Spirit of cooperation ensures exclusive line up at Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

For malt connoisseurs, it is the chance to join one of whisky’s most elite clubs, one that gives unique access to distilleries that are never open to the public and the rare chance to meet some of the experts and legends who are synonymous with Speyside’s most famous export.

During one weekend in spring, whisky producers unite to rally behind the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival and offer exclusive tours, rare tastings and very special experiences that happen at no other time of the year.

It makes for an exciting blend of almost 500 events at venues ranging from small boutique distilleries to the homes of the biggest and best known global brands, and opens up almost all of the region’s 50-plus distilleries to whisky fans – at least those lucky enough to get their hands on some of the most sought-after tickets around.

The golden tickets for this year’s Festival were for an exclusive few to gain a behind the scenes glimpse of Speyburn and Balmenach distilleries. These distilleries entered the Festival programme for the first time this year and, not surprisingly, tickets sold out within hours of them going on sale.

However, there are many more Festival-only events that still have some availability.

Renowned whisky writer Dave Broom will deliver a Whisky Mountain Tasting of special drams featured on the Festival toposcope at the summit of nearby Ben Rinnes. The good news is that participants don’t have to pull on hiking boots and climb the region’s highest summit to enjoy this one – it takes place in its shadow, the comfortable surroundings of Edinvillie Hall.

Dave will share what makes Speyside and its whiskies so special to him, guide participants through the nosing and tasting of his personal selection of six very special malt whiskies from distilleries associated with this ‘whisky mountain’ and which are featured on the toposcope. Most of these will have been specially drawn from casks by distillery managers at his specific request and they include some outstanding releases which have recently attracted his attention.

There would be no whisky without barley and tours of Boortmalt Buckie Maltings will reveal all aspects of malting process including drying, storage, steeping, germination and kilning. The process will be described at each stage and its influence on distilling performance.

The small Speyside Distillery near Aviemore is the most southerly in the Speyside region, and it throws open its doors especially for the Festival, to welcome a limited number of guests to its Art of Distilling tour.

Alchemy and Angels will reveal fascinating secrets about the history and distillation of The Glenlivet from master distiller Alan Winchester. Alan, who was recently named the top Master Distiller of the Year, has spent over 40 years distilling whisky and is responsible for the enduring legacy of the iconic single malt. He will be joined by maturation director Brian MacAulay who is responsible for the selection of the casks used to mature this single malt whisky, who will share a tasting of drams from a selection of casks to illustrate their influence on the new spirit.

Cragganmore Distillery’s Drams and Scran sees distillery manager Kevin Innes pair five expressions of Cragganmore Single Malt with food that complement each expression in the luxurious surrounds of the Cragganmore Club Room. Visitors will also visit the duty free warehouse and have the opportunity to draw and enjoy a taste from a duty paid cask.

Those who have the nose for a good dram should join Benromach Distillery’s Stuart Urquhart, who is looking for discerning noses and palates to help choose the next single cask to be bottled as a Benromach Distillery exclusive.

A wonderful job for any whisky lover, it involves nosing and tasting a selection of cask samples, deciding on the winner, and writing the tasting notes for the next Exclusive Single Cask Distillery available only at Benromach. The ticket price includes a bottle of this exclusive malt once it has been bottled.

Meanwhile, a taste of history in the making is on offer during an exclusive festival tour called Decades of Glenfarclas – Tour and Tasting. This journey through the years at Glenfarclas culminates in sampling whiskies stretching right back over five decades.

And for those who are utterly devoted to furthering their knowledge about Scotch malt whisky, there are still some places available at the Spirit of Speyside Whisky School. During this three-day education experience, which starts before the Festival kicks off, students will be guided by experts in the distillation process and learn about all aspects of whisky making from malting to maturation.

All students who successfully complete the course will gain a diploma and a knowledge about whisky making on Speyside that is second to none.

Festival chairman James Campbell says: “Where else in the world can you learn about the art of distilling, pick the next exclusive cask, hear a master distiller discuss alchemy and angels or have a whisky tasting in the shadow of the region’s highest peak all in one weekend?

“The Festival has become a must-do for whisky acolytes at home and abroad and it is thanks to the support of our many partners that we have achieved that status.

“While there may be competitive rivalries within the industry, what we see during the Festival is unity and co-operation, making the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival the outstanding success that it is.

