Tuesday, September 3, 2013

THE WORLD’S “MOST SOUGHT AFTER , VALUABLE AND COLLECTIBLE” SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKIES Posted on 03/09/2013 by Pat Roberts Diageo has announced the ten Single Malt Whiskies that form its annual limited-edition Special Releases for 2013. In the words of Nik Keane, global director for malt whiskies at Diageo, they represent “some of the most sought after, valuable and collectible Single Malt Scotch Whiskies in the world”. The oldest in the collection is a Lagavulin™ at 37 years old and distilled in 1976 – the oldest expression of Lagavulin ever released by the distillers, in a dramatically limited edition of fewer than 2,000 bottles. It is flanked by a lively 12 year old Lagavulin. Georgie Crawford, distillery manager at Lagavulin, said: “Lagavulin is probably the most sought-after single malt whisky in production today - universally acknowledged as one of the unchallenged grands crus of Scotch Whisky. For many years we have been unable to supply sufficient mature spirit to meet worldwide demand. So bottlings of old Lagavulin are exceptionally rare, and this year’s 37 year old is the oldest that we have ever released. Its 12 year old younger brother makes a regular appearance in the Special Releases, and has always been received with huge enthusiasm.” Lagavulin 37yo Further North, from the Isle of Skye, 3,000 individually numbered bottles of a classic and sophisticated Talisker™ distilled in 1985 are destined to be much in demand from adorers of this legendary single malt. Three grown-up whiskies make the case for Speyside. An unusually mature example of Cardhu™, presented at 21 years old in fewer than 6,000 individually numbered bottles, will suggest an interesting comparison with the 22 year old Cardhu own bottling released in 2005. The 28 year old bottling of The Singleton of Dufftown™ is the first limited cask strength edition of The Singleton in this series with just 3,840 individually numbered bottles. And bottled at 36 years old, the very rare Convalmore™ – from the Dufftown distillery that ceased production in 1985 – makes a welcome reappearance, carrying a few more years since its last much-acclaimed showing in the Special Releases back in 2005, this time in a smaller edition of only 3,000 bottles. For lovers of West Coast Single Malt Whiskies, Oban™ is represented by a 21 year old from rejuvenated American Oak and a second fill in ex-Bodega casks. Another complex maturation regime lies behind the 8th unpeated limited edition of Caol Ila™ which this year proudly carries the subtitle “Stitchell Reserve” in honour of the long-serving distillery manager Billy Stitchell, due to retire this year. “Refill American Oak, rejuvenated American Oak and ex-bodega European Oak have all played a role in creating this special Caol Ila,” explains Billy. “It has a firm, clean and fresh style, finishing with aromatic, spicy and drying notes.” Ultra-rare bottlings from another two long-closed distilleries complete the line-up in this year’s releases. A 34 year old Port Ellen™, the 13th and oldest release from the original distillers, comes in an edition of fewer than 3,000 individually numbered bottles, as does the equally desirable Highland East Coast 35 year old Brora™, from casks filled in 1977. Both bottlings are destined to excite collectors and connoisseurs. Brora 35 Nick Morgan, Diageo’s head of whisky outreach, commented: “Stocks of Brora and Port Ellen are inexorably diminishing. Each year’s limited-edition bottling releases one more fragment of whisky history that is unique, and can’t ever be replaced. This puts Port Ellen and Brora in a different category from most other very old single malts - mainly from operating distilleries - that are on the market, often at very high prices. On top of that, Port Ellen and Brora are not merely rare, old and in great demand – they are judged by most qualified commentators to be of outstanding quality, and this year’s edition will be no exception. “Indeed, many would accept that Port Ellen and Brora are among the world’s rarest Single Malt Whiskies still being released.” – ENDS – Details & Prices Please scroll down. Official Tasting Notes Diageo Special Releases 2013: Official Tasting Notes Brora™ 35 year old Refill American Oak and European Oak  Appearance: Yellow gold or polished brass. Lightly oily.  Nose: Initially clean, fresh and bracing; then warming, developing depth and richness. Creamy top notes of warm scented wax or vanilla-custard float above a herbal note (basil?) and a sharper, cereal base, all suffused with just a thread of smoke. The nutty, waxy notes sweeten into honeycomb and toasted coconut. The sea appears very late, as a fresh sea breeze. Adding a little water softens the impact and brings up the scented wax, with honey and lemongrass subduing the more subtle vanilla aromas.  Body: Light and softly coating.  Palate: Good texture and a surprising taste: much sweeter than you expect from the nose, and much more smoky, with a most attractive tongue-coating smoothness. A leafy hint of fresh picked strawberry introduces lemon zest and candied peel to set the tongue tingling. Then damp beach notes of wood, sand and sea air round off a beautifully balanced palate. With water added this is a very easy-drinking, rewarding dram: fuller in texture than when at full strength, it is also less sweet, becoming mouth drying, cleansing and softly smoky.  Finish: Coating, chewy and softly drying, with minty chocolate (after-dinner mints). Wood smoke lingers in the complex, fresh and spicy conclusion. Summary: A Brora classic: a mature, sweetly pleasing, tongue-coating, softly smoky malt that rewards deep study, evoking a tranquil beach scene rather than the drama of the high seas. Fans of Brora will not be disappointed by this superb, comforting, old-fashioned whisky. Caol Ila™ Unpeated Stitchell Reserve Refill American Oak, rejuvenated American Oak and ex-bodega European Oak  Appearance: Clear, olive gold. Light beading.  Nose: At full strength, immediately clean, aromatic and fresh: like inhaling Friar’s Balsam. After this first blast, more reticent; softly sweet, then a vivid freshness like that of crisp green fruit or lemon zest. Water raises a fruity, nutty honeyed sweetness and a faint note of treacle, with perhaps just a hazy hint of smoke.  Body: Light to medium. Oily, yet firm.  