As my colleague Jeff Jones and I sat on the plane to Scotland this past March, I said to him, “I’d like to find some alternatives to the standard heavy peat, heavy sherry formula that we seem to have fallen into. Rather than respond to the market, I’d like to start guiding it.” I don’t think I’m alone in my appreciation for nuance, subtlety, complexity and delicacy when it comes to classic Scotch whisky. While I’ve enjoyed the last decade of fashionable trends as they pertain to single malt, I don’t know anyone out there who cut their teeth on bold, brash whiskies like the heavily sherried, cask-strength Aberlour A’Bunadh or the incredibly peaty blast of pepper that is the Bruichladdich Octomore. Most of us started with old-fashioned Scotch like Glenlivet 12 or Glenmorangie 10, then worked our way forward from there.

Lately I’ve been feeling a little nostalgic for those early days of drinking, so I decided to make that a theme for this year’s trip: getting back to basics. That not only meant the basics of classic Scotch whisky enjoyment, but also a time when whiskies were interesting, dynamic and much more affordable. Of course, we’re not in control of pricing when it comes to supply. All we can do as a retailer is find creative ways to work backward once we know the costs. As someone who’s spent the better part of two years reeling from the housing costs of the Bay Area, I was even more determined to alleviate some of the frustration that has resulted from the rising price of fine Scotch whisky. How we were going to do it, I wasn’t sure, but come hell or high water I was going to find a way.

-David Driscoll, K&L Spirits Buyer

1991 John McCrae (Balvenie) 24 Year Old “Hepburn’s Choice” Single Barrel Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) ($129.99)

While it’s become common practice over the years for independent bottlers to label their single malt whiskies by distillery, there are a handful of producers who do not want their brand name to be mentioned or utilized by a competitor when selling casks to a third party company for blending use. To prevent that from happening, some producers practice what’s called “teaspooning,” meaning they add a teaspoon of a second whisky into the cask, instantly changing the whisky from a “single” malt into a “blended” malt. Once the whisky is “blended,” the name of the distillery can no longer be used on the label because it’s technically no longer a single distillery bottling. However, when you taste this single barrel of John McCrae blended malt whisky (aka teaspooned Balvenie) we’re pretty sure you’re going to be as thrilled as we are. To get a single cask of Balvenie is almost unheard of, and getting one this good for this price is a rare treat indeed. The nose is candied ginger, round vanilla, and sweet malty grains, and the palate builds into more cereal grains, dried fruits, honey, resin, and a beautiful, classic, old fashioned Highland Scotch finish of sweet biscuity malted barley. It’s the whole package from front to back and it’s naturally proofed down to 47.6% ABV. We think this will be one of the most spectacular deals of the year for fans of both Balvenie and delicious, no frills malt whisky.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 18, 2016

This is an interesting and lovely whiskey. There is a nice balance between fruit and malt flavors. It is drier and slightly lighter than distillery bottlings of Balvenie but offers the same high quality.The John Mccrae is a very good whiskey and should please most single malt drinkers.

Andrew Stevens | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 16, 2016

This bottle is ridiculous on so many different levels (and I mean this in a good way). First and foremost, it is ridiculously good, it is 24 year old whiskey that is complex and full of fruit. There is a subtly smoke that completely enhances the whiskey and notes of spice on the finish. The second reason this is ridiculous is that it is essentially Balvenie that has had a “teaspoon” of another whiskey added so as to not be true 100% Balvenie whiskey. It is also less sweet and richer than other Balvenie I have tried. The final reason is that with all of this amazing goodness going on it is $130, that price is simply ridiculous.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 11, 2016

Teaspooned Balvenie for a HOT price. Don’t sleep on this guy because it really is the quintessential great bottle of Scotch. Everything is in perfect harmony, the fruits, the richness, the grains, and the texture. It’s a smooth, supple, oily, and remarkable cask we managed to find and I think once you taste it you’ll be thinking about how many more you can afford to squirrel away for later.

1991 Glen Keith 24 Year Old “Hepburn’s Choice” Single Sherry Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) ($89.99)

This single sherry butt cask of Glen Keith is another K&L “refill” selection, meaning we purposely looked for whisky that had been matured in sherry casks that had been used previously. The result of refill aging is that the whisky still takes on some of the richer, fruity, sherry-esque flavors, but much more mildly, helping to maintain the integrity of the inherent malt character. In looking for delicious Scotch whisky that tasted like old-fashioned Scotch whisky, we came upon this outstanding Glen Keith: a Speyside distillery that’s part of the Chivas portfolio. The whisky is classic Highland in style. The nose explodes with cereal grains, apricots and pear, vanilla, and the faintest hint of almond. The palate shows a bit of rich Oloroso character briefly before giving way to the more standard dried stone fruit flavors and supple, malty deliciousness. It’s the price, however, that really grabs your attention: 24 year old, cask strength, single barrel, Speyside single malt for $89.99??!! Sherry-aged, no less! Thank goodness it was a big barrel because we’re sure this is going to be quite popular.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 24, 2016