“Our partners show imagination and flair in coming up with new and dynamic offerings to add to our programme every year. It’s what sets us apart from other festivals and, I’m sure, it’s what keeps our visitors coming back year on year. It means the Speyside whisky experience is the most authentic you will sample anywhere.”

Based in the heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country, the five day festival has events from Kingussie in the south to Forres in the west and Buckie in the east.

Situated directly between the cities of Aberdeen and Inverness, Speyside is the base for many high-profile international brands.

More information about the event is available at www.spiritofspeyside.com and tickets are also available to buy on the website. The Festival is active on social media – facebook.com/WhiskyFestival and @spirit_speyside on Twitter and Instagram. Use the hashtag #dram17.

Notes to Editors

The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is committed to promoting responsible drinking. Visitors travelling to and from Festival events can take advantage of a range of transport options. Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has received funding from Event Scotland and is also financially supported by many other private and public partners.

The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund Programme 2014 to 2020. The Scottish Government is the managing authority for the European Regional Development Fund Programme.

EventScotland

EventScotland is working to make Scotland the perfect stage for events. By developing an exciting portfolio of sporting and cultural events EventScotland is helping to raise Scotland’s international profile and boost the economy by attracting more visitors. For further information about EventScotland, its funding programmes and latest event news visit www.EventScotland.org. Follow EventScotland on Twitter @EventScotNews.

EventScotland is a team within VisitScotland’s Events Directorate, the national tourism organisation which markets Scotland as a tourism destination across the world, gives support to the tourism industry and brings sustainable tourism growth to Scotland. For more information about VisitScotland see www.visitscotland.org or for consumer information on Scotland as a visitor destination see www.visitscotland.com. 

HOT DIGGITY DRAM! “SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP” ON HOLD AS GLEN GRANT AND WILD TURKEY BATTLE IT OUT IN TWITTER TASTING

WHAT:            A Twitter Tasting with a difference is on its way as for one night only… Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Wild Turkey Straight Bourbon Whiskey are putting the UK/USA special relationship on hold while the distilleries go head-to-head in a dramming battle, hosted by The Whisky Wire. Two whiskies from each distillery will do battle – Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch Whisky 10 years old, Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 years old, Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and Wild Turkey 101 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

WHY:               In all good spirits, the two top golden drops from either side of the Atlantic will take to twittersphere to take part in the ultimate whisk(e)y combat and provide tweeters with the opportunity to explore and appreciate some fantastic whiskies from either side of the pond.

WHO:              The Whisky Wire will host the event with various social media commentators tasting the whiskies and casting the votes.

WHERE:           Head over to www.twitter.com to follow #UKvUSA and the @TheWhiskyWire, @GlenGrantUK, @WildTurkeyUK handles.

WHEN:            Wednesday 22 March at 7pm GMT.

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 is currently the world’s number 5 selling single malt Scotch whisky and holds a range of prestigious industry awards.

The elegant and seductively smooth taste for which Glen Grant is renowned, 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.

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 Wild Turkey

The Distillery for Wild Turkey Bourbon is located in Kentucky, situated on a deep limestone shelf on the Kentucky River. The shelf acts as a natural filter and provides the distillery with crystal clear water, vital to making such a high quality product. The whiskey is fermented for 72 hours. Wild Turkey features the legendary father and son Master Distilling team of Jimmy and Eddie Russell, who have 90 years of combined experience making bourbon.

The famous Wild Turkey brand name first came about back in 1940 when distillery executive Thomas McCarthey took a few warehouse samples on a Wild Turkey hunting trip with a group of friends. The following year, his friends asked him for “some of that Wild Turkey whiskey” and the brand was born.

Wild Turkey is distilled and put into new oak barrels at a much lower ABV than most bourbon. This results in a much richer flavor, as less is cooked out during the production process. Ageing in the highest quality new American oak barrels with the heaviest char available (the Number 4 “alligator” char), imparts a smooth flavor and deep amber color to the whiskey. Wild Turkey is one of only a few bourbons to use this expensive, deep char.

