CHIVAS 18 AND PININFARINA UNVEIL NEW LUXURY LIMITED EDITION

Chivas Regal 18 Year Old, the world’s best blended Scotch whisky¹, has announced a new chapter in its partnership with Pininfarina, the prestigious Italian design company renowned for its craftsmanship and cutting edge design. Following two successful years of the collaboration, Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Chapter 3 is an elegant metallic gift tin offering impactful on-shelf stand out.

Combining their shared values of craft, style and tradition, Chivas 18 and Pininfarina have created a dynamic gift tin using one fluid curve, which highlights the luxury Scotch within. Marrying form and function, the limited edition echoes the aerodynamic creations of Pininfarina with a unique cut-out in the twisted casing to display the golden hues of the whisky. This simple design suggests the harmony of flavour, while the packaging represents harmony of line – the result is Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Chapter 3 which is an effortlessly classic design.

Speaking of the collaboration, Chivas Regal Global Brand Director, Richard Black said: “We are pleased to unveil Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Chapter 3, the next edition for our outstanding partnership. Every chapter has brought a new and exciting creation, each proving hugely successful, while being as usable as they are enjoyable. The Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Chapter 3 is a beautifully designed celebration of form and function that resonates with our shared values of understated luxury.”

Paolo Pininfarina, Chairman of the Pininfarina Group said: “The new creation Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Chapter 3 is a superb piece of design. Over the last three years, we have enjoyed working with Chivas 18 immensely. Although we come from different backgrounds, it is impossible not to recognise the craftsmanship and ethos shared between our two brands.”

The Chivas 18 by Pininfarina Chapter 3 gift tin will be launching globally from October 2016 for the RRP USD$75.

¹According to the 2014 Trophy Award for the Best Blended Scotch Whisky at the International Wine and Spirit Competition

About Pininfarina Pininfarina Extra: With a history dating back to 1930, Pininfarina is based on values of creativity, experience and innovation without forgetting tradition. It combines avant-garde style and technical solutions aimed at functionality.

If Pininfarina is known worldwide for car design, Pininfarina Extra (a Company specialized in product and interior design, architecture, nautics and aeronautics) expresses its design philosophy in all areas of life where beauty combines with elegance, essentiality and comfort. Founded in 1986 and led by Paolo Pininfarina, President and CEO, Pininfarina Extra has its headquarters in Cambiano (Turin) and a branch in Miami (Florida).

Its partners include Acer, Alenia Aeronautica, Ares Line, Barakà, Bovet, Calligaris, Chivas, Coca-Cola, Costa Coffee, Cyrela, DeAgostini, Desarrollo Mor, Far East Organization, Gorenje, Jacuzzi, Juventus, Lavazza, Leitner, Magnat, Paqualotto, Petronas, Philip Morris, Primatist, Schaefer, Snaidero, The Bridge, The Related Group, Uffix, Unilever and other international leaders. www.pininfarina.com

NOTES

About Chivas Regal Launched in 1909, Chivas Regal is the world’s first luxury whisky and is considered to be a timeless classic, renowned for its benchmark quality and taste, style, substance and exclusivity. A truly global brand, Chivas Regal has been integral to the growth of the Scotch whisky category worldwide and today sells 4.5 million 9L cases annually in more than 150 countries across the globe. With generosity, entrepreneurship and integrity at the heart of Chivas Regal, the brand launched its successful Win the Right Way campaign in 2014, which aims to inspire a new generation whilst making a positive impact on the lives of others. The Chivas Regal range includes Chivas 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 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

CHIVAS BROTHERS LAUNCHES NEW BURSARY TO MAXIMISE EMPLOYEES’ POTENTIAL

A new bursary scheme has been launched by Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky business of Pernod Ricard, designed to give employees the opportunity to take their talents to the next level via further education or vocational training.

