Greetings from the sunny SWA headquarters! Finally the world is getting back to some form of normality and what better way to celebrate than some delicious drams just in time for barbecue season! This month boasts a grand selection of golden nectar to share with friends and family and toast to the good times ahead!

If you’re still feeling experimental we have the perfect selection of wacky and wonderful single malts from experimental distillers Bruichladdich. This batch has 24 single malts from the highly endeared Micro Provenance Range. Each differing in almost every aspect of production you’ll be sure to have a nip to suit everyone’s taste.

Whether it’s a wee dram to enjoy the sunsets with or a fine malt to celebrate the football scores (or in Scotland’s case to drown our sorrows with), we have a little something for everyone! Get bidding and make the most of the good weather folks.

All the best from us here at SWA!

Sláinte!

Speaking of taste, there’s few more distinct than these beauties! From the sunny shores of Loch Indaal comes the legendary Bowmore 1964 Series. After sleeping for over 40 years in the infamous No. 1 Vaults these Islay heavyweights are some of the finest Bowmore spirits on the market. Black, White & Gold .This month we have all 3 so don’t miss out!

As well as a strong selection of 2021 Feis Ile bottlings we have a special homegrown Campbeltown treat for you; The Springbank 1966 Local Barley! This absolute gem is produced entirely from Kintyre-grown barley. Matured in Spanish Oak Sherry Casks and perfect for a Summer night tipple!

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New whisky has landed: Laphroaig 16 Year Old!

Expect classic Laphroaig characteristics here, with the dial turned down a little; the sweet, vanilla American oak has rounded off the intensity of its smoky flavours to create a mellow and summery dram.

Laphroaig 16 Year Old
£87.95
Buy Now ›

https://youtu.be/YPefAN7h4H0

When something of this calibre is released, I like to try my hardest to get one. Second time was a charm with this one!

Cask strength Bowmore is a truly remarkable thing. Yeah, it’s just a liquid…I get that. But for whisky drinkers, admirers, just fans as a whole, cask strength Bowmore is the highest of the high. I’ve never been disappointed by any official or independent bottlings of the stuff.

Released for Feis Ile 2021, this 18YO is packed with chocolate orange, pine, soft smoke, a huge finish and many reminders of how remarkable Bowmore can be. It’s overshadowed by other Islay distilleries who may release bigger, more powerful versions of their whiskies on a regualr basis. But when Bowmore do it, they hit all of the right notes. Exceptional.

IRISH DISTILLERS LAUNCHES ‘A PERFECT BLEND’ PODCAST 

The four-part podcast miniseries highlights the partnerships at the heart of Irish whiskey 

Dublin, June 24^th, 2021 – Irish Distillers, producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys has today, announced the launch of a new podcast, ‘A Perfect Blend’.

Produced and hosted by multi-award winning radio producer Julien Clancy, the four-part mini-series focuses on the power of collaboration, by bringing stories of craft and shared passions from the world of Irish whiskey, the world’s fastest growing premium spirit, to life. The podcast features commentary from some of the industry’s most influential voices who reflect on shared aspirations, lessons learned and hopes for the future.

‘A Perfect Blend’ begins with Irish Distillers cooper Killian O’Mahony and President of Kelvin Cooperage in Kentucky, Paul McLaughlin, who discuss the origins of their enthusiasm for the age-old craft of coopering. In the second episode, Richard Forsyth of distillery design and build firm, Forsyths, and distiller at Irish Distillers, Katherine Condon, speak about the discovery of their unique skills and relationship with the great copper pot still.

In the third episode, forestry consultant and Pro Silva Ireland co-founder Paddy Purser and Finbarr Curran, the man responsible for sourcing Irish Distillers’ barrels, give an insight into the how the industry is working together on cask sustainability. In the concluding episode, Irish Distillers archivist Carol Quinn and design duo Matthew Bolger and Emelie Lindstrom of M+E Design reflect on the art of storytelling and the unexpected benefits of collaboration.

Conor McQuaid, CEO and Chairman of Irish Distillers said: “Our community extends beyond Midleton Distillery and the shores of Ireland. With the launch of this podcast we seek to the explore the unique bonds and common threads that shape our story and celebrate the power of the partnerships that we have with craftspeople all over the world. Over four episodes, we want to highlight their contribution to the international success of Irish whiskey. We hope that listeners will enjoy this mini-series and will take away insights and perspectives from our industry that they may not have expected.”

Episodes are available to download now on Audioboom, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Castbox, RadioPublic.

About Irish Distillers

Irish Distillers is Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines, and producer of some of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys. Led by Jameson, our brands are driving the global renaissance of Irish whiskey. Jameson is the world’s bestselling Irish whiskey, experiencing 30 years of consecutive growth up to 2019 and hitting sales of 7.6m cases in 2020. Our brands are exported to 130+ markets.

