A Wee DRAM #7

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 1

WINTER 2012

Potty about whisky The Pot Still’s Frank Murphy reveals all.

Global Experts A focus on our top global whisky ambassadors with Struan Ralph as our cover boy.

Whisky Galore Our guide to some of Scotland’s best whisky bars.

DRAM A Wee

ISSUE 7

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 2

THE

BEN NEVIS

Voted dog fr most i bar of endly th year e

Supporting Traditional Music and the Water of Life Live sessions on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 9pm 1147 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8TB 0141 576 5204 www.thebennevis.co.uk

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 3

WELCOME elcome to the Winter edition of the Wee DRAM - the magazine that aims to take the mystique out of whisky.

This issue we have an interview with one of the young guns that is helping to put whisky back on the agenda for the younger generation - Frank Murphy. He doesn't just talk the talk, but walks the walk too, having taken over The Pot Still pub in Hope Street, Glasgow last year. See what he has to say on pages and .

Jason Caddy checks out some of the best

W

whisky bars around, and there's a map which highlights some great distilleries to visit.

Thinking about a gift for someone special check out our gifting section.

The Oran Mor Whisky Speed Tasting events also took place in October and we have some great pictures of the people who took part. See page 24. sláinte Susan Young Editor

CONTENTS 4

NEWS The latest from the world of whisky.

12 GLOBAL EXPERTS The guys promoting whisky worldwide.

14 WHISKY DISTILLERY MAP Six places to visit this winter.

16 POTTY ABOUT WHISKY A Q&A with Frank Murphy of the Pot Still.

19 COCKTAILS Winter cocktails.

21 WHAT’S ON A host of whisky flavoured events to whet your appetite.

22 WHISKY GALORE A few of Scotland’s best whisky bars

24 WHISKY SPEED TASTING FESTIVAL A collection of pictures from our recent events.

For the Love of... whisky speed tasting • Editor Susan Young • Assistant Editor Jason Caddy • Sales Manager Lynn Kelly • Sales Executive Martin Cassidy • Admin Cheryl Cooke • Dogs…Tootsie and Lucy

27 GIFTS Ideal present ideas.

30 TASTING NOTES

Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, Glasgow G3 8ND. Telephone: 0141 221 6965 Email: dram@mail.com A Wee DRAM is published by Media World Ltd. The publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors/omissions. Any transparencies or artwork will be accepted at owner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made to the publisher. Articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. © Media World Limited 2012 ISSN No 1470-2428.

DRAM

3

NEWS GLENMORANGIE CASTS

Arran Distillers Re-launch Tribute Spirit – Robert Burns Single Malt Robert Burns is perhaps Scotland’s most famous son, and he was known to enjoy a wee dram, so it’s only fitting that Isle of Arran Distillers has relaunched its malt named in his honour.

The distiller unveiled its Robert Burns Single Malt, a multi-vintage edition of The Arran Malt, in September.

Made of the finest exBourbon and ex-Sherry casks, with no artificial

colouring added, the spirit has a rich and smooth flavour. Arran’s Master Distiller, James MacTaggart, says, “This malt has been skilfully created by combining different ages to produce a beautifully rounded whisky. The sweet, fruity notes and the depth of flavour mean that this malt can be happily enjoyed neat, on the rocks or as part of a classic whisky cocktail.”

It costs £28.99, and can be purchased online at www.arranwhisky.com.

4

A new n new premium premium blended blended Scotch Whisky - Lord Elcho Wemyss Malts has launched its first premium blended Scotch in the form of a 15 year old called Lord Elcho. The whisky is named after Wemyss Malts founder's 18th century ancestor who was a loyal supporter to Bonnie Prince Charlie and led his lifeguards at the Battle of Culloden during the ill-fated Jacobite uprising in 1745.

For his part in the uprising, Elcho was stripped of his title and lands and exiled to France, never

returning to his native Scotland.

Lord Elcho's character is now recreated in this new premium blended Scotch whisky. Lord Elcho blended Scotch whisky is rich, smooth and aged to perfection. It has been crafted from a carefully chosen selection of the finest malt and grain whiskies (each aged a minimum of 15 years) with an emphasis on malt whisky matured in sherry casks.

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAIL The team behind Jim Beam have created a new premium whisky called Devil’s Cut, playing on the notion of the ‘angel’s share’, namely the liquid lost to evaporation during ageing.

Jim Beam's distillers have developed a technique to extract the bourbon or ‘devil’s cut’ trapped in the barrel during this process.

The liquid, which takes on the natural elements of the wood, is added to six year old Jim Beam bourbon and bottled at 45% ABV, resulting in a deep bold bourbon, both in taste and colour.

DRAM

wee dram correction.indd 1

19/10/2012 10:28

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 5

NEWS S

LIGHT ON THE DARK AGES People have claimed to see the face of Jesus in a baked potato or a slice of burnt toast, but thanks to a new book that’s been commissioned by the Glenmorangie company, they can now see a portrayal of what is believed to be the real thing.

Early Medieval Scotland: Individuals, Communities and Ideas illustrates the results of new research that suggests The Hilton of Cadboll Stone contains a mysterious figure, believed to be one of Scotland’s earliest surviving depictions of Jesus.

The Stone, which dates back to the Pictish period, was originally discovered near the Glenmorangie distillery and went on to become the inspiration for the company logo.

National Museums Scotland has revealed Early Medieval Scotland was part of a sophisticated intellectual network with craftsmen

mastering complex technologies to create outstanding works of decorative art, some of which have been featured in the book.

Paul Skipworth, President and Managing Director of The Glenmorangie Company says, “For The Glenmorangie Company the publication of this beautifully written and illustrated book represents a significant milestone in our six year partnership with National Museums Scotland. It is the result of two Scottish iconic institutions pooling their expertise to further our understanding of Scotland’s past and enrich its culture.

“The Hilton of Cadboll Stone, originally found near Glenmorangie’s distillery, is a national treasure from this period and the inspiration for our company logo which proudly adorns our whisky bottles around the world.”

Whisky weekend A Springbank Whisky Weekend will take place on 27th and 28th October.

During the weekend unique tastings with whisky drawn straight from the cask at the legendary Springbank’s No 3 Dunnage warehouse will take place, and there will also be visits to the distillery and to the Glen Scotia and Glengyle distilleries too. Hotels in the Campbeltown area will also be hosting special whisky dinners.

The science of whisky If you’ve been tasked with organising a team building event or staff away day, why not investigate Science of Whisky at the Glasgow Science Centre? This new corporate events programme celebrates our national drink in a fun way. Guests will be able to enjoy interactive whisky stalls and informal whisky sessions ranging from delicate light and floral Highland malts with instant appeal to those first trying whisky, through to robust and passionate West Coast malts.