The Chivas Brothers Bursary has been launched by joining forces with the Scottish International Education Trust (SIET), a body which provides talented men and women with grants to complete further study, helping them to fulfil their aspirations. The bursary will make it easier for employees and their families to apply for support from the SIET, with up to £5,000 a year on offer over three years.

The bursary is open to the 1,600 employees of Chivas Brothers spread throughout the country at 32 sites in Orkney, Speyside, Central Scotland, Ayrshire, London and Plymouth, as well as direct family members.

Anthony Schofield, Public Affairs Director at Chivas Brothers commented: “The Chivas Brothers Bursary is a truly exciting initiative which we hope will help and inspire employees, or a member of their family, to pursue further education and open up future opportunities.

“At Chivas Brothers we are connected to so many Scottish communities through our employees; this is just one way for us to support and nurture those that live and work in these communities.”

Michael Ewart, Director of SIET, said: “Chivas Brothers’ gift to SIET enables us to make many more awards to talented young Scots over the three years of our relationship. I am pleased that Chivas Brothers employees and their families will also have the opportunity to benefit from the Bursary scheme.”

Chivas Brothers previously donated £100,000 to the SIET, which was set up in 1971 by celebrated Scots Sir Sean Connery and Sir Jackie Stewart, who both remain Trustees.

The impact of the donation to SIET has been wide-ranging and remarkable:

• Georgia Murray, a lecturer at the University of Dundee, has been given the chance to take part in an Arctic Circle Residency, working with climate change researchers to create poignant landscape paintings of the remote locale
• Kelly Provan of Kilmacolm is one step closer to realising her ambition of working for the United Nations, through funding which has supported her Masters in International Relations
• Yvonne Laird, a champion triathlete originally from Denny, has secured funding to complete her thesis, which makes up the final phase of her PhD on “Physical Activity in Girls”
• Mezzo-soprano Fiona Joice has been supported in her move from Glasgow to the Royal Academy of Music in London, where she is pursuing a Masters in Performance

NOTES

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.chivasspirit.com

@ChivasNewsRoom

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier- Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 85 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics.

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

About the Scottish International Education Trust

The Scottish International Education Trust (SIET) was set up by Sir Sean Connery and Sir Jackie Stewart in 1971. Sir Sean donated his $1m fee for the film “Diamonds are Forever” – at the time the largest fee ever commanded by an actor for a single film. Both Sir Sean and Sir Jackie remain Trustees and take an active interest in the Trust’s work. SIET’s principal aim is to give awards to mainly young Scots who have shown particular promise and who need help to take their education or professional training further – usually at post-graduate or equivalent level.

www.scotinted.org.uk

Jim Beam Unveils Newest Premium Bourbon, Jim Beam Double Oak

Deerfield, IL – September 1, 2016 – Today, Jim Beam®, the world’s No. 1 bourbon, announces the release of Jim Beam® Double Oak, an exceptional and perfectly balanced Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in oak that is twice barreled to create richer and woodier flavors than other whiskies.

Aged four years while sitting in freshly charred, new American oak barrels, Jim Beam Double Oak is then transferred to newly charred American oak barrels and aged to taste. The second barreling allows the liquid to develop an even deeper level of intense spiced oakiness and rich caramel, creating a unique bourbon encounter.

“I’m excited to experiment with the double barrel aging process used to create Jim Beam Double Oak,” said Fred Noe, 7th Generation Master Distiller, Jim Beam. “Secondary aging delivers an added complexity to the taste profile and that makes for a unique, premium bourbon experience.

Jim Beam Double Oak will begin hitting shelves this month. This latest innovation from Jim Beam has a golden amber color and a distinctive spiced oakiness with intense caramel and toffee flavors. The aroma carries rich notes of caramel and vanilla with hints of toasted wood. It is best enjoyed neat, on the rocks or mixed in classic American cocktails and has a suggested retail price of $22.00 for 750ML.

For a closer look at the process and importance of oak in bourbon production, see here for a custom infographic Jim Beam developed for the launch of Jim Beam Double Oak: http://www.jimbeam.com/en-us/double-oak.

