Shilton, the man with the drams at St Andrews

The time; 7 p.m (ish). The venue; St Andrews. The date; Thursday 27 September 2018. Who and what?; Paul John Whisky with Shilton Almeida

I was away to St Andrews, roughly 35 minutes from home in Perth, to a tasting night. I have known Paul John Distilleries for quite some time, Michael is the master, Shilton the presenter!!! Not only was this a great night, previously, Michael had sent me whiskies for us to use in our whisky tours and tastings. Later next month (October) we head up to Dornoch for their whisky fest, taking three excellent PJ drams with us.

So the evening was a great taster of things to come – see what I did there?  The hosts – St Andrews Whisky Society affectionately known as the Quaich Society, (or Quaich Soc) – was founded in 1994 and has been introducing drams since. I was invited by Aedan A. Burt, Quaich Soc. President . Loosely attached to the University of St Andrews. ALL proceeds from the event went to aid the work of the charity Water Aid.    WaterAid has teams in 34 countries across the world, working with partners to transform millions of lives every year by improving access to clean water, toilets and hygiene.

‘St Andrews Quaich Society was founded originally by students and attached to the Students Association.  The Society quickly sought the support of Luvians, then only in Cupar, with which we have been affiliated since 1996.  The Society holds regular whisky tastings, hosted by leading Brand Ambassadors, that are open to all.  The Society also soon disaffiliated from the Union due to venue and alcohol policy problems, to truly become a Town and Gown Society – anyone may attend, become a member, or join the Committee at our annual elections – attendance is currently £7 for members and £12 for non-members, with tickets on the door.  Membership is only £15, which includes a free Glencairn glass and a 7.5% discount on whisky purchases at Luvians (St Andrews, Cupar, and soon online).  Membership can be bought at every event.  Through Luvians, we are also affiliated with the charity WaterAid, providing clean water and sanitation in areas without.

I had been invited along by Aedan A. Burt, Quaich Soc. President, to see how they arrange the evenings, I knew it was Shilton and of course I said aye. I arrived late afternoon, parked up and dondered around St Andrews – as you do. Bumped into Jackie from Weymss/Kingsbarns and had a wee chat, she was taking a gin evening also in town. Had an early dinner in the Tailend, a monster fisg appeared on a plate hardly large enough for it, I did manage to make it disappear.  After some window shopping and whisky shop curiosities, I arrived early at the hotel, nice by the way. Sat in the bar, enjoyed two pots of tea and read a book (driving tonight). Whilst gazing about bored, I happened to spot some likely suspects arriving for the set up, I was correct, so went in and said hello, sat down and watched the chaos start. A few Uni guys were pouring 55 drams x 5 bottles out, lined up on a large table, not how we would have done it but ok. Shilton arrived, let him make contact with them before a quick wave hello. Smiling he came over, sat down and we chatted for some time about this, that, people we both knew, Charlie Mac especially and Michael, his boss.

Attendees piled in, paying on the door – it was mostly university people – and all found a seat. After more conversation with Shilton, I sat doon and took stock. Off he went into a great wee staory about himself, I didnee know he was named after goalie Peter Shilton!  Learn something new every day. He drifted into distillery talk, weather in Goa and all things Indian, by the way, Indian Angels get almost 12% share (Bangalore), on to the first dram; Brilliance @ 46%.  I won’t go into every dram but this one is 5 – 6 years old. The oldest cask they have is 8 year old, over two warehouse collections, one above ground and one below – unusual to say the least.

More drams followed with great patter from Shilton – he was good. Drams included; Classic @ 55.2%, Edited @ 46%, Bold (peated) 46% and Peated @ 55.5%.. It was around a two hour tasting evening, with drams, chat, questions etc, aye he had also prepared a presentation which was excellent on screen. Paul John Distillery uses two kinds of peat, both Scottish exports, highlands and Islay – think of it as Scottish peat taking a 6 year holiday in Goa then coming back to their birthplace, that’s what was on offer this evening. One or two drams I was hoping for never arrived, sad face here. The Christmas Edition limited run and the fabulous Olorosso finish, och next time. It was really interesting listening about the distillery, how it started and some other drams on offer – ie; Original Choice, especially as we can buy it in Goa at 50p or £1 per carton!!! The evening drew to a close, I had my photos, my good memories of my chats with Shilton and drove to my hotel 6 miles away – I hadnee had an alcoholic drink all day!  But did take some samples away.