This is almost the perfect Speyside malt in my opinion, a true Speysider in style, meaning elegant, herbal, floral, and ultra balanced. 24 years old (nearly 25) – Refill sherry, so right out of the gate we’re getting the wonderful juicy fruit on the nose. The palate is sweet floral honey and a wonderful rich mineral ton, with a slight fudginess on the finish. One tiny drop of water heightens the flavors gloriously and at this price is absolutely unacceptable to miss this one.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 18, 2016

This is a joyful and delicious single malt. In the nose there are rich and soft malty aromas. This leads to juicy and pretty flavors. The sherry aging is integrated and does not dominate but adds complexity.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 11, 2016

Our goal this year was to definitely shock the market and get people excited about old fashioned Scotch once again. I think this is about as exciting of a deal as we can offer: 24 year old cask strength, sherry-aged Highland single malt for less than a hundred bucks! Here we get nothing out of the ordinary, just rich grains, hints of sherry, sweet vanilla, and soft fruit. If you thought top shelf Scotch had been priced out of reach, we’re back to save the day.

1998 Royal Brackla 17 Year Old “Hepburn’s Choice” Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($59.99)

The Royal Brackla 17 year old completely caught us off guard on our recent trip to Scotland. We’d of course heard of the Bacardi-owned distillery, known for its role in blended whiskies, but we’d never tasted one quite like this. Joining us for the first time this year during the meeting was Hunter Laing’s master blender Tom Aitken who used to blend for Dewar’s back when Bacardi first bought the brand. Tasting samples with a veteran who understands the inner workings and the history behind some of these lesser-known distilleries is invaluable. Tom explained that former owner Diageo used the distillery as a sort of experimental lab during the nineties. They made all sorts of different styles back then apparently and the quality could be wildly variant. This particular cask was absolutely stunning. It was straw colored and light to the eye, but packed with so much flavor it was deceiving. There were definitely phenolic elements at play; very subtle hints of peat that worked as an undercurrent to all the sweet stone fruit and vanilla. The combination of grain and fruit was like a burst of classic malt goodness, but on the finish it turned savory with hints of sage brush and white pepper. All in all, this is an incredibly dynamic malt for the price and a great introduction to the distillery for newcomers. Bacardi has since turned Royal Brackla into its own single malt brand that should be on American shelves soon.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 24, 2016

What little Brackla we see on the secondary market is typically overpriced and under performing. This creamy little cask is NEITHER of those, instead it’s ultra affordable with maximum drinkability. This is what I’d easily categorize as a summer whisky. Fresh and open, but not boring. Creamy fruit all the way but not just one note the whole way through. Tons of citrus and meaty fruit, great vanilla and malty grain. A real treat to cheat the heat!

Andrew Stevens | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 23, 2016

In the embarrassment of riches coming from Scotland to us, there are always a few bottles that just absolutely stand out for me. On this incredible wave of whisky the 17-year-old Royal Brackla is one of those bottles. This distillery is owned by Bacardi and most of it goes into Dewars, so it is super rare to see any of it by itselfbut of course the geek factor of this only works if what is in the bottle is any good. It very much is good, in fact it is so good that one is almost forced to wonder why we are selling it at this price. The secret is that we can sell it as this price and so we choose to do that rather than be another place that overcharges due to high demand for whisky. On the nose there is almost a maple bar sweetness with notes of peat and orange peel. Elegant smoke balances the peat and salted notes and leads to a spice finish that is super smooth. This whisky is way to good to miss out on so I would recommend that you do not.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 19, 2016

I am really happy to see this product arrive. It is one of the single malts that stayed foremost in my mind from the buying trip I took to Scotland with David Driscoll. It is a bright , fresh and lively single malt that is maltly and complex with a subtle hint of smoke. Highly recommended.

Uberach “Assemblage” Alsace Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($59.99)

The special single malt of Alsace is a recreation of an age of tradition of distilling beer in the region. Jean Metzger is the force behind this very special malt, which is without a doubt the finest whisky being produced in France today. Alsace whisky has recently been afforded an official AOC, but Metzger has been producing whisky in Uberach for more than a decade. The distillery has always been considered one of France’s finest, renowned for their exacting distillation of perfectly ripened local fruits, but, with the help of local Brasserie, Jean Metzger had a vision of transitioning into a new era. Now they distill only malted barley. Using organic pilsner malt, about 1/3 of which is very lightly peated, Metzger adds the purest water in France sourced from the legendary Vosges Nature Reserve. The beer is fermented using the brewer’s yeast from the organic brewery down the way to about 6% abv. It is then meticulously distilled twice in tiny traditional Alsatian copper pots before being filled into either Vin Jaune, Rivasalte, Rasteau, new French oak or Banyuls casks. Each of these unique barrels provides a completely different flavor after maturation. This small batch is a selection from some of the distillery’s older stocks (around 6 years old), of reused french oak barrel and a second use Banyuls cask, selected and bottled by hand exclusively for K&L Wine Merchants. Expect big powerful aromas of ripe pear, candied yellow plum, and malty grains. Only 160 bottles.

