BALLANTINE’S UNVEILS 2013 GOLF LIMITED EDITION PACKS  

Ballantine’s, the No 2 Ultra-Premium and Prestige Scotch whisky range in Asia and the No 1 in Global Travel Retail, is marking the sixth year of its Ballantine’s Championship sponsorship with the launch of a brand new Ballantine’s Golf Limited Edition Pack for its 17 and 21 Year Old blends.

The new editions represent the first time in the history of Ballantine’s Golf Limited Editions that the bottles have been redesigned. Reinforcing the shared values at the heart of Ballantine’s commitment to golf and highlighting the brand’s association with the sport, dating back to 1960, the new packaging bears the striking symbolic image of a golfer and Ballantine’s iconic ‘B’.

The brand’s premium image is enhanced through specific cues, such as the gold foiling of the logo and text printed directly onto the glass and the rigid box structure, which differentiates the pack from the standard carton. In another nod to the golfing world, the 17 Year Old expression is presented in green, while the cream colour of Ballantine’s 21 Year Old uplifts the prestige credentials of the brand.

The new pack is available now, ahead of this year’s Ballantine’s Championship – one of Asia’s most prestigious golfing events – which takes place in South Korea from 25^th – 28^th April 2013*. Since the inaugural event in 2008, the Ballantine’s Championship has developed its own unique traditions, such as the Championship Blend and Golf Limited Edition packs, which enhance its iconic credentials, differentiate it from other golf events and give consumers the opportunity to bring home the spirit of the event.

Golf’s origins can be traced back to the 15th century on the East Coast of Scotland. Just a short distance away in Edinburgh, George Ballantine founded a small grocery business in 1827 to cater for the needs of an exclusive clientele. Since their birth, the legacies of Ballantine’s and golf have left a lasting impression around the world. The Ballantine’s Championship embodies their shared heritage and values: excellence, craftsmanship and devotion to perfection, style and flair.

Peter Moore, Ballantine’s International Brand Director, says: “We are delighted to launch the Ballantine’s Golf Limited Edition packs for 2013, the sixth year of our Ballantine’s Championship sponsorship. We are very proud of our links to golf and to be a part of such a prestigious tournament once again. The consistently outstanding quality of Ballantine’s combined with our golf associations have clearly left a favourable impression on our customers, so we are confident that these special limited editions will be well received by whisky collectors and golf fans around the world.”

The Ballantine’s Golf Limited Edition packs are available in limited quantities with prices varying across different markets. In Travel Retail Asia Duty Free there is an RRP of $75 USD for the 17 Year Old edition, and the 21 Year Old edition will retail from RRP $123 USD.

*The sixth Ballantine’s Championship will take place from 25^th – 28^th April 2013 at the Blackstone Golf Club in Icheon, South Korea. More information can be found at www.ballantineschampionship.com.

Notes: 

About Ballantine’s

Ballantine’s is the No 2 ultra-premium Scotch whisky in Asia, No 1 Scotch whisky inEuropeand the range sells over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 120 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by the latest in a tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827.

About Chivas Brothers

Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits.  Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.

In July 2010 Chivas Brothers launched The Age Matters campaign to help consumers understand the importance of Scotch whisky age statements. 

For further information, please visit http://www.chivasbrothers.com/

GLENGOYNE GOES GREAT GUNS FOR HELP FOR HEROES

Military charity Help for Heroes is in dram fine spirits following a significant donation of £31,000 from Ian Macleod Distillers, owners of Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Glengoyne raised the money through the 2013 Glengoyne Auld Enemy Dinner at The London Dorchester on the eve of the world’s oldest international rugby fixture, the Calcutta Cup on 1 February 2013. Attended by a host of sporting legends, internationalists and other celebrities including Martin Johnson, Andy Nicol, Jill Douglas, John Inverdale and Olympic canoeist David Florence, the funds were generated through a silent auction and ticket sales.

Neil Boyd, UK Commercial Director and Alan Wardrop, UK Sales Manager for Ian Macleod Distillers presented the cheque at the One o’Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle to: Combat Lance Corporal James Kitching, Sergeant Alistair Murray and Bombardier Allison Jones – all stationed at Edinburgh Garrison at the Castle – on behalf of Help For Heroes.

Help for Heroes will donate the money raised to the HQ Hereford Garrison Clocktower Fund, a charity that supports servicemen and servicewoman through the provision of social, sporting and other facilities.