In addition to launching the new bourbon, Jim Beam is planting white oak tree saplings in Bullitt County, KY this fall to show our appreciation of oak and the integral role it plays in creating our fine bourbons.

For more information on Jim Beam Double Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in oak, please “like” Jim Beam on Facebook (www.facebook.com/jimbeam), follow @JimBeam on Twitter or visit www.jimbeam.com

About Beam Suntory Inc.

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

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

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES 2016 ANTIQUE COLLECTION WHISKEYS 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Sept. 7, 2016) It’s the best time of the year for whiskey fans, as Buffalo Trace Distillery releases its 2016 Antique Collection. The highly anticipated collection will once again feature five limited-release whiskeys of various ages, recipes and proofs. Here’s what ardent fans can expect:

George T. Stagg

The powerhouse favorite of the Antique Collection, George T. Stagg weighs in at a hefty 144.1 proof this year.  Past releases of this uncut and unfiltered bourbon won many top awards, including twice named the number one spirit in the world by F. Paul Pacult’s The Spirit Journal. This year’s release contains bourbon from barrels filled in the spring of 2001. This batch contained 142 barrels, but not as many bottles as expected, due to some very greedy angels!  Storage location of these barrels varied across warehouses M, N, H, L and K.  Finding a bottle this fall will be difficult due to the low yield.  This whiskey tastes of dark chocolate, coffee and vanilla.

William Larue Weller

The Antique Collection’s uncut, unfiltered, wheated recipe bourbon is William Larue Weller. Previous editions of this wheater have won many accolades, including the “Bourbon of the Year” by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2016 edition. The 2016 offering was distilled in the spring of 2003 and aged on the third and sixth floors of Warehouses D, K, and L.  This bourbon registers in at 135.4 proof – one of the stronger Weller releases.  The bold flavors include plum, figs and vanilla.

Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye

Thomas H. Handy is the uncut and unfiltered straight rye whiskey. The 2015 edition was named “Best American Rye Whiskey” at the 2016 World Whiskies Awards.  This year’s Handy was distilled in the spring of 2010; aged on the fourth, fifth and seventh floors of Warehouses I, K, and M, and weighs in at 126.2 proof.  The flavor has been described as toffee and cinnamon.

Eagle Rare 17 Year Old

The previous edition of this bourbon was honored with a Silver Outstanding Medal at the 2015 International Wine and Spirits Competition. The 2016 edition has been aging on the first, second and third floors of Warehouses H and K.  This 90 proof bourbon was aged for seventeen years and tastes of leather, vanilla, tobacco and toffee.

Sazerac Rye 18 Year Old

Last year Sazerac Rye 18 Year Old was named the Best Rye Whiskey 11 Years and Older by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2016 edition.  This 2016 straight rye whiskey release has notable flavors of smoke, clove and all-spice with a dry finish.  The barrels for this whiskey were filled in April of 1998, making them the first “new” batch in years not drawn from the stainless steel tank as the previous past few editions have been.  From this year onward, this whiskey will be drawn directly from barrels put away for 18 years, versus using any tanked whiskey.

The Antique Collection was introduced more than a decade ago and has become a cult favorite among whiskey connoisseurs. Since 2000 these whiskeys have garnered numerous awards from such notable publications as Whisky Advocate Magazine, Spirit Journal, and Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.

The 2016 Antique Collection whiskeys will be available in limited quantities starting in late September or early October.  Suggested retail price is $90 each.  For more information visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/antique-collection.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1773 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 17 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named “Brand Innovator of the Year” by Whisky Magazine at its Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 300 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/.

Old Pulteney returns to Liverpool Food and Drink Festival with local Chef Aiden Byrne

Following their successful debut at the Liverpool Food and Drink Festival in 2015, Old Pulteney single malt Scotch whisky and leading local chef Aiden Byrne have teamed up again to bring fine drams and delicious food pairings to this year’s event (17th – 18th September).