The barrels are filled at the distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. http://www.wildturkey.com/

About Campari UK:

Gruppo Campari’s UK subsidiary, headquartered in London. A multicultural and dynamic team composed of 40 Camparistas from 10 different nationalities. Established on March 1st 2015, it took over from J. Wray & Nephew UK, a well-established brand builder and distributor of premium Jamaican rums. At the heart of Campari UK there are two main portfolio offerings: the Italian portfolio with heritage brands such as Campari and Aperol and the white & dark spirits portfolio, led by the Jamaican rum brands Appleton Estate Rum and Wray & Nephew Overproof, as well as Wild Turkey Kentucky Bourbon. The company spans an unrivalled premium spirits and specialty offer in its quality, innovation and style and is also the exclusive UK distributor for Bulldog Gin. www.campariuk.com

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, Cinzano, SKYY Vodka and Wild Turkey. Headquartered in Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Campari owns 16 plants and 2 wineries worldwide and has its own distribution network in 19 countries. The Group employs around 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: www.camparigroup.com . Please enjoy our brands responsibly.

BUSHMILLS® IRISH WHISKEY CALLS ON WHISKEY FANS TO HONOUR ST. PATRICK WITH NEW TOAST

Bushmills, Northern Ireland – Monday 13th March 2017: The oldest licensed distillery in Ireland is calling on whiskey fans to toast to St. Patrick in a bid to honour the world’s most popular saint.

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated by millions of people globally on 17 March and this year Bushmills® Irish Whiskey has released a compelling toast to give people a different way to celebrate the true spirit of St. Patrick.

The ‘Bushmills Toast’ is inspired by the ancient ritual of honouring someone with a drink and is the first official toast in the brand’s 400 years of distilling history. The toast gives people a true way to honour the legacy of St. Patrick, a man who lived in County Antrim where Bushmills Irish whiskey is also distilled.

The toast has been brought to life through a 40 second emotive video voiced by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Ciaran Lavery, who’s singular sound has racked up over 65 million plays on Spotify. A frenetic montage of bold imagery contextualising modern Ireland is juxtaposed by the voice of Lavery who is set to release his third studio album and embark on a tour of Europe, the UK, US, Ireland and Canada later this year.

Ciaran Lavery said: “I come from County Antrim where the Old Bushmills Distillery is located so it’s a real honour to provide the voice for the first official toast in the history of Bushmills Irish Whiskey. I‘ve been fortunate enough to have celebrated St. Patrick’s Day in many countries whilst touring, but time and time again it’s all about Irish folklore and the colour green, rather than St. Patrick the man. I approach my music with great honesty so it’s refreshing to see this honesty at the heart of the new ‘Bushmills toast’, which perfectly captures the modern attitude towards our patron saint.”

Colum Egan, Master Distiller at Bushmills Irish Whiskey, adds: “At the Old Bushmills Distillery we’ve always done things our own way and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day is no different. We pride ourselves on our unwavering character – doing what’s right rather than what’s popular and the new ‘Bushmills toast’ captures our ethos by creating a moment to celebrate the true spirit of St. Patrick.”

To watch the ‘Bushmills Toast’ and have your own Bushmills moment on St. Patrick’s Day, visit https://youtu.be/WA-1vWwpbzk

The Bushmills Toast

THIS IS FOR THOSE WHO AREN’T AFRAID TO STAY THE SAME

AMONGST THE FACE OF CHANGE.

WHEN EVERYONE ELSE SWAYS ONE WAY

THEY STRAY AGAINST THE GRAIN.

THERE’S LEVELS TO THIS MALTY STORY

IDEAS DISTILLED THROUGH GENERATIONS

A LEGACY OF CRAFT AND SKILL

THAT FUELS THESE CELEBRATIONS.

THIS IS TO THE HEALTH

OF THOSE WITH THE SPIRIT OF ST. PATRICK HIMSELF

WHOSE STORY’S WRITTEN ON THE ROCKS OF THE NORTH COAST SHORE

A DIFFERENT KIND OF IRISH, WHO LIVE BY ‘LESS IS MORE.’

SO HERE’S TO THE WILD AND HERE’S TO THE FREE

HERE’S TO YOU AND HERE’S TO ME

HERE’S TO THOSE WHO QUIETLY DO

THIS BUSHMILLS MOMENT GOES TO YOU.

