THE SMOKEHEAD FEAST NORTH EAST 250
SUMMER 2018
ISSUE 18
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elcome to the Summer edition of our Wee DRAM. This issue we have plenty of news and an interesting Q&A with young whisky entrepreneur Calum Leslie. See what he has to say on our centre pages. Jocelyn O’Keefe also checked out the new NE250 route. Summer is the ideal time to visit a whisky distillery or two and we have ten distilleries highlighted for you to visit over the next few months. Whisky is getting more fashionable by the day
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News
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The North East 250
The latest from the world of whisky.
and our cover features the recent Smokehead Feast which took place at SWG3 - guests were able to enjoy a variety of food with the whisky. A perfect match. Meanwhile Jura also relaunched recently with a new look and a new range. The launch at the Kelvingrove Cafe was a great night. See all the pictures on page 30. We hope you enjoy this Wee DRAM. See you in September. Slainte Susan Young, Editor.
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A road worth travelling. Jocelyn O’Keefe report.
17 Calum Leslie Q&A
A man of a mission.
23 Distilleries Galore
10 of the Best distilleries to visit.
28 Whisky Gifting
Editor Susan Young Editorial Jocelyn O’Keefe Sales Executives Jacqui Allan, Sylvia Forsyth Production Lorraine Gourlay, Dougie Wagstaff Dogs Tootsie & Lucy
30 Jura reveals new look & range See all the pictures from Jura’s re-launch
A Wee DRAM is published by Media World Ltd.
Do you know what you are getting your dad for Father’s Day?
evening.
34 What’s On
Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, 1103 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8ND Tel 0141 221 6965 Email dram@mail.com The publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors/omissions. Any 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 2018 ISSN No 1470 - 2428
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NEWS
GOING FOR GOLD AND WINNING! It’s been a good month for Glasgow-based Whyte & Mackay. The company has picked up five gold medals at this years International Spirits Challenge. Whyte & Mackay Triple Matured Blended Scotch Whisky, Whyte & Mackay 13 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky, Fettercairn 40 Year Old Single Highland Malt, The Dalmore Cigar Malt Single Highland Malt and The Dalmore 40 Year Old Single Highland Malt all picked up medals. Meanwhile Balblair Distillery also scooped up two gold medals at the International Spirits Challenge Awards. The two winning whiskies were the 2000 and 1991 Vintages which were only introduced to the market earliers this year. Despite their newer labels winning gold, Balblair have been producing premium whisky since 1790, making it one of the oldest working distilleries in the highlands.
NEW MACAL HAS THE WO
SMOKEHEAD UNLEASED AT SMOKEHEAD FEAST Smokehead Single Malt Whisky hosted an immersive evening of mind-blowing cocktails and big, bold smoky dishes last month at SWG3 in Glasgow to launch its new look and a new expression – Smokehead High Voltage. Commenting on the new expression and bold new look, Iain Weir, Brand Director for Smokehead said, “Smokehead has always challenged the traditional whisky world with its unconventional look and attitude, appealing to the younger and adventurous whisky drinker. We’ve turned up the volume right across the brand. It’s not for everyone, but that’s ok.” “And if Smokehead is an assault on your senses, then High Voltage is an all-out
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attack. Louder, bolder and more intense than getting put in a headlock from an angry roadie.” The iconic skull logo now plays a much more dominant role on the label and striking gift tin. One thing that hasn’t changed though is its bold and award-winning taste which still takes you on a fiery rollercoaster of peat, smoke and spice with a little delicate sweetness thrown in. Smokehead is a premium whisky, as independent, strong and single minded as the people who drink it. It is owned by Ian Macleod and costs £38.99 for Smokehead and High Voltage comes in at around £54.99. ‘Smokehead’ and ‘Smokehead High Voltage’ are both
available through specialists and multiples worldwide. Smokehead RRP £38.99 and High Voltage RRP £54.99.
www.smokehead.com
LLAN DISTILLERY OW FACTOR
There is now a distillery with a real Wow factor and that’s the new Macallan Distillery at Easter Elchies estate in Speyside. It’s unlike any distillery and visitor centre you will have seen before. The striking piece of contemporary architecture is cut into the slope of the land, taking its cues from ancient Scottish hills which maximises say the company, “the aesthetic beauty of the building whilst minimising the visual impact on the Speyside landscape”. Not only that but the undulating timber roof structure is one of the most complicated timber roof structures in the world, comprising 380,000 individual components. The owners of The Macallan, Edrington, have invested £140m in the distillery and visitor experience and is also investing a further £350m this includes the launch of its new bottle, a new advertising campaign and more. Ian Curle, Chief Executive, Edrington, said: “This is an exciting occasion for Edrington and The Macallan. The unsurpassed quality of The Macallan is in high demand and we face the future confidently with this new distillery. It’s an authentic, abiding, ambitious investment that will match consumer expectations for generations to come.” he continued, “We expect this new Macallan enterprise to deliver significant benefits for the tourism industry, Scotch whisky exports, and the economy.” For further information visit www.themacallan.com
NEWS
OLDEST KNOWN BOTTLE OF GLENFARCAS COMES HOME
There is a new, but old, bottle of Glenfarclas now on view at the Glenfarclas Visitor Centre in Speyside. The recently rediscovered bottle is from 1920 and is the oldest known unopened bottle of Glenfarclas, which makes it a very important addition to the Glenfarclas archive. The bottle came home during a lunch in April when John Grant was able to inspect it in person for the first time after the family that owned it contacted them. A number of features on the bottle meant he had absolutely no doubt about it’s authenticity. In an age when a number of bottles purportedly from that time are turning out to be counterfeit, this one is definitely the real deal.