Andrew Stevens | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 19, 2016

In the spirit of finding exciting new whiskey from non established whiskey places we bring you an excellent single malt from Alsace. A fruity, rich nose on the whiskey leads to a medium body with some vanilla, golden baked apple notes and a touch of baking spice. Medium heat and a somewhat spicy finish can be calmed down with a little water. Now I have another reason to love alcohol coming from Alsace.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 10, 2016

I think that this whisky should be in every whisky lover’s collection. It is delicious, interesting and a little different. There are pretty delicate floral aromas that almost cherry eau-de-vie like. In the mouth it is complex and soft with malt and fruit like nuances.

Hedgehog Single Grain French Whisky (750ml) ($44.99)

Theater lovers from across France congregate each summer to enjoy the Hérisson’s cultural gifts. Here, in the department of Allier – the center of France and the historic realm of the Duke of Bourbon – another gift awaits those who seek it. It was the Honorable Mr. Balthazar who, in 1983, decided to create a product of the region that captured its essence. Allier is renowned for two products, grain and oak. Together these two special ingredients make something that hadn’t been produced in the region in modern times, whisky! The Duchy of Bourbon would indeed inspire another great whisky to be created, The Hedgehog. Mr. Balthazar begins with the finest organic corn grown within miles of the distillery. These are then milled with locally malted barley and mixed with a small amount of milled local rye. In the American style, the entire wort – with no filtration – is fermented slowly over 10-14 day fermentation. A double distillation in a copper pot and filling at 60% ABV into new barrels fashioned from the famous Tronçais oak. These barrels, used by the world’s great wine and cognac producers, are the most sought-after in the industry. After one year in these new casks, the whisky is transferred for a minimum of 3 years into ex-cognac barrels where it mellows and matures. The result is one of the most unique spirits available anywhere in the world and K&L is the exclusive US purveyor of this fine whisky. We received a tiny allocation.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 12, 2016

This Whiskey is interesting, flavorful and off the beaten path.It has a mixture of grain, malt and spice aromas.In the mouth it is soft and dry with the influence of the wood showing itself with some spice flavors. One could say that there are cognac, single malt and bourbon influences in this delicious drink.

Michel Couvreur “Peaty Overaged” K&L Exclusive Malt Whisky (750ml) ($82.99)

The chance to work with Michel Couvreur on a special K&L whisky project was something that David and I had been dreaming of for years. We had heard the stories. This crazy Belgian had moved to Burgundy in the ’60s, carved out a wine cellar inside a mountain, only to fill it with Scottish single malt whisky instead of Pinot Noir. He set up camp in Beaune, ordered new-make spirit to be delivered by tanker, and drove down to Jerez himself, selecting his own sherry butts to insure only the finest quality casks for his contracted spirit. Unfortunately, Michel Couvreur passed away in 2013 from pancreatic cancer, thus ending the career of one of the industry’s most courageous pioneers. Luckily for us, however, apprentice Jean-Arnaud has carried on after studying under Michel for more than a decade. When we visited the underground cave, we were all in total awe. The tunnels of dripping stone go on forever, and the amount of whisky stored in this secret lair is jawdropping. We put our trust completely in Jean-Arnaud and are happy we did. Our peated version of the incredible sherry expression is a seamless creation that drinks like the best version of Johnnie Black ever, mixed with the most supple and soft expressions of Macallan. It’s a lush, unfiltered, creamy, caramel-laden dream of a whisky composed only of malts 12 years and older. There’s a bit of peat on the finish, but the soft sherry is the star. (NOTE: do NOT cut the hard wax seal, tap it so that it breaks)

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 25, 2016

This Michel Couvreur Malt Whiskey is a perfect marriage of smoke and sherry aged spirit. There is a nice amount of smoke aromas and flavors that are integrated well with the richness from the sherry barrels. On top of this it is complex and will surprise and delight.

Andrew Stevens | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 24, 2016

For those who missed out on the Compass Box “5th and Harrison” K&L Exclusive, for those who are starting to realize how good blended whiskey can be, or for those who simply love good Scotch here is a bottle for you. From Michel Couvreur comes a truly beautiful peated smoky whisky that is elegant, balanced, smooth, and just so good. A rich nose resplendent with notes of caramel, toffee and a hint of butterscotch lead to a full, rich Scotch. There is a lot of good baked fruit notes here with the peat accenting them and swaddled in smooth smokey notes. Despite the richness of this whiskey it is well balanced and never feels to full of itself and leads the palate to a lovely soft finish that fades slowly. Get a bottle of this now and buy another for a gift. This is completely worth it.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 14, 2014

