SOUTH AFRICAN FRIENDS ‘TAKE HOME’ GLOBAL WHISKEY PRIZE

A Marketing Consultant and an Orthotist from South Africa won a global competition last night (17th August 2011) hosted by BUSHMILLS™ Irish Whiskey that will see the world-famous Old Bushmills Distillery ‘go on tour’ to a city in the Rainbow Nation.

Jonathan ‘Oros’ Oliff, 28, from Durban and Sean Tickner, 30, from Cape Town were together chosen as the winners of ‘Make it 2 Bushmills’, winning two weeks working at the world-famous Old Bushmills Distillery, where they will make their own unique blend of BUSHMILLS Irish Whiskey, live in luxury penthouse accommodation and get £5,000 spending money.

After their experience, Jonathan and Sean will ‘take home the distillery’, with the ultimate BUSHMILLS party that will be held in a South African city this year.

The pair, who are married to identical twin sisters, met while body boarding at North Beach in Durban fifteen years ago and have been friends ever since.

Jonathan said: “It’s amazing to be named the winners of Make it 2 Bushmills! We came to the global final here in Bushmills to do our country proud – we can’t wait to take the distillery home to South Africa.”

BUSHMILLS Irish Whiskey is hand-crafted in small batches for an exceptionally smooth taste at the Old Bushmills Distillery – Ireland’s oldest working distillery in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

The BUSHMILLS Master Distiller, Colum Egan launched Make it 2 Bushmills in March 2011 to offer two friends to share an experience of a lifetime at the distillery and then take it ‘on tour’.

Jonathan and Sean defeated thousands of others to be crowned winners by entering on the BUSHMILLS Facebook page and then campaigning for public votes to allow them to represent their country at the global final, Bushcamp, held in Bushmills village this week.

In the past few days, they have competed in a series of challenges including barrel-rolling, beach-golfing and whiskey-tasting to impress the panel of judges with their strong friendship, teamwork and creativity.

BUSHMILLS Master Distiller Colum Egan said: “Jonathan and Sean have shown throughout Make it 2 Bushmills that they are great friends, with a genuine love for life and a fantastic sense of humour.

We can’t wait to welcome them into the distillery family and then work to take the distillery ‘on tour’ to South Africa…it’s going to be some party.”

Bushcamp was judged by Colum and some famous fans of BUSHMILLS, including Kevin Baird of Two Door Cinema Club, Jonathan Galkin of DFA Records and Rob Allanson of Whisky Magazine.

Fans of BUSHMILLS can follow Jonathan and Sean’s experience as they Make it 2 Bushmills and ‘take home the distillery’ on the BUSHMILLS Facebook page, facebook.com/bushmills1608 or by following @BushmillsGlobal on Twitter.

Notes

Colum Egan Biography

Colum Egan is Master Distiller at the Old Bushmills Distillery in County Antrim, where BUSHMILLS Irish Whiskey is hand crafted in small batches for an exceptionally smooth taste.

Since 2002, Colum has been responsible for all the critical stages of whiskey production, all of them carried out at the distillery itself. That’s very handy when your job is to ensure that the production of the whiskies is done to perfection – as Colum likes it to be. Colum lives in the little coastal town of Ballycastle with his wife and two sons and says that he has found his dream job.

MI2B GLOBAL WINNERS:

BUSHMILLS™ Irish Whiskey Master Distiller Colum Egan is pictured with the winners of Make it 2 Bushmills, South Africans, Jonathan Oliff and Sean Tickner.

The pair won the opportunity to spend two weeks working at the world-famous Old Bushmills Distillery, where they will make their own unique blend of BUSHMILLS Irish Whiskey, live in luxury penthouse accommodation and get £5,000 spending money.

After their experience, Jonathan and Sean will ‘take home the distillery’, with the ultimate BUSHMILLS party that will be held in a South African city this year.

