Collection, alongside Vintage 2016, will be auctioned out of Christie’s New York, on the 21st October, with a total of just 100 bottles to be made available for purchase worldwide.

To find out more information about The Glenlivet Winchester Collection and to join The Guardians of The Glenlivet, visit www.theglenlivet.com/guardians.

NOTES

About The Glenlivet Winchester Collection
The Glenlivet Winchester Collection was the world’s first series of 50 Year Old single malt Scotch whiskies, which will be released over the next few years. The inaugural Vintage 1964 was released in 2014 and Vintage 1966 is the second release. Taking its name from current Master Distiller Alan Winchester, this exquisite collection of rare whiskies represents the legacy of generations of men and honours the past, celebrates the present and looks to the future.

About Vintage 1966
Vintage 1966 is the second chapter in the unfolding, compelling tale of The Glenlivet Winchester Collection. Just 100 bottles will be made available around the world, with each priced in parity to $25,000.

Tasting Notes
The perfect combination of the spirit and the sherry cask, releases a wonderful array of flavours creating a symphony of distinctive flavours, full of the signature fruity notes of The Glenlivet, intensified with age. Bursting with influence from the sherry cask, the nose is deliciously sweet with the aromas of treacle, moist raisins and apricot jam. The palate is then gratified with the release of candied, sumptuous soft fruits, sweet treacle and juicy orange, layered by delicate spice – a teasing intermingling of cinnamon and liquorice. The finish is exceptionally long, smooth, with a pleasing hint of dryness. The subtle, exotic spice set in relief against the signature soft sweetness is just one of the elements that differentiate this special vintage from the prestigious Vintage 1964.

Packaging
Every element of the Vintage 1966 has been handcrafted, with each timeless material and finish chosen to reflect and honour the precious liquid stored inside. The hand-blown decanter by Scottish glass artist Brodie Nairn (GLASSTORM) is created around the concept of water, paying homage to The Glenlivet’s Gaelic translation of ‘Valley of the Smooth Flowing One’, with elegant flow lines lending gentle movement to the sculpted glass.  Each bottle is delicately hand painted in gold and sealed with a precious, bespoke gold stopper set with a smoky quartz Cairngorm (or whisky) Stone, by acclaimed silversmith Richard Fox, whose past commissions have included work for Formula One and Rolls Royce.  The handmade, luxurious dark cherry cabinet, lined in leather, was crafted by award-winning furniture maker, John Galvin and has taken 55 – 60 hours alone to create by hand, with over 100 processes and 50 components in each.

About the British Crafts Council
Founded in 1971 and incorporated by Royal Charter, the Crafts Council is Britain’s national agency for contemporary craft. Through exhibitions, publications and curating the national Collection, we champion the UK’s foremost makers and present contemporary craft in new ways, challenging perceptions of what craft is and can be. www.craftscouncil.org.uk
The British Crafts Council is supported using public funding by Arts Council England. www.artscouncil.org.uk

About Future Made
A Future Made was launched in 2016 and is a Crafts Council project in partnership with The New Craftsmen, Craft Scotland and Ruthin Craft Centre aimed at raising the profile of British craft via international design fairs. A Future Made is a two-year international programme funded by Arts Council England and Arts Council Wales, as well as being supported by the GREAT Britain campaign which will showcase up to 30 makers over that time.
knowledgeable panel spanning design, craft, fashion, and architecture and interior design. For The Glenlivet collaboration these makers were invited to submit designs informed by the concept ‘Crafted for Generations’. Visit www.theglenlivet.com/guardians for further information on The Glenlivet’s Future Made initiative.

About Christie’s
Christie’s, the world’s leading art business, had global auction, private and digital sales in the first half of 2016 that totalled £2.1 billion / $3 billion. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Christie’s offers around 350 auctions annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewelry, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie’s also has a long and successful history conducting private sales for its clients in all categories, with emphasis on Post-War & Contemporary, Impressionist & Modern, Old Masters and Jewellery.
2016 marks Christie’s 250th anniversary. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie’s has since conducted the greatest and most celebrated auctions through the centuries providing a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Click HERE to view a short film about Christie’s and the 250th anniversary.
Christie’s has a global presence in 46 countries, with 12 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai, Zürich, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Mumbai. More recently, Christie’s has led the market with expanded initiatives in growth markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai.

About The Glenlivet
Created by George Smith in 1824, The Glenlivet is the original single malt Scotch whisky, renowned for its smooth and fruity flavour profile. The Glenlivet is also the biggest contributor to the volume growth of the single malt category worldwide, adding more than any other single malt whisky brand over the last five years. As the single malt that started it all, The Glenlivet is committed to continuing its legacy for crafting single malt whiskies of outstanding quality and has led innovation within single malt in recent years. Standout initiatives include the release of The Glenlivet Alpha, a mystery single malt, and the creation of The Guardians of The Glenlivet, an online hub for fans to engage with the brand and each other.
www.theglenlivet.com

@TheGlenlivet

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

BEST SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY & DOUBLE GOLD AWARDS for CASK ISLAY

A.D. Rattray, Independent Whisky Bottlers, are delighted that the quality and popularity of their flavourful Cask Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky has been recognised with another two awards. The lively peaty malt has been awarded Double Gold and Best Single Malt Scotch Whisky in the 2016 New York World Wine and Sprits Competition.

A.D. Rattray specifically crafted this Small Batch Malt to embody the wonderful characteristics of Islay whiskies. The complex and refreshing flavours of Cask Islay will delight lovers of Islay whiskies, while its charm and charisma will tempt many to their first taste from this beloved West Coast isle.

