June 2012 Outturn Offerings 

Boiled sweets and grapefruit peel 

Cask No. 17.32                     

Highlands, Orkney 

Bubble-gum and vanilla sponge, with boiled sweets (pear drops and lemon sherbets); apple & elderflower cordial, white wine jelly; after a while a light soapiness. Fresh and clean overall. The taste is sweet, sharp and hot – grapefruit and lemon peel; powdery, with a pinch of salt. The scent of grapefruit skins increase at reduced strength, and the other aromas remain intact – vanilla, lemon sherbets, pear drops, washing powder. The taste is now sweeter and more salty, with light acidity and an aftertaste of lemon bon-bons. A fresh young aperitif from Orkney’s second distillery. 

Drinking tip: A springtime aperitif 

Colour: Pale gold                                              

Cask: Refill barrel                                            

Age: 9 years                                         

Date distilled: January 2002

Alcohol: 56.2% 

$90 

Powerful, elegant and atmospheric 

Cask No. 33.112                   

Islay, SouthShore 

Youthful, powerful – yes – but also elegant and atmospheric – the nose seemed quintessentially Islay – peat fire smoke and bog myrtle – as well as chocolate, beeswax, salty earthiness, tar and carbolic. The unreduced palate had a tongue-shriveling attack, yet with amazing toffee sweetness; birch tar and waxy textures. Water altered the nose to combine seafood saltiness, herbal, pine resin and citrus elements and something savoury (someone suggested lobster and chorizo). The reduced palate evoked lobster or crab from the grill, some leather, plenty of sweetness and a juicy, youthful energy – we thought it stunning. From the distillery that Glenmorangie re-awakened in 1997. 

Drinking tip: With oysters and lemon wedges in the Harbour Inn; fishing boats bobbing outside… 

Colour: Sunlight on Islay                                 

Cask: Second-fill Sherry butt                            

Age: 5 years                                         

Date distilled: December 2005

Alcohol: 60.8% 

$85

Eve’s pudding in a glass 

Cask No. 50.46                     

Lowlands, Borders 

The room was instantly filled with sweet fruity scents – bruised apples, pineapple, set honey; mellow, rich and opulent: Eve’s Pudding (apple topped with soft sponge), or even tarte tatin. The taste at full strength was not so rich: sharp, after a sweet start – one panellist was reminded of ‘strawberry flavoured cornflour’. Water raised soft pastry, tinned pineapple and baked apple, with some dry straw and boiled sweets (travel sweets dusted with icing sugar), and the taste is now much improved: soft and smooth, with light sweetness, a spicy finish and an overall taste of fresh mandarins. A-typical of the make from our southern-most distillery. 

Drinking tip: Chilled, with Eve’s pudding 

Colour: Full gold                                              

Cask: Refill hogshead                                       

Age: 21 years                                        

Date distilled: May 1990

Alcohol: 54.6% 

$145 

Fascinating and inspiring 

Cask No. G7.2                      

Grain 

We found the nose both fascinating and inspiring – lightly varnished wood, then honey, toffee popcorn and marzipan sweetness; fruit cake (raisins and cherries) and Italian sponge (lemon and vanilla). Typical of grain whiskies, the taste lagged slightly behind – but definitely pleasant – peach and apricot, lemonade, manuka honey, toffee, vanilla, scorched wood, almonds and a lemon peel finish. The reduced nose was light and bright – like sunshine on barley; pineapple, pear, marshmallow, meringue, crème brûlée and sugared rose petals! The palate benefited from water – scented wood, incense, Demerara and a little frisson of nutmeg. The distillery is near the Ayrshire coast. 

Drinking tip: Add a touch of water and take time to enjoy the fabulous nose 

Colour: Brassy gold                                           

Cask: Refill hogshead                                       

Age: 27 years                                        

Date distilled: May 1984

Alcohol: 60.3% 

$175

Please visit the Scotch Malt Whisky Society of America at www.smwsa.com

The Dalmore Introduces New Packaging

The Dalmore is introducing new packaging across its core range designed to reinforce its luxury credentials and give the bottle and packaging greater prominence “on shelf”.

Each and every bottle of The Dalmore will now feature a solid silver stag, which proudly represents the distillery’s iconic heritage and links with the notable Mackenzie clan, who were awarded the use of the 12-point royal stag emblem upon saving the life of King Alexander III in 1263.

