BENRIACH RELEASES NEWEST BATCH OF ITS SINGLE CASK BOTTLINGS

BenRiach has today (September 2, 2015) released Batch 12 of its renowned single cask bottlings.

This batch comprises nine remarkable casks from its Elgin distillery that were bottled in June this year.

Ranging from 38 to 14 years old, the magnificent nine perfectly capture the unique, award-winning BenRiach character.

The variety of expressions is utterly amazing. Sublime whiskies matured in the traditional, classic Speyside style are accompanied by expressions finished in exciting wood types such as Tawny Port, Pedro Ximenez sherry and Oloroso sherry casks as well as several peated whiskies.

Individually hand-numbered, non chill-filtered and bottled at natural colour, each single cask is truly a one-off. The new BenRiach packaging reflects the supreme quality of these single casks.

All nine casks have been hand-selected by BenRiach’s Managing Director and Master Distiller Billy Walker who described them as “extraordinarily fine” and added:

“Every single cask bottling is an exclusive limited release. I have selected these nine casks as I believe they are especially noteworthy – highly individual, rounded, full of personality and ranging in fascinating characteristics. ”

Amongst them are some real highlights. The 38 years old whisky is from cask number 541, an excellent bourbon barrel. This peated gem suggests baked apples spiced with vanilla and cinnamon combined with a gentle, sweet peat reek to create a long barley sugar finish.

At the other end of the scale, the youngest, a 14 years old from cask number 69116, is a classic Speyside malt, balancing oak spices, green pears and ripe gooseberries combined with a crisp citrus twist and long barley grist finish.

And unusually for BenRiach, one expression – the 1998 cask number 6394 – has been triple-distilled and finished in a Pedro Ximenez Sherry Puncheon, and the taste is sensational – white pepper and crisp citrus notes soften to plum juice followed by apple sponge with a dusting of fresh ground barley.

Other expressions in the range boast the taste of “herbal bog myrtle”, “papaya and ripe melon”, “juicy cranberries submerged with crisp citrus” and “chocolate-coated rum raisins and roasted coffee beans”.

The cask details are as follows:

1976 cask # 541 / 38 years old / Bourbon Barrel / Peated / 48.8% vol. 

1979 cask # 517 / 35 years old / Bourbon Barrel / Peated / 46.9% vol.

1985 cask # 10318 / 29 years old / Bourbon Barrel / Peated / 49.0%vol. 

1987 cask # 3825 / 27 years old / Tawny Port Hogshead / Tawny Port Finish / 52.9% vol.

1990 cask # 4936 / 25 years old / Bourbon Barrel / Classic Speyside / 50.4% vol.

1995 cask # 74743 / 20 years old / Bourbon Barrel / Classic Speyside / 58.9% vol.

1998 cask # 6394 / 17 years old / Pedro Ximenez Sherry Puncheon / Triple Distilled / Pedro Ximenez Sherry Finish / 57.5% vol.

1999 cask # 8687 / 15 years old / Oloroso Sherry Puncheon / Oloroso Sherry Finish / 56.1% vol.

2000 cask # 69116 / 14 years old / Bourbon Barrel / Classic Speyside / 56.3% vol.

All nine casks will soon be available at retailers worldwide.

Do you want to know whisky? 

New online companion is the perfect beginners guide to world of whisky  

Whisky has entered the digital age with the launch of a new interactive gift experience which teaches whisky drinkers everything they need to know about Scotland’s amber nectar.

Designed and created in Edinburgh, and endorsed by whisky guru and Master of the Quaich Charles MacLean, I want to know whisky is an inspiring online journey through the culture, crafting, tasting and serving of Scotland’s national drink.

I want to know whisky has been named ‘Whisky Gift of the Year 2015’ by The Whisky Shop and Whiskeria magazine.

Priced at £24.95 and developed by hospitality group Montpeliers (Edinburgh) Ltd and Flow Hospitality Training, I want to know whisky is the perfect stocking filler for whisky fans this Christmas or a pre-festive season treat.