During dinner, guests will also be able to learn

about whisky from a unique perspective, as well as tasting and exploring a few drams for themselves.

Judy Rae, Corporate Events Manager says, “Whisky is one of Scotland's most iconic exports and one of the country's most productive industries and rightly deserves to be celebrated. Our ‘Science of Whisky’ dinner events offers guests the chance to learn about ‘the water of life’ from a unique perspective as well as tasting and exploring the joys of a dram for themselves.”

DRAM

5

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 6

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 7

NEWS

Superstition is the way The Isle of Jura Distillery’s Superstition has walked away with The Whisky Shop’s 2012 Whisky of the Year award Now in its sixth year, the awards are based on a combination of customer choice, sales, and recommendations from store managers.

David Brown, Sales Director at owners Whyte & Mackay, says, "Jura Superstition has long been recognised for its unique character which comes from the very special Island of Jura located off the West coast of Scotland. Lightly peated in flavour, Jura Superstition doesn’t have the polarising nature of many of the Island whiskies, which is probably the secret of its success."

Previous winners of the award include Dalmore 12 year old, Laphroaig Quarter Cask, Auchentoshan 12 year old, Bowmore 12 year old and Bunnahabhain 12 year old.

SOMETHING QUITE EXTRAORDINARY FROM THE GLENROTHES With the popularity of TV shows like Downton Abbey and vintage clothes popping up on the catwalk, it seems the fashion for harking back to the past is all the rage. And now The Glenrothes has followed suit, releasing a series of single cask bottlings from the late 1960s and early 1970s called ‘The Extraordinary Cask Collection’.

Since 1994, The Glenrothes has released less than one single cask a year, but a cache of casks came to the attention of Ronnie Cox, Brands Heritage Director, and after a lengthy process of assessment, a small number of these casks were selected as being worthy of The Glenrothes Extraordinary Cask Collection.

Ronnie says, “Extraordinary is a term associated with the heritage of the wines. It applies equally to these casks selected for their personality and excellence, allowing them to stand alone as examples of the supremacy of The Glenrothes bloodline. The first of these is a whisky distilled in 1970 which, in

keeping with The Glenrothes’ philosophy to bottle at peak maturity, is now ready to be committed to glass.”

The shape of the bottle has been retained and enhanced further, using hand-blown lead crystal, for the single cask decanter in a way that is in keeping with heritage of The Glenrothes. Each decanter has been individually created by a master craftsman at Atlantis Crystal in Alcobaca, Portugal, using the purest form of crystal.

David Beard, Creative Director at the agency Brandhouse, which designed the decanter, suggest the bottle takes extra inspiration from the world of perfume. The outer case is fine, hand-crafted leather, and each bottle comes with its own oak plinth, made from solid Scottish oak, for display purposes. However you need to have some cash in the bank ...prices start at £3000 per bottle.

For more information on the initial launch, The Glenrothes 1970 Extraordinary Cask #10573, visitwww.theglenrothes.com.

Glasgow’s very own Morrison Bowmore Distillers - the producer of Auchentoshan, Bowmore, Glen Garioch and McClelland’s - has been voted Whisky Distiller of the year at the 2013 Icons of Whisky Awards Scotland.

The awards, which took place last month at Edinburgh’s Prestonfield House, celebrate the people and places behind the greatest whiskies in the world and two long serving MBD employees also won individual awards.

Eddie MacAffer, Bowmore Distillery Manager, won the inaugural Distillery Manager of the Year category for 46 years of committed service, and Iain McCallum landed the Brand Ambassador award.

Mike Keiller, CEO, Morrison Bowmore Distillers said, “To see off such stiff competition and land a hat-trick of awards is a massive boost for us.

Compared to any of our peers, we’re a small company so it’s immensely flattering to see both our business growth and individual expertise recognised. Being a single malt specialist requires considerable care and patience, but we’re certainly reaping the rewards of our investment.”

Aberdeen student Blair Bowman has decreed that World Whisky Day 2013 will take place on Saturday 18th May. The plan is to celebrate Scotland's national drink around the world on that day. For further information go to www.worldwhiskyday.com DRAM

7

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 8

NEWS Bourbon enthusiasts will be over the moon to know that the Buffalo Trace Distillery 2012 Antique Collection has now arrived in the UK. The Buffalo Trace Distillery 2012 Antique Collection includes: Eagle Rare 17 Year Old, George T. Stagg, Sazerac Rye 18 Year Old, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye, and William Larue Weller.

Said Buffalo Trace Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley, “Every year the excitement and anticipation of these whiskeys grows and we’re excited as well to finally be able to share them, and look forward to seeing what critics and consumers alike think about them.”

Look out this month for The Macallan Gold, the first expression in The 1824 Series, which will eventually include three further expressions, Amber, Sienna and Ruby, to be launched in Spring 2013.

Bob Dalgarno, The Macallan whisky maker, says, “Using colour to drive and define a whisky differs dramatically from the conventional age approach.

The Macallan Gold allowed us to explore different casks and base our choices on aromas and flavours. The palate is ruled by citrus and boiled sweets along with hints of ginger and cinnamon, while soft oak notes reveal toasted apples.

We have been able to work creatively with the full range of matured stock available, rather than working to a pre-determined character based on age.“ The Macallan Gold is available to purchase from www.themacallan.com at a price of £36.

8

DRAM

Drambuie is Clapper Happy

Now you can combine a whisky liqueur cocktail with a trip to the cinema thanks to ‘A Taste of the Extraordinary’ - the brand new partnership between Drambuie and Edinburgh’s Filmhouse Cinema that will see the whisky liqueur brand support a series of film seasons over the next twelve months.

Cinema-goers to the Filmhouse, on Lothian Road, will get to sample Drambuie’s blend of Scotch whisky, spices and heather honey in an array of bespoke cocktails created to celebrate each season by Drambuie’s Brand Ambassador, Bruce Hamilton.

Vicki Wonders, Senior Brand Manager at The Drambuie Liqueur Company Ltd, says, “This is an exciting and relevant collaboration for

Drambuie. By adding a series of unique screenings to the already outstanding offering that the Filmhouse curates, we are enriching the cultural experience of the audience. This month, Drambuie presents Hitchcock’s Silent Seven, the first of the six film seasons. The season will be the first time that Hitchcock’s surviving silent films have been shown to Scottish audiences, after being restored by the British Film Institute. Over the next twelve months, Drambuie will continue to bring a series of firsts to Edinburgh’s home of cultural cinema with a further five film seasons. For updates and giveaways on Drambuie’s ‘A Taste of the Extraordinary’ cinema seasons, visit facebook.com/UKDrambuie or @Drambuie.

