www.mcleanscotland.com    Scottish Whisky Tour Specialist

WHISKY WITH ICE

After the Olympics McLean Scotland are now back on the ice with their Curling & Whisky “Lion Challenge”  This is a fun curling event in Perth (October 2010) with plenty of whisky!  Part sponsored by Dewar’s World of Whisky, all competitors will be visiting the distillery on the the tour and enjoying a special tasting at the hotel with Dewar’s. The curling is a fun challenge so anyone can join in, a single person or teams.  Follow the web link for all details.  Booking now.

MCLEANSCOTLAND are recognised as one of the best (if not the best) whisky tour companies in Scotland.

www.mcleanscotland.com/2010whiskycurlingcomp.asp

Paul’s whisky tour was outstanding. He took the time to show us some of the country we would otherwise never have seen. Lamont took over on Islay and continued what Paul had commenced. We not only saw a beautiful country, but also learned a great deal about its colorful history and culture. The B&B on Islay at Bowmore was one of the most charming I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying with its view of the sea. Inveraray had a bar with a truly impressive selection of highland malts.  Just across the street they had a malt store which carried an impressive selection of malts. I was fortunate to find a rare malt I had been looking for without success. I would not hesitate to recommend this trip to anyone. Canada.

HIGHLAND PARK UNVEILS GLOBAL TRAVEL RETAIL RANGE

The makers of The Best Spirit in the World* has launched a new Highland Park Vintage Editions range exclusive to Global Travel Retail, consisting of four single malt whiskies distilled in 1998, 1994, 1990 and 1973. Every new expression of Highland Park is eagerly anticipated by trade and consumer alike but the launch of an entire range is unprecedented for the Orcadian distillery.

According to Max McFarlane, Whisky Maker: “The starting point for this range was to look into our maturing stocks to find sherry seasoned casks which would showcase different dimensions of the classic Highland Park profile of honey sweetness and aromatic peat. I am delighted to have identified specific vintage years with exceptional casks.”

The differences between the expressions lie in the extent to which first-fill or refill European and American Sherry oak casks have been used. The 1998 and the 1990 Vintages emphasise the smokier notes whilst the 1994 and the 1973 highlight the sweeter characteristics.

Jason Craig, Global Controller of Highland Park, adds: “Global Travel Retail has been nothing short of phenomenal for us with 88% growth over the last five years; I am confident this stunning new range will allow us to maintain our dynamic performance in this channel and maintain our position as the world’s most respected single malt.”

The stunning packaging complements the liquid and draws on Orkney’s Norse heritage; the design on the front of the oak box takes the form of the complex woodcarvings in the characteristic ‘gripping beast’ style seen on the Oseberg ship, the oldest and most beautiful vessel of the Viking age. The outstanding craftsmanship has provided inspiration for the design of the packaging of this exceptional whisky for today’s intrepid travellers.

The Duty Free recommended retail prices are; 1998 Vintage €46 (1l), 1994 Vintage €65 (70cl), 1990 Vintage €99 (70cl) and 1973 Vintage €750 (70cl). The range will be available from April/May 2010.

– Ends-

Issued by The BIG Partnership on behalf of Highland Park

www.highlandpark.co.uk

www.drinkaware.co.uk

*F. Paul Pacult, Spirit Journal, 2005 & 2009

Tasting Notes

Highland Park 1998 Vintage 40%

With an emphasis on first-fill American oak Sherry casks in its maturation, this vintage reveals the smoky side of Highland Park, attributable to the distinctively aromatic peat from Hobbister Moor. The yellow accent of the packaging is inspired by the Orkney sun which, at midsummer, never sets.

Colour:                 Rich, golden, clear and bright.

Aroma:                 Opaque honey, dried grass with ginger spicy notes. Dried apricot emerges late.

Palate:                  The vanilla and honey sweetness developed from a dozen years in American oak is perfectly balanced with the emergence of the aromatic heather peat smoke. Sweet notes of cinnamon and cashew nuts emerge.

Finish:                   Sweet with medium lingering spice and smoke.                

Highland Park 1994 Vintage 40%

This vintage has luxuriated in the most expensive casks; a higher proportion of first-fill European oak Sherry casks have imbued the whisky with a rich, dark colour which is mirrored by sweetness on the palate. The crisp blue of the label reflects the deep sea and big sky of Orkney.

