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| 13 Mar 19 | Claxton’s 2019 Spring Release Claxton’s is launching the first release of the year - ‘CLAXTON’S 2019 SPRING RELEASE’. This new outturn includes five Single Cask, Single Malt Scotch Whiskies hand-picked for their quality, diversity and value. Selected in this outturn are the following single cask releases:
Claxton’s 2019 Spring Release will be available globally in selected specialist whisky retailers from the end of March. As with all Claxton’s The Single Cask range, each bottling selected is available in limited numbers. Previous releases have been praised by reviewers and fans across the globe for demonstrating the virtues of single cask whisky. Claxton’s is a family owned, independent whisky bottling company based in North Yorkshire, United Kingdom. The Single Cask range of whiskies is available through a select number of specialist outlets in the UK, Europe and the Far East.
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| 26 Feb 19 | Port Ellen have announced they will release a 39-Year-Old single malt from original, finite stocks in early April.The brand introduces the first exclusive release of the “Untold Stories Series” worldwide; an exploration into the innovative and trailblazing background of this iconic Islay distillery. Port Ellen: Untold Stories The Spirit Safe(50.9% ABV) is one of the oldest releases from the revered distillery. A limited 1,500 bottles will be available from selected luxury retailers globally with an RRSP of £4,500. An elegant and complex Single Malt Scotch Whisky, expertly married from a selection of ex US-Bourbon and ex European Sherry refill cask. On the nose, it is mild to begin with, with an abundance of fruit. On the palate there is the regular smoke from classic Islay peat, but much softer – the sweet, salty then smoky taste gives a complex yet balanced finish. Port Ellen distillery was closed over thirty years ago in 1983, set to remain silent for all time. It is now to be reopened in 2021, and while the world waits for it to start production again, only a very finite amount of its original stock remains.
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| 06 Feb 19 | Douglas Laing release their Old Particular 2019 “Elements” Single Cask Collection Leading Scotch Whisky specialist, Douglas Laing & Co, today announce a series of Old Particular Single Cask Limited Edition bottlings for 2019, inspired by the four Elements of Fire, Air, Earth and Water. The series launches with the “Fire” bottling which, very aptly, is a mocha-spiced Craigellachie 12 Years Old from a well-fired and characterful Sherry butt. All the Old Particular Elements Single Casks are bottled at natural cask strength and are proudly offered without colouring or chill-filtration. The packaging for these specialist bottlings depicts an intricate illustration of each of the four Elements.Cara Laing, Douglas Laing’s Director of Whisky who selected the Whiskies, comments: “Our cask selection and packaging design pays tribute to the natural elements that contribute so significantly to the production of Scotch Whisky. From oak trees to charred casks, peat and of course water, this specialist Single Cask Collection celebrates the role of the Elements in the Whisky-making cycle.” The Old Particular Single Cask Collection features four Whiskies each paired with one of the Elements – they will be available globally from specialist retailers worldwide. The first release, Craigellachie 12 Years Old “Fire” Edition is at cask strength and is expected to retail at £95. |
| 24 Jan 19 | Kingsbarns Distillery’s Single Malt Takes Flight Named to mark the Wemyss Family’s vision to bring malt whisky distilling to their Fife home, the new release is a truly local dram, having been slowly crafted with barley harvested exclusively from the golden fields of East Fife. The result is a beautifully light, clean yet complex Lowland style malt whisky which perfectly captures the essence of this quiet and enchanting corner of Scotland. Dream to Dram is packaged in gentle shades of blue, gold and brown to symbolise the natural elements of the East Neuk, with a pigeon motif representing the historic ‘doocot’ (Scots for dovecot) that sits at the heart of the distillery – a restored farm steading dating back to the 1800s. Today, owners William and Isabella Wemyss are gathering friends, neighbours and whisky lovers from around the world at the Distillery to celebrate and share a first taste of Dream to Dram as it is shipped global markets. The Dream The Dram Maturation is primarily in high calibre first fill bourbon casks (90%), sourced exclusively from Heaven Hill in Kentucky by Isabella Wemyss, with the remainder maturing in shaved, toasted and re-charred wine casks. All Kingsbarns casks are matured in warehouses not far from the distillery in Fife. The Taste Speaking on behalf of the Wemyss family as they celebrate the launch of Dream to Dram today, William Wemyss said: ‘This is an immensely proud day for Kingsbarns Distillery and everyone who has been involved in turning our dream of making whisky in Fife into a reality. Dream to Dram is a wonderful single malt that I think perfectly captures the Lowland style and the character of our East Neuk home in Fife. So much hard work, skill and dedication has gone into crafting our whisky over the past three years so my thanks and congratulations go to everyone at Kingsbarns. We’ll be raising a glass of Dream to Dram tonight to toast what I’m sure will be a most exciting future for our new whisky as we share it with drinkers around the world.’ Dream to Dram is the first generally available single malt whisky from Kingsbarns Distillery. It follows a limited release of the exclusive ‘Founders Reserve’ for members of the Kingsbarns Distillery Founders Club in December 2018. www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com |