Clean and contemporary lines, labels and communication feature heavily in the new range which increases clarity and brand stand out, meaning consumers can easily identify with the brand, the expression and its maturation statement.

The cartons will have a textured dimension to add a sensory experience to purchase and the King Alexander III expression will be in a front reveal style carton which can be opened up to display the bottle on shelf. The colour palate used across the new designs are deep heritage inspired colours chosen to reflect the rich history of the brand and also the colours in the famous painting ‘Fury of a Stag*’ which depicts the event in which the Mackenzie clan saved the King.

The new pack design will be applied across the core Dalmore range – 12, 15, 18, Cigar Malt Reserve and King Alexander III – and will demonstrate a clear progression of a luxurious look and feel between the core range and the prestigious rare Dalmore range, which includes gems such as Trinitas, Aurora and Candela.

Packaging will be rolled out across markets from May 2012.

* The ‘Fury of a Stag’ painting by Benjamin West which depicts Colin Mackenzie (Fitzgerald) saving the King’s life can be viewed in the National Gallery of Scotland, Edinburgh.

Chris Watt, The Dalmore Head of Brand:

“Our distillery has been producing exceptional single malts since 1839 and we have some of the rarest aged whisky stocks in the world. Our malts exude quality, craftsmanship and liquid excellence and we feel that the new packaging introduction brings our image proudly in line with that.”

About The Dalmore

The Dalmore is home to some of the rarest and most exclusive whiskies in the world, including The Dalmore Trinitas which was the first whisky to break the £100,000 barrier. Situated on the banks of the Cromartie Firth, Scotland, the distillery has been producing exceptional single malts since 1839.

The legend that surrounds The Dalmore harks back to 1263 when a member of the Mackenzie clan saved King Alexander III from being gored by a charging stag. The grateful King granted the Mackenzie clan the right to bear the 12-point royal stag in their coat of arms. The Mackenzie clan was long owned by The Mackenzie family which is why every bottle of The Dalmore is adorned with the proud stag emblem, reinforcing its royal pedigree.

www.thedalmore.com 

PARK AVENUE LIQUOR SHOP HELPS YOU PICK

THE BEST SINGLE MALT WHISKY FOR DAD ON FATHER’S DAY

New York, NY (June , 2012) – June is just around the corner and you may be asking yourself – what in the world am I going to get dad? Another tie? Swim Trunks? Fancy razor? No, no not this year!  This year give him something that will make you both happy (because you hope he’ll share) – Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

The experts from iconic spirits and wine retailer Park Avenue Liquor Shop have put together a little checklist to help you navigate the special world of single malt scotches and get dad what he really wants for Father’s Day (June 17).  Park Avenue Liquor Shop boasts one of the largest collections of single malt whiskies at retail in the country and they are happy to make delivery arrangements for dad.  All you have to do is decide on the bottle(s) and either visit the store or place your order online or via phone (212.685.2442; http://www.parkaveliquor.com/).

There are a number of questions you have to consider before zeroing in on that special bottle for Dad.  From Jonathan Goldstein, Park Avenue Liquor Shop proprietor, single malt expert and a Keeper of the Quaich, here is your checklist:

1.    Does he even like Scotch? Have you seen him drink it before? You would be surprised how many people come in and ask for a Single Malt because their Dad drinks Wild Turkey. Well this is nice but Wild Turkey is Bourbon and this is a different animal entirely (no pun intended).

2.    Do you know what brands he drinks? This will help your ‘expert’ determine what area(s) of Scotland to select from. An Islay whisky like Bowmore is very different from a Speyside whisky like Balvenie. The names of even a few of the labels will help greatly. It might even help to know what he doesn’t like.

3.    Budget. How much are you willing to spend and how many bottles do you want for your money. Do you want one super bottle? Do you want a variety of bottles to start a collection? Again, something to think about in advance. Your ‘expert’ should be able to find excellent choices in all price ranges. In addition, he or she should be able to offer something new. Distilleries are always trying to keep things exciting with new offerings. Highland Park just released THOR – part 1 of a 4 part Valhalla series. Glenmorangie has a line-up of malts in all price ranges.

