ARDGOWAN DISTILLERY UNVEILS FINAL WHISKIES IN

AWARD-WINNING CLYDEBUILT SERIES

Ardgowan Distillery has announced the two final additions to its celebrated Clydebuilt whisky series: Anchorsmith and Draughtsman Blended Malt Scotch Whiskies.

The penultimate release in the Clydebuilt series, Anchorsmith combines six distinct whiskies from renowned Lowland, Speyside, and Highland distilleries, each matured in first fill oloroso sherry casks and handpicked by Master Whisky Maker Max McFarlane.

Marking the final chapter of the series, Draughtsman offers a grand finale to savour. This unique blend marries a small parcel of Ardgowan’s oldest hand selected casks – including a 25 year old malt –  with a selection of distinctive eight year old malts matured in first fill oloroso sherry casks.

Max McFarlane, Master Whisky Maker at Ardgowan Distillery,  said:

“Crafted with precision and passion, these limited edition blends pay homage to the rich maritime heritage of the Clyde shipyards, embodying the same dedication to quality and craftsmanship that made ‘Clydebuilt’ synonymous with excellence.

“Anchorsmith is a truly exceptional blend, offering a unique sensory experience with its well-balanced nose of black cherries, lemon drizzle cake and chocolate raisins.  On the palate, expect a full-bodied symphony of ripe dark fruits, roast chestnuts, and pomegranate juice, leading to a long, lightly tannic finish with hints of earl grey tea and orange marmalade.

“Draughtsman consists of malt whiskies sourced from eight distilleries across Scotland, marrying a 25-year-old malt whisky with a handpicked selection of first fill oloroso matured malts, resulting in our most intense and complex whisky to date. Dive into a nose of Ceylon tea, manuka honey, and dark chocolate, leading to a palate bursting with flavours of juicy blackcurrant jam, all spice, and dark red fruits. The finish is a crescendo, starting slow and building to an explosive finale.”

The two new additions join Ardgowan’s decorated collection of Clydebuilt whiskies, which have won a variety of accolades including a recent Master Medal at the 2023 Spirits Business Global Scotch Whisky Masters and golds at the World Whiskies Awards.

Both Clydebuilt Anchorsmith and Draughtsman are bottled at 46% ABV, with a recommended retail price of £52.99 and will be available for purchase from April 22nd through Ardgowan Distillery’s network of specialist on-trade retailers.

After almost 7 years’ careful planning, Ardgowan Distillery Limited’s ergonomic, energy efficient distillery and visitor experience, which will create up to 47 local jobs and produce up to 1m litres of premium whisky per year, is due to open later this year.

The ambitious plans for the new net-zero distillery include cutting-edge technologies and partnerships with new technology developers to deliver a truly carbon-neutral spirit. The distillery has partnered with Heriot-Watt University and engineers Briggs of Burton to develop technology to capture all of the CO2 in its fermentation process and transform it into green biomethane – a technique which has never been used in a Scotch whisky distillery before.

The innovative distillery design uses low environmental impact composite cladding, timber and steel materials to create a modern Nordic long hall, symbolising resurrection and rising from the ashes of the former Ardgowan Distillery in Greenock, which was bombed during the 1941 Blitz.

For more information, please visit www.ardgowandistillery.com

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Clydebuilt Draughtsman Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

NOSE

Well balanced and distinctive, with notes of black cherries, lemon drizzle cake chocolate raisins,

sesame oil and sticky figs and dates.

PALATE

Full bodied, floral, and plummy – awash with ripe dark fruits, roast chestnuts, pomegranate juice and

overripe bananas.

FINISH

Long and lightly tannic with earl grey tea and orange marmalade.

46% ABV

RRP £52.99

Available from 22 nd April from Ardgowan Distillery’s network of specialist on-trade retailers

Clydebuilt Anchorsmith Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

NOSE

Complex: Ceylon tea, manuka honey, sweet currant scones and marzipan meet candied lemon peel,

dark chocolate, and leatherbound books.

PALATE

Packed with mouth-watering notes: toast with juicy blackcurrant jam, subtle allspice, dark red fruits,

and herbal hints.

FINISH

A one hundred metre dash – a slow start building to super charged, explosive finish.

46% ABV

RRP £52.99

Available from 22 nd April from Ardgowan Distillery’s network of specialist on-trade retailers

About Ardgowan Distillery Company Limited

Ardgowan Distillery Company Limited has full planning permission for the construction of an eco-friendly single malt whisky distillery, gin distillery and visitor centre on the historic Ardgowan Estate near Inverkip, 30 miles west of Glasgow.

Ardgowan Distillery Limited has invested in world-class technologies to put sustainability at the heart of its plans, aiming to become carbon negative. The distillery will begin production in 2024 with capacity to produce up to 1 million litres of premium whisky per year, and the combined facilities will create up to 47 new local jobs.

Visit:                     www.ardgowandistillery.com

Instagram:        @ardgowandistillery

Twitter:              @ardgowanwhisky

Facebook:          @ardgowandistillery

For additional information or to arrange media interviews please contact:

R&B Distillers gets go ahead for Machrihanish Distillery in Campbeltown

R&B also announces the acquisition of a controlling stake in Caskshare.com

William Dobbie, Managing Director of R&B Distillers: “Our Machrihanish Distillery news and Caskshare majority stake puts us on a clear track towards achieving our vision of becoming the leading new wave spirits business in Scotland.” 

