anCnoc Releases Limited Edition Vintage 2000 

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky has today (22^nd September) announced the latest addition to its outstanding portfolio, the exclusive  Vintage 2000. Only 1000 cases of this exceptional single malt will be available in the UK, Sweden, Japan and Russia, to name but a few, from September 2014 with a retail price of £55 per bottle.

The whisky has matured in Spanish oak ex-sherry butts and American oak ex-bourbon barrels at Knockdhu Distillery in Knock, Banffshire, and has been bottled in its most natural form – neither chill-filtered nor coloured at 46% ABV. The Vintage liquid is bronzed honey in colour with rich amber highlights and a hint of oriental spices on the nose. To taste, the expression is smooth and creamy with a balanced finish.

Staying true to anCnoc style the packaging of this stylish single malt mirrors the minimalist design of anCnoc’s core range and features the contemporary yet traditional illustration of the Knockdhu Distillery.

anCnoc, which is part of the Inver House Distillers portfolio, is a brand closely associated with the arts and renowned the world over by malt enthusiasts for bringing a modern twist to the traditions of fine whisky, producing a single malt that is accessible and versatile for all occasions.The brand recently launched its peated collection earlier this year with four expressions of varying peat strength – aiming to help drinkers find a dram to suit their palate and to ‘shine a light’ on the dark, enigmatic world of peat.

anCnocAssistant Brand Manager, Stephanie Bridge commented: ‘The unique taste portfolio of the vintage 2000 is set to be a hit with malt enthusiasts everywhere.Releasing the next vintage in the anCnoc collection marks the end of a very exciting spring and summer for the brand. I’m confident that the exclusive expression will be a welcome addition to anyone’s malt collection.’ 

Notes

About anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is produced at the Knockdhu Distillery which was established in 1894 and is one of the smallest and most enchanting in the Scottish Highlands. It’s renowned the world over by malt enthusiasts for producing a single malt that makes every day a special occasion.

The new peated collection from anCnoc aims to unravel the mysteries of peated whisky for modern drinkers, this new range from the Knockdhu Distillery features anCnoc’s classic light, easy-drinking style but with a dark, distinctive and smoky twist.The first four releases in the collection Rutter, Flaughter, Tushkar and Cutter were unveiled earlier this year.

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.

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY NAMED

“BRAND INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR” AT WHISKY MAGAZINE’S

ICONS OF WHISKY AMERICA AWARDS 2015

Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley Named Whisky Distillery Manager of the Year 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Oct. 1, 2014) – Buffalo Trace Distillery received two coveted awards at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky America Awards 2015, and also two “highly commended” awards. 

Named “Brand Innovator of the Year,” Buffalo Trace was cited for this prestigious award for its quest to find the perfect whisky through its Experimental Collection and the building of its Warehouse X.  Buffalo Trace’s Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley was also named Distillery Manager of the Year.

Buffalo Trace’s Visitor Center was recognized as “highly commended” as Visitor Attraction of the Year, the Distillery itself was named “highly commended” in the Distiller of the Year category.

“The number of nominees in each category increases each year with the proliferation of new distilleries opening,” said Harlen Wheatley, master distiller. “To be recognized in four categories amongst some very tough competition within the U.S. is both an honor and a thrill.”  

The Icons of Whisky Awards were created by Whisky Magazine to celebrate the people and places behind the great whiskies of the world. Nominees are self-nominated, and voted on by those working in the spirits industry. The editors of Whisky Magazine then cull down the votes into final winners. This year’s contest had more than 4,000 votes in the 13 different categories.  The winners from the Icons of Whisky America Awards will go to compete at the World Whiskies Awards taking place in London, England, in the Spring of 2015.   

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is a family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1786 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won seven distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named Whisky Magazine 2010 World Icons of Whisky “Whisky Visitor Attraction of the Year.” Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 200 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com

News release from Gordon & MacPhail 

Historic whisky releases mark new era for family firm

A unique and historic series of whiskies is to be launched by single malt specialists Gordon & MacPhail to celebrate the steady transition of the family-owned business to the next generation.