| 15 Jan 2019 | The Edinburgh Whisky Academy launches an online Introduction to Whisky Certificate The Edinburgh Whisky Academy, which is fully accredited by the Scottish Qualifi cations Authority (SQA), has launched their fi rst tier of education. The Academy was specifi cally created to fi ll a vital gap in Scotch Whisky education and is slowly developing its course offerings. A further course, The Diploma in the Art of Tasting Whisky is scheduled to launch in the Spring, more information to come. Founder and Managing Director Kirsty McKerrow has long been aware of the need for independent qualifi cations in the whisky industry. She said “Our online Introduction to Whisky Certifi cate will make independent, high quality whisky education globally accessible. Like all of our courses, this is awarded and certifi ed by the SQA so candidates have the option of taking a formal assessment if they wish to achieve this certifi cate.’The online Introduction to Whisky Certifi cate provides true knowledge and information on the key aspects of Scotch Whisky history and production. It was developed with the close involvement of notable experts within the whisky industry. Kirsty said, “Until now, there was no recognised independent qualifi cation delivered online for whisky training. Of great importance is that the knowledge gained is totally impartial and neutral from any distillery or brand. The course will be welcomed by whisky industry workers, hospitality staff and spirits retailers and also by whisky enthusiasts keen to expand their knowledge” The Academy invites any industry or hospitality group who wants to use the course for their internal training to contact them directly. |
| 15 Jan 2019 | THE GAME OF THRONES SINGLE MALT SCOTCH Notes: |
| 14 Sep 18 | Diageo Special Releases 2018 – Price List CAOL ILA UNPEATED 15 year old ABV 59.1% Region: Islay Cask: Refill & Rejuvenated American Oak Hogsheads and Ex-Bodega European Oak Butts Limited quantities worldwide RRP £100 CAOL ILA 35 year old ABV 58.1% Region: Islay Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads & Refill European Oak Butts No of bottles: 3,276 RRP £675 CARSEBRIDGE 48 year old ABV 43.2% Region: Lowland Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads No. of bottles: 1,000 RRP £750 CLADACH ABV 57.1% Region: Coastal Cask: First Fill American Oak ex-Bourbon casks, Refill American Oak Hogsheads, Refill European Oak Butts, Ex Bodega European Oak Butts Limited quantities worldwide RRP £155 INCHGOWER 27 year old ABV 55.3% Region: Speyside Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads No of bottles: 8,544 RRP £300 LAGAVULIN 12 year old ABV 57.8% Region: Islay Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads Limited quantities available worldwide RRP £110 OBAN 21 year old ABV 57.9% Region: Highlands Cask: Refill European Oak Butts Limited quantities worldwide RRP £450 PITTYVAICH 28 year old ABV 52.1% Region: Speyside Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads No of bottles: 4,680 RRP £330 THE SINGLETON GLEN ORD 14 year old ABV 57.6% Region: Highlands Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads and Ex-Bodega European Oak butts followed by a unique maturation and marrying process Limited quantities available worldwide RRP £100 TALISKER 8 year old ABV 59.4% Region: Island Cask: First fill Ex-Bourbon American Oak Hogsheads Limited quantities worldwide RRP £70 |
| 24 Aug 18 | Discover the best kept secret in Scotch: Mortlach brings bold flavour to Speyside Speyside distillery, Mortlach, unveils three new bottlings, providing a glimpse into the best kept secret in Scotch. The Single Malt Whiskies will delight flavour seekers, offering a new dimension that eschews the smoke traditionally associated with big-flavoured whisky. In a region generally known for its smoother, gentler style of whisky, Mortlach’s exceptional flavour bridges the gap between mellow and smoky. The three new bottlings - 12-year-old “Wee Witchie”,16-year-old Distiller’s Dram and 20-year-old Cowie’s Blue Seal - are set to bring the dark side of Speyside to life. Using a fiendishly complex distillation process unique to Mortlach known as “The Way”, the audacious approach to distillation has remained unchanged since it was invented by distiller’s son Dr Alexander Cowie in 1896. The precise 2.81 distillation process is a closely guarded secret, handed down through generations of Mortlach distillers. It is this process which creates Mortlach’s distinct and thick character spirit, with dark, complex and rich notes, earning it the nickname, The Beast of Dufftown. Dr Craig Wilson, Master Blender, said: “These whiskies really stand out in Speyside. For me it’s the way the unique 2.81 process gives you such an intensely complex liquid and character from the minute it comes off the still; it’s like having three distilleries at the one still house. Our job is to hone the character in the right way to give you three well balanced whiskies of unparalleled richness and complexity.” Mark Brunton, Distillery Manager, said: “It’s an honour to work in a distillery with such a distinct heritage and I love the challenge that comes with it. We worked with our colleagues in maturation to create a diverse range with each at its heart still reflecting the bold distillery flavour. The 16-year-old is a classic Mortlach expression, while the 12-year-old offers a strong distillery character through its use of refill casks. The 20-year-old offers a balance of character and distillery character with active wood.” Mortlach 12-year-old, 16-year-old and 20-year-old will first launch in Taiwan in autumn, followed by other markets. Mortlach 12-year-old Wee Witchie RRSP: £50 ABV: 43.4% Barrels: European and American oak. Ex sherry & ex bourbon. In brief: “It’s at its most expressive on the mid-palate where you pick out bitter chocolate, marmalade and light tobacco that’s balanced by a puddle of syrup before it deepens further…”
Mortlach 16-year-old Distiller’s Dram RRSP: £80 ABV: 43.4% Barrels: Ex-sherry In brief: “Dark, full, liquorous, and rounded. As it moves into the back palate, so it starts to dry and pick up in terms of intensity…”