Edinburgh, Isle of Raasay, London, 22^nd April 2024 – R&B Distillers has secured planning permission from Argyll and Bute Council for its Machrihanish Distillery, the first farm-to-bottle distillery in Campbeltown in over 180 years. R&B purchased the Dhurrie Farm in Machrihanish in 2021, and having received the green light for the distillery development – starting with whisky production followed by a full visitor experience, shop, and tasting room – will now work with various stakeholders around environmental guidelines and other conditions before beginning construction on the site next year.

The Machrihanish Distillery will deliver a new single malt Scotch whisky for R&B, who already own the award-winning Isle of Raasay Distillery, of which R&B says: “while different in style of spirit and region, will exhibit a similar philosophy around provenance, quality, and community regeneration”.

R&B plans to develop a sustainable net zero distilling model that removes any fossil fuel use from the whisky distilling process, using regenerative, environmentally friendly farming practices and creating greater biodiversity in the surrounding area. Up to 20 new jobs will be created in the region over time, having a positive impact on the local economy.

William Dobbie, Managing Director of R&B Distillers, said: “The rubber stamp for the distillery marks a major milestone on our journey in Campbeltown. When the whisky becomes of age our investment will go beyond production, attracting visitors to the region and supporting the local economy in a similar way to our existing distillery on Raasay.”

“We are excited to be making this investment in Campbeltown and supporting the local economy through jobs and visitors. This milestone has particular significance to our family as my father Bill’s family come from Drumlemble, a small village in between Machrihanish and Campbeltown.”

“We would like to thank everyone who has helped us get to this stage – including Argyll and Bute Council, neighbouring whisky producers Glen Scotia and J&A Mitchell, and most importantly our customers and partners for continuing to support R&B and our brands.”

R&B Distillers is also announcing the acquisition of a controlling stake in Caskshare.com, a global eCommerce platform and bottler of single cask spirits. Caskshare specialises in offering whisky fans single cask whiskies by the bottle, including Scotch whiskies, R&B- owned brands, and world whiskies, and enables producers to sell directly to consumers worldwide. R&B plans to add other cask-aged spirits like rum and cognac over time and will initially target markets in Europe and the United States.

William Dobbie added: “Our Machrihanish Distillery news and Caskshare majority stake puts us on a clear track towards achieving our vision of becoming the leading new wave spirits business in Scotland.”

R&B Distillers reported revenue of £5.0 million in the year ended 31st December 2023, and now sells in 40 markets worldwide after launching the Isle of Raasay Gin in mid-2019 and the Isle of Raasay Single Malt at the end of 2020. The company has set its sights on growing sales to over £25 million in the next decade.

THE MACHRIHANISH DISTILLERY 

The first farm to bottle distillery in Campbeltown in more than 180 years. A different style of whisky from a different whisky region in Scotland to complement our existing Isle of Raasay Single Malt.

Growing barley on Dhurrie Farm and have already malted and distilled some on Raasay.Will be a future special release. Predominantly unpeated spirit being produced and 100% sherry maturation, however using different types of sherry and production two different spirit types – a ‘lighter’ and a ‘heavier’ spirit, one targeting shorter and one targeting longer ageing.

Similar underlying philosophy of provenance, authenticity and community. Planning permission was granted in April 2024. Targeting construction to begin in March 2025 after planning conditions have been addressed. Targeting production starting in 2026 First Machrihanish Single Malt sometime in the future…

BERRY BROS. & RUDD ANNOUNCES CLASSIC RANGE REFRESH
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Berry Bros. & Rudd, renowned as the UK’s oldest wine and spirits merchant, has refreshed its popular range of ‘Classic Single Malt Whiskies’ in a move which cements the brand’s commitment to upholding a legacy of tradition and  innovation.

The Classic Range showcases the essence of various regions and distinct cask styles, each whisky chosen by Spirits Curator Felix Dear, for its enduring quality, then aged in their own casks to their exact specifications.

The existing range, which includes expressions hailing from Islay and Ireland, has now been enhanced with the introduction of age statements for the very first time.  The brand new complex yet approachable Speyside Traditional Cask 16 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky joins the collection accompanied by a luxurious and indulgent flavourful Speyside Sherry Cask 12 Year Old.

Standing alongside the two Speyside Single Malts within the range is the Islay Traditional Cask that embodies the classic characteristics of its region with soft peat smoke and complex fruity palate and the Irish Reserve Single Malt Irish Whiskey with its grassy and herbaceous yet zesty notes hailing from the iconic Great Northern distillery in Dundalk.

Felix Dear, Spirits Curator for Berry Bros. & Rudd, commented:

“The refresh of our Classic Range of Single Malt Whiskies marks a new chapter for Berry Bros. & Rudd. It is the touchstone of our whisky offering for whisky explorers and connoisseurs alike, and testimony to our constant pursuit of excellence and innovation.

All four whiskies in the range have developed distinct intricate flavour profiles, perfect for everyday sipping.  Designed to be complex yet versatile and will pair perfectly with food or if you’re feeling adventurous – great also in a cocktail.”