About BUSHMILLS

BUSHMILLS Irish Whiskey is hand crafted in small batches at Ireland’s oldest working distillery in Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland. The brand portfolio includes six exceptionally smooth and multi-award winning whiskeys: BUSHMILLS Original, BLACK BUSH, BUSHMILLS 10 Year Old Single Malt, BUSHMILLS 16 Year Old Single Malt and BUSHMILLS Malt 21 Year Old Single Malt and BUSHMILLS 1608. BUSHMILLS is the only distillery in Ireland to make triple-distilled Malt Whiskey

Isle of Skye 12 Years Old Debuts in USA

Edinburgh, Scotland, 15 August 2011: From mid-September, Isle of Skye 12 Blended Scotch Whisky will be available in the USA for the first time in the brand‟s history. Isle of Skye‟s owners, Scottish independent bottlers and distillers, Ian Macleod Distillers has taken the decision to introduce the 12 Years Old Blended Scotch Whisky following the surge in popularity of its award-winning Isle of Skye 8 Years Old since its launch to the US market in 2009. Originating in Skye, one of the most widely celebrated Scottish Islands, and home of the Clan Macleod, Isle of Skye 12 Years Old Scotch is famed for its exceptionally smooth and mellow flavour, thanks to its high proportion of carefully selected Island and Speyside Malts. With an aroma of fresh smokiness, dried fruits and vanilla, Isle of Skye 12 Years Old, has a soft mid-palate, balancing strong sherry wood and smoke with floral and slightly fruity undertones. The finish is described as ripe, satisfying and sustaining. Roderick Mackenzie, Director of Americas, Africa & Europe for Ian Macleod Distillers commented: “It is a very exciting opportunity to be launching Isle of Skye 12 Years Old in the USA. The success of Ian Macleod’s Isle of Skye 8 Years Old has undoubtedly whetted the appetite of the US market and consumers are demanding more expressions.”

Lynn Kohl of ImpEx Beverages Inc and Isle of Skye‟s US importer commented: “ImpEx Beverages Inc. is delighted to be introducing Isle of Skye 12 Years Old in the Fall of 2011. With a high percentage of single malts and its age statement, Isle of Skye has often been referred to as “the blend that thinks it’s a Single Malt”. Whether a seasoned whisky „Malthead‟ or perhaps more importantly, the new Scotch drinker, there is freshdemand to balance high quality with affordability. Customers are proactively seeking out unique new blends that offer a richness that far surpasses their old, familiar choices. They do not want their father’s drink. Isle of Skye is a unique Scotch Blend and they are now claiming ownership of that uniqueness.” To assist in promoting the launch of the new Isle of Skye 12 Year Old, ImpEx plan to launch a comprehensive, US wide campaign, “Pub It Up”. The on-trade marketing initiative will aim to bring together Isle of Skye‟s new, younger fans‟ love of sports and Scotch Whisky in their favourite gathering places, notably their local pubs and sports bars. Whisky expert, Jim Murray, describes Isle of Skye as “an absolute must for any Islay-philes out there – in fact, a must for everybody. Your taste buds are beaten up and caressed simultaneously. One of the most enormous yet brilliantly balanced whiskies in the world.” The Isle of Skye 12 Year Old will be available for RRP $38.99 for 750ml nationwide from mid-September. For further information on USA distribution for Isle of Skye, contact Impex Beverages Inc.

tel: 650 872 1113 or visit: www.impexbev.com. To learn more about Isle of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky, contact Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd tel: +44 1506 852 205 or visit www.ianmacleod.com www.isleofskyewhisky.com Ian Macleod encourages responsible drinking. www.drinkaware.co.uk www.scotch-whisky.org.uk 

 Tasting Notes As described by Dave Broom in WHISKY MAGAZINE (Issue 22) NOSE: Ripe, fruity and well balanced. Sherry, dried fruits and a hint of smoke. Water brings out a butter edge. A lot going on. PALATE: Overall, a little drier than the nose suggests but with excellent, soft, mid-palate weight. Light smoke all the way through. FINISH: Ripe and soft. COMMENTS: Very well balanced. A lovely blend. As described by Michael Jackson in WHISKY MAGAZINE (Issue 22) NOSE: Fresh smokiness. The smell of burning hay. Earthy. PALATE: Sweet and salty. Firm, cereal-grain maltiness. Peanut butter on toast. FINISH: Orange and ginger marmalade. Satisfying. Sustaining. COMMENTS: The aromas and flavours evoke breakfast, but in a farmhouse kitchen with an open fire and dashed by the winds down the chimney.

