Wemyss Malts Launch New Batch Strength Limited Edition Blended Malts Series

Independent bottler Wemyss Malts is releasing three new blended malts to complement its award winning range. Wemyss Malts – Batch Strength is a new range of blended malts that have been blended from a selection of extraordinary casks of single malt whiskies from over 10 Scottish distilleries, each utilising signature malts to define their flavour and aroma as the whisky names suggests.

The first three Batch Strength blended malts have been assigned Batch no.001. The Hive Batch Strength 001 – 54.5%alc./vol., Spice King Batch Strength 001 – 56.0%alc./vol. and Peat Chimney Batch Strength 001 – 57.0%alc./vol. have each been bottled non chill-filtered and at the strength found to be ideal for the character of the individual batch. Each of the new blended malts delivers intensified aromas, mouthfeel and flavours due to the increased strength of alcohol by volume.

William Wemyss, Founder and Managing Director at Wemyss Malts, commented: “Our new Batch Strength blended malts, consist of just 6000 bottles each, providing the whisky enthusiast and adventurous consumer with more variety in their choice of blended malts. Our Batch Strength range is intensely enjoyable neat, with ice and makes the perfect ingredient for quality, short whisky cocktails such as the Old Fashioned or Rob Roy.”

Wemyss Malts Batch Strength Blended Malts – Batch 001 will be available from mid-October from selected retailers in the UK, EU and key Asian markets with suggested retail prices ranging from £45 to £50. Future batches will be bottled in varying in quantities due to the amount of casks, volume of liquid and the final alcohol strength of each blended batches.

Notes:

 Edinburgh based Wemyss Malts is owned by the Wemyss family and their family seat in the brand logo is Wemyss Castle in Fife where they’ve lived since the 1300s.

 Wemyss Malts has an ongoing blended malt whisky range bottled at 46% comprising: The Spice King, The Peat Chimney and The Hive; single malt single cask bottlings and blended Scotch range, Lord Elcho.

 Wemyss blended malts have won prestigious World Whisky Awards four times: The Hive 12yo in 2012, Spice King 12yo in 2013, Velvet Fig in 2015 and Kiln Embers in 2016.

 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 has opened a single malt distillery at Kingsbarns, near St. Andrews in Fife www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com

GLEN GRANT’S NEW AGED RANGE HAULS IN AWARDS

Glen Grant 18 Year Old wins multiple accolades by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2017, including top honour, Scotch Whisky of the Year

Glen Grant 10 Year Old wins Best Single Malt Scotch (10 Years and Younger) for the fifth year in a row

Glen Grant 12 Year Old wins Gold at the International Wine and Spirits Competition

UNITED KINGDOM, TUESDAY 18 OCTOBER 2016 – Glen Grant’s new range of aged single malt Scotch whiskies continues to turn heads as it takes home some of the whisky industry’s most prestigious awards. Launched only a few months ago, each expression has now been awarded with a major industry accolade.

Glen Grant 18 Year Old, the rarest variant in the range, was just named “Scotch Whisky of the Year” by influential whisky writer Jim Murray in the 2017 edition of his famous Whisky Bible. It finished a very close second to overall “Whisky of the Year” and is the first Scotch to make Jim’s top three since 2014. The Speyside malt blew away Jim as he tested 1,241 new samples for the latest edition of his influential guidebook. He says: “It’s the best new offering from the motherland in a few years; a sensational return to form.”

Glen Grant 18 Year Old also won “Single Malt of the Year” and “Best Single Malt 16-21 Years.” Other expressions in the range to take home top honors in the latest Whisky Bible include Glen Grant’s most awarded expression, the 10 Year Old, which for the fifth consecutive year won the coveted Single Malt of the Year 10 Years and Under (Multiple Casks) category.

Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible is the world’s biggest-selling and most influential annual whisky guide. Industry renowned, the compact guide contains roughly 4,500 detailed, professionally analysed and easy to understand tasting notes on the world’s leading and lesser-known whiskies. Each whisky is tasted by Murray himself and graded with an overall score out of 100.