SECOND RELEASE OF BALBLAIR 1997 UNVEILED There’s been a second release of the 1997 Vintage of Balblair Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky meaning that, for the first time, there will be a core range of four Vintages (1975, 1989, 1997 and 2002) rather than three.

Balblair 1997 has a contemporary designed bottle, is un-chill-filtered, naturally coloured and is bottled at 46% abv.

Distillery Manager John MacDonald says, “The first release of the 1997 Vintage was in 2007, so this second release has enjoyed a further five years of maturation in first-fill American oak, ex-bourbon barrels. I trust that whisky enthusiasts worldwide will appreciate this newest member of the Balblair family.”

Master of Malt and whisky writer John Lamond has taken his The Scotch Whisky Trail Certificate Courses to The Good Spirits Co. at 23 Bath Street in Glasgow. There are two courses available, both of which are part lecture and part tasting: the Beginners class runs on a Monday evening and the Advanced on a Thursday, both starting at 6:30pm. The eight week courses cover everything from whisky production, maturation and marketing to the history of whisky and both

include in-depth tastings as part of each class. Both classes also feature a distillery or lab visit as part of the programme and all for the bargain price of £65 with an occasional small charge to cover some of the whiskies tasted. The next Beginners class begins on Monday 14th of January and the Advanced on Thursday 17th. Students must have completed the Beginners before doing the Advanced. For more information contact enquiries@scotchwhiskyacademy.com

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 9

Chocolate and whisky elevates Dalwhinnie to a whole new level of taste Whisky and Chocolate a match made in heaven. Our tours and tastings offer something a little different - a range of Classic Single Malts paired with specially selected luxury highland chocolates. Come and elevate your senses in one of the highest distilleries in the land.The tour lasts approx 45 minutes and gives an explanation of the traditional art of malt whisky distilling.At the end of the tour visitors will sample Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old Single Malt with some special selected chocolate that combines beautifully with the whisky.

The guides will talk the visitors through this tasting, giving advice on the best way to appreciate whisky and suggest other whisky and food combinations.Every adult visitor receives a complimentary

Dalwhinnie whisky glass and a discount voucher, which can be redeemed in our shop against any 70cl bottle of Single Malt Whisky.To ensure the best possible visitor experience tours sizes are kept to a maximum of 16 people

A record breaking whisky bottle was unveiled at the tail end of the summer when Famous Grouse revealed a bottle which can hold more than 200 litres of whisky, equivalent to 8,200 drams. Made by Czech glassmakers, the hand-blown bottle is 1.7-metre high and weighs 50 kg, and it entered the Guinness Word Record book book, beating former record holder Jack Daniels to the title. The giant bottle was filled in front of a Guinness World Record adjudicator at The Famous Grouse Experience in Perth.

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 10

NEWS anCnoc Releases Second in the Series from Peter Arkle anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky has just unveiled the second in the series of Limited Edition releases from its collaboration with internationally renowned Scottish illustrator, Peter Arkle. The partnership launched earlier this year, and has seen Arkle develop an exclusive range of limited edition designs for anCnoc; each based on a unique aspect of Knockdhu Distillery, home of the single malt in Huntly, Aberdeenshire. anCnoc’s eagerly anticipated new edition is inspired by Arkle’s visit to the distillery’s warehouse.

Arkle found this tranquil, dark space to have an enchanting

atmosphere – almost magical – with “an incredible sense of time passing”. This is conveyed in his evocative black and white illustration on the bottle, showing rows of casks disappearing into the darkness. The New Yorkbased illustrator comments, "My illustration aims to capture the essence of what makes the whisky so special – time, as the sense of time passing was almost tangible inside the warehouse. I hope that drinkers get as much enjoyment from my design as they do from the magic inside the bottle!” Gillian Gibson, anCnoc Brand Manager comments, “We are incredibly excited to release the next in the series of anCnoc’s Limited Edition campaign. ‘

WHISKY WONDERLAND & HOP HEAVEN

If you want one of the most interesting selections of whisky from the four corners of the Earth, we're here If you desire some cracking cask ale or some boutique bottles of beer, we're open If you just want some rest from the city centre scrum and a tasty hot pie, the oven's on.

If you're looking for the first ladies whisky club in Scotland, you'll find it in:

THE POT STILL 154 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 2TH Tel: 0141 333 0980 www.thepotstill.co.uk

10

DRAM

When Big Peat was launched in 2009, the character of Big Peat was created by a Scottish based design company, and he was modelled on the face of Francie – from Francie and Josie fame, who used to roll his face inside out when he drank whisky. Of course you won't be doing that when you try Christmas Big Peat 2012 – which differs from Big Peat due to its natural strength – some 53.6% ABV compared to 46% ABV. This Christmas Pig Peat also takes on a Santa look – with the chracter growing a white beard for the festive season.

The Big Peat brand, unusually for a blend of malts (formerly known as a vatted malt) consists of only Islay based malts including Ardbeg, Bowmore, Caol Ila and Port Ellen, with a couple of other secret ingredients thrown in. Look out for the Christmas Big Peat 2012 – it doesn't stay around long. For tasting notes see page 30.

LONGROW RANGE RELAUNCHED Campbeltown’s Springbank Distillery has relaunched its Longrow range of whiskies.

The extremely popular and highly-rated Longrow CV has been given a new, classic look and the CV part of the title has been dropped, though the whisky will remain exactly the same - a marriage of Longrow whisky of different ages and cask types specially chosen to bring out the peaty character inherent within the whisky but with an emphasis on ensuring the complexity and depth of flavour that Longrow is know for is maintained. Ranald Watson, Sales & Marketing Manager at Springbank Distillers Ltd, says, “Longrow is an interesting mix of two of Scotland’s regional styles. It has an in-built peatiness reminiscent of the Islay whiskies but it is still very much a Campbeltown classic. The peat doesn’t overpower the other flavours present in the dram but instead complements them very nicely, creating a whisky with real layers of flavour and character.”

The full Longrow range is available now from leading independent whisky stockists and suppliers.

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 11

THE LOCHSIDE HOTEL Lochside Hotel & Duffies bar, a friendly family run 10 bedroom hotel with magnificent views over Lochindaal from its very popular restaurant.

The hotel’s world famous lounge bar houses around 300 Islay malts.

Shore Street, Bowmore, Isle of Islay PA43 7LB T: +44 (0) 1496 810244 F: T: +44 (0) 1496 810390 www.lochsidehotel.co.uk

The Perfect Whisky Experience

Beautiful location - The Heart of Highland Perthshire Atmospheric heritage exhibition Traditional working distillery Taste Aberfeldy Single Malt straight from the cask Connoisseur and Private tours (booking essential)

Discover the spirit of Dewar’s Winter opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm, Closed Sunday Please ring for opening hours over Christmas & New Year Aberfeldy Distillery, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2EB Tel 01887 822010 www.dewars.com DRAM 11

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 12

GLOBAL EXP

Whisky Brand Ambassadors fly the flag Gor our national drink. A Wee DRAM profiles some of the guys who are spreading this message, not just in the UK, but across the world.

