FACUNDO PIERES SIGNS WITH ROYAL SALUTE AFTER WORLD CLASS VICTORY AT THE 119^TH CAMPEONATO ARGENTINO ABIERTO DE POLO

Facundo Pieres, son of legendary polo player Gonzalo Pieres Sr. has signed with Royal Salute, after leading the Ellerstina team to victory in the 119^th Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo in Buenos Aires last week. Partnering with the renowned Scotch whisky as Ambassador for the World Polo programme globally, Facundo raised a glass at the Royal Salute stand in Palermo, shortly after Ellerstina claimed the trophy.

After celebrating the first year as Official Whisky of the 119^th Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo, Royal Salute made the announcement to a small group of patrons, players and VIPs after Ellerstina claimed victory on Saturday, narrowly defeating La Dolfina, 12 goals to 10.

After signing with Facundo, Chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers Christian Porta said: “The Pieres family is legendary in the sport of polo. What we have seen today and throughout Facundo’s professional career is a passion, dedication and vision for this prestigious game that is truly inspiring.  Facundo will offer a unique insight into the ‘Sport of Kings’ and we look forward to further strengthening the Royal Salute World Polo programme with his support.”

Facundo Pieres, Royal Salute World Polo Ambassador, commented: “Royal Salute has shown their full support and commitment to polo in the past years; I am honoured to represent the Royal Salute World Polo programme globally and to be part of this fantastic journey. Polo is my life and has been in my family for decades and I hope to share this passion with the world. I am excited to be signing on the day of Ellerstina’s victory at the world’s most important game, the Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo.”

Undoubtedly one of the best and most respected competitors within the world of polo, Facundo is a 10-goal Argentinean player with proven international success which Royal Salute is proud to celebrate. 

Royal Salute, since 1953, had proudly celebrated outstanding achievements in all walks of life and today, Facundo will be continuing this legacy by being integral in bringing this purpose to life both on and off the field, sharing his experience and passion with the world.

Royal Salute’s commitment to international polo continues with sponsorships of some of the world’s most prestigious polo events across America, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East. Royal Salute will now be supporting no fewer than 18 polo events in the coming year, including flagship events, such as the Royal Salute Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup in Rajasthan, which is taking place later this month.

The extension of its polo patronage follows a successful year for Royal Salute. The brand reported an all-time record high of +20% volume growth*, a significant milestone for the prestige Scotch whisky category, with particularly strong growth noted in Asia and Global Travel Retail.

Royal Salute’s association with polo – known as ‘the sport of kings’ – has firmly established the brand’s position in the luxury arena, helping it to become one of the fastest-growing strategic brands by volume in Pernod Ricard’s portfolio.

Notes

* Pernod Ricard Financial Results for year ending 30.06.2012 

Facundo Pieres biography

Facundo was born into a family of polo players and is the second son of polo legend Gonzalo Pieres(Sr)  and Cecilia Rodríguez Piola. He plays with his two brothers Gonzalo Pieres and Nicolas Pieres, who are also professional polo players in the Ellerstina team. He also has two sisters, Tatiana and Cecilia Pieres.

Growing up surrounded by the best horses and with a professional vision of polo, he became the youngest polo player to reach 10-goals at 19 in 2005. This allowed him to be recognised as the polo player with greatest projection and the most visible face for his generation.

His career started in 1997, when he won the Copa Potrillos with the Ellerstina Jr. team, which was a subsidiary team for the Ellerstina Club founded by his father and Australian media tycoon, Kerry Packer. Since then, he has played in Argentina, the United Kingdom and the United States. He has won the Hurlingham Open, Tortugas Open and Jockey Club Open (all in Argentina) amongst other international tournaments.

Facundo started playing in the Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo (Argentine Open) in 2003 being at the finals in 4 occasions, and winning it in 2008, 2010 and 2012. This year, Ellerstina has also won the Tortugas Country Club Open for the tenth time, seven of them consecutively. 

Royal Salute

Royal Salute is the world’s leading luxury Scotch whisky, and begins where others end as only whiskies matured for at least 21 years are ever selected for Royal Salute blends. In 2012, Royal Salute became the first-ever brand to be officially associated with the Royal Gun Salutes at the Tower of London, as part of a long term partnership with the independent charity Historic Royal Palaces. 

Royal Salute is a leading international supporter of polo, ‘the king of sports and the sport of kings’. Royal Salute World Polo is truly international with a presence in every major region globally:

• Argentina Campeonado Abierto de Polo, Palermo, Buenos Aires
• Australia Sydney Gold Cup, Sydney and Portsea Polo, Victoria
• Brazil Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, São Paulo and Copa Ouro São José Polo,  São Paulo
• China Royal Salute China Open, Beijing
• India Royal Salute Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup, Jodphur
• Italy Polo Gold Cup, Cortina d’ Ampezzo
• South Korea Royal Salute Polo Cup, Jeju
• Spain Snow Polo, Baqueira, Lérida and Sotogrande, Cádiz
• UAE Royal Salute Nations Cup, Dubai
• USA Foundation Polo Challenge, Santa Barbara and Royal Salute Jubilee Cup, Greenwich, New York
• UK The Sentebale Polo Cup, Coworth Park,  Kent & Curwen Polo Club, London

And Beaufort Polo Cup, Tetbury

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.