Mortlach 20-year-old Cowie’s Blue Seal RRSP: £200 ABV: 43.4% Barrels: Ex-sherry In brief: “The mature depth seen on the nose comes immediately into focus, but before it goes towards the dark there’s a refreshing lift of aromatic and overripe fruits (quince especially) and a touch of spiciness…”  |
| 28 Apr 18 | TALISKER LAUNCHES THE TALISKER BODEGA SERIES: TALISKER 40 YEAR OLD Talisker unveils a 40-year-old Sherry finished single malt: one of the oldest and most unique expressions to date Talisker introduces the Talisker Bodega Series: an exploration of exceptional Sherry Cask finishes on the finest of Single Malt Whiskies, celebrating age-old sherry relationships dating as far back as the 1900s. Adding to the Talisker portfolio, this new and exclusive series of Single Malt releases will offer collectors a taste of historic wineries of the renowned Sherry Triangle, where Talisker once sourced its casks. In late June, the first exclusive release of the Talisker Bodega Series worldwide will be unveiled; Talisker 40 Year Old. With only 2,000 bottles produced, the 40 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is one of the oldest from Skye’s oldest distiller and is set to be one of Talisker’s most valuable expressions to date. The liquid has been expertly crafted using some of the most renowned sherry casks. This is to reflect an exploration of an age-old relationship rooted in craft and excellence between Talisker and one of the world’s finest and oldest sherry producers, Delgado Zuleta, from the Marco de Jerez region. To reinterpret the flavour profile of old, and commemorate these relationships, Talisker’s Master Blender has crafted this precious 40 year old liquid using a selection of the most mature and highly prized Vintage Talisker whisky, aged in refill casks. They then worked with the Sherry Masters at Bodega Delgado Zuleta, who hand picked five very special and unusual old ex-Sherry casks that once held the Bodega’s finest award-winning 40 year old Amontillado sherry. The result is a deep, crystal gold liquid which signifies an echo of the old Talisker, enhanced by the gentle accent of the Amontillado sherry casks, with rich raisin, peaty aromas and a rare sweet opulence and fruity smokiness. On the nose it’s mild and rich, with a light prickle. This is paired with the depth of the rich Delgado Zuleta Amontillado casks which is present in waves of fruit and sweetness enriching the traditional Talisker pepper and yielding a remarkably vigorous 40 year old that is a pleasure to drink. This golden spirit lies in a screen-printed bottle, and is housed in a hand-crafted wood casing to evoke the many stages of this whisky’s unique history. The design is inspired by the distinguished arches of the sherry Bodegas and architecture of the sundial of Sanlucar de Barrameda where the Delgado Zuleta casks are housed. Donald Colville, Global Talisker Ambassador comments “This Talisker 40 Year Old, is an exquisite Single Malt Scotch Whisky which captures the age-old relationships with Delgado Zuleta and the high quality craftsmanship which took place throughout the creation of this rare expression. We are delighted to launch this as the first of the Bodega series and the liquid is something that we are extremely proud of. It is a magnificent lion-hearted old Talisker, rich with the sophistication of age yet still full of life and retaining the make's familiar maritime and spicy character. With only 2,000 bottles produced this is the ultimate expression of luxury. Connoisseurs and collectors will aspire to have a bottle of Talisker 40 Year Old on their shelves, as it is a stunning example of where the warmth of Spain meets the wild of Skye.” Talisker has combined traditional craft skills with modern maturation techniques to produce this rare and unique Talisker expression that is the epitome of an age-old relationship. This limited edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky will be a seamless addition to the finest of Whisky collections around the globe. Talisker 40 Year Old will be available from selected luxury retailers globally from the end of June 2018 onwards. In the UK (domestic), RRSP of £2,750 per 70cl bottle.  |
| 14 Apr 18 | The 2018 Special Releases features eight single malt whiskies, plus a 48-year-old grain whisky. The Port Ellen and the Brora will be released outside of the Special Release Serie CARSEBRIDGE 48 year old CAOL ILA UNPEATED 15 year old CAOL ILA 35 year old INCHGOWER 27 year old LAGAVULIN 12 year old OBAN 21 year old PITTYVAICH 28 year old THE SINGLETON OF GLEN ORD 14 year old TALISKER 8 year old |
| 06 Mar 18 | MMA 2017- The Results! Since 1997, the malt maniacs (an international collective of malt whisky enthusiasts) have been enjoying and discussing the pleasures of (single malt) whisky with like-minded whisky lovers from all over the world. Since 2003, we have organised (non stop) our very own annual 'amateur' whisky competition. We like to think that, over the years, our modest little initiative has evolved into one of the leading (and most independent) whisky competitions in the world. You can find more details about our collective and its history on: www.maltmaniacs.net MMA 2017: The Rules Our fundamentals are:
Awards In the Malt Maniacs Awards, medals are won on merit, similar to the system that is used by the boy scouts. The winners in specific categories receive awards instead - hence the name of our competition. There are six award categories in three price brackets. We distinguish between these six awards categories:
Every bottle that is entered in our competition can win only one award (as well as only one medal). Apart from the six awards categories listed above, there are three different price brackets – Daily Drams (the bottles with a retail price of up to 50 Euros), Premium Whiskies (the bottles with a retail price between 50 and 150 Euros) and Ultra Premium Whiskies (the bottles with a retail price of more than 150 Euros).So there are 18 'standard' awards that are assigned each year - provided we can find a suitable candidate. And finally, the moment you are waiting for......!!!! AWARDS –Supreme Winner Kavalan 2009/2017 'Solist' (58.60%, OB, C#S090306031, Sherry Cask, 481 Bts.) AWARDS - Ultra Premium Category > Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Ultra Premium) > Best Natural Cask Award (Ultra Premium) > Best Sherry Cask Award (Ultra Premium). Yamazaki 25yo (43%, OB, Sherry) > Thumbs Up Award (Ultra Premium) AWARDS - Premium Category > Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Premium) AWARDS - Daily Drams Category > Non-Plus-Ultra Award (Daily Drams) Gold Medals (GM) Gold Medals as you all would agree are the cream of the crop! As mentioned earlier it is not easy to get a GM in MMA and the average GM winners per competition for last 14 years has been only eight!! The maximum of 15 were in the year 2006 with minimum being 3 in the inaugural year, 2003. 1.Kavalan 2009/2017 'Solist' (58.60%, OB, C#S090306031, Sherry Cask, 481 Bts.) Final words The MMA cannot take place without the participating companies submitting their bottles to us. So, a big thank you to them! The MMA2017 has been a very good year and as the next MMA will be the 15th anniversary of the awards, so malt lovers, expect something special in MMA2018!! |
| 06 Mar 18 | Milk & Honey Distillery – Israel’s first whisky distillery is launching a second edition of its single malt whisky Experimental Series After making history on International Whisky Day 2017 with the first single malt whisky in Israel, the Milk & Honey Distillery will launch a second edition of single malt whisky at "Whisky Live 2018 " After making history in 2017 with the first ever single malt whisky in Israel, sold at a particularly successful international public auction, Milk & Honey Distillery is launching an exclusive second edition of lightly peated single charred barrel. Similar to the first single malt whisky, this cask is also part of the Experimental Series, distilled in the early stages of setting up the distillery – before establishing the distillery in south Tel Aviv and acquiring the current industrial equipment, and before crowd-funding through Indiegogo. This cask was distilled during April 2014. Distillation of the cask was carried out in a small pot still in a warehouse in the Sharon region by head distiller Tomer Goren, accompanied by the late Dr. Jim Swan, an international master distiller, in his role as consultant to the distillery at the time. This was a period of experimentation for Dr. Swan and Tomer Goren, using various interesting raw materials, and in this special cask they first experimented with peated malt, which was crafted in house and gave the distillate light smoky notes. The liquid was aged and matured over 43 months in two types of barrel – first in a new 225 liter American oak cask, and then, after 28 months, it was transferred to an ex-bourbon cask for the remainder of the period in the distillation warehouse in Tel Aviv, and bottled at the optimal time. This series is a harbinger of what is to come: a unique Israeli whisky, mature for its age thanks to aging in Israel’s hot climate.
The Milk & Honey Distillery products, including the single malt, are distributed and marketed exclusively by Hacarem Spirits Ltd., and sold at hundreds of points of sale across Israel. The second edition of single malt whisky can be tasted and purchased for the first time at " Whisky Live 2018" event. Afterwards the new single malt will be available at specialized stores around the country.
Tasting impressions Nose – a delicate maltiness with a hint of lemon in the background, combined with light oak notes and cinnamon, all enveloped in light peat smoke appearing in the background. palate – light-bodied with a malty sweetness, lemon and orange peel notes followed by a light tang of black pepper and delicate peat smoke. These combine to make a whisky that is both balanced and complex. Finish – long. Delicate peat dominates the finish, with a hint of maltiness in the background and dark chocolate notes. General – a balanced and complex whisky. The combination of delicate maltiness and light peat that creates an interesting whisky that develops as you drink. Price: Edition 2 Single Malt Whisky 500 ml NIS 449
About the distillery The Milk & Honey Distillery is the first and largest whisky distillery in Israel. The distillery produces superior spirits, and is working on an Israeli single malt whisky to be marketed commercially, whose first edition, the Founders Edition, sold out in a successful crowd-funding campaign, is aging in barrels and will see the light in 2019. All the raw materials, equipment, barrels, and processes have been chosen with the aim of ensuring that the final product – whether clear spirit or aged whisky – meets the most stringent standards of quality and taste, without making compromises or cutting corners on the long journey to produce the whisky: guidance and advice from the late Jim Swan, a world-renowned master distiller specializing in hot climate aging; specially designed equipment; carefully selected barrels; and the best raw materials available. The Milk & Honey Distillery 16 HaTehiya St., Tel Aviv – 03-6320491 |
