London art lovers get flavour of Cairngorms from Speyside Distillery art 

The ‘wildlife’ of the Cairngorms was taken to central London for an exhibition at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery. 

Wildlife images created by Speyside Distillery’s artist in residence were hanging at the Kings Road gallery and museum, bringing a flavour of the Cairngorms to the heart of the capital city. 

Prints by Joanna McDonough were part of an exhibition of works from The Prince’s School of Traditional Arts (PSTA) and Spey, the deluxe malt whisky produced at Speyside Distillery. 

Joanna’s work is inspired by the flora and fauna around the boutique distillery, set near Kingussie in the Cairngorm National Park, and her prints of otters, hares and house martins were selected for the collection of works submitted by PSTA students past and present earlier this month. 

Joanna finds the environment in which she lives and works stimulating for her screen printing and delicate pen and ink works. 

She says: “Otters can be found in and around many of the tributaries of the River Spey and are a wonderful sight to behold and I created ‘Otter Frolics’, a three-colour screen print with pen and ink drawn onto the print itself. 

“One of my favourites is of two beautiful hares. There was a hare living in the garden of the Speyside Distillery Gallery cottage and I often saw him lying in the summer sun. 

“In spring we had a very determined young house Martin trying to enter our home in Aviemore and it became quite a battle when the back door was let ajar, and my final print shows young house martins on a branch.” 

Earlier this year Joanna’s art formed a showcase of students’ work for the PTSA in Taiwan, an exhibition sponsored by SPEY. She will be returning to Asia to exhibit with the PSTA at The Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing in November. She also has plans to show her work in selected galleries in the Scottish Highlands this winter. 

John Harvey McDonough, CEO of Speyside Distillery says: “Joanna is producing some wonderful art. With our partners The Prince’s School of Traditional Arts , Joanna’s beautiful art merges naturally with the art of distilling – which is the beating heart of our boutique Speyside Distillery . As Joanna’s husband I am very proud of her and her skills as an artist.” 

The luxury malt whisky firm is a keen supporter of the PSTA, a post-graduate academic institution in London which was founded by the Prince of Wales and seeks to promote the traditional arts. 

The whisky brand has a strong presence in Asia, particularly Greater China, and it has sponsored Asian students to study at the PSTA, including the institution’s first Chinese national, who graduated this summer. 

Speyside Distillery, home of the SPEY brand of malt whisky, has been in production since 1990 and is operated by Speyside Distillers Ltd. For further information about Speyside Distillery, visit www.speysidedistillery.co.uk. Follow Speyside Distillery on Twitter @SpeySingleMalt and on Facebook at facebook.com/speysidedistillery

Evan Williams Bourbon and Major League Baseball Announce 2016 Partnership

BARDSTOWN, KY – Evan Williams Bourbon, the second-largest selling Bourbon in the world, is partnering with Major League Baseball to sponsor the 2016 World Series. As a proud sponsor of the 112^th World Series, Evan Williams will launch the largest sponsorship program in the Bourbon brand’s eight-decade history, including presenting sponsorship of MLB Network’s Emmy Award-winning program, MLB Tonight, during the Postseason.

The sponsorship will be supported nationwide through digital and traditional media. National advertising will feature a new co-branded television spot running on networks including ESPN, FS1, MLB Network, among others. A custom MLB-themed display featuring an Evan Williams jersey, hat and Louisville Slugger baseball bat will also bring the program into retail stores nationwide. 

As part of the World Series sponsorship, Evan Williams will send the grand prize winner and three friends on an all-expenses paid trip to one game of this year’s World Series. The World Series Sweepstakes is open now on the Evan Williams website at EvanWilliams.com/MLB and runs through October 14^th (Official sweepstakes rules here). An Evan Williams World Series Happy Hour featuring specialty cocktails will also be held around the World Series sponsorship. 