TOM JONES Global Ambassador for Johnnie Walker Diageo’s Tom Jones shares his name with the crooner famous for songs such as ‘What’s new Pussycat?’ ‘Delilah’ and most recent ‘Sex Bomb’, and he has definitely heard every joke going... He has just returned to the Diageo fold, having spent two years working with Morrison Bowmore as their European Whisky Ambassador, promoting their Single Malts and also their Japanese Whiskies to an international audience. Prior to joining Morrison Bowmore he had worked as a Brand Development Executive for Bulleit Bourbon, and has been involved in many high profile events including the Classic Malts Cruise, The Brit Awards and the Johnnie Walker Golf Championship at Gleneagles. Since re-joining the team as Global Ambassador for Johnnie Walker, Tom has been on quite a journey of his own hosting numerous media, sales force and journalists visits around Scotland; taken to the skies in a helicopter and to the lochs on a speedboat, even traversing the Western Isles in a yacht - mentoring Johnnie Walker, all the way. To add to that, he has also visited:- India, Dubai, Nigeria Cyprus, Greece, USA, Dominican Republic, Romania, Czech Republic, introducing the House of Johnnie Walker, to sales staff, distributors, customers and consumers.

As far as his most amazing event, Tom says, “In Dubai I did a Johnnie Walker Platinum label tasting 150 floors up in the Burj khalifa - could this be the highest Scotch tasting to date?

12

DRAM

ANDY GEMMELL Global Whisky Ambassador for Bacardi Global Brands ‘I have been in my new role of Global Whisky Ambassador for Bacardi Global Brands, taking care of Dewars Whisky and their Single Malts for a few months now. The reason I moved into the role was that the role has changed from what it used to entail. Before an ambassador basically turned up, did a tasting, and went home. Now there is more involved from trade advocacy programmes to drinks strategies and new product development. It has almost become half marketing half training. I also now get the opportunity to run a team and make a real difference to being able to give the right

STRUAN RALPH Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador for South East Asia ‘Being a brand ambassador is an honour and a pleasure. The hard work and often long hours are more than compensated by the satisfaction of representing this fantastic family of Distillers.

Bartending, as preparation for a further career in the drinks industry, is perfect. Bartenders and drinks industry professionals all share a certain affinity which I think comes from their hard working nocturnal existence. We also share intimate knowledge of what consumers actually want. When I graduated in Chemistry, I had already been bartending for 5 years. I looked at the jobs I could do with chemistry, they didn’t appeal as much as the jobs I could do with wines and spirits, they were far more interesting, and offered the chance to travel the world and meet incredibly

interesting people. So I did a diploma in Wine and Spirits and then a masters in Marketing.

I find the global market for spirits a fascinating reflection of global financial and consumer trends. It also represents a great challenge. This job is very rewarding and challenging because I get to speak to different passionate people about whisky every day. I think the back bone of any market we wish to embrace is the bartenders, they have a captive audience and thrive on inspiration and novelty. It’s also a pleasure to work with professionals who share an interest in the way things are made and the way they are served. The fact that the Glenfiddich distillery is still family owned and we still have people who have been making the same whisky for the past 50 years makes a big difference. ‘

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 13

FEATURE

XPERTS message not just about our brands but also about our national spirit. Whisky is always where I knew I would end up. My role is Global now so you can imagine the travel that is involved. It is amazing but tiring at times. It gives me a great perspective about how people treat Scotch in different markets such as how the Chinese mix theirs long with Green tea but that’s better than Irn Bru I suppose. The ambassador role is a powerful one because you are the face of the brand so with great power comes great responsibility.’

CRAIG JOHNSTONE Bruichladdich Brand Ambassador ‘The best thing about being a Brand Ambassador is the fact that in this line of work every day is a school day.

Over the last decade I have been honoured to work for many whisky brands. My first foray into the whisky world was as a tour guide at Glenkinchie.

Customer service was king and still is the most important consideration in this line of work. I found out very quickly that for every story I delivered in a tour, I got at least 2 new anecdotes back, and at least one new question to ponder over and investigate. After 5 years at the distillery, I travelled Canada talking Scotch, and now I am learning even more about my trade with the masters at Bruichladdich. To connect with

people all over the world and share the stories of how our whisky has gathered it’s flavour and it’s soul is a massive privilege. There is nothing more rewarding than standing up in front of people, (whether 10 trade staff in a bar, or 200 whisky enthusiasts in a warehouse at Bruichladdich) and leading them through a master class connecting them with the spirit through laughter, stories and conversation.

My proudest moment until May 2012, it would have to be playing Wembley. A master class for 100 people before England vs Switzerland gave me the opportunity to stand up and say the immortal lines: “Good evening Wembley...”, before leading a group of fans

DARYL HALDANE Global Brand Advocate Highland Park Daryl Haldane, or Daz, as he is affectionately known, joined Edrington in January 2012 as the first ever Global Brand Advocate for Highland Park one of the most popular malts in the world.

Daryl’s role is focused on driving brand awareness and distribution across the globe and reinforces the ongoing commitment to brand education in key markets.

Prior to joining the Highland Park team, Daryl worked with Diageo’s Reserve Brands as a brand ambassador for over four years, specifically focused on cross category training around the UK. (He appeared to have a lot of fun in this role!) This covered a variety of functions from brand education to product development predominantly in the UK on-trade. A seasoned bartender and competitive mixologist, Daryl has first class skills and understanding of the dynamic trade environment as well as a strong appreciation of bar operations. through a line up of 5 single malts. An electric atmosphere!

This was surpassed this year at the Islay Festival. We hosted the Bruichladdich Young Guns master class - 200 people, in a warehouse, on Islay: the atmosphere was charged with anticipation, the air heavy with the Angels’ Share and the glasses charged with some cracking cask samples. It gives me goosebumps to think about it.’

DRAM

13

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:30 Page 14

Dalwhinnie Distillery Dalwhinnie Distillery, Dalwhinnie PH19 1AB T: 01540 672219 www.discoveringdistilleries.com/dalwhinnie Whisky and Chocolate; a match made in heaven. Our tours and tastings offer something a little different - a range of Classic Single Malts paired with specially selected luxury highland chocolates. Come and elevate your senses in one of the highest distilleries in the land.The tour lasts approx 45 minutes and gives an explanation of the traditional art of malt whisky distilling. At the end of the tour visitors will sample Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old Single Malt with some specially selected chocolate that combines beautifully with the whisky. To ensure the best possible visitor experience tours sizes are kept to a maximum of 16 people.