The magnificence that is Michel Couvreur has always been clear, but it wasn’t until we stepped into the special cave, carved out of the rock, in Bouze-Les-Beaune that you can full appreciate the incredible endeavor in process at this fine producer. While this is by definition NOT scotch, because it is aged outside of the country, the old school practices utilized at here are unusual back in Scotland. The fact that these guys literally drive to Jerez to pick out fresh sherry casks (from Equipos Navazos no less) is totally unique in modern times. In fact, no producer of malt whisky is getting access to fresher barrels than these guys. Despite not being able to use the famous moniker, does not preclude this from being one of the most authentic and absolutely delicious malts on the market. Stupendous depth and complexity even at 86 proof, while the sherry is toned down from the standard version a subtle fino/amontillado quality exists in the back ground. This is pointed by a fabulous smokey sweetness, which hints at the source whisky. Maybe an island somewhere, maybe a drop of Islay, wildly high-quality Highland whisky with a French sensibility. A truly unique gem.

Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)

Email: wine@klwines.com

K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061

  San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

Beam Suntory Portfolio Awarded Top Accolades at the 2016 International Wine & Spirits Competition

Deerfield, IL (August 1, 2016) – Beam Suntory has been awarded multiple medals at the 2016 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), a worldwide competition that sets the benchmark for quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs. The most prestigious honors were awarded to Jim Beam Black® Bourbon and Knob Creek® Rye Whiskey, which received the Bourbon Trophy and Worldwide Whiskey Trophy in their respective categories. As the highest of accolades in the IWSC, trophies are presented to only one product per category each year.

“Our products are made with the utmost craftsmanship and care, so we are honored that their premium quality and exceptional taste have been recognized by such a prestigious blind tasting competition,” said Matt Shattock, Chairman and CEO of Beam Suntory. “We’re especially proud to see expressions from two of our most iconic brands, Jim Beam Black and Knob Creek Rye, lauded as the ‘best of the best’ in their categories this year. This is a wonderful tribute to Master Distiller Fred Noe and our immensely talented team at our distilleries in Kentucky, all of whom work hard to exceed consumers’ expectations every day.”

The judges noted that Jim Beam Black Bourbon is “a premium bourbon with a more flavorful character made to be sipped and savored.” At 86 proof, this bourbon is aged longer than original Jim Beam® Bourbon in the same white oak barrels, giving it a taste the judges described as a “full-bodied flavor with smooth caramel and warm oak notes.”

When tasting Knob Creek Rye Whiskey, judges noted “the sweetness of the wood aging and the fantastic balance of the spirit are nothing less than awesome” and described Knob Creek Rye as “a sipping spirit that requires contemplation and a smile in the mind.” Knob Creek Rye, with its unmistakable spiciness that stays true to the big, full flavor of Knob Creek, is the fastest growing rye whiskey today.

In addition to trophy wins for Jim Beam Black and Knob Creek Rye, Beam Suntory’s portfolio received 44 total medals, including multiple Gold and Gold Outstanding awards. The Gold award indicates the product is of superior quality, and the Gold Outstanding award recognizes that the product is of the highest quality. These Beam Suntory wins include:

•El Tesoro® Anejo Tequila – Gold Outstanding

•Jim Beam Black – Gold Outstanding

•Knob Creek Rye Whiskey – Gold Outstanding

•Auchentoshan® 18 Year Old – Gold

•Bowmore® 18 Year Old – Gold

•Bowmore® 25 Year Old – Gold

•El Tesoro® Reposado Tequila – Gold

•Knob Creek® Bourbon – Gold

•Laphroaig® Triple Wood – Gold

The IWSC, now in its 47th year, judges spirits with dedicated tasting premises, a permanent onsite cellar, and over 400 global experts who judge products for seven months of the year. To determine the winners, IWSC judges conduct a double-blind tasting for each entry, which is followed by a chemical analysis to test the liquid’s composition. Spirits that win top awards go through a second round of judging to compete for a trophy.

About Beam Suntory Inc.

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

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

Revealed: the world’s most daring whisky challenge

KARUIZAWA GEISHA SERIES BREAKS HK$1MILLION MARK AT BONHAMS HONG KONG WHISKY AUCTION 

A complete set of Karuizawa Geisha Series whisky sold for HK$1,102,500

A complete set of Karuizawa Geisha Series whisky, never before seen at auction, was sold for HK$1,102,500 at Bonhams Hong Kong Whisky sale on 19 August. The sale, which featured more than 260 lots of rare Japanese and Scotch whiskies, made a total of HK$8,889,580 Other highlights included a vertical selection of The Macallan. Offered as one lot, the 29 bottles covered the years 1958-1986 and were sold for HK$514,500. A highly sought-after Macallan 50 year old bottled in a Lalique decanter also made HK$514,500 and a bottle of The Macallan 1961 was bought for HK$220,500.

The Macallan: offered as one lot, the 29 bottles covered the years 1958-1986 and were sold for HK$514,500

Among Japanese whiskies, a set of Hanyu Ichiro’s Malt Clubs flush of malts 3,7,8,9 and 10 made HK$220,500 as did a set of Hearts flush of malts 3,4,8,10 and J. A collection of vintage bottles of Yamazaki sherry wood whisky from 1982 to 1986 sold for HK$171,500. A single bottle of Bourbon Van Winkle-1967 fetched HK$46,650.