Four extremely rare Speyside whiskies chosen jointly by members of the third and fourth generations of the Urquhart family will be released under the prestigious Private Collection Ultra label this autumn.

The whiskies are:

• A 61 Year Old Linkwood, the oldest ever released, from cask No.279 of Linkwood in the company warehouses, selected by retired director Rosemary Rankin and her son Stephen Rankin, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of UK Sales

• A 62 Year Old Glenlivet initially matured in first fill Hogshead before being transferred to another first fill Hogshead in January 1969, selected by retired Managing Director Ian Urquhart, his son Neil, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Logistics and Facilities, and daughter Jenny Houldsworth, who is a Non-Executive Director of the company

• A 63 Year Old Mortlach from the company’s last cask of 1951 Mortlach, selected by retired Joint Managing Director David Urquhart and his twin sons Stuart, Gordon & MacPhail’s Whisky Supply Manager, and Richard, Export Sales Executive

• A 57 Year Old Strathisla, the oldest ever released, selected by current Managing Director Michael Urquhart and his daughter Laura Urquhart, Gordon & MacPhail Brand Manager

Rosemary, Ian, David and Michael are the daughter and sons of Gordon & MacPhail pioneer George Urquhart, who succeeded his father John in the business and established its reputation as custodian of some of Scotland’s rarest and oldest single malt Scotch whiskies.

Michael Urquhart, who will retire as Managing Director of Gordon & MacPhail this autumn, said: “The release of the four whiskies marks a historical period of time for Gordon & MacPhail. Our business is built on a foundation of the long term vision and of the handing down of knowledge and expertise, along with stocks of maturing whiskies, to future generations.

“Embracing this philosophy the Executive Directors, members of the fourth generation of the Urquhart family and the whole team at Gordon & MacPhail, look forward to continuing to release single malt whiskies of the highest quality for whisky drinkers around the world to enjoy.”

The four whiskies in the Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Ultra are presented in beautifully-designed decanters, individually numbered, with the whisky details engraved and in-filled with silver colour. A silver-plated neck collar and stopper adorns each decanter.

Wood, metal and glass are combined in a striking and innovative way to protect and display the whisky; the decanter nestles in a glass-bottomed pack, revealing a hint of the whisky colour.

A series of four books by whisky writer Jonny McCormick, one for each of the whiskies, tells the story of Gordon & MacPhail and the whisky and regales the reader with tales of origins and ancestry, of people, place and belonging.

Mr McCormick said: “It has been a privilege to sit down with each of the four members of the third generation and their children already working in the business.

“As well as revealing a good deal about themselves, they gave some powerful insights into what has made this family business such an extraordinary success for more than 100 years.”

Fifty-five decanters of Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Ultra Linkwood 1953 will be released for sale worldwide; sixty-nine of the Glenlivet 1952; sixty-one of the Mortlach 1951; and sixty-one of the Strathisla 1957. The UK recommended retail price will be £6,250 for each decanter (prices may vary in export markets because of duty and import taxes).

About Gordon & MacPhail 

Gordon & MacPhail is an independent, family-owned Scotch whisky specialist which has been based in Elgin, Moray, since 1895. Four generations of the Urquhart family have continued the tradition of seeking out the best and rarest 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 one of the world’s leading malt whisky specialists, Gordon & MacPhail exports to more than 60 countries. It offers more than 300 presentations of own-bottled single malts. In 2009, Gordon & MacPhail was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade; an honour that was bestowed on the business again in 2013 with a visit from HRH The Princess Royal.

In 1993 Gordon & MacPhail purchased Benromach Distillery and re-equipped it before it was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998. 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.

In 2010 Gordon & MacPhail made history by bottling the oldest cask ever released – a 70 Year Old Mortlach, distilled in 1938. They followed this up by releasing a 70 Year Old Glenlivet in 2011.

Gordon & MacPhail is proud of its Moray roots and the company, its directors and its staff play an active role in their local community by supporting local charities and sponsoring local events.