This brings the total amount of funds raised for the charity by Glengoyne to just over £46,000 in a year.

Neil Boyd said: “Glengoyne is honoured to be presenting this cheque to Help for Heroes, a worthwhile charity helping those who have been wounded in Britain’s conflicts. Glengoyne recognises the passion and enthusiasm that comes through sporting events and we look forward to hosting the Glengoyne Golf Day and Gala Dinner on 30 August 2013, Fairmont St Andrews once again raising money for Help for Heroes. We are extremely proud to support them.”

Colonel Phil Bates Edinburgh Garrison Commander said: “Glengoyne’s continued fundraising is invaluable and we are delighted at the significant amount raised. 
The money will help transform lives of those that have been wounded in service and we cannot thank them enough.”

Tickets are available now for the Glengoyne Golf Day and Gala Dinner, in support of The Soldiers’ Charity, RAF Benevolent Fund, Royal Navy, Royal Marines Charity and Help for Heroes, however places are limited. For more information please visit http://www.woundedinserviceevents.co.uk/cgblog/1/28/Glengoyne-Golf-Day-and-Gala-Dinner.

Notes:

• For further details on the Glengoyne Golf Day and to book, please contact Tim Grantham on 07843 051620 or e-mail tim@woundedinserviceevents.co.uk. The cost for a team of four is £995 and includes: a team kit courtesy of Ian Poulter’s stylish clothing brand, IJP Design, breakfast, 18 holes of golf on the Kittocks Course with on-course competitions and live scoring technology, a wee nip at the Glengoyne Halfway House, superb goody bag packed with gifts.
• For an evening of glitz and glamour book a table at the Glengoyne Golf Day Gala Dinner. Tables of ten are now available at £1,150 or individual bookings are accepted at £150 per person.

Jim Beam Releases Limited-Edition “Distiller’s Masterpiece” Bourbon Just in Time for the Races

For many, the first Saturday in May is a rare opportunity to watch the most elite horses in the racing industry. But this year, it represents another rare opportunity – a chance for whiskey connoisseurs to get their hands on a limited-edition release from Jim Beam.

Today, Beam Inc. [NYSE:BEAM], a global leader in premium spirits, and Jim Beam® Bourbon, the world’s No. 1 bourbon, announced its release of Jim Beam® Distiller’s Masterpiece, an extra-aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey barrel finished in Pedro Ximénez (PX)  sherry casks.

“My family has been making bourbon in Kentucky since 1795,” said seventh-generation Master Distiller and Jim Beam’s great-grandson Fred Noe. “This is a great time to celebrate another Kentucky icon – horseracing – with the release of some of our most exclusive liquid. The catch is that you’ve got to come out to Kentucky and see us to get a bottle.”

Bourbon At Its Best

This bourbon expression from Jim Beam is the most exclusive, highest quality offering within the Beam family. Only available at the Jim Beam American Stillhouse in Clermont, Ky., it is:

• Extra-aged in the optimal rack-house position, determined by Master Distiller, Fred Noe
• Finished in PX sherry casks, adding a dynamic to its taste that other bourbons can’t offer
• Smooth, rich, full-bodied and mature
• Packaged in a luxury wooden case
• 100-proof and priced at $199.99

Jim Beam’s American Stillhouse

The first stop on the Kentucky bourbon trail, Jim Beam’s Kentucky distillery is nestled in the rolling foothills of Clermont, Ky., just 30 minutes from Louisville. Visitors get an up-close and personal look at how the world’s finest bourbon is crafted, aged and perfected as they learn all there is to know about this classic spirit. Visit www.americanstillhouse.com to plan a visit and pick up a bottle of Distiller’s Masterpiece.

For more information on Jim Beam’s world-leading bourbon portfolio and latest innovations – including Jacob’s Ghost™, Devil’s Cut®, Red Stag by Jim Beam® and the upcoming Signature Craft product line – please visit www.JimBeam.com, www.Facebook.com/JimBeam or @JimBeamOfficial.