So, I said to Aedan, can anyone join your group?  Aye – St Andrews Whisky Society. Find them on facebook.

All told this was an enjoyable event, made better by the people there and the drams tabled. I do have to thank both Michael and Shilton (PJ) for the whisky they supplied for our upcoming tours, a bunch of whisky hungry Swedes for a week, and a whisky fest in Dornoch with Swiss and Indian guests. Shilton and myself agreed to meet up again as soon as we can both make diary space, we would love him to be this relaxed and good, presenting PJ drams to one (or more) of our groups in future. Saving that for another day – see what I did there? Saving, goalie!  Oh well.

Host; St Andrews Whisky Society. Presentation; Shilton Almenia check this. Watching brief and blogger; Paul McLean of http://mcleanscotland.com/

Just Whisky Auction Live – Ending Soon! 

Currently live with our 59th auction which is ending soon. Don’t miss out – Get Bidding!

The Auction ends Sunday 21^th October from 8.00pm (BST)

The Distillery Reserve Collection 2018 (Caperdonich 21, Strathisla 26, Glenugie 37)

The Distillery Reserve Collection is a limited release of rare and exceptional whiskies from Chivas Brothers Single Malt Whisky Distilleries. Each release is bottled at cask Strength. Some of the latest releases are:

Caperdonich 21 Years Old, distilled 7^th October 1996 and bottled 6^th August 2018. Limited to only 324 bottles
Strathisla 26 Years Old, distilled 20^th January 1992 and bottled 1^st August 2018. Limited to only 708 bottles
Glenugie 37 Years Old, distilled 19^th June 1981 and bottled 6^th August 2018. Limited to only 300 bottles

Johnnie Walker White Walker – Game of Thrones

An Autumn 2018 Limited Edition release from Johnnie Walker. This expression was created by whisky specialist George Harper, alongside a small team of expert blenders at JW, this innovative whisky is best served directly from the freezer, echoing the chilling presence of the White Walkers. If you have been on a remote island for the last few years, Game of Thrones is an American fantasy drama television series which was based on fantasy novels by George R. R. Martin. The Series was released in The United States April 2011 and the World was hooked!

Glenrothes 13 Years Old 2004 – Halloween Edition 2018

A Limited Release of only 2202 bottles, Glenrothes Distillery have gone to the dark side! Distilled 2004 in 100% in first fill sherry seasoned casks for 13 years before being bottled October 2018 at cask strength. Glenrothes Distillery is located beside the town’s graveyard, day and night as life begins and ends the Glenrothes continues its daily routine of giving birth to newly made spirit.

Yamazaki 1999 – 2012 Tokyo International Bar Show

This single cask Yamazaki was distilled in 1999, matured in a Puncheon in the Ohmi Aging Cellar and then bottled in 2012 for the Tokyo 2012 Whisky Live Bar Show.

Ben Nevis 40 Years old 1963 – Old & Rare Platinum Selection

From Hunter Laing’s, and bottled for their Old & Rare Platinum Selection, from the Highland distillery Ben Nevis an incredibly well-aged 40-year-old Single malt which has spent a minimum of 6 months finishing in Sherry Wood. Distilled 1963 then bottled at natural cask strength in 2004. Traditionally un-chill filtered and one of only 339 bottles from a single cask.

Enough talk! Let’s view the auction!

www.just-whisky.co.uk

International Beverage appoints Cara Chambers to Marketing Director Role

Global drinks business International Beverage Holdings has today (Tuesday 9^th October) announced the appointment of Cara Chambers to the post of Marketing Director.