Palate: Drinks well straight; has an intense and in your face style, with a most appealing smooth, lightly oily texture. Firm, clean and fresh throughout. Intense and mouth-filling, with a great initial surge of sweet spiciness unaccompanied by the usual signature phenols of peated Caol Ila or indeed, much fruit. Becoming honey-nutty (nut brittle, with a dark edge of treacle bitterness) then finally, warming and drying. A good splash of water develops these flavours; it’s tongue-coating and appetisingly bitter-sweet now, leaving a spicy dryness as the tide of flavour ebbs.  Finish: Aromatic, spicy and drying; a balancing bitter edge embraces more of the soft nutty, biscuity notes, always maintaining that essential freshness overall. Summary: A smooth-talking, easy-drinking powerhouse. A powerfully, punchy, warming and sweet-spicy whisky with a mighty vitality and a smooth texture: the clean, fresh bitter-sweet nutty flavours give it a character all of its own and it’s a perfect testament to a remarkable whisky making dynasty. Caol Ila Stitchell Reserve Cardhu™ 21 year old Ex-bourbon American Oak  Appearance: Old gold; richer amber depths. Good beading.  Nose: Mild and at first quite shy. An early creamy, fruity note of vanilla and boiled sweets (bubble gum!) is faintly underscored by a rich, floral perfume with a cleansing edge. The creamy fruitiness persists as dried figs, rum-and-raisin ice cream, red apple skins and beeswax. Later a malty, biscuity base layer is revealed, as the cleansing edge becomes a sharply defined top layer. Overall, it’s a richer vanilla custard and fruit trifle creaminess that emerges. Water opens things out, raising both fruit and floral scents slightly, the boiled sweets now mandarin-flavoured.  Body: Fine and light.  Palate: At natural strength, smooth and savoury, with light acidity. Clean, refined, pleasantly drying and delicate. Then wonderfully aromatic with notes of black cherry; growing spicy, warming and elegant, with nutty, dark chocolate offset by buttery shortbread. It’s even softer with a drop of water. Now the taste starts cooler and sweeter; still savoury (mint on a fresh fruit salad) but also newly spicy across the tongue.  Finish: Long, aromatic and warming; smooth vanilla balanced by juicy tangerine and faint orange oil with spicy cedar, late silky-smooth dryness and a wisp of smoke. Summary: Clean and precisely structured; delicate and feminine on the nose, yet also robust, assured and unusually spicy. A beautifully balanced malt in which lusciously rich and indulgent vanilla notes are complemented by elegantly aromatic and refined tannins in the palate and finish. Cardhu 21 Convalmore™ 36 year old Refill European Oak  Appearance: Vibrant amber or faded polished mahogany. Medium beaded and very viscous.  Nose: Mild and profound, opening scented with eucalyptus oil and a trace of leather infusing a soft pillow of marshmallow and creamy toffee. Through this runs a rich vein of clean, tropical fruit sharpness, underscored by soft, crumbly, malty notes with a wisp of smoke. In time, the appetising fruit retreats into a rich, creamy shell. A little water brings up the soft toffee creaminess and a little mint, as the fruity complex becomes fresher.  Body: Lightly oily. Smooth.  Palate: Big and oily in texture; gently warming and extremely soft and comforting, like a whisky syrup! The taste is immediately sweet yet, with a note of aniseed, not cloying. Successive waves of pepper, salt and smoke follow, revealing a mouth-drying nature. With water, the texture remains big, thick and tongue-coating; the taste is sweeter, cooler and minty; slightly dusty, too, with hints of shortbread and scented smoke.  Finish: Superbly balanced, with an unusual aftertaste of perfumed smoke. There’s still sweetness but it’s in essence drying, with notable cedar-rich hints of cigar box. Summary: A subtle, big whisky with an astonishing rich velvet texture that wears its age lightly yet has developed a wonderful complexity. The young-seeming, sweet and succulent nose leads, via the smooth, comforting palate, to a drying conclusion of marked aromatic complexity, masterminded by long years of maturation. Convalmore 36 Lagavulin™ 12 year old Refill American Oak  Appearance: Extremely pale green-gold.  Nose: Soft, beguiling and cautious at first, when an appetising sharpness slowly crystallises into red berry fruit, then developing soft, savoury aromas and a delicious smoky sweetness. Savoury hints of charred baked potato skins cooked in a bonfire come first, then peat smoke and a box of spent matches come through. Later still, there are teasing, oily hints of sharp tropical fruit (lime pickle?). These aromas are altogether softer with water; less tense and underscored by youthful sweetness. There are smoky-fresh notes, then raisins and dried fruit, with distant wood smoke.  Body: Light. Oily.  Palate: Cooling at first, then salty, drying and dusty, with a good balance of sweetness and acidity. Beautifully cleansing, like a salad of tarragon and peppery rocket, then really appetizing, as if a char-grilled endive splashed with peppery olive oil. The charred notes then strengthen, into smoky wax. Sweeter with water and more accessible, as captivating notes of aniseed and fennel seeds give way to charred fruit scones and burnt jam tarts.  Finish: Simultaneously sweet and savoury, dominated by pungent smoke and appetising aniseed. With growing warmth, it becomes oily near the end. With water it is sweet and abrupt with subdued smoke; pleasantly drying and piney. Summary: An initially reserved member of the Lagavulin family, which grows much more at ease and expressive with water. As you might expect, this is a wonderfully appetising, invigorating and cleansing malt; soaring pine and pungent smoke invite you to pair it with lean, intense foods. Lagavulin 12 Lagavulin™ 37 year old Refill American and European Oak  Appearance: Rich amber with copper lights. Good beading.  Nose: Modestly low key, setting the tone for a maestro’s ‘less is more’ performance. Yet still the aroma could only be that of Lagavulin: rich and complex, an artist’s oils wreathed in scented smoke. The top notes are elusive: is that menthol or beef consommé? Further in, though, there’s honeyed toffee with hints of lime zest, and a cigar-box made of resin-rich sandalwood. With water the aroma is joyously sweet and lightly oily.  Body: Medium. Lightly coating.  Palate: At natural strength, the taste is sensational, rounded and comforting. There’s a nice cooling mouthfeel, while the sweet-smoky start of charcoal and ripe tropical fruits is followed by gathering wood smoke leading to a palate-cleansing, black tea dryness. Along the way waves of honey, pine, treacle tart and roasting chestnuts interact. It’s really delicate with water, which pulls back the curtain of smoke to reveal a sweetly coating, softly warming and gingery character that is honeyed yet still refreshing.  