‘The Old Pulteney Drifter’, the whisky’s hand-crafted, boat-shaped bar featuring original nautical details and an eye-catching sail-like canopy, will be anchored at Sefton Park throughout the festival. It pays homage to the award-winning whisky’s home in Wick on the rugged north coast of Scotland where Pulteney Distillery was founded in 1826 during the town’s historic herring boom.

Old Pulteney has had an exciting year with appearances at a number of food festivals and special events around the North of England. Aiden, who is chef and owner of The Church Green British Grill in Lymm and Chef Patron at Manchester House, is an Old Pulteney brand ambassador, on a mission to give food lovers a fresh taste of malt whisky and to pioneer whisky and food pairing.

Aiden began 2016 with a visit to the Pulteney Distillery to immerse himself in the rich maritime heritage and traditional crafting of the whisky, enjoying a personal masterclass with Old Pulteney Senior Brand Manager, Margaret Mary Clarke. Inspired by its distinctive flavours and faint hint of the sea, Aiden has devised a selection of Old Pulteney-inspired food pairings. He will be educating festival visitors on how to bring together the perfect combination of complementary flavours during his appearance at the Old Pulteney Drifter on Sunday 18^th September from 2 – 4pm.

Margaret Mary Clarke, Senior Brand Manager for Old Pulteney commented: ‘We really enjoyed our last trip to Liverpool, we found that Festival visitors were keen to learn more about Scotch malt whisky and to sample our collection. It’s a huge asset for us to be able to work alongside as talented and passionate a chef as Aiden. Pairing food and whisky is a relatively new idea and he has taken our challenge and created some wonderful and creative dishes which we’re all looking forward to sharing with Festival guests over the weekend.’

Aiden Byrne added: ‘Since starting to work with Old Pulteney at last year’s Liverpool Food and Drink Festival, we have developed a partnership that has been fascinating for both parties. I love working with the delicious, complex and slightly salty flavours of the various Old Pulteney malts and developing flavour pairings has become something of a passion for me. Having the chance to introduce so many people to the taste of malt whisky and the foods that it can pair with has also been very rewarding.’

At this year’s Festival, Aiden will be preparing a special food pairing for Old Pulteney 12 Year Old – a nori rice cracker with cured salmon and seaweed salad. ‘ The citrusy and salty back notes in the 12 year old are complemented perfectly by the seaweed, citrus fruits and small bursts of seafood from the salmon caviar’, he commented.

The Liverpool Food and Drink Festival takes place on Saturday 17^th and Sunday 18^th September 2016 at Sefton Park, Liverpool. The Old Pulteney Drifter Bar will be on site in Zone B throughout the Festival. Aiden Byrne will appear at the Old Pulteney Drifter Bar on Sunday the 18^th of September from 2 – 4pm. 

www.oldpulteney.com / @OldPulteneyMalt

http://www.liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk 

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.

Aiden Byrne

Aiden Byrne was raised in Kirkby in Merseyside and comes from a humble background. Excelling in Home Economics at school, Aiden spent his college summer holidays working for free at the Stanneylands Hotel in Cheshire and decided to embark on a career as a chef.

After a spell at London’s Royal Garden Hotel he left to join Adlards Restaurant in Norwich. Aiden was made Head Chef by the tender age of 22 and his cuisine helped to win back Adlards’ Michelin Star. He went on to work at a number of Michelin-Starred establishments in England and Ireland including The Oak Room and Orangery Restaurants, The Commons Restaurant and Tom Aikens where he was Head Chef. Aiden had previously worked with Tom Aikens at Pied à Terre restaurant and cites him as one of his mentors. After parting ways with Tom, Aiden went on to work at Danesfield House Hotel before joining The Dorchester as Head Chef of The Grill Room in London. His first book, Made in Great Britain, was released in September 2008.

