Laphroaig Launches ‘Unphorgettable’ Campaign to Leave its Iconic Mark on Whisky Drinkers

Striking depictions of real drinkers’ words brought to life through a classically Laphroaig lens

Islay, United Kingdom, 7 October 2024: Iconic Islay distillery Laphroaig has launched a new global campaign, “Unphorgettable”. Designed to recruit new drinkers and reconnect with loyal fans, this campaign is rooted in the single malt whisky’s bold, distinctive taste and personality.

Once tasted, never forgotten, Laphroaig has used real drinkers’ own descriptions and created animations of ‘Taste Characters’. From an angel to a donkey, a pack of wolves to swirling waves, the four ‘Taste Characters’ have become the new, bold characterisation of Laphroaig.

Launching first in the U.K., France, Canada and Italy before rolling out to other countries in 2025, “Unphorgettable” will be supported by both Above the Line (ATL) and Below the Line (BTL) campaigns. The campaign will include a 20-second film to hero Unphorgettable experiences in the on-trade and during key gifting occasions. Laphroaig’s signature colour palette is instantly recognisable, with the bottle as the hero. The creative was developed by global brand design agency Design Bridge and Partners London, who recently redesigned the visual identity of the brand’s iconic whisky bottle.

Fleur Maguet, Laphroaig Global Brand Director at Suntory Global Spirits, said: “We know that every sip of Laphroaig is an unforgettable experience, so we asked over 250 members of our devoted whisky community, Friends of Laphroaig, to articulate their first sip in our ‘Opinions Welcome’ campaign. The ‘Unphorgettable’ campaign is a natural evolution and stands out within the whisky category through the authentic expression of real words from real fans describing the whisky they love in a way that is surprising, evocative and emotive. Creating a campaign as unique and unforgettable as Laphroaig itself.”

Laphroaig Unphorgettable invites drinkers to explore the intensity of its flavour profile, capture core memories and ensure every experience shared over a Laphroaig is truly lasting.

About Laphroaig® 

Laphroaig is one of the best-selling Islay single malts globally and is synonymous with this famous whisky region. Established in 1815 by the Johnston brothers, Laphroaig has stayed true to its bold flavour and distinctive character for over 200 years. Today, Laphroaig is one of only a handful of distilleries that continues to craft whisky using traditional techniques like floor malting barley and using a “cold smoking” process to create its signature smoky flavour. Laphroaig’s commitment to bold character has earned us a dedicated following of brand fans, the Friends of Laphroaig.  Launched in 1994, the same year HM King Charles granted the brand a Royal Warrant, the programme has since grown to a truly global community of thousands of whisky lovers representing over 170 countries. www.laphroaig.com

About Suntory Global Spirits

As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker’s Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com

CLAXTON’S RELEASE THE DALSWINTON SERIES – 2^ND EDITION

Following-on from the huge success of the inaugural Dalswinton Series, Claxton’s are set to release the next five exclusive whiskies this Autumn.

Curated over several years, the new releases will complement the original five that were released three years ago. In line with the original series, the new releases will all be presented in the same heavy-set decanters with hand-etched images of the life and history of the area.

Claxton’s Maturation Warehouses and Tasting Rooms sit in the heart of the beautiful and historic, 5,000 acre Dalswinton Estate. The first Dalswinton Series was released in 2021 and sold out globally. The Second Edition consists of five whiskies from prestigious coastal Scotch whisky distilleries; each one over 30 years of age.

Events from the rich and diverse history of the 5,000-acre Dalswinton Estate inspire the images adorning the decanters. Dumfries-based illustrator Jamie Stryker drew each scene. The Dalswinton Estate has a long and illustrious history, and the timeline on each bottle reflects this, starting with the Roman encampments on the banks of the river Nith and ending with the present-day ownership of the estate by the Landale family.

The casks were matured within Claxton’s traditional ‘dunnage’ warehouse and have been selected to represent the outstanding flavour profiles of the prestigious coastal whisky distilleries.  Only 100 bottles have been drawn from each cask, reflecting the premium nature and rarity of the spirit.

Claxton’s Managing Director: “This series, much like the one before, has been a true labour of love as I have sought out the finest casks from some of the most famous Scottish whisky distilleries. It has taken years of careful selection to find the right five casks to follow-up the inaugural release that was a huge success and sold out within days of release.”

The single malt Scotch whiskies selected are:

• 33 year old Distilled at Bunnahabhain Distillery
• 30 year old Distilled at Bowmore Distillery
• 30 year old Distilled at Springbank Distillery
• 30 year old Distilled at Clynelish Distillery
• 35 year old Distilled at Highland Park Distillery

These will be available for general retail on 30^th October 2024. More details of the whiskies are provided below.

Additional information on each Whisky:

33 year old Bunnahabhain

Bunnhabhain Distillery sits apart from its Islay counterparts and is known for producing an unpeated but distinctively full-bodied whisky. Bottled at 33 years old, this long matured Bunnahabhain is full of that hallmark complexity and character.

The etching on the bottle depicts the Roman Fort which once stood on the banks of the river Nith. In 80AD, a large Roman Fort was built on the banks of the river Nith within the boundaries of what is now the Dalswinton Estate. It is understood to have housed over 2,000 Roman infantry and cavalry and to be one of the most northerly Roman outposts of its kind.