| 10 Oct 17 | Scotch whisky producer Ian Macleod Distillers is set to restart production at Lowland distillery Rosebank in Falkirk. nown for its Lowland single malts, the distillery closed in 1993, when previous owner Diageo mothballed the building. Ian Macleod Distillers, maker of the Glengoyne, Tamdhu and Smokehead Scotch brands, has entered into a binding agreement with Scottish Canals to purchase the site. The company has also acquired the Rosebank trademark, along with the distillery’s existing casks, from Diageo. The distiller said its plans include a visitor centre to help tell the story of the Lowland single malt. “Rosebank is one of the most respected and sought after single malts in the world,” said Leonard Russell, managing director of Ian Macleod. “To bring back to life an iconic distillery and quintessential Lowland single malt is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.” The history of the Rosebank Distillery dates back to 1840, when James Rankine acquired the maltings of the Camelon Distillery, located on the opposite side of the Forth & Cyde canal to the main distillery. Russell added: “The distillery has a very special place in Scotland’s whisky heritage and we are committed to ensuring this is the case. We will produce Rosebank Lowland single malt in exactly the same way as it is known, using the famous triple distillation and worm tub condensers. This way we ensure the revival of its classic style and taste. “Over the coming months we will carefully review Rosebank’s rare stocks with a view to releasing some truly scarce and extraordinary whiskies.” “We have no doubt that demand for these releases will be exceptionally high.” The revival follows Diageo’s £35 million (US$46m) investment to revive two cult distilleries, Port Ellen and Brora, also announced this week. Source: https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/ |
| 10 Oct 17 | Iconic “lost” distilleries revived in major scotch investmentPORT Ellen and Brora, two of the most revered “lost” distilleries in the global spirits industry, are to be brought back to life in a powerful statement of confidence in the future of Scotch whisky. The distilleries, which have been silent since they were closed in 1983, will be brought back into production through a £35 million investment by Diageo, the world’s leading Scotch whisky company. In the 34 years since Brora and Port Ellen were closed, the whiskies they produced have become some of the most highly prized and sought after liquids in Scotch whisky, renowned for exceptional quality and character; elevating the ghost distilleries to cult status amongst whisky enthusiasts and collectors. For many years whisky fans around the world have called on Diageo to reopen these closed distilleries. The decision is partly a response to those demands from existing enthusiasts but it also reflects the strong growth in the single malt Scotch market and the opportunity to create new generations of whisky consumers. Port Ellen Distillery on the famous whisky island of Islay, and Brora on the remote eastern coast of Sutherland, will both be reinstated to distil in carefully controlled quantities, with a meticulous attention to detail, replicating where possible the distillation regimes and spirit character of the original distilleries. Cask filling and traditional warehousing will also be included on the sites of both distilleries. The distilleries will also have dedicated Brand Homes to welcome guests and they are expected to become iconic attractions in the Scottish tourism landscape, attracting whisky pilgrims from around the globe. Dr Nick Morgan, Diageo’s Head of Whisky Outreach, who played an instrumental role in building the reputation of Port Ellen and Brora whiskies through the Diageo Special Releases programme, which has been running since 2001, announced the plans on behalf of the company. He said: “This is a truly exceptional moment in Scotch whisky. Port Ellen and Brora are names which have a uniquely powerful resonance with whisky-lovers around the world and the opportunity to bring these lost distilleries back to life is as rare and special as the spirit for which the distilleries are famous. “Only a very few people will ever be able to try the original Port Ellen and Brora single malts as they become increasingly rare, so we are thrilled that we will now be able to produce new expressions of these whiskies for new generations of people to enjoy. “Scotch whisky is Scotland’s gift to the world and the rebirth of these distilleries is a great gift to malt whisky lovers everywhere.” David Cutter, Diageo President of Global Supply & Procurement, who is responsible for leading the capital investment programme to reinstate the distilleries, said: “This is no ordinary Scotch whisky distillery investment. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring these iconic distilleries back to life. “We will take great care to be true to the spirit of the original distilleries in everything we do and to operate them with all the knowledge, skill, craft and love of Scotch that our people and our company has gathered through centuries of whisky-making.” Cristina Diezhandino, Diageo’s global Scotch Category Director, said: “Brora and Port Ellen are rightly revered around the world for their rarity and exceptional quality. Everything we do with these distilleries and brands will remain true to these values. “It is thrilling that, as the spirit from the original distilleries becomes vanishingly rare, our distillers at Brora and Port Ellen will be carefully crafting new whiskies to delight and inspire new generations of Scotch lovers around the world.” The new Brora and Port Ellen distilleries will be among Diageo’s smallest distilleries, capable of producing 800,000 litres of alcohol per year. They will replicate as closely as possible the previous taste profiles of Port Ellen and Brora, with medium peated character at both sites. Subject to planning permission and regulatory consents, detailed design, construction and commissioning work, it is expected the distilleries will be in production by 2020. Source: Diageo.com |