BLACK BOTTLE TAKES DOUBLE GOLD AT WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION  

Black Bottle, the iconic and distinctive whisky, has lived up to its bold, inability to be ignored reputation by taking double gold for the second consecutive year at the 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Capturing the very essence of Islay, Black Bottle is the only blended Scotch whisky to include all the renowned single malts from the Isle of Islay, the world-famous whisky producing island, balanced by the finest Highland, Lowland and Speyside malt and grain whiskies.  With its bold taste Black Bottle is one of the most unique whiskies around as there are very few, if any, that come close in terms of style and taste profile. The whisky holds a fresh and fruity nose with a hint of peat that leads to a full yet slight sweet palate and a delightful smoky flavour. The finish is warm and long with the unmistakable smoky, Islay character.

Black Bottle’s unique taste owes its character and heart to the innovation and skill of Gordon Graham, its original master blender. Graham was a tea merchant by profession and he used his tea blending knowledge to blend whiskies in the late 19^th century. This particular blend, which he marketed in opaque black bottles imported from Germany, in time became the whisky of choice of the locals of Aberdeen. The outbreak of the First World War in 1914 forced the company to source new bottles and since that date Black Bottle has been packaged in a green glass bottle, retaining the distinctive pot-still shape.

JAKE BUGG TO JOIN THE BILL FOR BUSHMILLS LIVE 2013 

SONS AND LOVERS, FOY VANCE, IAIN ARCHER, WILLY MASON AND BEAR’S DEN also set to join JAKE BUGG and previously confirmed headliners OF MONSTERS AND MEN at the only music festival in an Irish whiskey distillery

Bushmills Village: May 2013: Breakthrough act of the year, British singer-songwriter Jake Bugg has today been added to the bill for Bushmills Live 2013, alongside headliners Of Monsters and Men. Troubadour Jake Bugg will perform for an audience of just 500 at Bushmills Live in June, ahead of taking to the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury this summer.

Jake will be in good company at the festival, playing alongside Sons and Lovers, who have just finished touring the UK with Ellie Goulding and US artists, One Republic; Willy Mason and Bear’s Den, who have both toured heavily with Mumford & Sons earlier this year; and friends of the festival and successful Northern Irish singer songwriters, Iain Archer and Foy Vance.

Iain and Foy are set to make a triumphant return to Bushmills Live following electric performances in 2012. Since playing at the festival last year Foy has toured Europe and the US with Ed Sheeran and Iain has worked with headliner Jake Bugg to co-write and produce tracks for his number one debut album, earning them an Ivor Novello Award nomination*.

With just days to go until the draw for tickets closes, Iain reveals he is looking forward to playing at the festival in the Old Bushmills Distillery: “Bushmills Live is a unique experience: the line-up could rival some of the biggest festivals but with a much smaller crowd in a really cool setting. It’s really like a festival of friends hanging out and making some great music together. I’m really looking forward to seeing Jake playing live – although we’ve written and produced together, we’ve never actually been on the same live bill so this will be a first.”

“With last year’s festival being such a smash, it was always going to be a challenge to improve on the line up – that said, I think we’ve done it. One of the goals with the festival is to offer an event that is special for fans and performers alike. With the festival circuit in the UK growing annually, it’s a real challenge to create a day that stands out. We hope that Bushmills Live will be a festival that everyone looks forward to,” commented Graham Brown, festival curator. He continued: “I’m really pleased to be part of such an event that hosts internationally-renowned acts alongside critically-acclaimed emerging artists in such a unique setting. If you haven’t entered the draw for tickets yet enter now – don’t miss out!”

Tickets cannot be bought for the 500 person event which takes place on 19^th and 20^th June 2013 in the grounds of the historic Old Bushmills Distillery on Ireland’s stunning North Coast. Instead these can be won by entering a draw on the Bushmills Irish Whiskey Facebook page – facebook.com/bushmills1608* entry closes at 23:59 on 5th May 2013. 

NOTES

Twitter: @BushmillsGlobal

Hashtag: #BushmillsLive

*Jake Bugg and Iain Archer are nominated for ‘best song musically and lyrically’ for ‘Two Fingers,’ a song they co-wrote: http://www.theivors.com/awards.htm

ABOUT THE COMPETITION:

*To win tickets to Bushmills Live or to find out more, visit facebook.com/bushmills1608. Entry closes at 23:59GMT 5th May 2013. Winners will be notified by 9th May. Terms and conditions apply.

The Facebook competition is open to people of legal purchasing age, in:

• Great Britain
• Republic of Ireland
• Northern Ireland
• Germany
• Portugal
• Russia
• USA
• Canada
• Czech Republic
• Latvia

From each, one pair of finalists will win tickets to ‘Bushmills Live’. 