Colour:                 Rich, warm, amber hue.

Aroma:                 Warm caramel to the fore coupled with hints of almonds. Dark fruit, including cherries and figs, are slowly revealed as the whisky opens up.

Palate:                  Caramel and soft smoky notes intertwine with cinnamon and rich dried fruits.   

Finish:                   Beautifully mature with a lingering, warming smoky finish.

Highland Park 1990 Vintage 40%

A slight increase in the proportion of first-fill European oak Sherry casks underlines the balance between sweetness and smoke for which Highland Park is renowned by whisky enthusiasts the world over. In essence, this expression is a bridge between 18 year old (The Best Spirit in the World*) and 21 year old (World’s Best Single Malt, World Whisky Awards 2009). The light green tones on the packaging represent Orkney’s fertile farmland.

Colour:                 Golden, glowing coppery tones.

Aroma:                 Orange peel, honeycomb with cedar wood and rich fragrant spicy notes; nutmeg with a hint of cloves coming through.              

Palate:                  Mouth-watering citrus in the form of lemons and oranges, sweet vanilla custard notes wrapped in subtle yet complex spices at the end.

Finish:                   Medium sweet with lingering smoky spiciness.

Highland Park 1973 Vintage 50.6%

When laying down a whisky for extended maturation, as with this Vintage, there is a danger the cask may dominate the spirit. Every time a cask is used, its ability to impart an influence on the spirit is diminished, which is why at Highland Park refill casks are used for the older whiskies. The refill casks specially selected for this Vintage allow the natural characteristics of Highland Park to come through; there is no over-dominance of cask. This Vintage is un-chill-filtered and completely natural colour (as are all Highland Park whiskies).

Colour:                 Rich, warm and naturally golden.

Aroma:                 Complex aromatic layers emerge as this whisky reveals itself. Vanilla and toffee sweetness are evident; enticing floral notes and hints of heather are followed by dried citrus fruits, nutmeg and coconut.           

Palate:                  The assertive citrus notes are balanced by the layers of caramel, cinnamon and soft floral flavours. The slight oak tones are first balanced and then swept aside by the late arrival of classic Highland Park spicy smokiness.        

Finish:                   This whisky lingers, a clear reminder of the complexity that Highland Park is able to deliver. It is medium sweet, with a long smoky finish.

Notes to Editors

Established in 1798, Highland Park is one of the oldest Scotch whisky distilleries. More important than age though, is the combination of traditional whisky-making techniques with obsessive attention to detail that has made Highland Park arguably the most respected single malt in the world.

Five keystones contribute to making the Best Spirit in the World:

Hand-turned malt adds to the deliciously succulent, balanced layers of aromatic character found in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.
Aromatic peat gives a delectably seductive, luxuriant floral sweetness to Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

Cool maturation enhances the smooth character of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

Sherry oak casks contribute to the distinctive richness and multi-dimensional complexity of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.
Cask harmonisation ensures consistency and balance in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.
 

Awards and accolades

2010 Global Whisky Ambassador of the Year – Gerry Tosh, Icons of Whisky Awards, Whisky Magazine

2009 World’s Best New Release – Highland Park 40 year old, World Whisky Awards, Whisky Magazine

2009 Single Malt of the Year – Highland Park 21 year old, World Whisky Awards, Whisky Magazine

2005 & 2009 Best Spirit in the World – Highland Park 18 year old, F. Paul Pacult, Spirit Journal

2007 Distiller of the Year, San Francisco World Spirits Competition

MEDIA INFORMATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 NEW APPOINTMENT AT GLENGLASSAUGH DISTILLERY CO.
 “EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE” IN ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT – ON-LINE SALES TO BE DEVELOPED

The Glenglassaugh Distillery Company is delighted to announce the appointment of RONNIE ROUTLEDGE as the company’s new Customer Account Manager, with effect from 6th April 2010.

Mr Routledge joins an established management team at the distillery, which restarted production in December 2008, with the responsibility of developing Glenglassaugh’s existing importer, distributor, wholesaler and retailer relationships and growing new business.

He joins from his current role as UK Retail Manager for Duncan Taylor & Co of Huntly. Previously, he spent some 15 years with Gordon & MacPhail of Elgin.

