BALLANTINE’S AND ALBUM COVER ARTIST LEIF PODHAJSKY COLLABORATE FOR CHRISTMAS 2015
‘Artist Series’ range celebrates Ballantine’s heritage through Leif’s distinctive style

Ballantine’s, the No.1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the world’s No.2, has unveiled a unique range of three limited edition gift packs exclusively designed for the brand by renowned artist Leif Podhajsky ahead of Christmas 2015. The striking new packs are the first launch in the ‘Artist Series’, an initiative that will see Ballantine’s collaborate with a different creative talent every year.

Leif Podhajsky has created some of the most distinctive and beautiful album artwork of the last decade and music fans will instantly recognise his sonically-inspired landscapes inspired by the natural world. Staying true to his creative origins, the collaboration with Ballantine’s as part of the Artist Series has allowed Podhajsky to take inspiration from the award-winning Scotch whisky as well as the stunning, natural landscapes of Scotland, resulting in three beautiful limited edition designs.

Each distinctive gift pack design references the Ballantine’s story in separate ways. The Ballantine’s Finest Tin captures the movement of the liquid, inspired by the complexity, depth and gold colour of this renowned whisky blend. The Ballantine’s Neoprene Finest Sleeve takes inspiration from two of the most vital and natural elements involved in the whisky production process: fire and water. The Ballantine’s 12 Year Old Tin is an abstract interpretation of Scotland’s unique scenery, capturing the light of the sky, the rugged nature of Scotland’s Highlands region and the country’s flowing streams.

Leif Podhajsky said of the collaboration: “Before starting on the designs for Ballantine’s I spent time in Scotland exploring the wild, natural landscapes and understanding the whisky-making process. Immersing myself in the subject’s culture is how I begin when designing album cover artwork. From this point, images start to form organically. The Ballantine’s ‘Artist Series’ partnership was an extremely rewarding project to work on, giving me complete creative freedom and allowing me to stay true to my own artistic style.”

Peter Moore, Global Brand Director for Ballantine’s, added: “At Ballantine’s we are passionate about supporting artists that share the ethos of staying true to themselves. It has been a great pleasure to work with an artist as creative, distinctive and as innovative as Leif on our inaugural partnership for the Artist Series.

Providing excellent on-shelf standout thanks to his eye-catching designs, the limited editions present a modern take on our celebrated Ballantine’s whisky, so we are certain they will be a must have for whisky and art connoisseurs alike.”
The Ballantine’s Artist Series Limited Edition Gift Packs will be available globally from the end of October at the same price as Ballantine’s Finest and Ballantine’s 12 Year Old. A registration list is now open and accepting enquiries, please visit http://www.ballantines.com/en#campaigns/artist-series-leif-podhajsky for more information and to register your interest.

About Leif Podhajsky
Leif is an artist and Creative Director. His work explores themes of connectedness and the relevance of nature. By utilising these subjects he attempts to inspire the viewer into a realignment with themselves and their surroundings. His work has been exhibited in Paris, London, Berlin, The Netherlands and his native Australia. For more information visit www.leifpodhajsky.com

About Ballantine’s
Ballantine’s is the No.1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the No.2 Scotch whisky in the world with the range selling over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 130 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for its outstanding quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, continuing the brand’s tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827. In 2013, Ballantine’s continued its innovative approach by launching Ballantine’s Brasil, a spirit drink made from selectively cask steeping Scotch whisky with Brazilian lime peel.
www.ballantines.com @Ballantines

About Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s co-leader 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 world’s No.1 single malt whisky; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasbrothers.com @ChivasNewsRoom

About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. 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 80 “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

HIGHLY DESIRABLE GLENFIDDICH 50-YEAR-OLD LEADS BONHAMS WHISKY SALE IN EDINBURGH

A bottle of Glenfiddich 50-year-old is the star lot in Bonhams next Whisky sale in Edinburgh on October 7th. It is estimated at £12,000-15,000.