Finish: Initially sweet then drying, a little like a treacle tart made with burnt pastry, but it’s the lingering, all-pervading fragrant smoke that seeps into your very soul. Summary: This outstanding mature Lagavulin is a perfectly balanced, calm and confident malt that is utterly wonderful and understated even at cask strength and becomes joyously delicate with water. Smoky flavours can fade with age, but they are undimmed in this elegant yet robust whisky. Lagavulin 37 Oban 21 Oban™ 21 year old Rejuvenated American Oak and second fill ex-bodega casks  Appearance: Polished beech-wood; richer and deeper in sunlight. Moderate beading.  Nose: Full, accessible and oily, with rich caramel notes embracing sweet, ripe apples set in burnt pastry yet also with fresh and cleansing maritime notes; fragrant dried seaweed, hot sand dunes. Then darker, linseed-oil-rich aromas like those found at a furniture restorer’s lead to a briefly salty, then spicy, aromatic conclusion. It’s more complex and sweetly rounded with water, with lighter caramel, more ripe autumn fruit, and a trace of smoke, delivering a pleasurable, moreish malt.  Body: Rich.  Palate: Warming overall, the dense, oily texture beautifully coating and liqueur-like. The taste is first sweet, with fruity vanilla toffee, then salty, with pistachio shells, and burnt pastry. Becomes sweeter and less salty: less the old sea-dog! Mouth-cleansing, cool and fresh, and drying. Water emphasises the cooling, sweet and salty notes; rich dark chocolate and minty smoke.  Finish: Lengthy and drying, starting sweet and savoury with raspberry juice, dark smooth chocolate, ginger and clove, yet with an attractive salty, oily aftertaste, all brine and smooth olive oil. Summary: Oban, and then some. A beautifully paced, confident and assured malt; complex and contradictory, yet always rewarding. Rich and sweet then briny and spicy, at once conveying the freshness of walks along the coast and through apple orchards early on a crisp, autumn morning. Port Ellen 34 Port Ellen™ 34 year old Refill American Oak and refill European Oak  Appearance: A clear amber, like antique gold in sunlight. Dense beading, suggesting rich texture.  Nose: Cautious and clean at first, with hints of dark toffee wrapped in wood smoke, then cooling oil of eucalyptus and a trace of bruised apple fruit. The wood smoke parts to reveal a savoury, meaty scent, then sweet honey, toasted cereals and a whole artist’s studio of oils. With water, it starts smoky (like vegetables on a barbecue) the underlying oiliness now punctuated by hints of lime.  Body: Light, oily, smooth.  Palate: Stunning. Caution is thrown to the winds as sweet and intense smoke races across the palate chased by fresh lemons, lemon zest and butter. This rich, fruity smoky-sweetness becomes tongue-coating, smooth dark chocolate enveloped in exquisite wood smoke. It drinks very well straight and when the attack slows, there’s yet more honey, lemon and a sprinkling of sea salt. If water is added it is smooth, lightly oily, much sweeter now and more accessible: still some salt, with a new spicy tingle.  Finish: Long, coating, intense and sustained, all pervading scented smoke, hints of mint and bergamot, then finally dense and savoury, with an aftertaste suggesting cloves. Summary: A phenomenal, mighty and utterly compelling Port Ellen with astonishing complexity and huge character. The refined nose gives no clue to the vivid, immediate onrush of astonishing flavours; a fine interplay of clean citrus, alluring smoke and salt with honeyed sweetness. The Singleton of Dufftown™ 28 year old Refill American Oak  Appearance: Deep antique gold. Good beading  Nose: Grand and mild; compact yet detailed, with ripe apple and pear fruit or perhaps beeswax and heather pollen, and scents of moorland herbs. Quite autumnal, with faint smoke and a savoury cereal note, and like an old dusty library carrying scents of wax and worn leather. Later, orange oil underscores the complex floral notes. In time some vanilla develops, becoming intense buttercream. Water lightens it considerably and brings out the malty, cereal character (like being in a grain loft), with leafy strawberries, more waxiness and the merest trace of smoke.  Body: Oily, dense.  Palate: At natural strength, this malt has a big, oily feel; sweet and reminiscent of a wholewheat breakfast cereal coated with honey. The initial effect is warming, with an instantly appetising astringency. Below this lie minty and faintly smoky notes and rich chewy liquorice with a digestive biscuit sweetness. It’s all sweeter and less oily with water; losing that piercing aromatic dryness and with the cereal note dimmed, it’s altogether gentler and more approachable.  Finish: Invigorating, warming and gloriously astringent at the end, with notes of pine and cedar to leave the palate tingling over a lingering last wisp of smoke. Summary: A wonderfully appetising, full flavoured and mature malt, made subtle by long ageing, yet retaining its malty/nutty distillery character. Beautifully structured and paced, it is at once fresh and alive on the palate, yet also evocative of the past; complex and exciting, intricate and intriguing. The Singleton of Dufftown 28 Talisker™ 27 year old Refill American Oak  Appearance: Rich, clear amber with notes of antique gold.  Nose: Absolutely classic Talisker. First soft and sweet, with shortcrust pastry and rich warm dark chocolate. Next, after the faintest mention of raspberry juice, comes waft upon waft of warming, homely smoke. Through this rises the buttery, oaty aroma of home-made chocolate chip cookies, offset by sharp mixed-berry jam and ripe red apples. There are late top notes of beeswax and polish on new shoes fresh from the box. Water makes it all sweetly smoky and liberates mysterious volcanic fumes.  Body: Medium. Oily.  Palate: Cool, salty and sweet; then warming and spicy, with notes of ginger and clove. Growing rich and malty, with helpings of plum pudding and fruitcake. Then resin-rich, dense, fragrant pine-wood smoke. Soft, smooth and bitter-sweet with water, with gently pervasive smoke.  Finish: Long and silky-smooth, with more of that drying, unctuous and soft dark chocolate, and chewy, with ripe plums. Late warmth, cigar-box cedar and coal smoke. Summary: A supreme Talisker; wonderfully classic in style and as sophisticated as its peers but with an extra ‘chilled’ self-assurance and even an edge of darkness. A malt that lives life to the full and doesn’t take itself too seriously: it’s also ever-so-slightly edgy, with suggestions of a volcanic heritage. Talisker 1985