Glenglassaugh MD Stuart Nickerson said “I anticipate that Ronnie’s huge experience and knowledge of the single malt market will prove of immense value in the next stage of our development of our brands. He will also bring his experience and expertise in whisky retailing to Glenglassaugh and maximise the value of our recently-launched on-line shop.”
“Glenglassaugh is exactly the new challenge I have been looking for,” said Routledge “and I think that the potential here is remarkable. It’s exciting to get involved in the renaissance of such a great distillery.”

In a parallel development, consultant Ian Buxton will relinquish his part-time strategic marketing role at the end of April, after two years working with the company. “We would like to thank Ian for his contribution to the early development of Glenglassaugh,” said Nickerson “and look forward to seeing him often at the distillery.”

“This has been an immensely positive and exciting and experience and I look back with real pleasure and pride on my association with Glenglassaugh,” commented Buxton. “I will watch future developments with great interest.”

END

About Glenglassaugh

Glenglassaugh Distillery was founded in 1875 by local entrepreneur James Moir. Seeking a steady supply of high quality Malt Whisky for his Wine and Spirits business, he built his own Distillery at the foot of the Glassaugh burn.
Purchased by Highland Distilleries in 1892, Glenglassaugh was re-built in 1960 producing continuously until 1986 when it was mothballed.

However, a change of ownership in 2008 has seen the distillery re-furbished with an investment of more than £1m, and Glenglassaugh has reopened with a distinguished distilling team, once again producing a renowned spirit.

Since reopening, Glenglassaugh has won a number of awards in its first year of operation and a variety of exciting new products have been released including the Octave and 250 Club private cask sales programmes.

For more information, please visit www.glenglassaugh.com

NEWS RELEASE: 16th March 2010

THE MACALLAN TOASTS GLOBAL SUCCESS AS FINE OAK 21 YEARS OLD WINS ULTIMATE TROPHY

The Macallan Fine Oak 21 Years Old Single Malt scooped the top prize, the esteemed Ultimate Spirits Challenge Chairman’s Trophy, at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge.

Following four stages of competitive judging over the course of three days, Ultimate Spirits Challenge Chairman’s Trophy winners were arrived at based on their aggregate score on the 100-point scale.  The Macallan Fine Oak 21 Years Old scored the highest marks – 97.

Ken Grier, Director of Malts, The Edrington Group, commented: “This fantastic award reinforces The Macallan’s position as a producer of world class premium Single Malt Scotch whisky.  It is an outstanding accolade for the brand and testament to the quality and craftsmanship that goes into making our Single Malt. 

“This award is particularly important as the competition is based on integrity, method and credibility, all of which is embodied in The Macallan Single Malt, the world’s most precious whisky.”

This Fine Oak is unique in being triple cask matured; it’s the most successful launched product in Single Malt and now accounts for about 1 in 4 of every glass of Macallan sold around the world.

In addition, Highland Park 18 Year Old Single Malt, The Macallan 1824 Collection Select Oak and The Macallan 1824 Collection Estate Reserve had the distinction of all reaching the semi-final and were awarded ‘extraordinary and ultimate recommendation’ in their categories.

The Ultimate Beverage Challenge’s (UBC) inaugural Ultimate Spirits Challenge, which was held in New York on 1-3 March, was established by renowned American beverage alcohol critic F. Paul Pacult.  More than 520 entries were received from companies worldwide, but only a dozen were awarded the USC Chairman’s Trophy as the highest scoring spirits of their category.

 – Ends –

For further information or photography, please contact:

Linda Edstrand / Sarah McDonald, The BIG Partnership

Tel: 0131 555 5522

Email: linda.edstrand@bigpartnership.co.uk; sarah.mcdonald@bigpartnership.co.uk

Please savour responsibly www.drinkaware.co.uk

Notes to editors

The Macallan Fine Oak 21 Years Old

This legendary Single Malt is triple cask matured for a minimum of 21 years, in a unique, complex combination of exceptional oak casks, Spanish oak casks seasoned with sherry and American oak casks seasoned with bourbon.  This triple cask matured combination delivers an extraordinary smooth, delicate yet complex Single Malt.