Nose: Sweet tobacco smoke. Marzipan with sweet spices. Apple pie.

Palate: Sweet and soft sherry with a mild smoke, oak and spice. Full-bodied and robust.

Finish: Cinnamon, oak and soft sherry. A long aftertaste of fruit pie.

30 year old Bowmore 

This 30 year old Bowmore is a shining example of an Islay distillery – and one that is situated adjacent to the coast. Sweet peat, mingled with coastal seaweed and bursting with tropical fruits make for an incredible dram.

This decanter depicts when Patrick Miller (owner of the Dalswinton Estate) and Robert Burns first met in 1786. Eventually, this led to Burns moving locally, taking up tenancy at Ellisland Farm with Miller as his landlord.

Nose: Heavy BBQ notes. Sweet peaty notes. Coastal – cooked seaweed.

Palate: Tropical fruit and peat mingle with a sugary-sweetness and soft oak.

Finish: Slightly menthol with a long lingering soft smokiness in the aftertaste. 

30 year old Springbank 

From one of the most revered coastal distilleries in Scotland, this bottling of Springbank has all of the complexity that you would expect from a 30 year old. Sweet, yet spicy with tropical fruits and bubble gum. An incredible dram from start to finish.

This decanter depicts Patrick Millar’s steam engine. In 1788, the first steamboat in Britain set sail across Dalswinton Loch. The project, funded by Patrick Millar, then owner of the Dalswinton Estate, was a great success and officially the first steam-propelled boat journey in the United Kingdom.

Nose: Icing sugar, cannoli, nutmeg and Dunnage warehouse. Custard and gentle smoke.

Palate: Softly sweet and spicy at first. Green apples, oaky and bittersweet. Subtle peat.

Finish: A long and changing finish with oak, fruit, bubble gum and vanilla. Rocky minerality. 

30 year old Clynelish 

Situated on the North East coast of Scotland, Clynelish Distillery is world-renowned for creating a truly unique rich and waxy distillate. This whisky is true to that form, with a distinctive waxy profile still present after 30 years of maturation while bursting with fresh stone fruits.

This decanter is linked to John “The Red” Comyn. It is recorded in local folklore that, in 1306, John “The Red” Comyn sunk his treasure in Comyn’s Pool on the Dalswinton Estate just before meeting his death during a confrontation with Robert the Bruce, the future King of Scotland.

Nose: Tablet and vanilla fudge. Waxed hard fruits. Vanilla pods.

Palate: Sweet and herbal with a waxy-fruitiness, stone fruits and a mild oakiness.

Finish: Hint of tobacco, fresh bread and a softly spicy aftertaste.

35 year old Highland Park

Highland Park is an iconic Orcadian distillery producing a distinctive heather-infused smoky style of whisky. This 35 year old cask is no different: rich, malty, and spicy, with a sweet heather smoke.

In 1919, the Landale family purchased the Dalswinton Estate and have been residents and guardians ever since. Over the last 100 years, they have developed the manor house, estate buildings and surrounding land into the illustrious rural estate it is today. This decanter depicts the Landale’s version of the Dalswinton Estate.

Nose: Rich fruits; cooked apples, pears, prunes. Sweet tobacco with a hint of peat.

Palate: Malty and rich with soft spices and oak. Fresh melon and sweet sherry notes.

Finish: More rich fruit with heather peat and an oaky-spice aftertaste.

New partnership concludes a quartet of investments in the Sherry-seasoned oak cask supply chain

The Macallan is pleased to announce that it has agreed to form a partnership with the owners of three businesses renowned for the production of Spanish Sherry seasoned oak casks, securing a sustainable supply of the highest quality European oak casks and underlining the brand’s pursuit of incomparable craftsmanship and whisky mastery.

Under the terms of the partnership, the Tevasa cooperage in Jerez and its sister businesses, Forestal Peninsular and Forestal Peninsular de Cantabria, which operate sawmills in Lugo and Cabezón de la Sal, will come together to form a new company called Tevasa Forestal Group. The Macallan will own 50% of the share capital of Tevasa Forestal Group.

The joint venture will complete a quartet of major investments over the past two years, which will give The Macallan the deepest involvement of any Scotch Whisky company in the production of the finest Sherry-seasoned casks.

Igor Boyadjian, Managing Director, The Macallan, said the partnership with Tevasa Forestal Group will further strengthen The Macallan’s Sherry cask supply chain, which is critical to the quality of the brand’s whisky.

Mr Boyadjian said: “The Macallan has always gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure that our Single Malt Scotch Whisky is matured in the finest quality Sherry-seasoned oak casks. The joint venture will complete a series of investments that will give us an unparalleled level of ownership in the production process of Sherry-seasoned casks.

“Our partnership with Tevasa Forestal Group is a significant moment for The Macallan as we continue to invest in the craft and mastery of our exceptional product. Tevasa has been a long-standing supplier, crafting the finest European oak casks from Forestal Peninsular staves in which to mature The Macallan. This partnership, along with our other investments in Jerez and Ohio, shows our commitment to the craftsmanship in our Sherry cask supply chain.

“As we celebrate The Macallan’s 200th anniversary, this further expansion of our supply chain will ensure our reputation for richness and complexity for generations to come.”