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

Dingle Distillery

New on the Irish Whiskey Map 

Ernie – Ernst J. Scheiner, The Gateway to Distilleries at www.whisky-distilleries.net 

This new Craft Distillery was built this year and started production, first gin and vodka, and produces now a triple distilled spirit of malted barley.  The first new make spirit trickled from the pot stills on November 29th, 2012. Master Distiller John McDougall from Scotland, who worked in production, as director or distillery manager at Scottish distilleries – Balvenie, Ladyburn,  Laphroaig, Springbank, Tormore  – was the principal consultant.  John – the whisky legend – is the only man alive to have distilled all major styles of Scottish Whisky, Irish Whiskey and above all Plymouth Gin. The Dingle pot stills were designed by the experienced Scottish whisky expert and manufactured in Scotland by Forsyths of Rothes.

…the sprit is great and the whiskey will be liquid magic!“ John praises.

The latest Irish distillery was the brainchild of Oliver Hughes, CEO of Porterhouse Brewing Company which was founded in Dublin’s night spot Temple Bar in 1996. Together with Liam LaHart he installed the first mirco-brewery in the capital and has produced stouts, ales and lagers which received renowned accolades.

West of Dingle in Milltown Hughes discovered the old Fitzgerald saw mill at Baile an Mhuilinn near the waterfront to accommodate his pot stills. For him there is no better location: “There is a huge element of romance about a distillery in the beauty of Dingle. Our whiskey matures better over six degrees celsius, so being on the Gulf Stream and the most westerly town in Europe helps that.”

Whiskey distilling tradition is back again in Kerry.

Together with John McDougall he started producing a triple distilled single malt, which will eventually become Dingle Green and Dingle Gold. It is expected that the whisky has to mature for around four to five years before it will be ready for sale. About 100,000 bottles are planned to be produced per year. Four people run the distillery now and with the new visitor centre Hughes expects to create 15 to 20 new jobs.

Oliver Hughes, who operates four pubs in Dublin, one in London and another one in New York.

Ireland‘s largest independent brewer is confident: “We craft beer in Ireland and now we want to do the same with whiskey. Whiskey is actually distilled beer, so we are fully equipped to distil anyway.”

The Dublin business man is inviting whiskey enthusiasts all over the world to purchase one of the first 500 casks filled. Prices range from €6,100 for an a first fill-bourbon, a French barrique or Spanish wine cask, to €6,400 for a Port pipe and €6,600 for a Sherry butt. “Those that do will be named a Founding Father of Dingle, this network of like-minded enthusiasts will be invited to an annual networking party at the distillery every year,” promises the newly born Irish distiller.

The opening party was on Thursday 29th, 2012. Hundreds of locals, investors and well-wishers flocked in to be part of a historic moment: the first completely new launch of an Irish Whiskey Distillery since the merger of Midleton Distilleries in the mid 1970s.  Up to now there have been only four working Irish distilleries: Bushmills, Cooley, Kilbeggan and Midleton. They are the tragic remainder of a dramatic loss compared to 1837 when 90 distilleries where  operating on the Emerald Isle. The most westerly distillery will certainly make for more diversity in Irish whiskeys. The only independent Irish distillery competes the global players Beam Inc, Diageo and Pernod-Ricard-IDG, as the fifth operating whiskey distillery.

More detailed photographic information about Irish distilleries can be found on the website www.whisky-distilleries.net.

Since October 2012 the distillery has produced the Dingle Original Gin and a pot still vodka which is called DD Vodka. Gin and vodka will be distilled in a smaller special still called OISÍN. The grain neutral spirit is imported from Sweden because at Dingle Distillery there is no column still to produce neutral spirit. Nine locally grown botanicals will flavour Dingle Original Gin: „…rowan berry, juniper, fuschia, bog myrtle, heather, chervil, hawthorn, angelica and coriander.“ The vodka is charcoal filtered to smoothen its taste. Both spirits will be released in time for Christmas, primarily for export markets and retailing at €25 per bottle.

The following technical details were kindly given by John McDougall:

Production water                                                                 deep well, 74m, soft water

Cooling water                                                                      deep well, 74m

Size of  two mash tuns                                                       1 tonne each

Weight of grist                                                                     900 kgs.

Mashing time                                                                      30 mins.

Washback capacity                                                             5,000 litres collected

Type of yeast                                                                      dried Yeast

Fermentation period                                                            Min. 48 hours

Wash still capacity                                                               5,000 litres to charge level

Heating system                                                                   stainless steel coils, steam-heated

Low wines average alcohol strength                                   25% abv

Intermediate still size                                                          1,970 litres to charge level

Heating system                                                                   stainless steel coils, steam-heated

Average alcohol strength of middle cut                               60 % abv

Spirit still capacity                                                               2,700 litres to charge level

Heating system                                                                    stainless steel coils, steam-heated

Average strength of new make                                           72% abv

Character of new make                                                       sweet, fruity, malty and creamy

Cask filling strength                                                             63.5% abv

Warehouse type                                                                  currently dunnage

Porterhouse Head Brewer Peter Mosely with a Masters in brewing and distilling will lead the Dingle production team.