Irish Distillers was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and Cork Distilleries Company. In 1988 Irish Distillers joined Pernod Ricard, gaining access to unprecedented levels of investment and an extensive global distribution network. Since 2012, we have invested over €400 million to double our production and bottling capacity to meet global demand for our products.

We employ over 600 people across our operations in Cork and Dublin.

About Pernod Ricard 

Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirits with consolidated sales of €9,182 million in FY19. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has developed through organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard, which owns 16 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive brand portfolios in the industry, including: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard’s brands are distributed across 160+ markets and by its own salesforce in 73 markets. The Group’s decentralised organisation empowers its 19,000 employees to be true on-the-ground ambassadors of its vision of “Créateurs de Convivialité.” As reaffirmed by the Group’s three-year strategic plan, “Transform and Accelerate,” deployed in 2018, Pernod Ricard’s strategy focuses on investing in long-term, profitable growth for all stakeholders. The Group remains true to its three founding values: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust, and a strong sense of ethics. As illustrated by the 2030 roadmap supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “We bring good times from a good place.” In recognition of Pernod Ricard’s strong commitment to sustainable development and responsible consumption, it has received a Gold rating from Ecovadis and is ranked No. 1 in the beverage sector in Vigeo Eiris. Pernod Ricard is also a United Nation’s Global Compact LEAD company.  Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index

How to taste whisky

Whisky is one of the most exquisite alcoholic beverages available, which is available in a wide variety of flavors, ranging from light to concentrated and smoky. This diversity of taste experiences is one of the main reasons why people love whisky. However, there are some ways to taste it at its best and enjoy its unique flavor even more.

Add your whisky in a special glass

Whisky is served in small glass tumblers, which may be available in various presentations. For example, there are low-ball whiskey glasses or tulip-shaped glasses, the latter being one of the best options to better enjoy the aroma and flavor of whisky.

To taste whiskey in the best way, it would be best to avoid plastic glasses altogether.

 Start by pouring a small amount of whisky.

The best way to taste whisky is to ingest it little by little. So, first of all, start by pouring a small amount, approximately 20-40 milliliters. Then, smell the whisky several times before tasting it, so that your nose gets used to it and can perceive its aroma. Then, taste it before deciding to add ice or water. No doubt, by doing this your palate will have a pretty clear idea about the flavor of the whisky and you will be able to taste it in the best way.

Let the whisky sit in your mouth for a few seconds

Once you have taken your first sip of whisky, leave it in your mouth for a few seconds, allowing your tongue to wrap around it. This way you will be able to appreciate its full flavor. In fact, there are some drinkers who like to “chew” the whiskey. This practice is perfect to fully enjoy this drink.

 Use whisky stones

It is common to add ice to cool the whisky, but this causes the drink to dilute a little and lose some of its natural flavor. Therefore, the best way to taste whiskey is by using whisky stones. They allow you to cool the drink without diluting it, so your experience will be unforgettable.

ESPRIT WHISKY

Laphroaig 16 Year Old

Originally released in 2015 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the distillery, it was so well-received that they decided to release more! This 16-year-old has spent its life in ex-bourbon barrels, allowing for the whisky’s smoky profile to soften over the years, rounded off by the vanilla notes from the American Oak. It is bottled at 48% abv without chill filtration or added colouring. A limited release and slightly mellower version of the iconic Islay single malt from Laphroaig.

£87.95 … buy now →

There are rich leather aromas with oaky spices, maple syrup and roasted chestnuts. The taste is honey and treacle sweet with that classic Laphroaig character of creosote and salted seaweed. Plenty of smoky notes and a hint of medicinal character. A lovely example of an Islay dram!

Natalie, The W Club Manager

Finally, we have Lindores Single Malt Whisky!

We are delighted to announce that our Scotch Whisky will be made available to buy on 2nd July 2021, a mere 527 years after distillation was first recorded at Lindores Abbey, in 1494.

Our new releases are the Lindores Single Malt Scotch Whisky MCDXCIV (1494) “Commemorative first release” and the Lindores Single Malt Scotch Whisky MCDXCIV (1494), both containing the same exquisite Lowland single malt spirit with the Commemorative release being presented with a label marking the occasion.

Both the Commemorative and the Lindores Single Malt will be available to purchase from a variety of independent retailers and stockists from 2nd July, a full list of which can be found on the Lindores website.

The distillery will be selling the Lindores Single Malt directly or on our website from 2nd July 2021 (limited to 1 bottle per person), but will not be selling the Commemorative. We made the decision to sell this exclusively through our many distributors and whisky shops that have supported us over the last few years, and who we can now in turn support.

It is wonderful to be able to announce a public release date, as we know our fans across the world have been keen to enjoy a sip of whisky history. The Lindores Single Malt will be available for £46 plus postage from our website, and the thinking behind this is that we want all our whisky to be accessible and enjoyed rather than only collected. If people want to enjoy our product they can do so even if they are not fortunate enough to obtain a commemoratively labelled bottle.