Thursday, July 18, 2013

INDUSTRY HONOURS BARRY CROCKETT

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INDUSTRY HONOURS BARRY CROCKETT
ON A NIGHT OF SUCCESS FOR IRISH DISTILLERS
JULY 2013
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Barry Crockett, former Master Distiller at Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, was announced as the winner of the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2013 Outstanding Achievement award at a ceremonial dinner which took place in London this week (16th July 2013).
The award paid tribute to Barry Crockett’s significant contribution to the growth of the Irish Whiskey category, following an illustrious career spanning over 47 years, during which time Barry has witnessed the phenomenal worldwide success of Jameson and overseen the creation of the revered Single Pot Still Whiskeys of Midleton range.
Barry Crockett commented “I am deeply honoured to have received this Outstanding Achievement award. The success of Irish whiskey around the world in recent years has given me a great deal of pleasure and I am particularly proud to have been able to contribute to its development. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Midleton distillery and I would like to thank everyone at Irish Distillers who has supported me over the last 47 years.
Anna Malmhake, CEO and chairman of Irish Distillers, comments: “I can’t think of anyone more deserving than Barry Crockett to receive this award for Outstanding Achievement. Barry has played such an important part in Irish Distillers’ success and his contribution to the Irish whiskey category is unrivalled. Barry will be missed around the distillery by us all but with Brian Nation now taking over after years of mentoring from Barry, we are confident that our Irish Whiskeys will continue to achieve great acclaim from the industry in the years to come and will be a true legacy to Barry and his ancestors.
Irish Distillers had further reason to celebrate after scooping a total of nine gold awards in the ISC, with three expressions – Jameson Gold Reserve, Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy and Midleton Very Rare all awarded Best in Class status, highlighting the outstanding quality of the company’s Irish Whiskey range.
Irish Distillers’ success at the ISC follows an excellent gold medal haul for Jameson in this year’s Beverage Tasting Institute, with Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve rewarded with a Platinum medal, while Jameson Gold Reserve and Jameson Select Reserve both received gold medals.
 