Tasting notes:

Colour: Light Amber

Nose: Intense and rich, with a hint of vanilla and passion fruit

Palate: Soft, rich and spicy with a hint of oranges and peat

Finish: Lingering, with a hint of wood smoke

ABV: 43%

RRP: £119

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Did you know….

…The Irishman Irish Whiskey is now available in 29 countries around the world?

…that well known whiskey writer Jim Murray rated The Irishman 93 out of 100 in his Whisky Bible 2010?

To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland’s national holiday, we would be delighted to send a miniature (50ml) of The Irishman Irish Whiskey (Potstill or Single Malt) to each whisk(e)y club to let you nose and taste our excellent whiskey. If you’re interested, drop us an e-mail with full mailing address and the name of your whisk(e)y club (you’ll understand that we need to limit this offer to one miniature per whisk(e)y club for logistical, packaging and postage cost reasons).

 
Sláinte!

                                                                               www.thehotirishman.com

PRESS RELEASE

March 15th 2010

Raising the Bar – The Macallan Introduces the Ice Ball Serve

The ice or water debate has long remained a fiercely contested subject amongst whisky drinkers and The Macallan has thrown its hat into the ring by creating an innovative serving method expressly for those who like their whisky with ice.

Believing the perfect serve to come down to personal preference, The Macallan has pioneered the Ice Ball Serve.  It is the first real move by any whisky brand in the UK to present whisky in an innovative, contemporary fashion and open the doors to a growing adult population that regards ice as an integral part of the spirit-drinking experience.

The Ice Ball Serve is based on the Japanese tradition of serving hand-carved ice with ultra-premium spirits.  The ice ball press instantly creates a flawlessly formed sphere of ice that adds a touch of theatre and sophistication.

The Macallan’s Marketing Assistant, Pat Lee, explains the science part: “The Ice Ball Press was inspired by Japanese cocktail culture where artisans hand-carve ice balls from massive slabs to create an uninterrupted surface that cools spirits quickly and evenly.  The ice ball melts slowly to preserve the integrity of the spirit.  We have updated this process, by developing a copper press that instantly trims a block of ice into a flawless ice ball.  This, combined with our masterful single malt Scotch whisky, is The Macallan Perfect Serve.

“The Macallan’s liquid excellence is continuously defined by its unprecedented elegance and versatility. The ice ball balances these qualities. As global cocktail culture has evolved, ice has become central to the modern-day spirits experience.  With an eye on this trend, we created The Macallan Perfect Serve, to modernise the way single malt can be enjoyed and appeal to a wider range of consumers.”

In essence; The Macallan ice ball serve takes this traditional practice to the ultimate level, with a single perfect sphere of ice, a unique beautiful serve with the benefits of maximum chill with minimum dilution.

Enjoy the perfect ice-ball serve at the following bars and restaurants:

London:

Rules                                 

The Ritz Hotel                                 

Claridges                                        

The Connaught Bar, The Connaught Hotel, London

The Dorchester Hotel, London

Hawksmoor

50 St. James

Milk & Honey

Artisian Bar, The Langham Hotel

Quo Vardis

Boisdale Belgravia     

Blue Bar   

The Ivy Club

The Lanesborough Hotel

The Albannach Bar                

Scotland:

Balmoral Hotel

Tiger Lily, Edinburgh

The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews

29, Glasgow

Blythwood Hotel (Glasgow)           

Dean Bar (Edinburgh)                      

Caledonian Hotel                             

Yorkshire:

Oulton Hall, near Leeds, West Yorkshire                             

– Ends –

For further information or photography, please contact:

Linda Edstrand / Sarah McDonald, The BIG Partnership

Tel: 0131 555 5522

Email: linda.edstrand@bigpartnership.co.uk; sarah.mcdonald@bigpartnership.co.uk

Please savour responsibly www.drinkaware.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITORS:

The timeless reputation of The Macallan is founded upon Six Pillars:

The Spiritual Home

Easter Elchies House proudly watches over The Macallan distillery in Speyside, Scotland. Built in 1700, this Jacobean manor house is The Macallan’s spiritual home.

Curiously Small Stills

The Macallan’s curiously small and uniquely shaped copper stills help to concentrate the flavour of the ‘new make’ spirit.

The Finest Cut

The ‘cut’ is the amount of distilled spirit collected from the stills as ‘new make’ spirit. The Macallan takes one of the finest ‘cuts’ of any distillery in Scotland; typically just 16% goes forward to fill or our casks. 