Bottled in 1991, it has a special place in the history of the Grant family, distillers of Glenfiddich, which founded the company in the 1880s. It comes from a batch of nine casks laid down in the 1930s – one for each of the William Grant’s nine children who helped him build the Glenfiddich Distillery.  Once the whisky had been blended, it was returned to the cask for a year before being bottled in a limited edition of 500 of which this is number 184.  Bonhams whisky specialist, Martin Green, said: “This is one of the most desirable Glenfiddichs – or, indeed of any Scotch whisky –  and is keenly sought after by collectors for its exceptional quality and rarity.”

Bowmore Premier over 42 years old, £5,500-6,000

Other outstanding lots include a Bowmore Premier over 42 years old (lot 40) that was distilled in 1965 and bottled in 2008. It is numbered 37 of an edition of only 57 and is estimated at £5,500-6,000. Also offered are two bottles of The MaCallan Select Reserve 52 year old (lot 61) distilled in 1946. Martin Green commented, “The MaCallans distilled immediately after the Second World War are regarded as some of the finest the firm has ever produced. This whisky was made with peated malt because coal was so scarce and expensive at that time and this accounts for its special nuanced flavour.”

As usual, the sale features a selection of early whiskies including the rare Dalmore 50 year old (lot 48) distilled in 1928 and estimated at £4,000-5,000; the very scarce Glen Grant 1929 (lot 119) estimated at £1,500-2,000; and an interesting curiosity in the form of an early 20^th-century bottle of Lawson’s Liqueur Whisky (lot 129), blended by Lawson’s of Dundee estimated at £400-600.

NOTES

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, Oxford 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.

Secure the ultimate investment with an exclusive membership to the Boann Cask Society and Boann Cask Collection.

Ireland’s newest craft distillery offers two unique opportunities to become part of the revival of Irish whiskey, the Irish whiskey Renaissance.  

Located in the heart of the Boyne Valley, Boann Whiskey Distillery has unveiled details of their exclusive Boann Cask Society and Boann Cask Collection, which will allow members to become part of history in the making of Ireland’s newest and most innovative craft distillery.

Opening in 2016, the Boann Distillery will create the finest whiskeys from specially designed nano-copper pot stills in its state of the art distillery in Drogheda.

The Cooney family, creators of the Boann Distillery, are excited about the distillery nearing completion and are keen for you to play a role in the renaissance of Irish Whiskey. The distillery will honour the timeless tradition of Ireland’s master distillers by creating the finest Irish Malt and Pot Still Whiskeys for discerning drinkers and collectors around the world. From milling to mashing, distilling, maturing and bottling, every drop of Boann malt and pot still whiskey is crafted within the quietude of the unique family distillery.

Boann Distillery Head Distiller, Ainé O’Hora, learnt her trade from the internationally renowned Master Distiller, John McDougall. He is the only man alive to have distilled all five types of Scotch whiskey and Irish whiskey. Their shared passion and wealth of knowledge means every detail of Boann Distillery has been meticulously considered.

Speaking about the Boann Cask Society, Ainé O’Hora, Head Distiller, at Boann Distillery said:

“Anyone who loves and appreciates the craft of whiskey will understand what a wonderful and unique opportunity the Boann Cask Society presents. It truly is the ultimate gift for whiskey lovers. We are very excited to welcome our 500 Cask Society Members and look forward to a long and rewarding journey with them. I’m so proud to be involved with such a beautiful product and I’m excited to share that experience with our members.”

Benefits of becoming a member of the Boann Cask Society

• As a Boann Cask Society Member, you will own one of the first five hundred whiskey casks, complete with certificate of authenticity and named cask.
• You can fill your own cask at the distillery and bottle it once it has matured.
• You can choose Irish Malt or Irish Pot Still Whiskey and decide which barrel to mature it in – Bourbon, Sherry, Port, with a choice of finishes. John or Ainé will be available to meet with you for guidance on the finishes.
• You can enjoy personal tastings of your whiskey cask with our Head Distiller. Alternatively, Boann Distillery will send you a taster every year, on your cask’s birthday.
• You will receive an exclusive Boann Cask Society loyalty card, which offers a 10% discount on all purchases at the distillery plus priority booking of events.
• You will be rewarded with a limited edition Boann Distillery Tasting Book to record your whiskey adventure.
• You will receive a special invitation to the Boann Cask Society Party, held once a year.
• You will have your cask stored safely for you, for a minimum of three years in the Boann Cellar.
• You will experience a once in a liftetime hands on experience through the distilling, filling, maturation, ageing, blending, bottling, appreciation and enjoyment of the wonderful world of whiskey.