The Classic Range, featuring Speyside Sherry Cask 12 Year Old, Speyside Traditional Cask 16 Year Old, Islay Traditional Cask and Irish Reserve will be available from Berry Bros. & Rudd (bbr.com) and other selected retailers from the 22nd of April.

TASTING NOTES

Speyside Sherry Cask 12 Year Old

This full, deep, and brooding whisky possesses a wonderfully rich texture, each sip offering a well-balanced and heartwarming experience that captivates the senses. Aromas of sun-dried fruits meld with baking spices. The palate is an exploration of richness, layers of spiced fruit cake and honey toast, hints of brown sugar, orange & dark chocolate add complexity on the finish.

ABV: 45.3%

RRP: £45

Speyside Traditional Cask 16 Year Old

This subtle yet complex whisky presents a blend of butterscotch and hazelnut, with subtle hints of dried flowers and wood bark. On the palate a honeyed sweetness creates an effortlessly enjoyable sipping experience, gradually evolving to reveal an ever-deepening character. A complex yet approachable whisky, perfect for those who appreciate depth and refinement.

ABV: 48.2%

RRP: £100

Islay Traditional Cask

Soft peat smoke characterises this Islay single malt, setting the foundation for its rich, complex profile.  Aromas of smokiness give way to reveal distinctive green orchard fruits.  The palate is an interplay of flavours; sweet honeydew melon interacting with comforting notes of Malted Barley & dry earthy undertones and finishing with sweet smokiness.

ABV: 45.3%

RRP: £45

Irish Reserve

Grassy and herbaceous notes introduce this delightful Irish whiskey, setting the stage with a fresh and invigorating profile. The nose unfolds with a blend of custard cream, lively spice, and zesty lime, deepening into the enticing aroma of succulent, ripe apples. On the palate, a harmonious mix of vanilla and soft fruits creates a creamy, well-rounded sensation.

ABV: 44.2%

RRP: £45

Berry Bros. & Rudd

Tracing its history back to 1698, when an enterprising woman called the Widow Bourne started an “Italian grocers” at No. 3 St James’s Street in London, selling tea, snuff, spices and the most fashionable drink of the day, coffee. In due course, the focus shifted to something a little bit stronger As wine became important to the business, so too did spirits and Berry Bros. & Rudd started bottling casks under its label in the early 19th century, making it Britain’s oldest independent spirits bottler.

bbrspirits.com

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Celebrates Derby Week with Special Whiskey Releases and On-Site Events

“The Greatest Two Ounces in Bourbon” Available in Three Varieties On-Site and Online

FRANKFORT, KY (April 30, 2024) – J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery, created by Jeff Mattingly, a descendant of distilling pioneer John Graves Mattingly, is releasing three whiskeys to celebrate the greatest two minutes in sports, called The Greatest Two Ounces in Bourbon.  The three releases will be available at a festival held at the Distillery in Frankfort on May 3rd and 4th to celebrate Kentucky’s famous horse race.

The Greatest Two Ounces in Bourbon is available as a Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, a  Light (Corn) Whiskey, and a Small Batch Rye Whiskey.  All three bottles are available online and at the Distillery upon opening at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 3rd  at a suggested retail price of $120 for a 750 mL bottle.  Details of each release are as follows:

J. Mattingly 1845 The Greatest Two Ounces in Bourbon Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is a six-and-a-half-year-old bourbon bottled at 117 proof.  After undergoing J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery’s proprietary double staving process, the nose on this bourbon is described as breakfast in a bottle – sweet smoke and bacon with oak and stone fruit.  The palate is said to have brown sugar and pancake, with hints of maple and savory smoke and leather.

J. Mattingly 1845 The Greatest Two Ounces in Light Whiskey is a corn whiskey aged nine years and bottled at 125 proof.  After the Distllery’s signature double staving process, smokey candy, fruit and butterscotch can be found on the nose, and the taste reveals butterscotch upfront with hints of sweet smoke and oak.  The finish is filled with creamy baking spices.

J. Mattingly 1845 The Greatest Two Ounces in Rye is a small batch rye whiskey comprised of a combination of four-and-a-half and six-and-a-half-year-old barrels.  After the double staving process, this whiskey was bottled at 116 proof.  Notes of sweet, earthy maple and bright citrus can be found on the nose.  On the palate, one will find butterscotch and herb notes balanced with sweet citrus which lingers with hints of smoke.

The bottles will make their debut at a festival to celebrate Kentucky’s highly anticipated horse racing event which will include customizable, double-staved mint juleps for purchase, a custom wax station for your mint julep cup, games, outdoor seating and snacks.  The festival will run May 3rd and 4th from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

While on-site, visitors can also enjoy J. Mattingly 1845’s three tasting options, its Heritage Tasting Experience, which is a tasting of up to six pours for $20 and lasts about 20 minutes; the Single Barrel Tasting Experience, allowing guests to taste from up to seven single barrels, each of which has undergone the proprietary double-staving process, for a cost of $55 and lasting for one half hour; and the VIP Custom Bourbon Blending Experience, which allows the visitor to custom blend their own bourbon and choose their preferred bottle shape, custom label and wax color for the top.  This experience is $175 and lasts approximately one hour.  Reservations are recommended for the custom blending experience.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating Kentucky’s famous horse races on Friday and Saturday with our three new whiskey releases and a festival at our new location in Frankfort,” said Harry Richart, president and chief operating officer, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery.  “We’ll have custom mint juleps for sale, you can dip your mint julep cup in wax afterward as a special memento, and also snacks, games, outdoor seating and the races televised so you can hang out here and root for your favorite horse.”