Exceptional Oak Casks

The Macallan’s unfaltering obsession with selecting exceptional oak casks brings an unsurpassed, timeless quality to The Macallan.

Natural Colour

The Macallan insists upon Natural Colour. It is the interaction of spirit and wood alone which delivers the rich variety of colour, aroma and taste evident through out the range.

Peerless Spirit

The Macallan remains the single malt against which all others must be judged. It is celebrated far and wide by experts and discerning drinkers as the world’s most precious whisky.

HIGHLAND PARK AMBASSADOR AWARDED PRESTIGIOUS GLOBAL ACCOLADE

Highland Park’s Gerry Tosh was named Global Whisky Ambassador of the Year at the prestigious Icons of Whisky Awards organised by Whisky Magazine at the Hurlingham Club in London last week (Thursday 25 February).

The result is based on the Scottish winner’s passion and knowledge of the industry which is unparalleled in his commitment to the role of educating people across the world about Highland Park and how to nose and taste ‘the water of life’.

Born in Dundee, 35 year old Gerry Tosh has worked with the Highland Park since 2001 and has shared his knowledge with both Highland Park drinkers and the internal workforce by travelling the world as well as creating a boot camp style training, held at the Kirkwall distillery, for the brand’s ambassadors.

Gerry Tosh, Highland Park Head of Brand Education, comments: “I’ve travelled over 90,000 thousand miles over the last 12 months, meeting people from all over the world.  I take people on a journey of discovery; they may know a little about whisky or nothing at all but by the end they always have a better appreciation, understanding and a newfound love of the craft of whisky making and its exquisite taste.  This gives me such a great thrill, which is made all the better by knowing that I have created this new love affair with Highland Park brand.”

Jason Craig, Global Controller, Highland Park, commented: “We are extremely proud of Gerry and his win. Icons of Whisky recognises the very best people and places in whisky throughout the world and this accolade highlights the considerable amount of time and effort that Gerry and the team have invested to grow Highland Park globally.

“The Orcadian malt has enjoyed record sales and over the past four years Highland Park global sales have soared by 80 per cent, selling over 110,000 cases a year, and entered the world’s top 10 single malt Scotch whiskies.”

Additionally, Highland Park’s Earl Magnus Edition 1 bottling was awarded Best Island (Non Islay) Single Malt Whisky at the World Whiskies Awards last week. Gerry Tosh was instrumental in selecting this successful 15 year old cask strength expression which was sold out within 48 hours of being released at the end of last year.

Highland Park has won a string of other prestigious awards across its portfolio. Its 18 year old single malt Scotch whisky was crowned ‘best spirit in the world’ for the second consecutive time last year by leading US independent whisky expert Paul Pacult in the Spirit Journal’s Top 115 Spirits in the World.

Awards also include ‘best new whisky release of the year 2009’ for its 40 year old single malt and ‘best whisky in the world 2009’ for its 21 year old expression in the World Whisky Awards.  The brand also won four double gold awards in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2009, four ‘gold best in class’ awards for its 12, 18, 25 and 40 year old expressions in the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2009 as well as a gold medal and three silver medals in the International Spirits Challenge 2009.

-Ends-

 Issued by The BIG Partnership on behalf of Highland Park

For further information or photography, please contact:

Linda Edstrand / Pamela Wils, The BIG Partnership

Tel: 0131 555 5522, 07717 875 227

Email: linda.edstrand@bigpartnership.co.uk or Pamela.wils@bigpartnership.co.uk 

Please enjoy our brand responsibly.
www.highlandpark.co.uk

www.drinkaware.co.uk

Notes to editors:

Five keystones contribute to making the Best Spirit in the World:

·         Hand-turned malt adds to the deliciously succulent, balanced layers of aromatic character found in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Aromatic peat gives a delectably seductive, luxuriant floral sweetness to Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Cool maturation enhances the smooth character of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Sherry oak casks contribute to the distinctive richness and multi-dimensional complexity of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

·         Cask harmonisation ensures consistency and balance in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.

Biography – Gerry Tosh, Head Of Brand Education

Gerry Tosh (35) is Head of Brand Education for Highland Park, recently named ‘Best spirit in the world’ for the second time.  He is responsible for building relationships with the international drinks trade and consolidating the brand’s profile around the world, especially in important export markets such as North America and Northern Europe.