Bushmills Live video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjyzNFGuRmo

To launch the festival, Bushmills commissioned some good friends who are artisans to make a 3D art installation that depicts the Bushmills Live poster using materials inspired by the handcrafted whiskey and music at the heart of the festival. The master craftsmen who cemented their friendship when creating the stage set for a hugely popular American television epic that was filmed in Belfast – used 254 casks, 250 bottle tops, 30 bottles of whiskey, five metres of AMP wiring and four guitars to handcraft the 10ft by 16ft installation artwork.

ABOUT BUSHMILLS IRISH WHISKEY

With a heritage rooted in authenticity and quality, Bushmills Irish Whiskey is produced, aged and bottled at Ireland’s oldest working distillery in the village of Bushmills in County Antrim on the far north coast of Ireland. The Old Bushmills Distillery uses 100% malt barley to make triple distilled malt whiskey, which is what creates the rich, mellow and distinct flavour that is the house style. The Bushmills portfolio includes: Bushmills Irish Whiskey; Black Bush, Bushmills 10 Year Old Single Malt, Bushmills 16 Year Old Single Malt, Bushmills 21 Year Old Single Malt, Bushmills 1608 and now Bushmills Irish Honey. 

ABOUT DIAGEO
Diageo is the world’s leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, beer and wine categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, Buchanan’s, Windsor and Bushmills whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Jose Cuervo, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, with its products sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit www.diageo.com. For Diageo’s global resource that promotes responsible drinking through the sharing of best practice tools, information and initiatives, visit www.DRINKiQ.com.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS 

About Of Monsters and Men

http://www.ofmonstersandmen.com/

Of Monsters and Men is an amiable group from Iceland whose debut album “My Head Is An Animal” is a collection of infectious folkie pop songs. With the group’s single “Little Talks”, the band (consisting of Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir, Ragnar Þórhallsson, Brynjar Leifsson, Arnar Rósenkranz Hilmarsson, Kristján Páll Kristjánsson) has become a breakout act all around the world.

After a breakout year, “My Head Is An Animal,” the band’s debut album, was officially certified platinum worldwide. Surpassing 1 million sales, the record remains a clarion call for the band’s invigorating style. The band capped off the year with “Little Talks” selling over 3.5 million singles worldwide, the album reaching Platinum status in Canada and Ireland, as well as Gold in multiple countries including Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and United States.

In 2013, Of Monsters and Men will embark on a world tour including stops in Japan, Australia, South America, UK, Europe, and heading back to North America this summer. 

About Jake Bugg

www.jakebugg.com

By now, it’s likely you will have heard of Jake Bugg following on from his support slots at two of the year’s hottest gigs: namely The Stone Roses’ miniscule secret London show at Village Underground, and a week later, Noel Gallagher’s smallest ever solo performance at Camden’s Dingwalls. Come October, the latter legend will also be taking him on the rest of his 2012 tourdates, in Europe, America and beyond.

All across the land he has been working hard, playing songs and garnering new converts wherever he goes. His headline November shows in Manchester and London have both been upgraded due to demand; the release of his debut album has been brought forward – unheard of in this day and age because people want to get their hands on it.

Age “about 14”, he started picking up his uncle’s acoustic guitar and, having learnt other people’s songs, started experimenting with his own. It didn’t take long for him to start coming up with worthwhile stuff. In fact, one of the best songs on his debut album, ‘Someplace’ dates back to this time. A beautiful melancholic ballad, it exhibits the undeniable, natural gift for melody that characterises all of Jake’s songs.

Jake only got signed about a year or so ago, but such is his prolific nature that he did not waste any time in getting down to business. 

About Willy Mason

http://www.willymason.net/

Willy Mason is a singer-songwriter from the Northeast US. His new single ‘I Got Gold’ is a standout track from new album ‘Carry On’, an album five years in the making. It comes in the wake of the critically acclaimed and gold certified debut ‘Where The Humans Eat’ which included the now classic track ‘Oxygen,’ and the progressive sound of his 2007 sophomore release ‘If The Ocean Gets Rough.’

He has recently toured in the UK and Australia and often appearing on stage with headliners and good friends Mumford & Sons.

Mason’s new single ‘I Got Gold’, produced by Dan Carey (MIA, Hot Chip and Kylie Minogue), has been receiving Radio 1, 6Music and XFM plays, and fuses Mason’s unique vocal delivery with a rhythm that lyrically draws on sentiments of hope, disillusionment, love and lost connections. 

