Press Releases

LATEST COLLABORATION FROM BENROMACH CREATES MODERN TAKE ON DISTILLERY WORKWEAR

LATEST COLLABORATION FROM BENROMACH CREATES MODERN TAKE ON DISTILLERY WORKWEAR

–Reworked 348 design distiller’s jacket using handmade techniques —

Benromach has blended the worlds of fashion and whisky to reimagine the workwear jacket traditionally worn by distillery workers over past centuries. And those who love the design – not to mention the award-winning single malt – can secure a limited-edition garment for themselves.

Created in partnership with Reworked 348, based the Derby, England, the design of the new ‘coverall’ jacket was directly influenced by the distillery team at Benromach. Their brief was brought to life by Reworked 348’s head designer Sally Harnden. Handmade techniques, handed down through the generations, were then used to create the finished garments, mirroring Benromach’s ethos to making their award-winning single malt whisky.

Similar coverall, or ‘chore’, jackets have been worn by distillery workers for centuries. But similar styles have recently seen a comeback in men’s contemporary workwear and utility trends, with people appreciating the workmanship and quality delivered by handmade products. As the name suggests, Reworked 348 tend to use recycled materials, with each Benromach jacket individually deconstructed and reconstructed from workwear originally made in the 1990s.

Created using traditional workwear construction, the distiller’s coverall jacket – made from 100% cotton herringbone in black with accents of Benromach red – provides essential durability and breathability for a working environment that can get hot. With functionality at the forefront of the brief, the jacket is equipped with two diagonal pockets for quick access and an inner pocket ideal for tools.

Safety features, such as cuffs that can be both buttoned and rolled up, as well as cleverly concealed front buttons have been thoughtfully integrated into the design. In an authentic black, the jackets provide practicality with a smart and stylish twist.

Murdo Mackenzie, Production Manager at Benromach, said: “Reworked 348’s approach aligns perfectly with ours in terms of using traditional handmade skills to create something special. It was great for them to come up and see us at work in Speyside, and then for me to visit their studio to create a product of great quality and character – just like our whisky.”

Sally Harnden, from Reworked 348, added: “Our goal is to bring products to life in authentic ways, with great attention to detail. So, when Benromach approached us, there was an immediate, natural fit. We are very proud of the end result and will be sitting down for a well-earned dram when the design is revealed to the world and people have the opportunity to buy one for themselves.” 

The Benromach Distiller’s Coverall Jacket (£130) is handmade to order from the Reworked website [reworked348.com], with a small number of jackets available at the distillery visitor centre, in Forres, Speyside.

For more information on Benromach Distillery, please visit: www.benromach.com/reworked-348

About Benromach Distillery

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

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

Their processes honour the knowledge and experience used to make Speyside whiskies decades ago, because at Benromach they believe making whisky by hand delivers genuine character. For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

About Gordon & MacPhail

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

About Reworked 348
Reworked 348 was launched in February 2020 by a small collective of industry professionals. While the product will always come first, the team couldn’t ignore the negative impact the “regular” production cycle has on the planet and its inhabitants. That’s why they chose a different path. By avoiding the use of new and virgin materials wherever possible, they focus on being creative with what already exists—whether it’s reworking authentic vintage workwear or searching out “new” dead stock fabrics yet to be cut.

Every product is proudly made in the UK, each with its own unique history and story to tell.

R6 DISTILLERY Introduces “Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles,” A Vintage Label Single Barrel Cask Strength Whiskey Line

R6 DISTILLERY Introduces “Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles,” A Vintage Label Single Barrel Cask Strength Whiskey Line

Los Angeles, CA — R6 DISTILLERY in El Segundo, California, announces the release of a brand-new whiskey line, the “Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles,” a single barrel cask strength whiskey.  This whiskey comes from select stocks of the distillery’s 2019 and older barrels, marking a new project under the guidance of Seth Benhaim, Strategic Advisor and Director of Business Development for the distillery.

Benhaim, known for his innovative work with Broken Barrel Whiskey, is recognized for his unique approach to barrel aging.  His development of the “Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles” project represents his first independent whiskey launch since creating Broken Barrel.  His role includes overseeing the selection process of both barrels and buyers alike – finding perfect pairs, and providing operational consultation, ensuring direct involvement from production through to each barrel’s release.