A Northern boy at heart, Aiden and his wife yearned to be closer to home and in 2008 purchased the Church Green in Lymm, Cheshire. After converting the local pub into “The British Grill” the couple won the AA restaurant of the year award in 2012. In 2013, Aiden opened Manchester House with Living Ventures. A passion project for Byrne, Manchester House has won him both critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. This autumn Aiden appeared on new BBC programme Yes Chef, which saw 16 chefs mentor amateur home cooks to do battle in the kitchen. A new book based around the recipes and ethos of Manchester House will be published this winter.

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky welcomes European exclusive, Stack to Peaty Collection 

Premium Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, anCnoc has announced a brand new regional exclusive will join its Peaty Collection at Whisky Live Paris on 24^th September – a full-bodied, long-lasting smoky expression named Stack.

With just 6,000 bottles being produced, anCnoc’s limited edition will be released exclusively in Western and Eastern Europe before becoming available in Scandinavia from 21^st October.

Stack joins sister expressions Peatlands, Tushkar, Rutter, Flaughter, Cutter and Rascan in the award winning range carrying the names of traditional peat cutting tools, referencing the heritage within whisky making and bringing it into the modern day. The term ‘stack’ refers to the last step in the gathering process, where the peat blocks are stored together to dry ahead of being burnt.

The liquid, which is pale gold in appearance, introduced by an initial smoky aroma, is gently pierced by accents of lemons and oranges.  This citrus sharpness, so typical of anCnoc, slowly gives way to the softer sweetness of honey and vanilla. Earthy peat smoke is overlaid with dark chocolate while green apples complement this with a fruity tang.

Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, the Knockdhu distillery is on the doorstep of a region rich in peat which is combined with the clear, spring water from nearby Knock Hill to create the distinctive base for all anCnoc’s peaty expressions. Matured for more than 10 years in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, Stack has a full-bodied smoky finish owing to its phenol content of 20 ppm.

anCnoc brand manager Stephanie Allison commented: “We’re excited for the release of Stack as it complements the existing collection perfectly. Whilst Peaty connoisseurs will revel in its smooth smoky notes, we would encourage all whisky connoisseurs looking for something different to explore this beautifully crafted expression.”  

Stack follows the distinctive anCnoc Peaty style, packaged in green glass reflecting the look and feel of Peaty whiskies whilst using contemporary label designs to depict the distillery and its surroundings.Stack joins the Peaty Collection at a price point of £52 for 70cl and will begin to appear on shelves from 24^th September 2016.

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.

The Sazerac Company acquires The Last Drop Distillers

Sept 6, 2016: The world’s most exclusive spirits brand, The Last Drop Distillers Limited, is today announcing its acquisition by Sazerac – one of the world’s top selling global spirits brands, and one of New Orleans’ oldest family-owned, privately-held companies.

The investment that will be injected into the craft spirits brand through the acquisition will accelerate its ambitious growth plans whilst also allowing the existing Last Drop Distillers team to continue to run the business autonomously, with the small, personal operation remaining intact.

The Sazerac Company portfolio includes a range of global spirits brands: this acquisition will allow the company to extend its portfolio into the super-premium, craft market as well as expand its European footprint.

The Last Drop Distillers is a family-run company dedicated to discovering and bottling some of the most exclusive spirits in the world. Spirits pioneers James Espey and Tom Jago founded the company in 2008 after long and successful careers in the industry. Between them they created some of the world’s best-loved spirits brands, including Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Chivas Regal 18 Year Old, The Classic Malts, and, with Malibu and Baileys Irish Cream, two of the most original and successful new drinks categories in the world. Today, the company is run by their two daughters, Beanie Espey and Rebecca Jago.

The Last Drop Distillers story is now at an important stage. Having established its brand and business model, the company is looking towards accelerated growth as global demand for luxury goods continues to rise. This was recently acknowledged by the appointment of the former CEO of Morrison Bowmore Distillers, Mike Keiller, as a Board Director.