About Ciaran Lavery

Coming from the tiny village of Aghagallon in County Antrim, Ciaran Lavery has racked up an impressive 65 Million plays on Spotify to date. He released his debut album “Not Nearly Dark” in 2013 , the “Kosher” EP in 2014, his second studio album “Let Bad In” in May 2016, a Spotify live session recorded at SXSW 2016 was released in August 2016 and he releases a live album, “Live at The Mac”, in December 2016. In 2016, he won the coveted Northern Ireland Music Prize and he is fast becoming one of Ireland’s most in demand exports. Ciaran has appeared on German radio and television, Spotify television in USA and was selected to play at Willie Nelson’s BBQ at Luck Ranch in Texas by the man himself. In 2017 Lavery is set to release his third studio album with his biggest tour to date taking in most of Europe, the UK, US, Ireland and Canada. Visit www.ciaranlaverymusic.com/ for more information.

About Bushmills® Irish Whiskey

Bushmills® Irish Whiskey is crafted in small batches at The Old Bushmills Distillery – Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery – at Bushmills, Country Antrim, Northern Ireland. The brand portfolio includes a range of quality blended and fine Single Malts. Bushmills is the only distillery in Ireland to make triple-distilled malt whiskey. This is at the heart of all Bushmills® Irish Whiskey and creates a unique combination of smoothness and richness. Within Ireland, Bushmills Irish Whiskey is the only distiller to produce both blended and single malt whiskeys.

Taste of Scotland arrives in New Brunswick for first Canadian judging session in major Scotch whisky awards

Frank and Jackie, who is originally from Scotland, have accompanied many Canadian groups across the Atlantic to visit the Festival and as well as enjoying all that the fun-filled five-day event has to offer, they also visit many other of Speyside’s attractions. The region boasts stunning landscapes, wildlife, castles, visitor attractions and is renowned for its golf courses.

The couple always cast their votes in the whisky awards when they visit the Festival, and they know exactly what they are looking for in a dram. Frank is a member and past president of The Whisky Tasting Society of New Brunswick – founded in 1982 and believed to be the oldest in Canada – and has chaired the organising committee of the group’s own Raise your Spirits Festival held each November, since the Festival began 22 years ago.

Frank says, “Scotch whisky interest in Canada is growing and there are many, many whisky tasting societies right across the country. I have helped many get started in the past 15 years.

“We have a great affinity with Speyside whiskies in Canada. Names such as The Glenlivet, Glenfiddich and The Macallan – these were the first names of Scotch whiskies that we recognised and were the first available in liquor stores. These whiskies led the way for the hundreds of brands that followed.

“The selection of the best whiskies in four categories will be extremely difficult decision for most whisky aficionados. The judges have done an amazing job just paring the list down to two in each category. No easy task and I suspect the voting will be extremely close. We think that Canadians are up for the challenge and think will embrace the opportunity to be involved.”

In the non-age statement category Aberlour a’bunadh is up against Tamdhu Batch Strength 002; while in the category for malt 12-year-old and under, the Aberlour 12-year-old will battle it out with Cragganmore 2004 Distiller’s Edition.

In the 13-20-year-old section it is a head to head between The Glenlivet 18-year-old and Glenfiddich 15-year-old. The two shortlisted whiskies in the 20 years and over category are Mannochmore 25-year-old Special Release and The Macallan 30-year-old Sherry Cask.

James Campbell, chairman of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, says, “When we discussed the idea of taking the judging sessions to international destinations, Canada was an obvious choice for us, not least because we knew it would be in Frank and Jackie’s capable  hands.

“The Lunar Rogue has built up an impressive reputation and is held in very high regard by whisky drinkers. I hope they will enjoy the chance to sample some exceptional Speyside malts, enjoy hearing more from Frank about what the Festival has to offer.”

The judging session for the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Whisky Awards takes place on Sunday, March 26 from 2-5pm at the Lunar Rogue. Tickets are available from the bar from March 16, either in person or calling 506-450-2065.

The international awards sessions have been supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.

Stuart Turner, head of EventScotland, says, “The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is a fantastic event and we are delighted to be supporting to take the Festival to the world. It is constantly finding innovative ways to engage with whisky enthusiasts. The global judging sessions are a great addition to the Festival and are the perfect stage for people to connect with this unique event while enjoying a wee dram of Scotland’s national drink.”

Based in the heart of Scotland’s malt whisky country, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival takes place over five fun-filled days from April 27 to May 1, 2017. It comprises almost 500 events, taking place from Kingussie in the south to Forres in the west and Buckie in the east.