The whiskey is predominantly available through a limited number of online retailers and whiskey clubs, including Drammer’s Club, Taster’s Club, Blind Barrels, and Great American Craft Spirits, among others.  Available barrel options include whiskey aged a minimum of five years, Blue Corn Bourbon, Single Malt, Bourbon, and Rye.  The whiskey released in 2024 will all have been distilled, aged and bottled in El Segundo, just one mile from the Pacific Ocean.

R6 DISTILLERY, founded by Rob Rubens, is a veteran-owned business that places a strong emphasis on community engagement.  R6 is also recognized as “LA’s First Bourbon®”, i.e. the first legal Bourbon in Los Angeles, making the distillery an obvious match for the historic label.  Rubens was the master distiller at the time for all barrels being offered for the Stock Exchange Club of Los Angeles.

For inquiries regarding single barrel options, contact Seth Benhaim at seth@r6distillery.com.

About R6 DISTILLERY:  Located in El Segundo, California, R6 is a family and veteran-owned and operated distillery by founder Rob Rubens.  The distillery focuses on producing a range of craft spirits using both traditional and innovative production methods.  In addition to creating quality spirits, R6 is dedicated to supporting veterans through their partnership with Soldier’s Best Friend.

Bacardi Invests in Future of Premium Scotch Whisky With Multi-Million Pound Distillery and Warehousing Investments – Scotch Whisky News

Aultmore Distillery

Bacardi Invests in Future of Premium Scotch Whisky With Multi-Million Pound Distillery and Warehousing Investments

Glasgow, United Kingdom, October 31, 2024 – As the trend for premium Single Malt and Blended Scotch whisky continues to gain momentum, family-owned Bacardi is investing in the future of the category with the completion of several improvement projects at its production sites across Scotland.

Most recently, the company added three new state-of-the-art aging warehouses at its 200-acre blending and maturation centre, Poniel in southeast Glasgow. The warehouses utilize a more efficient design which increases capacity by over 15%, and in turn, additional jobs have also been created at the site.

Meanwhile, at Aultmore Distillery in Speyside, a multi-million-pound expansion project was completed last month to improve efficiency and safety and install new technology to help reduce energy and water consumption on site. Most significantly, the distillery now uses Thermal Vapor Recompression (TVR) technology which captures, compresses and reuses vapor in the distillation process to improve energy and water efficiency.

A new boiler has also been installed to have the capacity to switch to hydrogen fuel in the future – a move that would reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the distillery.

The improvement project which has taken almost two years of careful planning and design, includes a new Tun room, still house, boiler house and closed loop cooling tower.

Founded by local businessman and philanthropist, Alexander Edward, Aultmore Distillery has been producing top quality whisky since 1897. The well-loved single malt whisky is an award-winning brand that is now sold around the world. AULTMORE® Oloroso Sherry Cask 25-Year-Old, Travel Retail Exclusive was awarded Whisky of the Year at the International Whisky Competition 2024.

Work has also been underway at Macduff Distillery, the home of THE DEVERON® Single Malt. Last year, Bacardi completed significant site improvements to overhaul the mashing equipment, create a new air-conditioned control room, and drive energy and water savings by implementing high gravity mashing.

“Our investment in Aultmore and Macduff distilleries and our Poniel blending and maturation centre is an important step in the bold plans we have for our premium and ultra-premium whiskies. We are so proud of the exceptional quality of our award-winning Scotch whiskies and are investing in its growth for the long-term.”

Keith Hogg, VP Supply Chain, Europe, Bacardi

The Bacardi portfolio of single malt whiskies includes AULTMORE®, ABERFELDY®, ROYAL BRACKLA®, THE DEVERON® and CRAIGELLACHIE®. The DEWAR’S ® brand is also part of the Bacardi portfolio and is the world’s most awarded blended scotch. A family-owned spirits company with more than 162 years of history, Bacardi has operated five distilleries across Scotland – Aultmore, Aberfeldy, Royal Brackla, Craigellachie, and Macduff – for more than 25 years, nurturing and respecting the heritage of each, to produce top quality drinks which are rooted in the traditions of the local areas.

Drink Responsibly.