Limited Stock Available in Canada of the Nant Distillery First Release Single Malt,

Sold out in Tasmania and Australia

“All the hallmarks or virgin oak giving it large, beautifully supported by medium roast java and dreamy fruit, there’s a statement of intent for you…….The flavours and style could not be more clearly nailed to the mast”  (Jim Murray, Whisky Bible, 2011)

A Tasmanian Highland Whisky handcrafted exclusively on the historic Nant Estate (circa 1821) in the central highlands of Tasmania.

Made from Tasmanian barley and water from the central highland lakes, only a small number of casks are produced each year and are now available for you to enjoy.

The result, we are sure you will agree, is a single malt whisky that truly captures the essence of the pristine Tasmanian highlands from which it has been created.

Cottonwood Agency – Wine & Spirits

www.cottonwoodagency.com

sales@cottonwoodagency.com

For more information or to place an order, call 416-902-0097

Catto’s Launch Limited Edition 25 year old to celebrate the Brand’s 125th Anniversary

One of the first Scotch whisky blends, Catto’s have announced the launch of a special commemorative edition of their 25 year old blend to celebrate the brand’s 150th anniversary. With only 2400 being produced, it will be accompanied by a limited edition Lochinvar crystal decanter enclosing their award winning 25 year old blend. The specially designed box features a premium limited edition black leatherette finish with a gold foil print and will be available in export markets from September 2011.

The whisky’s founder, James Catto is a legendary figure in the development of the Scotch Whisky industry, being credited as one of the very first whisky blenders. It was in 1861 that he began his business in Aberdeen by deciding to blend the high quality local Highland malt whiskies he sold in his grocery store with popular Lowland grain whiskies until he felt he’d created the finest blended Scotch – his whisky was an instant success.

Still popular today, Catto’s portfolio includes Rare Old Scottish, Deluxe 12 year old and the 25 year old which will feature in the 125th anniversary edition. The 25 year old is a well balanced blend, amber in colour and sweet and spicy on the palate with a long lasting toffee and raisin finish. It received a gold medal at the IWSC awards in 2010, was awarded best in class for Deluxe Whisky and has just won a gold at the International Spirits Challenge Awards.

Brand Manager for Catto’s, Lynne Buckley of International Beverage Holdings said:

“James Catto was an innovative Scot, creating a blend that has stood the test of time and is still as popular today as it was then. We’re delighted to be able to celebrate the 125th anniversary of his blended whisky and hope that his legacy continues on for a long time to come.”

This limited edition will be available in Russia, Paraguay, Mexico, Venezuela, Panama, Ecuador, Chile, Uruguay and Vietnam.

Notes

International Beverage Holdings (www.interbevgroup.com) was established in 2005 as the international arm of ThaiBev, one of South East Asia’s leading alcohol beverage companies. With a network of regional offices in Asia, Europe and North America, the company is responsible for the production, sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium global brands in over 80 countries and territories.

Inver House Distillers (www.inverhouse.com) is globally integrated into International Beverage Holdings and drives the distillation and maturation of Scotch through its five distilleries.

International Beverage brands include:

Ø Chang Beer: Thailand’s iconic beer brand

Ø Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc, Speyburn

Ø Blended Whiskies: Hankey Bannister

Ø Mekhong: ‘The Spirit of Thailand’ since 1941

Ø Caorunn – a small batch distilled Scottish Gin infused with 5 Celtic botanicals

The company’s success is built on the combination of a strong understanding of local cultures and markets with the creation of a truly global operational network. Brand building pays respect to heritage, provenance and craftsmanship whilst delivering innovative and highly effective strategies at global level. A skilled and dedicated team of more than 12 nationalities speaking over 14 languages delivers the highest standards of customer service and attention to detail across all aspects of the business.