There is no cost to attend the festival on either day.  J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery is located at 20 Reilly Road in Frankfort, Ky.  https://jmattingly1845.com

About J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery

The Mattingly family has been synonymous with distilling in Kentucky for more than two centuries, having a hand in the development of at least nine separate distilleries in the Commonwealth, and with connections to some of the most illustrious names in the distilling industry, including George Garvin Brown, the Willetts and the Samuels.

It all started in 1845, with John Graves Mattingly’s first distillery in Marion County, Kentucky, Registered Distillery #2.  Many historians today believe his distillery was the first registered distillery in Kentucky.

In 2010 Jeff Mattingly took up the family mantle and started his own craft bourbon business.  Today, Jeff’s son Cameron has joined the team as Vice President of Production, continuing the legacy into the latest generation for J. Mattingly Distillery 1845 in Frankfort, Kentucky. For more information about J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery visit www.JMattingly1845.com.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Takes Over London Phone Booth for Special Surprise

“At Buffalo Trace Distillery, we celebrate those who live life perfectly untamed – those who blaze their own trace, those willing to go their own way, those unafraid of the unknown. That’s why we’re challenging visitors in Covent Garden to do the unexpected this coming weekend – answer the call! Those who do just may find themselves embarking on one of the most memorable experiences of their lives,” said Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director at Buffalo Trace Distillery

New research commissioned by Buffalo Trace Distillery revealed that a quarter of Brits rarely do anything spontaneously. Additionally, 40% confirmed they wouldn’t pick up an unexpected call from an unknown number, and 26% prefer to communicate via social media instead of over the phone. That said, one in five revealed that answering an unplanned call had led to something surprisingly good. This call will lead to something good 😊

Just what exactly is on the other side of that call? A guaranteed tasting of some of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s *rarest and most coveted* bourbon for two people at Buffalo Trace Distillery London (before it opens to the public!). The impressive tasting lineup, available only for this special activation, will feature:

1. 1. OFC
   2. George T Stagg
   3. Weller 12 Year Old
   4. Pappy Van Winkle 23 
   5. Eagle Rare 25

• Terms and Conditions:
  • Participants must be 18+ in age. Tastings must be redeemed immediately following the call. *Participants will have 30 minutes to meet at Buffalo Trace Distillery London for their tasting
• Location
  • Covent Garden in the East Piazza, near Russell Street
• Research

• All research quoted taken from research commissioned by Buffalo Trace Distillery with 72Point, surveying 2,000 UK respondents in April 2024. 

Saltire Rare Malt to launch at Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival

Falkland, Fife / Archiestown, Speyside – Thursday 2 April 2024

Independent bottler Saltire Rare Malt Ltd will present its first 3 releases celebrating the 25^th edition of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival. The company was originally founded by Keith Rennie and Nigel Heywood, two Scottish friends from Falkland in Fife.

Keith Rennie comments: “We wanted to honour the pedigree of Scotland’s liquid pride and started to quietly buy casks of maturing whisky over the past decade. Now, 530 years after the official birth of Scotch in 1494, coincidentally at Falkland Palace, we thought it was the right time to release the first bottlings of Saltire Rare Malt. In the Whisky Couple, we have found the perfect team to curate our stock.”

The Whisky Couple, Hans & Becky Offringa, are honoured to have been appointed curators of the entire stock, consisting of over 250 casks, and growing. Each bottle will carry a small statement about their involvement. “We’ve never before connected our name so clearly to a specific whisky company, but really felt this is the time and the opportunity to do so. The stock is of excellent quality and from a wide variety of distilleries’ adds Hans.

David McCallum has been appointed UK & Europe Brand Ambassador, and he will focus on introducing the brand to consumers and the trade. David comments “I am excited to join the project to bring a new independent bottler to the market, with Saltire Rare Malt single cask bottlings released only when ready, at a minimum of 48.8% abv or higher and at 14 years old or older.”

Saltire Rare Malt will be initially available in the UK and The Netherlands with other countries planned to follow soon after, such as Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, Japan, New Zealand and the USA amongst others.

The Saltire Rare Malt Aultmore 14 years old and Tamnavulin 15 years old bottlings will be presented during four sessions at the Dowans Hotel in Aberlour on the Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon from 3 to 5 pm, as part of “A History of Scotch”. Limited places are still available and can be booked HERE 

The Saltire Rare Malt Glen Moray 17 years old bottling will be presented at the Glen Moray Distillery on Saturday evening at the Star Wars Event Return of the Jedi, limited tickets available HERE 

During the Spirit of Speyside Festival, bottlings of all three Saltire Rare Malt single cask whiskies will be available to purchase at Hotel 1881 in Archiestown and The Dowans Hotel in Aberlour.