About Bacardi Limited
Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S® Scotch whisky, D’USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 162 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 8,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit www.bacardilimited.com

Diageo Unveils The YunTuo Single Malt Whisky Distillery in China – Chinese Whisky News

Diageo Unveils The YunTuo Single Malt Whisky Distillery in China

Diageo Unveils The YunTuo Single Malt Whisky Distillery in China

ERYUAN, 15 NOVEMBER 2024, — Diageo, the world’s leading whisky producer and premium beverage alcohol company, today unveiled the YunTuo 云拓Single Malt Whisky Distillery in Eryuan County, Yunnan Province, opening an exciting new chapter for Chinese whisky and further cementing Diageo’s position as a whisky leader in China.

With an investment of US$120 million (RMB 800 million) that will span nine years, the YunTuo云拓Single Malt Whisky Distillery is Diageo’s first whisky production site in China and represents the Group’s ongoing commitment to provide Chinese consumers with the finest products and contribute to the sustainable and innovative development of China’s beverage alcohol sector.

“This stunning new distillery marks a significant milestone for Diageo in China and reflects our confidence in the future of Chinese whisky,” said Debra Crew, Diageo’s CEO. “We are proud of the leading role we have played to grow whisky in China with our iconic brands. Our ambition is to combine our global heritage and whisky making craftsmanship with deep local insights to create the highest quality China-origin single malt whisky that will fire the imagination of whisky enthusiasts worldwide and place China firmly on the global whisky map.”

The name ‘YúnTuò’ 云拓 expresses the brand’s natural surroundings and vision; ‘Yún’ (云) meaning ‘clouds’ and synonymous with ‘Yunnan’, evokes a highland of unparalleled natural beauty. ‘Tuò’ (拓) meaning ‘exploration’ captures the brand’s spirit of enterprise and innovation to explore new frontiers in the art of whisky making.

At 2,100 metres above sea level, the distillery benefits from a temperate climate, rich biodiversity and natural resources, including access to fresh spring water that feeds the region’s pristine Erhai highland lake. This unique terroir will provide YunTuo 云拓 with abundant raw materials to innovate, such as Yunnan oak for cask maturation, and other local ingredients.

Drawing on Diageo’s 200 years of whisky heritage, YunTuo 云拓 will be crafted by a team of remarkable young talents led by Distillery Head Jiao Changyi, who will in time become the next generation of Chinese whisky masters. This journey of creativity and exploration will be supported by globally renowned whisky legends Jim Beveridge OBE, Master Blender Craig Wallace, and Master Distiller Andrew Millsopp, who will bring their rich experience and knowledge to the process.

Designed by award-winning architects OLI, the state-of-the-art distillery incorporates local cultural elements and blends seamlessly into its surroundings, complementing the area’s natural beauty. The distillery also features a visitor centre which will immerse whisky lovers and tourists in an interactive Chinese whisky experience including a holistic tour of YunTuo’s 云拓 production, craftsmanship, tasting, gifting and cultural elements, and culminating in the centrepiece 29 metres high whisky barrel tower decorated with 1,000 original used whisky barrels from iconic distilleries around the world. The visitor centre will in time become a popular tourist destination which will contribute to the development of the local tourism economy.

Reinforcing the Diageo Spirit of Progress sustainability action plan’s commitment to grain-to-glass sustainability, the YunTuo 云拓 distillery is 100% carbon neutral thanks to sustainable production technologies such as highly efficient electric boilers, and the sourcing of renewable green energy. All production water is recycled for industrial purposes, maximising water use efficiencies and reducing waste.

Diageo has established a local Community Fund to promote inclusion and diversity around the distillery, and a new community centre is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Partnering with the Tourism Association in nearby Dali, the Fund is also supporting business and hospitality skills training for young adults under Diageo’s Learning for Life programme, improving local employment opportunities for over 600 graduates.

Debra Crew concluded, “The beauty of Eryuan has inspired us to build this wonderful beacon of local whisky culture that will make YunTuo the pride of Chinese whisky and a jewel in our global whisky portfolio. We look forward to an exciting journey filled with adventure, exploration and discovery.”

To find out more about the Distillery please visit: https://youtu.be/q6w5fVo09RM

About Diageo:

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

More Orkney than ever – Highland Park News

More Orkney than ever

Edrington’s Highland Park is stepping into the light with a new look for its existing range of 12-, 15- and 18-year-old award-winning single malt whiskies, inspired by the natural beauty and creative spirit of its home in Orkney.

Rolled out globally from October 2024, the reinterpreted design marks a new dawn for the centuries-old distillery, as it celebrates the many ways in which its unique Orkney provenance and community inspires it to make a different kind of whisky.