CALLING ALL BARTENDERS... Auchentoshan is on the hunt for creative bartenders to join its international bartender collective as it launches its New Malt Order 2018 competition. The competition challenges bartenders to create a cocktail that captures the essence of Auchentoshan’s triple distilled malt whisky while drawing
inspiration from the bartenders home city of Glasgow. Entriesclose on June 30th and winners will be revealed in September. Winners will be given the exclusive opportunity to visit the home of Auchentoshan in Glasgow and create an exclusive liquid with its Master Blender Ron Welsh. 5
NEWS
NEW DISTILLERY FOR EDINBURGH Since 1801 the Crabbie name has associated with Edinburgh - most recently it has been connected with Crabbie’s, the number one selling alcoholic ginger beer, but the real history of the Crabbie name lies in Scotch whisky and now John Crabbie & Co has announced today that it plans to build a new single malt whisky distillery in Leith. Crabbie parent company, Halewood Wines & Spirits has announced plans to invest more than £7m in the new Scotch whisky distillery in Leith which is expected to open in early 2019, this will be the first single malt distillery to open in the city for more than 100 years. John Crabbie is also known for creating the North British grain distillery in Edinburgh which is still thriving today. David Brown, managing director said, “We are delighted to announce our plans to invest in the creation of a new distillery in Leith. It’s particularly pleasing that it will bear the name of John Crabbie, surely one of Edinburgh’s most legendary sons.
“The site we have chosen in Leith has historical links with Scotch whisky production and maturation dating back over 200 years and we hope it will contribute to the rising prosperity of the area with the creation of new jobs and through attracting additional visitors to the city. “ For more information, visit www.crabbiewhisky.com.
222 A SPECIAL NUMBER Speyburn Single Malt Scotch Whisky has put up for sale 222 limited edition bottles of its new 2004 Single Cask – number 263. The cask which has been maturing for the past 14 years is the first Speyburn Single Cask to be made available in the UK. The liquid from this 1st fill ex-bourbon American oak cask is light golden in appearance and bottled at a strength of 52.5%. Gillian Gibson, Brand Manager, International Beverage, said, “This whisky embodies Speyburn’s signature style – reflecting the heritage and stunning natural landscape of the distillery’s home in the heart of Speyside. What’s more, it’s the first of its kind being sold only in the UK.” Speyburn 2004 Single Cask 263 expression costs £90.00 for a 70cl bottle and will be available to buy from Gordon & McPhail. 7
NEWS
From the Dark into the Light Orkney malt Highland Park has launched ‘The Light’, a new 17 year old single malt Scotch whisky, which has been aged exclusively in American oak casks. The new malt represents the spring and summer seasons on Orkney, and follows in the footsteps of ‘’The Dark’ which was released last year and represented autumn and winter. Jason Craig, Brand Director,
Highland Park, comments, “In both The Light and The Dark, we share the story of the noble Viking warriors who are our ancestors, of our contrasting island seasons and of the intense balance of our whisky. Our award-winning whiskies deliver flavours of smoky sweetness that’s the product of our climate and our craftsmanship – our own continuous cycle.”
DEWARS ABERFELDY WINS BEST VISITOR ATTRACTION
The team at Perthshire-based Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery is in high spirits after topping off five years of growth in its visitor experience business by winning Best Visitor Attraction at the Scottish Thistle Awards. The distillery attracted 38,000 whisky fans through 2017/18, with more visitors than ever opting to enjoy an upgraded tour experience, such as the Cask Tasting tour. The team has been working hard at creating one of Scotland’s finest tourism experiences including investments such as a new multi-media app, delivered via iPads®, which allows visitors to explore the Dewar’s archive in greater depth. Charlotte Brown, UK Brand 8
Three cheers for 30 years
Homes General Manager comments, “Our entire team is exceptionally honoured to have won this award. We set out not just to represent ourselves, but to be ambassadors for the amazing visitor offering in Perthshire, and for Whisky tourism as a whole. This really is the icing on the cake of a hugely successful year, both in terms of increased footfall and major award wins. Here’s to many more years of working with VisitScotland and other partners to enhance our product and promote our region.” Other nominees in the category included Summerhall Distillery, Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre and the DogWalk Brewery Tour.
The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh has welcomed 6.8 million whisky fans since 1988 – and this year it is toasting its 30th year anniversary with a new and exclusive bottled blend and some special events. The blend is limited to only 550 bottles, each individually numbered and visitors undertaking the Platinum Whisky Tour over the coming months will have the exclusive opportunity to sample it. During the course of the last 30 years a whopping 8 million drams have been sampled at the whisky attraction and local MSP Ruth Davidson recently popped into find out what it is that makes the Scotch Whisky Experience the success it is. Susan Morrison, director and general manager at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said,“We pride ourselves on providing a unique experience for all our guests, whether it’s a whisky tasting or blending session, or an intimate private dining experience and we have had a huge amount of success over the past three decades. She continued, “It’s incredible to think that we have shared some of world’s best whiskies with 6.8 million visitors from all around the globe in the past thirty years and we are very excited to see what the next thirty will bring.”