Disabled teams defy difficult terrain and appalling weather to meet the 2011 Bowmore Ben Nevis Challenge

I was determined to make it to the top this time, having had to turn back before. I’m ecstatic to have got to the summit.’ Rosie Smith, Team Leader, Nitshill.

Eight teams of disabled and non-disabled people yesterday (20th August 2011) set off on what is the ultimate challenge; conquering the UK’s highest peak Ben Nevis. Sponsored by Bowmore, the first Islay Single Malt Whisky, the Bowmore Ben Nevis Challenge is the culmination of months of training and preparation for the teams.

Guided by ex-SAS officer and TV Presenter Ken Hames, the teams were led by disabled people with a variety of impairments. The leaders, seven of who are using specially designed wheelchairs, must navigate and direct their team to the summit and in the process help raise vital funds for Capability Scotland.

The teams made the ascent despite at times appalling weather with almost constant rain and, at times, zero visibility. Working with experienced volunteer mountain guides they worked their way across treacherous terrain, avoiding sheer drops and contending with large boulders and fences.

The first team to the top was led by Rosie Smith (24) from Nitshill in Glasgow. She and her team ‘Rosie’s Runners’ made the summit in just 5 hours and 20 minutes. ‘Despite having attempted this before, I was still nervous’ said Rosie, ‘but I was determined to make it to the top this time, having had to turn back before. I’m ecstatic to have got to the summit.’

Andy Steen (45) from Gourock and his team ‘We Want To Go Hames’ was second to the summit. He commented: “How many people can say they’ve been up Ben Nevis?  I’ve joined an elite club! I hope this event will help dispel the myth that sometimes exists that disabled people need to be wrapped in cotton wool!”

Capability Scotland, Director of External Affairs, Richard Hamer, added: “We are delighted to have been able to work with our sponsor, Bowmore, to stage this terrific challenge.  Not only will the event help raise vital funds to support disabled people at home, at work and in school it will also hopefully demonstrate just what can be achieved when disabled people are given the opportunity to explore and enjoy every part of our country, an opportunity which they are not always given.”

Cara Laing, Bowmore Brand Manager said, “Bowmore has always been a champion of nature and the great outdoors so we’re delighted to be supporting Capability Scotland and the team to take on this, the ultimate physical and mental challenge for both non disabled and disabled people. We’ll be taking part in the challenge and waiting at the bottom of the mountain to give each of the participants an extra special dram. It would be great if our friends can show their support by digging deep and helping to raise our fundraising goal of £100,000.”

Front: Rosie Smith, Back left – right, Johanthon McNeil, Victoria Sparrow, John Keenan, Gail Taylor, Michael Gaffney Photo credit Michael Dickie

Please  visit www.capability-scotland.org.uk/bennevis. 

You can also follow us on facebook http://www.facebook.com/CapabilityScotland

and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/capability_scot.

Notes

Capability Scotland

Capability Scotland campaigns with, and provides education, employment and support services for, disabled children and adults across Scotland supporting them to achieve equality and have choice and control in their lives. www.capability-scotland.org.uk  Capability’s mission is to transform expectations of what is possible and ensure that disabled people achieve equality in all areas of life.

In May 2008 Capability Scotland staged the original Ben Nevis challenge which raised £100,000.

Capability’s Access to Sport survey should that 64% of disabled Scots did not meet government recommended levels of physical activity and 40% felt they could not take part in sports or excersise.  The survey identified a number of barriers including lack of suitability of available activities, lack of support, lack of confidence and negative attitudes, policies and practices.

Bowmore

The best-balanced Islay single malt whisky is the perfect reward after your outdoor experience.

Founded in 1779, Bowmore is the oldest Distillery on Islay, one of the Scottish isles which make up the region known as the ‘Islands’ in the lexicon of Whisky. The other regions are the Highlands, Speyside and the Lowlands. Islay malts are famous for their characteristic smokiness and Bowmore is no exception; we carefully smoke our malt and use skills handed down from generation to generation to craft a perfectly balanced Single Malt.