Highland Park was founded 226 years ago in Orkney, an archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It’s a place that’s not only renowned for its craft heritage, wealth of neolithic art and visionary adoption of renewable energy strategies, but also its awe-inspiring natural environment, defined by dramatic coastlines, long summer days and spectacular sunsets.

The warming waters of the Gulf Stream create a temperate climate that’s ideal for the long aging of whisky. Trees find it difficult to grow in Orkney’s windy weather, meaning the islands’ peat is infused with floral heather, rather than woody roots. This peat is used to create a distinctive whisky with a subtle hint of aromatic smoke that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world.

It’s this unique natural and cultural context that gives Highland Park both its distinctive ethos and its distinctive award-winning flavour.

The new packaging design pays tribute to Orkney’s ethereal light and invigorating climate in its fresh, bright and contemporary colour palette, while nodding to Highland Park’s unique flavour with heather-flecked labels bearing the updated logo. The brand’s dedication to craft and creativity is celebrated in a subtle wood-grain pattern inspired by its dedication to using the finest sherry-seasoned oak casks, while its distinctive glass bottle shape has been updated to allow the natural colour of the whisky, derived entirely from the cask, to shine through. Further celebrating the whisky’s unique provenance, a “Product of Orkney” icon has been proudly cut into the glass.

As part of the redesign, Highland Park is also launching new packaging across the global travel retail exclusive editions of 14-, 16- and 18-year-old whiskies that tell stories of the land, sea and sky of Orkney, with packaging featuring subtle bands of colour inspired by each strata.

Highland Park’s Global Brand Director, Paul Condron, said, “For Highland Park, everything comes back to Orkney, from how we craft our whisky, to how it gets its distinctive taste, to the incredible community of people, who do things their own way. We’ve been here for more than 200 years, and the beauty and creativity of our island home continues to inspire us, as well as the unique flavour of the local heathered peat, which, with the new packaging design, is now celebrated, front and centre. We’re excited to share this new design direction for Highland Park, which truly reflects the freshness and modernity of our Orkney home.”

Highland Park’s Master Whisky Maker, Gordon Motion, said: “Our 12- , 15- and 18-year-old whiskies sit as the heart and soul of Highland Park. It’s Orkney’s heathered peat that gives us our subtly smoky flavour and it’s as unique as the place it’s made. We know that’s what our community really love about Highland Park. With the packaging update, we have a great opportunity to celebrate a new look, whilst continuing to share the distinctive, consistent whisky we’re famed for. It’s a flavour that just can’t be replicated anywhere else in the world.”   

As part of Highland Park’s continued commitment to sustainability, the redesign will see the new bottles contained within 100% recyclable cardboard cartons, made from FSC-certified forests.

Available online at www.highlandparkwhisky.com and at the Highland Park Store in Kirkwall, Orkney, Highland Park 12-year-old has an RRP of £46, Highland Park 15-year-old, an RRP of £95, and 18-year-old a RRP of £140.

HOUSE OF HAZELWOOD & HEDONISM WINES UNVEIL THE ULTIMATE WHISKY FOR HEDONISTIC PALATES – Scotch Whisky News


HOUSE OF HAZELWOOD & HEDONISM WINES UNVEIL
THE ULTIMATE WHISKY FOR HEDONISTIC PALATES

The Pursuit of Pleasure, 52 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, available exclusively
to pre-order from Hedonism Wines now

Bottle shot of The Pursuit of Pleasure, 52 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, available exclusively from Hedonism Wines

House of Hazelwood and the purveyors of fine spirits, Hedonism Wines, have come together to create whisky’s answer to the definition of Hedonism: The Pursuit of Pleasure, a 52 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky.

In a literal ‘pursuit of pleasure’ the Hedonism team travelled to House of Hazelwood’s Speyside home in search of the perfect blend. Drawing on whisky from deep within the Gordon family’s private collection,

a panel of Hedonism’s finest experts spent days with House of Hazelwood whisky makers sampling hundreds of parcels of whisky in search of finding the components to create the ultimate blend.  The result is The Pursuit of Pleasure, a 52-Year-Old Blended Scotch Whisky, matured in a combination of American White Oak and European Sherry Casks. ​

For almost one hundred years, generations of the Gordon family have carefully laid down stocks of whisky for special occasions and consumption. The result is they have accumulated the greatest inventory of rare Scotch Whisky in the World, which is today is known as House of Hazelwood.