A highly sought-after Macallan 50 year old bottled in a Lalique decanter made HK$514,500

Bonhams whisky specialist, Daniel Lam commented “This was a very strong sale with keen bidding both in the auction room and on-line. As expected, the Geisha Series attracted a lot of attention and there were high prices paid for The Macallan which maintained its position as the most desired Scotch whisky among collectors in Asia.”

NOTES

Enquiries For further information and images call Andrew Currie on +44 (0) 20 7468 5871, or email andrew.currie@bonhams.com or press@bonhams.com. NOTES FOR EDITORS Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. Today, the auction house offers more sales than any of its rivals. The main salerooms are in London, New York and Hong Kong. Sales are also held in the UK in Knightsbridge and Edinburgh; in the US, in San Francisco and Los Angeles; in Europe, in Paris and Stuttgart and in Sydney, Australia. Bonhams also has a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 25 countries offering sales advice and valuation services in 60 specialist areas. For a full listing of forthcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, please visit bonhams.com.

TOMATIN DISTILLERY LAUNCH LIMITED EDITION TRIO 

Highland-based Tomatin Distillery have launched a trio of special edition bottlings including a 14 year old Cabernet Sauvignon, 9 year old Caribbean Rum and 21 year old Oloroso Sherry single malt.

Each of the expressions are bottled at a strength of 46% and are set apart by the distinctive cask maturations.

The distillers’ focus on creativity shines through with a punchy medley of exotic flavours across the limited editions from the tropical explosion of the rum cask to the Oloroso sherry honeyed oak spice.

Opening the set is the 9 year old, fully matured in Caribbean rum casks and is the very first rum release from the distillery. It is described as enticing aromas of coconut and pineapple developing into creamy banana and vanilla custard on the palate, relaxing with lingering tropical fruits at the finish. There are only 6600 bottles available with an RRP of £39.99.

Next up is the 14 year old spirit, finished in red wine barriques. Tomatin explain that the whisky presents flavours of red fruits, honey and citrus spices, rounded off with a punchy fruit jam. Bottles are limited to 2436 with an RRP of £69.99.

Rounding off the series is the 1995, finished in Oloroso sherry casks which has also just been awarded one of the top 10 spots at the Whisky Fringe awards. According to the distillery the malt has flavours of heavy dried fruits, rich sherry, honeyed oak spice and dark chocolate. With only 1908 bottles available, this complex whisky it is the rarest of the trilogy and has an RRP of £99.99

Stephen Bremner, Sales Director commented:

‘Our dedication to continuous development of our products has been reflected in our growth of 60% in branded goods over the past 4 years. We are constantly striving to experiment and push boundaries with our Tomatin single malt to produce unique creations that appeal to our existing customers and a wider audience. The array of tropical notes, citrus spices and rich sherry infusions will entice a range of enthusiasts to sample the new products.

Recent triumphs at a number of prestigious awards including this year’s competitive Whisky Fringe which saw 3 of our malts in the top 10, are testament to our ongoing commitment to the brand.’

In addition to the limited editions, the distillery has also recently launched a 12 year old gift pack containing the flagship malt plus two free 5cl bottles of Tomatin Cask Strength and Tomatin 14 year old. Retailing at £39, the product will be available across retailers worldwide ahead of the festive period.

For more information about the new releases and to find your local retailer visit http://www.tomatin.com/.

Notes

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

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Tomatin1897

Twitter: www.twitter.com/Tomatin1897

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

“FROM DREAM TO DRAM”
KINGSBARNS DISTILLERY ANNOUNCES FOUNDERS’ CLUB INSTALMENT PLAN

Kingsbarns Distillery is delighted to announce that its Founders’ Club membership is now available to buy through an instalment plan.

The Visitor Centre was opened on St Andrews Day 2014 by the Wemyss family owners and the founder, local man Douglas Clement. Distilling started in January 2015, with the first cask filled in March that year. Scotch whisky has to mature for at least 3 years before it can be bottled, so Kingsbarns Single Malt Whisky won’t be available until later in 2018.

The Founders’ Club is an exciting chance for whisky enthusiasts to enjoy being a part of the journey for this new distillery. The Kingsbarns Distillery Founders’ Club is open to just 3000 members worldwide. Initially, a welcome pack is sent to all members, consisting of a 20cl bottle of Kingsbarns Distillery New Make Spirit, a Founders’ Club Glencairn glass, a membership badge and welcome letter.

Special members’ events are also be planned, such as the Founders’ Club dinner and free daytime tours on September 3^rd, recently announced to the current members who will have the privilege of being the first to taste our 18 month old spirit drawn from the very first cask.