The Tevasa Forestal Group joint venture will conclude a series of previously announced investments by The Macallan in the Sherry cask supply chain:

• March 2023: acquired 50% of Grupo Estévez and their Valdespino Sherries, wines and aperitifs, vineyards and bodegas.
• September 2023: acquired the Vasyma cooperage in Jerez, which specialises in crafting American oak casks.
• September 2023: entered a joint venture with Coopers Oak, a specialist sawmill in Ohio which is a longstanding provider of American oak staves to Vasyma.

Forestal Peninsular was founded in 1958 by Miguel and Teodoro Fdez. Montes, Juan Garriga and Narciso Fdez. Prieto. It operates two sawmills in Lugo and Cantabria which source oak from forests in northern Spain and southern France and produce European oak staves for casks. It is currently led by Narciso Fdez. Iturrospe and Camilo Fdez. Alonso. The company established the Tevasa cooperage in Jerez in 1983, specialising in producing the highest quality European oak casks for the maturation of Scotch Whisky, Sherry and Brandy.

Expertise will be retained through the ongoing leadership of Narciso Fdez. Iturrospe and Camilo Fdez. Alonso and their existing management teams.

Snr Fdez. Iturrospe said everyone at Tevasa, Forestal Peninsular and Forestal Peninsular de Cantabria is delighted to be forming a joint venture with The Macallan, saying: “Tevasa and The Macallan have worked together for over 40 years sourcing and crafting the finest European oak casks to help make this incomparable whisky.

“Everyone at our cooperage in Jerez and sawmills in Galicia and Cantabria is very excited to partner with The Macallan and to contribute even more to the craftsmanship that helps the brand stand out as one of the finest spirits in the world.”

Paul Hyde, CFO of Edrington, said: “Tevasa, Forestal Peninsular and Forestal Peninsular de Cantabria have been much-valued partners of The Macallan for over four decades and thanks to the craft and skill of its people in Jerez and northern Spain they have delivered outstanding quality casks for the brand. We are looking forward to working more closely than ever as we focus on continuing the excellence and innovation that is the hallmark of The Macallan Single Malt Scotch Whisky.”

KNOB CREEK 18 YEAR OLD KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

Knob Creek® Bourbon is proud to reintroduce Knob Creek® 18 Year Old to its award winning* portfolio. Originally introduced in 2022 as the brand’s oldest release to date, the extra-aged bourbon is back for a limited time.

Aged twice as long as our flagship bourbon and bottled at 100 proof, the liquid offers a complex, yet balanced profile. Our bourbon owes its rich copper color and deep notes of caramelized oak to its extensive aging in our Kentucky rackhouses.

At 18 years, this bourbon further demonstrates how great things take time and patience, living up to Sixth Generation Master Distiller Booker Noe’s intention when he first introduced Knob Creek to the world over three decades ago. Experience the exceptional full-flavor of Knob Creek 18 Year Old for yourself.

TASTING NOTES

Knob Creek 18 Year Old is our oldest release to date, delivering flavorful notes of caramelized oak and sweet vanilla with a warm finish, best enjoyed neat or on the rocks to fully experience the complex yet balanced flavors of this full-bodied liquid.

PROOF: 100
COLOR: Rich copper tones with auburn hues
AROMA: Brown sugar and aged oak, with notes of char and caramel
TASTE: Full-bodied with notes of caramelized oak and hints of sweet vanilla and baking spices
FINISH: Warm finish with spice and slight floral and fruit notes

THE HISTORY
Knob Creek has set the standard for super-premium whiskey for three decades by crafting extraordinary full-flavored bourbon with a rich taste. Knob Creek bourbons and ryes are patiently aged to perfection in new, maximum charred American Oak barrels to impart the biggest and fullest flavor on their whiskey. No matter the expression, Knob Creek is crafted without shortcuts and embodies the pre-Prohibition style that founding distiller Booker Noe created in 1992. Since then, Knob Creek has lived up to such standards with the introduction of Knob Creek Straight Rye Whiskey in 2012, and later on, Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Rye Whiskey. In recent years, Knob Creek announced the permanent addition of Knob Creek 12 Year Old Bourbon and Knob Creek 10 Year Old Rye to its portfolio, launched three limited releases, Knob Creek 15 Year Old Bourbon, Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon and Knob Creek Bourbon x Rye, and announced the addition of an age statement to its flagship rye whiskey, Knob
Creek 7 Year Old Rye Whiskey.

AVAILABILITY & PRICE
Knob Creek 18 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey is available nationwide for a limited time at a suggested retail price of $179.

INFORMATION
For more information about Knob Creek 18 Year Old and Knob Creek’s award-winning bourbon and rye portfolios, please visit www.KnobCreek.com.

The ImpEx Collection Edition Four Debuts, Showcasing Exquisite Scottish and World Single Malt Treasures for Discerning Palates

 ImpEx Beverages is back with its latest curated round-up of unique global spirits expressions in a single-cask form designed to appeal to those seeking choices of impeccable quality.

ImpEx Beverages, a renowned global spirits importer, is known for its unparalleled ability to procure and introduce the finest rare and premium expressions to the United States. With a strong focus on Scotland’s top-tier offerings, ImpEx meticulously selects and brings to market a range of specially chosen spirits, with the pinnacle of its offerings being The ImpEx Collection.

ImpEx Beverages, led by President and Keeper of the Quaich Sam Filmus, is now proud to present Edition Four of The ImpEx Collection, consisting of four single-cask, single-malt Scotches and two single-cask, single-malt global whiskies from the far-off, worldly corners of India and New Zealand.