s of the Scotch Whisky Experience
WHISKI ROOMS BAR • RESTAURANT • WHISKY SHOP Whisky Bar of the Year 2013/2014, SLTN Awards Fresh, local, scottish produce. Over 350 whiskies, premium wines and spirits. Daily Whisky Tastings. Private dining and events. Iconic views over Edinburgh. The Mound, 4-7 North Bank Street, Edinburgh www.whiskirooms.com bar@whiskirooms.co.uk Bar & Bistro 0131 225 7224
Whisky Shop 0131 225 1532
DISCOVER DISCOVERY They say there is a whisky for everyone and family-run malt whisky distillers, Gordon & MacPhail, should know. They have been introducing people to whisky for more than a hundred years and the company has just introduced a new range ‘Discovery’. It’s a range of carefully selected whiskies grouped and colour coded under three flavour profiles: smoky, sherry and bourbon, which certainly makes it easier for you to pick the one you might like best. They say the whiskies have been designed to ‘help whisky drinkers to begin an exploratory journey through the Gordon & MacPhail portfolio’, and each bottle also has a brief tasting note and either a vintage or age statement. Stephen Rankin, Director of Prestige and a fourth-generation member of the Urquhart family, owners of Gordon & MacPhail, says, “We’re proud to be the curators of the world’s most diverse stock of single malt whiskies from over 100 distilleries. We’ve spent several years working to develop this new range for whisky lovers globally. “Discovery’ offers whisky drinkers the opportunity to begin a journey with us through the Gordon & MacPhail whiskies portfolio. By offering flavour profiles and tasting notes, we want to help the discerning consumer navigate their choices with confidence, beyond their usual malt.”
Multi-award Winning Whisky Bar and Restaurant
Multi-award Winning Whisky Bar and Restaurant
Over 300 whiskies Online whisky shop - worldwide delivery Come on down for the ultimate Scottish experience... Fresh Scottish food served all day Live Scottish music every night Come on down for the ultimate Scottish experience... 119 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SG T: 0131 556 3095 www.whiskibar.co.uk E: info@whiskibar.co.uk 9
NEWS
THE MONKEY MIXER HITS THE ROAD Monkey Shoulder is on a mission to quite literally mix things up this summer. The Monkey Mixer aka an 11,000 litre pimped out cement mixer truck will be hitting the roads touring festivals and events around the UK to give the same old, same old a serious shakeup! There’s nothing wrong with drinking Scotch neat but in true Monkey Shoulder fashion the brand wants to give Brits even more reason to play around with their whisky by trying it mixed. And, what better way to deliver this to the masses than in its very own mixer truck, holding up to 11,000 litres of cocktail at any one time, and kitted out with a DJ booth and sound system to rival any club. On top of this, Monkey Shoulder have built-in an additional retractable bar – transformer style – ensuring the Monkey Mixer creates the perfect party vibe wherever it turns up.
John Wayte, Monkey Shoulder UK ambassador says, “Our mission is simple: to challenge the way people think about Scotch. We’re an award winning whisky that’s made for mixing – for us this isn’t just about creating new and interesting ways of drinking whisky, but about mixing with people, with music, with food, to create fun, shared experiences. The Monkey Mixer is a vehicle that will drive this mission in an unmistakably Monkey Shoulder way across the country, and hopefully turn whisky perceptions on their head”. It will be in Edinburgh at the Foodies Festival Edinburgh, Inverleith Park from the 3rd to 5th Augustwhere it will be batching up thirstquenching summer serves. #MakeItMonkey.
RECORD-BREAKING SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL The organiser of The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival no doubt are taking a well-earned rest after delivering what was by all accounts a record-breaking five-day event in April. This, the 19th festival, attracted more international visitors than any other, and more than 575 events occurred in Speyside over the five days. For the first time whisky lovers were able to tour four distilleries which don’t normally open - Dalmunach, Tormore, Braeval and Allt a Bhainne distilleries. The tours, called ‘Off the Beaten Track’ were followed by a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired lunch prepared by cookery writer Ghillie Başan. James Campbell, chairman of Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival said, “We’ve been joined by people from more countries than ever, as well as local people, who have been able to enjoy our biggest ever programme of events, and amid glorious sunshine too.” After analysing this year’s festival, the organising team will be turning their focus to staging its offshoot, Spirit of Speyside: Distilled. The event brings together the region’s whisky, gin, beer and food producers under one roof. Spirit of Speyside: Distilled takes place in Elgin Town Hall on August 31 and September 1. Tickets, which will go on sale in June for different sessions over the weekend. 10
NEWS
WHISKY GALORE FOR THE OUTER HEBRIDES Residents of the Hebridean islands of South Uist, Eriskay and Benbecula will get a taste of “whisky galore” if plans to create to a new community owned distillery in Lochboisdale get the go ahead. The new distillery will be located in Lochboisdale, near the south of the island, close to the site where the SS Politician sank and the history and legends surrounding the story will play an important part in the distillery’s offering.
The £10 milliion distillery is expected to produce 300,000 litres of whisky each year and there are also plans for a visitor centre including an exhibition area, reception, distillery tours and tasting, and a shop. There will be additional benefits to the community too – the distillery will use locally grown barley which will provide additional income to local crofters and waste heat will also be used for the distillery and transferred to the local community.
A BAPTISM OF WHISKY There are now whisky festivals all over the country but in June The Whisky Lounge’s Edinburgh Whisky Festival will take place at the Assembly rooms. Founder Eddie Ludlow calls the event “...whisky heaven.” He might be right! More than 30 producers, makers and bottlers from across the world are setting up stall with distillers from as far afield as Taiwan and India offering you the chance to taste whisky across a range of flavour profiles. Whisky novices will also have the opportunity to take part in a ‘Whisky-Baptism’, a beginners tasting session and tour of the festival. Upon reaching the pearly gates, guests will be able to meet and take part in exclusive Q&A sessions with ‘gods’ and ‘goddesses’ of the industry, including Scotch expert, Charles Maclean; Distell Master Blender, Kirstie McCallum; and Director of prestigious whisky society Keepers of the Quaich, Annabel Meikle. Eddie Ludlow, Founder of The Whisky Lounge, said, “We are celebrating ten years of spreading the gospel of whisky and our sixth event in Edinburgh. Our mission is to shake-off any preconceptions people may have about our
national drink and present whisky in a fun, laidback way. So put Saturday 16th June in your diary. Tickets start at just £20. Attendees are invited to join one of two sessions throughout the day, either 12-4pm or 5-9pm.
