JURA ANNOUNCE DRAM-TASTIC WHISKY FESTIVAL LINE UP

Sensory experiences will bring flavour to life at Tastival, Jura’s annual island whisky festival

Tickets today Tuesday 12^th April go on sale for Jura Tastival 2016 – back on the 25^th and of 26^th May – to inspire new and exciting ways to enjoy Jura Single Malt Whisky.

Tastival is Jura’s two day contribution to the Feis Isle Festival, which attracts whisky aficionados from all over the world to distillery open days each year.

The event on Jura invites guests to experience the island’s only distillery, while exploring the many different ways to enjoy its whisky through live entertainment, sensory tastings and exclusive tours.

The schedule has something for everyone – but whisky fans will have to be quick – 95% of tickets for last year’s event sold out in just 24 hours.

This year’s ticketed sessions include:

• Dine the Different Sides of Jura – An eclectic sweet and smoky menu from Jimmy’s pop up – taking their renowned pop up dining concept out of London for a one-of-a-kind whisky pairing.

• Dram Fyne – In partnership with renowned craft beer brewers, Fyne Ales, tickets are now on sale for this sweet and smoky themed beer pairing, putting some well hopped IPAs to the test alongside Jura whisky.In Conversation: with Richard Paterson – An exclusive Jura tasting session and Q&A with whisky legend Richard Paterson.  
• The Masters Tour – Jura Manager’s Willie Cochrane and Graham Logan will host this very special tour – a rare chance to experience the Jura still house as seen through the eyes of the people who make it.
•  Whisky on the Waves – Ticketholders will cruise into the open sea to savour Jura Turas-Mara the way it was meant to be experienced – with the wind and sea spray in your face.

In addition to ticketed sessions, the Cooperage will be free to access, where street artists from Recoat will bring to life the different sides of Jura on a large-scale mural, live in the Dramming Bar. The distillery will also run free tours of the still house throughout the day on a first come, first served basis.

Guests will also have first opportunity to try this year’s limited edition Tastival bottling, released especially to mark the occasion.  For 2016 Jura asked four artists from across the globe to create a unique illustrated design based upon their interpretations of the dram’s tasting notes.  Following heated competition, where fans voted for their favourite design online, Jura’s first ever crowd sourced packaging is ready to be revealed – and toasted – live at Tastival 2016.

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NOTES                                                                          

About Jura:

Jura is an island nestled off the West Coast of Scotland. With only one road, one pub, one distillery and 200 people, Jura is as beautiful as it is remote.

The distillery was established in 1810 and reborn in 1963 to revive the community.

Inspired by our history and our island home, we create single malt with a true passion for the craft of whisky making.

Luxco Announces Plans for Bardstown Distillery

Company to build distillery on Kentucky Bourbon Trail

(St. Louis) April 4, 2016 – Luxco announced today the company has finalized plans to build a distillery, located in Nelson County, Kentucky. Luxco has chosen to build the distillery on a 70-acre site off state highway KY-245 in the heart of Bardstown and Bourbon Capital of the World. The company announced preliminary plans for the distillery in late 2015, and the distillery is expected to be fully operational by late 2017.

Construction on the project will begin in the summer of 2016. Buzick Construction has been awarded the contract for the project. When finished, the distillery will be approximately 18,000 square feet, have six barrel warehouses and will employ an estimated 34 people. In addition, the distillery will feature a tasting room and event space and will offer visitors a new stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

“We are looking forward to building the distillery on this scenic property and in such a central location in Bardstown,” says David Bratcher, President and COO of Luxco. “We intend the distillery to be a welcoming stop for those visiting the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and we are excited to bring our bourbon experience and brands to Nelson County.”

The distillery will be built alongside an existing house on the property, which is registered as a National Historic Place and will remain. Architect renderings of the new distillery, created by Joseph & Joseph Architects out of Louisville, are available upon request.

With the rapid growth of Luxco’s bourbon brands, such as Rebel Yell, Blood Oath and Ezra Brooks, the company decided to build this new distillery in order to meet its increasing whiskey demand.

“At Luxco, we are always looking to be innovative,” says Bratcher. “Building this distillery will allow us to control our own production as well as offer us the ability to experiment with new and innovative mash bills, barrel types and aging techniques.”