Eilidh Muir, whisky blender for House of Hazelwood, at a blending session with the Hedonism team at their London store in Mayfair. (credit: John Paul Photography)

The Hedonism team spent time working hand-in-hand with Eilidh Muir, Blender and the House of Hazelwood team to perfect the blend. From visiting the private dunnage warehouses to sample directly from the cask to holding blending sessions allowing the team to directly input into the final recipe.  The result is a truly hand-selected limited edition bottle that is not only a delicious addition to any spirits cabinet but also a true collectors’ items, never to be repeated.

“To be invited to sample whisky from the family’s private collection is every whisky connoisseur’s dream”, said Tom Olive, Assistant Spirit Buyer from Hedonism. “Our aim was simple: to produce a blend of pure indulgence. The result is a whisky that can be described as “decadence decanted”. This whisky is dense on the nose, with sticky jam sweetness, offset against leathery tannins and orange zest. The smoking charcoal balances the sweetness, with a barley sugar character making its way through.” 

To celebrate the launch, House of Hazelwood and Hedonism Wines, held a bespoke six-course tasting dinner at the Michelin-starred HIDE restaurant, part of the Hedonism Group. The menu, which was created by chef Ollie Dabbous, paired each course with a House of Hazelwood whisky to reflect the flavours presented within this hedonistic blend. The dinner marks the start of an exciting partnership with HIDE to host House of Hazelwood consumer events within the coming months.

Commenting on the partnership with Hedonism, House of Hazelwood Director Jonathan Gibson, said:

“Making a truly exceptional whisky takes decades of patience but thanks to our extensive aged stocks the journey from cask to bottle can be navigated within a matter of months. Given the breadth and depth of our stocks which spans every corner of Scotland, our bespoke blend offering allows us to work closely with partners and private individuals to uncover whisky stocks and flavours to create something truly special that match their creative vision.”

With just 72 bottles of The Pursuit of Pleasure available exclusively from Hedonism, this limited edition is on pre-order from 21st October. 

House of Hazelwood – The Pursuit of Pleasure – Tasting Notes and Product Details 

The Pursuit of Pleasure, 52-Year-Old Blended Scotch Whisky, xx% ABV, 72 bottles worldwide, UK RRSP £4,000 

Presenting The Pursuit of Pleasure, a collaborative endeavour in the alchemy of blending with Hedonism Wines, a 52-Year-Old Blended Scotch Whisky, matured in a combination of American White Oak and European Sherry Casks. ​​

Nose: The nose is dense, the sticky jam sweetness almost palpable. Saddlery workshops cut through the sweetness, with hints of furniture polish and leather apparent, before a zingy zest of burnt orange takes the floor. ​​

Palate: The palate is lively, with more sweetness echoed in an effervescent barley sugar character. Light oak and vanilla make wonderful bedfellows, setting the scene for a long, lingering finish of gently smoking charcoal embers upon a barbecue. ​

About House of Hazelwood

For almost one hundred years, generations of the Gordon family have carefully laid down stocks of whisky for special occasions and personal consumption. This rare collection has become known as House of Hazelwood, after the family’s Dufftown home – Hazelwood House.

Today, the House of Hazelwood collection has grown to become the greatest inventory of aged Scotch whisky held anywhere in the world. Spanning seven decades and every corner of Scotland, the diverse whiskies held in cask tell stories of remarkable places, lost ways of working, first casks, last casks, the ambitions and achievements of several lifetimes – none of which will be repeated.

The House of Hazelwood inventory is held in several carefully selected warehouses across Scotland, with fresh stocks laid down each year. Prior to bottling, a small proportion of the stocks are held in traditional dunnage warehousing near Dufftown in Speyside, from where they are carefully monitored and sampled ahead of release.

Website: www.houseofhazelwood.com

Facebook & Instagram: @HouseofHazelwoodScotch

 About The Hedonism Group

The Hedonism Group is a unique collection of Mayfair dining and drinking establishments which encompasses Hedonism, the original namesake wine & spirits store on Davies Street; the Michelin-starred HIDE restaurant on Piccadilly; renowned cocktail bar, The Bar Below; Hideaway, an all-day boutique café at 100 Mount St; and finally, The White Horse, a London wine bar, tucked just off Shepherd Market.

Hedonism Wines was founded in 2012 as an emporium of fine wines and spirits. The dedicated team of passionate enthusiasts work tirelessly with customers to find sought after bottles, including some of the rarest in the world.