Uncover the fascinating history of whisky from its origins in the sixth century to contemporary cocktail recipes, take a virtual tour of a distillery, discover different styles of Scotch, explore the six whisky producing regions and learn how to taste and appreciate whisky like a professional.

Aspiring whisky aficionados need look no further for the perfect beginners guide to whisky.

Immersing yourself in the world of whisky, the entire interactive journey takes approximately two and a half hours and will test user’s knowledge with interesting questions and a fun final exam at the end.

Upon successful completion of the exam whisky fans will be able to download a personalised certificate from Charles MacLean.

Charles Maclean said: “A splendid introduction to whisky, very informative and useful but great fun too. Whether a whisky fan wishing to test their knowledge or a complete beginner, there’s something for everyone”

“I want to know whisky is the perfect companion for Scotch whisky enthusiasts.”

David Wither, Managing Director at Flow Hospitality Training, said: “The Scotch whisky industry has played a key role in Scotland for centuries and produces whisky admired around the world for its remarkable character and quality.   Inspired by our work within the hospitality and technology industries we hope engage, entertain and enrich the knowledge of whisky enthusiasts everywhere.

“I want to know whisky has been developed by our team here in Edinburgh and we are delighted to have the endorsement of Charles Maclean, his knowledge and passion for this wonderful drink has helped shape our journey of discovery which we look forward to sharing with you”

For more information or to order I want to know whisky visit: http://www.iwanttoknowwhisky.co.uk/.

Macleod’s Scotch Whisky Trail Pack set for relaunch at TFWA Cannes

Ian Macleod Distillers is set to relaunch their popular Macleod’s Scotch Whisky Trail pack at this year’s Cannes Tax Free World Association (TFWA).

The Macleod’s Scotch Whisky Trail pack has been renamed The Macleod’s Six to emphasise the 6 whiskies contained in the redesigned beautifully packaged double sided, burgundy and gold gift box.

Commenting on the new design, Andy Lane, Travel Retail Director for Ian Macleod Distillers, said: “Our newly designed Macleod’s Six pack represents not only the premium quality of the product but also the journey of Clansman Ian Macleod as he travelled the length and breadth of Scotland, seeking out the finest malts and grain whiskies from each region.”

The contents of the pack reflects Scotland’s celebrated whisky regions and famed trails, explaining the intricacies that give whiskies their distinct and flavoursome characteristics. This exclusive tasting gift pack includes 5cl bottles from around the whisky producing regions including Speyside, Highland, Islay and Island single malts with a Lowland Single Grain Malt Whisky and Isle of Skye 8yo Blended Scotch Whisky.

The newly designed pack makes for a perfect gift to help celebrate any special occasion and encourage consumers to learn about and try a variety of Scotch whiskies.

Taking place between the 19- 23 October, TFWA is widely regarded as the world’s biggest duty free and travel retail association providing the industry with high-quality exhibitions, acclaimed conferences and workshops, and in-depth market research.

Ian Macleod Distillers is one of Scotland’s leading independent family owned distillers, blenders and bottlers.

The gift pack will be available from April 2016 and will retail at £26.00/€35.90/USD$39.95. The Macleod’s Scotch Whisky Trail pack can be found at stand number L7 Red Village at TFWA Cannes.

For more information, please visit www.ianmacleod.com.

• Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd was established on 26 October 1933.
• Ian Macleod Distillers currently produce and sell over 15 million bottles of spirit per year.

GROUND BREAKS AT THE GLENLIVET DISTILLERY AS TOP SCOTCH CELEBRATES A STELLAR YEAR WITH DOUBLE DIGIT GROWTH

Work begins on expansion of The Glenlivet distillery, reinforcing the recent success and bright future for the world’s largest single malt Scotch whisky

Chivas Brothers has forged ahead with its investment into enhancing the production facilities of The Glenlivet distillery to ensure that current and future demand for ‘the single malt that started it all’ continues to be met. Today, work officially began on the site, which will significantly increase capacity.

The news follows a strong set of financial results for the year ending in June 2015 for Chivas Brothers, announced last week, with the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard recording overall growth in net sales of +3%.