A visitor centre will be built by 2014.

The Gateway to Distilleries presents photos by courtesy of John McDougall (2012). The photos are copyright by John McDougall only. The portrait is copyright by The Gateway to Distilleries 2012. 

Information (Notes)

www.dinglefoundingfathers.com

Contact: collette@thedinglewhiskeydistillery.ie.

www.johncmcdougall.com

About the Author: Ernie – Ernst J. Scheiner M.A. was a director in an adult education centre and teaches “Germans how to drink whisky.” Ernie offers courses on whisky distilling and writes for newspapers and magazines in Germany.

He is the editor of The Gateway to Distilleries at www.whisky-distilleries.net which gives an excellent insight into whisky industry

AUCHENTOSHAN UNVEILS THREE EXCEPTIONAL EXPRESSIONS FOR THE DISCERNING WHISKY DRINKER

~ Auchentoshan 1966 – A Rare Vintage Release ~
~ Auchentoshan 1979 – Latest in 1970s Vintage Series ~
~ Valinch 2012 – Second edition Small Batch Release ~

Auchentoshan, the only triple distilled Single Malt Scotch Whisky, has released three remarkable and sought-after collectibles: the limited editions Auchentoshan 1966 and Auchentoshan 1979, and the second small batch release of Valinch 2012. These exceptional expressions will satisfy the palates of any whisky enthusiast or collector.

Established in 1823, Auchentoshan triple distils every drop, meaning the spirit produced reaches 81.5% ABV, significantly higher than most distilleries in Scotland. It is this quality and lightness of Auchentoshan’s distillate paired with the carefully selected oak casks that gives its whiskies an unmistakably light and fruity flavour. This production process is totally unique to Auchentoshan; a distinct proposition that makes for a modern expression of a classic single malt.

AUCHENTOSHAN 1966 – BOURBON MATURED

Carefully matured in North American ex-Bourbon Hogshead casks for just over 44 years, one of the rarest expressions of any Lowland Single Malt Whisky – making it a highly coveted collectible for any whisky fan.

Only 257 bottles of the Auchentoshan 1966 were laid to rest following distillation on 21 February 1966. After triple distillation, this extraordinary expression was matured exclusively in Warehouse Number Three, in the shadow of the Old Kilpatrick hills. Some say it is the perfect building for maturing Scotch Whisky; the sheltered aspect and lowland climate make for very small variations in temperature – just 12 degrees centigrade over a year. What’s more, the floor is natural soil which allows the warehouse (and the casks) to breathe.

Encased in a handcrafted aluminium and oak outer case that are each individually numbered, the Auchentoshan 1966 comes partnered with a booklet charting the history of this rare expression. Priced at £4,500 RRP, this exclusive bottling is available now.

Kirsteen Beeston, Head of Brands at Morrison Bowmore Distillers, comments: “This is a stunning example of the care, craft and investment we put into our whiskies, that means it can withstand the test of time. Thanks to careful tending of the North American white oak hogshead casks, Auchentoshan 1966 Year Old has matured beautifully over 44 years. It has aged with a complex character – but keeps its youthful vitality.”

TASTING NOTES
Golden syrup in colour, the expression displays welcoming aromas of fragrant tobacco leaf accompanied by a gentle prickle of lemon pepper. A splash of pure water awakens subtle notes of fruitcake and eucalyptus that develop into sweet heather honey, culminating with a flourish of cooling mint. A clean yet lingering finish, reminiscent of marmalade.

Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison Bomwore Distillers, adds: “Auchentoshan 1966 is a whisky of exquisite elegance with a delicate yet intriguing bouquet capturing the pinnacle of the distiller’s art and remaining true to its triple-distilled house style. As Auchentoshan matures through the decades in bourbon casks, the fresh citrus aromas intertwine with the American white oak, evolving whilst maintaining the beautiful triple-distilled structure”.

AUCHENTOSHAN 1979 – OLOROSO MATURED

Building on the success of the Auchentoshan 1975 Bourbon Matured launched in 2011, the Auchentoshan 1979 Oloroso Sherry Matured is the latest from the superb series of vintage releases from the late 1970s. Released this October, only 1,000 bottles are in existence worldwide, with each bottle individually numbered, making it no doubt a much sought-after limited edition for all enthusiasts and connoisseurs. RRP is £350.00

True to Auchentoshan’s signature contemporary look, this whisky comes in a stylish and understated premium black box. The character of the copper gold liquid is reflected in the copper foiling throughout the packaging and the interior of the box holds an image of a deconstructed Oloroso sherry cask in homage to the importance of the wood maturation process.

This Auchentoshan is a true rarity; distilled on 22 October 1979, the expression has been fully matured in first-fill sherry butts for over 32 years. Bottled at cask strength, the expression is non chill-filtered to preserve maximum intensity of flavour, creating an Auchentoshan of intense spiced fruitiness.

Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison Bowmore Distillers, adds: “This carefully crafted malt is one of the most intensely fruity Auchentoshans ever to be released. A cornucopia of rich dark fruits and deep spices, this beguiling expression is beautifully dry.”

TASTING NOTES
A cornucopia of rich dark fruits with Victoria plums, blackberries and raisins, balanced by cinnamon spiced fruitcake. On the tongue, experience bramble jam, dark chocolate, spiced fruit chutney and Madeira cake. Spicy nutmeg, tobacco and pepper linger into the finish.

VALINCH 2012
Launched last year in response to popular demand from Single Malt evangelists, the Auchentoshan Valinch was released to great reviews. A non chill-filtered Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in first-fill North American ex-Bourbon oak casks, the Valinch is a cask strength edition of the acclaimed Classic. For 2012, Auchentoshan is unveiling the second small batch release of this much-lauded malt. Only a limited amount of Valinch are selected for release once a year – 2000 cases globally.

Named after the metal pipette used to draw whisky straight from the cask, this light and refreshing whisky has all the depth of taste, flavour and full body associated with sampling whisky at source.

The packaging of this expression tells the story of the whisky, with the bottle reflecting a laboratory bottle complimented by the outer carton; stripped back to basics, exposing the idea of whisky straight from the cask.

TASTING NOTES
Pale golden in colour, the first aromas are sweet and creamy crème brulee, followed by an invigorating full-bodied orange zest notes on the tongue. The finish is sweet, crisp and lingering.

For more details, visit www.auchentoshan.com / or www.facebook.com/auchentoshan
Follow us on Twitter @TheAuchentoshan

These bottles are available at all good whisky specialist shops.

Auchentoshan Classic has recently gained a listing in Tesco’s.

UK Distributor: Cellar Trends on 01283 217703 or auchentoshan@cellartrends.co.uk

Notes:

Auchentoshan – The Modern Classic

A traditional and authentic single malt, distilled three times and matured in the finest wood

A whisky produced with passion and enriched with heritage

Favours the classic but with a nod to the contemporary

It’s a combination of two worlds; old and new

It’s a throwback to the future

It’s style not fashion

The very best of the past with the very best of the present…

Auchentoshan Classic is available to buy from a wide range of retailers including Asda, Waitrose, and a range of on line retailers and whisky specialists with a RRP approx £27.00.

As Glasgow’s closest Distillery, Auchentoshan is truly unique as it is the only distillery to use a third still in the whisky making process. It means Auchentoshan is the only Single Malt Scotch whisky to triple distil every single drop. This third distillation takes the new spirit to 81.5% ABV (not 70% which is achieved through only distilling twice) making it the highest distillate of any Scottish distillery. The result is a light and delicate single malt of unmistakable smoothness.

Awards 2011

IWSC

–         Gold Medal, 1975 Bourbon

–         Best in Class Silver, 18YO

–         Best in Class Silver, Classic

International Spirits Challenge

–         Silver Media, 1975 Bourbon

–         Silver Medal, Valinch

–         Silver Medal, Three Wood

Scottish Design Awards

–         Best Packaging – Auchentoshan Travel Retail Award

Awards 2012

San Francisco Spirits Competition

–         Double Gold Medal, Three Wood

–         Silver Medal, Classic

–         Silver Medal, 12YO

World Whiskies Awards:

–         Best Lowland – Auchentoshan 1999 Wine Matured

Ultimate Spirits Challenge:

–         94 points/Excellent-Highly Recommended  – Auchentoshan Three Wood

Ultimate Cocktail Challenge:

–         Chairman’s Trophy – Best Scotch Whisky in a classic Rusty Nail cocktail – Auchentoshan Three Wood

Gordon & MacPhail Sales Executive honoured at Òran Mór whisky awards  

Jim Irvine from Gordon & MacPhail was recently declared Whisky Representative of the Year at the Òran Mór Whisky Awards, held in Glasgow.

Jim joined Gordon & MacPhail, the leading malt whisky specialists based in Elgin, just one year ago and has quickly cemented his place in the company, and among his customers. Jim works across the west of Scotland, from Campbeltown to Dumfries, with Glasgow, Islay, Ayrshire and Arran in between, promoting Gordon & MacPhail’s range of single malt Scotch whiskies, including their own distillery’s brand, Benromach.

Jim has 20 years’ experience in the drinks trade and was nominated by members of the trade, who range from hoteliers, restaurateurs, licensees and wholesalers.

East Kilbride resident Jim said: “I went to the awards hoping that Gordon & MacPhail would win an award, but I had no idea that I was nominated for one. I was absolutely gobsmacked and really chuffed to win Whisky Representative of the Year.

“I’ve been with Gordon & MacPhail for just over a year, which makes the award even more special. It’s a family company with a huge reach across Scotland and globally, too.” 

Stephen Rankin, Director of UK Sales at Gordon & MacPhail, said: “Jim has been a passionate ambassador for Gordon & MacPhail since he joined our skilled team a year ago and it’s wonderful that his knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment have been recognised by the trade.”