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Guided Tours, Tastings, Gift Shop and Coffee Shop
Crafted with Expertise, Perfected by Speyside
Bruceland Road, Elgin IV30 1YE
tel: 01343 550900 www.glenmoray.com
LINDORES ABBEY DISTILLERY, NEWBURGH, FIFE lindoresabbeydistillery.com 01337 842547
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FEATURE
NORTH-EAST 250 – A ROAD WORTH TRAVELLING By Jocelyn O’Keefe
W Pictures overleaf: Scott Ashforth Above: Penny Devlin
e have covered the NE500 in past issues of the Wee DRAM but now there is a new tourist route... the new NorthEast 250! The new route highlights the best of Scottish scenery and culture but with half the distance to travel. If you fancy a ‘staycation’ which offers flexiblity and will take you to beautiful countryside, sandy beaches and plenty of places to sample whisky, look no further than The North-East 250. The new route takes you along the North-
East coast of Scotland and you can spend a little or a lot depending on your budget. The cost depends completely on how long you want to be on the road, whether you want to visit some of the famous distilleries on the route or splurge on some other amazing activities along the way. Accommodationwise, there are plenty of options along the route from luxury hotels, hostels, airbnb and camping. For example you could splash out and stay at Meldrum House Hotel in Oldmeldrum it’s got is own golf 13
course too - so perfect for golfers. There’s also the lovely Dowans Hotel in Aberlour – run by a lively family and which has a great whisky bar. If you would like a great view over the River Tay then Banchory Lodge has it nailed. If wild camping is more your thing you could rent a VW camper van – it’s all possible on the NE 250! There are castles to see – check out Congarff Castle, Braemar and Drum, or if you fancy a walk along a beautiful beach there are the sandy beaches of Balmedie, the rocky bays north of Collieston, the pink sands of Cruden Bay and the beautiful Forvie National Nature Reserve. All worthy of great instagram pics! The route is, as you might expect, a whisky lovers dream, running through Speyside, home to half of Scotland’s distilleries including Aberlour Distillery, Tomintoul and Glen Grant Distillery. Even if you wouldn’t consider yourself a whisky connoisseur, touring a distillery is a great way to learn a bit more about our most famous export. And they do say there is a whisky for everyone. Bear in mind though if you are doing a whisky tour at a distellery pick one or two distilleries to do – the tours are similar in nature, although the spirit is not! The tours cost from £5 up. The Whisky Castle shop at Tomintoul (pictured) also has a 14
great selection of fine whiskies from all the distilleries – so it is worth stopping off at and catching up with owners Scott and Sam Ashforth who are happy to share their knowledge. The route also has plenty to offer ‘outdoorsy people’ and ‘adrenaline junkies’. There’s surfing, quad biking, kayaking, sailing, cycling, off-road driving, Zip-lining and
more. If walking is your thing there’s The Glenlivet Hill Trek organisation which offers a variety of tours to suit anybody, whether you want to climb and reach the summit to watch the sunrise or get dropped off at the top and simply enjoy the views, there is something for all ages and fitness levels. Including the option of whisky tasting at the visitor centre if you feel you need
® Established 1836
FEATURE
the extra courage before the climb. The Glenshee Ski Centre, Cullen Sea School and New Wave Surf School are all along the route. There are also endless countryside walks, and routes to run or cycle along. The Cairngorms is also a must-see, it’s the largest national park in the UK. Try spotting red squirrels and golden eagles or take advantage of the water-sports, winter sports
or the twelve golf courses in the vicinity. There are always guided tours and activities running so be sure to have a look at the website - www.cairngorm.co.uk and see what’s on when you are passing. One day here may not be enough so be sure to check out accommodation nearby. The latest news is that there is to be a new distillery in the park. It will be
a sister distillery to Benromach. So whether you want to zip the route in a few days to enjoy the scenery or spend a few weeks exploring everything the north-east coast has to offer, this road trip is the perfect way to enjoy Scotland with beaches to rival any holiday destination, plenty of activities to enjoy and more whisky than you could possibly drink. n
‘We invite you to visit our truly independent distillery and discover our renowned Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky’
For opening times and tours, please visit our website
www.glenfarclas.com Visitorcentre@glenfarclas.com
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We’re open all year round (but we close our doors and take it easy over Christmas and Hogmanay)
Invererne Road, Forres, Moray IV36 3EB 01309 675 968
We are open Monday - Saturday Tours run every hour and cost ÂŁ12 which includes a 40 minute tour of the distillery and a dram at the end. Online & mobile booking available. First tour: 10:00 | Last tour: 16:00
The Borders Distillery | Commercial Road | Hawick | TD9 7AQ
01450374330 | info@thebordersdistillery.com | www.thebordersdistillery.com 16
INTERVIEW
Calum Leslie Calum Leslie is a young whisky entrepreneur who is passionate about his brand PeatReekers. But he is also passionate about giving back and building towards a better world. With that in mind he has made a commitment to The One Foundation to help bring clean drinking water to those who need it. This will see a donation made by PeatReekers for every dram of Double Standard sold. Find out how he started out and what he thinks of whisky and whisky marketing on the following pages.