The Glenlivet recorded the standout achievement for Chivas Brothers with +11% net sales growth, a result of the brand’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship through launches such as Founder’s Reserve, the extension of the Master Distiller’s Reserve range and The Winchester Collection. The Glenlivet has successfully driven consumer recruitment and attracted Scotch connoisseurs to the brand, which has made it the largest contributor to the growth of the single malt category in the past five years (IWSR 2014).

Today’s announcement reinforces the brand’s recent unrivalled global success selling over 1 million cases1 to become the world’s No.1 single malt Scotch whisky brand. The Glenlivet is also spearheading growth for the entire Pernod Ricard Single Malt Scotch whisky portfolio, with the group’s range becoming the Global No. 1. 2

 Across other brands in the Chivas Brothers portfolio there were additional strong performances such as Ballantine’s Finest growing in an otherwise declining category.

The brand, No. 2 Scotch whisky worldwide, sold over six million cases in the year ending in June 2015 following an increase of +2% in net sales driven by Ballantine’s Finest. Ballantine’s prestige portfolio has retained its loyal consumer base through the launch of Ballantine’s Golf Club while millennial whisky drinkers have been recruited to Ballantine’s Finest through successful marketing campaigns including the brand’s partnership with Boiler Room.

Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky, maintained its position despite a slight decline in global sales of Scotch whisky in 20143, demonstrating the continued appeal of this iconic brand. The past twelve months saw the launch of The Venture and the introduction of two new luxury whiskies, Chivas Extra and Chivas Regal The Icon, into the award-winning portfolio.

Chivas Brothers continues to lead in the standard segment with Passport Scotch, which grew +20% in net sales to reach a record 1.7m cases in the year ending in June 2015. Passport has strong appeal among millennial consumers in emerging markets including Brazil, Angola and Mexico, which has helped to earn its position as the fastest growing of all spirits brands that sell more than 200,000 cases per year4.

Beefeater, the world’s most awarded gin, continued to capitalise on the global gin renaissance, growing by +3% in net sales in the year ending in June 2015. Led by strong growth of Beefeater London Dry, the brand has engaged with the on-trade community through the Beefeater MIXLDN Bartender Competition and has inspired consumers through activations including Beefeater London Sounds.

Laurent Lacassagne, Chairman & CEO of Chivas Brothers, commented: “Today’s first step towards an expansion at The Glenlivet distillery is an historic day for Chivas Brothers as we look to continue the brand’s phenomenal triumphs across the past five years to reinforce our position as the world’s No.1 single malt Scotch whisky.

“Success for The Glenlivet is not in isolation – we have reported growth of +3% in net sales for the Chivas Brothers range as a whole, supported by a strong performance across our wider single malt, premium and standard blended Scotch and English gin portfolios with Aberlour, Ballantine’s, Passport and Beefeater respectively. The overall performance of our comprehensive portfolio of Scotch whiskies in the context of the wider category, which declined slightly last year, has been robust and we are committed to investing into manufacturing facilities geared towards innovation to help us to capitalise on the current and long-term growth prospects of the category.”

NOTES

1 The Glenlivet sold 1,065k 9lc in the year ending December 2014, according to IWSR 2014
2 Source: IWSR 2014
3 Scotch Whisky Association (April 2015 – link)
4 Source: IWSR 2014
Chivas Brothers financial results for the year ending in June 2015 (net sales):
Chivas Brothers: +3%
Chivas Regal: 0%
Ballantine’s: +2%
Beefeater: +3%
The Glenlivet: +11%
Royal Salute: -8%
Passport: +20%

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 €7,945 million in 2013/14. 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 & Spirit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector and employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people, operating through a decentralized organization 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 the NYSE Euronext exchange (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is a member of the CAC 40 index.
www.pernod-ricard.com

THE DEVERON®: THE CALM FROM THE STORM

Glasgow, Scotland, 3rd September 2015 – John Dewar & Sons Ltd. has announced the release of The Deveron single malt which hails from MacDuff distillery, located on the northern edge of Aberdeenshire.

The new expressions of THE DEVERON® 10 year-old, THE DEVERON® 12 year-old and THE DEVERON® 18 year-old have never been released before now and will be available from October 2015.