Bowmore’s adherence to traditional production methods helps to shape the character of our Single Malts. We’re one of only a few distilleries anywhere which still produces its own floor malted barley, hand-turned by traditional wooden malt shovel. For our whiskies we draw water from the Laggan River, with its rich peaty overtones, and it’s the same Islay peat that fires the malt drying kiln.

Bowmore Distillery’s close proximity to the sea is also vital in determining the final character of our spirit. The legendary Bowmore No. 1 Vaults is where most of our whiskies spend their long lives resting quietly in the cool, dark, damp cellars below sea level, oblivious to the waves thrashing the Vault’s sea-facing wall.

They mature in oak casks, previously used for bourbon, sherry or claret, gradually developing rich and mellow flavours.

It’s this combination of peat, barley, sea breeze, water, wood, people and tradition that together create the perfectly balanced warm and smoky character of Bowmore Single Malt Whiskies.

The Bowmore domestic product range:

• Bowmore Legend
• Bowmore 12 Years Old
• Bowmore 15 Years Old ‘Darkest’ (sherry cask finished)
• Bowmore 18 Years Old
• Bowmore 25 Years Old

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY WHISKEYS RECEIVE TOP HONORS IN INTERNATIONAL WINE & SPIRITS COMPETITION

Three Whiskeys Named “Best in Class”

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (Aug. 2011) – Buffalo Trace Distillery once again solidified its standing as the world’s most award-winning distillery with honors from the 2011 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC), results of which were released on July 27. Taking top honors were several Buffalo Trace whiskeys, including:

· Gold Medal, Best in Class—Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey

· Gold Medal, Best in Class—William Larue Weller Uncut, Unfiltered Bourbon

· Silver Medal, Best in Class—George T. Stagg Uncut, Unfiltered Bourbon

Also winning Gold Medals were Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year Old Bourbon, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Uncut, Unfiltered Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, and Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon.

Silver Medal winners include Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Eagle Rare Single Barrel Bourbon, Eagle Rare 17 Year Old Bourbon, and Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 20 Year Old Bourbon.

In total, Buffalo Trace Distillery entered 22 whiskeys in the competition, and 18 of them won awards. Of the Gold Medal Winner, Best in Class for Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey, the judges noted, “… Beautiful structure and enormous surge appears in the full paced finish. A fascinating whiskey.”

The IWSC is the fourth spirits competition Buffalo Trace Distillery has entered this year, bringing the grand total of medals awarded to the Distillery to 82 for this year alone.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is a family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The distillery’s rich distilling tradition dates back to 1787 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee. Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won seven distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Malt Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. It was named Whisky Magazine 2010 World Icons of Whisky “Whisky Visitor Attraction of the Year.” Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 200 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotrace.com.

Quality in Quantity as Chivas Brothers Whiskies Scoop Top Awards at the International Wine and Spirit Competition

Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, is celebrating after winning a covetable Trophy, an impressive five Gold ‘Best in Class’ medals and two Gold awards at this year’s prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).

The Glenlivet, the world’s No 2 single malt Scotch whisky, continued its legacy as the original and inspiring single malt by claiming the IWSC Cask Strength Scotch Whisky Trophy for The Glenlivet Founders Reserve. Launched to mark the expansion of The Glenlivet distillery in 2010, the bottling pays tribute to the whisky’s founder George Smith and reflects the year of its foundation with the limited release of just 1,824 bottles.

Further triumph for The Glenlivet came when Gold ‘Best in Class’ medals were awarded to The Glenlivet 18 Year Old and The Glenlivet 21 Year Old Archive. The brand also picked up a Gold medal for its bold and innovative expression, The Glenlivet Nádurra Cask Strength 16 Year Old.

Chivas Brothers’ extensive blended Scotch whisky portfolio also scooped ‘Best in Class’ Golds for Ballantine’s 17 Year Old and Royal Salute 21 Year Old.

