The Famous Grouse has launched a taste challenge to introduce consumers to the ‘Famous Family' and encourage them to choose their own favourite Grouse expression. The challenge includes the darker character, The Black Grouse alongside The Snow Grouse, a lighter and sweeter new grain whisky.

For the third consecutive time, Orcadian Highland Park single malt has been awarded top marks by leading US independent whisky expert Paul Pacult in his coveted list of best spirits in the Spirits Journal 2010.

 

Rare bottle of Macallan sold at auction

A bottle of 50 year old Macallan fetched £12,350 at a rare whiskies auction held at McTear's Auctioneers in Glasgow recently.

To mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of René Lalique, the founder of one of the world’s foremost crystal artisans, we have combined the creativity and craftsmanship of The Macallan and Lalique to produce the world’s most valuable decanter of whisky. A decanter made by Lalique using the ‘lost wax’ procedure to create a truly unique, one-off piece of art.

Highland Park unveils global travel retail range

Highland Park has launched a new Vintage Editions range exclusive to global travel retail, consisting of four single malt whiskies distilled in 1998, 1994, 1990 and 1973.

According to Max McFarlane, whisky maker: "The starting point for this range was to look into our maturing stocks to find sherry seasoned casks which would showcase different dimensions of the classic Highland Park profile of honey sweetness and aromatic peat. I am delighted to have identified specific vintage years with exceptional casks." 

The differences between the expressions lie in the extent to which first-fill or re-fill European and American sherry oak casks have been used. The 1998 and the 1990 Vintages emphasise the smokier notes whilst the 1994 and the 1973 highlight the sweeter characteristics.

Jason Craig, global controller, Highland Park, adds: "Global travel retail has been nothing short of phenomenal for us with 88 per cent growth over the last five years.  I am confident this stunning new range will allow us to maintain our dynamic performance in this channel and maintain our position as the world's most respected single malt."

The stunning packaging complements the liquid and draws on Orkney's Norse heritage; the design on the front of the oak box takes the form of the complex woodcarvings in the characteristic ‘gripping beast' style seen on the Oseberg ship, the oldest and most beautiful vessel of the Viking age. The outstanding craftsmanship has provided inspiration for the design of the packaging of this exceptional whisky for today's intrepid travellers.

The range will be available from April/May 2010.

I look forward to see you all at this years whisky fest in Växjö