Gerry joined Highland Park as their first global brand ambassador from the brand’s worldwide distributor Maxxium some 7 years ago.  Previously he also worked for Highland Distillers and has worked continuously in the whisky industry since 1997.

Gerry was the youngest male to be asked to be a “keeper of the quaich” and was recently named one of whisky magazine’s Icon’s of whisky, winning “Scotch whisky ambassador of the year”.

Gerry’s role involves spending half of his time abroad, travelling as far east as Japan and as far west as Alaska.  He has been in climates where the temperatures reach +44 degrees Celsius and -44 degree Celsius. 

Additional info:

•            Age – 35 years old

•            Has hand picked many single casks for sale around the world including the “Ambassadors cask” series

•            Was a Sales Development Manager for Highland Distillers and then Maxxium

•            Played rugby for Scotland at youth level against Ireland and Spain

•            Keen golfer

•            Job entails delivering training and education seminars around the key markets for Highland Park

•            Favourite Highland Park is the 1977 Bicentenary

Pamela Wils

Account Executive

The Big Partnership

Suite 4/3, Great Michael House, 14 Links Place, Edinburgh, EH6 7EZ

Tel: 0131 555 5522
Mob: 07825 567 808
Fax: 0131 554 3742
www.bigpartnership.co.uk

Whisky Rating Launches New Forum for Sample Trade
 
On March 8, 2010 whisky-rating.com – a blog focused on concise tasting notes and ratings for all kinds of whisky – has launched a forum extension to their site dedicated to non-profit trading of whisky samples.

Registered users can list whiskies that they wish to offer for swapping or for sale on a per-sample basis. They also have the option of sharing entire bottles among other forum users as well as a possibility to list requests for specific whiskies. Also included in the forum is a section for the discussion of general whisky topics.

The Two Benefits of Trading Whisky Samples

1. Many whisky enthusiasts strive to taste as many different whiskies as possible. Obviously this is a difficult and costly task when you have to buy a whole bottle of each whisky you taste. Trading samples allows whisky lovers to maximize the number of whiskies that they can taste while minimizing the financial burden.

2. Trading samples is also an interesting option for less ambitious whisky drinkers. Acquiring whisky samples by swapping or purchase gives them a chance to try a specific whisky expression before making their buying decision for an entire bottle.

http://www.whisky-rating.com/

Oliver Klimek, owner of whisky-rating.com
Oberschleissheim, Germany, March 8, 2010

Purveyors of the world’s most exclusive range of Scotch Whiskies

“The most impressive merchant bottling portfolio we have ever seen.”
                           Overview of Duncan Taylor & Co Whiskies

Peerless

Single cask, natural cask strength, all a minimum of 40 years, therefore some of the oldest whisky in the world today. Highly exclusive and yet great value compared with cost of distillery bottlings of same age.

Rarest of the Rare Collection

This range comprises of Single Malt, single cask  whiskies from distilleries now dismantled, never to replenish again, from all regions of Scotland.

Rare Auld Collection

Single Malt, single cask and Single Grain whiskies of outstanding quality from each of Scotland’s prime whisky producing regions. Each whisky is bottled naturally, without chill filtration or the addition of artificial colouring.

Premium Blends

These award-winning blends consist of a marriage of the finest Single Malt and Single Grain Scotch whiskies from select distilleries. Branded as a Rare Auld 38yo Blend and Black Bull Blends bottled at 12, 30 and 40 years of age.

Lonach Collection

A very mature stock at natural strength but instead of one cask, they are perhaps two of same age, same distillery married together, Single Malt but more than one cask. Lonach is the Highland Games meeting held annually in Royal Deeside, Scotland.

NC2 Range

These whiskies must demonstrate the exact character of the distillery and have an abundance of flavours. Every whisky bottled in the NC2 range is in it’s natural form without chill filtration or the addition of artificial colouring. Typically NC2 range is aged 10-16 years.

Battlehill

Our collection of youthful Single Malt whiskies, bottled between 6 and 10 years old. Battlehill is named after the famous 16th century clan battles in Huntly, Scotland.

Octave & Quarter Cask Range

These smaller casks allowing an exclusive 70 or 150 bottles to share with family, friends or business colleagues. Available for bottling under a private or corporate brand.