Benromach 10 Years Old was ‘Highly Commended’ in the Experts Choice category and Benromach Peat Smoke was ‘Highly Commended’ in the People’s Choice category at the same awards.

The Òran Mór Whisky Awards have been running since 2008 and attract entries and nominations from across Scotland.

PICTURED (l-r): Sandy Gourlay, general manager of Òran Mór; Jim Irvine and Sue Buchanan (formerly of Waverly TBS).

Notes 

About Gordon & MacPhail:  

Gordon & MacPhail is an independent, family-owned spirit and wine merchant 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 55 countries. It offers more than 450 presentations of own-bottled single malts and has a stock-holding of more than 700 whiskies. In 2009, Gordon & MacPhail was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

In 1993 the company purchased Benromach Distillery in nearby Forres.  After extensively re-equipping the distillery over a five year period, Benromach was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in October 1998. The award-winning range includes Benromach 10 Years Old and Benromach Organic – the world’s first single malt to be certified by the Soil Association.

For more information visit www.gordonandmacphail.com

About Oran Mor Whisky Awards 

Formerly Kelvinside Parish Church, Òran Mór, Gaelic for ‘great melody of life’ or ‘big song’, is a thriving arts & entertainment venue in the heart of Glasgow’s West End.

It has a dedicated Whisky Bar and is known as a live music venue throughout Scotland. Visit www.oran-mor.co.uk for more information.

Ellerstina Team Wins 119th Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo

Royal Salute, the world’s leading luxury Scotch whisky, marked its first year as official Whisky  sponsor of The 119th Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo (Argentine Polo Open), with 20,000 strong international crowd watching Ellerstina win the world’s most prestigious tournament, 12-10.

With people gathering from all over Buenos Aires and around the world, the 119th Argentine Open got off to an exciting start between La Dolfina and Ellerstina. La Dolfina stole the first four chukkas 7-6, to take the lead going into the second half. Both teams came back with passion and determination, which saw Ellerstina powering through to regain the lead scoring in free play, taking the score to a nail biting 10-7.

Both teams were equally matched, the Pieres brothers, Facundo (10), Gonzalo (10) and Nicolas (9) and brother-in-law Aguerre (9) didn’t disappoint and fought hard to carry the ball up the field away from the strong 10-goal players from La Dolfina, Cambiaso (10), Stirling (10), Mac Donough (10) and Nero (10), to regain the title of the Argentina Polo Open Champion.

Neil Macdonald, Global Brand Director for Royal Salute, commented: “Royal Salute begins where others end, like the Argentine Polo Open where teams are at least 27 goals to compete in the world’s most elite polo tournament. We are delighted to extend Royal Salute’s commitment to international polo here in Palermo and we look forward to many more opportunities in Argentina in the future.”

Guests of Royal Salute were hosted by Chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers Christian Porta, with Patron JB Lee and the rest of the Korean polo team, England player Malcolm Borwick and His Grace Torquhill Ian Campbell 13th Duke of Argyll all toasting Ellerstina win at the Royal Salute VIP bar.

The world’s most famous polo tournament took place from 17th November – 8th December; the final taking place on the 8th.

Royal Salute’s commitment to international polo is ever growing, with sponsorships of some of the world’s most prestigious polo events across America, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.

Notes

Royal Salute is the world’s leading luxury Scotch whisky, and begins where others end as only whiskies matured for at least 21 years are ever selected for Royal Salute blends. In 2012, Royal Salute became the first ever brand to be officially associated with the Royal Gun Salutes at the Tower of London, as part of a long term partnership with the independent charity Historic Royal Palaces.

Royal Salute is a leading international supporter of polo, ‘the king of sports and the sport of kings’. Royal Salute World Polo is truly international with a presence in every major region globally: o Argentina Campeonado Abierto de Polo, Palermo, Buenos Aires o Australia Sydney Gold Cup, Sydney and Portsea Polo, Victoria o Brazil Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, São Paulo and Copa Ouro São José Polo,  São Paulo o China Royal Salute China Open, Beijing o India Royal Salute Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup, Jodphur o Italy Polo Gold Cup, Cortina d’ Ampezzo o South Korea Royal Salute Polo Cup, Jeju o Spain Snow Polo, Baqueira, Lérida and Sotogrande, Cádiz o UAE Royal Salute Nations Cup, Dubai o USA Foundation Polo Challenge, Santa Barbara and Royal Salute Jubilee Cup, Greenwich, New York o UK The Sentebale Polo Cup, Coworth Park,  Kent & Curwen Polo Club, London And Beaufort Polo Cup, Tetbury

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.

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

MMI’s Le Clos to showcase some of the most rare and valuable Macallan expressions following auction success 

(Dubai, United Arab Emirates):  Dubai-based MMI was the largest single winning bidder at the recent (October 2012) Macallan Chairman’s Collection auction, one of the world’s finest private collections of The Macallan single malt whisky, successfully bidding for all the showpiece bottles such as the 50 year-old 1928 Vintage, the 25 year-old Wordsley Crystal Decanter, the Silver Jubilee Magnum, and the 1981 Royal Wedding bottling. Le Clos will present its full range of Macallan expressions for the benefit of international whisky connoisseurs at its Dubai International duty free stores, where the Macallan collection will form the centrepiece of Le Clos’ new dedicated whisky showcase.

MMI owns and operates the award winning Le Clos duty free fine wines and luxury spirits outlets at Dubai International, where it will open a further Le Clos store at Terminal 3 Concourse A, due to launch in the first quarter of 2013. The new Le Clos outlet will have twice the floor area of the original store.

The new Le Clos store in Terminal 3 Concourse A at Dubai International will list over 60 Macallan expressions and will be the only duty free retailer with an extensive range of both Fine Oak and Sherry Oak Macallan, showcasing two examples of the rare Macallan Lalique Collection and 20 individual vintages from the Fine and Rare Collection spanning five decades.

Ms Patsy Christie, The Macallan Brand Ambassador, comments: “As the most significant purchaser in volume and value of The Macallan Chairman’s Collection auction, Le Clos Finest Wines and Luxury Spirits has demonstrated the company’s commitment in collecting, retailing and showcasing what will be the widest and rarest retail selection of The Macallan. This long standing partnership accentuates both companies’ pursuit of achievement, both being globally recognized as best in class in their respective industries.”

Ben Odgers, Head of Le Clos, adds: “At Le Clos, we pride ourselves on acquiring the finest, rarest and most exclusive wines and spirits from across the globe. The Macallan is acknowledged worldwide as one of the greatest single malts and we are delighted to be able to offer expressions that will appeal to serious connoisseurs and collectors across the globe.”

Having set the benchmark in its field since its opening in Dubai International Terminal 3, the Le Clos concept has become synonymous within the travel retail and wine & spirits industries as a ‘game changing’ concept. The success has primarily been driven by repeat custom from both domestic and overseas customers, all of whom have recognised the commitment shown by the business to offer value at all strata, combined with unequalled provenance in the field borne out of its direct relationship with suppliers.

Notes

Both Le Clos’ outlets are located within Dubai International Terminal 3 Departures, one in the exclusive Emirates First Class Lounge and the other adjacent to gate B8 on the Terminal 3 shopping concourse.

Le Clos awards and milestones

2009

Best New Liquor and Wines Store

(Duty Free News International Awards)

Travel Retail Operator of the Year

(Drinks International Travel Retail Excellence Awards)

2010

World record duty free sale of wines and spirits

2011

World’s Number One Wine Store

(La Cav Magazine)

Further details can be found at http://www.leclos.net/.

About MMI

MMI is a dynamic marketing, sales and distribution organisation. A passionate group committed to delivering and enjoying sustainable, profitable growth by achieving leadership though excellence in our chosen beverage categories and markets. MMI is headquartered in Dubai, UAE, with joint venture operations in Omanand Abu Dhabi. MMI is a subsidiary of the Emirates Group. Our long standing operation in the market has given us a unique understanding and respect for both the cultural differences and common interests in this diverse society. At every interaction with our portfolio, events and outlets we strive to bring more to the lives of our customers and consumers, through innovations such as the award winning and ‘game changing’ Le Clos fine wines and luxury spirits retail concept.

The Whiskey Ice Co. LLC Brings an Ice Ball Maker to the Masses at an Approachable Price

Dallas, TX, USA – December 7, 2012 – This year, whiskey/whisky and other fine liquor aficionados can rejoice.  The latest trend in drink paraphernalia, the ice ball, is no longer reserved for the most elite.  The Whiskey Ice Co.™, from Dallas, TX, USA has introduced their 2.6 inch (66mm) Spherical Ice Ball Maker™ that provides the exact same functionality as competing ice ball makers costing $800 to $1200 USD (£499 to £750 GBP) for only $399.99 (£248). The patent pending design of their Spherical Ice Ball Maker™ and proprietary manufacturing process allows The Whiskey Ice Co.™ to offer the same kind of product at a fraction of the cost.

The Whiskey Ice Co.™ Spherical Ice Ball Maker™ is the only complete package on the market at this price point and includes everything required to create 2.6 inch (66mm) spherical ice balls:

• 2.6 inch Spherical Ice Ball Maker™
• Ice Tongs
• Flexible Ice Plug Cup Mold
• Water Catch Drip Pan

According to The Whiskey Ice Co.™, the 2.6 inch (66mm) size is an optimized size that fits in more glassware sizes and allows for a normal volume of your favorite beverage to be served (approximately 1.5 oz. for a double old fashioned glass) and can be used in a variety of glass sizes and shapes.

“We are whisk(e)y drinkers and we enjoy an occasional cocktail too; we wanted to offer the same kind of product that typically cost hundreds of dollars more at a price that people could approach” says Mr. Clinton Compton, Marketing Director for The Whiskey Ice Co.™, “the problem with the current products available is that they are just too cost prohibitive [referring to other ice ball makers on the market] or they make ice balls that are irregularly shaped and/or crack and melt too easily [referring to silicone and rubber ice ball molds].”

The Whiskey Ice Co. ™ Spherical Ice Ball Maker™ is available in Silver and soon, a Limited Black Edition.