About Sons and Lovers

http://www.sons-and-lovers.com/ 

About Bear’s Den

http://www.musicglue.com/bearsdenmusic/

Bear’s Den are London trio Andrew Davie, Joey Haynes, and Kevin Jones. The music they make is wholesome, warm, and engaging, and takes its influence from the likes of Being There era Wilco, Ryan Adams, and a wealth of both folk and alt-country reference points.

The ethos of DIY is at the heart of everything Bear’s Den have done since their inception. Charging around the UK in a van playing to any venue that would have them, picking up support tours with the likes of Of Monsters And Men, Smoke Fairies, and Matt Corby, and concluding 2012 with a support slot for Mumford & Sons at London’s O2 Arena, Bear’s Den took time out and relocated to a cottage in Wales to record their debut EP, sold only at shows last year, and went on to record this Agape EPin Norfolk with Kristoffer Harris.

‘Agape’ sets out its stall from the opening chords, and is a spellbinding example of Bear’s Den’s sound. Andrew Davie’s lyrics and voice are beautifully fragile, resonating with the clarity of a songwriter almost twice his age. Framed around the ambiguous Greek word for love, Agape is a warm, all-embracing tune that sets a tone throughout the whole 5-track record.  

About Iain Archer

http://www.iainarcher.co.uk/modules/news/

Iain Archer is an award-winning songwriter and producer, originally from Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland. He is a versatile performer who has had success in his own right and with others. He has written five successful albums under his own name, has toured extensively and has had his songs used widely on US TV shows and adverts.

He has scored a number one album and two top ten albums writing with the likes of Example, Gabrielle Aplin, Hudson Taylor and Nina Nesbitt. Additionally 2012 saw Iain working extensively with 19 year old Brit-Nominated Jake Bugg, signed to Mercury Records. Jake Bugg’s exciting eponymous debut album hit no.1 in the album charts in October, and has remained within the top 10 ever since, already passing platinum sales. He co-wrote and produced the first three Radio 1 playlisted singes, ‘Trouble Town’, ‘Lightning Bolt’ and ‘Taste It’ along with co-writing Jake’s last two radio hits ‘Two Fingers’ and ‘Seen It All’.

A prestigious Ivor Novello Award winner for his work on Snow Patrol’s breakthrough multi-platinum selling album ‘Final Straw’, Iain co-wrote the huge hit ‘Run’ which went  top 5 for the band and later to number one for Leona Lewis, breaking the record for the fastest selling UK download.

He is a founding member of the band ‘Tired Pony’ that also featured the likes of Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody, Peter Buck from REM, Richard Colburn from Belle and Sebastian and Tom Smith from Editors. 

About Foy Vance

http://www.foyvance.com/

Foy Vance is a musician from Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland. He released his debut album ‘Hope’ in July 2007 to great critical acclaim. The Independent newspaper described him as ‘The missing link between Richie Havens and Stevie Wonder’. Three tracks from the album were used on hit US drama, Grey’s Anatomy.

His single ‘Be the Song’, featured in the American medical series, House. In 2010 Foy, along with David Holmes composed the music for a short film by director Terry George, and as a result has been offered a part in the director’s next feature film as a busker. The short film, ‘The Shore’, won a 2012 ACADEMY AWARD®*. Foy will release a new album entitled ‘Joy of Nothing’ later this year and will tour with Bonnie Raitt in the UK and Europe this summer.

*ACADEMY AWARDS® is a registered trademark and service mark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

‘SPIRIT OF THE OPEN’ GLENMORANGIE ANNOUNCES KINDRED SPIRIT PARTNERSHIP WITH TROON GOLF

Troon Golf unveil its association in Glenmorangie’s “Unnecessarily well made golf courses” campaign 

Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing has announced a strategic partnership with Glenmorangie, one of the world’s most famous Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. To mark the second year of Glenmorangie’s association with The Open Championship as the ‘Spirit of The Open’, a unique campaign will be showcased to discover the world’s most “Unnecessarily Well Made” golf courses. Troon Golf’s partnership will give monthly prize winners, drawn from entrants who nominate their chosen golf course, the opportunity to experience a Troon-managed venue from its impressive global portfolio that includes the likes of Abu Dhabi Golf Club, The Grove, and Prince’s Golf Club.