INTRODUCING CHIVAS 12 ‘MADE FOR GENTLEMEN’ BY BREMONT: A CELEBRATION OF CRAFTSMANSHIP, STYLE AND GENEROSITY

Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury Scotch whisky, has collaborated with award-winning luxury British watch brand, Bremont, to create the next installment of its much sought-after Made for Gentlemen Limited Edition collection, available globally from this month.

This year’s Made for Gentlemen collaboration also sees the release of additional collectors’ items in the form of 12 Chivalry watches, created by Bremont and Chivas to celebrate excellence and precision in luxury.

In keeping with Chivas Regal’s spirit of generosity, the exclusive Bremont ‘Chivalry’ watches will be auctioned for charities around the world. Admirers of luxury watches and whisky will have the opportunity to bid for one of these watches by participating in an online auction taking place from 22nd October – 9th November 2014 on www.chivas.com/bremont, with proceeds being donated to The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Programme.

The Chivas 12 Made for Gentlemen by Bremont limited edition gift tin – which will be available domestically and in Travel Retail from September 2014 – houses a bottle of Chivas 12 and features deconstructed watch elements to showcase the elegant and complex engineering of Bremont chronometers. The polished steel Bremont ‘Chivalry’ watch, features a piece of oak cask used in the maturation of whiskies for Chivas Regal, the signature of James and John Chivas etched on the rotor of the timepiece and the Chivas crest subtly embossed on the dial. An engraved copper plate, taken from a retired Scotch whisky copper still, sits on the leather presentation pouch.

Richard Black, Global Brand Director for Chivas Regal says: “Over the last three years, The Chivas Made for Gentlemen series has gone from strength to strength, resonating with modern gentlemen around the world who demand substance and style from luxury experiences and products. With this latest edition, we’re celebrating not only the style and handcrafted quality of Chivas and Bremont, but also the spirit of generosity for which John and James Chivas were renowned, and that is increasingly valued in today’s competitive world. We’re delighted with the exquisite designs and we’re confident that Chivas 12 Made for Gentlemen by Bremont will be well received by discerning whisky fans around the world.”

Nick English, Co-Founder of Bremont, adds: “For me, the collaboration with Chivas was a genuine meeting of minds. We are all dedicated and passionate about keeping traditions of craftsmanship alive and we are also focused upon leaving a positive legacy. Bremont watches are ‘Tested Beyond Endurance’ and Giles and I have been blown away by the level of skill that Chivas Master Blender, Colin Scott, deploys in channeling nature and time in blending their Scotch whiskies.”

The collaboration between Chivas Regal and Bremont highlights the shared synergy between the two luxury British icon brands, both of which were inspired by brothers and have gone on to become global successes, admired throughout the world for their quality, craftsmanship and timeless style.

Notes:

Chivas Made for Gentlemen
The Chivas Made for Gentlemen by Bremont is the third in a series of annual collaborations between Chivas Regal 12 and modern British craftsmen. Year one celebrated the handcrafted brogue by Tim Little and Chivas paid homage to Saville Row tailoring with a limited edition by Patrick Grant in 2013. Bremont boutiques currently offer Chivas at its in-store bars. Chivas also supports Bremont events internationally.

About Chivas Regal
Chivas Regal is a truly global brand, selling 4.6 million 9L cases annually in more than 150 countries across Europe, Asia Pacific and Americas. The Chivas Regal range is the epitome of style, substance and exclusivity and includes Chivas Regal 12, 18 and 25 Year Old.
www.chivas.com

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.2 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 which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasbrothers.com

The Bremont Watch Company
Bremont is a British luxury watch brand, manufacturing mechanical watches in Henley-on-Thames, UK. Co-founded by brothers Nick & Giles English in 2002, Bremont has made a substantial impact on the watch industry in a very short period of time. Honours include being named ‘Best British Emerging Luxury Brand’ by Walpole 2008, voted ‘Luxury Watch Brand of Year’ at the UK Jewellery Awards for the last three years, and winning ‘Best Breakthrough Brand’ at the 2012 Luxury Briefing Awards. The brand remains true to its original principles of durability, legibility and precision, also manufacturing watches for some of the most exclusive military squadrons around the world. Bremont continues to play an influential role in revitalising the British watch industry, the birthplace of numerous timekeeping innovations still used today
www.bremont.com