Located where the river meets the sea, Macduff distillery sits near the mouth of the River Deveron, shortly before its cool waters join the restless surge of the North Sea. Sheltered from the worst of the seaboard storms and winter winds, this tranquil spot has seen the creation of The Deveron malt whisky for many a decade.

A comparatively modern distillery – its spirit first began to flow in 1960 – Macduff was brought into being mainly for the purpose of supplying malt whisky to the blending industry. It was commissioned by a consortium of four businessmen, who called themselves Glen Deveron Distillers Ltd.

Emanating from five small copper pot stills, and unusual horizontal condensers that gently coax extra character from the spirit, The Deveron is an approachable dram which has a tang of coastal air about it. The distillery is set up for a light, fruity spirit that’s replete with apple tones and nutty notes.

Stephen Marshall, Bacardi’s Global Marketing Manager – Single Malts remarks: “The final one. We’ve done it and it tastes great. People underestimate the quality of whisky that can be made at a comparatively modern distillery, this is really top notch stuff. Get yourself up to Macduff, or if you can’t then stick Local Hero on the telly and pour yourself a dram”.

The new portfolio consists of three age statements, each bottled at 40% ABV: The Deveron 10 Years Old (only available in France), The Deveron 12 Years Old and The Deveron 18 Years Old. Each expression has been launched in selected markets around the world including Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, Sweden, Taiwan, United States and United Kingdom.

http://www.lastgreatmalts.com/

Tasting Notes

The Deveron 10 Years Old, 40% ABV

Down by the shoreline where spindrift flies, in taverns hoachin’ with coastal folk,

Liquid rites share this tasty trove of toffee, crisp apples and creamy oak. 

The Deveron 12 Years Old, 40% ABV

When billows break and haar ghosts in, then haste ye home or some bit warm,

Unwind with toasted grain and apples, seaborne spice; calm from the storm. 

The Deveron 18 Years Old, 40% ABV

Made where the big river meets the endless brine, in any weather, drookit or clear,

Delve in fruity depths where nutty notes are stowed; a dram for blether and fireside cheer.

About THE DEVERON Single Malt Scotch Whisky

THE DEVERON hails from Macduff distillery, found beside the River Deveron just before it meets the North Sea. Sheltered from those restless waters and the worst winter winds, this tranquil spot offers calm from the storm; the perfect place to craft a mellow fireside malt. Distillation employs five small copper pot stills and unusual horizontal condensers which are arranged for a light and fruity spirit. The result is a rare coastal whisky which holds the tang of shoreline air alongside sturdy apple notes, dried fruits and nutty warmth.

The brand new portfolio comprises of three expressions of THE DEVERON single malt: the 10 Years Old, 12 Years Old and 18 Years Old. The single malt brand of THE DEVERON is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. http://www.thedeveron.com/

About John Dewar & Sons Ltd.

John Dewar & Sons Ltd. employs 300 people at seven locations throughout Scotland. The Company currently operates whisky distilleries in Aberfeldy, Macduff, Aultmore, Craigellachie and Nairn with ageing, blending, bottling and packaging facilities in Glasgow and additional maturation facilities in Poniel in Central Scotland.

The single malt brand of THE DEVERON® is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. John Dewar & Sons Ltd. is part of the Bacardi group of companies.

http://www.lastgreatmalts.com/

For more information on the new single malt expressions, the five distilleries, tasting notes, crafting, and heritage, please visit http://www.lastgreatmalts.com/ 

anCnoc unveils first ever creative collaboration with a fashion designer 

Following a series of teasers on social media and speculation from excited fans we are delighted to reveal that we are embarking on a rather exciting partnership with award-winning fashion designer Patrick Grant.  The Edinburgh-born designer is the creative director of bespoke tailors Norton and Sons of Savile Row, founder of Ready to Wear label E-Tautz & Sons, and perhaps best known by the public for his role as a judge on BBC2’s The Great British Sewing Bee.