| 16 Sep 17 | Impeccably crafted flavours of Scotland: Diageo introduces the 2017 Special Releases Collection Ten impeccable limited edition Scotch Whiskies will be released in limited quantities this autumn, as part of Diageo’s annual Special Releases collection. Highly anticipated by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, the limited edition natural cask strength bottlings are rigorously selected each year, to form a rare and sought after collection. For the first time ever, a limited edition Blended Malt Scotch Whisky containing whiskies from all twenty-eight active Diageo distilleries has been released. The COLLECTIVUM XXVIII is the tenth bottle to make up the Special Releases collection and the fourth NAS Malt Whisky in this series to date. Clear amber in appearance, the liquid is described as ‘enjoying real depth’ with a palate ‘all the way from dry and nutty to rich and chocolatey, with zestiness and sweetness.’ Meticulously crafted and beautifully packaged, the collection comprises some of the rarest and oldest liquids from both classic and unknown, closed distilleries. Each whisky within the range offers complex flavours of the highest quality, delivering truly memorable taste experiences for those lucky enough to drink them. The 2017 Special Releases collection offers an extra special and rare gift alternative for this Christmas, with the whiskies in the range retailing from £90 for the LAGAVULIN 12 year old, to £2,625 for the PORT ELLEN 37 year old. Dr Nick Morgan, Diageo’s Head of Whisky Outreach said: “The Special Releases range is always a highlight in our calendar year, it reflects the truly extraordinary range of stocks our blenders have available to them. The variety and quality of whiskies in the collection is simply impeccable. We’re looking forward to sharing this year’s collection with the world and in particular keen to see the response to the new COLLECTIVUM XXVIII.” The PORT DUNDAS 52 year old is the oldest whisky ever released in the series, as well as the oldest bottle to ever be released by the Port Dundas distillery. The second release from the original distiller’s stocks, this is the fourth time a Single Grain Scotch Whisky has been included in an annual release. The liquid is described as ‘an excellent example of a very old grain... astonishingly rich and complex’. The GLEN ELGIN 18 year old has also made a welcome return to the range this year, a third release in this series, crafted from ex- Bodega European oak butts. Each whisky in the 2017 Special Releases range is a limited edition, rare bottling, with four originating from closed distilleries. These whiskies have been crafted to deliver memorable taste experiences unlike any other, to be cherished and enjoyed responsibly. Distribution/Availability Autumn 2017, from specialist retailers in Northern Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa and selected Asian markets. List of 2017 Special Releases BLAIR ATHOL 24 year old Distilled 1993 ABV 58.4% BRORA 34 year old Distilled: 1982 ABV 51.9% CAOL ILA 18 year old ABV 59.8% LAGAVULIN 12 year old ABV 56.5% PORT DUNDAS 52 year old Distilled: 1964 ABV 44.6% About the Special Releases PORT ELLEN 37 year old Distilled: 1979 ABV 51% TEANINICH 17 year old Distilled: 1999 ABV: 55.9%
COLLECTIVUM XXVIII Distilled: NAS ABV: 57.3% CONVALMORE 32 year old Distilled: 1984 ABV 48.2% GLEN ELGIN 18 year old Distilled: 1998 ABV 54.8%
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| 16 Aug 17 | LEARN ENOUGH TO START YOUR OWN DISTILLERY!
www.TheatreofDrams.scot Introducing a new Whisky Festival in Islay. 23-27 October 2017, Bowmore Hall, Islay. THEATRE OF DRAMS Whisky Symposium - Five days whisky making knowledge imparted by distillers, barley experts, chemists, coppersmiths, coopers, brand ambassadors and more. Sharing the science of the past, safeguarding the Scotch of the future. Theoretical lectures each morning follow the linear process of whisky making - Malting, Mashing, Distillation, Maturation, Libation/Marketing/Nosing & Tasting. Afternoons offer Peat Cutting, Gaelic (& English) Distillery Tours, Whisky Tastings, Ceilidh Corner, Independent Bottlers, Independent Distillers and much more. If time is short visit Islay for a day or two to attend, cherry pick events of value to you. Buy individual tickets from Eventbrite under the Theatre of Drams Organiser. New events uploaded daily.
Theatre of Drams is an expansion and development of the hugely successful Whisky Course Islay hosted by Whisky for Girls (& Guys!) and participating Islay distilleries in 2015 and 2016. Theatre of Drams teaches YOU the reality of Scotch whisky making. #ScotchTalk An Educational Celebration of Whisky Contact Rachel MacNeill. T: 0747 8109099 / 01496 810 940 email rachel@wildandmagicislay.com www.TheatreofDrams.scot www.WhiskyforGirls.com (& Guys!)
Calum MacGregor
Tour Manager www.WildandMagicIslay.com Whisky Tours & Events Rachel MacNeill Islay Whisky School www.TheatreofDrams.scot Whisky Symposium 23-27 Oct 2017 www.whiskyforgirls.com (& Guys!) |
| 29 May 17 | The Milk & Honey Distillery - Israel's first whisky distillery Israel's first single malt whisky! The wait for the first single malt whisky in Israel is over. Gearing up for World Whisky Day, that was marked on May 20, Milk & Honey bottled the first cask in its experimental series, an integral component of the formulation of the final product, now in production at the distillery. On May 20 - World Whisky Day, the first Israeli whisky was launched, and the initial sales of the distillery's first 391 bottles of single malt whisky will go on sale later in June. Milk & Honey - Israel's first whisky distillery is chalking up another achievement, with the announcement of the hotly anticipated sale of Israel’s first single malt whisky. On World Whisky Day, which marked on May 20 2017, the whisky will be launched and towards mid-June a sales event with 391 bottles from the first cask of the distillery's "Experimental Series" will be held at Milk & Honey Distillery and at selected stores throughout the country. Israel's first single malt whisky by The Milk & Honey Distillery is the first whisky to be produced and bottled in Israel after being aged in cask for minimum three years. It therefore complies with the definition of whisky in Scotland and most countries around the globe. It is the harbinger of what is yet to come - special Israeli whisky that is well mature, thanks to the warm Israeli climate.