SOUTHERN COMFORT® RELEASES

NEW HOLIDAY GINGERBREAD SPICE

Limited-Edition Flavor Debuts in October for Holiday Season as the Perfect Party Gift 

(Louisville, Ky.) – Nothing makes it feel more like the holidays than warm gingerbread and a hint of spice. Southern Comfort knows the feeling – and they’ve bottled it just in time for the holidays. To celebrate the season, Southern Comfort introduces Gingerbread Spice – a zesty and smooth combination of warm gingerbread flavors, creamy vanilla and subtle notes of Southern Comfort. Upon first sip, tasters are met with an enticing mix of fresh baked sweet rolls and brown spices, finishing with that classic Southern Comfort spice complimented by warm gingerbread and a touch of cinnamon. 

With its festive holiday packaging and gift tag, Gingerbread Spice makes the perfect holiday party gift or simply a great gift to yourself. Best served warm to bring out its dynamic notes, try Gingerbread Spice by itself or mixed into your favorite holiday cocktails, like the Gingerbread House Cider – the perfect blend of Gingerbread Spice and hot cider, topped with a cinnamon stick for that extra seasonal kick. Be sure to check out more holiday-inspired recipes at southerncomfort.com. 

“Gingerbread is one of the most popular holiday flavors. You see it just about everywhere – in coffee, seasonal sweets, and now in your favorite spirit.” said Jennifer Powell, Southern Comfort Brand Director. “Southern Comfort’s unique flavor is mixed with hints of Gingerbread and cinnamon spice to create a delicious, ready to serve holiday drink that’s sure to become a holiday tradition.” 

Southern Comfort Gingerbread Spice will be available for a suggested retail price of $11.99 nationwide starting today through the holiday season, wherever wine and spirits are sold. Join the conversation online with #GiveComfort. 

About Southern Comfort

Southern Comfort®, a fruit, spice, and whiskey flavored liqueur, was created in New Orleans by bartender M.W. Heron in 1874. Today, it is enjoyed by friends in over 100 countries around the world and continues to grow as an icon brand. Please visit us at SouthernComfort.com and facebook.com/southerncomfort. 

Please Drink Responsibly.

Spirit Specialty, 15% Alc. by Volume, Southern Comfort Company, Louisville, KY ©2014

50 YEARS OF CRAFT COMES TO LIFE WITH THE WINCHESTER COLLECTION

Introducing the world’s first collection of rare 50 Year Old single malt Scotch whiskies from The Glenlivet, on sale at Harrods from October 2014

Today marks the inaugural release from The Winchester Collection: the world’s first series of rare and precious 50 year old single malt Scotch whiskies from the single malt that started it all. “Vintage 1964” is the first release from this exclusive collection, which is anticipated to become one of the most sought after and priceless whisky collections in the world.

Just 100 bottles of this remarkable Speyside single malt, priced at $25,000 each, will go on sale around the globe, with the very first bottle – Bottle No 1 – going on sale at one of the world’s most prestigious retailers, Harrods, this October. An undisclosed number of further releases from The Winchester Collection will then follow, with “Vintage 1966” confirmed to be next in line.

No expense or attention to craftsmanship has been spared in creating the perfect vessel to house the whisky, with each element handcrafted by artisans from the British Isles, featuring hand-blown glass and the inclusion of precious materials such as rose gold and ‘Cairngorm Stone’.

The spirit inside lays claim to 50 years of unrivalled knowledge, care and craft, which started when Captain Bill Smith-Grant – the last distilling descendent of The Glenlivet’s founder, George Smith – laid this whisky down to mature in April 1964.