4.    Is Dad a serious collector of Single Malt Whisky? Many distilleries create investment worthy bottles. These can get quite expensive. A recent bottling of Dalmore Sherry Finesse retails for $785. A great alternative for collectors are “exclusive” bottlings.  Here at Park Avenue Liquor Shop we have more that a dozen exclusives, like casks of whisky that we have purchased for the shop. These bottles cannot be purchased anywhere else. For example, we have a Glen Garioch 13 year old for $100 a bottle, a 35 year old Single grain bottled by Clan Denny from Cambus distillery at cask strength for $190 a bottle, and a 42 year old Strathisla bottled by Gordon and MacPhail for $400 a bottle.

All of the above questions are meant to help you and your ‘expert’ determine the best choice for dear old Dad. Do your homework now and feel confident that the bottle Dad receives is the one he really wants.

For the ultimate hard-copy guide to single malts, ask Park Avenue Liquor Shop to send you THE LIST – their all-encompassing brochure of more than 300 single malt Scotches available at retail.  THE LIST is a jaw-dropping selection of Scotch, arranged by region (Speyside, Eastern Highlands,NorthernHighlands, Southern Highlands,WesternHighlands, Lowland, Campbeltown, Islay, Orkney, Arran, Jura, Mull and Skye) that includes exact age statements, proofs and prices.  For single malt aficionados, this list is worthy of a long meditative moment, most likely while sipping a Scotch and perhaps having a double corona size cigar.  

ABOUT PARK AVENUE LIQUOR SHOP (http://www.parkaveliquor.com)

Considered by many to be one of the most respected spirits and wine retailer in the United States, Park Avenue Liquor Shop opened its doors in 1934 on Park Avenue in New York City, not long after Prohibition was repealed in December 1933.  In 1955, Herman J. Goldstein took over as owner and it has been with the Goldstein family ever since.  In 1975, the family relocated the store to its current address at 292 Madison Avenue and today, the second and third generations of Goldsteins are at the helm – father Michael is president and sons Jonathan (whisky expert and member of The Keeper of the Quaich) and Eric run the operations, along with manager/part owner Scott Abramson who has been with the company since 1988.  Park Avenue Liquor Shop was named 2010 Retailer of the Year by Whisky Magazine because of its knowledgeable staff and extensive selection of single malt whiskies (close to 400 bottlings currently in stock; more than any other retailer in the U.S.).  Park Avenue Liquor Shop is also one of the world’s premier wine shops, carrying a vast and enviable inventory of Bordeaux and Burgundies, many of which are very rare and hard to find. 

 Park Avenue Liquor Shop                  EM: info@parkaveliquor.com           WEB: http://www.parkaveliquor.com/       

292 Madison Avenue                          FACEBOOK: http://bit.ly/b9ClrN     TWITTER: @ParkAveLiquor

New York, NY 10017                          PHONE: 212.685.2442 

Store Hours: Monday thru Friday 8am – 7pm; Saturday Closed in the summer; Sunday Closed 

THE GLENROTHES EXTENDS FAN BASE WITH NEW UK LISTINGS

The Glenrothes Select Reserve single malt whisky, distributed by Maxxium UK, has bolstered its UK presence by securing a Multiple Grocer listing in Asda as well as being awarded a space in the Top Ten Malts within The Whisky Shop, the UK’s largest whisky specialist retailer.

These new opportunities will extend the Speyside brand’s presence with The Glenrothes Select Reserve becoming available in 189 Asda stores from May as well as securing additional exposure in The Whisky Shop stores and their online business at www.whiskyshop.com. This adds to the brand’s current availability in Sainsbury’s and specialist whisky retailers.

The Glenrothes Select Reserve is a non-Vintage specific selection carefully chosen and typifies the distillery house character of ripe fruits, citrus, vanilla and hints of spice. Introduced in 2005, and produced to the same exacting standards as the Vintages, The Glenrothes Select Reserve is presented in the iconic Glenrothes bottle and is the very essence of The Glenrothes range.

Peter Sandstrom, Marketing Director for Maxxium UK commented: “These new opportunities are testament to the success of our award winning single malt whisky. Once a truly hidden gem, The Glenrothes is increasingly being put in the spotlight and increased exposure through these new outlets will aid the brands coverage. We are able to reach more of our established fans and also introduce The Glenrothes to newcomers. This increased presence will help to continue to drive growth going forward.”

The Glenrothes also recently announced the winners of The Glenrothes Vintage Maker 2012, following on from the huge success of the 2011 Whisky Maker competition, which attracted close to 5,000 entries. The 12 lucky winners from the UK, USA and the rest of the world will work as The Glenrothes Vintage Makers in the heart of single malt production, Speyside, Scotland, culminating in the creation of The Glenrothes Vintage 2012, to be released when it reaches its peak of maturity.