Brief History

Founded in 1938 and based in Huntly, Aberdeenshire, in Scotland’s largest whisky producing region, Duncan Taylor & Co is renowned for the quality and range of its casks of rare auld single malt and single grain scotch whiskies.

Originally based in Glasgow, Duncan Taylor & Co has ownership of one of the largest privately-held collections of rare Scotch whisky casks in the world. The company has been laying down casks from premium Scottish distilleries for decades and has, in recent years, made its branded products available to whisky connoisseurs throughout the world.

In 2002, the company was acquired from American owners by Euan Shand.

Upon acquisition, the business ceased brokering whisky casks to concentrate on producing its own brands of Scotch whiskies. The company’s fine casks can be found maturing throughout the whole of Scotland.

About Duncan Taylor & Co Independent Bottler

Duncan Taylor & Co is an Independent bottler, meaning they are not a distillery and do not produce whisky but bottle whisky under their own brand name. Independent bottlers tend not to concentrate on producing in bulk and rather concentrate on bottling single casks with the spirit at higher strength, and leaving the spirit natural without being chill filtered or coloured. These collection focus on premium and also some off-the-beaten-track distilleries, unique Single Malts that are bottled at different ages and strengths. Quite a unique experience.

Cask Selection and Gauging

A formal tasting of each cask sample is conducted with strict criteria for colour, nose, taste and finish. From this process only the finest casks are chosen to become Duncan Taylor & Co products. Casks are gauged  periodically during the maturation process.

Samples and Tasting Notes

Cask samples are regularly taken to ensure bottling takes place at the optimum time, demonstrating the best characteristics of the distillery. Detailed records show the warehouse location, distillery, cask number, year and strength.  Hundreds of samples are kept in our tasting room for reference, comparison and evaluation.

Bottling Facilities

With full UK Customs and Excise Bonded bottling and warehousing facilities, Duncan Taylor produces over 500,000 bottles of whisky a year. With an established design, marketing and production operation, the company not only bottles its own brands but provides contract bottling for a number of other distillery companies. Rigorous quality control procedures are in place to ensure that Duncan Taylor’s ethic of unrivalled quality continues to be integral to the high reputation enjoyed by the company’s award winning brands.

Shows and Tastings

Duncan Taylor attends many prestigious whisky events throughout the world in order to support our customers. In addition, we also often host private or professional tastings and carry out market support visits.

Stockists

Duncan Taylor & Co products are stocked in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan,  Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America, Venezuela.

Recent Awards

Whisky Magazine, Icons of Whisky
Independent Bottler of the Year 2009
Whisky Magazine Independent Bottlers Challenge 2009
Overall – Lowland Independent Bottler of the Year
Gold – Lowland, Auchentoshan 1999
Gold – Island, Highland Park, 1991
Bronze – Lowland, Inverleven 1978
Bronze – Lowland, Campbeltown, Springbank 1969
Malt Advocate – Scoring regularly 90-95 points
Jim Murray’s World Whisky Awards 2010
Best Scotch Grain of the Year – North British 1978
International Wines & Spirits Competition 2008
Independence Trophy & Gold (Best in Class)
– Rare Auld Blended 38yo
Silver (Best in Class) – Cameronbridge 1979
Silver – Speyside, Glenlivet 1970
Silver – Highland, Ben Nevis 8yo
Scottish Field Whisky Challenge 2009
Blended Bottling of the Year – Black Bull 30 yo blend
Bronze, Overall Bottling – Black Bull 30yo blend
Scottish Field Whisky Challenge 2008
First Class – Lonach Caperdonich 33yo
Malt Maniacs Awards 2009
Non-Plus-Ultra Award 2009 & Gold– Glen Grant 1972
Silver – Glen Grant 1974
Silver – Glenrothes 1970
Silver – Carsebridge 1979
Bronze – Caol Ila 1982
Bronze – Bowmore 1998

“One of the most precious jewels in the crown of Scottish whisky.” – Dominic Roskrow, Whisky Magazine Independent Bottler Challenge Panel Chairman

Sláinte Mhath!