Patrick’s wealth of creative experience will be harnessed as he works with anCnoc to craft a bespoke print which will draw inspiration from our single malt’s heritage, character, and indeed the time-honoured production methods used here at Knockdhu distillery.  The print will debut in February 2016 when we reveal an exceptionally Limited Edition single malt expression which incorporates the design on both the bottle and packaging, not to mention that a small number of exclusive fashion items including this unique print will also be produced.

In anticipation of next year’s launch Patrick has now started work on the print and is reaching out to you, our fans, to contribute to the final result.  What’s more anyone that emails us, tweets or posts inspiration for his design on Facebook will be placed in a prize draw to win one of 5 anCnoc goodies bags (worth over £100 each).  So what are you waiting for!

Competition:

1.  Follow anCnoc on Twitter (@anCnoc_whisky) or on Facebook (/ancnocsinglemalt)
2.  Using hashtag #ModernTradition tell us what you think sum’s up anCnoc – this can be an image, video or even just a few words.
3.  Make sure your entry is submitted before midnight on Thursday 10th September 2015, after this time entries will not be counted.

Don’t use social media? – you can still enter by sending your design inspiration (images, videos or text) to amoderntradition@ancnoc.com.

Good Luck!

Terms and conditions apply, click here to find out more.

Sazerac’s Legacy Canadian Whisky Recognized

As “Outstanding” at

2015 International Wine & Spirits Competition 

NEW ORLEANS, lA.  (Aug. 25, 2015) – One of Sazerac’s Canadian whiskies received top honors at the 2015 International Wine & Spirits Competition. Facing steep competition submitted from 90 different countries, Legacy Canadian Whisky prevailed, winning a “Silver Outstanding” medal.

“Silver Outstanding” medals are awarded based upon the highest scores within that respective category.

“We are very excited that our Legacy Canadian Whisky was deemed Outstanding among this year’s competition,” Kevin Richards, marketing director of whiskeys and specialty brands, said. “This is an honor we are very proud to receive.”

The International Wine and Spirit Competition was founded in 1969 and is the premier competition of its kind in the world. Its aim is to promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs.

All entries are first blind tasted in groups divided by variety, region and vintage as necessary, by professional expert judges (by glass, not bottle) and then the top products are sent for detailed (chemical and microbiological) analysis. This analysis is crucial as in some instances the results of this analysis may lead to marks being deducted or even outright rejection.

Learn more at http://www.iwsc.net/.

About The Sazerac Company

Sazerac is one of New Orleans’ oldest family owned, privately held companies and has operations in New Orleans, Louisiana; Frankfort, Bardstown, Louisville and Owensboro, Kentucky; Fredericksburg, Virginia; Carson, California; Baltimore, Maryland; Lewiston, Maine; Londonderry, New Hampshire; and Montreal, Canada.  For more information, please visit http://www.sazerac.com/.

Booker’s® Bourbon Roundtable Selects Fourth Batch In 2015 Limited-Edition Release Collection

Booker’s® Bourbon, one of the few bourbons available uncut and unfiltered1, announces the release of the fourth batch in its 2015 collection, Batch 2015-04, also referred to as the “Oven Buster Batch.” This latest expression was hand selected during an exclusive tasting by Fred Noe, 7th Generation Master Distiller, and the Booker’s® Bourbon Roundtable – a small collection of esteemed bourbon experts, enthusiasts and writers. The latest release of Booker’s® is a true testament to the full-bodied bourbon first created by the late Booker Noe, 6th Generation Master Distiller and Fred Noe’s father.

“I’ve always been fond of cooking with bourbon,” said Annis Wickham Noe, wife of Booker and mother of Fred. “Years ago, as I was preparing a pork roast, I mistakenly reached for a bottle of my husband’s namesake bourbon to pour over the roast. The oven sparked from the bourbon’s high proof and the door flew open – that’s how the Oven Buster nickname was born!”

“Oven Buster Batch” is the second batch this year that was selected by the Booker’s® Bourbon Roundtable, with the guidance of Noe. The Roundtable was also joined by special guest Fred Minnick, author of “Bourbon Curious: A Simple Tasting Guide for a Savvy Drinker,” who contributed his knowledge of whiskey to help the group choose a batch that properly honors Booker Noe’s whiskey preferences and pays homage to the bourbon’s full-body flavor profile.