Aberlour, a leading single malt Scotch whisky in France, scooped two of the top accolades in the competition, including a Gold ‘Best in Class’ for the Aberlour Double Cask Matured 16 Year Old and Gold for the 18 Year Old expression.

Christian Porta, Chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers, said: “We are delighted with these exceptional IWSC results, which are testament to the quality of our comprehensive portfolio of Scotch whiskies. Recognition from the IWSC’s expert panel of judges not only reinforces our position as an authority within the industry, it also highlights the craftsmanship and dedication of our master distillers and blenders.”

The IWSC was founded in 1969 to promote and reward the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs. Winners are selected following a rigorous two-stage judging process of professional blind tasting and a detailed technical analysis. The competition is backed by a group of vice-presidents made up of the most influential men and women in the trade and a judging panel of industry experts. This year’s competition received entries from almost 80 countries.

Notes:

International Wine and Spirit Competition Results:

The IWSC Cask Strength Scotch Whisky Trophy
The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve 21 Year Old

Gold Best in Class
The Glenlivet 18 Year Old
The Glenlivet 21 Year Old Archive
Aberlour 16 Year Old Double Cask Matured
Ballantine’s 17 Year Old
Royal Salute 21 Year Old

Gold
The Glenlivet Nádurra Cask Strength 16 Year Old
Aberlour 18 Year Old

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.

For further information: Visit: www.chivasbrothers.com

The Kensington Wine Market is proud to announce the official launch a 70 year old whisky at two exclusive tastings: Thursday August 25th and Friday August 26th 2011. These sold out tastings ($200/person), which are being conducted by Michael Urquhart, Co-Managing Director of Gordon & MacPhail, are expected to raise up to $3,500.00 for a local charity. The whisky, Gordon & MacPhail’s Generations Glenlivet 1940 70 Year Old, will be available from the Kensington Wine Market, after August 26 at the price of $21,999.99 for a 700ml bottle and $5,999.99 for a 200ml bottle. The Glenlivet 1940 ties a record, also held by Gordon & MacPhail, for the oldest whisky ever bottled. It will be sold exclusively by the Kensington Wine Market in Canada, along with five other Gordon & MacPhail Glenlivet vintages, one from each of five decades: 1950-1990. Together they are one of the most unique and interesting whisky collections every put up for sale.

More About the Gordon & MacPhail Generations Glenlivet 1940 70 Year

– Bottled after 70 years in a single First Fill Sherry Butt.

– Filled into bottle at 45.9%

– Only 100 numbered 700ml decanters available worldwide; 2 in Canada.

– Only 175 numbered 200ml decanters available worldwide; 10 in Canada

– The hand blown crystal decanters are in the shape of a tear and have a British Hallmarked silver stopper.

– The decanter is cradled in a sterling silver base, in a bespoke Scottish Elm box handmade in Scotland.

More About the Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Decades Bottlings

1. Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Glenlivet 5 Decade Set – 50 Sets Available World Wide– Only 1 set to Alberta – 1 bottle each of the following vintages: 1954, 1963, 1974, 1980 and 1991. – $5664.99

2. Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Glenlivet 1954 – 56 Year – 135 bottles – Only 6 bottles to Alberta – 50.6% – First Fill Sherry Hogshead – Tasting Notes to Come in a Future Malt Messenger – $2193.99

3. Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Glenlivet 1963 – 47 Year – 169 bottles – Only 6 bottles to Alberta – 40.6% – First Fill American Oak Hogshead – Tasting Notes to Come in a Future Malt Messenger – $1325.99

4. Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Glenlivet 1974 – 36 Year – 189 bottles – Only 6 bottles to Alberta – 50.1% – First Fill Sherry Hogshead – Tasting Notes to Come in a Future Malt Messenger – $923.99

5. Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Glenlivet 1980 – 30 Year – 61 bottles – Only 3 bottles to Alberta – 48.5% – Refill American Oak Hogshead – Tasting Notes to Come in a Future Malt Messenger – $496.99

6. Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Glenlivet 1991 – 19 Year – 203 bottles – Only 6 bottles to Alberta – 54.4% – Refill Sherry Hogshead – Tasting Notes to Come in a Future Malt Messenger – $202.99

More About Gordon & MacPhail

– Located in the north-east of Scotland in the heart of the world famous whisky producing region of Speyside, Gordon and MacPhail is an independent family owned and managed firm which has been bottling Single Malt Whiskies for over 115 years.