Not to be outdone by the 10 and 18 Year Old variants, Glen Grant 12 Year Old recently won a Gold Medal at the prestigious International Wine and Spirits Competition. The competition is one of the most respected tasting competitions in the world and recognizes and awards only the very best products in wine and spirits industry.

Founded in 1840 by brothers John and James Grant in Rothes, in Speyside, Scotland, Glen Grant boasts a remarkable, double distillation process, which sets its award-winning Single Malts apart from the competition. Created using tall, slender stills and distinctive purifiers, introduced over a century ago by the ingenious James ‘The Major’ Grant and still used to this day, it captures only the finest vapors, producing the refined and seductively smooth taste for which Glen Grant is renowned.

Dennis Malcolm, Glen Grant’s Master Distiller, commented: “We are humbled by all of the incredible awards our new whiskies are receiving. To be named “Scotch Whisky of the Year” is the stuff dreams of whisky makers like myself are made of. There’s a lot of love, passion, and perhaps a wee bit of magic that goes into creating our unique golden liquid, and we’re so proud to see that the consistent quality of these beautiful products is being recognized the world over by such respected industry leaders.”

Glen Grant 10 Year Old: RRP £34 70cl (40%ABV) www.thewhiskyexchange.com/

Glen Grant 12 Year Old: RRP £37.40 70cl (43%ABV) www.thewhiskyexchange.com/

Glen Grant 18 Year Old: RRP £110 70cl (43%ABV) www.thewhiskyexchange.com/ (available from November)

Further information also at:

www.glengrant.com/

www.camparigroup.com/

About Glen Grant

Glen Grant’s story began in 1840, in Rothes, Speyside – Scotland’s premier region for whisky production; by brothers John and James Grant. Still produced in Rothes today, Glen grant holds a range of prestigious industry awards, and is world renowned for its consistent quality across its aged variants.

The elegant and seductively smooth taste for which Glen Grant is famous, is the result of the innovative tall slender stills and revolutionary purifiers that James ‘The Major’ Grant, son of founder James Grant, was one of the first to introduce over a century ago. Still used to this day, this lasting legacy continues to distinguish the brand.

Today, Dennis Malcolm, the multi-award winning Glen Grant Master Distiller, directs and presides over the amber liquid. Born in the grounds of Glen Grant in 1946, he has worked for Glen Grant for over five decades, with an uncommon passion and unrivalled knowledge of the industry. Dennis’ unmatched Scotch whisky experience ensures that every expression in the Glen Grant range makes the absolute best of the complex alchemy of spirit, wood and time

The complete Glen Grant range includes the refined The Major’s Reserve, 5 Year Old, 10 Year Old, 12 Year Old, 12 Year Old Non Chill-Filtered, 18 Year Old and a selection of limited edition bottles; each with their own distinct flavour and aroma that perfectly captures the spirit of Glen Grant’s heartland.

Glen Grant became part of the Gruppo Campari portfolio in 2006. The ABV of each Glen Grant single malt Scotch whisky differs between each expression and consumers are encouraged to always drink responsibly.

About Gruppo Campari

Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., together with its affiliates (‘Gruppo Campari’), is a major player in the global beverage sector, trading in over 190 nations around the world with leading positions in Europe and the Americas. The Group was founded in 1860 and today is the sixth-largest player worldwide in the premium spirits industry. The Group’s portfolio, with over 50 brands, spans spirits, the core business, wines and soft drinks. Internationally-renowned brands include Aperol, Appleton Estate, Campari, SKYY, Wild Turkey and Grand Marnier. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 18plants and 4 wineries worldwide and has its own distribution network in 19 countries. The Group employs approximately 4,000 people. The shares of the parent company, Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), are listed on the Italian Stock Exchange since 2001. For more information: http://www.camparigroup.com   Please enjoy our brands responsibly

Lawrence Graham of Whisky Intelligence and the Victoria Whisky Festival has received a highly commended award in the annual Icons of Whisky Rest of World in the Scotch Whisky Brand Ambassador of the year category.