The distillation of this historical whisky began at the distillery's early stages - even before it was established at its current location in south Tel Aviv, before the current industrial equipment was purchased, and before the successful crowd funding campaign on Indiegogo. The barrel was distilled in January 2014 in a warehouse in the Northern Sharon region , by Head Distiller Tomer Goren, together with internationally renowned master distiller, the late Dr. Jim Swan, as part of his role as consultant to the distillery at the time. The liquid was aged for 31 months in a 225-liter virgin American oak cask and then for another seven months in an ex-bourbon cask matured at the distillery's cask room in Tel Aviv. The first bottles of Israeli single malt whisky will go on sale to the public in June, distributed by Hacarem at select stores nationwide. About the distillery The Milk & Honey Distillery is Israel's first whisky distillery. It produces high-quality distillates and is working on Israeli single malt whisky that will be sold commercially. The first edition, the founders' edition, was sold entirely through a successful crowd funding campaign and is currently aging in barrels. It will be launched in 2019. All of the raw materials, equipment, barrels and processes were selected to ensure that the final product - white distillates or aged whisky - meets the strictest and most uncompromising standards of quality and flavor, without any shortcuts on the lengthy journey until the whisky is rolled out: training and consulting by the late Jim Swan - world-renowned master distiller, who specialized in maturation in warm climates; equipment that was custom designed and ordered; fastidiously selected barrels, and selection of the finest raw materials available. The Milk & Honey Distillery 16 HaThiya St., Tel Aviv, +972 (0) 363 20491 |
| 25 Apr 17 | Diageo Special Releases 2017: The first 9 bottles already annouced to avoid any speculations: BLAIR ATHOL™ 23 year old Distilled 1993 ABV 58.4% Region: Highlands Cask: Ex-Bodega European Oak Butts No of bottles: 5,514
BRORA™ 34 year old Distilled: 1982 ABV 51.9% Region: Coastal Highlands Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads No of bottles: 3,000
CAOL ILA™ 18 year old ABV 59.8% Region: Islay Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads Limited quantities available worldwide
CONVALMORE™ 32 year old Distilled: 1984 ABV 48.2% Region: Speyside Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads No of bottles: 3,972
GLEN ELGIN™ 18 year old Distilled: 1998 ABV 54.8% Region: Speyside Cask: Ex-Bodega European Oak Butts No of bottles: 5,352 LAGAVULIN™ 12 year old ABV 56.5% Region: Islay Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads Limited quantities available worldwide
PORT DUNDAS™ 52 year old Distilled: 1964 ABV 44.6% Region: Lowlands Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads No of bottles: 752
PORT ELLEN™ 37 year old Distilled: 1979 ABV 51% Region: Islay Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads & Refill American Oak Butts No of bottles: 2,988
TEANINICH™ 17 year old Distilled: 1999 ABV: 55.9% Region: Coastal Highlands Cask: Refill American Oak Hogsheads & Refill American Oak Barrels Limited quantities available worldwide |
| 21 Feb 17 | “I think we’ve started a movement” – these words, said during the first World Whisky Forum arranged last week, resonated with us. Welcome – please indulge yourself and enjoy some interesting speeches and discussions from the event. Super brief summary The World Whisky Forum attracted a diverse group of whisky makers from around the world to talk about how to promote creative development and evolve whisky making in the future. It was not an ordinary line-up of whisky countries. Among the 50 attendees no less then thirteen countries were represented - Austria, England, Ireland, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Scotland, Sweden, Switzerland and USA. The host for this event was Box Distillery, situated far up north in Sweden where the winter lasts for five months and the 63rd parallel goes straight through the warehouse. Some pointes that was discussed: - Ban the expression Craft from the industry. - Legislation is needed. ‘It’s in our interest to ensure that the regulations help not just the big brands, but the smaller distillers,’ - “A new wine cask finish is not innovation” See all the presentations and interviews on our website! You can also see interviews, full speeches and the panel discussions that took place on our website worldwhiskyforum.org. |
| 08 Feb 17 | Douglas Laing Reveals Old Particular “Consortium of Cards” Collection
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| 10 Nov 16 | Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017 Ein Wegweiser zu den besten Adressen des Landes Wer sich auf eine Reise begibt, gerät oft auf neue Wege. Und im Besonderen erlaubt dies die vielfältige Whisky-Szene der Schweiz, führt sie doch – ob mit dem Whiskyschiff über die idyllischsten Seen oder mit dem historischen Whiskyzug durch die romantischsten Gefilde – zu den Hotspots in Sachen Whisky durch die gesamte Eidgenossenschaft: vom frankophilen und internationalen Genf in das Dreiländereck nach Basel, hinüber in das metropolitane Zürich, über den Kurort St. Moritz in die Zentralschweiz nach Luzern bis nach Lugano und Brissago Richtung Dolce Vita. Zu entdecken ist der höchst gebrannte oder gelagerte Whisky und der höchste Whisky Trail der Welt wie die Tiefen und Schätze der Schweizer Felsenkeller und die südlichsten und westlichsten Zipfel des mehrsprachigen Landes; ausladende Bars wie die verb&uum l;rgt kleinste oder grösste Whiskybar der Welt; oder die Boutiquen und Kathedralen der Fachhändler, die den Whisky erst in die Schweiz bringen. Einführend bekommen Sie dafür Beiträge rund um das Thema Lebenswasser von anerkannten Whiskyschreibern und -Enthusiasten zur Seite gestellt. Die Themen reichen von einer persönlichen Einschätzung zur Entwicklung der Schweizer Whiskyszene zu einem „Erste Hilfe Kurs“ darüber, wie man über Whisky reden und ihn bewerten kann; auf welchen Pfaden man Whisky in den deutschsprachigen Ländern Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz erkunden und zu geniessen vermag; über das ausgewiesene Grundlagen-Know-how zur Herstellung des gereiften „uisge beatha“ hin zu den wichtigsten internationalen Neuheiten des Jahres. Im Zentrum des Buches sind indes die Protagonisten der Szene selbst porträtiert – darunter ausgewählte Highlights internationaler Whiskybrennereien, die in der Schweiz durch engagierte Importeure vertreten sind – ist das Wassser des Lebens doch mehr denn je als ein globales Phänomen zu verstehen; die lokalen Pioniere und Produzenten der heimischen Whiskys, die besten Whisky Bars und Shops des Landes und schliesslich die Clubs, Portale, Blogs und Foren für den gemeinsamen Austausch rund um das Lebenswasser. Zum Abschluss bietet ein Whiskykalender eine Übersicht wichtiger Messe- und Eventtermine über das Jahr hinweg. Kurzum: Der Whisky Guide bietet ein Panorama der heimischen Whisk(e)y-Szene in ihrer ganzen und überraschenden Größe und Vielfalt. Als handliches Nachschlagewerk für die wachsende Whisk(e)y-Gemeinde des Landes ist er so ein unverzichtbarer Reisebegleiter für genussvolle Entdeckungsreisen zum ganz eigenen „aqua vitae“.