You studied to be a lawyer so what was the journey that took you from law to whisky? Whether you love it or hate it, whisky is something that you can’t avoid hearing about if you live in Scotland. I wasn’t always a fan of whisky and I was keen to explore it. However, the big problem I had was that there is so much choice, I didn’t know where to start and the last thing I wanted to do was purchase a full bottle without knowing what I would like. I thought that this could be an issue faced by a lot of people in my position and after carrying out some customer development that validated this, I set out to change the way that whisky is discovered, delivered and appreciated. I launched a whisky subscription club called YoCo Club in December 2015 and took my passion for Scotch whisky and combined it with a want to innovate. From there, we built up an audience of early stage whisky fans who were keen to try a range of different whiskies. In August 2016, I met Robin Knox from IntelligentPOS at “Scotland Can Do Scale”. We got chatting and ended up meeting for coffee in October. He asked me what the plan was and I told him that the end goal was to launch my 17
own whisky. One conversation led to another and Robin decided to back my idea to launch a whisky based on the darker side of Scotch, and we called the brand PeatReekers. I’ve had an exciting ride in the start-up world so far and I learn something new every day. You never know what’s around the corner! Where did the idea for Peatreekers come from and how would you describe it? The idea came from a late-night session where I was writing up information on the whiskies that would feature in September’s subscription box. I came across the story of Scotland’s forgotten illicit distillers, known as peatreekers, and completely fell in love with their antics. From stolen whisky later retrieved by drilling holes in a ceiling to staged funeral, I started to write notes on the legends I was reading about. One thing led to another and I decided to launch a whisky inspired by the defiance, bravery, and cunning of the peatreekers. After months of work on branding and product development, we launched Double Standard, our first release, in November 2017. Double Standard is an Islay blended malt and takes its name from the corrupt excisemen who would turn a blind eye in return for a few bottles. The whisky is lightly peated with sweet and malty undertones that make for a smooth dram. It’s designed to attract people who may not be whisky fans to try whisky and goes just as well in a cocktail as on its own. Unlike many Islay drams, you can drink Double Standard throughout the evening without ruining your palate…so there’s no need to wait until the end of the night! Generally, what do you think of whisky marketing? Scotch whisky is arguably the best marketed product in the world. One product may contain better liquid than another, but at the end of the day aesthetics is the hurdle that needs to be crossed before someone makes a purchase. To date, it’s been about focusing on the romantic side i.e. the rolling hills, isolated distilleries, ancient craft and so on. This has worked incredibly well and has helped the industry scale to a point where the category is one of the major contributors to the UK’s balance sheet. There are incredibly talented people working in marketing and its obvious from the quality of marketing. Perfect for whisky’s core target market. However, Scotch had a darker side and yet, noone has told this story. So, we are marketing our whisky from this angle with a focus on our online 18
presence, where we can provide engaging content that appeals to our target market. We’ve kick started our journey with a product that looks like no other Scotch and we will continue to build our brand for many years to come. What is a typical day for you? Every day is different in start-up world. There are great days and not so great days, but NEVER a boring day. I spend a lot of my time speaking with consumers either in person at a pop-up event or over email, managing logistics to make sure deliveries get to where they need to be and executing our vision. I believe that it’s really important to never lose sight of what you set out to achieve, so I am constantly checking off tasks that build towards the company’s goals. The whisky industry is an incredibly exciting place and I feel extremely privileged to be able to build a company in this space. We’ve got a lot of ideas and we’re looking forward to experimenting with a few concepts, very soon. Where do you think younger drinkers are learning about whisky? There’s been a vast increase in the popularity of Bourbon and other American whiskey recently from younger drinkers. Whether it’s Jack & Coke, a Manhattan cocktail or Jim Beam on the rocks, younger drinkers are starting to take more of an
INTERVIEW
interest. A lot of this has been down to investment from whiskey producers into the bar scene, both in the UK and abroad, which has made this category popular. It also helps that American whiskey is naturally sweeter than Scotch. So, I think a lot of learning is taking place in the on trade. Scotch has some catching up to do with the younger market. William Grant & Sons are doing a great job encouraging younger drinkers to try Scotch with Monkey Shoulder and a lot of this has been down to challenging the perception of Scotch by mixing up exciting whisky cocktails. Brown spirits as a whole are on the rise and Scotch will have its day in the UK. Like anything, there’s a process and it will take time. Just look at what happened in the vodka market with flavoured vodkas first converting the younger market who were later converted by premium brands. What do you think are the barriers to drinking whisky? As above, when I first wanted to get into whisky I felt overwhelmed by choice, undereducated and a little out of my depth. Whisky, for some people, is a protected subject and it can be intimidating for new drinkers to get into whisky. Scotch is a brand in itself and there is a certain level of status applied when drinking as people want to be seen drinking Scotch. However, no one new to the category wants to purchase a full bottle without