Tullibardine Distillery Tullibardine Distillery Stirling Street, Blackford, Perthshire PH4 1QG T: 01764 661 800 www.tullibardine.com Tullibardine is situated on the site of Scotland’s oldest brewery dating back to the 12th Century. In 1488 the beer was bought for King James IV’s coronation at Scone. The Distillery was converted in 1947 by William Delme Evans, mothballed in 1995 and re-opened as an Independent Distillery in 2003. Specialising in premium quality, exclusive and rare single malts, Tullibardine can be found on the A9 between Perth and Stirling in the village of Blackford. The various malts on offer come from the purest highland spring water from the Ochil’s and are uncomplicated, light, fruity with a mellow flavour and are easy to drink.

Isle of Arran Isle of Arran Distillers Ltd. Lochranza, Isle of Arran KA27 8HJ T: 01770 830264 www.arranwhisky.com The Isle of Arran Distillery is located in the village of Lochranza on the northwest tip of Arran where it is perfectly situated to benefit from the pure mountain spring water and soft sea air which grace this beautiful island. Established in 1995 the distillery has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the most dynamic in the whisky industry and was named as 'Scottish Distiller of the Year 2007' by Whisky Magazine. Visitors to the distillery can enjoy a full tour of the production process followed by a nosing and sampling in the tasting bar of our award winning range of single malts.

Glasgow

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 15

Cardhu Distillery Cardhu Distillery, Knockando, Aberlour, Banffshire AB38 7RY T: 01479 874635 Share with us the story of the only malt distillery pioneered by a woman. The malt whisky produced here has a warmth and cleanliness of taste which experts describe as "silky" and is used in some of the award winning Johnnie Walker blends.

Our distillery shop stocks a wide range of single, rare and blended whiskies, and blended whisky. Here you will find our own Cardhu Single Malt and as the home of the Johnnie Walker brand we stock a wide range of Johnnie Walker blends

Cragganmore Ballindalloch, Banffshire AB37 9AB T: 01479 874715 Cragganmore Distillery, on the banks of the river Spey, is home to one of the most complex and characterful malt whiskies of the revered Speyside region.

Our distillery shop stocks a wide range of single and rare malt whiskies. Here you will find our own Cragganmore 12 year old single malt, Cragganmore Distillers Edition & our Cragganmore 21 year old Special Edition.

Aberdeen

w Edinburgh

Glenkinchie Pencaitland, Tranent, East Lothian EH34 5ET T: 01875 342012 www.discovering-distilleries.com Come and visit the distillery and experience a real taste of Scotland.

Your visit begins in our Old Malting Floors where you will have a chance to see our fantastic exhibition which hosts the renowned model distillery. You will then be met by your guide and you will by led through the production area of the distillery learning how to make our water of life. To finish your tour you are welcomed into the bar for a dram of Glenkinchie 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky.

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 16

INTERVIEW

POTTY ABOUT WHISKY Frank Murphy, 36, used to work in his dad’s pubs in Glasgow /ow he and his family own one of Scotland's most iconic whisky bars The Pot Still which boastT some 460 whiskies.

What brought you into the pub industry?

My dad had a pub from about when I was six years old, so you could say that working in the drinks industry runs in the family. My dad ran what was The Hyndland Bar - now the Rio CafĂŠ - on Hyndland Street, and I started working there when I was 18. I was a beer drinker back then, but this was of course my springboard into whisky.

What were you doing before the drinks industry beckoned you?

I went to Coventry University to study automotive engineering. I wasn’t sent there, I went of my own accord, but I only stayed there a year, as I was homesick. Just before I left my dad started running the Arlington Bar on the corner of Arlington Street and Woodlands Road in Glasgow, so I came home and worked with my dad for a a while in the bar.

Have you always wanted to own your own bar?

I always thought I could do it better than my dad, so that drove me on. But then I would get the odd doubt and go off on tangents, like going to university. But I always kept coming back to the pub industry, and in time came to appreciate all that my dad had achieved and then I started to 16

DRAM

fully embrace whisky. It’s like that Mark Twain quote that talks about how he always thought his father was a fool, until he got older and was amazed by how much he’d learned. Age gives you such a different perspective on things.

What does your role involve?

Running a popular whisky bar in Glasgow is a privilege.

People come from all around the world to learn about whisky, and because they have made that journey, they deserve to be listened to. So I don’t talk up my own agenda or push things on people, and I do like to have as much background information as I can on most whiskies at my fingertips. Glasgow is also a pit stop for many whisky trails further north, so it’s also my role to offer practical advice on, say, booking the ferry for people going to Islay.

What is your favourite tipple?

My regular Friday night whisky is Benromach 10-year-old. My desert island dram would be 30-year-old sherry matured Highland Park.

What do you say to people that say they don’t like whisky?

I keep putting bottles in front of their face until they find one that they do. People will

say ‘yes’ to a Baileys or Jack Daniel’s, without realising that they are drinking whisky, so it’s about making people realise how diverse it is. That makes the next step towards adopting whisky far easier.

What do you do in your spare time?

My sister Geraldine and I love to ‘geek out’ the Speyside Whisky Festival every year, and I also play rugby every Saturday at Cartha Queens Park Rugby Club on Glasgow’s south side. Working in the pub all week, it’s great to be able to legally hit someone every Saturday. Only joking!

Where do you socialise?

My own place, naturally. I also like Glasgow bars The Clockwork Beer Company on Cathcart Road, The Finnieston on Argyle Street and Brew Dog on Dumbarton Road. And I like to pop into The Bon Accord on North Street too, from time to time.

What are you busy organising at the moment?

It’s The Pot Still’s first birthday (under the Murphy clan ownership) the weekend of the 28th November, so we are busy organising lots of events for the whole weekend, like tastings and live music. And all for free. Details will be posted soon to the website: www.thepotstill.co.uk.

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 17

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 18

Douglas Laing

A FEISTY BIG PHENOLIC CHARACTER FROM ISLAY – IN WHOSE COMPANY DETECT SEA FARING QUALITIES COMBINING CREOSOTED BEACH HUTS WITH SWEET IODINE AND SEAWEED, FINISHING WITH THE ASHES OF A DAMP BEACH BONFIRE AND APPROPRIATELY THIS TIME OF YEAR - EVEN SOME CHIMNEY SOOT.