Boann Cask prices start at €5,800 + Excise Duty + VAT. This is a lifestyle investment for your generation and the next. 

Benefits of becoming a member of the Boann Cask Collection

• As a Boann Cask Collection Member you will own exclusive bottlings from our distillers choice casks, hand picked as they mature in our cellar and selected by our Master Distiller, as the best expressions of our signature style.

• This offer is a 10 bottle, 10 year plan in which you will receive a bottle of the maturing malt whiskey from one year spirit, two year spirit, three year old whiskey, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine and ten year old whiskey, building a unique and covetable vertical collection of our special whiskeys, all with a unique limited edition label. 

The Boann Cask Collection price is €650 for 10 bottles over 10 years. 

For further details about becoming a member of the Boann Cask Society or Boann Cask Collection, go to www.boanndistillery.ie or email caskoffer@boanndistillery.ie

CELEBRATING 200 YEARS WITH A RARE

LAPHROAIG® 32 YEAR OLD

Laphroaig^® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky continues to celebrate its bicentenary with the release of the Laphroaig 32 Year Old.  The very special bottling, distributed by Maxxium UK, has been aged for over three decades in a single cask type.

Matured exclusively in a first-fill ex-Oloroso cask, the Laphroaig 32 Year Old is a whisky that has picked up all the flavours so typical of spirit laid down in ex-Sherry casks – the dark Christmas fruits, the nuts and spice, and at the same time possesses the extraordinary delicate balance common to old, excellent whiskies. It is an extremely rare and accomplished whisky.

On the nose the aroma of caramelised brown sugar is predominant, with notes of dark, bitter chocolate and nutmeg leading the palate, followed by a dry and lingering sherried oak finish.

Laphroaig 32 Year Old, an intensely rich single, malt will be available in October 2015 in selected specialist whisky retailers with a RRP of £750.00.

NOTES

www.laphroaig.com  

Tasting Notes for Laphroaig 32 Year Old:

• Colour – Deep Mahogany
• Nose – Reminiscent of a Christmas fruit cake, the rich, sherry sweetness and the aroma of caramelised brown sugar is predominant. A drop of water reveals notes of cinnamon spiced red apples, with just a hint of bitter dark chocolate.
• Body – Intense and rich.
• Taste – The dark, bitter chocolate follows through to the palate, with nutmeg and an intense spicy oakiness. Adding a touch of water allows sweeter, sherry flavours to come through, together with just a hint of salt tang and subtle peat smoke.
• Finish – Dry, long and lingering, sherried oak finish.

Editors Notes:

• Laphroaig is the No.1 selling Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky globally
• Unmistakably peat-smoke flavours are delivered by burning local Islay peat, containing unique traces of seaweed and heather.
• One of only a few distilleries that still uses traditional malting floors and dries and infuses its own malt with the thick blue smoke from old peat-fired kilns.
• The Friends of Laphroaig programme keeps fans of the brand up to date with special offers and news from distillery manager, John Campbell. On signing up, members are allocated their own square foot of land on Islay, and their names are added to the members’ book in the friends lounge at the distillery. Members who visit the distillery are invited to collect their ‘rent’ – a dram of Laphroaig. The community comprises more than 669,000 like-minded Scotch fans from more than 190 countries.