“We’ve been very blessed to represent some fantastic and multi-award winning brands as an importer here in the US. Edition Four of The ImpEx Collection includes very special Single Cask selections from Pōkeno and Indri as part of its World Single Malt offerings,” said Filmus. “The trust and care these brands have shown in the selection process and allowing us to bottle these under our label gives us an even greater sense of pride in their release.  In fact, The ImpEx Collection 2020 3-yo Pōkeno Amontillado Cask #20-26 received a Gold Medal and 90 points from the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition along with 93 points from Whisky Advocate in their Fall 2024 issue.”

The ImpEx Collection concept is to showcase some of the best “gems” in its Editions. These bottlings, spirits that might otherwise disappear into a blend or never be bottled at all, represent some of the rarer gems out there. They result from a meticulous cask selection process achieved by blind tasting samples and forming a tasting panel consensus-based only on flavor, quality, and unique characteristics, ensuring that each bottle is a true treasure.

“It’s never a simple or easy process to select the expressions we release in our Editions of The ImpEx Collection,” explained Filmus. “A single cask has to have the perfect recipe for us – the right appeal, the right size, the right price, and the right age are a part of it all, but the taste and quality above all else.  We call our expressions gems for a reason: they are precious to us (and to the consumers we have in mind when we select them, we hope).”

For The ImpEx Collection Edition Four, the extraordinary single-cask Scotches selected are drawn from Scotland’s prominent whisky-making regions, namely Speyside and Highland. The ImpEx Collection 2011 12 yo Royal Brackla ($120), bottled at 58% ABV, kicks things off, heralding from a Highlands distillery founded in 1812 and known as “The King’s Own Whisky” for being the first Scotch whisky ever granted a Royal Warrant. Opening aromatics of apples and melted demerara sugar set the palate for apples, pears, and a luscious lemon zest that finishes with soft, brown sugar and cake spice.

From Dailuaine, a Speyside distillery famous for being the first in Scotland with a pagoda roof, comes The ImpEx Collection 2009 14 yo Dailuaine ($140). With a bottling strength of 56.8% ABV, this single malt draws you in with essences of coconut oil and apricot on the nose. The palate is then tempted with a dance of apricot and tangerine that gives way to a finish of lingering green apple.

Further into Edition Four is The ImpEx Collection 2009 14 yo Strathmill ($140), crafted in the Speyside region at a Victorian-era whisky-making operation. The flavor profile of this expression is decadent in consideration – red apple, cinnamon, and sugar plum on the nose, yielding as you take a sip to baseball card bubble gum, pear, and rose petals. The finish is lasting and rich in flavor.

The ImpEx Collection 2011 12 yo Benrinnes ($120) is also a treat, drawing first breath in a cask from a Speyside distillery known for rich, full-bodied expressions. This 12-year-old, sporting a 58.9% ABV, draws one in with cherries and rosemary on the nose, followed by the sip revealing the addition of candle wax and red fruit. The finish here is an emerging blood orange that brings a fresh citrus note.

On the global whisky stage, The ImpEx Collection Edition Four delivers two distilleries that are not as likely known but still very intriguing. First off, from India comes The ImpEx Collection 2015 7 yo Indri ($175 – 53.5% ABV). Indri has been making waves on the global stage with its award-winning expressions, and ImpEx found itself a gem of an ex-wine cask bottling that drops with sweet figs and plums on the nose, leading to a palate wanting for this whisky’s fruit predominance and sweetness. It concludes with touches of vanilla and grapes.

New Zealand whisky is represented well by The ImpEx Collection 2020 3 yo Pōkeno ($125), clocking in at 58.5% ABV and finding its age in an Amontillado Sherry Cask. Pōkeno brings a water source protected by volcanic hills in a misty valley to this expression. With this whisky comes ripe peaches and honey on the nose, leading to marzipan and cashew nuts on the palate and a long, rich finish.

All of The ImpEx Collection Edition Four expressions will be available starting October 16th, 2024, when excited consumers can begin to look for these fantastic expressions in specialty retailers across the US.  For more information on these beautiful gems, including where to buy them, please email ImpEx Beverages at Office@ImpExBev.com for an individual and personalized response.

ABOUT THE IMPEX COLLECTION EDITION FOUR 

The ImpEx Collection 2011 12 yo Royal Brackla Single Cask #110000245 (58% abv. RRP $120 – 282 bottles total) 

Nose: Traditional Scrumpy cider springs out of the glass with apples and melted demerara sugar.  A background of cinnamon and nutmeg spice builds and compliments the freshness

Palate: Rich and Creamy with apples and pears.  A bright, lemon zest note creates a zingy feel and is enhanced by a delicate black pepper spice.  With time, the orchard fruits are balanced with walnut skins.

Finish: The nuttiness from the spirit lingers and carries soft, brown sugar and cake spice. 

The ImpEx Collection 2009 14 yo Dailuaine Single Cask #312079 (56.8% abv. RRP $140 – 250 bottles total) 

Nose: Coconut oil, tangerine, apricot, vanilla, and honeysuckle combine in a sweet perfume.

Palate: Apricot and tangerine dance together with a notable warmth and a touch of fennel. Waxy feel.

Finish: Apricot gives way to green apple lingering on the tongue and bringing you back for a second sip. 