It was soon after identified as a whisky of exceptional promise, and was cared for by no fewer than seven Master Distillers as it slowly and steadily developed the signature flavours that make The Glenlivet an enduring benchmark of quality. It is under the guidance of current Master Distiller, Alan Winchester – from whom the collection takes its name – that this precious Vintage has been deemed ready to be enjoyed by only the most ardent and discerning of single malt connoisseurs, bottled at cask strength (42.3%) in June 2014.

Winchester comments: “This release marks a milestone for The Glenlivet. Casks of this age and quality are such a rare thing these days that I’m immensely proud to introduce the first of these rare Vintages of preserved stocks from the distillery’s rich past. They’re a testament to our legacy of excellence and to those who have nurtured this whisky over the years, including Captain Bill Smith-Grant, who played such a pivotal role introducing our single malt to the world.”

Nikki Burgess, Global Brand Director for The Glenlivet, said: “The release of The Winchester Collection sets a new benchmark in single malt. We are excited to share this unparalleled spirit, the product of 50 years of craftsmanship, with whisky lovers and collectors alike. Vintage 1964 allows us to tell a new chapter in The Glenlivet’s rich history and is a fitting tribute to those who shaped Speyside’s original single malt whisky.”

NOTES

About The Winchester Collection
The Winchester Collection is a series of 50 Year Old single malt Scotch whiskies, which will be released over the next few years, starting with Vintage 1964 in 2014. Taking its name from current Master Distiller Alan Winchester, this exquisite collection of rare whiskies represents the legacy of a generation of men whose unparalleled craft and skill created this, the rarest of whisky.

The Winchester Collection Vintage 1964 – tasting notes

Nose: The perfect marriage of spirit and cask releases a wonderfully rich aroma of fruity pear and peach nectar, which envelops the nose. Complemented by juicy, sweet raisins, dark chocolate and a fondant orange crème, intermingled with a tantalising honeycomb crunch sweetness that gives incredible depth.

Palate: Bursting with luscious fruit flavours of ripe pears and oranges, black cherries and smooth creamy toffee, resulting in a fantastically velvety texture. In the background, caramelised sugar and candy flavours elevate the richness of the taste.

Finish: Exceptionally smooth and luxurious, lingering on the palate and in memory for eternity.

The Winchester Collection Vintage 1964 – packaging
Bottle: Acclaimed Scottish glass artists Nichola Burns and Brodie Nairn (GLASSTORM) have created a decanter design, inspired by The Glenlivet’s glorious history.

Stopper: Completing the decanter is a jewel-like stopper, designed by internationally acclaimed silversmith Richard Fox, whose past commissions have included Formula One and Rolls Royce. The design combines precious materials such as rose gold, and is crowned with a ‘Cairngorm Stone’, often known as “The Whisky Stone” as a result of its unique colouring.

Cabinet: Designed by award-winning furniture maker, John Galvin, who has applied traditional cabinet-making techniques to a contemporary design, resulting in a beautiful, bespoke piece that will stand the test of time, just like the rare and precious liquid that is housed inside.

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.2 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

Twitter @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

Twitter @Pernod_Ricard

About The Glenlivet

Created by George Smith in 1824, The Glenlivet is the original single malt Scotch whisky, renowned for its smooth and fruity flavour profile. Today, The Glenlivet is the No. 2 single malt Scotch whisky in the world and the No.1 single malt Scotch whisky in the USA, the world’s largest malt whisky market. The Glenlivet is also the biggest contributor to the volume growth of the single malt category worldwide, adding more than any other single malt whisky brand over the last five years. As the single malt that started it all, The Glenlivet is committed to continuing its legacy for crafting single malt whiskies of outstanding quality and for pioneering innovation within the category. The brand has introduced a raft of successful initiatives in recent years aimed at improving understanding and interest in single malt whisky, such as the launch of The Glenlivet Alpha, a mystery single malt released without cask information or tasting notes, and the creation of The Glenlivet Guardians, an online hub for fans of The Glenlivet worldwide to engage with the brand and each other.
www.theglenlivet.com

Twitter @TheGlenlivet

The ONE is One  

The ONE, the first blend of whiskies from around the British Isles ever to be produced and the inaugural product from The Lakes Distillery, will celebrate its first anniversary at this year’s Taste Cumbria festival on the 27^th and 28^th of September. 