About Beam Suntory Inc.:

As the world’s third largest premium spirits company, Beam Suntory is Crafting the Spirits that Stir the World.  Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company’s brands, including the flagship Jim Beam bourbon and Yamazaki Japanese whisky, as well as world renowned premium brands including Maker’s Mark and Knob Creek bourbons, Hakushu and Hibiki Japanese whiskies, Teacher’s,  Laphroaig, and Bowmore Scotch whiskies, Canadian Club whisky, Courvoisier cognac, Sauza tequila, Pinnacle vodka, and Midori liqueur.  The company generates annual worldwide sales exceeding $4 billion excluding excise taxes.

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 entrepreneurial culture.  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 http://www.beamsuntory.com/ and www.drinksmart.com.

IRISH DISTILLERS SET TO CONTINUE CATEGORY 

LEADERSHIP WITH NEW MICRODISTILLERY

Irish Distillers, the largest whiskey producer in Ireland and home to the iconic brands of Irish whiskey – Jameson, Powers, PADDY, Redbreast, Green Spot and Midleton Very Rare, has unveiled a new Microdistillery in Midleton, Co. Cork. The Microdistillery is a key innovation hub that will support the resurgence of Irish Whiskey through experimentation with distillations of new and old styles of Irish whiskey.

The opening of the new facility marks the return to distilling in the Old Midleton buildings for the first time since 1975. An innovative array of whiskeys, featuring a mix of cereals, will be distilled using a manual operation during the first year, while in phase two a microbrewery will be introduced that will enable the Microdistillery to craft whiskeys using a wider range of cereals and yeast strains.

The first Distiller of the Microdistillery at Midleton has been announced as Karen Cotter – one of eight alumni of the Jameson Graduate Distiller Programme and the only female distiller in Ireland. Karen joined Irish Distillers in 2012 and has been mentored by Midleton Master Distiller, Brian Nation – an ongoing relationship that will ensure that Karen has the support she needs to carry on the proud tradition of distilling in Midleton.

Anna Malmhake, Chairman and CEO of Irish Distillers, commented: “As Jameson continues to underpin the success of the Irish whiskey category, we are looking at new ways of building on our tradition while also forging the future of Irish whiskey. We are delighted with the opening of the Midleton Microdistillery which, when fully operational, will produce 400 casks of Irish whiskey per annum, from brewing through to maturation. These will be innovative, small batch expressions that will play a key role in the development of the category.

“Our Archivist recently uncovered a notebook personally used by John Jameson II in 1826 which he used to take note of special recipes and ingredient mixes used by the original Jameson distillers. The Microdistillery will enable us to bring these old Irish whiskeys back to life in the modern era, as well as experiment and innovate with new ingredients mixes.

“In addition, it will be a key feature of the Jameson Experience Midleton. We currently welcome over 410,000 tourists per year to the Old Jameson Distillery in Dublin and the Jameson Experience Midleton. As Irish whiskey tourism continues its rapid expansion, it is essential that we develop our tourist offering so they get an authentic, Irish experience.”

Karen Cotter, Distiller at the Midleton Microdistillery, added: “I am honoured to take up my new role as Distiller at the Midleton Microdistillery – my own distillery! I had my first taste of Midleton during a six-month work placement and found the story of what we do in Midleton and why we do it fascinating. I wanted to be a part of an industry that respects the traditions of old while using environmentally sustainable ways to ensure quality whiskey production for the future.”

“Craft and innovation are at the core of everything we do and Irish Distillers have had the foresight to invest in an experimentation hub that will enable us to study cereal mixes, resurrect old Irish whiskey recipes and be a centre of excellence for training up-and-coming Midleton distillers. For me, the Microdistillery presents a fantastic opportunity to be at the cutting edge of innovation in Irish Whiskey and, with a steady hand guiding me, the future really is bright for us. Who knows – maybe we will find the next Jameson here!”  

Notes  

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 super 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 is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. 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 80 “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

Vote For Us….

The Famous Grouse Experience are thrilled to be shortlisted in this year’s Whisky Magazine “Icons of Whisky” Scotland Awards. Following on from our success in last year’s awards we have been nominated in 2 categories, Visitor Attraction of the Year and Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year.