“As an authentic American brand, we are proud to support the national pastime by sponsoring Major League Baseball and the 2016 World Series,” said Chris Ratterman, Brand Manager, Evan Williams Bourbon. “Evan Williams has formed a strong partnership with MLB, focusing on the most exciting time of the year for both Bourbon and baseball to provide fans nationwide with new ways to experience seriously good Bourbon.”

Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon is the #2-selling Bourbon in the world. The brand is among the leaders in the rapidly growing American Whiskey segment. For the past three years, Evan Williams has been recognized by Beverage Information Group and Impact for sales growth. Additionally, Impact named Evan Williams Bourbon a “Blue Chip” brand – reflecting total value in the industry.

Founded in Kentucky by the Shapira family in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery continues its legacy as one of the foremost American Whiskey producers. Heaven Hill has cultivated the traditions and history of America’s Native Spirit with its fierce independence, passionate family ownership, dedication to quality, and thoughtful innovation. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains over 1.2 million barrels aging in 52 warehouses throughout Nelson and Jefferson Counties. It is home to an award-winning collection of American Whiskeys including Elijah Craig Bourbon, Larceny Bourbon, Evan Williams Bourbon, Pikesville Rye Whiskey, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky and Parker’s Heritage Collection. Heaven Hill Distillery currently holds the titles of Whisky Magazine’s Distillery of the Year, Whiskey Advocate’s American Whiskey of the Year and Rye Whiskey of the Year from Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible. 

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely.  Drink Wisely.”

This year covering 442 distilleries around the world!

* The Distillery Section completely revised with all the latest news
* The chapter on Distilleries Around the Globe now bigger than ever
* New exciting articles by distinguished writers such as Charles MacLean, Ian Buxton, Gavin D Smith, Becky Paskin, Neil Ridley and Jonny McCormick
* Completely new and expanded Japanese chapter by Nicholas Coldicott and Stefan Van Eycken
* More than 250 tasting notes, including Japanese malts and independent bottlings
* New feature – The State of Scotch
* A listing of more than 150 of the world´s greatest whisky shops
* The Whisky Year That Was – the most comprehensive summary you´ll find of the news and trends in the industry
* All the latest info on bottlings, web sites, books as well as the latest statistics and figures
* More than 500 colour photos All in all – the most updated whisky book on the market

Published by MagDig Media Ltd.
Publication date; 1 October 2016
Number of pages; 300
ISBN 978-0-9576553-3-1
Recommended retail price in UK; £13.95
Contact; ingvar.ronde@magdig.com
www.maltwhiskyyearbook.com

ROYAL SALUTE 32 YEAR OLD UNION OF THE CROWNS UNVEILED

– New permanent expression launched to celebrate the modern British Monarchy –

Royal Salute, the exceptionally crafted and aged Scotch whisky, has unveiled Royal Salute 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns, a new exquisite blend that unites precious single malt and grain whiskies aged for a minimum of 32 years. Celebrating the creation of the modern British Monarchy, which is the source of the brand’s inspiration and values, the expression will appeal to aficionados looking for a rare whisky experience and will be available exclusively through global travel retail.

Royal Salute 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns pays tribute to the events of 1603, when King James VI fused three mighty kingdoms to create the modern British Monarchy. Reflecting the significance of this historical event, the rare single malts in Royal Salute 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns also show the power of unity, combining precious whiskies to create an incredible experience that can boast to be greater than the sum of its parts.

Exceptional whiskies aged for over 32 years have been hand-selected from some of the best distilleries in Scotland, such as: Longmorn with its creamy texture; the characteristically fruity Glen Keith; the sweetness of Tormore and the richness of Braeval as well as long-since closed distilleries – Lochside and Caperdonich. With all of these elements combined the final expression offers a rich and fruity nose with flavours of soft caramel toffee, dark chocolate and orange with a touch of ginger cake.