The artisan-style blend, which combines the finest whiskies from the British Isles, has enjoyed an incredible year since its launch at 2013’s Taste Cumbria and is now stocked in Harvey Nichols’ stores nationwide and Michelin restaurants throughout the UK. 

The Lakes Distillery has also procured distribution deals for The ONE across The Netherlands, France, Belgium and The UAE, and The ONE joined the whisky world elite when it was classified recently as one of the best whiskies in the world – less than a year after launch, the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) awarded The ONE a silver legend. 

Paul Currie, founder and managing director of The Lakes Distillery said: “This year has far surpassed our hopes and expectations. As opposed to blends made only of scotch whiskies, The ONE has been carefully created from the best whiskies from around the British Isles, leading to a very unique whisky. 

“The Lakes Distillery is a Cumbrian brand through and through and we had enormous pride in launching The ONE at Taste Cumbria last year, so it seems only fitting we celebrate its first anniversary there this year. 

“In addition, this year’s Taste Cumbria will see another exciting Lakes Distillery launch as we will be offering samples of The Lakes Gin for the very first time, as well as being joined by Olympic star Chemmy Alcott who is brand ambassador for the gin.” 

Production of The Lakes Single Malt set to start this autumn at The Lakes Distillery, while its bistro, tours and shop will open to the public by December 2014. 

For further information please visit www.lakesdistillery.com and to buy tickets for Taste Cumbria please visit www.tastecumbria.com.    

Notes: 

The ONE is available to buy online at http://www.lakesdistillery.com/shop/

The Lakes Distillery

Close to Bassenthwaite Lake, in an area of unimaginable beauty encircled by Cumbrian fells, is the perfect home for the first-ever Lakes Distillery. 

The experienced team behind the Lakes Distillery, which includes managing director Paul Currie who co founded the Arran Distillery, Master Distiller Chris Anderson with over 30 years’ experience and Alan Rutherford a former Production Director of Diageo, are renovating the historic buildings of an old Victorian Model Farm next to the famous river Derwent and close to Bassenthwaite Lake, with the aim to produce a new world-class single malt whisky. 

The water from the famous River Derwent, with its source high up in the fells, a team steeped in whisky experience, and perfect conditions for distilling are set to create a very special malt. 

The Lakes Distillery will open to the public in late 2014. The Lakes single malt will begin production this summer, and its blended whisky from the British Isles, called The ONE, is available to buy now. 

The ONE Whisky

The ONE is the first British blended whisky ever to be produced.  As opposed to blends made only of scotch whiskies, The ONE has been carefully created from whiskies from around the British Isles, leading to a very unique whisky. This is very much an artisan blend – the team in Cumbria has enormous experience in making the very finest whiskies, and their expertise has put together this outstanding blend, which has a lightly peated character.  

Blended whiskies are made up of grain and malt whiskies, and it is the quantity of malt whisky in the blend that dictates the quality – so the more malt whisky in the blend, the better the quality. The ONE has a very high malt content and its quality is very much in line with single malt whiskies. 

Distributors

–       Netherlands – Van Wees. 

–       France – La Maison du Whisky

–       Belgium – Nectar

–       UAE – MMI

–       Spain/Poland – currently in discussions with potential distributors 

The Connoisseurs’ Club 

The company has launched a Connoisseurs’ Club, exclusively for those with a genuine passion for whisky. For this reason we will create only 60 limited edition oak sherry casks, exclusively for club members. No other editions of The Lakes Single Malt will be produced in these rare casks, providing members with a unique tasting malt not available for general retail. It’s an exciting, once in a lifetime opportunity, never to be reproduced. 