The Glenrothes is also available in a limited range of Vintages. Rare and finite, Vintages are selected on their own unique personality and include Vintages 1988, 1995 and 1998. The Glenrothes Vintages are available from www.theglenrothes.com and specialist whisky retailers.

Notes:

1. The Glenrothes was founded in 1879
2. Little more than 2% of the distillery capacity is bottled as Single Malt to ensure exceptional quality
3. Of the 16 Vintages released to date, 12 have entirely sold out
4. It is matured in a combination of Spanish and American oak casks – the best of both worlds
5. The Glenrothes Select Reserve won a Gold Medal at the The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2012
6. The Glenrothes Select Reserve was voted Best in Class at the World Whiskies Awards 2008 and won two Double Golds at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2007
7. The Glenrothes 1972 was awarded a Trophy at the 2005 International Spirits Challenge
8. The Glenrothes 1978 Vintage was voted Best Speyside Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards 2008
9. The Glenrothes 1975 won a Double Gold award at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2008
10. The Glenrothes 1991 won a Gold Medal at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2010
11. The Glenrothes 1994 won a Gold Medal at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2010
12. The Glenrothes Alba Reserve won a Double Gold at The San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2010
13. “I have always felt that Glenrothes deserved to be more widely appreciated. Beautifully rounded…sophisticated after-dinner malt.” Michael Jackson’s Malt Whisky Companion
14. Jim Murray, in his Whisky Bible, refers to The Glenrothes Select Reserve; “One of the softest deliveries on Speyside, the silky barley and citrus caress the tastebuds with rare tenderness” and scores it 24 out of 25

MORRISON BOWMORE DISTILLERS AND CAMPARI AMERICA BOLSTER U.S. DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENT

Morrison Bowmore Distillers Grants Campari America – Exclusive U.S. Import and Distribution Rights For McClelland’s® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Effective June 1, 2012

GLASGOW and SAN FRANCISCO  – Morrison Bowmore Distillers (MBD), one of the major names in Scotch Whisky, announces the appointment of Campari America (formerly Skyy Spirits) as the exclusive U.S. importer and distributor for MBD’s top-selling McClelland’s® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, effective June 1, 2012. The deal brings one of the world’s fastest-growing Scotch malt whisky brands into the folds of Campari America, who already manages distribution and marketing in the U.S. for MBD brands Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, and Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

McClelland’s came to the U.S. market 18 years ago and has since grown to become the fifth best-selling single malt in the United States and number 15 in worldwide sales. It is the second best-selling malt in the Morrison Bowmore portfolio and has shown considerable sales increases, with global sales nearly tripling between 2001 and 2010. The volume growth of McClelland’s has outpaced all of the top-ten selling single malts in the world. (IWSR 2011 Report/Single Malt Category).

The addition of McClelland’s builds upon the already strong Campari America whisk(e)y portfolio which includes Wild Turkey® Bourbon and Rye Whiskey; Russell’s Reserve® Bourbon and Rye Whiskey; Glen Grant® Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky; Hibiki® Whisky; Hakushu® Single Malt Whisky; and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky, and demonstrates Morrison Bowmore’s confidence in Campari America’s formidable marketing and sales expertise in this category.

“Morrison Bowmore Distillers boasts one of the most critically acclaimed whisky collections from Scotland, representing every major distilling region,” said Gerry Ruvo, Chairman and CEO, Campari America. “This broad selection allows Campari America to appeal to every whisky fan, from the novice to the seasoned aficionado. The addition of the broad McClelland’s portfolio lets us offer even wider choices for our distributors, retailers and consumers, furthering solidifying our position as the premier whisk(e)y supplier in the U.S.”

“We have found a true partner for our brands in Campari America,” says Mike Keiller, CEO, Morrison Bowmore Distillers. “Our fine portfolio of single malt Scotch whiskies have shown significant volume and value growth since Campari America took them on in 2008. We are confident that McClelland’s strong growth trajectory will only continue under the expert leadership of Campari America and its outstanding sales force.”

McClelland’s offers a range of four Single Malt Scotch Whiskies, each of which provides consumers a chance to explore Scotland’s key whisky producing regions and reflect the true essence and distinct characteristics of that region:

· McClelland’s Highland – Highland malts capture the true spirit of Scotland – the moorlands, heather and fresh pine forests – and are rounded, firm and fruity.