The Roundtable panelists who helped select Batch 2015-04, “Oven Buster Batch,” included the following members:

• Chuck Cowdery, Blogger and Author of “Bourbon, Strange: Surprising Stories of American Whiskey”
• Geoff Kleinman, Founder and Managing Editor of DrinkSpirits.com
• John McCarthy, Spirits Writer and Senior Managing Editor of Men’s Health Magazine
• Jack Robertiello, Spirits Writer and Spirits Competition Judge
• Tony Sachs, Spirits Writer and Blogger for Huffington Post

Noe, the Roundtable Panelists and Minnick selected Booker’s® “Oven Buster Batch” with the following characteristics:

• Proof: 127
• Age: 6 years, 5 months and 20 days
• Nose: Vanilla with oak
• Finish: Long, smooth, pleasant finish
• Sipping Suggestions: With ice or cut with water

Uncut and unfiltered1 – like all Booker’s® Bourbon batches before it – “Oven Buster Batch” features the robust flavor and natural proof that Booker’s® Bourbon is known for and will be available nationwide beginning mid-August with a suggested retail price of $59.99 per 750 mL bottle.

Booker’s® Bourbon is quality screened to remove only pieces of charred barrel wood from the liquid

About Booker’s® Bourbon

Booker’s® Bourbon was inspired by a 200-year-old family tradition and came to life when Booker Noe selected the first bottles of Booker’s as holiday gifts for his friends and family. With its instant popularity within Noe’s close circle, Booker’s Bourbon was soon after bottled and made available on shelves for everyone to enjoy. Booker’s Bourbon is one of the only bourbons bottled unfiltered* and at its natural proof, which varies from batch to batch. Crafted in small batches and aged for six to eight years in charred oak barrels, which are stored in the center of the rack house, Booker’s Bourbon is hand-selected barrel-by-barrel by Fred Noe to ensure every bottle contains a robust, full-bodied whiskey that has a taste, aroma and proof that matches Booker’s whiskey preference.

For more information on Booker’s Bourbon, visit: http://www.bookersbourbon.com/.

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

Single Malt Whisky Distilling Returns to Edinburgh after a 90 Year Absence

Single malt whisky distilling is poised to return to Scotland’s capital after a 90 year absence, following the City of Edinburgh Council’s decision to enter into a lease with a new distillery at the Engine Shed near Holyrood Park.

Whisky expert and former Master Distiller for The Macallan, David Robertson, is behind plans to open the Holyrood Park Distillery – a £2 million boutique micro-distillery and visitor experience at the Engine Shed building in the heart of the city.

The proposal is now subject to a planning application.

David Robertson, project lead and master distiller of the Holyrood Park Distillery, said:  “We are very excited by the prospect of resurrecting the proud tradition of distilling single malt whisky in Edinburgh, following a 90 year absence of whisky distilling in the capital.

“The production and export of whisky is perhaps Scotland’s most iconic industry, supporting huge numbers of jobs, and visiting a distillery is a must for most visitors to Scotland. It seems to us that the one place missing a single malt distillery is Edinburgh, the capital of the country known for the world’s most famous whisky – Scotland. We hope to be able to create an immersive and entertaining visitor experience, supporting the local economy through jobs and training opportunities, while reinforcing the capital’s position as a world class tourism destination.

“Most importantly, our goal is to create beautiful, hand-crafted single malt whiskies which will stand shoulder to shoulder with the other great single malts that are now being produced in Scotland and elsewhere. The Engine Shed building is the ideal location for us to realise this ambition. With its history dating back to the 1830s, it will provide a fantastic home for us to create a small, but world class distillery and tourist destination of which Edinburgh can be proud.”

The Holyrood Park Distillery will be developed with the visitor experience fully integrated into the design of the facility. Visitors will be able to follow the distillation process from start to finish, experiencing at first hand the creation of Edinburgh’s only single malt.