Each cask is estimated to contain more than 100 bottles and members can be there on that historic first day to make the whisky themselves, fill their own Connoisseur’s Cask and see it stored in the distillery warehouse. The Connoisseurs’ Club limited membership costs £12,000, which includes the unique signature cask, exclusive annual events, accommodation at the nearby 4-star Trout Hotel, delivery, all duty and VAT. It’s estimated if kept, the cask will be worth over £20,000 in years to come.

The Founders’ Club

The first ever distillery in the beautiful Lake District, opening later this year, is setting aside the first ever 100 casks of malt whisky produced for members of its Founders’ Club. Each year for ten years, members will receive one 70cl bottle making up a collectible set of the distillery’s first ever production, all with unique, limited edition labels. These casks will not be available for the general public and are uniquely reserved for members. 

As the bottles will undoubtedly be keepsakes, members will also receive two miniatures each year to taste the spirit as it develops over time into a wonderful, single malt whisky. Founder’s Club membership costs just £595, with an expected value of over £1,400 over the ten years period.

Jolly Toper Tastings, Edinburgh, Scotland 

For years the premier whisky experiences in Edinburgh have been Jolly Toper Tasting events.  Under this name Mark Davidson offers a variety of tastings in public and private settings. Davidson, who also manages the daily operations of the Cadenhead’s whisky shop on the Royal Mile, has responded to requests to expand Jolly Toper’s presence on social networks.  He launched a Twitter account (@JTWhisky), Instagram (instagram.com/jollytoper), and greatly enhanced the Facebook page (goo.gl/CzSIWD) in order to bring the tastings outside the tasting room.  The web page (http://www.jollytoper.com/) is undergoing major enhancements and will include previously unavailable options for those interested in attending the tastings, to join or renew annual membership.  People unable to attend the tastings can experience them via his YouTube channel Jolly Toper Whisky (http://goo.gl/KC9Fpx).

The Jolly Toper Himself

ISLE OF ARRAN UNLEASHES LEGEND OF MACHRIE MOOR WITH NEW EDITIONS 

If you are prepared to explore Machrie Moor, you will be delighted with what you discover. 

Though the legend talks of the warrior giant Fingal and his favourite dog, what will actually await you is a stunning expression of the Arran Malt – a delightful drink with a tale to tell. 

Award-winning Scotch whisky producer Isle of Arran Distillers is launching the latest in its Machrie Moor peated whisky collection, which includes the first ever cask strength version of the limited edition Single Malt. 

The Machrie Moor Single Malt first appeared five years ago, inspired by the legend of a warrior giant who tethered his dog to a stone in a mystical peat bog called Machrie Moor which lies on the west coast of the Isle of Arran. 

This September the fifth edition of Machrie Moor – the only peated Arran malt – will be released worldwide, alongside a cask strength edition which has been bottled at 58.4%. Both single malts are limited edition and highly anticipated because of their unique flavour.

Master Distiller James MacTaggart carefully chose the very best Arran peated casks to create these two whiskies to savour. 

MacTaggart said: “When we first created Machrie Moor, we wanted to create a drink which kept the character and taste of Arran that our followers love but included a taste of something different with the peat flourish. 

“We were blown away with the reception our first edition of Machrie Moor received which has inspired us to produce the subsequent editions and now this fifth expression. 

“This year’s edition is particularly special as we are also introducing a cask strength version of the single malt, which we are really excited about and we are confident it will prove popular with whisky fans who want to try a cask strength dram with a difference.” 

Machrie Moor – The Peated Arran Malt – has hints of vanilla, fresh pineapple and citrus, with an extra punch of peat smokiness on the finish. 

The cask strength edition has distinct influence of peat and notes of fresh pineapple and a caramelised bourbon cask vanilla finish. 

Only 12,000 bottles of Machrie Moor Fifth Edition and just 6,000 bottles of the first edition cask strength Machrie Moor will be available when they go on sale on October 6th. 

Euan added: “We were inspired by the legend of warrior giant Fingal tethering his favourite dog Bran to a stone known as Fingal’s Cauldron Seat on Machrie Moor and these peated expressions of the Arran Single Malt perfectly captures the rugged beauty and lore of the landscape of this area of Arran. 