More information about the event is available at www.spiritofspeyside.com/ and tickets are also available to buy on the website. The Festival is active on social media – facebook.com/WhiskyFestival and @spirit_speyside on Twitter and Instagram. Use the hashtag #dram17

Captions: Whisky lovers from Canada will be able to vote in the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Whisky Awards as the scheme holds an international judging session in Canada for the first time this year.

Frank and Jackie Scott (right) are pictured being presented with the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival International Ambassador Award by renowned French whisky writer, Marine Nouet.

1792 FULL PROOF BOURBON WINS GOLD AT AMERICAN WORLD WHISKIES AWARDS 

BARDSTOWN, kENTUCKY (March 15, 2017) – Whisky Magazine awarded 1792 Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with a Gold at the 2017 American World Whiskies Awards. 1792 Full Proof was first released last summer by Barton 1792 Distillery as one of its limited edition expressions, and will continue to be released once a year. The next release will be this summer in early June. Full Proof is bottled at its original 125 barrel entry proof and has a strong, full flavor that is balanced with sweet vanilla and notes of caramel. The American World Whiskies Awards were announced at the Whisky Magazine Awards America presentation held in New York on Feb. 28.Whiskies in each category were subject to rigorous blind taste testing to determine the very best.  For more information about the World Whiskies Awards visit www.worldwhiskiesawards.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 http://www.1792bourbon.com/.

ARDBEG LAUNCHES KELPIE TO CELEBRATE ARDBEG DAY  

Ardbeg is set to bring Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt to a close on Ardbeg Day, the global celebration of the single malt’s untamed spirit.

Ardbeg Day falls on Saturday, 3^rd June 2017.  This year, in homage to the sea that surrounds the Distillery’s remote Scottish island home, Ardbeg will again release a celebratory Limited Edition expression. Ardbeg Kelpie is the first Ardbeg to be matured in Virgin Black Sea oak casks.  Renowned for the deep flavours that they impart and rarely used in whisky making – these casks bring a distinct intensity to the world’s smokiest, peatiest Islay malt whisky.

Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation and Whisky Stocks, in his continuing search for intriguing casks, was inspired by the depth of flavour imparted by the Black Sea casks. Grown and seasoned in the Adyghe Republic, which leads down to the Black Sea coast, these casks impart incredibly deep flavours.

The whisky was then married with hallmark Ardbeg, matured in ex-bourbon barrels, to amplify Ardbeg’s characteristic style and create a whisky of incredible depth.

As the festivities begin on Islay, Ardbeg’s loyal following – the Ardbeg Committee – and their friends across the world will be invited to join underwater-themed events which pay tribute to the whisky’s namesake – the kelpie, this legendary water demon is said to lurk in the Atlantic Ocean off Islay’s shores.

Distillery Manager Michael (Mickey) Heads said: “Ardbeggians and their smoky malt friends will have the chance to celebrate with a dram or two of Ardbeg Kelpie.  With a heart matured in Black Sea casks, this whisky’s extraordinary depth and its waves of salty seaweed and tarry rope, hint at what might be hiding under the sea…”

“For now, the finer details of our plans for will remain a closely guarded secret, but rest assured Ardbeg Day 2017 will be another legendary worldwide celebration of all things Ardbeg.” 

Ardbeg’s general release of Kelpie at 46% ABV, launches on Ardbeg Day (3^rd June), the expression will be available to purchase from Ardbeg Embassies* for a two week exclusive period. Kelpie will then be available at Ardbeg Embassies, whisky specialists and department stores with a RRP of £98.00.

The Committee only release of Kelpie at 51.7% ABV will be made available on 16^th March 2017 at 9.00AM, exclusively from www.ardbeg.com/

Ardbeg Day will be celebrated at the distillery on Saturday 3^rd June 2017 and at participating Ardbeg Embassies around the world. 

Ardbeg Kelpie is non-chill filtered for extra texture and mouthfeel.

#ardbeg #untamed #islay

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Ardbeg Kelpie tasting notes at 46% ABV: 

Colour:                 Burnished gold

Aroma:                 A wonderful, intense, ‘dancing’ nose, with lots of different, intertwined aromas – powerful, oily peat, dark chocolate, smoked fish, hints of seaweed, and a curious, sharp herbal note. Waves of spicy black pepper.