The boutique distillery will also host an education facility to be used as a community and school resource for learning about whisky distilling and the rich history of the site. Visitors will be able to enjoy locally sourced food and drink at an on-site restaurant and bar and ambitions stretch to establishing a weekend market for local crafts and products in the courtyard.  Subject to final design and receipt of planning permission, there are also plans to provide facilities for community events.

Holyrood Park Distillery will initially employ up to 25 staff at varying levels, from trainees right up to experienced distillery operators, tourism and production managers. The business aims to start distilling whisky by Summer 2016 and release a single malt whisky within four years. Due to the small scale of the operation, it will produce only 100,000 litres of alcohol per year, resulting in around 250,000 bottles of mature single malt in 8 to 12 years’ time.

Edinburgh has a long and proud history of whisky production. Back in the late 1700s there were eight licensed distilleries and it is estimated that there may have been as many as 400 illegal stills in Edinburgh. Urban production fell out of fashion but is currently enjoying a boom, with urban distilleries popping up in some of the world’s iconic cities including New York, London, Dublin, Glasgow, Portland, Nashville, New Orleans, LA, Detroit, San Francisco and Austin.

Glen Sciennes was the last single malt whisky distillery to operate in Edinburgh, and was also located in the St. Leonard’s area. The distillery’s maltings were sited near the Engine Shed before its closure in 1925 and later demolition.

The Engine Shed building was built in the 1830s as a goods warehouse for the Edinburgh and Dalkeith Railway, also known as “The Innocent Railway”. Under the ownership of Lothian Regional Council, the building was renovated and, most recently, leased by a social enterprise providing a supportive living and working environment for people with learning disabilities.

Curtain rises on world’s most exclusive whisky

Whisky specialist Gordon & MacPhail raised the curtain today (Wednesday 2 September 2015) at The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, on what it believes to be the world’s most exclusive single malt Scotch whisky.

Mortlach 75 Years Old by Gordon & MacPhail is the latest offering in the Generations range from the family-owned Scotch whisky firm. It was unveiled by members of the Urquhart family, together with whisky writer and connoisseur – and occasional film star – Charles MacLean.  He was joined by renowned Scottish author Alexander McCall Smith.

On 17^th November 1939, John Urquhart, the first generation of the family to be involved in Gordon & MacPhail, instructed the first-fill Sherry cask to be filled with new-make spirit from Speyside’s Mortlach Distillery. Seventy-five years later, the cask was emptied and the precious amber liquid was carefully transferred into beautiful crystal decanters.

With notes of dried apricots and pomegranate, followed by hints of spice and creamy vanilla, the latest release to the luxury Generations range has a smooth and lingering smoky finish which remains long after the dram has been savoured.

Founded in 1895, Gordon & MacPhail is known the world over as the custodian of some of the oldest and rarest single malts. The fourth generation of the Urquhart family involved in the business uphold the same traditions and dedication to whisky which embedded in the company’s philosophy since it was first established.

Stephen Rankin, great grandson of John Urquhart introduced the special whisky saying: “We’ve been anticipating this moment for a long time.  Having been nurtured and cared for by four generations of our family it gives us great pleasure to release this unique and incredibly rare single malt.

“Our family has been immersed in the whisky industry for more than one hundred years and we’ve built up an expertise and knowledge, handed down from generation to generation.”

Members of the third and fourth generation of the Urquhart family poured the single malt for the assembled guests before Charles MacLean invited everyone to join him in tasting the whisky, describing it as “Smooth and highly sophisticated – elegant as a grande dame…the Ingrid Bergman of malts!

“Gordon & MacPhail is one of the few, if not the only company in the world who could have produced this rarest of whiskies. Generations of the Urquhart family have taken a long term view to maturing Scotch whisky, guided by a simple family saying – The future is shaped by what we do today. Today reveals what we did in the past. This philosophy has enabled the current generation to unveil this exquisite whisky,” he added.

Generations Mortlach 75 Years Old by Gordon & MacPhail is presented in the iconic teardrop-shaped Generations decanter. Each decanter is uniquely numbered and skilfully handcrafted with 75 multi-level “cuts”; each cut representing a year of the whisky’s maturation. The decanter sits on a white presentation plinth with two specially designed crystal glasses.