· McClelland’s Islay – Famous throughout the world for their peaty character and dry finish, the Islay dram is the unmistakable taste of Scotland.

· McClelland’s Lowland – The malts crafted in the Lowlands match the soft rolling landscape. Smooth and light, they make the perfect aperitif.

· McClelland’s Speyside – Speyside malts are sweet and fruity, sometimes delicate, sometimes rich and robust but always complex.

This past March, the brand introduced new packaging – a premium gift box and a refreshed label – which underscores the excellent spirits quality and addresses consumer demand for a greater level of education on the taste experience of the famous whisky producing areas. The new cartons are completely recyclable, lowering the brands carbon footprint.

ABOUT MCCLELLAND’S SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

McClelland’s is a regional single malt Scotch whisky with expressions from Scotland’s four main whisky producing areas: Lowlands, Highlands, Speyside and Islay. It is produced by Morrison Bowmore Distillers, Glasgow, Scotland and distributed in the U.S. by Campari America. McClelland’s is the 5th largest single malt in US domestic market by volume and 15th globally (IWSR 2011). McClelland’s is available nationwide in 50ml, 750ml and 1.75L bottles. For more information visit www.morrisonbowmore.com

ABOUT MORRISON BOWMORE DISTILLERS (www.morrisonbowmore.com)

Founded in 1951, Morrison Bowmore Distillers Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Suntory Limited and is one of the major names in Scotch whisky. With three Malt Whisky Distilleries situated in the major production areas of Islay (Bowmore), the Highlands (Glen Garioch) and the Lowlands (Auchentoshan),as well as significant blending, bottling and warehousing facilities, the company has established a leading role in the export of Single Malts. The success of Morrison Bowmore Distillers Limited is based upon maintenance of traditional values and innovation in the marketplace.

ABOUT CAMPARI AMERICA

Campari America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. (Reuters CPRI.MI – Bloomberg CPR IM), together with its affiliates Gruppo Campari. At the heart of Campari America are two legends in the American spirits industry. The first, Skyy Spirits, was founded in San Francisco back in 1992 by the entrepreneur who invented iconic SKYY Vodka. The second is the world-famous Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, where they have been making the world’s finest whiskies since the 1800’s. Both companies were purchased by Davide Campari-Milano and together they form Campari America, which has built a portfolio unrivaled in its quality, innovation and style, making it a top choice among distributors, retailers and consumers. Campari America manages Gruppo Campari’s portfolio in the US with such leading brands as SKYY® Vodka, SKYY Infusions®, Campari®, Wild Turkey® Straight Kentucky Bourbon, American Honey®, Russell’s Reserve®, Glen Grant® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Cabo Wabo® Tequila, Espolón® Tequila, Ouzo 12®, X-Rated® Fusion Liqueur®, Frangelico®, Cynar®, Carolans Irish Cream®, Irish Mist® Liqueur, Sagatiba® Cachaça and Jean-Marc XO Vodka®. Campari America is also the exclusive US distributor of Bowmore® Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Auchentoshan® Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Glen Garioch® Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Flor de Caña® Rum, Midori® Melon Liqueur, Hibiki® Whisky, Hakushu® Single Malt Whisky, and The Yamazaki® Single Malt Whisky.

Campari America is headquartered in San Francisco, California. More information on the company can be found at www.campariamerica.com, www.facebook.com/campariamerica, Twitter: @CampariAmerica and www.camparigroup.com. Please enjoy Campari America brands responsibly and in moderation.

LAGAVULIN™ TO SPONSOR ISLAY JAZZ FESTIVAL AGAIN

by Pat Roberts

Lagavulin™, the iconic Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, will again be the headline sponsor of the Islay Jazz Festival in 2012, the brand’s owner Diageo has announced, following its highly successful and widely welcomed sponsorship of the event in the last two years.

The Islay Jazz Festival, which this year will take place from 14-16 September 2012, attracts hundreds of jazz lovers, from Scotland and further afield, to the world-famous whisky island on Scotland’s west coast.

Artists already booked include the Neil Cowley Trio, the Colin Steele Quintet, Konrad Wiszniewski with Pascal Schumacher, and Scottish guitarist Graeme Stephen.

Commenting on behalf of Lagavulin, Nick Morgan, Diageo’s Head of Whisky Outreach, said: “We are delighted to be able to sponsor this world-class festival again, which brings so many discerning jazz lovers to venues throughout this unique and special island.