Reflecting the rare liquid within, Royal Salute 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns is presented in an elegant porcelain flagon, made from the purest clay, water and tempered fire. The flagon, which takes ten days to make at the hands of highly skilled craftsmen, is embossed with a distinguished hand-hammered silver plaque, while a black stone set on a silver crown tops the bottle. Each bottle is unique, with the glaze giving every flagon an individual patina, the result of a secret firing process. The story of the Union of the Crowns is brought elegantly to life through the flagon’s long neck, which is decorated with a rose, a thistle and a shamrock.

Peter Moore, Prestige Brand Director at Chivas Brothers, commented: “We are very pleased to present Royal Salute 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns, a truly precious blend of aged whiskies. This unique Scotch unites the timeless tradition of our skills and history with a contemporary understanding of the whisky experience preferred by today’s discerning spirits drinkers. The British Monarchy has been at the heart of the brand since its foundation in 1953 and, as a true representation of the exquisite craft of the Royal Salute blending team, we expect this new expression to become a sought-after collector’s item for international travellers.”

Royal Salute 32 Year Old Union of the Crowns will be available in global travel retail from September 2016 at an RRP of 380 USD or local equivalent.

 NOTES

Tasting notes:

• Nose: Rich and fruity with notes of  peaches in sweet syrup, soft caramel toffee, cinnamon  and a hint of luxurious dark chocolate.
• Taste: Full and exquisitely smooth, sweet orange flavours balanced with soft ripe pear and a hint of liquorice and ginger cake.
• Finish: Long, sweet and smooth.

About Royal Salute

Royal Salute is a careful blend of matured malt and grain whiskies – with its youngest whisky matured for a minimum of 21 years. Created to mark the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, which was honoured with a traditional 21 gun salute, Royal Salute is steeped in tradition, while still firmly engaged in the modern world by constantly pushing the art of blending into new, creative and ambitious forms. Royal Salute is deeply involved in polo – the world’s oldest surviving team sport and a game that’s expanding in the modern era. The brand sponsors more than 15 international tournaments from the UK and the USA through Argentina and China to Korea.

www.royalsalute.com

About Chivas Brothers

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

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

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY INTRODUCES O.F.C. RANGE OF VERY RARE AND COLLECTABLE VINTAGE-DATED BOURBONS 

First Offering Only Available to Non Profits for Fundraising Efforts 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (September 21, 2016) This fall, Buffalo Trace Distillery will release three unique vintage-dated bourbons honoring the National Historic Landmark’s original name – the O.F.C. Distillery. During Colonel E. H. Taylor, Jr’s tenure, the O.F.C. Distillery was renowned for producing top class whiskey. The first vintages of O.F.C. Bourbon Whiskey coming in November are sure to be collector’s items and will be offered exclusively to non-profit organizations at no charge to raise money for their causes.  Although these rare whiskeys will not be available in stores or bars and restaurants, later vintages will be released to the overall market starting in the Spring of 2017.

All of the O.F.C. collection releases will be vintage dated according to the specific year in which the bourbon was distilled at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Each hand-cut crystal bottle will feature the vintage year on the label.

The first release is comprised of only 200 bottles; 100 bottles from the year 1980, 50 bottles from 1982, and 50 bottles from 1983.  Future releases will unveil whiskeys from the 1990s, including a 1993 vintage and several consecutive vintage years thereafter. Subsequent O.F.C. releases will follow year after year as vintages are produced and reach maturity.

Straight Bourbon whiskey must be aged in oak for at least two years, but these O.F.C. releases matured much longer. Recipe and age will vary by vintage, but many are expected to mature for twenty years or more. Barrels are evaluated regularly and some whiskey will be removed from the barrels as taste reaches the peak of flavor.

The packaging for O.F.C. matches the splendor of the whiskey itself, in lead free crystal bottles with detailed fluting engraved into the mold. Glass artisans cut the shoulder facets using equipment created exclusively for Buffalo Trace Distillery.  Each bottle then is manually polished to achieve maximum glass brilliance before in-laying cut copper lettering to spell out “O.F.C.” on the front.  A paper label is then hand applied below with the vintage prominently noted, along with a label on the back of the bottle noting the milestones for the vintage year of the bottle.  For example, the 1980 label memorializes the U.S. Ice Hockey team’s stunning victory over the Soviet Union, along with pop culture happenings and Ronald Reagan’s presidential election.  The bottle is then given one last polish for the ultimate premium presentation, while a cork stopper with a copper top adorns the top of the bottle to finish out this stunning bottle.