HIMSELF

In 2016 he was nominated in the category of “Rest of the World” World Whisky Ambassador of the Year in the Icons of Whisky and was subsequently shortlisted along with Candice Baker – Edrington Portfolio (South Africa), Ashok Chokalingam – Amrut Distilleries (India), Ian Chang – Kavalan Distillery (Taiwan), John Quinn – Tullamore D.E.W. (Ireland), Sayumi Oyama – Nikka Whisky Distilling (Japan) and Matt Jones – Beam Suntory (Canada) .

In 2014 he was made a Keeper of the Quaich in recognition for his passion for Scotch Whisky at as ceremony at Blair Castle. He is also a member of the Malt Maniacs and the Scotch Malt Whisky Society.

THE FAMOUS GROUSE BRINGS BACK THE BIRD THIS CHRISTMAS 

There’s already a sense of Christmas in the air but it will all become very real on Monday when The Famous Grouse is back on our screens with a brand new advert.

For over 20 years the famous bird has graced our TV screens, heralding the start of the festive season, and this year sees the brand’s icon return but in his natural habitat, in the Highlands of Scotland.

The UK’s No.1 whisky has created two new TV adverts communicating ‘perfectly balanced’ and ‘smooth’ – two key characteristics of The Famous Grouse – underpinning the quality of the nation’s favourite whisky.

The ‘Perfectly Balanced’ advert will air for the first time on 17 October on various channels and VOD with the second advert set to air in November.

“Our fans tell us they know Christmas is coming when they see our icon on TV” explained Johna Penman, Marketing Controller for The Famous Grouse. “This year he is back and can now be seen enjoying life in his natural habitat, whilst retaining his playful sense of humour.” 

Notes

About Maxxium UK

• Maxxium is the distributor of The Famous Grouse in the UK.
• The Famous Grouse portfolio includes: The Famous Grouse, The Famous Grouse Smoky Black, The Famous Grouse Mellow Gold, and The Naked Grouse.
• Maxxium UK Ltd is part of the global sales and distribution alliance between Beam Suntory and Edrington.
• Its UK portfolio of premium brands includes: Blended Scotch (The Famous Grouse, Teacher’s and Cutty Sark), malt whisky (Highland Park, Laphroaig, Bowmore, Auchentoshan, The Macallan, and Ardmore), imported whiskey (Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Knob Creek, Canadian Club, Red Stag) Japanese whiskey (Hibiki, Yamazaki, Hakashu), cognac (Courvoisier) vodka (Stolichnaya), rum (Brugal), liqueurs and specialities (Sourz, Midori, Bols liqueurs, Galliano, After Shock).

CLYDE MAY’S INTRODUCES NEW STRAIGHT BOURBON AND CASK STRENGTH WHISKEY 

New Products Deliver Premium Quality and Taste While Celebrating Alabama Iconoclast 

GARDEN CITY, NY, (September 20, 2016) — Clyde May’s Whiskey is pleased to introduce its newest premium spirits – a non-chill filtered, 92-proof STRAIGHT BOURBON and a 117-proof, 8-year CASK STRENGTH whiskey. Clyde May was a moonshiner by trade and a craftsman by heart, and in continued celebration of his legacy to craftsmanship, these smooth-tasting new products will debut on store shelves nationwide during September — Clyde’s birthday and National Bourbon Heritage Month. 

5-year, Non-Chill Filtered, 92-proof Straight Bourbon Paying homage to Clyde May himself – a moonshine icon who made the best whiskey Alabama ever tasted – and his dedication to his craft, this non-chill filtered straight bourbon is a classic 5-year-old, easy drinking spirit. Using simple and traditional ingredients, the bourbon mash is patiently aged in heavily “alligator” charred new American oak barrels to produce exceptional flavors that feature a soft, sweet nose of brown sugar, baked apricot, wild strawberry and nutmeg. Its soft palate delivers complex aromas of barrel spice, fruit and oiled leather, while the finishes are robust, long and delicious. 