Tasting Note

Colour: Golden Islay sunset.

Nose: Warm & fiery, roasting peat kiln, some citrus notes after the smoke.

Palate: Oily, burnt toffee, juicy barley and rich peat smoke.

Conclusion: Lively, peaty and full of flavour.

New anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky launches for Global Travel Retail

Premium Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, anCnoc has announced it will celebrate travel retail this year with the unveiling of two stylish new releases at the Tax Free World Association Exhibition in Cannes in October.

The highly anticipated Rùdhan is the latest travel retail expression to join the Peaty Collection and will be available globally from mid-October after officially launching at the Cannes showcase.

In keeping with anCnoc’s traditional style, the whisky takes its name from the peat harvesting process. The term ‘rùdhan’ [roo-an] refers to the final stage, in which the peat is stacked for several weeks to dry out ahead of burning to create the signature smokiness associated with the range.

Measuring 46% ABV and pale straw in appearance, the initial fruity aromas give way to the strong scent of woody smokiness. To taste, the famous earthy peat flavour is followed by warming spices and burnt sugar, ending with a long and smooth finish.

Following the success of the 2014 Black Hill Reserve, anCnoc will also be unveiling a new pack for this year’s exhibition, which plays beautifully into anCnoc’s modern tradition positioning. The popular whisky pays tribute to anCnoc’s Highland home taking its name from the Knockdhu distillery, which means ‘Black Hill’ in Gaelic.

Matured in first fill American oak ex-Bourbon casks and bright gold in appearance, Black Hill Reserve is crisp on the nose with notes of citrus and green apples along with the full-bodied taste of ground spices and pear drops.

anCnoc brand manager Stephanie Allison commented: “anCnoc has seen a growing demand for Peaty expressions and wants Rùdhan and its original packaging, which is like nothing else on the market, to provide a real point of difference. Travel retail is a priority market as it provides an introduction to the brand for thousands of travellers. anCnoc therefore wants to ensure that customers are aware of its desire to create whisky using traditional methods but with a modern twist”.  

Rùdhan joins the Peaty Collection at a price point of €64.99 for 1L. The refreshed Black Hill Reserve has a suggested RRP of €49.99 for 1L. Both expressions will be available from the middle of October.

The full anCnoc brand collection will be displayed and sampled at the International Beverage stand located at S2 in the Marine Village.

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.”

About International Beverage

International Beverage Holdings (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 (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.

Wemyss Malts ‘Autumn Harvest’ Single Cask Whisky Release of 2016

Independent bottler Wemyss Malts has released a bountiful crop of twelve new single cask whiskies ranging from 14 to 27 years old. These whiskies were selected and named after the aromas and flavours associated with a harvest festival or a pantry of autumnal fare discovered within by the Wemyss tasting panel. Each bottling has a descriptive name illustrating the whisky’s character, are bottled in their natural colour and are non-chill-filtered.

The full single cask list of the Autumn Harvest release comprises of:

“Hickory Molasses Glaze” a 2001 (14YO) single cask from Bunnahabhain distillery, bottled at 46%

“Pear Crème” a 1998 (17YO) single cask from Auchentoshan distillery, bottled at 46%

“Ginger Glazed Gammon” a 1998 (18YO) single cask from Mortlach distillery, bottled at 46%

“Blossom Nectar” a 1997 (19YO) single cask from Glenrothes distillery, bottled at 50.8%

“Pomme Piquante” a 1995 (20YO) single cask from Clynelish distillery, bottled at 46%

“Oak for All Seasons” a 1994 (21YO) single cask from Braes of Glenlivet distillery, bottled at 46%

“Persian Anise” a 1992 (24YO) single cask from Longmorn distillery, bottled at 46%

“Frangipane Canapé” a 1990 (25YO) single cask from Bladnoch distillery, bottled at 46%

“Haven Trail” a 1990 (25YO) single cask from Bunnahabhain distillery, bottled at 46%

“Barbecue Mango Salsa” a 1989 (26YO) single cask from Bowmore distillery, bottled at 46%

“Cream of The Crop” a 1989 (26YO) single cask from Glen Garioch distillery, bottled at 46%

“Frosted Molasses Tart” a 1988 (27YO) single cask from Invergordon grain distillery, bottled at 46%

William Wemyss, Founder and Managing Director at Wemyss Malts, commented: “From the fruity Lowland pair “Frangipane Canapé” and “Pear Crème” to our rich and spicy “Frosted Molasses Tart” single grain, matured in an ex sherry Butt, our Autumn Harvest of single casks should comfort and fortify the whisky devotee as the days get shorter and the nights begin to creep in”.

Certified by the whisky writer and Master of the Quaich, Charlie Maclean, each cask is limited to only a few hundred bottles with suggested retail prices ranging from £70 to £270. These bottlings will be available in selected retailers in the UK, EU and key Asian markets.

Notes:

• Edinburgh based Wemyss Malts is owned by the Wemyss family and their family seat is Wemyss Castle in Fife where they’ve lived since the 1300s.
• Wemyss Malts has an blended malt whisky range comprising: The Spice King, The Peat Chimney, The Hive, Kiln Embers – 2015’s heavily peated release; single malt single cask bottlings and blended Scotch range, Lord Elcho.
• The Wemyss family premium wines and spirits brands also include boutique gin Darnley’s View, together with the premium wine estate of Rimauresq Cru Classé in Cotes de Provence.
• The family distillery Kingsbarns, near St. Andrews, Fife has recently released three exclusive single casks whiskies for the visitor centre available at www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com