Gaelic  for  ‘Good Health’ , this phrase is commonly used  as a drinking toast in Scotland.  Scotch Whisky is a drink to be sipped and savoured.
For additional information about Duncan Taylor & Co products, please contact our sales staff at +44 (0) 1466 794055 or email at info@duncantaylor.com.

Duncan Taylor & Co Ltd
4 Upperkirkgate, Huntly,
Aberdeenshire, AB54 8JU Scotland
tel: +44 (0) 1466 794055 
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EVAN WILLIAMS SIGNS ON TO BECOME OFFICIAL BOURBON OF CHAMPIONSHIP BULL RIDING

World’s Second Leading Selling Bourbon Reaches Partnership Agreement with CBR Nationwide Professional Bull Riding Tour

BARDSTOWN, KY—Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the second best selling Bourbon in the world, has signed a deal with Championship Bull Riding (CBR) to become the “Official Bourbon of the CBR”.  Evan Williams, a product of Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc., is already a major sponsor of the BASS Elite Series and BASS Elite pro angler Jason Quinn, but is expanding their sponsorship dollars out into another sport that indexes particularly high against the Bourbon demographic—professional bull riding.

By becoming a major sponsor and the official Bourbon of the CBR, Evan Williams will enjoy exposure to attendees at more than 20 live events nationwide with over 100,000 fans in attendance, plus over 14 million viewers each year through primetime broadcast of CBR events on the Great American Country (GAC) cable network.  Evan Williams, which sold over a million 9-liter cases last year in the United States and internationally, will also enjoy display and sampling opportunities at CBR events.  CBR was founded by bull riding icon Tuff Hedeman in 2004 and bills itself as “The Real Cowboy Sport”, riding a wave of popularity for rodeo events and bull riding in particular.

“Given the high index of bull riding and rodeo sports against the Bourbon demographic audience, we feel that our sponsorship of the CBR and Evan Williams’ status as its official Bourbon will allow us to reach a large and growing audience in a relevant and targeted way,” noted Susan Wahl, Brand Manager for Evan Williams at Heaven Hill.  “With our sponsorship position in professional bass fishing already well-established, we feel that the CBR provides a great environment in which to promote Evan Williams to a different, but equally engaged audience.”

Evan Williams, named after Kentucky’s first distiller and a past winner of “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year” from Malt Advocate magazine, is produced according to a traditional 200 year old recipe by Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, Parker and Craig Beam.  In addition to its sponsorship of the BASS Elite Series and now CBR, Evan Williams runs a multi-million dollar full page advertising campaign in publications that consistently index highest against Bourbon drinkers, such as Sports Illustrated, Rolling Stone, Maxim and Field & Stream.

“We are pleased to have reached a partnership agreement with a producer of such a high quality, uniquely American product,” stated Wes Bruce, CEO of Championship Bull Riding.  “We look forward to a long term relationship with Evan Williams Bourbon.”

About Evan Williams

Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (www.evanwilliams.com) is the world’s second-largest selling Bourbon, named after Kentucky’s first distiller from 1783.  It is produced by Bardstown, KY-based Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc. (www.heaven-hill.com) and made under the careful supervision of Heaven Hill’s father and son Master Distillers, Parker and Craig Beam, who represent the sixth and seventh generations, respectively, of the most famous family in American Whiskey.  Along with Evan Williams, Heaven Hill has a diversified portfolio of brands that includes The Christian Brothers Brandies; Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whisky; Burnett’s Vodkas and Gin; Hpnotiq Liqueur; PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur; Lunazul and Two Fingers Tequilas, and Dubonnet Aperitif.

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

About CBR

Led by bull riding icon, Tuff Hedeman, Championship Bull Riding, Inc. (CBR) is a nationwide professional bull riding tour which airs primetime every week on GAC with over 14 million viewers each year and logging over 300 hours of television annually since 2004.  Every CBR Tour features a two hour show and an adrenaline rush with more than 20 events and over 100,000 fans in live attendance. CBR is home of the REAL COWBOY SPORT and the best bull riders and bulls in the world. We are committed to the riders, the fans, the sponsors, and all those involved in the professional bull riding industry and we live by the words Strength, Stamina, Integrity and Speed.  For more information on CBR, please visit www.CBRbull.com or call us at (817) 626-BULL.

CONTACT: 
Larry Kass
Director of Corporate Communications
Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.
(502) 413-0220
lkass@heaven-hill.com