STOCKED THROUGHOUT SCOTLAND AT; Aberdeen Aberdeen Whisky Shop, S R & E Barron (Dyce). Ayr Robbies Drams. Dundee Aitken Wine Warehouse. Edinburgh Royal Mile Whiskies Whiski Rooms (Shop). Glasgow Peckhams. Highlands Baxters/ Blackford Whisky Galore/Tyndrum Deeside Drinks/Emporuim/Banchory Dunnottar Wines & Spirits/Stonehaven Robertsons/Pitlochry Single Malts Direct/Huntly The Whisky Shop/Dufftown Wood Winters Wines & Whiskies/Bridge of Allan. Islay D & G Christie and The Whisky Shop Estate throughout Scotland/England.

18

Facebook/BigPeat www.bigpeat.com www.douglaslaing.com Please enjoy respectfully DRAM

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 19

COCKTAILS

WINTER COCKTAILS CRANBERRY COOLER

DRAMBUIE RUSTY NAIL Ingredients Drambuie Rusty Nail 35ml Drambuie 35ml Blended Whisky

Ingredients 35ml Maker’s Mark® Bourbon 1 tbsp cranberry jam 1 tbsp maple syrup 1 drop vanilla extract 3 measures of cranberry juice Splash club soda Fresh cranberries for garnish

Method Half fill a rocks glass with ice and the Drambuie and whisky and stir.

Method Add the Maker’s Mark® Bourbon, cranberry jam, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cranberry juice to a shaker. Add ice. Shake vigorously. Strain over ice and add a splash of soda. Garnish with cranberries.

BLOODY RABBIE

CHOCOLATE TREAT Ingredients 35mls Whyte & Mackay 13yo 15mls Mozart white chocolate liquor 10mls Gomme 5mls Triple sec

Ingredients 35ml of Blended Whisky Tomato juice Worcester sauce Slice lemon Ice

Method In a boston add all of the ingredients and fill with cubed ice and shake hard. Double train and pour in to a chilled martini glass and garnish with a twist of lime.

Method Take a tall glass, add the whisky, add ice, top up with tomato juice, add a dash of worcester sauce, and lemon to garnish.

DRAM 19

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 20

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 21

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON 3 November The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Weekend Special Tasting The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 28 Queen Street, Edinburgh 4-5pm Members ticket £10 Non-members £15 www.smws.co.uk First Saturday every month, The Society takes you on a tutored tasting that's ideal to kick start your evening at The Society, or relax after a shopping session in the city centre. One hour, three drams with a chaser and expertise of our Ambassador. Afterward, why not book a table in The Dining Room or enjoy food at the bar.

17 November Malt Whisky Festival 2012 The Arches, Midland Road, Glasgow There will be more than 40 stands in two atmospheric, stone arches featuring Scotland’s best drams, plus whiskies from all over the world. Further stands will offer whisky-related art, books and other items. More details to be confirmed.

Doors open at 1pm and last pour will be at 4:45pm. Ticket on sale from 1st December.

More information at: www.glasgowwhiskyfestival.c om 7, 14, 21, 28 December Whisky and Cheese Tasting The WHISKI Rooms, Edinburgh Time: 6PM Price: £20 pp What better way to break out from last minute Christmas shopping than a whisky and cheese tasting at the Whiski Rooms? Four different single malts will be

matched to four extremely different cheeses. One for whisky lovers and those yet to be converted! £5 of ticket price can be used as a voucher against any 70cl single malt whisky is store and is valid for one week.

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky Tour Price: £34.00, Discount: £32.00 Visit: www.timberbushtours.co.uk Explore Perthshire’s beautiful scenic glens and visit Scotland’s oldest distillery, The Famous Grouse Experience (Est. 1775).

Experience a brand new interactive tasting bar and enjoy an exclusive tasting of a 30 year old malt whisky for Timberbush customers taking the distillery tour. Take a woodland walk at The Hermitage and enjoy a brief visit to the picturesque town of South Queensferry with the chance to enjoy spectacular views of the Forth Bridges.

Monthly on a Wednesday Night Whisky Loving Ladies Night The Pot Still, Glasgow Run by Geraldine Murphy, this ladies only whisky night is ideal for those wanting to learn more about whisky in a fun environment. With Master Blender special guests.

For details of the next event email: gpotstill@gmail.com 29 November Oran Mor Whisky Awards Oran Mor, Glasgow Tickets £50 plus VAT To book call 0141 357 6200 Find out what whiskies have impressed the judges.

And enjoy a three-course

meal and live entertainment too.

6 December Scotch Whisky Taining School (one day course) Time: 9:00 AM to 5:15 PM The Scotch Whisky Experience, 354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NE www.scotch-whiskyexperience.co.uk For further information please contact Angela Keir on 0131 478 7120.

Spend a day “immersed” in the world of Scotch Whisky with our whisky course. And gain the “Certificate of Expertise” recognised by the Scotch Whisky Industry.

A mixture of hands on activities and different learning styles are covered to make the day entertaining and fun as well as highly educational and informative.

Course Price : £165.00 25 January 2013 Scotch Whisky Taining School (one day course) Time: 9:00 AM to 5:15 PM The Scotch Whisky Experience, 354 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2NE www.scotch-whiskyexperience.co.uk For further information please contact Angela Keir on 0131 478 7120.

Spend a day “immersed” in the world of Scotch Whisky with our whisky course. And gain the “Certificate of Expertise” recognised by the Scotch Whisky Industry.

A mixture of hands on activities and different learning styles are covered to make the day entertaining and fun as well as highly educational and informative.

DRAM

21

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 22

The Whiski Rooms

The Queen’s Arms

Pubs and whisky The Wee DRAM takes a look at some of Scotland’s most interesting whisky bars.

THE ARDSHIEL, Kilkerran Road, Campbeltown The Ardshiel Hotel has a whisky bar with close to 700 whiskies displayed. The bar and lounge areas have just been refurbished and the latest addition to the whisky collection is The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Glen Grant 60year-old, and the hotel has bottle number 7, of only 85. The new look bar and lounge features tartan clad walls, and the new function suite is where its Whisky Club meets.

THE QUEEN’S ARMS, Edinburgh Not only is The Queen’s Arms ideal for a dram, but as a former DRAM Gastro Pub of the year winner, it’s also great for a bite to eat. It’s an Edinburgh favourite with 50 malts on offer and lots of fun events. Said assistant manager Kate Trusdale, “The Make a Date with Whisky nights (whisky speed tasting where you can find your perfect malt partner) are always popular and it’s fantastic to see lots of new faces, and whisky lovers as well as people who are relative novices enthuse about 22

DRAM

our national drink. We are also finding that our specialist ranges, like The Macallan 1946, are going great guns.”

THE BEN NEVIS, 1147 Argyle Street, Glasgow You’re guaranteed a warm welcome at one of Glasgow’s best loved whisky bars thanks to the indomitable licensee, Elaine Scott, and the roaring fire. And the red carpet is also laid out for pooches, which is why the bar took home the Dog Friendliest Pub of the Year accolade at this year’s DRAM awards. Live traditional music sessions happen every Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday, and it’s so good in fact that last year The Ben Nevis walked away with the Traditional Music and Song Association Scotland’s award for live music in 2011.