Glenturret Distillery have also been nominated for Distillery of the Year and Distillery Manager of the Year.

The voting is open to the public and closes on Friday 9th October. Click here to register your vote.

CRAFT COLLABORATION JAMESON ‘CASKMATES’ GOES GLOBAL

Watch the Jameson Caskmates film here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSbUErfAMu0 

Jameson has announced the global release of Jameson Caskmates, following a successful limited run in Ireland last year. Created by the Midleton Distillery in collaboration with micro-brewer, Franciscan Well Brewery in Cork, Jameson Caskmates offers a new taste experience that will satisfy the appetite of whiskey enthusiasts, Jameson drinkers and craft beer fans.

The Jameson Caskmates story began back in 2013, when Jameson Master Distiller, Brian Nation and Master of Whiskey Science, Dave Quinn, first met Franciscan Well Founder and Head Brewer, Shane Long, in a Cork bar. The Jameson Masters agreed to loan some Jameson casks to the brewery to discover their influence on Irish stout and when the stout-seasoned barrels were returned to the Midleton Distillery, Dave Quinn re-filled them with Jameson Irish whiskey. Over time, the maturation resulted in a new taste sensation: Jameson Caskmates.

The product of curiosity, collaboration and innovation, Jameson Caskmates retains the triple-distilled smoothness of Jameson Original, while adopting additional notes of coffee, cocoa, butterscotch and gentle hints of hops.

The release is set to tap into the existing consumer appetite for craft beer and whiskey, as it fuses the two categories and showcases exceptional versatility; the result can be served neat, on the rocks, as a beer pairing and in beer cocktails. The tag line behind the creative, ‘Triple distilled, once stouted’, reinforces the union of whiskey and beer while injecting the wit and personality of the Jameson brand to further enhance its appeal to millennial consumers.

Dave Quinn, Master of Whiskey Science at the Midleton Distillery, says: “When the stout-seasoned Jameson barrels arrived back at Midleton from Franciscan Well, curiosity got the better of us and we experimented by maturing our Jameson Irish whiskey in the casks. We found that after around six months, the perfect balance of flavor was achieved and we couldn’t be happier with the results; Jameson Caskmates retains all the smoothness of triple-distilled Jameson with added cocoa, coffee and butterscotch notes from the stout barrels. We are thrilled that the rest of the world is getting the chance to enjoy this Irish gem!”

Brendan Buckley, Global Innovation Director at Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, added: “Jameson and stout are no strangers behind the bar, but for the first time ever they have come together to create our latest innovation, Jameson Caskmates. The story goes right to our heart in Cork, where our Midleton Distillery and the Franciscan Well Brewery are located, and represents what we are most passionate about: Irish craftsmanship, collaboration and innovation. With Jameson Caskmates, we hope to surprise and delight existing Jameson drinkers by providing them with an authentic, new whiskey experience, as well as to recruit craft beer fans globally to the Irish whiskey category.”

Bottled at 40% ABV, Jameson Caskmates is available from September 2015 in eight markets including the USA, South Africa and Ireland, at the RRP of €38.99, $29.99 or local equivalent, supported by global ATL and BTL campaigns, POS and merchandising support tools. 

Notes 

Jameson Caskmates Tasting Notes, by Master Distiller Brian Nation

Nose: The initial aroma of freshly mown hay is complemented by a crisp orchard fruit character, green apples and pears along with a twist of lime zest. Mild pot still spices appear, deepening from green tea to hazelnut and milk chocolate. The lingering hop influence combines effortlessly with toasted oak and barley grains to form a solid base.

Taste: As expected, there is the initial sweet mouth coating typical of the Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey inclusion. Then the effect of the beer cask finish becomes apparent with the subtle touch of hops and cocoa beans. Some marzipan and charred oak add to the complexity.

Finish: Long and sweet with milk chocolate and butterscotch.