Based at the company’s Scotch whisky subsidiary Inver House Distillers in Airdrie, Mrs Chambers is tasked with leading marketing and innovation for International Beverage’s award-winning spirits portfolio, which includes the Old Pulteney, anCnoc, Speyburn and Balblair single malt whisky brands, Hankey Bannister blended Scotch, as well as Scotland’s leading super premium gin Caorunn.

She brings 25 years’ experience working for some of the UK’s leading blue chip companies to the position, as well as a strong track record in implementing successful brand marketing strategies for global drinks companies, including Heineken and Whyte & Mackay.

Commenting on her appointment, Mrs Chambers said: ‘I have heard so many positive things about the International Beverage business, its people and its brilliant brands, and I am thrilled to have been appointed to the post. The opportunity to work closely with the team in Scotland, whilst also being part of the company’s international business framework, is a very appealing prospect. It’s a chance for me to learn within a dynamic global team, and to deliver plans to take these successful brands to the next level. I am really looking forward to the challenge.’

Inver House Distillers Managing Director Martin Leonard added: ‘We are entering a very exciting period for our business, with the channels in place to grow our brands in markets around the world. The position of Marketing Director is critical to delivering our ambitious plans, and Cara brings outstanding qualities, skills and experience to the task. She is a great fit for our business and a most welcome addition to our growing team.’

Mrs Chambers began her career in the drinks industry, starting at United Distillers (Diageo), Scottish Courage – where she became Marketing Manager for its cider portfolio – and Scottish & Newcastle / Heineken UK, where she rose to become Head of Innovation.

After a period working in consultancy, Mrs Chambers returned to the drinks industry as Marketing Director for Whyte & Mackay, before moving to Sainsbury’s Bank as Head of Customer and Brand Development, leading a brand, communications and innovation strategy at a pivotal point in the company’s development. Latterly, she was European Marketing Director of Baxters Food Group.

She is a qualified business coach and a fellow of the Marketing Society.

http://www.interbevgroup.com/

International Beverage Holdings Ltd

International Beverage Holdings Ltd is one of the drinks industry’s most dynamic global businesses.  Established in 2006 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thaibev, the company operates as its international business arm, specialising in the development of premium local spirits for the global market. Its success is built on a strong understanding of local cultures and markets within a worldwide business network. Based in Hong Kong with regional offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, the USA and UK, the company is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium brands in over 85 markets. These brands are built on character, craftsmanship and quality, led by a range of award-winning Scotch whiskies and an array of vibrant beers and spirits. These include:

• Single malt Scotch whiskies Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc and Speyburn
• Blended Scotch Hankey Bannister
• Caorunn, Scotland’s leading super premium gin
• Mekhong, ‘The Spirit of Thailand’ since 1941
• Chang Beer, Thailand’s iconic beer brand

Inver House Distillers is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Beverage Holdings Ltd, producing its  Scotch whiskies and gin at five distilleries around Scotland: Pulteney, Speyburn, Knockdhu, Balblair and Balmenach. Inver House is also highly active in the warehousing and blending of Scotch whisky, with warehousing for 500,000 barrels and state of the art blending and laboratory facilities at its headquarters in Airdrie. The business has won many prestigious accolades over the years, including the Icons of Whisky Distiller of the Year Award for Scotland (2017).

www.interbevgroup.com

Focus brands

Old Pulteney, ‘The Maritime Malt’, is crafted in the windswept coastal town of Wick at Pulteney Distillery – established in 1826 and one of the most northerly on the Scottish mainland. ‘Pulteneytown’ once housed 7000 fishermen during Wick’s famous herring boom, and Old Pulteney is the embodiment of this place, its people and its remarkable history. Crafted using the most time-honoured techniques, Old Pulteney recently launched a new core range featuring flagship 12 Years Old, Huddart, 15 and 18 Years Old. www.oldpulteney.com

Speyburn Distillery was established in 1897 by John Hopkins at Rothes in the heart of Speyside. The beautiful natural environment of this location, combined with traditional methods of production and a quest for innovation, produce a whisky that symbolises all that is special about the great Speyside region. Speyburn currently has three core expressions – Bradan Orach, 10 and 15 Years Old. www.speyburn.com

Balblair Distillery is one of the oldest working distilleries in the Scottish Highlands, built in 1790 and sitting on the original site to this day. Balblair whiskies are released as vintage expressions, only when they have reached their exact point of ‘optimum maturation’, the peak of perfection. www.balblair.com

anCnoc is produced at Knockdhu Distillery, built in 1894 and one of the smallest and most enchanting in the Scottish Highlands. It is renowned by malt enthusiasts worldwide for bringing a contemporary twist to the traditions of fine malt whisky, producing a single malt that is accessible and versatile for all occasions. www.ancnoc.com

Hankey Bannister is crafted from a blend of fine single malts from the five Inver House distilleries, producing a smooth and distinctive blend that is true to the original recipe of its historic founders – the flamboyant Mr Beaumont Hankey and his astute business partner, Mr Hugh Bannister. The whiskies of these eighteenth century pioneers were awarded royal warrants under King George V and Edward VII and were enjoyed by the likes of Winston Churchill and the Prince Regent William IV. www.hankeybannister.com

BOURBONS FROM BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY WIN TWO DOUBLE GOLD MEDALS AT THE 2018 NEW YORK WORLD WINE AND SPIRITS COMPETITION 

            FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (October 11, 2018) – A bevy of spirits from Buffalo Trace Distillery won medals at the eighth annual New York World Wine & Spirits Competition (NYWSC), including Best Straight Bourbon and Double Gold Medal to W.L. Weller 12 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon.  Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon also received a Double Gold, along with winning Best Bourbon and Best Small Batch Bourbon.

The NYWSC, held in August, received more than 430 wines and 340 spirits to be judged at this year’s competition, breaking all records of previous years.

Spirits from Buffalo Trace Distillery which received Gold Medals:

• Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Stagg Jr. Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Silver Medals from Buffalo Trace Distillery produced spirits:

• Eagle Rare Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey
• W.L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• W.L. Weller Antique 107 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Buffalo Trace Distillery Bronze Medal Spirits Winners:

• Wheatley Vodka
• Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream Liqueur

“We are honored to accept the awards at this year’s New York World Wine and Spirits Competition, says Harlen Wheatley, master distiller at Buffalo Trace Distillery, “It was truly a team effort.”

Results from the 2018 New York World Wine and Spirits Competition can be found at https://www.nywscomp.com/results/.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1773 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 21 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its Col. E. H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain Bourbon was named World Whiskey of the Year by “Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible 2018.”  Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 500 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

VIEW NEW WHISKIES

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults, 87 Giles Street, Leith EH6 6BZ

Contact: sales@smws.com or call 0131 555 2929 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm). Visit the Society at here for membership information

This is your chance to join and to take advantage of their great offers!

Spot the SMWS bottles in this amusing You Tube video

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OCTOBER  AUCTION NOW LIVE!
(ends Sunday 28th October) 

…place your bids at www.whiskyhammer.co.uk

With an incredible selection of whiskies and other fine spirits there is certainly something for everyone – whether you are looking to collect, invest, enjoy!

Friday, October 26th, 5-7PM:

Scotch Tasting: Diageo

The distributor behind some of the world’s best loved scotches, Diageo returns for a final tasting at The Whisky Shop! Johnnie Walker, Lagavulin, Talisker, and Oban are just a few of the many single malt scotches in Diageo’s impressive portfolio. Pourlist yet to be finalized – RSVP for updates.

More Details & RSVP

Brand Home Manager of Forres distillery joins exclusive Scotch whisky society 

A distillery brand home manager who has been delighting visitors for five years about Benromach Speyside single malt Scotch whisky has become a Keeper of the Quaich at an exclusive ceremony at Blair Castle in Perthshire.