FULL RESULTS
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International Spirits Challenge
Gold – Best in Class
Jameson Gold Reserve  
Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy
Midleton Very Rare
Gold
Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve
Redbreast 12 YO
Redbreast 15 YO
Yellow Spot
Powers John's Lane Release
Midleton Single Cask Release (1991 48750)           
Beverage Testing Institute
Platinum
Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve
Gold
Jameson Gold Reserve
Jameson Select Reserve Black Barrel
 
NOTES TO EDITORS
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About Irish DistillersIrish Distillers Group was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between Irish whiskey distillers, John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and the Cork Distillery Company. In an attempt to reverse the decline in Irish whiskey sales, the board of directors decided to close the existing distilleries in Cork and Dublin, and to consolidate production at a new purpose-built facility.

A site alongside the existing distillery in Midleton, Co. Cork was chosen as the location for the new distillery, as there was no room for expansion in Dublin. Both the Old Jameson Distillery and the Old Midleton Distillery currently operate as visitor centres attracting over 330,000 visitors annually. Following an early unsolicited takeover offer and one of the most protracted battles in Irish corporate history made by GrandMet, Allied-Lyons and Guinness, Irish Distillers was taken over by Pernod Ricard in June 1988 with the support of the management and employees.

Irish whiskey brands within the Irish Distillers’ portfolio include Jameson, Paddy and Powers, with Single Pot Still brands, Green Spot, Yellow Spot, Redbreast and the much-revered Midleton, which includes prestigious expressions such Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy and Midleton Very Rare, completing the line-up.
About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated sales of € 8,215 million in 2011/12. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin & Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: 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, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate (formerly Montana), Campo Viejo and Graffigna wines.
Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of nearly 18 800 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 75 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics.
 
PHOTOS
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Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, presents former Master Distiller, Barry Crockett, with the Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, presents former Master Distiller, Barry Crockett, with the Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
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Ian Wisniewski, ISC Chairman for Vodka and White Spirits, Justin Smith, Publisher of Drinks International, former Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, Barry Crockett and Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, celebrate Barry Crockett’s Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
Ian Wisniewski, ISC Chairman for Vodka and White Spirits, Justin Smith, Publisher of Drinks International, former Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, Barry Crockett and Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, celebrate Barry Crockett’s Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
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ISC Gold ISC Gold Best in Class
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N.B. Please note that BTI medals are not free of charge, please contact the BTI to purchase medal artwork
 
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
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Visit: http://www.irishdistillers.ie/
 
CONTACT
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Alexandra Gerolami                          
Richmond Towers Communications
Tel: 020 7388 7421
Email: alexandra@rt-com.com
Paula Reynolds
International Marketing Communications Manager
Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard
Email: Paula.Reynolds@pernod-ricard.com
 
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INDUSTRY HONOURS BARRY CROCKETT
ON A NIGHT OF SUCCESS FOR IRISH DISTILLERS
JULY 2013
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Barry Crockett, former Master Distiller at Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard, was announced as the winner of the International Spirits Challenge (ISC) 2013 Outstanding Achievement award at a ceremonial dinner which took place in London this week (16th July 2013).
The award paid tribute to Barry Crockett’s significant contribution to the growth of the Irish Whiskey category, following an illustrious career spanning over 47 years, during which time Barry has witnessed the phenomenal worldwide success of Jameson and overseen the creation of the revered Single Pot Still Whiskeys of Midleton range.
Barry Crockett commented “I am deeply honoured to have received this Outstanding Achievement award. The success of Irish whiskey around the world in recent years has given me a great deal of pleasure and I am particularly proud to have been able to contribute to its development. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Midleton distillery and I would like to thank everyone at Irish Distillers who has supported me over the last 47 years.
Anna Malmhake, CEO and chairman of Irish Distillers, comments: “I can’t think of anyone more deserving than Barry Crockett to receive this award for Outstanding Achievement. Barry has played such an important part in Irish Distillers’ success and his contribution to the Irish whiskey category is unrivalled. Barry will be missed around the distillery by us all but with Brian Nation now taking over after years of mentoring from Barry, we are confident that our Irish Whiskeys will continue to achieve great acclaim from the industry in the years to come and will be a true legacy to Barry and his ancestors.
Irish Distillers had further reason to celebrate after scooping a total of nine gold awards in the ISC, with three expressions – Jameson Gold Reserve, Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy and Midleton Very Rare all awarded Best in Class status, highlighting the outstanding quality of the company’s Irish Whiskey range.
Irish Distillers’ success at the ISC follows an excellent gold medal haul for Jameson in this year’s Beverage Tasting Institute, with Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve rewarded with a Platinum medal, while Jameson Gold Reserve and Jameson Select Reserve both received gold medals.
 