A splash of water brings forth some classic Ardbeg notes, such as creamy coffee, smoked fudge and pine resin.  Even some hints of smoked coconut.

Taste:                    A peppery mouthfeel is followed by a crescendo of rich flavours.  Treacle toffee, Turkish coffee, smoky bacon and lots of dark, dark chocolate.  A curious burst of peachy, estery fruit, hickory wood, clove oil and a suggestion of black olives.

Finish:                  Seemingly lasting forever, with deep, deep, almost subterranean flavours of clove, tar, and rich toffee.

Ardbeg Day:

Every year, the Islay Festival of Malt and Music takes place in May or June on Ardbeg’s island home.  On the Festival’s final Saturday, Ardbeg Day, the Distillery traditionally throws open its doors to welcome fans from all over the world.  In 2012 Ardbeg Day became a global event, enabling the whisky’s passionate international following to take part in a worldwide celebration of all things Ardbeg in their own country.  Recent Ardbeg Day themes have included the Islay-limpics and the Peat Football World Cup, while in 2015, Ardbeg Day celebrated the single malt’s 200th anniversary by looking forward 200 years to a retro-futuristic version of Islay in 2215.  For 2016, Ardbeg Day became Ardbeg Night, as fans at 215 events across the globe recalled Islay’s dark past as a smugglers’ haunt.

Ardbeg Kelpie:

Ardbeg Kelpie is a limited-edition bottling created to celebrate Ardbeg Day 2017.  It is the Distillery’s first whisky with a heart matured in virgin oak from the Black Sea coast.  Renowned for imparting incredibly deep flavour notes, only a handful of whiskies have ever been matured in these Black Sea casks.  Married with hallmark ex-bourbon Ardbeg, it results in a whisky of incredible depth, which tells of its ties to the Black Sea and the waves of flavour its casks have created. 

The kelpie:

Situated on the shore of Islay’s southernmost coast, the Ardbeg Distillery has always held a deep connection to the sea – and those who live nearby have passed down through generations the stories of mysterious beasts said to live beneath the waves.  Among the most terrifying of these is the kelpie – a Scottish shape-shifting water spirit, rumoured to take the form of a horse or a bull and prey on unwitting travellers.  Legend has it that long ago, a farmer walking near Ardbeg’s shoreline was almost dragged to sea by a water bull.  Managing to overcome and rope the creature, he locked it in a barn where it cried for mercy.  At dusk, the farmer’s daughter was chased by a water horse seeking revenge for its kin.  The terrified girl ran to the barn and released the water bull, whereupon the malevolent beasts took flight back to the sea.

Ardbeg:

Ardbeg is The Ultimate Islay Single Malt Whisky.  Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts.  Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction.  Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following.  

Ardbeg Committee:

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee.  The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”.  Today there are more than 100,000 members of the Ardbeg Committee in more than 130 countries.  Committee members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings.  Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events.  The Committee, chaired by Mickey Heads, is free to join at ardbeg.com.

Awards:

Ardbeg is the world’s most highly awarded smoky single malt whisky.  Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions.  Ardbeg was voted ‘Scotch Whisky of the Year’ twice by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible (2008, 2009) and has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 2013).  At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’.  The following year, Ardbeg’s expressions took the top three spots in Whisky Advocate magazine’s review of the best single malt Scotch whiskies under US$100.  Meanwhile, both Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Ardbeg Uigeadail have been awarded gold medals at the 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Glenmorangie Company:

The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.  Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt.

Responsible Drinking:

Ardbeg and The Glenmorangie Company advocate responsible drinking and suggest that drinkers savour Ardbeg whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.

Top of the Cask 

Independent, Family-owned Distillers support Traditional Skills as Apprentice Coopers Graduate 

Independent, family-owned distillers William Grant & Sons has pledged its commitment to continuing traditional skills with plans to recruit two new apprentice coopers for its Girvan Distillery this year.

The promise comes after the first two apprentice coopers in 24 years passed their Trade Test at the Girvan Distillery. Coopering is an ancient trade dating back to Roman times and is a physical job that requires great precision.

Stewart Millarvie (19) and Fraser Henderson (21) had completed three years and two months of their four-year apprenticeship when they passed their Trade Test in February 2017.