In April 2018, in partnership with renowned chef Ollie Dabbous, HIDE and The Bar Below opened on Piccadilly. In just 6 months, the restaurant went on to achieve 1 Michelin Star; an accolade it has retained for the last 6 years. Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner, seven days a week, HIDE showcases the best of seasonal ingredients with much of the menu made in-house, from charcuterie, bread, jams, juices & pickles. In addition, the extensive wine list reflects the cellars of Hedonism, with well over 5,000 bottles on offer.

Website: https://hedonism.co.uk/

Facebook & Instagram: @Hedonism Wines / @hedonism_wines

Chivas Regal 18 unveils sleek new look: 25% lighter glass bottle, same award winning taste – Scotch Whisky News

Chivas Regal 18 unveils sleek new look: 25% lighter glass bottle, same award winning taste

Blended Scotch whisky, Chivas Regal, has unveiled a sleek new look for its award-winning Chivas Regal 18. Featuring a 25% glass weight reduction on its flagship 70cl bottle and fully recyclable outer packaging[1], the elevated, redesigned bottle – housing the same award-winning Scotch – reaffirms not only Chivas Regal’s dedication to luxury, but also its wider commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

From this month, whisky enthusiasts around the world will experience Chivas Regal’s award-winning blend in its elevated new look. The updated bottle features a taller, prouder silhouette with rounded shoulders, and a jewel-like, layered, and multi-faceted label. The iconic Luckenbooth, a traditional Scottish symbol that embodies Chivas Regal’s heritage and values, is now positioned at the heart of the label, and embossed into the glass base. The classic Chivas Regal shield and crossed spears – now embossed into the glass for a more refined and luxurious look – signify protection and loyalty, reflecting the brotherhood of James and John Chivas, whose entrepreneurial spirit set the groundwork for the world’s first luxury whisky.

In addition to the lighter bottle, the updated – and now fully recyclable – carton features opulent gold detailing and a gold-coloured tin lid, finished with Chivas Regal Master Blender Sandy Hyslop’s signature in gold lettering. The flagship 70cl bottle’s reduction in glass weight will result in significant environmental benefits, estimated to save over 500 tonnes of glass annually based on FY24 volume sales[2]. The new design brings Chivas Regal 18 in line with Chivas Regal 12, which unveiled a contemporary new look in 2021, and follows the transformations of Chivas Regal Extra and Chivas Regal XV.

Nick Blacknell, Chivas Regal Global Marketing Director at Chivas Brothers, commented:

“At Chivas Regal, we are committed to continuing to premiumise our brand while making meaningful strides in sustainability. The new Chivas Regal 18 bottle not only showcases our dedication to luxury with its refined design but also highlights our ongoing efforts to reduce our environmental impact. By reducing our glass weight and transitioning to fully recyclable outer packaging, we are taking significant steps towards a more sustainable future. We are thrilled to present this elevated look to whisky enthusiasts around the world, reflecting both our heritage and our commitment to long-lasting positive change.”

The new look Chivas Regal 18 will be rolling out globally from this month. For more information, visit www.Chivas.com or follow us on Instagram @ChivasRegal.

[1] Fully recyclable in markets capable of recycling carton & metal

[2] Total 70cl glass saving based on FY24 volume sales – 513.6t

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Welcomes Chicken Cock Whiskey as Newest Member – Kentucky Whiskey News

Kentucky Distillers’ Association Welcomes

Chicken Cock Whiskey as Newest Member

168-Year-Old Brand Resurrected in Bardstown

FRANKFORT, KY.— The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced Bardstown’s Chicken Cock Whiskey as the newest member of the non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

A historic brand dating back to 1856, CEO and Founder of Grain & Barrel Spirits, Matti Anttila, rediscovered the brand in 2012. It was fully revived in 2017 through a collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company.

The distillery opened in 2024 and is located at 103 East Stephen Foster Avenue just off the town square. Chicken Cock Whiskey proudly boasts a diverse portfolio of offerings, a brand home and micro-distillery named Circa 1856 in Bardstown, Ky., and a production operation. Circa 1856 showcases the brand’s portfolio through tastings, cocktails, and single pours.

Antilla said that joining the KDA is a milestone to celebrate.