This bottle is a replica of an O.F.C. decanter dating back to the early 1900s found in the Buffalo Trace Distillery archives.  Equally as impressive as the bottle is the display box in which the bourbon is presented. The dark wooden box prominently bears the O.F.C. name in copper, along with a copper plaque depicting the year the bourbon was distilled. Upon opening the revolving door on the wooden case, the bottle is proudly displayed on a small riser, commanding attention as its prized possession is revealed. A provenance card is inside each display box, containing the same information found on the back label. Finally, each box is then packaged in a tasteful cream colored bag to protect it from any damage before placing it into the shipping boxes.

Non-profit organizations located in the United States who are interested in obtaining a bottle to use as a fundraiser for their charity should visit http://ofcvintages.com/ to fill out an application.  To be considered, organizations must submit an official U.S. non-profit tax ID number and use the bottle for fundraising purposes only. Applications will be taken online only and recipients of the bottles shall be notified by email by November 1^st, 2016, at which time bottles will be shipped free of charge. Charities will have until March 1^st, 2017 to auction their bottle and report back to Buffalo Trace Distillery how much money was raised.

      This is the second time Buffalo Trace Distillery has partnered with non-profit organizations to raise money. In 2011, the Distillery gave away 174 bottles of its Millennium Barrel, the last bourbon barrel filled on the last day of the last century. In total more than $150,000 was raised for various charities across the United States, with the top organization raising more than $7,000 for their cause.

      “These vintages are certainly unique and special whiskeys. We hope this O.F.C. collection can pay tribute to the many years gone by here at the Distillery. Each vintage has a story to tell indeed,” stated Kris Comstock from Buffalo Trace Distillery.  “To offer this first release to charitable organizations for their fundraising efforts makes this even more rewarding. We expect bottles to raise upwards of $10,000 each for worthy causes.”

Collectors interested in a chance to participate in a fundraiser can start checking the website in November http://ofcvintages.com/ for a list of non-profit organizations who will receive bottles for fundraisers.

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 1786 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 seven distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named Whisky Magazine 2010 World Icons of Whisky “Whisky Visitor Attraction of the Year.” Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 200 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/.

WHY WE TRUST CORK TO BOTTLE UP ANGEL’S ENVY® BOURBON

Hamilton, Bermuda, September 20, 2016 — While the heart of ANGEL’S ENVY® is rooted in Kentucky bourbon, its taste is a bit more international. Specifically, Portugal. Portugal is the source of the port casks that give its whiskey its subtle and distinctive flavors. But ANGEL’S ENVY, a Bacardi-owned brand, as well as many other wines and spirits in the Bacardi portfolio including its line of single malts and blended Scotch whiskies, D’USSE® and BARON OTARD® cognacs, and MARTINI® sparkling wines, owe Portugal a debt of gratitude for another surprisingly important contribution: cork.

Roughly half of the world’s cork comes from Portugal, and it’s one of the more sustainable materials on the planet. The trees, a subspecies of oak, live up to 300 years, and cork can be harvested from each tree every nine years once it reaches the age of 25. Harvesting occurs between the months of May and August when the cork can be removed from the trunk of the tree without permanently harming it. Cork forests provide a unique biodiversity to their regions, and many animals (and people) rely upon them for their survival.

Cork has many other uses: building material, shoe soles—it’s even used as insulation throughout spacecraft and can shield the crew from incredibly high temperatures. But even with all of these applications, 60% of all cork still goes into making bottle stoppers. As a bottle stopper, cork’s impermeability and elasticity make it ideal as a reusable stopper. And it’s eco-friendlier than plastic or metal alternatives. ANGEL’S ENVY puts a lot of thought into every aspect of its bottle, but for the brand, Portuguese cork was the obvious choice.