The ImpEx Collection 2009 14 yo Strathmill Single Cask #802952 (57.5% abv. RRP $140 – 272 bottles total) 

Nose: Red apple, cinnamon, pear, star fruit, sugar plum, and baseball card bubble gum.

Palate: Baseball card bubble gum and pear notes let you know they are there as they are joined by touches of fresh barley, wax, and rose petals.

Finish: The palate extends bringing a finish that is lasting and rich in flavor. 

The ImpEx Collection 2011 12 yo Benrinnes Single Cask #306532 (58.9% abv. RRP $120 – 273 bottles total) 

Nose: Cherries, rosemary

Palate: Cherries and rosemary continue with the addition of candle wax and red fruits. Chewy

Finish: Blood orange emerges bringing a fresh citrus note to round out the experience. 

The ImpEx Collection 2020 3 yo Pōkeno Amontillado Cask #20-26 (58.5% abv RRP $125 – 330 bottles total) 

Nose: Ripe peaches, orange and pear drops, with hints of honey and almonds

Mouth: Peach and Orange liqueur combine with marzipan and cashew nuts, and a hint of dried spice

Finish: Long and rich 

The ImpEx Collection 2015 7 yo Indri ex-Wine Cask #1746 (53.5% abv RRP $175 – 175 bottles total) 

Nose: Sweet and elegant with hints of figs, plums, and raisins.

Palate: Well balanced and long lasting with fruit predominance and sweetness.

Finish: Complex with touches of vanilla and grapes.

ABOUT THE IMPEX COLLECTION

The ImpEx Collection is a labor of love derived from the heart of Sam Filmus, President and Managing Director of ImpEx Beverages. He, along with his business partner Chris Uhde, has spent a significant amount of time and passion selecting the casks that go into each bottle of The ImpEx Collection that you find on the shelf. After over 40 years of combined industry experience, you can tell that each cask is unique and special, offering the best that different categories have to offer.

Whether you find yourself looking for a dram of rare and unique whisky or you feel you want a special and select rum or mezcal, you can be sure that each bottle of The ImpEx Collection will take your passion for a spirit to new heights. The high expectations for quality and taste that Sam and Chris possess can be found in each sip of delicious juice. While we unveil the offerings from The ImpEx Collection, we hope you will find the taste and style that suits you best.

ABOUT IMPEX BEVERAGES

In 2008, a new chapter began for Sam Filmus after years in the business captaining JVS Imports. With ImpEx Beverages, his vision was to import premium and rare Spirits from around the world, with a special emphasis on the best of what Scotland has to offer. In 2018, Chris Uhde joined Sam as his business partner in ImpEx Beverages, and together, they have expanded the portfolio and vision for ImpEx. Now, ImpEx boasts an impressive portfolio, including some of the most notable small to medium-sized distilleries and independent bottlers. ImpEx Beverages imports Whisky, Gin, Rum, and Mezcal from Scotland, Japan, Israel, Mexico, England, the Caribbean, India and New Zealand, with future anticipated additions from unexpected destinations. We also feature a fine line of Liqueurs and Cordials produced in the US.

EWAN MCGREGOR RAISES £135K FOR SCOTTISH CHARITY THROUGH

WHISKY AUCTION

 CEO of CHAS, Rami Okasha and Ewan McGregor

Renowned Scottish actor Ewan McGregor has raised £135,000 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) after auctioning 150 exclusive bottles from his own personal 1998 cask of Arran Single Malt Whisky from Lochranza Distillery.

Auctioned through the world’s leading online whisky auction platform, Whisky Auctioneer, 543 bidders from 28 countries placed over 7,000 bids on “Ewan’s Cut”. The auction also saw a 160% increase in monthly registrations. The hammer price reached £119,893, further boosted by £15,107, as Whisky Auctioneer waived its seller’s commission and donated its 12.5% buyer’s commission, ensuring that the maximum possible funds reach CHAS.

Bottle #1 of “Ewan’s Cut” achieved a hammer price of £4,350, setting a new record  for the highest price ever paid for a bottle of Arran single malt at auction. This rare 26 year old Arran Single Malt, matured in an ex-Sherry Hogshead cask, is one of the oldest whiskies ever produced by the Lochranza Distillery. The cask was gifted to McGregor by the distillery in 1998, with the team also generously donating their time and expertise to bottle and prepare the whisky for auction.

The Leith Agency worked in partnership with Ewan and his brother Colin McGregor to bring “Ewan’s Cut” to life on a pro-bono basis. The bottle design and name were inspired by Ewan’s illustrious career, featuring references to his iconic roles in films like Trainspotting and Star Wars, as well as his memorable Long Way Round adventure. Each of the 150 bottle labels reads like a mini film script, with no two labels alike.

Ewan McGregor said:

“What a total! I just want to thank each and every one of our partners for putting the time, effort and work into this endeavour.

CHAS has always been very close to my heart, and I am so proud that we were all able to raise such a sum for them. I know it’s the children they help and their families who will benefit a lot from this – so thank you very much to everyone involved and to those that placed generous bids in the auction.” 

Rami Okasha, CEO at CHAS said:

“We are very grateful to Ewan McGregor, a long-standing supporter and friend of CHAS, for kindly choosing to donate all the proceeds from this special auction to CHAS so we can continue to support children with life-shortening conditions and their families, bringing us closer to our founding mission of reaching every child and family that needs our help. 