“We have been pleased with the public and community reaction to our sponsorship over the last two years, and with the Festival’s growing success in attracting visitors to Islay, including many from abroad. It’s clear that live jazz and fine Malt Whisky are the best of partners, and that Islay, with its many distinctive and intimate venues and excellent whiskies, is ideally placed to host such a fine event”.

Fiona Alexander of promoters Jazz Scotland welcomed the confirmation of a further year’s sponsorship by Lagavulin.

She said: “Visitors to the Festival arrive with a sense of enchantment and discovery. The timeless beauty of the constantly changing landscape and the warmth of welcome provide a great backdrop to the heritage of Lagavulin production and the handcrafted creation of live jazz”.

Jazz Scotland will shortly release a film of the 2011 Festival highlights, which will be seen on the Islay Jazz Festival website , where details of this year’s programme will also be posted once available.

The Festival is promoted by Jazz Scotland and The Islay Arts Association, and also supported by Argyll and Bute Council and Creative Scotland.

The events of the Festival are spread over three days and many venues on Islay.

Notes

Programme details (and ticket sales when booking starts) on the Islay Jazz Festival website.

Compass Box Whisky Co. and The Whisky Shop join forces for whisky tasting ‘World Record’

2 Great Men, 3 Great Whiskies, 8 Great Whisky Shops, 24 Hours, 683 miles!

To mark the arrival of their trio of award-winning whiskies – Great King Street, The Spice Tree and The Peat Monster – across the 19-strong empire of Whisky Shops, boutique whiskymaker Compass Box is embarking on a journey from Inverness to Brighton, via 8 cities, 8 Whisky Shops and 8 different tastings, in an attempt to set a whisky tasting world record and raise money for charity along the way. The twist? The whole tour will happen in just ONE day.

Whisky Shop Managing Director, Andrew Torrance, explained: ‘We are delighted to list the Compass Box range in our stores from Spring this year. When we were discussing a launch plan we thought the best way to bring the magic of these whiskies to our consumers was of course to let them taste the product. What better way to do that than in one day! Inverness to Brighton in one day. I’m really looking forward to it and I know our customers will get right behind the challenge. Like all the best ideas, it was hatched over a good dinner and a glass of whisky.”

As four-time winners of ‘Whisky Innovator of the Year’, Compass Box is no stranger to uniquely ambitious ideas. But is this the most extreme thing Compass Box Founder and Whiskymaker, John Glaser, has ever agreed to do in pursuit of his art? “I have to admit to staying up pretty late a few times in support of our whiskies, but usually this take places in a very civilised bar rather than a van. Regardless, I can’t wait for this night. If it gets more people to understand our craft approach, enjoy what we do, and learn more about the wonders that whisky has to offer, then it is worth every one of the 1440 minutes on the road”.

John Glaser will join Whisky Shop’s Whiskeria Magazine Editor and acclaimed whisky expert Dominic Roskrow on this joint tour, starting with a one-minute-past-midnight tasting at The Whisky Shop in Inverness on Friday June 15th and finishing in Brighton with a grand finale at 11.30pm the same day. In-between, the whisky industry’s ‘odd couple’ will visit Edinburgh, Newcastle, York, Birmingham, Oxford and London.

At each venue, Dominic and John will illustrate Compass Box’s unique approach to whiskymaking with a tasting of the Great King Street – Artist’s Blend, Spice Tree and Peat Monster, while focusing on a different side of the world of whisky. They will serve variations on the whisky Highball and talk about the history of blended whisky as dawn breaks over Edinburgh; breakfast on Spice Tree with haggis in Newcastle; investigate the best whisky and food matches over a whisky dinner in Oxford; and discover the magic of the finest whisky cocktails in London. The grand finale will entail a glass of something very special under the stars on Brighton’s seafront.

John and Dominic will be encouraging whisky fans and Whisky Shop’s W-Club members to come along and join in the fun at each venue, while everyone – wherever they are in the world – can follow the journey on Twitter @CompassBox and @TheWhiskyShop and their Facebook page www.facebook.com/CompassBox

As Dominic Roskrow put it, “If truth be told, none of us know whether it’ll work out or not. Heaven knows who’ll turn up in Edinburgh at 4.30am and I have this vision of being stuck in a traffic jam in Crawley as midnight approaches. I was asked the other day if anyone has done anything like this before. I said don’t be stupid!”