Since 2006, when Bacardi began tracking its global impact on the environment, it has improved both water use efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity ratio by 46%. Building on current programs and efficiencies that reduce its environmental impacts, the Bacardi Limited “Good Spirited” sustainability program sets specific goals in three areas to help the Company reach its vision of a net zero impact:

• Responsible Sourcing: Bacardi strives to obtain all raw materials and packaging from sustainably sourced, renewable or recycled materials while maintaining or enhancing the economic status of growers and suppliers. By 2017, the goal is to obtain 40% of the sugarcane-derived products used to make its rum from certified, sustainable sources – and 100% by 2022. This pledge from Bacardi is an industry first.
• Global Packaging: Bacardi commits to use eco-design to craft sustainability into its brand packaging and point-of-sale materials. By 2017, Bacardi plans to reduce the weight of its packaging by 10% and achieve 15% by 2022.
• Operational Efficiencies: Bacardi continues to focus on reducing water use and GHG emissions with a 2017 goal to cut water use by 55% and GHG emissions by 50%. Also, Bacardi aims to eliminate landfill waste at all of its production sites by 2022.

To learn more about Bacardi Limited and its “Good Spirited: Building a Sustainable Future” environmental initiative for sourcing, packaging and operational efficiencies across the entire Bacardi family of premium spirits and wine brands, visit http://www.bacardilimited.com/good-spirited.

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world, produces and markets internationally recognized spirits and wines. The Bacardi brand portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Blended Scotch whisky, ERISTOFF® vodka, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur.

Founded 154 years ago in Santiago de Cuba on February 4, 1862, family-owned Bacardi manufactures its brands at 29 facilities and sells in more than 160 countries. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.  http://www.bacardilimited.com/

Whisky Legend Richard Paterson Celebrates 50 Years in the Industry

‘The Nose’ to mark anniversary with a global tour 

The greatest whisky maker of his generation is set to celebrate 50 years of work in the industry this month.

Richard Paterson, renowned for his role as Master Distiller at The Dalmore Distillery in the Scottish Highlands, has spent the past 50 years of his illustrious career creating some of the worlds most coveted and iconic whiskies.

The landmark will see Richard, a true artisan, pioneer and innovator, host a series of tasting events around the world while showcasing a selection of bottles including the renowned The Dalmore Paterson Collection and the recently released The Dalmore Quintessence.

Richard Paterson has been at the helm of The Dalmore for nearly five decades. His unparalleled passion, expertise and intimate knowledge of rare and exclusive casks allowed him to create the category of super luxury single malt, a category he has been defining with The Dalmore ever since.

Nicknamed ‘The Nose’ for his exceptional ability to assess and understand the structure of whiskies through smell alone, Richard’s charismatic and energetic approach to illuminating the art of whisky making has earned him a legion of fans and a celebrity status amongst whisky lovers the world over.

At the 2013 World Whisky Awards, he was recognised by Whisky Magazine with an Icons of Whisky Lifetime Achievement Award and entered into the magazine’s Hall of Fame – a permanent tribute honouring those noteworthy individuals who have made a lasting contribution to the world of whisky.

Bryan Donaghey, CEO of The Dalmore owners, Whyte & Mackay said: “With a unique flair and unwavering passion for developing only the finest whisky, Richard continues to be a driving force in the industry. His natural ability is unparalleled and he is, without doubt, a master of his art. Watching Richard work with The Dalmore is inspiring, and we are privileged to be able to help him celebrate such an important milestone in his career.”

The Dalmore Master Distiller Richard Paterson added: “The past 50 years has flown by and I am so proud of what I have achieved in the industry. My time with The Dalmore has provided me with some of my fondest moments. The chance to create and work with the world’s oldest and rarest malts has been an absolute privilege and I’m forever grateful that I’ve been able to share these treasures with fellow whisky lovers across the world.