first knowing what they like/ don’t like. Furthermore, Scotch has always, until recently, been recommended as a neat serve. There are barriers to drinking any neat spirit, whether it’s gin, vodka, tequila, rum and so on. Many people are not used to drinking alcohol at 40%+ abv. That’s changing now as people are starting to experiment with whisky serves. Whether it’s a case of encouraging people to add water, ice, serve with ginger ale or mix up in a cocktail, the way younger consumer experience Scotch needs to be taken into account. How do you prefer to drink Peetreakers? Totally depends on the occasion. I drink Double Standard, our first release, neat most of the time, but this is normally due to the fact that I host a lot of tastings and meet with many bartenders who want to taste the raw spirit. If it’s sunny out (a rare day in Scotland) and I want an easy, relaxed drink then I’ll mix with Ginger Ale and a dash of lime. During the winter, I’ll sit next to the fire with an old fashioned made with Ms Betters Lime Leaf Bitters (yep, I have a thing for lime). Or, last weekend we ran the bar at World Whisky Day and made up some fantastic takes on a Strawberry Daiquiri and Espresso Martini. The Strawberry Daiquiri worked extremely well when engaging with new whisky drinkers as it took the intimidation factors out of a. drinking whisky and 19
INTERVIEW
b. drinking peated whisky. At the end of the day, if you buy a bottle or serve in a bar, then drink it any way you like…as after all, it’s your whisky. Name three bars in Scotland that you would take a visitor to and why? Devil’s Advocate (Edinburgh) – they have a fantastic selection of whiskies and I’m a big fan of the location. Panda & Sons (Edinburgh) – they have an incredible list of cocktails and the staff are awesome. Also, their speakeasy style is super cool. Kelvingrove Café (Glasgow) – Finneston is without a doubt home to Glasgow’s best bars and it’s hard to choose just one (The Ben Nevis is also a great pick). But, the décor, ambience and clientele at Kelvingrove Café is unbeatable. Why did you get involved with the One Foundation? I believe that every business operating in today’s society has an obligation to give back and help build towards a better world. Therefore, it was important to contribute towards a good cause, right from the start. I chose to work with The One Foundation after finding out that there are over a billion people in the world who do not have access to clean drinking water and immediately wanted to help the foundation on their mission to change this. Whisky is known as the Water of Life and I hope that we can help provide water for life. I am incredibly excited to work with The One 20
Foundation and hope that the growth of PeatReekers will significantly contribute to the amount of capital they can raise and ultimately result in providing more people with access to clean drinking water. Five years from now what would be the best case scenario for Peatreekers? In the world of whisky, anything is possible. I’d like to think that we will still be innovating with the goal of converting more people to drink Scotch. We are planning to release at least one new exciting product each year. There’s so much scope and the world is a big place. We’ve got our own ideas on how we can contribute to the marketplace and would like to become a key brand in delivering something exciting to the new whisky drinker. Time will tell and it’s certainly going to be an incredible journey. If people want to buy the brand where can they get it? You can get Double Standard direct from us at www.peatreekers.com or through a number of retailers including Master of Malt, 31Dover, The Whisky Exchange and soon to be Harvey Nichols. You can also buy by the dram/ in any serve you like at any of over 50 on trade venues. If you do decide to try Double Standard then it would be great to hear your thoughts. Feel free to get in touch! n
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Whisky Galore...Dist Tourists are making their way by the the droves to our beautiful distilleries and visitor centres - but the great news for us is that we don’t have to get on a flight to sample the best whisky in the land. Here’s a guide to the 10 of the best distilleries in the country. If you go send a a pic and we will put it in the next magazine!
Glenfarclas Glenfarclas Distillery Ballindalloch Moray AB37 9BD Glenfarclas is one of the last remaining family-owned and run distilleries. Purchased by John Grant in 1865, the distillery is now in the hands of the 5th and 6th generation of the family. The Grants remain committed to the vision of creating the best quality Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Glenfarclas is renowned for producing Single Malt Whisky in the traditional Speyside style, with a heavy sherry influence. Glenfarclas was one of the first distilleries in Scotland to open a dedicated Visitor Centre in 1973. Their friendly and personal tours have gained a reputation as some of the best in the industry.
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ery Balblair Distill Balblair Distillery Edderton, Tain IV19 1LB Tours from: £10pp Balblair Distillery is one of the oldest and most picturesque distilleries in Scotland. Founded in 1790 by John Ross, it sits on the banks of the beautiful Dornoch Firth, in the shadow of Struie Hill. The distillery visitor tour is intimate and personal – an insight into its pursuit of producing the finest quality Whisky, using methods that have changed very little over the years. The visitor centre is open weekdays from 10am to 4pm. They offer two levels of tours at 11am and 2pm Mon-Fri. However to avoid disappointment please be sure to book in advance at www.balblair.com/distillery/ bookatour
illeries Galore Glen Moray Glen Moray Bruceland Road Elgin IV30 1YE June to August: Daily 9:30am – 5pm Tours from: £6pp Time: 30 mins A warm welcome awaits you at Glen Moray Distillery in Elgin. Glen Moray has been distilled on the banks of the River Lossie since 1897. In over a century of distilling at Glen Moray, much has changed. However, the ingredients, processes and the skills of those responsible for producing this finest quality single malt whisky remain constant. A small, friendly and informal distillery, Glen Moray is situated in the city of Elgin, the historic capital of Speyside. The area around Elgin is known as the Laich of Moray and has a mild climate. Indeed, an old Moray saying proclaims that the Laich of Moray has forty days more summer than any other part of Scotland – making Glen Moray one of the sunniest distilleries in Speyside. Built originally as a brewery in the classic, square layout of a Scottish Farm, Glen Moray has a courtyard, surrounded by traditional, low-roofed warehouses. Glen Moray is a partner member of the world Famous Malt Whisky Trail and welcomes visitors from January to December. Explore the distillery and whisky making processes with a guided tour or experience the range of whiskies with a tasting flight from the Visitor Centre bar.