FULL RESULTS
spacers
International Spirits Challenge
Gold – Best in Class
Jameson Gold Reserve  
Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy
Midleton Very Rare
Gold
Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve
Redbreast 12 YO
Redbreast 15 YO
Yellow Spot
Powers John's Lane Release
Midleton Single Cask Release (1991 48750)           
Beverage Testing Institute
Platinum
Jameson Rarest Vintage Reserve
Gold
Jameson Gold Reserve
Jameson Select Reserve Black Barrel
 
NOTES TO EDITORS
spacers
About Irish DistillersIrish Distillers Group was formed in 1966, when a merger took place between Irish whiskey distillers, John Power & Son, John Jameson & Son and the Cork Distillery Company. In an attempt to reverse the decline in Irish whiskey sales, the board of directors decided to close the existing distilleries in Cork and Dublin, and to consolidate production at a new purpose-built facility.

A site alongside the existing distillery in Midleton, Co. Cork was chosen as the location for the new distillery, as there was no room for expansion in Dublin. Both the Old Jameson Distillery and the Old Midleton Distillery currently operate as visitor centres attracting over 330,000 visitors annually. Following an early unsolicited takeover offer and one of the most protracted battles in Irish corporate history made by GrandMet, Allied-Lyons and Guinness, Irish Distillers was taken over by Pernod Ricard in June 1988 with the support of the management and employees.

Irish whiskey brands within the Irish Distillers’ portfolio include Jameson, Paddy and Powers, with Single Pot Still brands, Green Spot, Yellow Spot, Redbreast and the much-revered Midleton, which includes prestigious expressions such Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy and Midleton Very Rare, completing the line-up.
About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated sales of € 8,215 million in 2011/12. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin & Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: 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, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate (formerly Montana), Campo Viejo and Graffigna wines.
Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of nearly 18 800 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 75 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics.
 
PHOTOS
spacers
 
Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, presents former Master Distiller, Barry Crockett, with the Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, presents former Master Distiller, Barry Crockett, with the Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
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Ian Wisniewski, ISC Chairman for Vodka and White Spirits, Justin Smith, Publisher of Drinks International, former Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, Barry Crockett and Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, celebrate Barry Crockett’s Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
Ian Wisniewski, ISC Chairman for Vodka and White Spirits, Justin Smith, Publisher of Drinks International, former Master Distiller at Midleton Distillery, Barry Crockett and Peter Morehead, Production Director at Irish Distillers, celebrate Barry Crockett’s Lifetime Contribution Award at the International Spirit Challenge Dinner in London on 16th July.
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ISC Gold ISC Gold Best in Class
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N.B. Please note that BTI medals are not free of charge, please contact the BTI to purchase medal artwork
 
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
spacers
Visit: http://www.irishdistillers.ie/
 
CONTACT
spacers
Alexandra Gerolami                          
Richmond Towers Communications
Tel: 020 7388 7421
Email: alexandra@rt-com.com
Paula Reynolds
International Marketing Communications Manager
Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard
Email: Paula.Reynolds@pernod-ricard.com
 
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Saturday, July 6, 2013

WHISKY & MORE FESTIVAL, Lausanne

WHISKY & MORE FESTIVAL

http://www.whisky-time.ch/Nlogowt.GIF
Bonjour à tous,
Nous avons le plaisir d'organiser avec nos partenaires, notre prochain salon des whiskies et spiritueux, à Lausanne :
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Vendredi 4 et samedi 5 octobre 2013

à EXPO BEAULIEU LAUSANNE
Fr. 22.- / personne
+ paiement au verre pour chaque whisky dégusté
(selon leur qualité ou rareté) dès Fr. 2.-

Achetez dès maintenant vos billets en ligne

1er rendez-vous annuel, réservé aux amateurs débutants ou éclairés de ce merveilleux breuvage qu'est le whisky, ainsi que ceux qui souhaitent découvrir d'autres spiritueux présents durant ce salon. Toutefois, nous attirons votre attention sur le fait que le produit-phare de ce salon reste le whisky.
Des masterclasses (conférences/dégustations) sont organisées dans le cadre du salon, nous vous recommandons d'acheter vos billets dès maintenant, places limitées.
Dès la mi-août, une information "produit" ou "distillerie" par semaine sur notre page Facebook... http://www.whisky-time.ch/FB-f.png rejoignez-nous.
Nous nous réjouissons de vous retrouver et, dans cette attente, nous vous adressons nos salutations les meilleures ainsi qu'un très bel été.
Pour toutes questions :
WHISKY AND MORE
info@whiskyandmore.ch

http://www.whiskyandmore.ch
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Anne-Marie Graticcia
Whisky Time - Rue de l'Horloge 6
1095 Lutry / VD (Suisse)
+41 21 791 70 02 - +41 21 791 64 65

www.whisky-time.ch

Friday, April 19, 2013

TALISKER INTRODUCES NEW PORT-FINISHED SINGLE MALT WHISKY

Following the successful launch of TALISKER STORM™ in March, the famous Single Malt Scotch Whisky from the Isle of Skye is now acquiring another new family member, this time enriched by double maturation in port cask wood.