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 super 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 is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. 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 80 “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.

http://www.pernod-ricard.com/

New service launched

yourwhiskycask.co.uk is offering Scotch whisky – in casks

Telgte, Germany, 22nd September 2015. From now on aficionados and friends of Scotch Single Malt have the opportunity to receive offers for whisky casks by a new service named yourwhiskycask. The company is offering their casks worldwide to private persons, whisky clubs or businesses. Becoming the owner of a cask is simple: if someone is interested in receiving our offers, he/she can simply register free of charge on our website. From then on interested parties will receive our latest newsletter with all casks on offer via email.

The costs for a cask depend on its volume, cask type, alcohol content, age and exclusivity. Casks with New Make have also become a popular investment over the last few years. These casks are currently available from £1200 to £2000. The prices for old and rare casks have soared drastically and it looks as if there is no limit in sight. To ensure fresh supply of good quality casks, the team from yourwhiskycask.co.uk has a long established network of brokers and partners in Scotland. We are able offer casks through these channels or from our own stock.

When receiving an email with the casks on offer, for older whiskies peoplesometimes have the chance to order a sample at their expense. Especially with our offers for New Make or younger whisky we specifically focus on exceptional 1st-fill casks of good quality, like rum, wine, sherry, port or Madeira.

When buying a cask from yourwhiskycask.co.uk buyers will get all services from one supplier: storage, inspection, bottling and if desired a finish in an especially selected cask. It is imperative that an extraction of the cask from a bonded warehouse is only possible when bottling the Scotch whisky. It is illegal to export full casks.

Regardless of the country of residence, everybody can become the owner of a cask of whisky. The owners of a cask are of course entitled to receive samples of their Scotch whisky, so they can get their own impression of the maturation process.

The buyer of one of our casks will get access to our online administration database. They will find there all the necessary and current data of their cask. For further information, please visit http://www.yourwhiskycask.co.uk.

Provider of all services offered by yourwhiskycask.co.uk is Five Lions GmbH located in Telgte (Germany). All processes will be dealt with in our office in Scotland and contacts on site.

Contact

Alexander Springensguth

email // presse@five-lions.de

phone // 0049 2504 708967-7

fax // 0049 2504 708967-9

Publisher

Five Lions GmbH

Mersch 10

48291 Telgte

Germany

email // info@five-lions.de

phone // 0049 2504 708967-0

fax // 0049 2504 708967-9

www.five-lions.de

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY RELEASES

13 YEAR-OLD SOUR MASH BOURBON EXPERIMENT 

Two Entry Proofs for this Experiment make up the last

Experimental Collection Release for 2015  

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Sept. 22, 2015) Buffalo Trace Distillery has returned to its roots with the latest release in their long-running experimental whiskey program, a bourbon made using an old-fashioned process of souring the mash.  Distilled in May of 2002, this Old Fashioned Sour Mash experiment used Buffalo Trace’s proprietary mash.  The bourbon was cooked and cooled to standard; however, the similarities stop there. The mash was allowed “to sour” before yeast was added to start the fermentation process, a method long abandoned due to its more laborious process.

This sour mash method differs from the more common process used today by nearly all bourbon manufacturers. The routine method calls for cooking and cooling the mash, and then immediately adding yeast and a small amount of previously distilled mash (or “setback”) as it cools to sour the mash.   The traditional old-fashioned sour mash process fell out of favor many years ago, and it was not until a gathering of distillery “old timers” that Buffalo Trace was inspired to revive it.

After the sour mash was distilled, it was entered into barrels at two different entry proofs, 105 and 125. Aged for 13 years on the seventh floor of Warehouse I, the two different entry proofs took on unique characteristics. The 105 entry proof delivers a light body, with notes of vanilla and fruit, and a dry, nice finish, while the 125 entry proof offers a medium flavored body, with spicy flavors mingled with caramel, and a balanced pleasing finish.