Luxco has received support for the distillery from various entities within Kentucky.

“We are pleased with the support we have received from the Kentucky Economic Development Cabinet, the Nelson County Economic Development Agency and City and County government officials,” said Donn Lux, Chairman of Luxco.

The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) preliminarily approved the company for $1.3 million in tax incentives for the project. The Joint City-County Planning Commission also approved rezoning of the land for this project. Luxco also owns 50 percent interest in the Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky – which produces Yellowstone Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

“We are excited to have Luxco become a part of our community,” says Dean Watts, Nelson County Judge Executive. “Their history and success in the liquor industry will greatly enhance our County.”

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 http://www.luxco.com/

GLASSWARE FIRM LAUNCHES WHISKY-FILLED CHANDELIER

An exclusive glass chandelier featuring whisky-filled drops has been launched by a Scottish giftware firm.

Stirling-based Angels’ Share Glass has created the unique Whisky Drops Chandelier as part of their ambitious £25K Crowdfunding campaign for a new glassmaking studio.

Anyone who contributes £500 to the family firm’s appeal will receive one of the stunning chandeliers in return.

The Chandelier was designed by the firm’s talented glassmaker Bee Hardy, who has a background in creating lighting, and handmade by Bee and the firm’s co-director Karen Somerville.

Karen says: “We’ve always had great feedback about our signature product – glass angels filled with whisky – and we thought wouldn’t it be amazing to have a chandelier featuring whisky in the same way.

“Bee and I chatted through some ideas before she came up with her fantastic design featuring a copper fixture with long glass drops coming down which are either coloured or filled with whisky.

“We’ve only created four and they are all handmade and hand-blown so no two are exactly the same.

“If they prove popular we could look into designing more.”

The Whisky Drops Chandelier is the latest perk released by Angels’ Share Glass as part of the Crowdfunding bid to create a state-of-the-art glassblowing studio.

The family firm, which specialises in gifts for whisky lovers, wants to increase production and train up a new generation of glassmakers to continue its legacy.

Co-founder Tom Young has been making glass by hand using traditional methods for nearly 60 years and currently works out of a home workshop where he trains an apprentice.

But the firm’s success means that unit is now too small to keep up with demand and plans have been drawn up for a fully-equipped studio at the company’s premises.

The New Studio campaign is being run through crowdfunding platform Indiegogo and can be found at http://igg.me/at/angelsstudio

The Chandelier can be reserved in return for a contribution of £500 plus shipping.

Karen says: “I think our chandeliers would look fantastic anywhere – whether that’s in a home, a whisky bar or perhaps the entrance to a distillery – and they would certainly make a great talking point.

“We’re hoping they’ll provide a huge boost to our Crowdfunding campaign and our plans to create the new studio later this year.

“So far people have been incredibly generous with their donations and we’re genuinely touched with the amount of support we’ve received from customers, friends and business colleagues in our local community and from much further afield.”

Angels’ Share Glass has already raised £8,000 – just over 30% of the funds needed – towards the studio via the campaign which runs until the end of April.

More information about the bid plus a video showing Tom and Bee at work in their current studio can be found on the firm’s website – www.angelsshareglass.com

Notes: Angels’ Share Glass is a family-run business based in Bridge of Allan, near Stirling. The firm is co-directed by Karen Somerville and her father Tom Young – a world-renowned Master Craftsman who has been glassblowing and making lamp-work glassware for 60 years.

International Beverage Celebrates More Big Wins as San Francisco Results Announced

International Beverage Holdings has continued its remarkable winning streak this year with a clutch of eleven medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition – including the highest award for a recently launched expression of anCnoc Highland single malt Scotch whisky.

Results from these most respected and influential global awards saw anCnoc’s dark and smoky ‘Rascan’ – launched late last year as the fourth global expression in anCnoc’s successful Peaty Collection – take the highly coveted ‘Double Gold Medal’, indicating an outstanding product earning top marks from all competition judges.

In a field of more than 1,850 entries, the business scooped a further four Gold Medals across its exceptional portfolio – for anCnoc 12 Year Old, Old Pulteney 12 Year Old, Balblair Vintage 2005 and Hankey Bannister Original Blend.

Silver Medals were awarded to Old Pulteney Navigator, Balblair Vintage 1999, Speyburn 10 Year Old, Speyburn Arranta Casks and Caorunn Small Batch Scottish Gin, with Speyburn Bradan Orach taking Bronze.