To find out more about Saltire Rare Malt, visit https://www.saltireraremalt.com/

About the Saltire Rare Malt Collection 2024 Releases:

Release No.1 – Saltire Rare Malt Glen Moray 17 years old

Region: Speyside

Distilled: 4^th May 2007

Bottled: 4^th May 2024

Cask: #800471

ABV: 48.8% abv

Notes: 2^nd Fill American Oak

Bottles in Batch: 310

RSP: £105

On the Nose and Palate:

A bit of a surprise on the nose and palate but very tasty with a gentle goodbye.

This whisky has a pale gold colour in the glass. The nose starts with aromas of stewed apples, tinned pears and pineapple chunks. A sturdy background of malty notes supports this fruit salad, which is laced with aniseed and crystalized ginger.

On the palate, what follows is a succulent burst with more fruit (ripe cherries) and shaved hazelnut.

The finish is slightly astringent and pleasantly reminiscent of bitter lemon soda. Adding water is not recommended since it slightly flattens the delicate experience of this fine malt.

Release No.2 – Saltire Rare Malt Aultmore 14 years old

Region: Speyside

Distilled: 25^th March 2010

Bottled: 26^th March 2024

Cask: #21250

ABV: 48.8% abv

Notes: 2^nd Fill Oloroso Ex-Agitator

Bottles in Batch: 380

RSP: £79

On the Nose and Palate:

A nice aperitif, elegant and accessible. This would be a lovely accompaniment to a summer fruit salad.

This whisky is pale gold in the glass. On the nose is an immediate hint of buttered banana bread surrounded by floral aromas of broom, honeysuckle and pansy, carried on a malty platform.

That malty character carries on in the palate with added notes of walnut and unsweetened citrus lemonade. A quiet finale, medium long and very pleasant. This dram really benefits from a dash of water to release a fresh floral note appearing next to more banana aromas.

Release No.3 – Saltire Rare Malt Tamnavulin 15 years old

Region: Speyside

Distilled: 2^nd April 2009

Bottled: 3^rd April 2024

Cask: #1975

ABV: 48.8% abv

Notes: 1^st Fill Ex-Rhum Agricole

Bottles in Batch: 296

RSP: £95

On the Nose and Palate:

A very agreeable aperitif that may serve as a companion with asparagus with a butter cream sauce and a dusting of celery salt.

This pale gold whisky is slightly mineral in the nose at first, then followed by toasted banana bread. Then the aromas remind one of walking on a green wet lawn while tasting fresh sour cherries. Later a clear vegetal note of cooked asparagus sprinkled with lemon juice arrives, over a background of wet sawdust.

On the palate it is really fruity and vegetal, with the emphasis on the latter. After a while longer, angelica appears during a pleasant, slightly bitter finish that does not linger. Add a few drops of water and notice an increased creaminess in the mouthfeel.

About The Whisky Couple, Hans & Becky Offringa:

Hans Offringa is an international author and whisky expert who has worked in the industry for over 30 years. An inductee of the Whisky Hall of Fame, a Kentucky Colonel and a Keeper of the Quaich, Hans is a judge at the Scottish Whiskies Awards and the World Whisky Awards and serves as Director on the Advisory Board of The Council of Whiskey Masters.

Becky Lovett Offringa is a Keeper of the Quaich and co-author of numerous whisky books. Becky is a well-respected judge at the Scottish Whisky Awards and the World Whiskies Awards. She also is a Member on the Advisory Board of the Council of Whiskey Masters.

Becky & Hans, internationally known as ‘The Whisky Couple’, are trusted partners of the Saltire family and with their guidance and advice we are proud to be launching our inaugural release in May 2024.

Glen Scotia unveils ‘Campbeltown Malts Festival 2024’ limited-edition release

Glen Scotia has unveiled its 2024 Festival Edition release – a limited-edition bottling to celebrate the Campbeltown Malts Festival (21^st and 22^nd of May 2024), the annual event which celebrates the region’s incredible whisky past and present.

Glen Scotia’s yearly festival bottlings are known for being intriguing, bold expressions, and the 2024 global release is no exception.  The nine-year-old unpeated single malt was matured in first-fill bourbon barrels before being finished in the finest Fino sherry casks for six months.

The result is a charmingly unconventional dram which brings vibrant flavours of citrus and white orchard fruit along with hints of oak spice. Natural in colour, its mouthfeel is satisfyingly dry before it finishes with a subtle but distinctive maritime note.

Following on from the success of Glen Scotia’s first-ever on-pack virtual experience with last year’s Festival Edition, the 2024 edition will again offer fans the chance to go behind the scenes of the distillery.

By scanning the on-pack QR code, viewers will be transported to the ‘Sound of Glen Scotia’.

Created by whisky expert and musician, Neil Ridley, music producer, Dean Horner, and Scottish singer-songwriter, Jenny Sturgeon, Sound of Glen Scotia will allow audiences to create their very own music track by putting together soundbites captured at the distillery with the musical track ‘Copper Heart’, which was created by the trio for last year’s Malts Festival.

From banging casks as drumbeats and mash tuns churning to soundbites of the distillery team’s discussions during production, the soundbites allow audiences to enjoy a completely immersive tasting experience as they sip this year’s Festival Release.