Clyde May’s Straight Bourbon recently earned a Gold Medal in the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and received a 93 rating in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. It is best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a carefully crafted cocktail. 

8-year, Cask Strength

This 8-year old whiskey is bottled at Cask Strength to release a full nose of citrus, peach and cedar. At 117 proof, the Cask Strength delivers layers of rich spice, apple and oak on the palate, and finishes with a lingering complexity of zesty orchard fruits and white pepper. A spirit this pure is best served with just one large piece of ice to help bring out its natural flavors without watering it down. 

Much like when Clyde May distilled his renowned original moonshine, he did it in small quantities, and given the level of craftsmanship involved in creating Clyde May’s Cask Strength, only 3,000 bottles of this unique spirit were produced. 

“Using a lot of great care and consideration, both the Straight Bourbon and the Cask Strength Whiskey stay true to Clyde May’s heritage and his craftsmanship,” said Ron Call, Clyde May’s Whiskey Master. “I’m delighted that these two carefully-crafted spirits deliver such great character and intensity, while being exceptionally smooth and appreciated by whiskey drinkers of all calibers.” 

Jay Liddell, Clyde May’s National Marketing Director, said, “These new products both reflect the same great craftsmanship and passion that made Clyde May’s the Official State Spirit of Alabama, but also represents the future and potential of this brand.” 

The Straight Bourbon began national distribution in early September with a suggested retail price of $39.99, while the Cask Strength will hit shelves on October 1 and will retail for around $89.99. These two line extensions follow the brand’s first-ever line extension in October 2015 – a Special Reserve Whiskey for $59.99. 

For more information about Clyde May’s – the whiskey and the man – and to get delicious cocktail recipes, visit the website at www.clydemays.com. 

About Clyde May’s Whiskey

Clyde May was an Alabama farmer, war hero, moonshiner by trade, but a craftsman by heart who set out to make the best whiskey Alabama ever tasted. Using copper stills, fresh Alabama spring water and the finest local grains, Clyde perfected his own unique finish – Alabama Style – by aging small batches in charred oak barrels, adding oven-dried apples to produce a hint of green apple that made his whiskey particularly smooth and set Clyde May’s Whiskey apart. Today, Clyde May’s Whiskey, www.clydemays.com, is an award-winning portfolio with four distinct product lines – 85-proof Whiskey, 110-proof Special Reserve, 92-proof Bourbon and 117-proof Cask Strength. Clyde May’s is owned by Conecuh Ridge Distillers, LLC, and was named the Official State Spirit of Alabama in 2004.

Laphroaig 30 Year Old 2016 Edition

£948.28

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

LONGMORN UNVEILS LUXURY PORTFOLIO OFFERING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NOTES EDITORS

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

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

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

About Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky and the No.1 Scotch whisky in China; Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasbrothers.com

@ChivasNewsRoom

About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,682 million in FY16. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier‐ Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 85 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.
www.pernod-ricard.com

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

DESIGNED BY MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTOR AND PHOTOGRAPHER, DAVE MA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twitter: @Ballantines

Facebook: facebook.com/ballantines

Twitter: twitter.com/ballantines

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

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

About Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s No. 2 in wines and spirits. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky and the No.1 Scotch whisky in China; Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky; The Glenlivet, the single malt whisky that set the standard; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasbrothers.com
@ChivasNewsRoom

About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the world’s n°2 in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,682 million in FY16. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier‐ Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 85 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.
www.pernod-ricard.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notes

About anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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

About International Beverage

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

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

International Beverage brands include:

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

The Art of Whisky

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.glengoyne.com/

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

Notes to Editors:

About Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky:

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

About Glasgow School of Art:

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

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

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

About Jolomo:

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