Since its introduction in 2000, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition has grown to become one of the most respected and influential spirits competitions in the world. Winners are chosen during a rigorous four day blind tasting process, and achieving a medal indicates a spirit of the highest quality that is amongst the very best that the global industry has to offer.

These prized accolades for International Beverage come just days after ‘Maritime Malt’ Old Pulteney won another of the industry’s most prestigious prizes, with its 1989 Vintage crowned ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the 2016 World Whiskies Awards.

International Beverage Marketing Director Karen Walker commented: “This has been an extraordinary start to the year for everyone in our business. Spirits are still high following our huge win at the World Whiskies Awards, so this news from San Francisco means that the celebrations across our five distilleries will continue. These awards really are the top honours in our industry, and the tough judging process and strict criteria mean that a medal of any colour is very special. My congratulations and thanks go to our hard working and dedicated distillery teams who continue to craft spirits of such quality and character. We are all very proud to see their efforts recognised on the global stage in this way.”  

About International Beverage Holdings

International Beverage Holdings Limited is one of the industry’s most dynamic global drinks businesses. Established in 2006 as the international arm of ThaiBev, the company specialises in developing distinctive, premium local brands for global growth, with a portfolio that is led by a range of high quality Scotch whiskies and includes some of the fastest growing and most prestigious beers, spirits and whiskies on the market today. These high quality brands are enjoyed by consumers in over 85 global markets and include:

• Chang, Thailand’s iconic global beer brand
• Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc, Speyburn
• Blended Scotch Whiskies: Hankey Bannister, Catto’s, MacArthur’s
• Caorunn, a super premium small batch distilled Scottish Gin infused with 5 Celtic botanicals
• Thai spirits: Phraya, Mekhong

International Beverage’s international operation is headquartered in Hong Kong, with two major bases in China and Scotland and a growing number of regional hubs around the world. The business is focused on the delivery of winning investment, sales and marketing strategies and is committed to producing brands of character, representing the care and craftsmanship of the people that make them – from the brewers of Chang Beer in Thailand, to the distillers of the fine single malt Scotch whisky Old Pulteney in Scotland. Crucially, the global development of every brand continues to be rooted in its home territory, supporting the company’s mission to build authentic brands of outstanding character.

International Beverage is investing in ambitious growth across its global operation, employing over 850 highly skilled people across production, sales, marketing and finance, together forming an effective and expert international team

Back to school for lessons in whisky at the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

Imagine a school that is open just three days a year and is devoted to its students’ favourite subject, and it is little wonder that there’s world wide appeal – and a lengthy waiting list – for the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival Whisky School.

It’s an experience that couldn’t be replicated anywhere else in the world, as only in Speyside, a region which is home to more than half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries, can you find the unique mix of industry experts, specialist industries and the goodwill that make the whisky school the success that it is.

That’s the view of four whisky legends who, with a collective knowledge of 200 years in the art of making whisky, founded the annual school which has become a magnet for dram lovers from all over the globe.

During the comprehensive three day programme, students learn about single malt whisky production from the raw material to the finished product through a series of lectures from industry experts, complemented by site visits.

A love of whisky knows no boundaries, with past pupils coming from Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium Canada, China, Denmark, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, India, Israel, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Myamar, Netherlands, Norway, Qatar, Poland, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand and the USA, and of course the UK.

Despite the mix of nationalities, culture and language differences have never been a barrier, with a shared devotion to whisky serving as one of the best ice breakers around.

Students are drawn from all walks of life – couples, the retired, a bush pilot, paratrooper, doctor, even industry professionals with a thirst for tapping into the specialist insights on offer, are among graduates.

The majority sign up because they want a deeper appreciation and understanding of whisky; some even come with a vision of setting up their own distillery.

The school’s founding fathers Ed Dodson, Dr Tim Dolan, Charles Smith and Peter Warren got behind the venture in order to give something back to an industry which has been good to them.

They’ve found that same generosity of spirit across Speyside when seeking lecturers, venues to visit and other support for the school. Industry experts freely give of their time, and firms are happy to open their doors and welcome scholars to their venues, explains Peter Warren, who continued a four-generation family association with distilling, holding senior management positions and still working on a consultancy basis.