– From its humble beginnings as a retailer, Gordon and MacPhail has grown to become a diverse and dynamic company with a number of different business interests today which include the retailing, wholesaling, exporting, bottling and distilling of single malt Scotch whisky.

– Owned by the third and fourth generation of the Urquhart family, Gordon and MacPhail celebrate family values, embracing the philosophy that the future is shaped by what is done today and today is represented by what has been done in the past.

– In 1993 nearly 100 years after its founding the company fulfilled a long-time goal of acquiring their own distillery, Benromach.

More About Michael Urquhart – Co-Managing Director of Gordon & MacPhail

– Michael is part of the third generation to own and manage the 115 year old company. The 4th generation of the Urquhart family has also entered the business.

– A Chartered Accountant, Michael is responsible for the Finance and Export functions at Gordon & MacPhail.

– Since 2007 he has also taken over the responsibility for Whisky Production and Supply within the business.

– In 1999 he was made a Keeper of the Quaich in recognition of services of promotion of Scotch Whiskies worldwide and continues to travel extensively in this respect.

More About Kensington Wine Market

– One of the first private liquor stores in Canada.

– The doors opened on Friday, May 15, 1992, two-and-a-half years before the provincial government fully privatized the sale of alcohol.

– Richard Lindseth, a Calgary architect, and local businesswoman Nancy Carten, formed a partnership which became the Kensington Wine Market.

– We have grown from a small family of 4 employees to a larger one of 20 dedicated oenophiles, beer and whisky experts.

– From our humble origins we are recognized as one of the most respected liquor stores in Canada.

– Up to 1/3 of our wines are exclusively imported, we have an impressive selection of import and micro brewed beers and our whisky selection is second to none in the country.

o We select and bottle our own casks of whisky.

o Stock 40+ exclusive whiskies.

o And specialize acquiring the most rare and unique whiskies to find their way into Canada, like these Glenlivets.

More About Andrew Ferguson – Kensington Wine Market’s Scotch Whisky Expert

– One of Canada’s most respected authorities on Scotch whisky.

– First Canadian retailer to be inducted into the Keepers of the Quaich, and one of only 12 Canadians to be honoured by the organization.

– Has helped Kensington Wine Market become one of the most well known specialist whisky shops in North America.

– Writes a whisky newsletter distributed to nearly 5,000 recipients.

– Conducts tastings and Master Classes all over Canada.

– Organizes and leads week long small group premium Whisky Tours in Scotland.

More About Gold Medal Marketing and Andy Dunn

– Andy is one of the most well known promoters of Scotch whisky in western Canada, having spent the last 17 years working in the privatized Alberta liquor market.

– Andy started Gold Medal Marketing in 2000 after a number of decades working in various facets of the Western Canadian liquor industry.

– For his service to the Scotch Whisky industry Andy Dunn was made a Keeper of the Quaich (one of fewer than a dozen in Canada) in 2008.

– Gold Medal Marketing represents more than 125 brands in Alberta and is specialized in Scotch whisky, representing:

1. Gordon & MacPhail

2. Benromach

3. Springbank

4. WM Cadenhead

5. Tullibardine

6. Kilchoman

7. And others.

Morning dew now appearing – time for an Hakuro cocktail

London  August 2011: Some are excited to see the first appearances of morning dew, others become slightly depressed because summer is becoming just a memory.

With their 24 seasons the Japanese have just the answer, time to mix two very appropriate cocktails for the month of September. These are from a range of seasonal cocktails created by Zoran Peric, Suntory Brand Ambassador.

Hibiki Hakuro is the cocktail to banish the blues or to celebrate the coming of the cooler seasons when dew appears.

Hakushu Shuubun will repeat the effect in the second half of September, time of the Autumn Equinox.