Mark Brown, president and CEO of The Sazerac Company said: “We are very excited to be partnering with such industry legends as Tom and James.  Equally, we are looking forward to working alongside their daughters Rebecca and Beanie as well as the rest of The Last Drop Distillers team in bringing some of the rarest spirits available to the global consumer market.  As a family owned company we fully appreciate the value of a small, engaged and passionate team in a venture such as The Last Drop Distillers and look forward to continuing the excellent progress the business has made since its inception.”

James Espey, Co-Founder and Chairman of The Last Drop Distillers said: “This acquisition marks the next stage of The Last Drop Distillers story that will see us take the brand into the next phase, while retaining and building on our core values of exclusivity, craft and excellence. The existing team of passionate and experienced spirits pioneers will continue to steer the direction of the brand, while the investment allows us to grow our international footprint and broaden our opportunities to search for the rarest spirits in the world.”

NOTES  

About The Last Drop Distillers Limited

The Last Drop Distillers Limited specializes in discovering and hand-bottling the finest, rarest and most exclusive spirits from remote cellars and warehouses across Scotland, and the rest of the world. The team’s quest is rigorous and painstaking, choosing only liquids that are old and rare, but fresh and delicious, a juxtaposition that makes The Last Drop collection truly unique.

The Last Drop collection currently includes:

• Release VI The Last Drop 50 Year Old Double Matured Whisky
• Release V The Last Drop 1967 Glen Garioch Single Malt
• Release IV The Last Drop 48 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky
• Release III The Last Drop 50 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky
• Release II The Last Drop 1950 Cognac
• Release I The Last Drop 1960 Blended Scotch Whisky.

Behind This Wall Autumn Menu Launch

Behind This Wall, the subterranean neighbourhood cocktail bar  on Hackney’s Mare Street,  has created a new cocktail and oyster offering that brings  together the world’s most Autumnal flavours in one highly conceptual  menu. Launching on 22nd September, Behind This Wall’s new menu  will fuse  the rich flavours of a classic New England fall with the spiced warmth of an Indian Summer.

Alex Harris is the co-founder, head bartender  and chef at  Behind This Wall  and  creator  of  the new seasonal concept. He has created the ultimate autumnal menu inspired by a fantasy place; a tropical island, influenced by the flavours of Indian trade roots and  the iconic  tastes o f New England.  This inspired  new  menu draws from the heat of the Indian summer with heady spices such as garam masala extract, cardamom tonic and naga chilli molasses, which complement and contrast the rich russets of
New England – absinthe-flamed maple bourbon cherries and cold apple cedar smoke.

The  new  menu blurs the  margins between food and drink; with many of the cocktails reading like a gastronomic experience. In structure, it is reminiscent of classic  hotel cocktail lists,  where drinks are grouped  by  time  of  day.  Behind  This  Wall’s  menu  is  thoughtfully  divided  into  aperitifs,  digestifs, highballs and pousse-cafes which seek to gently guide the drinker through the evening.

Example from the menu include:

  Hail  Mary:  Blended  Scotch,  clam  chowder  oyster,  garam  masala  extract,  Chesapeake seasoning, tomato, beetroot & celery juice, pickle juice, lemon sea foam and timut pepper £8

  Vieux Over Manhattan – 100 proof rye, sweet vermouth, pisco, herbal liqueur and cold apple cedar smoke £9