THE MERCAT BAR & RESTAURANT, 28 West Maitland Street, Edinburgh The Mercat recently debuted its new whisky basement bar. With its stone clad walls and atmospheric lighting, it’s the perfect place to sample a dram.

It currently has just under 100 whiskies available although the aim is to have more than 300.

Staff are always happy to offer advice, so don't be afraid to try something new.

THE BLACK CAT, 168 Rose Street, Edinburgh The Black Cat opened in April 2011, and in that short time it has built up quite a following. It now has around 100 malts on offer. Says owner Chris Miles, “I wanted to open a traditional pub that looked great and provided a great environment for whisky drinkers. I think that we have achieved that with a contemporary Scottish design, and of course friendly staff who

The Mercat bar & restaurant

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 23

FEATURE The Black Cat

y galore are very knowledgeable about the stuff. We also have live music every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday, which is always very informal and relaxed.”

THE BON ACCORD, 153 North Street, Glasgow The Bon Accord was recently named Bowmore Whisky Bar of the Year 2012. It has come a long way since it re-opened in 2001 with just a handful of malts on the gantry. It now boasts a range of more than 300 whiskies, ranging from nips at £2 to a dram at £150, and the Bon Accord is now rightly one of Glasgow’s most iconic whisky bars. It also serves food, and after attending training sessions at the Auchentoshan distillery, the staff are always clued up on whisky and quick to recommend the best nip for every type of palate.

THE WHISKI ROOMS, 4-7 North Bank Street, Edinburgh Where can you sample a wee dram, buy it, enjoy some food, and all with a great view of the capital? The WHISKI Rooms has all three and is unique in Scotland in that it’s

The Ben Nevis

a whisky bar and bistro, where you can sample a range of over 500 whiskies that are mostly available to buy at the adjacent shop. There’s also a dedicated tasting room within the shop and lots of tasting events and whisky-related events in the bar, plus live jazz at the weekends. There’s also pavement seating where you can take in even more of that view over Princes Street Gardens.

The Lochside Hotel

THE LOCHSIDE HOTEL & DUFFIES BAR, Shore Street, Bowmore, Isle of Islay This family run, 10-bedroom Lochside Hotel boasts some 300 Islay fine and rare malts that can be enjoyed in the relaxed and informal setting of Duffies Bar, or over dinner in the restaurant overlooking Loch Indaal. As well as being a great base for a tour of Islay's distilleries - the hotel is also a stone’s throw from the Bowmore Distillery and its state-of-the-art visitor centre the staff are always happy to educate visitors on the merits of whisky. Well worth a visit.

For information of Glasgow’s other iconic pub see pages 16-17.

The Bon Accord

The Ardshiel

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 24

Whisky Tasting

The October ‘For the Love of Whisky’ speed tasting events took place at Oran Mor in Glasgow, and a great night was had by all. If you want to see more about the event log on to www.barandpub.TV

24 DRAM

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 25

DRAM

25

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:31 Page 26

ADVERTORIAL

Relaunch for Longrow ampbeltown’s iconic Springbank Distillery has made a major change to its product line-up with a relaunch of the Longrow range of whiskies.

Longrow - produced from barley peated to between 45 and 50ppm - has had a makeover and the range of whiskies available has been revamped to better reflect the style and character of the smoky, complex single malt.

The extremely popular and highly-rated Longrow CV has been given a new, classic look and the CV part of the title has been dropped, though the whisky will remain exactly the same - a marriage of Longrow whisky of different ages and cask types specially chosen to bring out the peaty character inherent within the whisky but with an emphasis on ensuring the complexity and depth of flavour that Longrow is know for is maintained.

Ranald Watson, Sales & Marketing Manager at Springbank Distillers Ltd, commented: “The Longrow range is an important part of our work at Springbank, even though it only accounts for around 10% of

C

our annual production. We wanted to give the brand a bit of a freshen up to help bring it to the attention of single malt fans who, for one reason or another, maybe aren’t as aware of Longrow as they could be.

Longrow is an interesting mix of two of Scotland’s regional styles.

It has an in-built peatiness reminiscent of the Islay whiskies but it is still very much a Campbeltown classic. The peat doesn’t overpower the other flavours present in the dram but instead complements them very nicely, creating a whisky with real layers of flavour and character.”

A new, limited release named Longrow Red, bottled at cask

strength, will be released annually, with the debut 11yo bottling having been matured for seven years in bourbon casks followed by four years in cabernet sauvignon wine casks.

These casks were sourced by Springbank’s Director of Production Frank McHardy from Angove’s Long Row winery in western Australia - a nice connection between the northern and southern hemispheres.

The influence of those Long Row casks is very apparent in the Longrow whisky, with the tannins and other flavour components from the casks marrying nicely with the natural peaty, salty style of the whisky.

Completing the range is the Longrow 18yo, first released in 2008 and released annually in limited quantities.

As with all of Springbank’s output, all of the barley for the Longrow range is malted by hand on traditional malt floors at the distillery. The barley is dried over burning peat for up to 48 hours and the spirit is distilled twice, in the traditional Scottish style.

The full Longrow range is available now from leading independent whisky stockists and suppliers.

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:32 Page 27

GIFTS HIGHLAND PARK 21 YEAR OLD, 47.5% Originally created exclusively for global travel retail and duty free markets, this whisky was re-released in the UK earlier this year. Named Best Single Malt of the Year at the World Whisky Awards 2009, Highland Park 21 is a full-flavoured, powerful, sweet single malt with a rich smoky finish. The 2012 re-release also has the malt back at its old strength of 47.5% after a few years of selling at a lower strength due to stock shortages.

THE GLENCAIRN GLASS The perfect glass to enjoy your favourite whisky. This glass, which is available from most whisky shops, and directly from the makers Glencairn Crystal, was invented in 2001, and it subsequently won the Queens Award for Innovation. Today the glass can be found in use by every distillery in the UK & Ireland and many more around the world, from craft distillers in the USA to the Far East. http://shop.glencairn.co.uk from various outlets priced around £6.

S T F I G T PERFEC

ay's, ristmas to birthd le...

Ch m ro ..f r te in w peop ies in gifting opportun couple of ideas for whisky loving There are lots of a e ar e er versaries. H Valentines to anni THE ANGELS' SHARE DVD This film, which was released earlier this year, is now out on DVD. This whisky-tasting comedy from Ken Loach won the jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival, and is very entertaining.