Available to purchase online and in specialist retailers globally, Glen Scotia’s Campbeltown Malts Festival 2024 release is non-chill filtered, bottled at cask strength (56.2% ABV) and retails for £65.

Iain McAlister, Glen Scotia master distiller and distillery manager, said: 

“This 2024 Festival Release bottles the unique and exciting atmosphere of the Malts Festival – a delicious dram which is quintessentially Glen Scotia, with our distinct salty maritime note and salinity, as well as being bold and punchy, appealing to those looking for something a little more unconventional. 

“With tickets for our events selling out in record time this year, it is an increasing priority for us to share the spirit and character of our remote whisky home with our fans around the world who cannot make the festival. The on-pack virtual experience does just that, and our discerning aficionados can transport themselves inside the walls of the distillery in what is a wonderful experience for any whisky fan.” 

 Every year, Glen Scotia welcomes whisky enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy the charm of the ‘Wee Toon’ and sample the finest drams from Scotland’s smallest whisky-making region at the Campbeltown Malts Festival.

This year, the team will partner with experts from the industry, including Dave Broom, Becky Paskin and Millie Milliken, for a host of ticketed and free events that celebrate the rich heritage of the town and Glen Scotia.

Glen Scotia’s 2024 Campbeltown Malts Festival release is available to purchase via specialist suppliers and the Glen Scotia website, visit HERE

For further information on this year’s Campbeltown Malts Festival, visit: www.glenscotia.com/

Tasting notes:

Nose: Fresh floral

Palette: Lemon citrus, white orchard fruits and oak spice.

Finish: Long, satisfyingly dry with a subtle maritime quality and salinity

About Glen Scotia 

Distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832 and is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown.  Producing peated and non-peated whiskies, the distillery still maintains much of its original design, including the stillroom and the dunnage warehouse dating from the 1830s. To this day, the distillery team follow in the footsteps of their founders, using traditional methods, carefully creating the subtly maritime Campbeltown style the brand has become world-famous for.

Recognition of Glen Scotia’s style and craftsmanship continues to be acknowledged globally.

• In 2021, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old single malt was awarded ‘Best In Show Whisky’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Over 3,800 entries across thirty-one categories were judged with Glen Scotia being awarded the overall winner across all countries and styles. Only seven months later, Glen Scotia was also named Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2021.
• In 2022, Glen Scotia’s Victoriana won ‘Best In Class’ in the Distillers’ Single Malt Scotch – No Age Statement category at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• In 2023, Glen Scotia won ‘Best Single Cask Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards for a single cask bottling distilled in 2009 and aged for 13 years exclusively in a first-fill bourbon barrel.
• Later that same year, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old won a coveted Platinum award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023, which is awarded to the very few entries that receive a Double Gold medal for three consecutive years at the prestigious global event.

Cask-Strength Batch 2 reveals another side to

Lochlea’s award-winning spirit

Award-winning Ayrshire distillery, Lochlea, will be revealing its second cask strength whisky on 10^th June, just in time for Father’s Day – the perfect dram for those looking for a bolder version of the farm-to-cask distillery’s much celebrated single malt whisky.

Cask Strength Batch 2 follows last year’s launch of the distillery’s first ever cask strength bottling, released to show whisky lovers how the Lochlea house spirit tastes at a higher ABV.

Batch 2 differs from last year’s release – not only is it older, but this year’s bottling uses a cask make-up that the distillery has never shown before: Pedro Xímenez (PX) (60%) and Oloroso (28%) sherry butts, as well as STR barriques (12%). The various cask profiles give the whisky a weightier, peppery European Oak finish.

Each cask brings a different dimension to the final vatting: the Oloroso brings a creamy, dry and fruity character, the STR casks offer a spice and depth and the PX gives an interesting and unique sweet mustiness to the spirit.

Bottled at 60% ABV, this limited edition whisky is one of the oldest Lochlea whiskies to be released, with the majority of the liquid being five years old alongside a small amount of four year old spirit. The five year old spirit in the bottling also adds a fuller complexity to the final whisky.

John Campbell, Lochlea’s Production Director said: “Last year’s Cask Strength exceeded expectations for a 4-year-old, setting a high standard. With Batch 2 this year, we’ve once again surpassed expectations. This whisky packs a punch, showcasing a complexity greater than the sum of its parts.”

“Cask Strength Batch 1 had lovely layers of fresh, tropical fruit. Batch 2 has less of the signature Lochlea green apple dominance, but will have more weight to it, with a floral, lively palate and peppery European Oak finish. Batch 2 will feel bigger and bolder than Batch 1, making it an interesting dram to explore.”

Lochlea Cask Strength Batch 2 will be available from 10th June, RRP: £66.50 – the perfect special gift for Father’s Day this year.