FEATURE
Benromach Benromach Distillery Company Ltd., Invererne Road, Forres, Moray IV36 3EB June to August: Daily 9:30am – 5pm Tours from: £6pp Time: 30 mins Established in 1898, the Benromach distillery is independently owned by a family with proud, enduring roots in Speyside. Admired the world over for its whisky expertise, today they pour their passion and knowledge into making its gorgeous single malt. A lost taste of Speyside they wanted to bring back and share. Go and see their distillers at work as they orchestrate every second of the production by sight, sound and touch. One of their friendly tour guides will proudly show you around the boby mill, mash tun, wooden washbacks, copper stills, spirit safe, and its warehouses. And, of course, in the visitor centre you can enjoy a tutored tasting of their gorgeous classic Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
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ey Lindores Abb Pulteney Pulteney Distillery Huddart Street Wick Caithness KW1 5BA Open all year Founded in 1826 by James Henderson at the height of Wick’s celebrated herring boom, the Pulteney Distillery is one of the most northerly Scotch whisky distilleries on the British mainland. There is no better way of understanding the essence of Old Pulteney Single Malt than by experiencing its unique location for yourself. Each of the distillery tours will bring to life not only the distinctive process by which they make Old Pulteney but, the absorbing story behind this exceptional single malt Scotch whisky. for more information visit www.oldpulteney.com Tell: 01955 602371
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Lindores Abbey Abbey Road Newburgh Fife KT14 6HH Tours seven days a week. Lindores Abbey’s widely recognised links to the earliest written reference to Scotch Whisky mean people have been traveling to this quiet corner of Fife for Centuries. After a 500 year break, whisky pilgrims will finally be able to see Single Malt distillation happening once again on this historic site. Lindores offers fantastic experiences including our Apothecary experience which gives you the chance to get “hands on” making your own delicious version of Aqua Vitae. It operates a standard tour three times a day (10.30/12.00/14.00) seven days a week to allow guests the chance to get behind the scenes. For more information visit www.lindoresabbeydistillery.com Email: Info@lindoresabbeydistillery.com Tel: 01337 842547
FEATURE
Springbank Springbank 85 Longrow Campbeltown Argyll PA28 6ET It might be Scotland’s most traditional
whisky-making location, but Campbeltown’s Springbank Distillery has taken a step into the future with the opening of a new on-site shop and visitor centre. Springbank’s visitors, and those who want to see its sister distillery Mitchell’s Glengyle, can now enjoy their visit in the comfort and atmosphere provided by the new facilities. Springbank is a unique distillery in a unique part of Scotland. The Kintyre peninsula, known as “Scotland’s mainland island”, might be connected to the rest of the country by a one-mile strip of land, but the area has a distinctly island feel. Campbeltown is the largest town on the peninsula and is famous around the world for its Scotch whisky production. Springbank drinkers appreciate the robust, salty, coastal style which is a by-product of the natural Campbeltown environment. Springbank remains in the ownership of its founding family and continues to practice traditional production techniques. It is the only remaining distillery in the country to carry out 100% of the production process on site and visitors often remark that time spent touring the distillery is like taking a step back in time to the Victorian era. Alongside its flagship Springbank Single Malt, the distillery also produces two other varieties - the heavily-peated, smokey Longrow and the lighter, more floral, tripledistilled Hazelburn. The distillery runs tours and tastings from Monday to Saturday each week. Booking in advance is not essential but is advisable; contact tours@springbank.scot or call 01586 555 468 to book.
se Famous Grou Experience Famous Grouse Experience Glenturret Distillery The Hosh Crieff PH7 4HA The Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery offers a unique experience; to see how single malt whisky is made at the oldest working distillery in Scotland, and to learn about the mastery behind the blending of Scotland’s favourite whisky, The Famous Grouse. Situated in the picturesque heart of Perthshire we have cultivated a selection of 11 specially crafted tours where you can taste and learn about Scotland’s national drink! An excellent restaurant and café, and a selection of unique gifts in our welcoming shop round off the experience ensuring a great day out. Open 7 days a week, our friendly and knowledgeable team look forward to sharing a traditional Scottish dram with you.
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NEWS
Ben Nevis Warehouse No 7 Ben Nevis Distillery Lochy Bridge Fort William PH33 6TJ Open All Year Monday to Friday 9am 5pm, Extended Summer Hours to 6pm plus Sat 10am - 4pm and Sun 12-4pm. Ben Nevis Distillery is nestled at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, which has a summit elevation of 4’406 feet above sea level. This imposing mountain provides an impressive background to a traditional Scottish craft as well as the water used to produce the whisky. In 1991, the distillery opened the Visitor Centre and Cafe. Currently, it employs 30 staff to cover all aspects of the business to produce spirit on a continuous 24/7 operation. It has customers all over the world and its aim is to have Ben Nevis Single Malt Scotch Whisky become further renowned for its quality and taste whilst produced using traditional methods. The Visitor Centre has been rebranded as Warehouse No. 7 at Ben Nevis Distillery. Visitor centre - 01397 700200. It is only open weekends during the summer. Email tours@bennevisdistillery.com. Admission is £5 and it also offers a Tasting Tour at £18 and an Executive Tour at £30.
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istillery D s r e d r o B e h T Borders Distillery Commercial Road Hawick TD9 7AQ Open Monday to Saturday The Borders Distillery is the first Scotch Whisky Distillery to operate legally in the Borders since 1837. Located in the middle of Hawick, it is housed in fully restored Victorian industrial buildings. Great care was taken to preserve the built heritage of the site – which was originally home to the Hawick Urban Electric Company – and many original features were retained. It is open from Monday to Saturday and tours run every hour on the hour from 10:00 to 16:00, cost £12, and feature a guided tour of the buildings, the distillery and a dram to finish.
Pulteney Distillery, Huddart St, Wick, Caithness KW1 5BA.
www.oldpulteney.com
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GIFTS
Whisky Lover Accessory & Tasting Kit £34.99 Gettingpersonal.co.uk This wee kit includes whisky tumblers, coasters, whisky stones and more! Help someone discover the true flavour of whisky, with this tasting kit! Filled with everything you need to become a true whisky connoisseur. Contents: 2 x whisky glasses 6 x whisky stones in a cloth bag 1 x tasting notebook 1 x tasting bookmark 1 x pencil 2 x cork coasters.
Stoned Marble Whisky Rocks - Black £18.00 www.amara.com/shop A talking point when you serve up these ice cold rocks – you keep them in the freezer and they can be used over and over again.