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in this exciting auction that enabled so much to be raised for CHAS. I would also like to express our sincere thanks to Isle of Arran Distillers, to Whisky Auctioneer and to the Leith Agency.

“Three children die each week in Scotland from an incurable condition. We can only be there for families with the support of kind donations like this. CHAS provides unwavering care to children who may die young and their families, at every step on this hardest of journeys. Proceeds received from this auction make a huge difference to children and families helping us to reach every family across Scotland who needs our help and to keep the joy alive even in the face of death.”

Euan Mitchell, Managing Director at Isle of Arran Distillers added:

“We are absolutely delighted that the auction of ‘Ewan’s Cut’ has successfully raised an incredible £135,000 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS). This project has been a journey close to our hearts since Ewan McGregor first joined us at Lochranza Distillery back in 1998. To see his private cask of Arran Single Malt contribute to such a worthy cause is truly special.

It has been a privilege to collaborate with Ewan, Whisky Auctioneer, and the Leith Agency to bring this unique whisky to life, and we are deeply grateful for the support and generosity from everyone involved. The funds raised will make a significant difference in supporting the vital work of CHAS, helping families during their most challenging times.”

Joe Wilson, Head Curator and Spirits Specialist at Whisky Auctioneer said:

“This is an outstanding result for everyone involved but most importantly, the amount of funds raised for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) will have a lasting positive impact on so many children and families in Scotland.

“It’s always a privilege to work together on partnerships like this where we can not only offer a chance for people to bid on very special bottles of whisky, but also really help to make a difference to people’s lives.”

Richard Marsham, CEO of Leith Agency said:

“Leith are delighted to have been part of the Ewan’s Cut project in conjunction with Ewan McGregor and CHAS. It’s fantastic to see this level of money raised for such a great cause and that our bespoke label designs really helped push the auction prizes up with each bottle being a unique collector’s item.  And a big shout out to our friends at Isle of Arran Distillers and Whisky Auctioneer for making the whole project possible.”

To find out more about Whisky Auctioneer, please visit www.whiskyauctioneer.com

To find out more about Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), please visit https://www.chas.org.uk/

To find out more about Isle of Arran Distillers, please visit https://www.arranwhisky.com/

To find out more about Leith Agency, please visit https://leith.co.uk/

About CHAS

Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) provides unwavering care to children who may die young and their families, at every step on this hardest of journeys.

• Our Unwavering Care 2024-2028 Strategy sets out how no family ever has to face the death of their child alone, with CHAS providing support at each critical stage of their palliative care journey – from the moment of a child’s diagnosis, to helping the child live well and by supporting the family after a child’s death.
• The Strategy was developed following in-depth consultation and feedback from families and stakeholders.
• CHAS is there to help every family member emotionally, clinically, and practically and provide integrated palliative and end of life care as well as respite care for the whole family in our two hospices, Rachel House in Kinross and Robin House in Balloch.
• Our outreach team operates in every local authority area – providing highly skilled nursing care for children in their own homes (often in partnership with local teams), as well as a full family support service. This includes social work, income maximisation, energy advice, spiritual and bereavement support, transition to adult services for 16 – 21s, and therapeutic play.
• There is a joint CHAS/ NHS specialist team in every children’s hospital in Scotland. The only specialist Paediatric Palliative Medicine posts in Scotland are funded by CHAS. Our Diana Children’s Nurses provide specialist support alongside the NHS in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen.
• We are there at the end of life, supporting children to die with dignity, in accordance with their and their parents’ wishes and we also help in the difficult days after a child dies with ongoing bereavement support.
• The wonderful letters which form our logo are created by the children and families that use our services.
• Follow CHAS on Twitter and Instagram: @supportCHAS, or like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/supportCHAS

About Leith Agency

The Leith Agency is an award-winning strategic and creative agency based in Edinburgh and Manchester with over 130 staff members. The agency was founded in 1984 and works with a number of global clients including The Macallan, Famous Grouse, AG Barr and The Scottish Government. 

About Isle of Arran Distillers

Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd is an independently owned producer of Single Malt Whisky on the Isle of Arran, with two distilleries situated at either end of the island.

Arran Single Malt is produced at Lochranza Distillery which was established at the north-west tip of the Isle of Arran in the village of Lochranza in 1995.  The site was carefully chosen for the quality of its water source, Loch na Davie, which is filtered through six waterfalls before it reaches the distillery in the foothills of the village.  Lochranza will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2025.

Their second distillery opened at Lagg, at the south end of the island, in 2019 and produces the heavily peated Lagg Single Malt.

As one of the very first of a new wave of distilleries opening in the early 1990s, Lochranza Distillery has remained independent since day one, under the care of a dedicated small team of passionate whisky people.  Arran Single Malt is a mark of quality that whisky lovers respect and trust. The pioneering spirit of this independent team has ensured that this small Scottish island and its whisky is an important and globally respected part of the whisky industry.

About Whisky Auctioneer

Whisky Auctioneer is the global market leader and trusted authority on the buying and selling of whisky and spirits at auction. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Perth, Scotland, Whisky Auctioneer utilises its expertise and knowledge combined with its auction platform to increase interest and passion in the whisky and spirits community. The business currently sees over 150,000 bids per month and has conducted deliveries to 74 countries across the globe.