“As we join the KDA, we join a network of distillers that have cherished and refined the traditions of Bourbon-making, just as we have with Chicken Cock Whiskey founder James A. Miller’s vision,” he said. “We look forward to building on our brand’s long history as we build up Kentucky Bourbon.”

A Class B licensed distiller, Circa 1856 can produce 2,000 gallons annually using a 30-gallon still. Its brands include a Kentucky straight rye, a small batch Bourbon, and a double oak whiskey, alongside annual and exclusive releases.

Learn more about Chicken Cock Whiskey at chickencockwhiskey.com.

KDA President, Eric Gregory expressed his excitement as the KDA community grows.

 “As Chicken Cock Whiskey enters the fold, we are thrilled to see our membership expanding as excitement around Kentucky Bourbon flourishes. Bourbon continues to build Kentucky and add additional flavors, experiences, and opportunities.

“We are honored to welcome Chicken Cock to our family of Kentucky’s finest distillers.”

Nelson County boasts eight distilleries that create more than 4,600 Bourbon careers with $273 million in payroll. Each year, distilling in Bardstown generates about $2.8 billion in economic impact and more than $36 million in local and state taxes.

From a regional standpoint, Nelson and its surrounding counties have 13 distilleries responsible for nearly 8,000 jobs and a $470 million payroll. Bourbon brings to the area an annual economic impact of $5.2 billion and nearly $65 million in local and state tax revenue.

The Bourbon Capital region also welcomes more than 700,000 visitors to the KDA’s famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour each year, pouring even more money into local hotels, restaurants, shops, and government coffers.

Bardstown is one of four official Gateway sponsors of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®. There are six KBT® distilleries in Nelson County. As a KDA member, Chicken Cock Whiskey will be eligible to join the Bourbon Trail™.

Gregory said, “With more distilleries and new opportunities for tourism, Bourbon is creating more reasons for visitors from around the world to spend time and money in our state and our local communities.

“Kentucky Bourbon has a powerful and growing global impact, and the KDA is proud to be respected as the worldwide voice for Bourbon.”

Chicken Cock Whiskey joins the KDA as a “Craft” level member, aging between 1 and 1,000 barrels per year. Visit the KDA and its Kentucky Bourbon Trail® adventure at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon™.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon™. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s timeless craft. Kentucky Bourbon is a $9 billion economic engine generating more than 23,500 jobs and attracting over 2 million visits annually through the KDA’s Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experience. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

DOUGLAS LAING’S BIG PEAT RELEASES CASK AGED BOULEVARDIER COCKTAIL – Not Quite Whisky News

DOUGLAS LAING’S BIG PEAT RELEASES CASK AGED BOULEVARDIER COCKTAIL

Douglas Laing – independent Scotch Whisky Blenders, Bottlers and Distillers – is excited to announce their latest creation: a premium hand crafted, small batch cask aged cocktail, the ‘Big Peat Boulevardier’.

Building on the success of the renowned Big Peat Islay Blended Malt brand, the Big Peat Boulevardier promises to delight fans of both classic cocktails and Islay whiskies. This exceptional small batch creation bursts with smoky, sweet, and bitter notes, offering a unique twist take on the classic Boulevardier.

The Big Peat Boulevardier has been aged in a single ex-Big Peat Islay cask before being bottled at 29.5% ABV, with only 450 bottles available. This limited release showcases the classic Islay peat smoke and sweet Malt notes, perfectly balanced with rich spices, oak, and a touch of bitterness.

Created with providing an easy serve in mind, all that is required is to simply pour over ice, stir, garnish with an orange peel and enjoy our take on this iconic cocktail.

Commenting on the Big Peat Boulevardier, Chloe Wood, Big Peat’s Brand Manager, said:

“Working on the creation of the Big Peat Boulevardier has been a fantastic experience. Staying true to the brand roots of Big Peat – highlighting his connection to Islay and the Malts that make up the Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whisky – while bringing this to life in cocktail form was incredibly enjoyable.

The Boulevardier is well respected within the cocktail community, and using top-tier components in its creation was always a priority. The specific recipe highlights the elements that make Big Peat so special – Islay smoke, fruitiness, and an overall depth of flavour. When combined with the classic bitter style of a Boulevardier, these qualities are showcased beautifully.

We hope this small-batch cocktail will be a hit with fans of the Big Peat brand, as well as those looking to try something unique in the lead-up to the festive season.”

Big Peat’s Cask Aged Boulevardier will be available online on douglaslaing.com from 1st November 2024, carrying an RRP of £28.00.