The Whiskey Ice Co.™ offers a variety of products with new products on the way, including apparel and vintage bar a liquor memorabilia. The Whiskey Ice Co.™ operates from 9am to 7pm US/Central time, Monday through Friday.

Wholesale and custom-branded reseller opportunities are available for retailers and distilleries who would like to offer The Whiskey Ice Co.™ Spherical Ice Ball Maker™ to their customers, including with their own brand and other color options are available, including gold, red, and more.

View the video of The Whiskey Ice Co.™ Spherical Ice Ball Maker™ in action:
www.whiskey-ice.com/videos.html

Contact:
Clinton Compton
Marketing Director
clint@whiskey-ice.com
4447 N Central Expy
Box 110328
Dallas, TX 75205
USA
Ph:  1-866-252-2099 (US & Canada) or +1-214-609-0599 (Rest of World)

BULLY BOY DISTILLERS INTRODUCES AGED

AMERICAN STRAIGHT WHISKEY

Boston’s First Craft Distillery Expands Award-Winning Spirits Lineup With First Aged Offering 

December 2012; Boston – Bully Boy Distillers, Boston’s first craft distillery, announces the launch of its first aged spirit offering, American Straight Whiskey. Joining an award-winning collection of small batch un-aged spirits including vodka, white whiskey, and white rum, Bully Boy’s American Straight Whiskey is hand-produced with the finest ingredients and traditional distilling methods.

Bully Boy’s aged whiskey uses corn, rye, and malted barley as the primary ingredients, and it is aged in new American Oak. The corn makes for subtle sweetness, and the high rye content creates a dry spiciness; the flavors are further refined through the barrel-aging process, which imparts both a prominent caramel note and a nutty finish.

“We’re very excited about unveiling our American Straight Whiskey, our first aged spirit, something we’ve been working on and looking forward to since launching the distillery just over two years ago,” said Will Willis, co-founder of Bully Boy Distillers. “Whereas our un-aged spirits are especially great for mixing into craft cocktails, this aged whiskey was produced as a sipping whiskey with a rich, complex flavor profile that stands on its own.”

Since the distillery’s official opening in 2011, Bully Boy’s White Whiskey, Vodka, and White Rum have been enthusiastically received by consumers and received numerous accolades from leading industry experts. Along with winning numerous awards at prestigious spirits competitions, the rum, vodka, and whiskey were rated “exceptional” by the Beverage Tasting Institute.

Along with their un-aged spirits, Bully Boy American Straight Whiskey is available for purchase at a number of premier bars, restaurants and retailers throughout Greater Boston. For a comprehensive list of current locations, along with news about sampling opportunities, please visit:  bullyboydistillers.com 

ABOUT BULLY BOY DISTILLERS:

Bully Boy Distillers, Boston’s first craft distillery, produces premium spirits with an emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Utilizing a 600 liter copper pot still, all Bully Boy products are handmade in small limited-run batches, resulting in spirits with complexity and unique character. Founded by brothers Will and Dave Willis, who were inspired by their family’s fourth-generation working farm, Bully Boy aims to utilize locally-sourced and naturally-grown ingredients to produce their selection of craft spirits.

Arran Distillers Score Double Gold for Multi-Award Winning Malt

Independent Scotch whisky producer, Isle of Arran Distillers, is celebrating after its 14 year old malt was awarded a Double Gold medal by US-based food and drink website TheFiftyBest.com.

Now a multi-award winning whisky, Arran’s oldest spirit released in 2010, picked up the award in the Single Malt Scotch Aged 10-15 years category.

Euan Mitchell, managing director of Isle of Arran Distillers, said: “This is a fitting end to what has been a fantastic year for the distillery.

“These awards are highly regarded in the industry so we’re delighted that our oldest malt has again been recognised for its quality and character. Next year we’re planning to release our first 16 year-old malt, which I hope will be equally well received.”

The Arran Malt 14 year old was one of just a handful to be awarded the prestigious Double Gold Award by FiftyBest.com.

The spirit also won a Double Gold Award at this year’s World Spirits Competition and in 2011 was named ‘Best Island (non Islay) Single Malt Whisky, 13-20 Years by Whisky Magazine.

James MacTaggart, master distiller at Arran Distillers, added: “Our whiskies are now celebrated all over the world, but we’re not going to rest on our laurels and will continue to produce innovative and high quality malt whiskies for many years to come.”

Since it was established 17 years ago, Isle of Arran Distillers has won a number of awards including Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007).

For the full list of winners in the FiftyBest, visit here

About Isle of Arran Distillers:

* Current 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.)

Also, ‘Double Gold Award’ for Arran’s 14 Year Old Single Malt and ‘Gold Award’ for Arran’s 10 Year Old Single Malt at the World Spirits Competition 2012. Double Gold in FiftyBest.com awards 2012.

About FiftyBest.com:

TheFiftyBest.com is an award-winning online guide to fine living, featuring rated listings from on unbiased surveys and proprietary tastings judged by food, wine/spirits journalists, and connoisseurs. Adhering to strict tasting rules and rigorous methodology,

TheFiftyBest.com achieves the highest standards of spirits evaluation.