Two experts from the National Cooperage Federation did the final assessment. Fraser and Stewart will now complete their final ten months adjusting to their future work environment.

Girvan site leader Stuart Watts said: “Traditional skills are at the heart of the continuing success of our business. Our company has two cooperages, one in Girvan for our Grant’s whisky and another in Dufftown, home of Glenfiddich and The Balvenie single malts.

“The quality of the wood and casks used in whisky maturation is critical to the final characteristics of the spirit and we’re committed to retaining our own coopers to ensure our exacting standards are consistently met.”

The company’s latest graduate coopers are both from Girvan and joined the Distillery four years ago.

Fraser Henderson said: “We learned all our skills from our mentor, Paul Ross, who has worked for the company for 29 years.  As well as learning how to repair casks and make them, we work with different cask types from miniatures to 2,000 litre tuns.”

Stewart Millarvie (19) added: “We feel honoured to be able to carry on this traditional skill. To pass this stage of our training we had to sit a practical test for the National Cooperage Federation.

“It was bit nerve racking, but after four years of training we were ready for the challenge and we’re both delighted that we passed!”

John Gaffney is the Secretary and Treasurer of the National Cooperage Federation, which monitors the progress of apprentices through their four years and offers help and advice when it’s required.

John – who’s known Fraser and Stewart since they started their apprenticeship – is delighted at the news:

“I understand that they passed with flying colours, which is a fine testimonial to their tutor. It also offers up encouragement to the other apprentices who may be following along after them.”

There are currently 182 coopers and 49 apprentices in training in the UK – the highest number in 14 years.

John added: “We’re pleased to work with William Grant & Sons, both at Girvan and Glenfiddich, who are playing an active part in the work and duties of The National Cooperage Federation. This is all good news for the trade and will help it to prosper for the foreseeable future.”

William Grant & Sons will begin the search for its two new apprentices later this year. The vacancies will appear on the company’s website.

Stuart Watts explained: “Most young people have no idea what a cooper does, let alone consider becoming one. It can offer a very rewarding career and the fact that one of our Girvan coopers, Brian McKenzie, has been with us for 47 years shows it really can be a job for life. At William Grant & Sons we believe that combining traditional age-old whisky making skills with the latest technological advances will enable us to build upon our reputation for producing world-class spirits for generations to come.”

Coopering facts and figures 

• The Distiller’s Girvan cooperage was established in 1963 to provide casks primarily for maturing Grant’s whisky.
• The company currently employs eight coopers and four apprentices at its Girvan cooperage and a further eight at its Dufftown cooperage.
• On average a cooper can check and rebuild a cask in under thirty minutes and works on between 20 and 22 casks a day.
• A barrel contains, on average, 24 to 30 staves, two ends and six steel hoops. It is held together by pressure alone. There are no nails, screws or glue – just the skill of the cooper to get every joint exactly right to contain the spirit within.
• Nowadays casks are mainly used for maturing whisky, beer and rum. But in the past they were also used to transport all manner of goods around the world, for example fish, butter and salt.

A. SMITH BOWMAN DISTILLERY AWARDED for the SECOND YEAR IN A ROW

John J. Bowman Single Barrel Takes Honors

“WORLD’S BEST BOURBON” 

            Fredericksburg, VIRGINIA (March 8, 2017) – For the second year in a row A. Smith Bowman Distillery was awarded the honor of “World’s Best Bourbon” by Whisky Magazine. However, this year’s award was given to a different A. Smith Bowman bourbon, and was presented to John J. Bowman Single Barrel Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey. The Distillery’s Abraham Bowman Port Finished Bourbon was awarded “World’s Best Bourbon” in 2016.

           The Distillery received this award Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2017 at the Whisky Magazine Awards America presentation in New York City where Master Distiller Brian Prewitt accepted the award.

            “We could not be more excited to receive this honor for the second year in a row,” Prewitt said. “For our small distillery in Virginia, receiving the title of “World’s Best Bourbon” two years in a row for two different bourbons is something truly special for us. We’re very thankful for this recognition.”

            Whiskies in each category were subject to rigorous blind taste testing to determine the very best.

            For more information about the World Whiskies Awards visit www.worldwhiskiesawards.com/.