The decanter is packaged in a luxury Aniline leather travel bag and accompanied by a specially commissioned book, Seven Nights with Mortlach. Acclaimed whisky writer, Charles Maclean and international bestselling author, Alexander McCall Smith have joined forces to tell tales of Scotland, whisky and the people behind this special malt, accompanied by illustrations from up and coming Scottish artists.

Mortlach 75 Years Old by Gordon & MacPhail was matured in a first-fill Sherry butt cask.   Only 100 decanters, bottled at cask strength (44.4% ABV), have been released for worldwide sale.

The RRP of Generations Mortlach 75 Years Old by Gordon & MacPhail is £20,000, although prices may differ in international markets due to local taxes and duty.

For more information visit www.gordonandmacphail.com/generations

Notes 

About Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail is an independent, family-owned spirit and wine merchant who have been based in Elgin, Moray, since 1895. Four generations of the Urquhart family have continued the tradition of selecting, maturing and bottling Single Malt Scotch whiskies.

Since its foundation, Gordon & MacPhail’s policy has been to send casks to distilleries throughout Scotland, fill them with ‘new make’ spirit and mature them either at the distillery of origin or in the firm’s own bonded warehouses in Elgin.

Now the world’s leading malt whisky specialists, Gordon & MacPhail exports to more than 50 countries. It offers more than 300 expressions of own-bottled single malts. In 2009 and again in 2013, Gordon & MacPhail was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, reflecting their successful growth in exports over a ten year period.

The company’s guiding philosophy states: “The future is shaped by what we do today. Today reveals what we did in the past.”

Tasting Notes for 75 Years Old Mortlach single malt Scotch whisky

Written by: Charles MacLean

Appearance: Mid-amber, with rubious lights.

Aroma (Nat. Str.): Fresh and clean; very slight nose prickle: still lively. A highly perfumed, floral top note – lily of the valley, barber’s shop, scented hand cream, soft leather lady’s dress handbag – with a fruity complex in the middle (dried figs, pomegranate, ripe pear. Peach juice); creamy vanilla (Crème Anglaise), even vanilla fudge, and a faint trace of coffee in the background.

Aroma (@30% Vol): Water reduces the floral notes with scented oil (bath oil? Teak oil?), increases the soft leather note and dries out the aroma somewhat (warm sanded hardwood).

Taste (Nat. Str.): Sweet to start, but not as sweet as expected; considerable fresh acidity and slightly mouth drying. Bitter almonds. A most unusual trace of hemp ropes and very faded creosote, lending a slight smokiness. A medium-length finish, leaving an attractive aftertaste of sandalwood.

Taste (@30% Vol): Lightly sweet; slightly oily texture; mouth drying; then slightly bitter finish. Some spice across the tongue. Warming, even at this lower strength.

Comment: A most unusual taste – never before encountered. Smooth and highly sophisticated – elegant as a grande dame – the Ingrid Bergman of malts!

About the Packaging

Generations Mortlach 75 Years Old by Gordon & MacPhail is beautifully presented in the iconic teardrop-shaped Generations decanter. Each of the 100 decanters released worldwide is uniquely numbered and skilfully handcrafted with 75 multi-level “cuts”; each cut representing a year of the whisky’s maturation.

The decanter nestles on an elegant white presentation plinth, delicately sculpted with ripples to resemble the movement of the water used to create this whisky in 1939.  Two crystal glasses, uniquely designed for the enjoyment of this exclusive Single Malt, sit either side of the decanter.

Accompanying the presentation is a book written by acclaimed whisky writer, Charles Maclean and international bestselling author, Alexander McCall Smith.  In “Seven Nights with Mortlach” the authors relate tales of Scotland, Scotch Whisky and the people behind the Single Malt.   Seven beautiful poems, written by McCall Smith, accompany the narrative.  The poems are accompanied by illustrations commissioned for the book by emerging Scottish based artists.

Completing the presentation is a luxury travel holdall.  Handmade using the finest Aniline leather, the holdall is finished with exquisite detailing.