Our followers have come to know and love Machrie Moor over the last five years for its distinctive taste and we are hopeful that whisky lovers will respond just as well to the new cask strength edition which is really something special.” 

The releases will be available to all Arran key markets worldwide including UK, France, Germany, USA, Russia and Japan. 

Machrie Moor – The Peated Arran Malt (46% abv) has an RRP of £41.99 while Machrie Moor Cask Strength Single Malt (58.4%) has an RRP of £49.99. Both are available from www.arranwhisky.com and specialist whisky shops.  

Notes

The Arran Malt – Machrie Moor 5^th Edition is released in early October and will be available through Arran’s network of worldwide distributors. These can be found on www.arranwhisky.com/distributors RRP is £41.99 for 70cl. 

The Arran Malt – Machrie Moor Cask Strength is released in early October and will be available through Arran’s network of worldwide distributors, excluding the USA.  Distributors can be found at www.arranwhisky.com/distributors RRP is £59.99 for 70cl. 

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).

News release from Benromach Distillery Company Ltd 

New 100° Proof whisky from distillers of classic Speyside single malts  

A new single malt whisky has been unveiled by the Benromach Distillery Company Ltd as the brand continues to grow. 

Benromach 100° Proof is bottled at 57% ABV – the old Imperial measure which followed a tradition established when sceptical sailors, who wanted to ensure their rum rations had not been watered down, mixed spirit with gunpowder. If the mixture ignited, its strength was “proved”. 

The 100° Proof is an intense and richly complex whisky with sherry kicks, stewed fruit, beeswax polish, vanilla pods and delicate smoke. 

The new whisky joins a stable of expressions led by the flagship Benromach 10 Years Old. 

Benromach 100° Proof will adopt the same new look as that for the 10 Years Old, which was unveiled in April this year. 

The new packaging, developed in conjunction with branding agency Stuff Creative, emphasises the handcrafted credentials of the whisky, made using the finest natural ingredients by just three distillers at the Forres distillery. 

The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd, which is owned by single malt specialist Gordon & MacPhail, has also revealed new packaging in the same style for its Benromach Organic and Benromach Peat Smoke expressions. 

Benromach Organic was the world’s first wholly organic whisky, certified by the UK Soil Association, when it was launched in 2006. 

Benromach Peat Smoke is produced in very small batches with a phenol level of 67ppm and is a wonderfully fruity and smoky single malt. 

Michael Urquhart, Managing Director of Gordon & MacPhail, said: “We are custodians of the time-honoured crafts of distillation and maturation and we enjoy experimenting to present different styles of Benromach for consumers to enjoy. 

“The 100° Proof will have a strong appeal and exemplify the versatility of what is a contemporary and sophisticated Benromach brand.” 

Benromach Distillery was established in 1898 and changed hands many times. It was bought by Gordon & MacPhail in 1993 and re-opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998. 

Since then, sales of Benromach have grown rapidly. Last year they increased by 29% and the whisky is now exported to 30 countries around the world. 

Last month the company opened two new dunnage warehouses as it expands to meet growing demand. It also recently recruited a third distiller.  

Notes 

Leading malt whisky specialist Gordon & MacPhail is the owner of Benromach Distillery. Established in 1898, it was virtually derelict when the family-owned company bought it in 1993. Following a painstaking restoration and re-equipment, the distillery was re-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 pre-1960s Speyside whiskies. 

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. 

Benromach 10 Years Old 

Benromach 10 Years Old is created from the finest Scottish barley and pure spring water from the nearby Romach hills. After being matured for at least 10 years, it emerges golden in colour and displays rich fruit, sweet chocolate and delicate spicy aromas. With a rich sherry influence, the mouth-watering palate coats the senses with exotic fruit flavours, toasted malt and a delicate hint of smoke. 

The new look for the Benromach expressions has been created and designed by Edinburgh based design studio, Stuff Creative.