“The whole industry supports us, and everyone involved volunteers their time,” Mr Warren explains. “Like us, there’s a feeling that people want to give something back to the industry that they enjoy.”

Charlie Smith’s lengthy career in whisky management saw him work both in his native Speyside and other parts of Scotland. Mr Smith is adamant that for a complete grounding in whisky production, nowhere comes close to the experience offered on Speyside.

He says: “Speyside is the only place with the facilities that allow the school to reinforce what’s been taught in lectures with site visits. You just cannot replicate that anywhere else in the world.”

The exclusive school has places limited to just 18 in order to ensure students derive maximum benefits.

Dr Tim Dolan has extensive academic and industry experience which as well as management included teaching, coaching and lecturing. He says that although the whisky school could attract many more pupils, its protected size delivers better learning opportunities.

“Small is beautiful,” says Dr Dolan, “and the essential thing is to give the right experience, for students to be able to speak to lecturers and ask questions, and because space can be restricted on technical visits.”

Outgoing whisky school director Ed Dodson worked in the Speyside whisky industry for more than 40 years, retiring as manager at Glen Moray Distillery in Elgin in 2005, and has reflected on the whisky school’s success.

“We have people who are genuinely interested in discovering the art of producing Scotch. The big attraction is gaining a more detailed knowledge of production than can be obtained by just visiting distilleries or reading about it. Contact with the speakers and having questions answered in detail is important for the students.

“There’s always been international appeal and the main interest comes from the Scandinavian countries and Canada and USA. There’s been more interest from Asia in the last couple of years.

“I feel that it is the range of subjects covered by eight lectures, each presented by specialists and backed up with excellent technical visits is what makes this school unique. There are other excellent whisky schools but we are in the fortunate position of having different distilleries, a malting, coppersmith and cooperage to visit as a follow up to the lectures. Being part of the festival makes it even more appealing.”

Mr Dodson’s invaluable contribution to the whisky school has been lauded by festival organisers as he steps down from the role of director, to be succeeded by another whisky industry stalwart, Eric Walker.

James Campbell, chairman of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival says: “The whisky school is a real asset to the festival, whetting a thirst for knowledge about whisky production from people from all over the world. It is due to Ed and his associates that it has been the overwhelming success that it is, retaining its appeal and popularity over the years.

“Ed has been a great supporter of the whisky festival in many other ways too, and it is due to people like him who have enthusiasm and knowledge alongside experience and contacts in the industry that we are able to deliver events that satisfy the desire to learn, savour and enjoy whisky among aficionados from all over the globe.”

While the 2016 School is fully booked and the waiting list for 2017 is full, there are many other ways to appreciate whisky during the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival which takes place from April 28 to May 2.

Speyside contains over 50 of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries and the vast majority of them will be staging events during the Festival, including many that are not usually open to the public. Visitors can choose from over 400 events encompassing everything from whisky tasting and distillery tours, food events, music, comedy and cultural heritage.

Information about the 2016 Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival can be found on the website www.spiritofspeyside.com where tickets will be on sale from early February. The Festival is also active on facebook.com/WhiskyFestival and on Twitter and Instagram at @spirit_speyside. 

Photo: Toasting the Spirit of Speyside Whisky School are its founding fathers, from left, Dr Tim Dolan, Charles Smith, Ed Dodson and Peter Warren.

Notes

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 Highlands and Islands Enterprise 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.

Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design

2016 will shine a spotlight on Scotland’s achievements in innovation, architecture and design through a wide-ranging, variety of new and existing activity.

The Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design will run from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016 and will build on the momentum generated by the 2015 Year of Food and Drink as well as previous years including Homecoming Scotland 2014, the Year of Creative and the Year of Natural.

Through a series of exciting events and activity, the year will showcase Scotland’s position as an “innovation nation”, its outstanding built heritage, and its thriving, internationally acclaimed fashion, textiles and design sector.

The Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design is a Scottish Government initiative being led by VisitScotland, supported by partners including Scottish Government, Creative Scotland, Architecture + Design Scotland, Scottish Tourism Alliance, Scottish Enterprise, The National Trust for Scotland, Historic Scotland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).

The Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design events fund is managed by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate

Luxco Releases Blood Oath Pact No. 2

Ultra-premium Blood Oath Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey announces second expression in series

(St. Louis) March 28, 2016 – St. Louis-based Luxco has launched Blood Oath Pact No. 2 – the second expression in the limited release, ultra-premium bourbon series, Blood Oath. Blood Oath combines rare, top-notch bourbons, blended and bottled by hand for a distinctively exclusive and unimagined Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Pact No. 2 is a masterful union of three well-bred bourbons ranging in age from seven to 11 years. The first, a seven year rye bourbon finished in port barrels, is artfully joined by an 11 year wheated bourbon and an 11 year rye bourbon. Pact No. 2, bottled at 98.6 proof, is available in limited quantities nationally in 750ml bottles, with a suggested price of $99.99.

“Pact No. 2 is a rich marriage of three carefully selected bourbons, hand blended and bottled for a unique combination and exceptional taste,” says John Rempe, creator of Blood Oath and Director of Corporate Research and Development at Luxco. “The rye mash bill of the 11 year offers an oaky and spicy flavor, which is smoothed out by the extra-aged wheated bourbon – while the port-barrel finished rye brings it all together with a velvety sweet finish.”

Blood Oath Pact No. 2, just like its predecessor, is topped with a custom, eco-friendly natural cork, sealed and labeled with certificate-style paper stock signed by John Rempe. New for this year, each bottle of Blood Oath Pact No. 2 will be sold in a commemorative fire-branded wooden box. The Blood Oath series launched in 2015 with Pact No. 1, and will highlight a different variant, or Pact, each year.

“Pact No. 2 has a slightly fuller mouthfeel than Pact No. 1 with an oaky, caramel and cocoa aroma and a smooth flavor. The port-barrel finish really brings out the spice and fruit finish flavors,” says Rempe. “The freedom to choose the bourbons with the most complementary flavor profiles for Blood Oath allows us to create something truly special.”

Pact No. 2 is limited release, with only 7,500 3-packs created – this bourbon will never be made again.

For more information on Blood Oath, visit http://www.bloodoathbourbon.com/

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 http://www.luxco.com/.

Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival reveals plans for new project to visitor businesses at major tourism conference

Plans for a brand new festival that will bring Speyside’s whisky producers together under one roof for the first time were highlighted at a major tourism conference today (March 24, 2016).

Organisers of the world-class Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival outlined their proposals for the event to delegates attending the Moray Speyside Tourism Summit.

Festival manager Pery Zakeri said the three-day event taking place in the area’s capital town of Elgin from September 9 – 11 would deliver a boost to tourism businesses, bringing more visitors into the area at a time when the traditional summer season is drawing to a close.

The new event will feature up to 28 different whisky distillers from the region, along with local beers and gin and a wide range of food producers. There will also be a whisky retail shop organised by renowned specialist outlet, The Whisky Shop Dufftown.

Visitors will buy a ticket to attend one of four different sessions over the course of the weekend. Entry to each session will be limited to just 300 people, and demand is expected to be high when tickets go on sale later this year.

Festival manager Pery Zakeri told delegates at the conference, “This is a brand new weekend for Moray Speyside and we are hoping to attract a new, younger audience that will be different to the audience we attract to the May festival.

“We are looking to draw in people from Inverness, Aberdeen and the rest of Scotland and the UK, and while there might be an international audience, it will have more of a local focus in the initial years.

“It’s a unique event that will drive tourism to the region, and one that will add to the local events calendar and whisky events calendar.”

Although different whisky brands have been working together as part of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival for almost two decades, all of the activities for the that event tend to take place in their own distilleries.

This will be the first time that the area’s distillers will come together on their own doorstep under one roof. Elgin Town Hall has been selected as the location because it is the central point in Moray Speyside with good transport connections for road and rail, delegates at the Alexander Graham Bell Centre in Elgin were told.

Organisers believe the smaller, centrally located event will appeal to those who want to enjoy and learn more about Speyside’s whisky but do not want to plan a five-day itinerary for a major event like the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.

It comprises over 400 different events from distillery tours and tastings and from ceilidhs to comedy, and events are staged everywhere from Kingussie in the south to Forres in the west and Buckie in the east. The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival takes place from April 28 to May 2.