Venue Time Theme
Inverness 12.01am Classic tasting and grand départ
Edinburgh 4.30am The history of Blended whisky and the rise of the Highball
Newcastle 8.30am Breakfast pairings (haggis and Spice Tree, kippers with Peat Monster)
York 11.30am The Art of Blending
Birmingham 3.30pm Oak – the magical ingredient
Oxford 6.00pm Food & whisky matching – cheese, seafood, spice
London 9.00pm Whisky Cocktails
Brighton 11.30pm Something special to finish!

To sign up to any one of these events customers just need to contact The Whisky Shop in the city where it is taking place. All attendees will receive a commemorative T-shirt and all ticket proceeds will go to charity.

ABOUT COMPASS BOX (www.compassboxwhisky.com)
The Compass Box Whisky Company is a boutique Scotch whiskymaker and craft blender, started in 2000 by John Glaser. Compass Box produces and bottles a range of Scotch whiskies, available in over 25 countries around the world. A four-time winner of the Whisky Magazine Innovator of the Year award, Compass Box is known throughout the whisky world for quality, innovation and passion for great whisky. The Compass Box signature range of whiskies includes Asyla, Oak Cross, The Peat Monster, The Spice Tree and Hedonism. They also produce limited release whiskies annually, and Orangerie, a Scotch whisky infusion.

ABOUT JOHN GLASER
American ex-pat John Glaser started Compass Box Whisky Company from the kitchen of his west London home in 2000. Having started his career on a path to become a winemaker, then re-routing himself through the corporate world and ending up as marketing director for Johnnie Walker in London, Glaser has a unique perspective on both the creation and the marketing of Scotch whisky. Glaser established Compass Box based on his commitment to evolving practices in the industry to make great Scotch whisky more approachable and relevant to more people. From the beginning, his vision has been to create one of Scotland’s finest and most exciting whisky companies, re-establishing the standards for quality and style in the industry.

ABOUT THE WHISKY SHOP
The Whisky Shop is the UK’s largest Independent Whisky retailer with 20 stores stretching from Inverness to Brighton. Their aim is to de-mystify the whisky category and be the friendly face of whisky on the High Street. They carry over 300 whisky products and welcome over 2 million customers every year to their website and shops.

ABOUT DOMINIC ROSKROW
Dominic is currently the Editor of Whiskeria and responsible for editorial content at The W Club. He has been a freelance whisky writer for six years, and has specialised in whisky for more than 10. He is a former Editor of Whisky Magazine, and currently covers world whiskey for The Whisky Advocate, making him the only journalist to work for all ‘big three’ whisky titles. He has just published his fifth book, 1001 Whiskies To Try Before You Die, and his sixth, The Whisky Opus, is out in August. His latest project is founding a new trade association for craft distillers across the world. Which just goes to show that from this whisky tasting tour to the new association it really is possible to travel from the ridiculous to the sublime!

Please find below a link to the results of the Scottish Field Whisky Challenge which you may find of interest.

Scottish Field Results of Summer Whisky Challenge 2012

You can also visit them on Facebook and Twitter as they move through the stages to the Grand Final at the end of the year where the Scottish Field Whisky of the Year will be published.

Rare whisky launched to mark Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

A 60 year old Single Malt Whisky is being launched today (6th February 2012) in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee by one of the world’s leading malt whisky specialists.  Gordon & MacPhail – the Elgin based and family-run Single Malt Whisky specialist – has released only 85 bottles of Glen Grant 60 Years Old.

Distilled on 2nd February 1952, four days before the Queen acceded the throne, the whisky was bottled on 2nd February 2012 at cask strength, making it exactly 60 years old. Gordon & MacPhail’s Joint Managing Director Michael Urquhart said: “Glen Grant 60 Years Old is a rare single malt whisky and we are delighted to be releasing it to mark the celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. “With whisky of this quality and rarity – each bottle comes with a certificate of authenticity – we expect considerable interest,  not just in the UK, but from the international marketplace where recent export figures have shown we have an avid consumer following.  “In producing the packaging for this remarkable Single Malt we worked with Scottish craftsmen, allowing us to showcase some of  the finest talent in the country.”

Gordon & MacPhail Glen Grant 60 Years Old is described as having poise and great complexity, displaying aromas of Cox’s Pippins and Granny Smith apples, laced with cinnamon and root ginger.  The palate reveals the age and depth of character as rich, burnt fruit notes mingle with a drying, spicy edge and a dusting of white pepper.