“Glenmorangie and Troon Golf have the strong brand synergies of discerning experiences, excellence, and meticulous process,” commented Bruce Glasco, Managing Director, International Operations, Troon Golf. “The ‘Unnecessarily Well Made’ golf courses campaign is centred on a topic that has long been debated between golfers the world over and it will be interesting to see what the distinguished ambassadors come up with. I know I speak for all our venues when I say we are thrilled to be involved and look forward to giving each winner a memorable experience.”

The campaign is a search for the top 18 most “Unnecessarily Well Made” golf courses in the world. A panel of experts; Sir Nick Faldo, Tony Jacklin CBE, Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and legendary golf course photographer David Cannon have been tasked with identifying candidates for inclusion in this prestigious accolade. Consumers have been asked to nominate via the microsite: www.glenmorangie.com/golf with each entry being put into the prize draw for a Troon experience.

“Troon Golf presented an obvious partner for our campaign,” remarked Michael Atkinson, Global Marketing Manager, Glenmorangie. “They are responsible for some of the world’s finest golf courses and have a reputation around the world for their attention to detail and unparalleled expertise. We pride ourselves on similar values, which will see this relationship flourish.”

Troon has an unparalleled reputation for delivering innovative marketing programs for its client portfolio. This partnership is a further example of Troon’s unique ability to forge exciting industry partnerships aimed at delivering strong returns for both consumers and owners alike.

About Troon Golf:

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Troon Golf EMEA is committed to developing Troon Golf’s presence in Europe, Middle East and Africa. This rapidly expanding division now oversees operations at 38 courses in 14 countries including Dubai, England, Russia, and Spain with further expansion planned across all regions.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon is the world’s largest golf management company, overseeing operations at Troon Golf (daily-fee & resort) and Troon Privé (private) properties located in 28 countries, 30 states. Additionally, 47 Troon facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon properties include The Grove, London, England; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif; Lumine Golf Club Tarragona, Spain; and Saadiyat Beach Golf Resort in Abu Dhabi.

About Glenmorangie:

Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky originates in the Scottish Highlands where, at the Glenmorangie Distillery, it is distilled in the tallest malt whisky stills in Scotland, expertly matured in the finest oak casks, and perfected by the Men of Tain. The Distillery was founded in 1843 and is renowned as a pioneer in its field uniting tradition with innovation to create ‘unnecessarily well-made’ whiskies.

Responsible Drinking:

The Glenmorangie Company advocates responsible drinking and suggests that drinkers savour Glenmorangie whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption. This competition is only open to entrants who are of legal drinking age in their country of residence. No prizes of Glenmorangie Whisky will be offered.

NEW DIRECTION REVEALED FOR WHISKY ENTREPRENEURS FRED AND STEWART LAING

Douglas Laing & Co owners forging new chapters for the next generation of the family

May 1, 2013 (GLASGOW) – The owners of Douglas Laing & Co, the successful independent Scotch whisky blenders and bottlers, have announced that they are to go their separate ways and focus on different projects from today.

Established by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948, Douglas Laing & Co has continued to thrive under the guidance of his sons Fred and Stewart Laing for the last 40 years.  Now, Fred and Stewart are looking to build a secure future for the next generation of their families by concentrating on the industry in their different ways, with Fred continuing to head up Douglas Laing & Co, while Stewart launches a new company, Hunter Laing & Co. Full details of Hunter Laing & Co’s formation are being announced today, as is further detail on Douglas Laing’s development.

The assets of Douglas Laing & Co have been split between the two brothers. Stock, brands and other functions of the business have been divided, giving both brothers equal value.

Stewart will retain Old Malt Cask, the Old & Rare Selection, Douglas (of Drumlanrig) range of Single Malts, Douglas Blend, House Of Peers, Sovereign Single Grain and John Player Special blend as well as the bottling facility in East Kilbride.

Douglas Laing under Fred will continue to offer their Single Cask Provenance range, Director’s Cut, Double Barrel, Premier Barrel, Clan Denny Malts and Grains, Epicurean Blend, the King Of Scots range, McGibbon’s and Big Peat.

In a joint statement, the brothers said: “The Scotch whisky industry is in great shape at the moment and this presents each of us with the perfect opportunity to diversify and explore different projects with the next generation of our families.