Commenting on what the new event will offer, Pery told the conference, “There will be world class whiskies, local gin and craft beers and of course a range of food producers. But the main thing will be the chance to meet Speyside’s whisky stars in one place at the same time.”

Tickets for the September festival are expected to go on sale in June this year and will be available at www.spiritofspeyside.com

Ends

JAMESON CELEBRATES ITS RICH HERITAGE WITH THE LAUNCH OF JAMESON CRESTED

Jameson, the number one Irish whiskey¹, has unveiled a new premium Irish whiskey, Jameson Crested. Launching internationally from April, Jameson Crested brings to life the rich history of the brand and its spiritual home of Dublin, and is set to further increase excitement around Irish whiskey across the globe.

Jameson Crested is a celebration of the first drops of whiskey that were bottled, sealed and labelled at the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin, marking the moment in time in 1963 when Jameson took full control of the whiskey making process, from grain to glass. Up until then, distillers – including the Jameson Distillery – sold barrels of whiskey to bonders to bottle themselves before selling on to Irish whiskey consumers. However, reports of a handful of whiskey bonders watering down their whiskey in the 1960s led Jameson to complete the process inside the distillery walls to protect the quality of the whiskey.

Launching internationally from April 2016, Jameson Crested is a triple-distilled Irish whiskey that brings together rich pot still Irish whiskey and grain whiskey, matured in a high proportion of sherry casks, as well as bourbon barrels. The result is a nose of vivid sherry and pot still aromas, a palate of toasted wood, spice and chocolate, and a warm, lingering sherry finish.

Daniel Lundberg, Global Brand Director for Jameson, comments: “The international launch of Jameson Crested is an exciting step as we celebrate the story of the first Jameson whiskey bottled at the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin. Jameson Crested has played a key role in the dynamic history of Jameson, and by bringing this expression to an international audience we aim to excite consumers the world over who are looking for Irish whiskeys rich in heritage and personality. As with all of our award-winning whiskeys, exceptional flavour comes hand-in-hand with remarkable stories; Jameson Crested is no exception, offering a new taste experience from the world’s favourite Irish Whiskey brand whilst retaining the recognisable smoothness that is distinctly Jameson.”

Jameson Crested is presented in a new design that reflects the rich history of the brand. This design showcases the product quality; the bottle’s tapered neck is left uncovered so that the cork can be clearly seen and is complemented by an authentic seal, which gently tears when opened for the first time. The new bottle design is used across the family of Jameson premium whiskeys that celebrates the rich heritage of Jameson, including Jameson Black Barrel.

Jameson Crested can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or with the gradual addition of water to release its complex flavours. Alternatively, the Jameson Crested & Soda long drink can be mixed in a high ball glass and built over ice using 50ml Jameson Crested Irish Whiskey, a quality bottled soda and a large wedge of orange.

Jameson Crested will be available at an ABV of 40% from April 2016 with an RRP of £29.99 or global equivalent per 70cl bottle.

NOTES

¹ Nielsen off trade value sales, MAT data 02.01.16

About Irish Distillers Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between Irish whiskey distillers, John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and the Cork Distillery Company. In an attempt to reverse the decline in Irish whiskey sales, the company decided to consolidate production at a new purpose-built facility alongside the existing distillery in Midleton, Co. Cork. Irish Distillers was bought by Pernod Ricard in June 1988 and today, Jameson is the No.1 Irish whiskey in the world, selling over 4 million 9L cases worldwide and contributing more than any other Irish whiskey brand to the phenomenal global growth of the category. Irish Distillers is committed to driving continued, sustainable growth of the Irish whiskey category.

Irish Distillers’ portfolio of whiskeys is comprised of Jameson, the world’s no.1 Irish whiskey; Irish favourite Paddy; Powers, the robust premium whiskey for discerning drinkers; and the much-acclaimed brands that comprise the Irish Distillers’ Prestige Collection – the Single Pot Still Whiskeys of Midleton which includes the Spot range (Green Spot, Yellow Spot) and Redbreast, Ireland’s most awarded single pot still whiskey brand – and the pinnacle of the Prestige Collection, Midleton Very Rare. www.irishdistillers.ie

About Pernod Ricard Pernod Ricard UK is part of Pernod Ricard, co-leader of the global wines and spirits industry. Globally, Pernod Ricard now represents 91 million cases of spirits and 25 million cases of wine, and owns 19 of the world’s top 100 brands.