About A. Smith Bowman

1. Smith Bowman’s distilling roots date back to the years before Prohibition when the Bowman family had a granary and dairy farm in Sunset Hills, Virginia. They used excess grain from the family estate to distill spirits. In 1934, after the Repeal of Prohibition, Abram Smith Bowman and his sons continued the family tradition and built a more modern distillery in Fairfax County, Virginia called Sunset Hills Farm.  In response to the rapid rise of taxes in Northern Virginia, the Distillery was moved in 1988 and is now nestled in Spotsylvania County near the city of Fredericksburg, 60 miles away from the original location.

           As a small and privately owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded. Considered a micro-distillery by today’s standards, A. Smith Bowman produces an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural ingredients and using the latest technology. This micro-distillery focuses on the production of premium spirits honoring the legacy of Virginia’s first settlers. For more information on A. Smith Bowman, please visit www.asmithbowman.com/.

Glen Scotia offers dinner and a dram with Charles MacLean  

Dinner and a dram with world famous whisky writer Charles MacLean is on the menu for a handful of lucky Scotch enthusiasts at this year’s Campbeltown Whisky Festival.

Campbeltown, once regarded as the “Victorian Whisky Capital of the World”, is one of Scotland’s five malt producing regions. The independent Glen Scotia distillery, founded in 1832, is one of three surviving distilleries located in the town.

The exclusive event, organised by Glen Scotia, kicks off this year’s Campbeltown Whisky Festival and will also introduce the Limited Edition Glen Scotia 2017 Campbeltown Festival Bottling.

The cask was hand-picked by a panel including Iain McAlistair, distillery manager at Glen Scotia, and Charles MacLean, regarded as one of the industry’s foremost experts, from casks matured in the distillery’s refurbished dunnage warehouse, which dates from the 1830s. Just over 200 bottles of the Limited Edition malt are available.

The Glen Scotia Whisky Dinner takes place at Ardshiel Hotel on Tuesday 23rd May. The hotel’s award-winning whisky bar is acknowledged as one of the best in the industry and is thought to have the world’s largest selection of single malts, with over 700 varieties stocked.

The ticketed event, for 55 guests, will feature the finest local foods, including seafood from local producers and locally sourced venison. Each course of the dinner will be accompanied by a specially selected Glen Scotia dram and attendees will receive their bottle of the 2017 Campbeltown Festival whisky a day before general release.

Following the meal guests will have the opportunity to question author Charles MacLean, who has been researching and writing about whisky for over 35 years, conducting talks and tastings internationally.

Iain McAllister, Glen Scotia distillery manager, said: “It is a real honour to have Charles MacLean leading our first Glen Scotia Whisky Dinner, which also kicks off this year’s Campbeltown Whisky Festival.

“His participation is testament to how iconic the Campbeltown region is to the whisky world. One of the original five Scotch regions, Campbeltown was the epicentre of whisky making in the Victorian era and was known for its distinctive character and maritime influences.

“Our Whisky Dinner offers a chance to get to know Glen Scotia better and savour the wonderful whisky experience that is available here in Campbeltown.”

Charles MacLean said: “Campbeltown and Glen Scotia are undergoing a renaissance. Its people have a real passion for the place and its distilleries, and the fantastic work being done by Iain and the wider team at Glen Scotia is part of the spark that is reigniting the town.

“Whisky fans who attend the Whisky Dinner will have a chance to discover for themselves the fine malts that are being produced at Glen Scotia and gain a unique insight into why Campbeltown is such an important part of Scotland’s whisky map.”

Tickets are available from glenscotiashop@lochlomondgroup.com at a cost £150 including a bottle of the Limited Edition Glen Scotia 2017 Campbeltown Festival Whisky.

Jura Tastival celebrates flavour with inspiring new ways to enjoy single malt whisky. Each year, we invite whisky fans from across the world to join us for a full schedule of exciting events.

Kicking off on Thursday 1st June on the Isle of Jura, we will also be bringing Tastival to cities across Europe – keep an eye on our social channels for updates.

Nestled just off the west coast of Scotland, accommodation fills up fast on the Isle of Jura during the celebrations. However, neighbouring Islay offers a range of alternatives, with our complimentary ferry and shuttle bus service from Port Askaig making it easy to combine a trip to Tastival with a visit to Feis Ile. See here for more information to help start planning your journey now.

We look forward to raising a dram with you soon.

The Team at the Jura Distillery