The drama is about the how the lives of a group of city tearaways are turned around by an appreciation of whisky. Scotland’s whisky trade provides the film’s backdrop, with the central characters experiencing tasting sessions, quizzes, tours around distilleries, auctions of rare whiskies, and of course drinking the stuff. Play.com £11.49

MARKS AND SPENCER WHISKY CUBE

£50.

PERSONALISED MACPHAILS 10 YEARS OLD 10 YEARS OLD, STRENGTH 40%, SIZE 70CL, £35.00 Personalised MacPhail's 10 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky - Add up to 5 Lines of text to personalise this bottle of whisky, ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, retirements and many other special events. www.gordonandmacphail. com

DRAM

27

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:32 Page 28

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:32 Page 29

The Teeling Whiskey Company invents Hybrid Malt Whiskey The Teeling Whiskey Company has announced a whole new whiskey category with the launch of Hybrid Malt Whiskey.

In the Irish company's search for new and interesting tastes a new category of whiskey was born – Hybrid Malt whiskey.

The offspring from marrying award winning aged Malt whiskies from around the world creates a fusion of styles and flavours which delivers a truly unique taste experience.

Bottled at cask strength with no chill filtration or colouring added, Hybrid Malt Whiskey is for connoisseurs who can see beyond the norm.

Jack Teeling, Managing Director of the Teeling Whiskey Company, commented, “We set up the Teeling Whiskey Company to ensure that there

was an independent alternative to the multinationals who are currently driving the category.

We will focus on innovation and providing choice and unique whiskey expressions for whiskey connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

The Hybrid is a prime example of our approach to product and category innovation. It is a fusion of styles and flavours which delivers a truly unique taste experience. Over the coming months the Teeling Whiskey Company will release a range of other products that will further expand consumer choice and challenge existing perceptions of Irish whiskey.”

Edition No.1 of the Hybrid Malt Whiskey consists of award winning Single Malt whiskey

from Cooley Distillery in Ireland and 10 Year Old Single Malt whisky from Bruichladdich in Scotland which has been married together in oak barrels for 8 years. The Hybrid Malt Whiskey is bottled at cask strength at 44.1% Alc/Vol with no chill filtration or colouring added. Edition No.1 will be limited to just 1,200 70cl bottles.

A SENSATIONAL JOURNEY

NEW INTERACTIVE RETAIL EXPERIENCE FOR 2012 NEXT TO EDINBURGH CASTLE TEL 0131 220 0441 WWW.SCOTCHWHISKYEXPERIENCE.CO.UK

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:32 Page 30

NOTES

TASTING NOTES The great thing about malt whisky is that people can taste a whole variety of flavours in the liquid. Whisky connoisseurs have a host of descriptives, on this page we give you some that are used to describe the various Island malts. When we talk about nose we mean smell, and palate means the taste. The Finish, is the taste that remains once you have swallowed.

Highland Park 21 year old Colour: Natural colour; reddish gold Orkney sunset Nose: Butterscotch, dark chocolate and orange Palate: Full flavour, candied orange peel with spicy dark chocolate leading to a rich smoky sensation Finish: Rich, complex, sweet smoky sensation then soft medium dry Jura ‘Camus an Staca’ Colour: Amber in appearance Nose: The seductive nuances of sandalwood, tuberose, lime and spicy patchouli soon usher in hints of vanilla, Java coffee, tangerine and crushed Ogen melon. Whispers of sea spray, spicy apple and honeyed figs linger in the background.

Palate: Fleshy oranges, tangy liquorice, coconut and sweet pineapple are followed by orange rind, black cherries, dark toffee and sun dried raisins.

30

DRAM

GlenDronach Cask Strength Colour: A deep golden body glistens with rich crimson.

Nose: A luscious balance of succulent sherry aromas explode in honeydrizzled golden sultanas spiced by warm oak and gentle ginger.

Palate: Intense toffee and cocoa cascade into the rich sherrysoaked dark fruits. Zested orange explodes in the long, alcohol-infused chocolate fondant.

Christmas Big Peat 2012 Colour: Golden copper hue.

Nose: Big Peat is pure Islay in a glass. It has unmistakable bellowing raw peat smoke, new-laid tar, salt, mint and medicinal aromas.

Palate: It's considerably sweeter than it first suggests.

Sweet Japanese seaweed and Islay medicinal Finish: The finish explodes – coal dust, creosoted beach huts, tar and chimney soot...

Balblair 1997 Colour: Deep, golden amber in appearance, Nose: is redolent of tropical fruit; banana and pineapple together with green apple, orange and apricot as well as notes of honey, vanilla and butterscotch.

Palate: sweetness on the palate is underpinned by a full-bodied spiciness.

Finish: Long and maintains the spiciness detected earlier The Glenrothes Single Cask 1970 #10573 Colour: Clear and bright with rich golden hues.

Nose: Distinctly earthy and autumnal, windfall apples and cider cellar. Toffee apples with icing sugar, sponge fingers with custard, puff pastry with apple.

Palate: Lightly peppery and fresh with citrus and eucalyptus.

Subtle and supple, satin feel with a texture of crêpe de chine.

Finish: Long and beguiling with very, very dark chocolate.

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:32 Page 31

WeeDram7_WEE DRAM 18/10/2012 17:32 Page 32

FROM ITS ITS HOME HOME IN FROM IN THE THE SCOTTISH SCOTTISH HIGHLLA ANDS, TTHE GLENDRONACH HIGHLANDS, HE GLENDRONACH DISTILLERY HAS BEEN D ISTILLERY H AS B EEN CREATING THE CREATING THE SHERRIED SINGLE FFINEST INEST RICHLY RICHLY SHERRIED SINGLE MALTS MALTS FOR NEARLY NEARLY 200 200 YEARS. YEARS. FOR In 2008 nothing less than a complete renaissance began when GlenDronach was returned to independent ownership once again. April 2009 marked the return of the iconic and world famous older expressions – the GlenDronach 15 and 18 year olds, under the new names of Reevival and Allardice. The latest discovery to be added to our core range is the 21 year old Parliament.

G GLENDRONACH, LENDRONACH, A JOURNEY JOURNEY OF OF REDISCOVERY. REDISCOVERY. www.glendronachdistillery.co.uk

THE BENRIACH SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

ESTABLISHED IN 1898 AND LOCATED IN THE ‘HEART OF SPEYSIDE’, THE BENRIACH DISTILLERY BECAME INDEPENDENT IN 2004.

PREVIOUSLY UNDISCOVERED, THE DISTILLERY IS NOW ENJOYING A NEW LEASE OF LIFE. With access to an impressive inventory of maturing whiskies dating back as far as 1966, our range of expressions is varied both in terms of age and style, including ‘classic Speyside’, special ‘finishes’, heavily peated BenRiach and single cask vintage bottlings.

UNLOCK THE SECRETS

www.benriachdistillery.co.uk