“As drinkers around the world expand their whisky repertoire and seek out new flavours, the opportunities for niche players will flourish.  Our commitment is to creating a solid business for the next generation of our families and the business structures now in place allow us to capitalise on the opportunities the market place provides for their long-term benefit.”

High Spirits at Leading Scotch Whisky Firm Douglas Laing as it Welcomes the Third Generation

May 1, 2013 (GLASGOW) – Today, Fred Laing realizes his career-long ambition of taking total control of Douglas Laing & Co. the business his father Fred Douglas Laing established in 1948, which is now regarded as one of Scotland’s most successful independent Scotch Whisky blenders and bottlers. As Fred restructures for the future, it has also been announced that the company will maintain tradition with a senior appointment from the third generation of the family.

Cara Laing, Fred’s daughter, joins the company as Head of Brands Marketing, bringing with her impressive industry experience and proven marketing expertise. She leaves behind Morrison Bowmore Distillers where she led both Bowmore and Glen Garioch Single Malts as Marketing Manager, to take up this role. Specialising in brand strategy and innovation, Cara was previously Global Brand Manager of Jura and also worked on Dalmore Single Malt at Whyte and Mackay.

Fred and Cara now have an exciting opportunity to develop fresh, innovative, new brands for Douglas Laing. The first of these new brands – a premium Single Cask range – for the company is expected to be unveiled in September. Most recently Fred created and launched the Big Peat brand; a modern, quirky Islay malt with a big personality that continues to grow YOY, out-performing the Malt category. It has also won numerous awards, most recently stealing the show at the ISW International Spirits Awards 2013, to win ‘Grand Gold’.

Beyond innovation, Douglas Laing will continue to invest heavily in stocks appropriate to protect their malt, grain and blended core brands such as ‘Directors’ Cut’ and ‘Provenance’ both of which are performing well and out-pacing the Malt category with strong double digit growth.

Douglas Laing brands include:

Single Malt: Provenance, Directors’ Cut, Premier Barrel

Single Grain: Clan Denny Grain

Blended Malt: Big Peat, Double Barrel,

Blended Scotch: King of Scots, McGibbons, Epicurean

Fred Laing said: “This is the start of a fresh new chapter at Douglas Laing with our third generation and I’m delighted to have Cara join the company my father established over 60 years ago. I confess, she brings exceptional and arguably better experience in the industry than I do. She has a great head for business, and an energetic, creative take on what’s needed in the industry; a trait that’s particularly important given our determination to strengthen Douglas Laing’s niche as a progressive, innovative company.  We look forward to developing our current whiskies as well as our new brands, which are already in the pipeline.”

Cara added: “Douglas Laing has a long and interesting history; one that I’m delighted to officially be part of now. The company’s reputation has been built on being individual, never following the crowd and always insisting upon the best quality. Dad has been a massive inspiration to me as the driving force behind Douglas Laing, so I’m looking forward to working with him, strengthening the characteristics and brands that he introduced and emphasising our progressive, original spirit through clever marketing and strategic development.”

As has always been the case, Fred will continue to hand-select all of Douglas Laing’s casks as well as writing the tasting notes in conjunction with Malt Ambassador, Jan Beckers. Fred has also retained other key members of the original Douglas Laing team, including Finance Director Alick Bisset plus Head of Logistics Archie Hamilton and Head of Production Stephen Gardiner who cumulatively bring more than 50 years experience with the company. The 12 strong Douglas Laing team will be expanded on in the coming months with several senior new appointments.

Notes: 

Established more than 65 years ago, Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky blender and bottler specialising in the finest Single Cask bottlings.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and non-chill-filtered to preserve the robust and unique character of the whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards is testament to this ethos.

NEW SCOTCH WHISKY COMPANY SET TO BECOME MAJOR FORCE AMONG INDEPENDENT BLENDERS AND BOTTLERS

Hunter Laing & Co Ltd begins trading under the guidance of Stewart Laing and his sons

With the fortunes of the Scotch whisky industry continuing to rise, a new company has been formed by experienced whisky entrepreneurs, Stewart Laing, and his two sons, Andrew and Scott, to capitalise on the opportunity and provide the ever-developing audience of whisky drinkers with new products.