In other news, our Legacy bar is open again on Friday nights, and it is wonderful having people join us at the distillery for distillery tours which can now end with and a dram of our very own whisky! We hope to see as many of you as possible in the next few months, and thank you, as always for all your support.

Slàinte

Helen and Drew McKenzie Smith
Custodians of Lindores Abbey Distillery

Laphroaig 10 Year Old 2010

Matured in oloroso sherry hogsheads bottled 2021 this mighty impressive Laphroaig was selected and bottled my Morrison Distillers for the Strictly Limited series. Williamson 10 Year Old 2010 vintage Islay single malt Scotch whisky distilled at Laphroaig distillery. Matured in oloroso sherry hogsheads bottled 2021 by Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers for the Strictly Limited series. 1,052 bottles. MAXIMUM 1 BOTTLE PER CUSTOMER.

Laphroaig Distillery was established in 1815 on the rocky south coast of the Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland. This malt whisky distillery continues to malt barley using its traditional malting floors and malt kiln. In 1994 the distiiley was awarded the Royal Warrant. The core range is quite extensive and supplemented by limited releases including a 21 year old was issued in 2015 to celebrate 21 years of Friends of Laphroaig. Independent bottlings are also available from Signatory, Cooper’s Choice and Hunter Laing. Laphroaig distillery also participates in Feis Ile, the Islay Festival of Malt and Music.

Buy Now – Laphroaig 10 Years – £75 / €72 / $87 / c$107*

Welcome to this weeks episode of the show in which I’ll be reviewing the latest release in the Moment series, the Brukswhisky DLX along with a few Moment bottlings from the past. I hope you enjoy it!

https://youtu.be/7IuROguL4KU

The Epicurean Launches Two New “Wood Series” Single Cask Bottlings 

Douglas Laing & Co has today released both a Ruby Port Finished and Tawny Port Finished Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky as part of The Epicurean Wood Series.

The Epicurean’s fourth and fifth specialist Single Cask releases are bottled at a high alcohol strength of 48% and are proudly offered without chill-filtration. The 100% natural, rich colour of the spirit in each edition has been imparted by the Ruby Port or Tawny Port seasoned Single Cask used for maturing the award-winning Lowland Malt. With this innovative series, The Epicurean seeks to demonstrate that flavour is created throughout the Whisky-making process but most significantly during the interaction between the spirit and the wood when it is in the oak cask.

For both bottlings, The Epicurean Malt was first matured in premium American Oak before being re-racked into a hand-selected Ruby Port Single Cask or Tawny Port Single Cask for a second maturation period of more than twelve months. The result is a full-bodied Malt with layers of complexity and character.

Both the Ruby Port cask and Tawny Port cask originate from the Douro Valley in northern Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world.

Cara Laing, Director of Whisky, who hand-selected the casks commented: “The Epicurean is a master of versatility, his wonderfully fresh and vibrant Lowland character lends itself beautifully to experimentation with different wood finishes. The deep colour presented in each of these releases speaks for the intense flavour of the spirit. The Ruby Port Finish boasts an explosion of flavours including spices, milk chocolate and tangy raspberries; and The Tawny Port Finish embodies the vibrant taste of juicy pears, red wine and sweet almonds. We are delighted with the result of these bottlings and can’t wait to innovate with the next release in The Epicurean Wood Series.”

Packed in a premium gift tube, The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish Limited Edition and The Epicurean Tawny Port Finish Limited Edition are expected to retail at £59.99/€70 from good specialist retailers. 

About The Epicurean:

Facebook: @DLTheEpicurean
Instagram: @theepicureanwhisky

A marriage of Single Cask Single Malts, only from the Lowland region of Scotland, The Epicurean is characterised by his fresh, zesty and grassy flavour profile. The multi-award winning Scotch Whisky belongs to Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts -“the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions” – also encompassing Timorous Beastie Highland Malt Scotch Whisky, Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Island (from the Islands) and Big Peat (Islay). 

About Douglas Laing:

www.douglaslaing.com

Twitter @DLaingWhisky
Facebook: @douglaslaingwhisky
Instagram: @dlaingwhisky

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

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

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

Douglas Laing’s Remarkable Regional Malts, the Ultimate Distillation of Scotland’s Malt Whisky Regions, encompasses The Epicurean Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky, Timorous Beastie (Highlands), Scallywag (Speyside), The Gauldrons (Campbeltown), Rock Islands (Islands) and Big Peat (Islay). Beyond its Blended Malts expertise, the award-winning Douglas Laing portfolio also includes Provenance, Premier Barrel, Old Particular and Xtra Old Particular, collectively known as the firm’s “Exceptional Single Casks”.