These barrels are part of more than 4,000 experimental barrels of whiskey aging in the warehouses of Buffalo Trace Distillery. Each of them has unique characteristics that differentiate them in distinct ways. Some examples of experiments include unique mash bills, types of wood, and different barrel toasts. In order to further increase the scope, flexibility, and range of the experimental program, an entire micro distillery, named The Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. “OFC” Micro Distillery, complete with cookers, fermenting tanks, and a state-of-the-art micro still has been constructed within Buffalo Trace Distillery. Buffalo Trace has increased its commitment to experimentation with the recent addition of its Warehouse X. Although small in size, Warehouse X is designed to explore the extent of environmental influences on the flavor profiles of whiskey.

The Experimental Collection is packaged in 375ml bottles, with two bottles from each entry proof in a case. Both entry proofs were bottled at 90 proof.  Each label includes all the pertinent information unique to that barrel of whiskey. These whiskeys retail for approximately $46.35 each and will be available in late September, 2015. Experimental Collection releases are generally quite small and have limited availability. For more information on the Experimental Collection or the other products of Buffalo Trace Distillery, please contact Elizabeth Hurst at ehurst@buffalotrace.com.

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 1773 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 being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 17 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named “Brand Innovator of the Year” by Whisky Magazine at its Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015.  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 300 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Taking the Arran Waters

First Release in History-Inspired Smugglers’ Series from the Isle of Arran Distillery

As the award-winning Isle of Arran Distillery approaches its 21^st year, it is celebrating the renowned whisky-making heritage of its island home with the first release in its Smugglers’ Series.

The Smugglers Series honours the tradition of the illicit whisky trade that operated from Arran and up the Clyde to Glasgow. Each new release will be ‘smuggled’ in unique packaging reminiscent of the hiding places used in the 18^th and 19^th centuries. Smugglers’ Series Vol. 1 ‘The Illicit Stills’ features hidden packaging that mimics a beautiful hardbound book, complete with a cut-out compartment that conceals the bottle.

The whisky itself pays homage to the distillery’s forebears with an Arran dram of a robust body and heavier peat influence, redolent of the whisky produced on the island in days gone by. Perfectly balanced by the sweetness of older Bourbon barrels and the rich and fruity influence of Port Pipes, the historic malt is a fresh, full bodied and complex dram evocative of this distillery’s independent character.

Euan Mitchell, managing direct of Isle of Arran Distillery said: “We’re justifiably proud of the whisky-making heritage of the island. Visitors have long been fascinated in the illicit industry that ran between Arran and Glasgow in centuries past.

“With the distillery turning 21, it felt like the perfect time to commemorate that exciting time in Scotch whisky’s heritage with a series that pays homage to its ancestors whilst looking forward to the distillery’s future.”

Non-chill filtered and with no artificial colouring, this special edition has a rusty colour of iron barrel chime rings. A subtle nose of peat hints at a robust character. A palate of juicy plums gives way to white grapes and a blast of spicy ginger.

Each dram finishes with a lasting flavour of dried apricots fading into salty, maritime notes – evoking the dying embers of smugglers’ signal fires on windswept beaches.

An Arran dram of true unbridled character, reminiscent of the trade which gave rise to the illustrious reputation of ‘the Arran water’. Bottled at 56.4.% ABV, ‘The Illicit Stills’ is a Limited Edition with only 8,700 bottles released worldwide.

UK RSP £84.99

Notes:

For more information visit http://www.arranwhisky.com/

* Accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for: Best New Exporter (2004), Queen’s Award for International Trade (2005), Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007.)

Product awards include: Best Whisky Liqueur (2007), ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 12 Years & Under’ for The Arran Malt Amarone Cask Finish (2008) ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for The Arran Malt Sherry Single Cask 1998 (2010) and ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for the Icons of Arran Peacock (2011.) ‘Double Gold Award’ for Arran’s 14 Year Old Single Malt and ‘Gold Award’ for Arran’s 10 Year Old Single Malt at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2012). Double Gold in FiftyBest.com awards (2012). Double Gold Medal for the 12 year-old Cask Strength in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2013). Double Gold for both the 10 year-old and 12 year-old Cask Strength at the China Wine & Spirits Best Value Awards 2014.