ABOUT DOUGLAS LAING & CO.

www.douglaslaing.com

Douglas Laing & Co. is a leading independent Scotch Whisky distillery, blender and bottler specialising in the selection and release of Single Cask Single and Small Batch Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The company was founded by Fred Douglas Laing in 1948 and is still owned and run by the Laing family – Fred Laing Jr and his daughter Cara Laing.

The company philosophy is to bottle the way the distiller intended – at a high strength and without chill filtration to preserve the robust and unique character of the Whisky. Douglas Laing’s industry reputation and many awards are a testament to this ethos.

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay).

Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old, Xtra Old Particular, and XOP Black, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.

Heaven Hill Takes Home Most Awarded U.S. Distillery, Top Honors at 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition – American Whiskey News

Heaven Hill Takes Home Most Awarded U.S. Distillery, Top Honors at 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

More than 90 medals were presented to Heaven Hill including multiple Best in Show wins across the portfolio of brands

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (October 15, 2024) – Heaven Hill is proud to have been the named the Most Awarded U.S. Distillery by the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition, as well as the recipient of multiple Best in Show wins in the Bourbon and Spirits categories. Category wins include Best Single Barrel Bourbon – 11 Years & Older to Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel, Best Straight Bourbon to Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923, Best Wheated Bourbon to Larceny Barrel Proof A124, Best in Show Unaged White Spirit and Best Mezcal going to Mezcal Vago, and Best Hard Tea to Deep Eddy Vodka.

“We’re honored to be recognized on a global stage by the San Francisco World Spirits Competition,” said Kate Latts, Co-President and third generation family member of Heaven Hill Brands. “Building beloved brands has always been a hallmark of Heaven Hill’s portfolio and we’re very grateful for these awards recognizing our commitment to authentic, high-quality products in the craft that we do.”

The two most awarded Bourbons from the Heaven Hill Distillery portfolio were Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. Each brand took home 7 and 6 medals, respectively, with the highest distinctions of Best Straight Bourbon going to Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923, Best Single Barrel Bourbon – 11 Years & Older to Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel, and Double Gold going to Evan Williams Bottled-In-Bond. Larceny Barrel Proof A124 was also honored as the Best Wheated Bourbon. Other big wins came from FEW and Widow Jane who collectively took home an additional 12 medals.

The leadership of master distiller Conor O’Driscoll contributes greatly to the multitudes of praise for Heaven Hill. Under his guidance, Heaven Hill continues its nearly nine decades of unwavering commitment to quality whiskey production and aging. This high standard has been a hallmark of Heaven Hill since it was founded by the Shapira family in 1935 and continues to apply today to a stock that includes more than two million barrels.

Honored with Best in Show Unaged White Spirit along with Best Mezcal, Mezcal Vago is a collection of fine, traditional mezcals from deep within the southern mountains of Oaxaca, made by multi-generational producers – artists in their own right. Vago provides one of the most diverse assortments of mezcal available, representative of four producer styles and a multitude of agave varietals, both cultivated and wild. The brand was also recently named Best of Category and received Double Gold as well as an award for Packaging Excellence at this year’s New Orleans Spirits Competition.

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition was founded in 2000 and has become a premiere tasting competition judging more than 6000 spirits this year. All spirits were tasted over four days through a controlled blind tasting by expert panelists. No information on brand, producer, or price point is given out prior to tastings to ensure each is judged fairly and without bias. For more information on the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, check out the website at www.thetastingalliance.com.

ABOUT HEAVEN HILL BRANDS: Founded in 1935, Bardstown, KY -based Heaven Hill Brands (www.heavenhill.com) is the nation’s largest independent, family-owned and led spirits producer and marketer, the world’s second-largest holder of Kentucky Bourbon, and a 2024 Best Managed Company as appointed by Deloitte Private and the Wall Street Journal. Heaven Hill’s diversified portfolio of brands includes Heaven Hill, Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, Old Fitzgerald, and Henry McKenna Bourbons; Rittenhouse Rye Whisky; Deep Eddy Vodka; Admiral Nelson’s Rum; Black Velvet Canadian Whisky; Lunazul Tequila; HPNOTIQ Liqueur; Carolans Irish Cream Liqueur, plus the Samson & Surrey portfolio.

Heaven Hill reminds you to “Think Wisely.  Drink Wisely.”


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