“While my work with The Dalmore has undoubtedly been a career highlight, I’ve also been fortunate enough to share my passion with whisky fans whilst contributing to the work of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. This variety has made my time in the industry all the more enjoyable.

“The next 18 months are shaping up to be among my best yet. I enjoy meeting people who have a passion for whisky and I’m relishing the chance to share my celebration with connoisseurs from across the world.”

A brand film has been created by The Dalmore to celebrate the life of Richard Paterson and his work to date in the industry. The film can be viewed at http://bit.ly/TheDalmoreRP50

Notes:

The Dalmore is the definitive luxury malt, since 1839.

Founded by Sir Alexander Matheson, a restless entrepreneur and international businessman, The Dalmore was born with a different purpose, to go above and beyond to create luxurious single malt whisky unlike any other.

An unbroken chain of exceptional whisky makers have been fulfilling Sir Alexander’s vision ever since, pioneering both aged single malt, and also multi cask maturation over 100 years before this was commonly adopted by others in the industry.

Richard Paterson has been Master Distiller at The Dalmore for nearly 50 years.  The whiskies he has created during his tenure have help Richard to achieve global celebrity status.  He is the man who, with The Dalmore, created the category of super luxury single malt, a category he continues to define to this very day.

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky launches first Single Cask to mark 60^th anniversary of La Maison du Whisky

Premium Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, anCnoc has announced it is set to release its first ever single cask bottling to mark 60 years of French whisky specialists La Maison du Whisky.

The exclusive liquid will officially become available at Whisky Live Paris on 24^th-26^th September to celebrate the role of the country’s largest rare whisky retailer in the evolution of the French market for premium whiskies.

Matured for over 11 years in first-fill American oak ex-bourbon barrel number 427, anCnoc 2005 is rose gold in appearance and has a unique and complex character. On the nose, wood smoke and burned stewed apples with elegant liquorice overtones are underpinned by the distillery’s signature rich vanilla and honey sweetness.

To taste, flavour notes include thick smoke on grated lemon peel and summer fruit salad. Honey and vanilla balance this out, eventually revealing spicy ginger. The finish is a combination of fruit and smoke; powerful and long-lasting.

anCnoc Brand Manager Stephanie Allison said: “There are only a few hundred bottles available of this single cask which our distillery manager Gordon has carefully selected for its exceptional flavour. This is the first time anCnoc has released a single cask – and what better reason than to commemorate this landmark anniversary for La Maison du Whisky.” 

Bottled at a cask strength of 58% vol, anCnoc 2005 will be available from 24^th September exclusively through La Maison du Whisky. RRP 119€ for 70cl.

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.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Unveils New Look for Weller Bourbon 

New Bottles and Labels Coming Soon; No Price Increases Planned

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (September 14, 2016) The well-respected W.L. Weller Bourbon brand will receive a packaging upgrade starting this December. Weller Special Reserve, Weller Antique, and Weller 12-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey will use a brand new bottle design that is taller and more sophisticated, while maintaining the curves of the current Weller bottle.

Each whiskey will have its own distinctly colored face label, which has been enlarged and includes a large cursive “W” on the front.  The brand name “Weller” has been enlarged on the front label for stronger and easier consumer brand name recognition, and the newly added back labels include information about William Larue Weller and the whiskey. These back labels share the life story of William Larue Weller, along with tasting notes for each respective expression. Born in 1825, William Larue Weller was one of the early distilling pioneers in Kentucky. After serving with the Louisville Brigade in the 1840s, Weller returned to Louisville to join the family tradition of whiskey distilling. He developed his original bourbon recipe with wheat, rather than rye in the mash bill. Weller’s original wheated recipe bourbon became so popular he was forced to put a green thumbprint on barrels to ensure that customers were receiving the real deal. His namesake company eventually went on to merge with Pappy Van Winkle’s A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery to form the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, one of the most iconic and beloved distilleries in Kentucky.