The Single Malt is presented in a pyramid shaped crystal decanter adorned with a diamond shaped stopper. Each decanter is expertly engraved – the script in-filled with silver – and uniquely numbered. The decanter carries an engraved crown with a sparking Swarovski crystal, set at the meeting point of the crowns two arches. A silver collar, placed around the neck of the decanter completes the presentation. The decanter is packaged in a hand-crafted box made of Scottish Elm, felled a short distance from Holyrood House, the Queen’s official Scottish residence. The decanter nestles in the box lined with luxurious, purple Harris Tweed and a dust jacket made from the same material protects the box and the precious contents.

The limited edition bottles are now being put on the market for a recommended retail price in the UK of £8,000 per bottle. Prices in export markets will differ depending on duty and import taxes.

 The launch of Glen Grant 60 year old is supported by an online social media campaign and dedicated microsite www.gordonandmacphail.com/diamond and Facebook page. Both display images of the hand crafting bottling process and packaging of the final product.

THE MACALLAN LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION DIAMOND JUBILEE BOTTLING

The Macallan is celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s 60th year on the throne with the release of a stunning limited edition commemorative Diamond Jubilee bottling. The specially designed bottle bears a unique image of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II created by the sculptor Arnold Machin. With only 2012 bottles available, and like The Macallan’s previous commemorative royal bottlings, this edition is expected to be highly sought after by collectors from the worlds of whisky and art.

The pack was designed by acclaimed Art Director David Holmes, who was responsible for the 2011 Macallan Royal Marriage edition. Arnold Machin’s magnificent image of the Queen is displayed on an intricately designed ceramic brooch which sits proudly on the bottle’s label. The distinctive image, depicted here on a product for the first and only time, was one of a series of effigies created by Arnold Machin OBE RA. A development of this design was later used on all definitive issue British postal stamps.

Commenting on the special commemorative Diamond Jubilee edition David Holmes said; “A Royal Diamond Jubilee is extremely rare and should be celebrated with flair and unique exuberance. With this in mind and taking inspiration from a brooch gifted to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee, it was imperative to keep the design sophisticated. The motivation behind the colours stemmed from the tones so often favoured by the Queen, pale blue, pale yellow and pale green. These colours complement the product’s subtle tones perfectly when presented in the display case which, with its cushioned regal purple lid has the feel of a jewellery box. In a year of celebrating Britain, all elements of production were British based. The antiqued pewter surround was made in Scotland, the cameo in Staffordshire and the flags and ribbons are all made in Britain.”

The golden amber liquid has been specially chosen for the months it was drawn from the casks, 6th February, the Queen’s accession and the first week in June, traditionally when the Jubilees are celebrated. Bottled at 52%, in line with the year of the Queen’s accession, the exceptional sherry cask matured single malt gives hints of citrus fruits, ginger and clove.

Ken Grier, Director of Malts at Edrington commented; “The Macallan is honoured to showcase and play host to such an iconic British emblem. This unique combination between art and whisky results in an exquisitely designed creation which continues our exceptional attention to detail in all The Macallan products. Our Whisky Maker, Bob Dalgarno has put together a superb single malt which carries the character and nobility of the occasion it commemorates, whilst David Holmes has given us a truly inspiring way to use this iconic image”

The 2012 bottles are available from The Macallan Distillery Visitor Centre for UK collection only and online for UK customers at www.themacallan.com at a price of £350. Limited quantities will also be available via selected luxury retailers. Bottles will be available for sale from 31st May 2012.

http://www.themacallan.com/shop/detail.asp?pid=MACDJ01

© The Machin Arts Foundation and used with their kind permission.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Vanilla is the first to show, sweet to a point, yet shows maturity. Citrus fruits hang on to the coattails, (orange, apple, hints of lemon), almost appear when they are required. The cask influences then appear, resinous, never overbearing, changing to show polished oak, aged, reminiscent of a once exquisite dining room.

• Palate: Rich dried fruits open up to show their hand. Raisin drives the character in a non-nonsense manner. It is evident it is not alone, figs and dates, are the lesser players of the group. As they converse, treacle toffee takes a bow followed by the courtiers, ginger and clove. Like a finale the grand lady enters, Oak – refined, polished, elegant, overlooking all.

• Finish: Long, meanders, in no hurry to leave.