William Wemyss, one of the Wemyss family owners and Managing Director at Kingsbarns Distillery explains further: “The first ever bottles of Kingsbarns Single Malt will be bottled exclusively for members of our Founders’ Club. It is expected that some of the first casks ever filled will be selected for this first bottling around mid 2018. Members will receive a bottle of this exclusive Kingsbarns Founders’ Club Reserve, enabling them to become one of the very first to taste Kingsbarns Single Malt. Following that, each year for 4 subsequent years, members will receive a further Founders’ Club Reserve bottle, allowing members to enjoy the progression of our single malt.“

Membership is priced at £500 plus shipping charges, ranging from UK at £40, Europe at £90, USA at £160 and other selected parts of the world at £300. Membership can be purchased in one payment or now spread over 12 months for an additional £20 administration charge.

Full details are available on the Kingsbarns Distillery website or in the Visitor Centre.

Notes

• Kingsbarns Distillery was officially opened on St Andrews Day 2014 and has been subsequently been awarded a 4 star visitor attraction award by Visit Scotland. The Visitor Centre is open daily for tours and has a shop and cafe.
• While the Kingsbarns spirit is maturing, Kingsbarns has launched the Founders’ Club. Membership benefits include a Welcome Pack and the first ever bottling of Kingsbarns Single Malt expected in mid 2018. A further 4 exclusive bottlings will follow.
• The founder of the distillery is Douglas Clement. Formerly a golf caddie, Douglas was inspired to open a distillery near to the famous golf courses in the St Andrews and Kingsbarns area.
• Distillery Manager, Peter Holroyd, is a graduate of Heriot Watt University Brewing and Distilling, and was previously head brewer at a craft brewery near Glasgow.
• The Wemyss family owners are from Scotland and their historic family seat is Wemyss Castle in Fife where they’ve lived since the 1300s.
• The Wemyss family also own Wemyss Malts which is an independent bottler with a whisky range including the blended malt whiskies comprising: The Spice King, The Peat Chimney and The Hive; single malt single cask bottlings and the blended Scotch named Lord Elcho after one of the Wemyss family’s ancestors; all of which are avilable for tasting and sale at The Kingsbarns Distillery.
• 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.

WHISKY LOVERS TREATED TO NEW VERSION OF RARE BLEND 

A rare blend of Scotch and Japanese whiskies has proven so popular that its makers have today released a third version for whisky lovers around the world.

The “Glover 18” is the third in a series of whiskies honouring “Scottish Samurai” Thomas Blake Glover and celebrating the long history of trade and friendship between Scotland and Japan.

Its owners, Edinburgh-based TBG & Co Ltd, said the new edition has already attracted a “very promising” number of international orders prior to today’s international launch.

The whisky brand takes its name from Thomas Blake Glover, nicknamed the Scottish Samurai because of the profound impact he had on the modernisation of Japan in the 19th century. Mr Glover was the first foreigner to receive the Order of the Rising Sun from the Japanese Emperor in recognition of his many achievements.

Jim Millar, a senior parliamentary adviser at Holyrood and director of TBG & Co Ltd, drove the idea. He said: “The Glover whiskies are a celebration of Scotland’s influence and its international friendships. They honour the achievements of Thomas Blake Glover and celebrate our important relationship with Japan, which continues to flourish, especially in the fields of trade, culture and education.”

TBG & Co confirmed it is now looking towards producing future variants with whiskies from other countries, with the team researching historical characters and options for casks from international single malt distilleries.

Director David Moore, an Asia veteran in the drinks sector and now Scotland-based, said: “We knew the idea behind The Glover was a strong one, but we’re still overwhelmed by the international interest the fusion whisky garnered, both for its concept as well as its look, aroma and taste. The first two editions sold out almost immediately and were heavily over-subscribed, finding their way to 15 international markets.”

“It’s clear there’s a strong market for these types of premium fusions between Scotch whisky and international whisky, which have their own unique character.

Mr Moore highlighted the ongoing relationship with the Fife-based premium bottler Adelphi, whose managing director Alex Bruce blended mature whisky from Longmorn and Glen Garioch distilleries in Scotland with exceptionally rare whisky from the legendary Hanyu distillery in Japan to create the Glover fusions.

Mr Moore said: “There are only a handful of Hanyu casks left in the world. For the Glover, Alex has worked his magic with this highly sought-after whisky to hone and perfect a beautifully balanced and sublimely satisfying dram.”

He also said TBG & Co Ltd was looking at funding options from Scottish Development International and Scotland Food and Drink, and that the company was also looking to appoint a project manager to oversee current operations, with the likelihood of additional employees further down the line as the business grew.

Mr Moore added: “Creating international fusions is not without its challenges, but the rewards are clearly there for people to see and taste. These whiskies are a celebration of Scotland’s internationalism, of its positive influence on other countries, of partnerships that reach across physical borders”.

“We think it’s worth trying that little bit harder to create these fusion whiskies, a drink that was made for sharing with friends.”