Formed on 11th February 2013 and trading from today at its new headquarters in Park Circus, Glasgow, independent bottler and blender Hunter Laing & Co begins operations with considerable key assets that have been retained by Stewart Laing following the de-merger of Douglas Laing & Co’s ownership, which was also formalised today. These assets include the whisky brands Old Malt Cask, Old & Rare, Douglas Blend, John Player Special and Sovereign, plus a bottling plant, a workforce of eight (not including shareholders) and three generations of whisky business knowhow.

With a network of importers and retailers stretching across 65 markets, Hunter Laing & Co will be embarking on a strategy of strengthening the position of brands now in its portfolio and developing new products to meet the increasing demands of drinkers in Asia, North America and the Nordics, especially.

Joining the business as shareholders are Stewart’s two sons, Andrew and Scott. Both will be bringing valuable experience to the business – Andrew and Scott were directors of Edition Spirits Ltd, an independent bottler of single malt Scotch whisky. Scott, who has an MBA and a degree in law, is company secretary. Hunter Laing & Co will bring Edition Spirits and its brands into its fold.

Commenting upon the formation of the new company, Stewart Laing, Managing Director, said: “My father provided a sound basis for me to have a very enjoyable 40 years in the whisky business so far and with Hunter Laing & Co we’ll see the family tradition maintained for the next generation of the Laing name. With the industry fast developing, it is important for small players to be flexible, innovate and use their relationships to maximum effect. The structure of Hunter Laing & Co will allow us to do exactly that as we build momentum with our portfolio of much-loved brands.”

Adding to his father’s comments, Andrew Laing, Export Director said: “The whisky industry is in buoyant mood and the future outlook is promising. Being able to join my father in business and glean from him the insight and knowledge that has served him so well will be invaluable as we build Hunter Laing & Co into a major independent blender and bottler.”

“With Edition Spirits, we secured some fabulous casks for bottling and have developed a sound brand. The assets now at our disposal will give us a far greater degree of flexibility to create and bottle some very special whiskies. It’s a challenge that we are all relishing,” said Scott Laing, Business Development Director.

The brands now under Hunter Laing & Co ownership are:

Single malt: Old Malt Cask, Old & Rare, Douglas of Drumlanrig
Blended Scotch: Douglas Blend, John Player Special, Langside, House of Peers
Single grain: Sovereign

The bottling facility in East Kilbride now owned by Hunter Laing & Co will continue to service third party companies and brands. The new company will be run by its three shareholders, along with David Armour, Finance Director, and a sales, marketing and operations team of seven.

Notes:

• Douglas Laing & Co, the independent Scotch whisky blenders and bottlers demerged on April 30th 2013, with the owners, Fred and Stewart Laing, announcing they are to go their separate ways to focus on different projects from May 1st 2013.

• Fred will continue to head up Douglas Laing & Co, with Stewart launching a new company, Hunter Laing & Co, and the assets have been divided equally between the two.

Canadian Whisky Book Review and Twitter Tasting

Be a part of the world’s first ever whisky book review/twitter tasting. Social media are changing the way we read and the way we taste whisky. We’ve decided to integrate the two! Each Sunday for the next four weeks we will review several chapters from the book Canadian Whisky: The Portable Expert and discuss them on Twitter. And we will do this while we taste a representative whisky from that chapter.

If you wish to comment on the book, interact with author, Davin de Kergommeaux, or discuss a Canadian whisky you are tasting, please join us each Sunday at 3:00 pm Eastern time, on Twitter at #DavinTT.

The twitter reviews and tastings begin this Sunday, May 5^th at 3:00pm EST when we will be talking about chapters 10 – 13. Davin will join us to answer questions, and contribute to discussion among the participants, etc.

After chatting for about 30 minutes about 15 participants from around the world will open a mystery bottle that we have sent to them. You didn’t get a bottle? Feel free to join in anyway. The more the merrier. After tasting the sample and talking about it we’ll reveal which distillery it came from and which whisky we tasted. Sound like fun?

This Sunday we’ll begin with chapters 10 – 13. Then, Sunday May 12^th we will discuss chapters 14 – 17; Sunday May 19^th, chapters 18 – 21; and Sunday May 26^th, chapters 22 – 25.

We invite the whisky bloggers among us to blog about the book, the experience, the whiskies and/or Davin. Let the fun begin!

If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with me, @WhiskyLassie on twitter.

Canadian Whisky: The Portable Expert is available at Barnes & Noble, Chapters/Indigo, and many other fine bookstores, or on-line at Amazon.com and Amazon.ca.