For more information, visit: www.TheFiftyBest.com

The Macallan reveals winner of ‘The Last Word’ photography competition

And the Last word is…Personality

After attracting almost 1,000 entries, over 2,500 images and 2,625 votes, luxury single malt whisky, The Macallan has announced the winner of its Masters of Photography ‘The Last Word’ competition as Martin Faltejsek, from the Czech Republic, for his image entitled, Personality.

The global competition was launched in celebration of The Macallan’s third Masters of Photography Series, collaboration with the world’s most famous photographer, Annie Leibovitz.

Celebrating Annie Leibovitz’s world famous portraits, photography aficionados were invited to upload a portrait they have taken with one word – ‘The Last Word’ – capturing the mood of their photograph. The theme ‘The Last Word’ reflects The Macallan’s standing as the last word in luxury; the ultimate Scotch for the most memorable drinking occasion.

The global competition attracted an overwhelming response with over 2,600 votes cast by the public to shortlist the top 50 images.  These were then appraised by esteemed judges from the Royal Photographic Society: Roy Robertson Hon FRPS, President of The Royal Photographic Society, Leo Palmer FRPS FPSA MPSA and Vanessa Slawson FRPS FBPPA ASWPP AFIAP DPAGB.

The judges said of the winner and the competition entries;

“The competition was very difficult to judge. The variety of subject matter and approach of the photographers provided the three selectors with an interesting but challenging task. A combination of great ideas and sound technique resulted in an excellent set of pictures. The competition was so fierce that many, quite outstanding images just failed to make the top ten positions. The winners should, quite rightly, be delighted that their work has been recognised”.

“The spontaneous yet controlled nature of [the winning] shot is very appealing. The setting and colour harmony works well to create a visually stimulating and thought provoking image.”

Martin’s photograph wins him and a friend two nights stay inEdinburghbefore being taken to the home of The Macallan, Easter Elchies House, situated on the banks of the Spey. Here Martin will be treated to a full distillery tour and photography themed visit, sampling a selection of The Macallan’s finest whiskies.  In addition, he will also receive a Fujifilm X-Pro1 camera.

The winners of the The Macallan Photography Masterclass:

• First      : Martin Faltejsek

The Story: Personality

“Embrace your imperfections, they make you who you are”. I profoundly stand for this. In this photo I wanted to show human/our defencelessness and how vulnerable we are. Human personality is something really strange, weird, easy-to-hurt and suggestible. I simply do not get mean people.

• Second: Jonathan Agami

The story: GENIE

Is that the singer of that band? Or is it “Your wish is my command?..” * Ivar, the leading singer of a Swedish band.

• Third:      Gabor Dvornik

The story: Life

When you are young, you run and hustle, you dare, you get wounded and you do it again and again. If you are wise enough, you learn from your errors and will do better from day to day. Life gives this experience but is a costly thing – gives you scars and wrinkles to your face.

Entrants to the competition shared their work through Twitter, Facebook and google+, with The Macallan choosing their favourite weekly pictures to appear on a dedicated Pinterest board.  Each week one portrait was chosen as ‘The Last Word of the week’ and became The Macallan’s Facebook cover picture for the following week with monthly prizes awarded by votes cast on Pinterest.

This is the second year that The Macallan has run a photography Masterclass celebrating its Masters of Photography Series.   The Series features exclusive collaborations, conjoining the art of whisky making with the artist’s interpretation of the world of The Macallan.  This year, Annie Leibovitz has interpreted the four single cask variants released for the first time and created four powerful images, featuring Scottish actor Kevin McKidd as her leading man.  Leibovitz captures the brilliance of a moment where everything comes together, showcasing the stature of whisky as an icon of taste and masculinity and confirming The Macallan as ‘The Last Word’ in luxury.

To view the entries, please visit www.themastersofphotography.com.

www.themacallan.com

ABOUT THE MASTERS OF PHOTOGRAPHY

The Macallan Masters of Photography: Annie Leibovitz Edition comprises 1,000 limited edition bottles, of which there are four different versions.  Each bottle contains one of four unique single malts, crafted to reflect the mood of the signed Annie Leibovitz print that it is paired with.  The four single cask whiskies have been matured in different cask types to be completely unique and original.  The bottle and print are presented in a bespoke photo-archival box, stamped with The Macallan brand and Annie Leibovitz’s name.  

ABOUT THE MACALLAN

Founded in 1824 in the heart of Speyside, The Macallan was one of the first distilleries inScotlandto be legally licensed. Since then it has built a reputation as one of the world’s leading single malt whiskies.  The creation of The Macallan draws on the vital contributing influences ofSpain, North America andScotland, and of their respective natural raw materials, combined with traditional methods and craftsmanship. From its founding, through the subsequent owners of The Macallan distillery in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and into the present century, The Macallan has been recognised for its outstanding quality above all else. Today this remains the foundation for the worldwide fame of The Macallan and is such that it is truly “The Last Word” in luxury and at the heart of those special moments brought alive over a glass of The Macallan.