Hakuro – when the white morning dew appears

That fall in temperature is the wake-up call for an Hibiki Hakuro cocktail.

Hibiki Hakuro : 50ml Hibiki 17 Year Old Blended

Malt whisky

50ml Sugarcane juice

2.5ml Milk thistle

Pour ingredients over ice, stir thoroughly

Serve in a chunky highball glass

Garnish with a twist of orange

Shuubun – the time of the Autumn Equinox

For that balance between celebration or banishing the blues try an Hakushu Shuubun.

Hakushu Shuubun: 50ml Hakushu 12 Year Old

Single Malt whisky

20ml Yuzu juice

20ml Gomme syrup

1 Egg white

Shake ingredients thoroughly and pour into a cocktail goblet

Garnish with lemon twist

Suntory Japanese whiskies are world beaters having won more than 60 international awards since 2003 and whisky lovers have taken to them. There is something about their subtle aromas and delicate flavours which appeals to the palate whether taken neat, over ice or in cocktails.

Hakushu 12 year old Single Malt whisky and Hibiki 17 year old Blended Malt whisky are firm favourites in Japan and here in Europe. Taste them at their best in the Hibiki Hakuro and Hakushu Shuubun cocktails above.

Note: Pronouncing Suntory names

Yamazaki – (Ya-ma-zarkee)

Hakushu – (Ha-koo-shoe)

Hibiki – (Hi-bi-kee)

Yamazaki single malt whiskies are available from: Selfridges, Harvey Nicols, The Whisky Exchange, independent specialist retailers and www.drinkon.com priced from:

Hakushu 12 year old £52

Hibiki 17 year old £70

The Yamazaki range of single malt whiskies from Suntory is distributed in the UK by Cellar Trends. For all sales enquiries contact: sales@cellartrends.co.uk

Ballantine’s Extends its Lead as Europe’s Favourite Whisky and becomes a Major Hit on YouTube

According to the latest data published by IWSR* Ballantine’s has reinforced its position as No 1 selling Scotch whisky in Europe and No 1 whisky overall for the region. Ballantine’s grew volume in Europe in 2010, selling 4m cases, extending the lead to over 600,000 9L cases versus the No 2 competitor.

Over 70 million bottles of the world No 2 Scotch whisky were purchased in the last year, ranging from the ever popular Ballantine’s Finest and Ballantine’s 12 Year Old to the brand’s comprehensive aged blended Scotch whisky range, which makes Ballantine’s the No1 ultra premium whisky in Asia Pacific.

According to Peter Moore, Global Brand Director for Ballantine’s, “The brand’s continued popularity across Europe and worldwide is down to a mix of proud heritage and consistent, multi-award winning quality together with dynamic and engaging marketing initiatives that resonate with Ballantine’s drinkers.”

The recent success of Ballantine’s has been driven by the hugely acclaimed and distinctive global marketing campaign ‘Leave an Impression’, which was initially launched in more than 100 countries. Phase 2 was rolled out in 2010 with the ‘Plan Ballantine’s’ communication platform, which focuses on Ballantine’s Finest.

This year Ballantine’s Finest launched a major digital campaign ‘The Human API’ on Facebook. The campaign video received a viral response with over 1 million views on YouTube when it showed an artist tattooing a client live on Facebook. During the four hour session, fans took part in some of the creative decisions and the resulting tattoo featured a QR code that linked to an animation – a first in tattooing.

Ballantine’s also launched a creative TV advertising campaign across Latin America and pan-Europe, entitled Transformation, which inspires people to ‘change their plan and leave an impression’.

Ballantine’s has also continued high profile golf sponsorships like the Ballantine’s Championship in Korea and the Barclay’s Scottish Open, which are particularly popular with drinkers of the brand’s aged Scotch whisky range.

Notes:

* International Wine & Spirit Research’s Database 2011

Ballantine’s
Ballantine’s is the No 1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the No 1 ultra-premium whisky in Asia Pacific, selling more than 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 80 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 iconic 30 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.

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 with a portfolio that includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth Gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport.