Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Campaign Wins Prestigious Tourism Award

“Book, Now, Bourbon Later” Marketing Campaign Takes Home the Gold Traverse Award for Tourism Excellence

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) announced today that the legendary Kentucky Bourbon Trail® (KBT™) has received a Traverse Award for Excellence in Kentucky Tourism from the Kentucky Travel Industry Association. The award was presented during the 2023 Kentucky Travel Industry Annual Conference held November 8-10 at the Sloan Convention Center in Bowling Green.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® received a Gold Traverse for its “Book Now, Bourbon Later” digital marketing campaign.

“We are thrilled to receive this Traverse Award,” said Mandy Ryan, Director of Kentucky Bourbon Trail Experiences. “ The Kentucky Bourbon Trail and our member distilleries strive to improve the visitor experience in our state everyday– it’s wonderful to be recognized for our efforts.”

The “Book Now, Bourbon Later” campaign was created in 2022 in response to the surge in tourism coming out of the pandemic when most distilleries were facing new challenges in the hospitality space. Challenges include guests showing up without tour reservations, decreased guest numbers per tour, rerouting of tour paths to avoid sensitive production areas, staffing shortages and burnout, and the generally cranky and underprepared “revenge tourists.” The digital campaign was launched with three main goals:

• Shift public perceptions away from the belief that distillery tours are walk-in experiences.
• Position KBT™ distilleries as world-class tourism destinations requiring reservations.
• Educate visitors on why booking reservations is the best way to ensure optimal distillery experiences.

“Based on data from our booking software partners at AnyRoad, in Q2 of 2022, visitors were booking tours about 12 days in advance.” reported KDA President Eric Gregory, “By Q4, they were booking tours 35-37 days in advance. That’s a big change!”

“The overall campaign drove tourists to take action and become part of the Kentucky Bourbon community. It served as a brand awareness campaign, putting the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in front of 378K people more than 1.3 million times, continuing to build the Bourbon economy in communities across the Commonwealth,” continued Gregory.

With more than 75% of KBT® visitors coming from outside Kentucky, planning their trips in advance is crucial now more than ever.

Kentucky travel and tourism businesses and marketing organizations vied for Traverse Awards in 11 categories. A panel of out-of-state tourism industry experts judge the Traverse Awards. Award criteria include concept, creativity, results and impact. A total of 199 entries were submitted from throughout Kentucky for the 2023 competition.

According to KTIA president & CEO Hank Phillips, ”With nearly 200 entries and based on the judges’ comments about the across the board high quality of the entries, the 2023 Traverse competition was as close as it was intense,” added Hank Phillips, KTIA President & CEO.. “The larger picture of the awards is how they reflect the results-oriented talent and creativity that exists throughout Kentucky’s tourism industry. That talent and creativity last year attracted over 75 million Kentucky visitors bringing with them the many benefits tourism provides to the people of the Commonwealth.”

The Kentucky Travel Industry Association represents and serves all segments of Kentucky’s tourism industry, which despite the pandemic’s severe impact, contributed $12.9 billion to Kentucky’s economy in 2022. The nearly 1000-member association engages in advocacy and provides its members with education, information and business development opportunities. The association also works to inform the public of the enormous economic, employment and tax revenue contributions tourism makes to the people of Kentucky.

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the worldwide voice of Bourbon

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.

Our 150th auction is now approaching the end and with that in mind we thought we’d take the time to point out some choice lots in this month which you might have missed.

A genuine work of art, this is the Macallan Sir Peter Blake 8 Decades.  Housed in an oak box that is deceptively simple from the outside the interior is an explosion of colour, ideas and a miniature of Macallan from the 1930s through to the Noughties. The labels on the bottles have been designed by Sir Peter and the oldest comes from 1937 and the youngest hails from 2002.

Assorted Suntory Instrument Decanters

This is a fabulously whimsical collection of decanters from Japanese whisky giant, Suntory.  The company was founded by Shinjiro Torii in 1899, first as an importer of Western wines and liquor, and going on to develop their own distilleries.  These terrific decanters showcase the playful attitude often adopted by Japanese whisky makers and would make a fine addition to any collection.

A personal favourite, this is undoubtedly a bucket list bottle for many of us here at SWA, and I’m sure for many other GlenDronach afficionados out there, the GlenDronach 1971 50 Year Old.  One of the oldest GlenDronachs’ ever released this expression might come in understated packaging, but it can’t be overstated how special the whisky contained within truly is.  One of only 198 bottles released this is your chance to purchase a Highland sherrybomb of inimitable quality.

Finally a jaunt to Campbeltown for the Springbank 1966 24 Year Old Local Barley Cask #443 75cl.  One of the rarest of the highly sought after range of bottlings that is the local barley series, this delicious looking dram was distilled way back in 1966 before being aged for 24 years in a single sherry cask.  The family owned Springbank is unique in that it remains the only distillery in Scotland where 100% of the production process is carried out on site, and while it produces three distinct styles (in Springbank, Longrow, and Hazelburn), its eponymous Springbank expression still accounts for the lion’s share of production. A medium peated, two and a half times distilled spirit, Springbank is complex, robust and never boring!As always, we charge no sellers commission and only 10% buyers premium.

On top that there is no buyers commission whatsoever on this month’s Buy-it-Now lot, the Glenfarclas 1991 Family Cask #210 for the 10th Anniversary of SWA.  They are selling fast so if you plan on snapping one up you’d better act quickly!

Sheringham Distillery

WHISKY PRESALE!

RESERVE WHISKY

As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible moments and shared experiences that have defined this year. From the clinking of glasses to the laughter and dedication that echoes through our distillery, we’re honored to be part of your celebrations and memorable occasions.

WHISKY PRESALE

Story: Jason’s whisky-making dream took its inaugural steps in our original distillery, perched overlooking the picturesque Juan de Fuca Strait in Shirley, B.C. This vision expanded to our Sooke distillery, where Jason continued to craft exceptional whisky, using exclusively local B.C. grains. Our commitment to sustainability extends to our spent grain, which was repurposed as feed for local farm animals. Jason’s meticulous approach to aging whisky ensures that each bottle becomes a coveted collector’s item.

The excellence of Jason’s craft was acknowledged, with the debut batch of whisky claiming the “Best In Class” title at the 2019 at the Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition (CASC) and a Gold award in the “Merrit in Terroir” category in 2021.

Anticipation is growing as we prepare to unveil our latest whisky offering. It brings us great joy and honor to share this batch of rye whisky with you.

Process: This whisky was crafted in Sooke, British Columbia, using exclusively B.C. grain and traditional distillation techniques. The mash bill, consisting of rye, wheat, and malted barley, has been distilled in small batches and aged for a minimum of three years in premium American new white oak barrels. The robust and full-bodied flavour of this whisky comes from a combination of the mash bill, traditional distillation methods, the use of new American oak to age the spirit and the pure love of making whisky.

Tasting Notes: Experience a deep and complex rye spice, complemented by notes of pepper, vanilla, cooked fruit, brown sugar, and a subtle hint of leather.

Whisky is available for pre-sale only at this time. Pre-sale is limited to British Columbia residents, with shipping exclusively within the province. Orders expected to ship February/March 2024.

Join the presale for a special limited time offer of $79.99 CAD for the month of December.

ROYAL SALUTE

LUXURY SCOTCH WHISKY

First created as a gift for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the day of her Coronation in 1953, Royal Salute 21 Year Old is a fantastic blend of grain and malt whiskies that adds a touch of luxury to a whisky collection.

The decadent whisky range features Royal Salute’s classic 21 Year Old Signature Blend, the Jodhpur Edition which has been finished in virgin oak casks, and limited-edition releases made in collaboration with acclaimed fashion designer Richard Quinn. It’s a cracking whisky to gift an avid Scotch fan or show off at Christmas celebrations and special occasions.

SHOP NOW

Our final collection schedule for 2023  has now been finalised.

Please note that most of our Scotland dates are a little earlier than usual.

Please click HERE for the list of dates, locations and to register your interest in this service.

The deadline for collection requests is 12noon on Monday 11th December 2023.

Home collections are available for those customers sending 10+ bottles or bottles to the value of £1000. Unfortunately this service is not available in London or to those customer who live within 10 miles of a collection point.

Collections are limited and offered on a first come first served basis.