Susan Colville was invited to join the international and select society which recognises those who have shown outstanding commitment to the Scotch whisky industry.

Susan, who was born and raised in Speyside, joined the Forres-based distillery in 2013 to lead a dedicated team of guides who deliver a highly personal and up-close experience to thousands of visitors from all over the world each year.

Throughout 2018, as Benromach celebrates its 20^th anniversary since production restarted, Susan has been driving an exciting programme of activity. She began by leading the team that staged the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival opening gala dinner in May and is helping to host colleague and trade events throughout the year.

Susan was thrilled to be honoured by the Keepers of the Quaich She said: “This has been an incredible year at the distillery, and to receive this accolade during our 20^th anniversary is particularly special for me.

“As one of only a few distilleries in Scotland where every whisky is handcrafted without any automated equipment, we’ve worked hard to deliver tours and tastings to our visitors that are truly unique. Since 2013, we’ve seen a 40% increase in visitor numbers from across the globe.”

Susan, who lives in Elgin, Speyside with her husband and daughter, was determined to pursue a career in the Scotch whisky industry from an early age having been inspired by her father who worked for over 30 years as a distiller at Glenrothes Distillery.

Beginning her career as a tour guide at Glenfiddich and Glenfarclas Distilleries over the summer holidays, she then moved to Edinburgh to work for Royal Mile Whiskies. With a natural disposition for customer service and a love of Scotch whisky, Susan relished the opportunity to develop her knowledge and hone her sales skills.

Sales and marketing roles with Douglas Laing, AD Rattray, Wemyss and Glenglassaugh saw Susan travel the world, conducting countless masterclasses and tastings to an audience keen to learn and enjoy Scotch whisky.

Susan was acknowledged by her industry peers in 2012 when she was presented with the Young Ambassador of the Year accolade at the Icons of Whisky Awards. Following this recognition, Susan was named Visitor Centre Manager of the year at the World Whiskies Awards in 2015.

The venue for the Keepers of the Quaich ceremony – Blair Castle – is home to the Atholl Highlanders, Europe’s only private army. The banquet is held in the Grand Ballroom of the Castle, famous for its ceiling decorated with 175 deer antlers.

Keith Cruickshank, distillery manager at Benromach, commented: “Susan’s tireless commitment and significant contribution to our wonderful industry makes her an outstanding candidate to become a Keeper of the Quaich.

“She is a terrific ambassador for Scotch malt whisky and is truly deserving of this honour.”

Last month, Benromach Distillery, which attracts more than 13,000 visitors per year achieved its Five Star Visitor Attraction status from VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance scheme.

Notes 

Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery and purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A five star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail.

Burns Night at Vic Caledonian – early-bird pricing

Robert Burns Season is fast approaching, and as you know, we have sold out the last 2 years! As a Caley Clan member or Founder-Owner, we thought you would like advance notice of ticket sales; this year will of course be bigger and bolder and we know you don’t want to miss out!

Staying the same this year is the ticket price of $125 inc.tax, however if you pay for your tickets before St.Andrews Day (Scotland’s patron saint) November 30th then tickets will be only $115 each!! Perhaps your inner Scotsperson is smiling right now :).

Please see the attached poster for more details, and either visit the distillery, or
call (778) 401-0410 to reserve your seats. You’ll want to tell us how many are in your group so we can sit you together, and if you desire a wine substitution for the whisky. Sorry, but we cannot do food menu substitutions.

Seats are limited, so we hope you’re lucky enough to get your tickets before they sell out!

Slàinte mhath!

Graeme
__________________________
Graeme Macaloney PhD., PEng., FIChemE.
Founder, President & Whisky Maker
Victoria Caledonian Distiller & Twa Dogs Brewery

www.VCaledonian.com
Facebook: @VictoriaCaledonian; @TwaDogs; Twitter: @VCaledonian; @TwaDogsBeer