The Weller name is still so famous it is played up in the new label design, bearing “Weller” in a magnificent gold color front and center of the bottle and on the necker, making the brand easily identifiable on shelves and back bars.  The gold accents continue throughout the front label to add to the upscale feel.  The initials “W.L.” have been removed the front of the label in order to provide the correct amount of space for the newly enlarged brand name. The cap closure for each bottle has been upgraded as well to a high quality aluminum cap.

“The Weller Bourbons have an exceptionally smooth taste, and we wanted to design the new package to fully reflect the quality of the bourbon inside,” said Kris Comstock, marketing director, bourbon. “This new look is indicative of our strong commitment and plans for continued growth for the brand in the future.” The production of the Weller recipe has been steadily increasing the past several years at Buffalo Trace Distillery so there are no plans to slow down or stop production.  “We are committed to Weller and have no plans to discontinue or change the recipe, proof, or age of any of the Weller whiskeys,” added Comstock.

Over the past few years the Weller brand has won a host of awards, including: a Gold Medal for Weller Antique 107 at the 2016 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition; a Gold Medal at the 2015 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for Weller 12 Year Old; and a Double Gold for Weller 12 Year Old at the 2014 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, among others.

Weller Special Reserve and Weller Antique should be available in the new packaging this December, as with the next release of Weller 12 Year Old scheduled for spring of 2017.  This new look will affect 750mL, Liters and 1.75L size bottles. There is no price increase planned.  Suggested retail price for the 750ml bottles of Weller Special Reserve is $17.99, Weller Antique 107 is $19.99, and Weller 12-Year-Old $24.99 each.

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 1786 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 seven distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named Whisky Magazine 2010 World Icons of Whisky “Whisky Visitor Attraction of the Year.” Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 200 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/.

Luxco Announces New Distillery Name and Unveils Logo

Company continues construction on Bardstown distillery

(St. Louis) September 16, 2016 – Luxco has announced the name of the distillery it is having built in Bardstown, Kentucky: the new distillery, and the company managing all whiskey production, will be known as Lux Row Distillers. The family-owned company also revealed the new logo for the distillery. Construction on the project broke ground on May 2, 2016 with a ceremony including Luxco executives, Kentucky governor Matt Bevin and Nelson County dignitaries.

The distillery is located in Nelson County on a 70-acre site off state highway KY-245, in the heart of the Bourbon Capital of the World. When completed, the distillery building will be approximately 18,000 square feet and the overall site will include six barrel warehouses, a tasting room, and event space, in addition to offering visitors a new stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

“We have worked diligently to find the perfect and most inspiring name for the new distillery and we are excited to have landed on the name Lux Row Distillers,” says Donn Lux, Luxco Chairman and CEO. “We wanted the distillery, which represents a new chapter in our family and company evolution, to incorporate aspects of the Lux family name, the scenic property we are located on and the bourbon heritage of the area.”

The distillery is being built alongside an existing house on the property, which is registered as a National Historic Place and will remain. The property boasts scenic views. “When we drove into the property for the first time, we were captivated with the long and beautiful rows of trees that line the long driveway and felt that should be a part of the name as well,” says Lux.

With the rapid growth of Luxco’s bourbon brands, such as Rebel Yell, Blood Oath and Ezra Brooks, Lux Row Distillers will be positioned to provide the finest bourbon to meet Luxco’s ever increasing whiskey demand. The distillery should be operational in the last quarter of 2017.

About Luxco

Luxco, Inc. is a leading producer, importer and marketer of beverage alcohol products. Our mission is to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of our consumers, associates and business partners. Founded in St. Louis in 1958, where it is headquartered, it is owned and operated by the Lux family. Its portfolio of brands include: Juarez Tequila & Triple Sec, Pearl Vodka, Everclear Grain Alcohol, Arrow Cordials, El Mayor Tequila, Ezra Brooks & Rebel Yell Bourbons, Lord Calvert Canadian Whisky, St. Brendan’s Irish Cream, Salvador’s Cocktails, Yago Sant’ gria and other well-recognized brands. For more information about the company, visit www.luxco.com.