It is essential that a submission sheet is completed, you can do so under the selling section on your ‘My SWA’ page.

It would be appreciated if bottles could be packed for uplift with your name clearly marked on the front of the box.

A winner in our auction? We are now offering a delivery service to customers who are dropping bottles off for a future auction. This service is charged at £12 (inc VAT), optional loss and breakage cover is available.

Submission Form & Label

THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS GIFTING 

Are you searching for the ultimate Christmas gift this year? Well, your search ends here! Our very own Santa’s little helper, Mads Schmoll, has the ideal presents in store. Discover a selection of hand-picked introductory sets and educational resources that will not only kindle their passion but also serve as a guide through the enchanting world of whisky.

GIFT GUIDE

SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

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

The Good Dram Show – Episode 535 ‘An Cnoc & Old Pulteney’

Welcome to this week’s episode of the show in which I’ll be taking a look at some new releases from Pulteney and Knockdhu. The Good Dram Show with Chris Goodrum Episode 535 – ‘Twas The Episode Before The Christmas Episode.! Filmed in The Study Nottingham

Featuring

An Cnoc 18 year old 46%

An Cnoc 24 year old 46%

An Cnoc Peatheart Batch 3 46%

An Cnoc Sherry Cask Finish Peated Edition 43%

Old Pulteney Costal Series #1 ‘Pineau des Charentes’ 46%

Old Pulteney Costal Series #2 ‘Port’ 46%

TOAST YEAR OF THE DRAGON WITH BERRY BROS. & RUDD’S WINTER RELEASE

Britain’s oldest curator of spirits and wine, Berry Bros. & Rudd, is set to conclude its 325th anniversary year with a final seasonal release of whiskies including a special Lunar New Year bottling.

The 2023 Winter Release comprises bottlings from handpicked casks that can be paired perfectly with the colder months, including robust and smoky malts from Islay distilleries Caol Ila and Williamson, boasting rich flavours of chocolate orange.

Richly sherried spirits including a Dailuaine single malt have been bottled to especially celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Dragon. For something unique, a single-grain whisky from Strathclyde Distillery is bursting with fresh fruit and vanilla cream.

Joe Whittaker, Global Brand Ambassador for Berry Bros. & Rudd, said:

“For me, the ideal spirit in winter months is all about rich and luscious flavours that tantalise the taste buds and warm the senses, and I believe our selection of casks in the Winter Release encapsulates this.

Our passion at Berry Bros. & Rudd lies in championing quality and celebrating diversity, and we hope you’ll find as much delight in discovering these treasures as we did in curating them.

We’ve lovingly assembled a range that explores spirits from the iconic ports of Islay to the Highlands of Scotland and the final bottling of our English Whisky Collection from the idyllic Cotswolds Distillery.”

The last of four 2023 bottlings celebrating English distilleries, an offering from the Cotswolds Distillery provides notes of prunes and dates, an excellent finale to the English Collection.

Rounding out the Winter Release are a 33-year-old Exceptional Cask Miltonduff, one of the unsung heroes of Speyside and a magnificent representation of the Elgin-based distillery.

The 2023 Winter Release, featuring Caol Ila 2011, Williamson 2015, Dailuaine 2012, Strathclyde 2005, Cotswolds 2018 and Exceptional Miltonduff 1990, will be available from 7th December 2023 at bbrspirits.com.

 TASTING NOTES 

Caol Ila 2011

Fresh aromas of warm orange, chocolate, peat smoke and unlit cigars rise slowly from the glass before a lighter note of sugared almonds appears. The palate is luscious and heavily peated whilst fruity orange, savoury peat, cocoa powder and grilled lime all balance perfectly. Clove and yet more orange linger long on the palate. This is something akin to a peated chocolate orange.

ABV: 46.0%

RRP: £75.00

Williamson 2015 Cask #181

This feisty Islay whisky surges from the glass on a gale of sooty peat, turf, iodine and lanolin oils. Herein lies great complexity, unlocked by a teaspoon or so of water and a little time. Those with patience are rewarded with rich farmyard aromas, smoked hay, damp earth and kippers. The palate follows this theme, flowing from pure turf smoke to dark orange chocolate and composting fruit. Smoke and spice flow in waves on the long finish.