Complementing the cocktails,  Alex’s thoughtfully honed bar snack menu is inspired by  a melange of culinary influences ranging from Heston Blumenthal to Hawaiian chef, Roy Choi, and his mother , also a chef. Alex takes bar snacks seriously and believes they should be of equal calibre to the drinks menu and a vital part of the whole experience. He is an advocate of the pure flavours of raw eating and the autumn menu features inventive,  elaborate  and perfectly formed morsels  such as  pumpkin oyster
with  black  rice,  switchel  glaze,  lime  pickled  onions,  lemon  sea  foam,  Chesapeake  seasoning  withtoasted pumpkin seeds.
Alex Harris’s career in the food and drink industry started traditionally,  working with a catalogue of esteemed restaurants and bars  –  Met Bar, The Ritz, Soho House Group. This was unconventionally followed  by  an  interlude  as  a  music  technology  teacher  alongside  continued  mixed  bar  and promotional work at sorely missed club-land institutions: T-Bar and Plastic People.  Food, drink and music work hand in hand for Alex and after a successful pop up at events hub, Oval Space, Behind This
Wall found a permanent home for cleverly crafted evenings of music, poke and cocktails in March 2016.

In Hackney, basement bars are ubiquitous, but Behind This Wall contravenes the stereotype. With a white  tiled  bar  and  pale  plywood  seating,  the  aesthetic  is  Scandi-Japanese  –  bright,  tactile  and minimalist. Designed by friend and collaborator Elliot Barnes of Separate Blues, and part built by Alex himself, the venue is a blank canvas on which Alex has unleashed his culinary creativity.

THE MACALLAN CELEBRATES COMMITMENT TO WOOD

Limited edition gifting series launched

The Macallan single malt whisky has unveiled a new premium gifting series, inspired by the brand’s commitment to exceptional oak casks, featuring a range of whiskies in the current portfolio. This celebration of wood highlights the oak casks which deliver 100% natural colour and account for up to 80% of the character of The Macallan.

The Macallan’s commitment to wood is unrivalled in the industry. From each acorn and individual tree, through to the selection of the sherry bodega that seasons the cask to their specifications, this obsession ensures The Macallan produces exceptional whiskies with rich colour and flavour delivered from the casks.

This new series, which features three distinct designs, is to be released sequentially over the next three years, beginning with Oak Forests.

The limited edition Oak Forests value added gift packs include The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Carton, The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Tin, The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Glass Pack and The Macallan Amber Glass & Water Jug Pack.

Available for a limited time only, this gifting series makes for the ideal gift or a collectable for any Macallan whisky enthusiast and has real standout appeal. The use of stunning photography showcased on these limited edition packs will appeal to those who love The Macallan and those looking for that special gift.

The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Carton

This single footprint carton box has a striking image which explores the journey of wood throughout the pack. The photography features on the limited edition label to help drive collectability and shelf-standout. The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Carton will be available from Sainsbury’s and Asda from September 2016.

The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Tin

A single footprint limited edition presentation pack made of tin with striking imagery reflecting an exploration of the journey of wood theme throughout the pack. The outer packaging will be collectable with the option of use by the consumer after purchase. The photography on the limited edition label will help drive collectability. The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Tin will be available from Waitrose and Tesco from September 2016.

The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Glass Pack

This double footprint limited edition rigid box has striking imagery which explores the journey of wood throughout the pack. The pack contains two etched whisky glasses inspired by the oak used to craft The Macallan’s exceptional casks. Distinctive glasses will be released annually to drive collectability. The Macallan Gold Limited Edition Glass Pack will be available from specialist and luxury whisky retailers from November 2016.

The Macallan Amber Glass & Water Jug Pack

This double footprint limited edition rigid box has striking imagery which explores the journey of wood throughout the pack. The glassware is bespoke to this limited edition, with wood etching featured on both The Macallan glass and water jug. Distinctive glasses will be released annually to encourage consumers to collect the series. The Macallan Amber Glass & Water Jug Pack will be available from specialist and luxury whisky retailers from November 2016.

The Macallan Gold value added gifting packs are available for an RRP of £38. The Macallan Amber value added gift pack is available for an RRP of £48.95.

Notes

The Macallan

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.

www.themacallan.com

Please savour The Macallan responsibly.

TOMATIN DISTILLERY TOUCHES DOWN WITH NEW TRAVEL RETAIL RANGE  

The Highland distillers are voyaging into the world of duty free having launched a series of new and exclusive whiskies available now in airports across Europe.