The central Scotland headquarter’s success paved the way for international expansion with secondary offices now located in central London and the Netherlands.

Whisky Auctioneer endeavours to make the secondary market more accessible for buyers and sellers of any background and demographic, wherever in the world they are based. Its monthly global auctions feature the most comprehensive selection of old, rare and collectible whiskies and spirits online, and are unmatched in volume, variety of bottles offered and prices achieved. Alongside an unrivalled selection of rare Scotch whisky and Irish Whiskey, Whisky Auctioneer has also established the business as the market-leading specialist in presenting world whiskies for sale; from rare American whiskey and bourbon to iconic Japanese whiskies.

In February 2021, the online auction house made history during the iconic sale of The Perfect Collection, when a bottle of The Macallan 1926 Fine and Rare 60 Year Old sold for a hammer price of £1 million. This was the first time a single bottle of whisky has sold at an online-only auction for one million pounds.

Tamnavulin, the world’s fastest-growing single malt, unveils Port Cask Edition

The Single Malt known for its signature Speyside flavour and double cask maturation announces a new addition to its range

Tamnavulin Distillery, celebrated for its quintessential Speyside character and distinctive double cask maturation, is adding a Port Cask Edition to its core range.

As with every expression from Tamnavulin, the whisky undergoes a meticulous ageing process in two distinct casks, to create a whisky that is irresistibly sweet, velvety smooth, and teeming with complex flavours.

The journey of this remarkable new whisky begins in the heart of Speyside, where Tamnavulin’s new make spirit develops vibrant notes of ripe orchard fruits. The first maturation in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels crafts a rich and layered foundation, imparting delicate flavours of sweet biscuit, creamy vanilla, and subtle hints of apple and pear.

The whisky is then masterfully finished in a second cask, which has already led a life nurturing a fine Tawny Port wine. These casks have been carefully selected from Portugal’s celebrated Douro Valley, imparting a rich sweetness to the whisky through the cask over time as the spirit matures. The result is an accessible yet opulent and sophisticated expression that embodies the craftsmanship of Tamnavulin.

Building on the success of its acclaimed Wine Cask Editions, Tamnavulin’s master whisky makers, led by Kirsty Hodge, sought to find a partner to complement and elevate the characteristics of the distillery, leading them to the home of Port. The result? A breathtaking whisky that delivers a sensationally balanced expression with intricate layers of rich fruit.

Visually arresting with its deep mahogany hue, this whisky captivates from the very first pour. The nose reveals ripe red berries, plums, and dark chocolate, delicately layered with notes of rose syrup, sweet biscuit, and spiced orange. On the palate, it unfolds into a rich medley of honeyed poached pears, berry compote, dried fruits, and creamy caramel, unveiling a nutty finish.

This versatile whisky shines when savoured neat as well as elevating classic cocktails, or pair with aged Gouda cheese for an indulgent treat.

Tamnavulin Port Cask (ABV 40%) is now available in Tesco and Sainsbury’s and will launching in Asda from 17^th October with an RSP of £35.

About Tamnavulin:

Tamnavulin, named after the Gaelic term for ‘Mill on the Hill,’ draws its identity from the 16th-century woollen mill that once graced its historic site. It stands as the embodiment of the quintessential Speyside malt. Established in 1966 in the tranquil village of Tamnavulin, Scotland, the distillery’s journey has been one of both tradition and revival. Though the distillery closed its doors in 1995, it was brought back to life and meticulously restored in 2007. Since then, Tamnavulin has been dedicated to crafting exceptional single malt whisky that captures the true essence of Speyside—sweet, smooth, and fruity.

Nestled in the heart of Speyside, a region renowned for housing over half of Scotland’s malt whisky distilleries, Tamnavulin benefits from an environment perfectly suited for whisky production. Speyside’s unique microclimate, with its temperate conditions, provides the ideal setting for whisky maturation, while the region’s plentiful water sources contribute to the whisky’s purity and character. Inspired by this extraordinary location, Tamnavulin expertly marries time-honoured distilling traditions with cutting-edge techniques to craft its signature double cask matured Speyside malt—offering a single malt experience with twice the flavour and depth.

Tamnavulin Port Cask Edition

ABV: 40%

Cask: American Oak Barrels and Tawny Port Casks

Available in the UK and Sweden in 70cl format from August

RSP: £35 / 329 kr.

Colour: Deep Mahogany

Nose: Ripe red berries, plums, dark chocolate, rose syrup, sweet biscuit and spiced orange.

Taste: Sumptuous notes of honeyed poached pears, berry compote, dried fruits and creamy caramel with a nutty finish

Hidden Barn Bourbon’s “23B” Whiskey Wins Best Small Batch Bourbon, Best of Class at Top Shelf Awards Gala

SPARTA, KY (Oct. 9, 2024) –Hidden Barn Bourbon’s Series 1, Batch 23B has won Best of Class in the Small Batch Bourbon Up to 5 Years category at the Top Shelf Awards Gala, held Oct. 4, 2024.  The Top Shelf Awards are run by The Tasting Alliance, under which prestigious awards such as the San Francisco World Spirits Competition are held.