It has been named TALISKER PORT RUIGHE™, after the principal town and port on the Isle of Skye, and as a tribute to the great Scottish trading-houses such as the Cockburns, Grahams and Symingtons who braved the high seas and were instrumental in the creation and global growth of the port wine trade.
TALISKER PORT RUIGHE combines the powerful smoky maritime character of Talisker with succulent sweet notes of rich berry fruits for a superb contrasting taste experience. (Full tasting notes)

Like the recently released Talisker Storm, TALISKER PORT RUIGHE is a permanent addition to the current core range of Talisker single malt whiskies. It is being introduced to offer Talisker consumers a further intriguing flavour dimension of this celebrated and distinctive island single malt whisky.

It will be available from mid-April 2013 in whisky specialist retailers in Western European markets. Talisker Port Ruighe will have a Recommended Retail Price at a premium of 20/25% to the price of Talisker 10 year old. It is bottled at the traditional Talisker strength of 45.8% ABV, without an age statement.

Master Blender Maureen Robinson explained:
“Talisker Port Ruighe is a combination of spirit that has been matured in American Oak and European Oak refill casks in the traditional manner along with spirit that has been filled into specially conditioned deeply charred casks.  The spirit is then finished in casks that have previously held Port Wine which  endows it with spicy fruit notes. These bond elegantly with that clean, fresh smokiness that signals its essential Talisker character.”

Talisker Distiller Manager Mark Lochhead added:
“Talisker lovers are getting spoiled this spring! After Talisker Storm, which has been very well received, we’re now offering a contrasting taste experience that will intrigue whisky drinkers who enjoy a hint of aromatic fruit and richness with their Talisker smoke. It’s still very much a true Talisker, but from a different, memorable angle.”

Talisker Port Ruighe
Talisker Port Ruighe

Distell buys top Scotch whisky producer, Burn Stewart Distillers

Distell buys top Scotch whisky producer ...
Distell buys top Scotch whisky producer, Burn Stewart Distillers
The Distell Group, Africa's leading spirits, wines and ready-to-drinks business has acquired top-performing producer of Scotch whiskies, Burn Stewart Distillers Limited, for just over R2,2 billion (£160 million) from the Scottish based CL World Brands Limited and Trinidad and Tobago based Angostura Limited, owners of Hine Cognac and Angostura Bitters respectively  amongst other global brands.
The strategic purchase of the fully integrated producer of both Blended and Single Malt Whiskies will allow Distell to capitalise on the continuing global growth in Whisky consumption and give it access to scarce blended and single malt stocks from prime whisky-producing regions in Scotland, while also enhancing its global footprint. 
The deal follows an equal partner venture established in 2007 between Distell and Burn Stewart in which the two parties co-owned and marketed three Scotch Whiskies – Bunnahabhain, Black Bottle and Scottish Leader, in sub-Saharan Africa.
The agreement between Distell, CL World Brands Limited and Angostura Limited, announced today (15 April, 2013) involves the purchase of 100% of the equity in Burn Stewart whose portfolio includes: three single malt whisky distilleries; a blending and maturation facility; a bottling hall; and a dry and finished goods storage site, as well as its in-house marketing and distribution functions. All Scotch Whisky stocks currently in maturation also form part of the transaction.
Burn Stewart is based in East Kilbride, near Glasgow, Scotland. The company employs close to 270 staff.
It also operates a sales and marketing branch in Taiwan, the world's fourth biggest Scotch Whisky market by volume; and it holds a majority stake in a spirits distribution arm in the USA.
The biggest brand in its portfolio is Scottish Leader, the pre-eminent Blended Scotch Whisky in its category in Taiwan.
Others are the blended whisky Black Bottle as well as the single malts Bunnahabhain, Deanston, Tobermory and Ledaig. Some have long-established histories dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
All are recognised for quality excellence on leading competitive platforms. They are sold in over 60 countries and have been making impressive inroads into developing markets.
Commenting on the deal, Distell Group MD Jan Scannell said: “Our acquisition of Burn Stewart is a very significant development for Distell from a strategic perspective but also given the rich and proud history and heritage of the brands involved. This gives us an outstanding foundation from which to build, while cherishing their individual traditions.
"Bunnahabhain, the Burn Stewart Distillers’ flagship single malt, is made on Islay, considered one of the most prestigious whisky locations by connoisseurs. There are only eight distilleries on the Island, so we are extremely fortunate to acquire this very highly-ranked brand.
“Tobermory is the only distillery on the Isle of Mull, one of the most popular tourist spots in Scotland, while the home of Scottish Leader is the Deanston Distillery situated in the Scottish Highlands in Doune near Stirling, close to both Edinburgh and Glasgow, and another important destination for whisky enthusiasts."
Scannell confirmed that Scottish Leader, so well established in Taiwan, would give Distell a springboard into a country with a growing appetite for other speciality drinks the company offers.
The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) data shows that the global whisky market has been one of the fastest-growing drinks segments and after vodka, is the world's biggest spirit category by volume. 
The most recent SWA figures show that for the ten years from 2002 to 2012, sales values rose by 87% to £4,3 billion (R59,9 billion).
Consumption has risen across both developed and emerging markets, notably the UK, the US, as well as Latin America, Eastern Europe, many parts of Asia and in key African markets.
Scannell added: "We have acquired a business with a portfolio of strong brands, backed by a sound production and marketing team. Their expertise is integral to the ongoing success of Burn Stewart.”
Marlon Holder, MD of CL Financial Limited, parent of CL World Brands Limited, said he was confident that Distell, a long-established company dating back to 1925 and with a reputation for successful brand building, would take Burn Stewart to the next level of its international development.
Burn Stewart MD, Fraser Thornton, said: “The close working relationship with Distell over the fourteen years has amply demonstrated the South African group's capacity, experience and expertise to strengthen and grow the company.
"We have developed solid synergies with a strong cultural fit between our two entities and are enthused by Distell's plans to recapitalise and advance the business."
The purchase marks the second time in recent years that Distell has invested in a major global spirits acquisition.
In 2009 the company acquired well-known heritage cognac brand Bisquit from Pernod Ricard.
In the four years since then, it has re-established the brand as a major cognac player in global markets, building volumes by double digits across a range of developing markets.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