ABV: 60.8%

RRP £80.00

Dailuaine 2012 Cask #5052 / Oloroso Finish Lunar New Year Special Edition
Aromas of grassy, light green fruits fly out of the glass followed closely by tell-tale signs of thick, Sherry wood. Prunes, dates and spiced oak scale the olfactory senses. The palate is rich and full, holding one’s attention but balancing between distillate-driven orchard fruits and heavier Sherry notes. Spice roars across the finish building in intensity with a puff of wood smoke at the tip. Dailuaine’s heavy spirit is made for Sherry cask maturation and this meaty Oloroso butt has embraced the challenge beautifully.

ABV: 55.3%

RRP: £90.00

Strathclyde 2005 Cask #106490
The nose is initially reticent but some time in the glass brings out subtle banana bread, coconut milk and peach. The palate, conversely, is a crescendo of rich vanilla, cream soda, desiccated coconut and dark chocolate. It is incredibly powerful and integrates well with the high alcohol. The finish brings tingling spice and more subtle vanilla. Grain whisky really hits its stride at around 18 years and this is a prime example.

ABV: 56.5%

RRP: £102.00

Cotswolds 2018 Cask #2194
Aromas of dry, nutty Oloroso Sherry initially rise from the glass, building into dates, prunes and figs, before a little time to breathe reveals orchard fruits and a fresh floral side. The palate is pleasingly chewy, moving in waves from Sherry wood to green apples, honeycomb, and Victoria sponge. A long, lingering finish shows baking spice, prunes and a little citrus.

ABV: 53.5%

RRP: £125.00

Exceptional Miltonduff 1990 Cask #3809
This elegant Speyside dram gently rises from the glass with soft notes of coconut, warm malt loaf and stewed, spiced apples. A little time in the glass brings out candied pecans and peach skin. The palate is wonderfully fresh and vibrant with spice, soft fruit, citrus and honey. There is a perfect balance of subtle oak and fresh, peach driven distillate. Once again, we are reminded there is no substitute for long maturation in a delicate refill cask.

ABV: 54.1%

RRP: £680.00

Berry Bros. & Rudd

Berry Bros. & Rudd has been a trusted merchant since 1698 and this year it celebrates 325 years in business. It’s survived over the centuries because, as a family business, it has always operated with family values in mind. Recognised as the global destination for fine wine and spirits, Berry Bros. & Rudd still operates from its historic home at No. 3 St James’s Street and are committed to helping customers drink better now, and in the future. As it marks its 325th year, it continues to collaborate with our community of customers, producers, and colleagues to help create a sustainable future so it can confidently raise a toast to the next 325 years.

THE ART OF THE BLEND

This holiday season, give the gift of experience.  46+ years to be exact.  The first release in the series was created by Max McFarlane, with over 46 years in the Scotch whisky industry. Now available at Wally’s in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills and online via this link  while supplies last.

The Art of the Blend, a new concept in blended malt, working with multiple whisky makers to create a series of one-off blends. Max has carefully selected and married three first fill Oloroso sherry casks from Craigellachie, Aultmore and Glenrothes, creating an absolute masterpiece, an award winning work of art, never to be released again.  Each release in the series will be created by a different whisky maker.

Limited to only 1968 bottles worldwide.  $350 per 700 ml bottle.  58.8% abv, non chill filtered, natural color.

news@theartoftheblend.com   www.theartoftheblend.com   @theartoftheblend

DECEMBER 2023 AUCTION LIVE TODAY!

Celebrating our first year at Click Whisky Auctions, we have an exciting selection of bottlings for you this month, including some nice vintages like these stunning bottles from PORT ELLEN distillery.

We have not one but two gorgeous bottles from Cadenhead’s this month, the 14 Years Old Glen Esk and the 9 Years Old Rosebank, both bottled at Cask Strength.

Next up, we have two fine Manager’s Drams, a 16 Year Old Glen Elgin from 1993 and Oban 16 Years Old 200^th Anniversary bottling.

If you fancy something completely different, we have a selection of Japanese distillery bottlings for you this month.

These are only a few of the bottles in our December auction, to view more wee gems visit clickwhiskyauctions.com. Register to bid. Remember, you’ve got to be in it to win it! Auction ends Sunday 17th December from 8pm GMT.