He said “orders have been very promising” and that cases of The Glover 18 are likely to be exported to more than 15 countries, including a significant amount to Japan. Domestically, previous editions of The Glover sold in luxury retailers Harvey Nichols and Harrods, as well as specialist whisky shops.

World-renowned whisky consultant Charles MacLean, who worked with Alex Bruce on creating the Glover fusions, also provided the tasting notes for the latest Glover brand. He described the whisky as: “Richly fruity – ripe pear, juicy red apples, cherries, orange juice – on a base of vanilla sponge, spread with strawberry jam and whipped cream.”

The two previous editions of The Glover were launched simultaneously on October 26th, 2015, in Tokyo and Aberdeen, where Thomas Glover is celebrated with an exhibition at the Maritime Museum, at an event that was also attended by Hajime Kitaoka, Consul General of Japan and Lord Bruce, Honorary Patron of the Japan Society of Scotland, and Councillor Jenny Laing, Leader of Aberdeen City Council. Glover was a native of Aberdeenshire and hails from Fraserburgh.

The 22-year-old version, of which only 373 were ever made, retailed at £1050 version. Now sold out, bottles of the 22-year-old have appeared on online auction sites for more than £2000 a bottle. About 1500 of the 14 year old version were made, selling at about £100 a bottle, for which again there is a healthy premium secondary market.

The Glover 18 (48.6%), of which 1448 were made, is available from whisky specialists, in strictly limited quantities, priced around £145.

What’s in a name? If it’s Glen Grant, Glen Murray or Ben Riach – free entry to Spirit of Speyside: Distilled

Brand new whisky festival waives entry fee for visitors who share a name with Speyside distilleries

Calling all Glen Grants, Ben Riachs and Glen Murrays…a VIP invitation to a gathering of Speyside’s best-loved whisky distilleries is waiting for you.

People who can prove they share the same name as any one of Speyside’s famous distilleries are being offered free entry to Spirit of Speyside: Distilled – a brand new food and drink event that will bring together the area’s whisky producers under one roof – and on their own doorstep – for the very first time.

Spirit of Speyside: Distilled takes place in Elgin – the largest town in Speyside – from September 9 to 11. It will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the area’s food and drink producers, and taste a fantastic range of whiskies, beer, gin and food.

Event organisers are prepared to waive the entry fee to those who can provide proof of their identity and while they do not expect to be overrun with people called Craig Ellachie or Rose Isle, they hope many other distillery namesakes will join the celebrations.

Spirit of Speyside: Distilled festival manager Pery Zakeri says, “I would imagine that there might be a few people out there called Glen Keith or Ben Rinnes. Who knows, maybe there are even some Mac Allans.

“Whatever the name, if they share it with one of our famous distilleries, then we will be happy to provide free entry to any one of the four sessions taking place at Spirit of Speyside: Distilled. After all, they are technically brand ambassadors for our Speyside whisky, spreading the name wherever they go in the world.

“Whisky is our most famous export but to the people who live here and who work in the industry, it is more than just a product to be bought and sold. It is the lifeblood of the area, so we salute all the Glen Grants, Glen Murrays, Ben Riachs – or Reiachs – out there who are flying the flag for Speyside.”

The event is an offshoot of the hugely popular Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, which takes place annually over the May Day holiday weekend. The event has been running for almost 20 years and attracts an international audience of whisky lovers.

It comprises almost 500 events over multiple venues, but organisers thought there was scope to create a mini-festival in one place that would appeal to people who enjoy whisky but do not want to create an extensive itinerary.

Spirit of Speyside: Distilled kicks off at Elgin Town Hall on Friday, September 9 with an evening session from 7–11pm. There are two sessions on the Saturday – from 1-5pm and again from 7-11pm – with the final session on the Sunday from 12-4pm.

It features a huge range of distilleries responsible for producing world famous brands, including Cragganmore, The Glenlivet, Aberlour and Cardhu.  There is also the chance to sample drinks from local craft breweries and gin distillers and try food from a number of local firms.

Visitors will be able to meet the people behind the products, from master distillers to brand ambassadors, and can also book their place on masterclasses covering topics from cocktails to food pairing.

Pery adds, “We’re delighted to be able to offer such a broad range of exhibitors, from global brands to small craft breweries that are just starting to make a name for themselves. There’s a really good buzz surrounding Distilled, and we can’t wait to raise our glasses and get things underway.”

Anyone who would like further information about entitlement to qualify for free entry should contact the Festival on enquiries@distilled.scot

Tickets, priced £20, are on sale now and the entry fee includes a lanyard, vouchers for five 10ml tasting samples of gin or whisky, a voucher for a tasting measure of a beer, a Glencairn crystal nosing and tasting glass, and a snack using local produce prepared by event caterers, Good Highland Food. There is also an on-site retail outlet being run by The Whisky Shop Dufftown.

There are limited places for masterclasses, full details of which are available on the Spirit of Speyside: Distilled website – www.distilled.scot – where tickets can also be bought. Distilled is active on social media at www.facebook.com/distilledscot on Twitter and Instagram @distilledscot and Google+.