Hotel Chocolat Whisky Collection £10 www.hotelchocolat.com/uk For the chocolate lover in your life... 28
GIFTS
Charlie’s Whisky Clock www.turnclock.dk We came across Turnclock’s ‘Charlie’s Whisky Clock’ online. The clock is designed to guide a whisky drinker throughout the entire tasting experience, beginning with describing the color, nose-feel and mouth-feel of whisky. A dial on the clock makes it possible for drinkers to pinpoint hundreds of different experiences, including medicinal, peaty and nutty. As the tasting notes are set upon a clock, the final stage of the tasting process includes describing the development of the whisky flavors over time. As well as featuring tasting notes from Charles MacLean himself, Charlie’s Whisky Clock also features a signature from the whisky expert.
Bowmore 15 - £50.00 Does Dad like a decorated whisky? Look no further than Bowmore 15, which was voted Whisky of the Year 2018 by The Whisky Exchange. Matured in an incredible combination of both bourbon and sherry casks, it spends its final three years in Oloroso sherry casks, which give Bowmore 15 the rich, deep colour and warming finish. Notes of toffee, treacle and chocolate make this delicious liquid a great gift someone looking to taste the best of the legendary Islay distillery’s millennial output Available to buy from The Whisky Exchange
Personalised On The Rocks Glass Set £34.99 Gettingpersonal.co.uk For a loved one who likes their choice of poison on the rocks, this personalised glass set will be a welcome gift! With a glass tumbler, the set includes two steel balls which contain a special gel that freezes, so they can ensure their drink stays cool without being diluted by melting ice cubes and avoid frequent trips to the ice machine! The set is complete with a storage bag and a pair of steel tongs to add and remove the balls from the glass for that extra touch of class! You can personalise the glass with a message, such as ‘Oliver’s Whisky’ to be engraved in a block font between two lines with swirled detailing for a great birthday, anniversary or Father’s Day gift! 29
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PEOPLE
JURA REVEALS ALL There was a nearly a take-over of the Kelvingrove Cafe in Glasgow last month when Jura Single Malt Whisky unveiled its new signature series and a bold new direction. The event at the Kelvingrove Cafe was absolutely packed and guests saw, for the first time, its new signature series - Journey, Jura 10, Jura 12, Seven Wood and Jura 18. As you can see the new range went down a storm. The cocktails went down a treat too!
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Award Winning Small Group Tours
Combine the scenery, history, and culture of Scotland with the nations’ best distilleries on a Rabbie’s whisky tour
Explore our guided one day to 17 day tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness at
www.rabbies.com/whisky
get your NE250 passport stamped at the whisky castle
world famous for over 100 years with over 600 malts
The Whisky Castle has been selling the finest malt whiskies of Scotland from its location in Tomintoul for over 100 years. We are the highest whisky shop in the UK at the gateway to Scotland’s Malt Whisky Trail. We also have an 18 seat café and Scottish gift shop. Why not cool down this summer and choose from over 15 yummy ice cream flavours from Stew ‘n’ Drew and Orkney Ice Cream! • Experts in non-chill filtered sherry, bourbon, port, rum and wine cask malt whiskies • Independent specialist advice • Tutored tasting sessions • Individually selected casks bottled exclusively for us • A unique selection of Scottish gifts, clothing, jewellery and foods • A great array of Scottish gins and craft beer • Welcoming café with hot food served all day and free Wifi
A great experience for the whole family 6 main st, tomintoul, moray ab37 9ex
tel 01807 580213 whiskycastle.com
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WHISKY What’s On... WORLD... 16th June Edinburgh Whisky Festival The Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh. Edinburgh’s one day celebration of all things whisky will be back this year. Your ticket includes free sampling of all exhibiting whiskies and a free tasting glass. There will also be lectures from experts, masterclasses and entertainment. Tel: 0131 220 4348 20th June, 19th July and 29th August The Scotch Whisky Training School The Scotch Whisky Experience, Edinburgh. Three of the upcoming dates for the popular whisky training school where you will spend a day learning all about Scotch Whisky and gain a certificate of expertise. Tel: 0131 220 0441 29th June Glendronach Whisky Tasting Evening A. D. Rattray’s Whisky Experience, Kirkoswald An evening hosted by Matt Chambers from Glendronach Distillery sampling favourites from their portfolio. Perfect for those who favour sherry matured whiskies! Tel: 01655 760308 1st July An Introduction to Whisky Tasting Whiski Rooms, Edinburgh An event dedicated to educating whisky novices and conoisseurs alike by explaining production, maturation and the bottling process and offering the chance to sample Scotch Whiskies. Tel: 0131 225 7224 27th July Tomatin Whisky Tasting evening A. D. Rattray’s Whisky Experience, Kirkoswald A tasting hosted by Alistair Mutch from Tomatin Distillery. An evening dedicated to sampling whiskies from the Tomatin distillery. Tel: 01655 760308
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4th August Whisky and Cheese Tasting Whiski Rooms, Edinburgh An evening set to prove that whisky pairings can be just as successful as wine pairings. It will be a hosted tasting giving details on the production and maturation of the whiskies and sampling four single malt whiskies and four cheeses from a local cheesemonger. Tel: 0131 225 7224 15th August Whisky and Chocolate Tasting Whiski Rooms, Edinburgh An evening spent sampling four different whiskies paired with four very different chocolates created by a local chocolatier. Tel: 0131 225 7224
The Lismore: A world famous whisky bar in Glasgow, Scotland. with over 300 malt whiskies on display and live traditional music sessions through out the week.
THE LISMORE lios mor
The Lismore Bar 206 Dumbarton Road Glasgow
A family business in its third generation - established 1965
* not valid on discounted items - expires JANUARY 31ST. 2017
Whisky retailers since 1974