Hidden Barn Bourbon Batch 23B was distilled at Neeley Family Distillery and blended by Jackie Zykan. Batch 23B is a blend of 20 barrels aged five years old using Neeley’s flagship mashbill of 70 percent corn, 20 percent rye and 10 percent malted barley.  The judges described 23B as “a perfectly balanced bourbon” and awarded it a score of 98 points at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, held earlier in 2024.  Finalists were voted on again to choose Best in Class, and Hidden Barn 23B took the top spot, beating out four other competitors.

Master Distiller Royce Neeley and Hidden Barn Partner Nate Winegar were on hand to receive the award.  “The small batch bourbon category is very crowded, especially in the 5 years and under age range.  To have our 23B win Best of Class over all the other entrants is such an honor and a testament to Jackie (Zykan’s) blending talent,” said Royce Neeley.

Like all Neeley Family Distillery distillates, this bourbon was double pot distilled after fermenting with wild-crafted Appalachian yeast, a practice of the Neeley Family dating back generations.  Batch 23B was bottled at cask strength at 110.1 proof with only sediment filtration.

Suggested retail pricing for the Hidden Barn Series 1, 23B is $74.99. It is available at Neeley Family Distillery gift shop, online and at select retail stores in Kentucky, Indiana, Georgia, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

About Hidden Barn Bourbon

Hidden Barn’s name harkens back to the local communities who painted their barns black in solidarity with distillers during Prohibition.  This sense of community is continued today through the passion for quality whiskey and camaraderie shared by its three partners, Jackie Zykan, Royce Neeley and Nate Winegar.  Together, the three friends bring their own strengths – a superior palate, distilling prowess, and a powerhouse connector to form Hidden Barn Bourbon.  Previous Hidden Barn Series have earned Double Golds at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023 and 2024 and Best Small Batch, 1st Place at the 2023 New Orleans Bourbon Festival.  Hidden Barn Bourbon is owned by Neeley Family Distillery.   The brand is available online and in select states. For more information visit hiddenbarnwhiskey.com

About The Tasting Alliance

The Tasting Alliance Competitions are considered the most influential in the spirits industry and its award programs include the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, New York World Wine & Spirits Competition and the Singapore World Spirits Competition.  Each entry is judged double blind by a panel of spirits experts.    The medals are a testament to the hard work of the spirits industry’s distillers and producers and are a universally recognized indicator of exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

NEW Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength 11YR

Today, we celebrate the launch of the 2024 edition of Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength 11YR!  This unfiltered, cask-strength American rye delivers a distinct and rich liquid, full of balanced rye spice flavor complimented by notes of vanilla, caramel, and charred oak complexity. It was distilled and barreled in the autumn season of 2012 and laid down in 4 distinct warehouses in Clermont Kentucky to ensure incredible consistency and gentle flavor mellowing over time.​

 TASTING NOTES

Non-Chill Filtered for a more robust flavor

Color – Golden Tawny

Aroma –  Bold, vanilla underpinned with hints of tobacco spice

Taste – Allspice, sweet vanilla and caramel, charred oak

Finish – Pleasant, Full bodied with lingering notes of rye

Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength 11YR is 107.4 proof with an SRP of $99.99 for a 750mL bottle.

BENROMACH DISTILLERY RELEASES UNPEATED SINGLE MALT AS ULTIMATE CONTRAST TO ITS CORE RANGE

 The latest single malt expression from Benromach Distillery challenges drinkers to compare an unpeated variant, released as part of its Contrasts range, to the whiskies in its core range which contain its signature flavour profile – with a subtle wisp of smoke.

Benromach Contrasts Unpeated has been handcrafted using the same traditional methods by the distillery’s skilled team of distillers. But its unpeated nature provides the ultimate contrast and begs the question: ‘which do you prefer?’

The new Contrasts release features unpeated spirit matured for nine years in a mix of bourbon and Sherry casks. It provides sweet and floral aromas on the nose, followed by a fruity palate with underlying liquorice, oak and herbal influences. A medium finish offers fresh menthol and a touch of pepper.

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, said: “With our Contrasts range, we aim to develop whiskies that showcase the handmade skills of our distillers – and this is no exception. But this particular unpeated release provides the very definition of a contrast – so we’d love to hear what whisky drinkers think.”

With an ABV strength of 46%, the whisky is currently available for purchase via independent whisky specialists at a recommended retail price of £60.

For more information on Benromach Distillery or Benromach Contrasts Unpeated, please visit: www.benromach.com

Tasting Notes: 

Benromach Contrasts Unpeated

• RRP: £60
• ABV: 46%
• Nose: Sweet with vanilla fudge, malted biscuit and spiced baked apple. Fresh lime, floral notes and ginger intertwine.
• Taste: Candied pineapple gives way to red apple, raspberry and raisin. Underlying sweet liquorice and oak lead to subtle herbal influences.
• Finish: Medium finish offering fresh menthol and a touch of pepper.

About Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life by owners Gordon & MacPhail in 1993.

At Benromach, the team keep things simple: a handful of distillers relying entirely on their expertise and senses to make the finest handmade whisky.

Their processes honour the knowledge and experience used to make Speyside whiskies decades ago, because at Benromach they believe making whisky by hand delivers genuine character.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

About Gordon & MacPhail

Gordon & MacPhail is a family-owned premium spirits company based in Elgin, Scotland. Owner of Scotch whisky distilleries, Benromach and The Cairn, Gordon & MacPhail is also a Scotch whisky maturation expert, and the owner of Scottish Gin brand, Red Door.