Picture captions:

It’s destination Distilled as Speyside’s whisky industry prepares to gather together in its local area under one roof for the very first time – with free entry to anyone who can prove they share the same name as a Speyside distillery.

Festival manager Pery Zakeri says there will be free entry for Spirit of Speyside: Distilled for anyone who can prove they share the same name as a Speyside distillery.

GLENDRONACH RE-RELEASES 14 YO VIRGIN OAK WOOD FINISH

AWARD-WINNING GLENDRONACH is delighted to launch today (18 August 2016) its new special edition 14 year old Virgin Oak Wood Finish.

It’s a re-release of the critically-acclaimed 14YO Virgin Oak first issued in July 2010.

Bottled at 46%, non chill filtered and with natural colour, this delicious single malt was matured initially in European Oak casks and thereafter finished its maturation in a small batch of the finest Virgin Oak casks, giving the whisky its own unique flavours and aromas.

The result is a nutty, sweet and fruity dram bursting with banana, melon and coconut.

Sales Director Alistair Walker said: “Six years ago we broke new ground by releasing four new GlenDronach Wood Finishes, the ­first to be released by the distillery in its 180-year history.

“They were warmly received worldwide so today we’re re-releasing the 14YO Virgin Oak Wood Finish and I’m confident it will win even more fans.

Colour

Light gold. Freshly harvest straw.

Nose

Toasted oak elements which are so intense that smoky attributes emerge. Sweet and lush tropical fruits rise with prominence. Banana and cacao, with roasted coconut.

Palate

Spiced ginger and cinnamon cake with a beautiful smoky twist. Creamed desiccated coconut and fresh buttered toast with a handful of hazelnuts on the side.

Conclusion

A glorious nut feast with superb depth.

Keep an eye on the GlenDronach website http://www.glendronachdistillery.co.uk/ and Facebook page over the coming weeks for more information on new releases, tasting notes and exclusive product photography

BENRIACH LAUNCHES TWO EXTRAORDINARY WOOD FINISHES

WHISKY connoisseurs will be spoilt for choice today (18 August 2016) as BenRiach releases two superb whiskies; a new 17YO Pedro Ximenez Sherry Wood Finish and a fantastic 21YO Tawny Port Wood Finish.

The first BenRiach jewel is a new 17YO Pedro Ximenez Sherry Wood Finish. Sticky, sweet, spicy and tasting of dark chocolate and coffee beans, it has been matured in the traditional style in American bourbon barrels and replaces the renowned 15YO expression. This creamy, fruity whisky, at 46% abv, has been finished in Pedro Ximenez Sherry casks sourced from the bodegas of Jerez de la Frontera in Andalucia, Southern Spain.

BenRiach has long championed the use of Pedro Ximenez casks in which to finish its award-winning whisky. Maturation in these flavourful casks gives the whisky extra sherry sweetness and richness, darkens the spirit and adds notes of syrupy dried fruits, raisins and molasses on the palate.

Colour

Gleaming polished mahogany.

Nose

Creamy spices, chocolate and sugar-coated almonds flow over sweet sultanas and dark fruit cake.

Taste

Dark chocolate and freshly ground coffee beans merge with sweet dates and fresh figs. Delightful, peppery vintage oak and warm cigar box spices add to the long, contrasting finish.

Sales Director Alistair Walker said: “The 15YO took silver at the 2014 International Wine and Spirits Competition and I believe our new 17YO is destined to do even better.

“It’s a fantastic combination of oak, fruit, spice and sherry, with the sensational Pedro Ximenez influence lending this BenRiach a luscious dark chocolate flavour. It’s a liquid fruit bomb that’s full of sweetness.”

Next up is a superb 21YO Tawny Port Wood Finish. Tasting of fresh cranberries, orange peel and boiled candy, it is bottled at 46% vol and replaces the 15YO Tawny Port finish.

This remarkable 21YO was first matured in the traditional style in American bourbon barrels and then finished in a small batch of top-quality Tawny Port casks sourced from the Douro region in the north of Portugal.

During this second period of maturation, the slow interaction of the whisky with the Port cask results in sublime flavours and aromas – in particular, a distinctive and rich red fruit taste.

Colour

Rich amber with a copper glow.

Nose

A perfect balance of fresh cranberries and warm white pepper develops to a combination of tart raspberries and boiled candy.

Taste

Delicious toasted oak spices and hints of orange peel develop to a lively contrast of wild red berry compote and sour cherries, followed by a rich stewed barley character.

Sales Director Alistair Walker said: “We launched our critically-acclaimed range of wood finishes ten years ago and since then the response worldwide has been consistently excellent.

“At BenRiach we’ve carefully selected whisky that has been gently maturing in bourbon casks so that drinkers experience the full impact of the Tawny Port cask after it has been finished.

“It’s a phenomenal Speyside Single Malt with a tawny, fruity heart. A slight earthiness from the port is balanced with contrasting rich fruit characters and warm oak spices.