Lochlea Distillery launched their first peated whisky

The team at Lochlea Distillery are delighted to reveal their fourth limited seasonal release, Lochlea ‘Ploughing Edition’. It concludes the ‘First Crop’ of annual small batch bottlings showcasing their spirit throughout the farming seasons. This year, the ‘Second Crop’ limited edition series will be released each season, highlighting the progression of Lochlea’s single malt whiskies.

It is the first ever peated expression from Lochlea, matured in a combination of exIslay barrels and peated quarter casks, and the first smoky whisky created by Campbell since leaving Laphroaig. A comforting dram for the winter months, the resulting flavours include boiled sweets, cooked apple and brazil nuts, intertwined with a haze of lingering peat.

John Campbell, Lochlea Production Director and Master Blender, said:

“Lochlea “Ploughing Edition” is our first peated release and showcases all the expected Lochlea flavours with a wee touch of Islay. We have matured our unpeated single malt in ex-Islay peated barrels and this delivers a lightly peated version of Lochlea that I am sure you will enjoy.”

For more information, please visit www.lochleadistillery.com

Speyside Whisky Festival returns

Internationally renowned Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has announced its return in spring 2023.

Taking place from 26th April to 1st May, this annual celebration of Scotland’s national drink has become one of the largest events of its kind anywhere in the world, bringing thousands of visitors to Speyside each year since its creation in 1999.

A range of events will take place throughout the scenic region of Speyside – the biggest whisky-producing region in Scotland – located in the Moray area in the North-East of the country.

George McNeil, Chairman of The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, said: “Whether you’re a dram expert or just entering the world of whisky for the first time, we will be delighted to welcome you to Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival in spring.

“Our comprehensive programme of events brings the journey of Scottish whisky to life for visitors, creating truly world-class and unforgettable experiences set among spectacular scenery.”

Tickets for the festival’s top events are now available - for more information, please visit www.spiritofspeyside.com

Benromach launches limited edition single malt

Benromach Distillery has launched a limited edition single cask bottling, selected and bottled in partnership with a specially invited group of bartenders from renowned venues in London.

The ‘London Bartenders Edition’, developed in collaboration with Milroy’s of Soho, has been created following a series of industry events involving bartenders from across the city. To celebrate the partnership, Benromach will donate over £2000 to Hospitality Action to support the industry after a particularly challenging two years.

Bottled exclusively as ‘London Bartenders Edition’, the whisky exudes aromas of rich, stewed fruit with citrus zest and toasted hazelnut, followed by a touch of soft smoke.

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach, said: “This cask strength Benromach whisky has been specifically selected by London bartenders and will be sold exclusively through the city’s top bars and restaurants.

“It’s smoky, zesty and bold. It will be interesting to see how other bartenders interpret the dram and how they plan on serving it – whether that’s neat, over ice or in a creative cocktail.”

For more information, please visit: www.benromach.com