Patrick Tilke Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017. Ein Wegweiser zu den besten Adressen des Landes. Tägerwilen (CH) 2016. 334 Seiten Preis: CHF 19.00 ISBN: 978-3-9523360-1-4 |
| 10 Nov 16 |
Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards 2016: Das sind die Sieger Feierliche Verleihung in Zürich Ehre für rührige Whisky-Menschen: Im stilvollen Ambiente des Four Points by Sheraton Sihlcity wurden zum Abend des 04. November 2016 in Zürich die „Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards“ verliehen. Mit dieser Auszeichnung würdigt der Herausgeber der „Whisky Time – Das Magazin für Geniesser“, die Medienbotschaft Verlag & Events GmbH mit Sitz in Tägerwilen (Schweiz), herausragende Leistungen in den Kategorien „Whisky Bar“, „Whisky Shop“, „Whisky National“ und „Whisky International“. Zudem wird der Ehrenpreis „Whisky Motion“ vergeben. Zahlreiche Gäste aus der Schweizer Whisky-Branche waren bei der Verleihung dabei und konnten so auch die Präsentation des neuen „Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017“ verfolgen. Das jährlich neu aufgelegte Buch ist Pflicht-Ratgeber und Reisebegleiter für alle Liebhaber des „Wasser des Lebens“ in der Schweiz. Inhalte des Buchs und die verliehenen Preise sind dabei eng miteinander verwoben. Jährlich werden dabei herausragende Whiskybars und -fachhändler in den Kategorien „Whisky Bar“ und „Whisky Shop“ ausgezeichnet. In der Kategorie „Whisky National“ werden hingegen herausragende Whiskys von Schweizer Whiskyproduzenten gekürt. Diese werden im Rahmen einer groß angelegten Blindverkostung ermittelt. Der Preis in der Kategorie „Whisky International“ würdigt indes die besten Produktneuheiten und interessantesten Entwicklungen auf dem Schweizer Whisky-Markt. In ihnen spiegelt sich das gute Gespür der Vertriebe und Brennereien für die große Liebhaberei, die das flüssige Gold in der Schweiz erfährt. Der Preis in der Kategorie „Whisky Motion“ würdigt zuletzt das individuelle und ausdauernde Engagement einer Person rund um den Whisky. Die Gewinner der Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards 2016 Switzerland´s Best Whisky Bar 2016:
Switzerland´s Best Whisky Shop 2016:
Switzerland´s Best Whisky National 2016:
Switzerland´s Best Whisky International 2016:
Switzerland´s Best Whisky Motion 2016:
Pressemitteilung
BU: Der Gewinner der Kategorie „Whisky Bar“ der Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards 2016 (v.l.): Patrick Tilke (Autor Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017), Petr Estvan, Christian Kramer jr. (Devil´s Place – Quaglinos), Claudio Bernasconi (Devil´s Place – Hotel Waldhaus am See).
BU: Der Gewinner der Kategorie „Whisky Shop“ der Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards 2016 (v.l.): Patrick Tilke (Autor Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017), Urs Ullrich (Paul Ullrich AG), Christian Rosenberg (Herausgeber Whisky Time – Magazin für Geniesser).
BU: Die Gewinner der Kategorie „Whisky National“ der Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards 2016 (v.l.): Patrick Tilke (Autor Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017), Ursula Zürcher, Daniel Zürcher (Spezialitätenbrennerei Zürcher).
BU: Der Gewinner der Kategorie „Whisky International“ der Switzerland´s Best Whisky Awards 2016 (v.l.): Patrick Tilke (Autor Whisky Guide Schweiz 2017), Robert Lippuner (Campari Schweiz AG), Christian Rosenberg (Herausgeber Whisky Time – Magazin für Geniesser).
BU: Der Gewinner der Kategorie „Whisky Motion“ der Switzerland's Best Whisky Awards 2016 (v.l.): Peter Haecky (Haecky Import AG), Christian Rosenberg (Herausgeber Whisky Time – Magazin für Geniesser). |
| 06 Oct 16 | A ‘Dram Fine Wedding’ for Pulteney Pair Old Pulteney has added the perfect ‘blend’ to its award-winning range of single malts – after a love match between two Pulteney staff led to a very special wedding at the Distillery in Wick. www.oldpulteney.com / @OldPulteneyMalt |
| 22 Sep 16 | Impeccably crafted flavours of Scotland: Diageo introduces the Distribution/Availability List of 2016 Special Releases BRORA™ 38 year old CAMBUS™ 40 year old CAOL ILA™ 15 year old CRAGGANMORE™
GLENKINCHIE™ 24 year old LAGAVULIN™ 12 year old LINKWOOD™ 37 year old MANNOCHMORE™ 25 year old PORT ELLEN™ 37 year old |