Lochlea Cask Strength Batch 2

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Apples, peach syrup, marmalade

Palate: Wild lavender, rose petals

Finish: Black pepper, dried fruit, hints of apple and pear 

For a full list of Lochlea stockists, visit: Lochlea Distillery stockists

About Lochlea Distillery:

Lochlea was originally a 222-acre livestock farm before being purchased by Neil and Jen McGeoch in 2006. After much consideration of the future of the farm and a successful trial to grow its own barley in 2015, the couple transformed the land and existing farm buildings into a fully operational distillery in 2017 and started distilling the following year. The farming side has remained a unique part of Lochlea, with the move into barley production – paving the way for Lochlea to be one of the very few fully grain-to-cask distilleries in Scotland. It also has a rich Scottish heritage with strong links to Robbie Burns, with the bard having worked and lived on the farm a several years.

Lochlea Distillery has recently won the following awards:

– Icons of Whisky Scotland 2024: Single Estate and Brand Innovator

– Icons of Whisky 2023: Single Estate Distillery of the Year

– San Francisco Spirits Competition 2023: Our Barley – GOLD

– Las Vegas Global Spirits Competition 2023: Our Barley – GOLD

– Scottish Field Summer Whisky Challenge 2023: Distilleries under 10 Years Old – GOLD

– Scottish Field Summer Challenge Awards 2024: Distilleries under 10 Years Old AND £50- £100 whiskies: GOLD for Fallow Edition (Second Crop)

BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY OPENS DOORS TO FIRST BRAND HOME OUTSIDE OF THE USA – BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY LONDON 

World’s Most Award-Winning Distillery brings authentic American whiskey tasting and retail experience to the heart of Covent Garden in London.

London (April 29, 2024) – Buffalo Trace Distillery – producer of some of the most sought-after whiskeys in the world including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Sazerac Rye, W.L. Weller, and Pappy Van Winkle – will open doors and begin welcoming visitors at Buffalo Trace Distillery London on May 6^th, 2024. Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden at 32-33 Long Acre, the new Buffalo Trace Distillery London invites worldwide spirits enthusiasts to experience a first-of-its-kind American whiskey experience at the Distillery’s first official home outside of Kentucky, USA.

Of the opening, Jake Wenz, CEO and President at Buffalo Trace Distillery, said: “Opening Buffalo Trace Distillery London is a momentous occasion for our Distillery and we are thrilled to bring our experience to the United Kingdom. At Buffalo Trace Distillery London, we’ll offer a space for spirits novices and lovers to learn more about a whiskey type they are perhaps less familiar with – bourbon. Our aim is to inspire visitors to broaden their palates, and perhaps their cocktails, and we’re hopeful after learning about bourbon and tasting it, they will add it to their drink list.”

Buffalo Trace Distillery London features an immersive, sensorial experience that brings a taste of Kentucky to the nation’s capital. Guests will embark on a narrative journey highlighting the history of America’s oldest continuously operating distillery, culminating in an exclusive tasting experience at one of two inspiring bars. Tickets can be pre-booked now via BuffaloTraceDistillery.co.uk for either of the two tasting experiences:

1. Taste of the Trace – a guided tasting of three outstanding expressions from Buffalo Trace Distillery’s core product lineup: Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Sazerac Rye, Bourbon Cream and the option of a Buffalo and Ginger Ale cocktail sample.
2. Tradition & Change: Crafting the Most Awarded American Whiskey – a more intimate experience featuring a selection of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s premium expression lineup, including White Dog Mash #1, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare 10-Year-Old, E.H. Taylor Small Batch, and a small pour of a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned. Tastings will range in price depending on selection, up to £34.99.

Andrew Duncan, Global Brand Director at Buffalo Trace Distillery, added: “In the heart of Bourbon Country, USA, Buffalo Trace Distillery has been dedicated to the craft of making the finest American Whiskey for over 200 years. Our deep commitment to the timeless craft of aging and distilling, alongside a keen focus on experimentation and innovation, has enabled Buffalo Trace Distillery to become the World’s Most Award-winning Distillery, earning the loyalty of fans around the globe. Our London location brings the same genuine and authentic experience fans love about our flagship home in Kentucky to a new generation of spirits enthusiasts, allowing them to discover all that Buffalo Trace Distillery’s award-winning brands have to offer.”

The location of Buffalo Trace Distillery London (32-33 Long Acre) has been completely renovated to create a guest-first experience aimed at attracting Londoners and visitors alike. The 2,000-square-foot space pays homage to Buffalo Trace’s legendary bourbon craftsmanship with special finishes and custom materials that evoke the essence of the Distillery in Kentucky. In the retail store, fans will be able to purchase whiskey bottles and unique merchandise – in fact, some of the merchandise can only be found at Buffalo Trace Distillery London! Rarer whiskey offerings from Buffalo Trace will also be offered during special surprise times throughout the initial opening months.

Reservations are recommended to secure a tasting appointment at Buffalo Trace Distillery London -prebooking can be arranged now via BuffaloTraceDistillery.co.uk. Guests will also have the option of ‘walking in’ and inquiring about availability in-person and appointments will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Hours of operation are as follows:

• Monday – Saturday: 11:00am-9pm EST
• Sunday: Noon-6pm EST

For more information about Buffalo Trace Distillery London visit BuffaloTraceDistillery.co.uk and to stay current on happenings and updates follow along on Instagram @buffalotracedistillery_uk.