GOLD RUSH FOR CHIVAS BROTHERS AS 2013 AWARDS SEASON STARTS IN STYLE




Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, has started the awards season in style, scooping an impressive total of 25 top accolades at two of the world’s most prestigious spirits competitions, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
The awards highlight the outstanding quality of the Chivas Brothers’ range, with seven brands including Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet and Beefeater Gin all receiving some of the highest accolades awarded by the judges, which included leading industry experts F. Paul Pacult and Steve Beal.
Royal Salute, the world’s leading luxury Scotch whisky, picked up two double gold medals for its 21 Year Old and 38 Year Old Stone of Destiny expressions at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Both expressions were shortlisted for the Chairman’s Trophy in the blended Scotch whisky category at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, which the 21 Year Old was eventually awarded along with an Ultimate Recommendation.
Plymouth Gin and Beefeater Gin won double gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, with Beefeater going on to win the prestigious Best Gin award. Plymouth Gin and Plymouth Sloe Gin received the Ultimate Recommendation from the judges.
Chivas 18 and Chivas 25 won double gold medals in the San Francisco World Spirit Competition, which represents the third double gold in a row for the pinnacle of the Chivas range, and were both shortlisted for the blended Scotch whisky Chairman’s Trophy in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
There was further success for Chivas Brothers with its malts portfolio as The Glenlivet 18 Year Old triumphed at both competitions; the USC judges endorsed the expression with its Ultimate Recommendation and shortlisted it for the single malt whisky Chairman’s Trophy, while it received a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The result marks the 10th time in 11 years that the expression has won the double gold award and reinforces its exceptional quality and consistency,
Aberlour 18 Year Old was given the fifth Ultimate Recommendation and was also shortlisted for the Chairman’s Trophy for single malt whisky at the USC, while Something Special, an expression from Chivas Brothers’ range of standard, blended whiskies won the eighth double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

FULL RESULTS

San Francisco World Spirit Competition
Double Gold
Beefeater London Dry Gin (Best Gin)
Chivas 18
Chivas 25
Plymouth Gin
Royal Salute 21 Year Old
Royal Salute 38 Year Old Stone of Destiny
Something Special
The Glenlivet 18 Year Old
GoldAberlour 12 Year Old Non Chill-Filtered
Aberlour 16 Year Old Double Cask Matured
Aberlour 18 Year Old
Plymouth Navy Strength Gin
The Glenlivet 12 Year Old
The Glenlivet 15 Year Old French Oak Reserve
The Glenlivet 21 Year Old
Ultimate Recommendation [Shortlisted for Trophy]
Aberlour 18 Year Old - 95 points [Single Malt Scotch]
The Glenlivet 18 Year Old (95 points) [Single Malt Scotch]
Plymouth Gin (95 points) [Gin]
Plymouth Sloe Gin (95 points) [Gin]
Highly Recommended – [Shortlisted for Trophy]
Beefeater London Dry (94 points) [Gin]
Plymouth Navy Strength Gin (94 points) [Gin]
Royal Salute 38 Year Old Stone of Destiny (94 points)
[Blended Scotch]
Chivas 18 (92 points) [Blended Scotch]
Chivas 25 (92 points) [Blended Scotch]

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CONTACT

For latest news, press releases and images, please visit our newsroom: http://www.chivasbrothers.com/newsroom/news-home.aspx
For medal artwork enquiries or any further information please contact:
Alexandra Gerolami
Richmond Towers
02073887421
alexandra@rt-com.com
Alicia Eason
Chivas Brothers
Alicia.eason@pernod-ricard.com

ABOUT CHIVAS BROTHERS

Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits.  Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth Gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport. In July 2010, Chivas Brothers launched The Age Matters campaign to help consumers understand the importance of Scotch whisky age statements.