Making the most of captive holiday makers, the brand’s travel retail offerings are currently checking in to travel hubs initially around Europe, to be followed by the USA and Asia over the next few years.  The age statement collection comprises the distillery’s flagship 12 year old and three travel retail exclusive editions: an 8 year old, a 15 year old and a rare 40 year old vintage.

Stephen Bremner, Sales Director commented:

‘We have been working on a strategy to establish our presence in the travel retail market for some time now in response to growing demand for Tomatin single malt on a global level.  While the majority of Scotch brands have elected to present no-age statement duty free ranges, our collection of age statement whiskies provides a point of difference. This is a priority market for us as it provides an introduction to Tomatin for thousands of globe-trotters so we wanted to create a range that caters for all tastes and budgets, whether you’re a whisky novice or a high-end collector.

The range is already en route to several airports and we look forward to seeing the brand in airports across Europe over the coming months.  There’s great potential in each of these markets and we hope that the success we have seen recently with our core range will be mirrored within travel retail, with sales of the core Tomatin range increasing dramatically over the past few years.  We have seen sales growth of 60% in our branded goods over the last 4 years and currently exports make up 92% of our business.  It’s an encouraging sign for the future.’

World-renowned whisky connoisseur Charles MacLean has already sampled the range and described it as: ‘First rate, with an elegant sweet and spicy flavour profile across all the ages.’

Introducing the series is the 8 year old, matured in Bourbon and Sherry casks.  The nose has aromas of vanilla-sweetened baked apples and pears developing into deeper dark fruit flavours, gently balanced with ginger and cinnamon for a sweet and spicy finish. Bottled at a strength of 40% with an RRP of 35 Euro.

The Tomatin 12 Year Old is a 1 Litre version of the distiller’s flagship malt which has an array of accolades including a double gold from the San Francisco World Spirits competition 2016. With an ABV of 43% and an RRP of 41.50 Euro.

Next up to board the range is the 15 year old, matured in North American Oak.  Light and fresh on the nose, charming citrus fruits are well balanced with emerging honey and toffee flavours, lingering softly on the palate for some time. Bottled at a strength of 46%, the limited edition retails at 55 Euro.

The final expression is a 40 year old malt matured in Oloroso Sherry casks.  According to the distillery this is a smooth and rounded triumph of dark and tropical fruits resulting in a big and fruity finish with just a touch of oak.  Charles MacLean described this mature malt as ‘a highly distinguished whisky with a long, warming spirit’. Retailing at a price of 1250 Euro and bottled at 43%.

In addition to Tomatin single malt, the range will also include a 1 Litre bottle of Standard Edition Cù Bòcan.  This is the distillery’s only peated expression originally launched in 2013.  The spirit was recently awarded a silver at the prestigious IWSC 2016 awards.

For more information about the Travel Retail range visit http://www.tomatin.com/.

Notes

For more information about the Tomatin Distillery contact Shelagh Considine, Communications Executive on 01463 248 148 , 07970908111 ,shelagh@tomatin.com.

1. The Tomatin Distillery Co Ltd is a producer and blender of Scotch whisky, boasting a strong core range of single malt whiskies along with a range of popular blends.
2. Website: http://www.tomatin.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Tomatin1897

Twitter: www.twitter.com/Tomatin1897

3. The packaging was designed by Pocket Rocket Creative Ltd – award-winning design agency
4. Press Kit can be downloaded here: http://www.tomatin.com/contact/
5. The distillery was established in 1897, and while historically the whisky produced was primarily sold for use in other brands of blended whisky, the company is now very focussed on growing the Tomatin single malt brand in its own right.
6. Tomatin Distillery produces Tomatin Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Cù Bòcan Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
7. The distillery is owned by Japanese company Takara Shuzo: http://www.takarashuzo.co.jp/english/index.htm