ABOUT BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and it is a National Historic Landmark, as well as listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its history 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. The Distillery has won more than 40 distillery titles since 2000 and garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. Its George T. Stagg was named Best Bourbon Whiskey at the 2023 International Whiskey Competition (USA) and its W.L. Weller 12 YO received double gold at the 2023 International Spirits Challenge. Buffalo Trace Distillery has a deep commitment to supporting charitable initiatives. Nonprofit organizations interested in learning more about the Distillery’s efforts are encouraged to register their charity here. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery, visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

OVERHOLT™, THE LONGEST-STANDING AMERICAN WHISKEY BRAND, LAUNCHES A. OVERHOLT STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY, REVITALIZING OVERHOLT’S ORIGINAL PENNSYLVANIA MONONGAHELA MASH WITH A CONTEMPORARY APPROACH

A. Overholt pays homage to its heritage with a fully balanced, robust and complex American rye available nationwide today

Clermont, Kentucky (April 10, 2024) – Today, Overholt™, the longest-standing American whiskey brand maintained continuously since 1810, announced its newest release, A. Overholt shepherding the newest evolution of Pennsylvania Rye imbued with heritage and legacy. Reintroducing consumers to one of the first styles of American whiskey, Overholt™ is reclaiming its stature as one of the most iconic rye whiskey brands by redefining the breadth and future of rye. A. Overholt uses the same mashbill Overholt™ founder, Abraham Overholt used in 1810 – 80% rye grain and 20% soft malted barley – creating a fully warm yet deep spice, similar to rye whiskey from the 1800’s. 

Since inception, Overholt™ has forged forward through every era, including being one of the only spirits brands to survive prohibition, with the same clarity and tenacity Abraham Overholt had when crafting in 1810. Today, Freddie Noe, 8^th Generation Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery at The James B. Beam Distilling Co. champions the legacy, propelling the brand forward through the rebirth of this whiskey’s iconic legacy liquid, A. Overholt – Pennsylvania born, Kentucky made.

“With over 200 years of exceptional craftmanship, Overholt™ is engrained in American history with its industrial roots and as a spirit that has set the industry standard since inception,” said Freddie Noe. “The newest launch of A. Overholt is the result of highly crafted whiskey, informed and inspired by generational expertise, and I’m honored to steward this brand forward while paying homage to its past and our shared commitment to American whiskey innovation.”

The Overholt™ brand is known as A Keystone of American Rye Whiskey because of the shared qualities between Abe and The Keystone State itself: hard work, steely grit, big ideas, firm conviction, and its long-standing industrious spirit. It’s this conviction that drove Abraham Overholt forward – through wars, prohibition, cultural strife, and plenty of double shifts. Its indomitable spirit has remained resilient despite various changes in ownership and production throughout the years, including a change in hands to Abraham’s own grandson, American industrialist Henry Clay Frick. Today, the Pennsylvania-born whiskey of the Industrial Revolution is produced in Clermont, Kentucky at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., where the rich tradition of American production lives on.

A. Overholt joins the ranks of this beloved, and trade favorite portfolio currently consisting of Old Overholt 4YO, Old Overholt 4YO Bottled in Bond, and Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength. Enjoy A. Overholt neat or on the rocks or in a cocktail such as the Perfect Manhattan or Scofflaw to experience the boldness and versatility of the newest expression. A. Overholt will be available nationwide across the U.S., in-store and find a bottle near you on OverholtRye.com bottle locator, beginning April 2024. For real-time information about A. Overholt follow along on Instagram @BeamDistilling and www.beamdistilling.com.

A. OVERHOLT STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY | 47.5% ABV | SRP: $39.99

COLOR – Clover Honey

AROMA – Caramel, subtle layers of sandalwood and caraway

TASTE – Brown butter, honeysuckle, clove, seasoned oak

FINISH – Pleasant, Lingering notes of warm rich baking spice 

About Overholt™

Overholt™ is one of the longest-standing US whiskey brands in American history. Originally created in West Overton, Pennsylvania and established in 1810 by its namesake Abraham Overholt, the brand pays homage with its new A. Overholt Monongahela Mash – our first foray back to our roots with a Pennsylvania Style-inspired classic rye. As A Keystone of American Whiskey, its tenacious spirit has remained resilient throughout history’s changing landscape and consumer tastes with an unbroken chain of ownership and sale since its inception. Today, the Pennsylvania-born whiskey that’s existed for more than two centuries is produced in Clermont, Kentucky at the James B. Beam Distilling Co., where its rich tradition of American production lives on.  

About Beam Suntory

As a world leader in premium spirits, Beam Suntory inspires the brilliance of life by delivering great consumer experiences through its world-class portfolio of brands.  Known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam®, Maker’s Mark®, Basil Hayden® and Knob Creek® bourbons; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Teacher’s, Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Beam Suntory also produces leading brands such as Courvoisier® cognac, Tres Generaciones®, El Tesoro® and Hornitos® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, Canadian Club® whisky, and is a world leader in ready-to-drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in more than 30 countries, one of Beam Suntory’s core values is Growing for Good and through its Proof Positive sustainability strategy, the company has committed to ambitious goals and investments to promote environmental sustainability in its operations, ensure the company has a positive impact on the communities where employees live and work, and programs to educate and inform consumers to make the right personal choices about drinking. Headquartered in New York City, Beam Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit www.beamsuntory.com