Pernod Ricard UK has identified the following key brands in the UK market: ABSOLUT, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Chivas Regal, G.H. Mumm, Havana Club, Jacob’s Creek, Jameson, Malibu, Martell, Perrier-Jouët and The Glenlivet. Pernod Ricard UK is a member of The Portman Group promoting responsible drinking.

Follow us on Twitter: @PernodRicardUK

anCnoc Single Malt Scotch Whisky welcomes 2001 Vintage to portfolio of vintage expressions

Premium Single Malt Scotch Whisky, anCnoc has introduced an exclusive 2001 vintage to its multi-award winning range of vintage expressions.

The limited edition liquid joins the family of single malts crafted at the Knockdhu distillery in Aberdeenshire, and follows a string of successful new releases for the brand which positions itself as refreshingly modern whilst still paying homage to age-old tradition.

With just 1,000 cases available globally this exceptional single malt has an RRP of £55 for 70c Stockists include specialist and independent retailers in the UK, US, Canada, Sweden and Japan.

Matured in hand selected Spanish and American oak casks and matured for over 15 years in traditional dunnage warehouses, the 2001 has been bottled in its most natural form, neither chill-filtered nor coloured at 46% ABV.

The combination of wood gives this mature expression, vintage gold in appearance, an outstanding depth, complexity and balance of flavour. It starts with freshly squeezed lemons and ripe blood oranges, creamy vanilla, ground spice and new leather on the nose, with lime honey, vanilla and chocolate to taste. 

anCnoc brand manager Stephanie Allison commented: “Like all anCnoc bottlings, fans will be able to detect the unmistakable Knockdhu style in every drop of this spirit, but in particular it’s the complex depth of flavour of the 2001 that we’re really proud of. We’re sure it will be a hit with even the most discerning whisky drinker.”

Staying true to the distinctive anCnoc style, the 2001 Vintage packaging mirrors the minimalist design of anCnoc’s core range and features the contemporary yet traditional illustration of the Knockdhu Distillery in ice blue foil.

The 2001 Vintage is available now from independent and specialist retailers at £55 RRP.

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

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

International Beverage brands include:

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

BENROMACH DISTILLERY UNVEILS NEW LIMITED EDITION WOOD FINISH RELEASE 

The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd today unveils the latest expression to join their portfolio of Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Benromach Sassicaia Wood Finish.

The latest limited edition from the Forres based distillery offers whisky lovers a unique flavour profile, as a result of a final finishing period in Sassicaia wine casks from the renowned Bolgheri wine region.

Distilled in 2007 and initially matured in first fill bourbon barrels, Benromach Sassicaia Wood Finish (45% ABV) is a deep ruby red in colour, with notes of ripe berries, milk chocolate drops, and hints of ginger and cinnamon, complemented by a subtle sense of smoke.

The new release follows previous special edition Wood Finishes Benromach Hermitage 2005, Benromach Sassicaia 2006 and Château Cissac 2006.

Benromach Distillery Manager Keith Cruickshank said: “Here at Benromach we have an esteemed portfolio of single malt whisky. Our Wood Finish expressions allow us the opportunity to provide our customers with a special malt which is full of character, thanks to the final maturation period in casks from distinguished wine regions.

“The final finishing period in Sassicaia wine casks allows for an exceptional flavour profile to develop, full of summer fruits and soft spice.

“Fans of our Benromach 10 Years Old and 15 Years Old, which display the classic character of pre-1960’s Speyside single malt, will enjoy the chance to experience our whisky in a different way.”

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was revived when leading whisky specialists Gordon & MacPhail purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period to create a Speyside single malt whisky in a classic pre 1960s style.

Benromach Sassicaia Wood Finish will be available to purchase from specialist whisky retailers at an RRP of £40.25 in the UK, with only 3,500 bottles released for sale worldwide. Prices may vary in overseas markets due to local taxes and duty.

For further information on Benromach, and to find out more about Benromach Wood Finishes, please visit www.benromach.com.                                                                   

Notes

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when leading whisky specialists Gordon & MacPhail purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, Gordon & MacPhail decided to create a classic Speyside single malt – a style that draws its influence from Speyside whiskies pre-1960s.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A four-star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world famous malt whisky trail.